The journey began with high spirits and grand expectations. With their instruments packed alongside rations and supplies, The Mercenaries set out from Neverwinter, ready to embrace their new role as hired escorts for Gundren Rockseeker. The roads, however, were far from safe.
Trouble on the Road
A few days into their travels, the band encountered a patrol of city watch. Their armour bore the insignia of Neverwinter, but their demeanour was far from honourable. Claiming to enforce tolls for road upkeep, the guards demanded an unreasonable sum for passage.
Weeka quickly saw through the deception, noting mismatched pieces of armour and suspicious glances between the guards. Confrontation loomed as Nyx subtly checked the weight of her dagger and Riteus gripped his drumsticks like clubs. Kon feigned a tune on his panpipes to mask Snezze’s silent movements as the goblin prepared for a distraction.
When words failed, steel sang.
The guards underestimated the band. Riteus barrelled through their ranks, scattering the grifters. Nyx slipped behind them, cutting belts and straps, while Snezze’s interpretative dance proved surprisingly disorienting. The fight ended quickly, leaving the corrupt watchmen bound and bruised. The band ensured they would not be returning to Neverwinter anytime soon.
Quiet Roads and Uneasy Calm
With the false guards behind them, the journey pressed on. The band grew wary, keeping a sharper eye on the treelines and shadows. Kon occasionally tested strange devices he had tinkered with along the way, hoping to craft something useful should danger strike again.
Their caution proved wise. As Phandalin drew closer, an ambush awaited.
Ambushed by Kobolds
Near a narrow trail flanked by rocky outcrops, the party was suddenly set upon by Kobolds. Their ambush was swift, with small blades and slings raining down. Snezze, caught mid-step, bore the brunt of the attack. The goblin was nearly killed before the others rallied.
Riteus roared, driving the attackers back with sheer force, while Weeka unleashed eldritch blasts that seared the air. Nyx weaved between foes, and Kon’s mechanical devices whirred and spat sparks of magic, creating chaos in the ranks of the attackers.
By the time the dust settled, the ambush had been broken, but the cost was clear. Snezze lay wounded, breathing shallowly as the party regrouped, tending to injuries and bracing themselves for what awaited in Phandalin.
Notes
- Setting: The road from Neverwinter to Phandalin introduces the party to deception, danger, and the need for teamwork.
- Themes: Corruption and survival mark the early tone of the journey.
- Foreshadowing: Snezze’s near-death experience hints at greater dangers ahead, testing the group’s resolve and unity.