Time: 15 minutes
Goal: Establish the setting, introduce key NPCs, and plant the seeds of intrigue.
Setting the Scene
The ballroom of Castle Waterdeep shimmers with silver and sapphire decorations, resembling a frozen winter wonderland. Chandeliers hang like icicles, reflecting light in dazzling patterns across the marble floors. Masked guests glide through the space, laughter bubbling and conversations buzzing like the hum of a hive. Outside, snow flurries drift past tall arched windows, framing the warm glow within.
DM Tips:
- Encourage players to describe their characters’ masks and outfits, adding to the masquerade theme.
- Use snippets of NPC dialogue to create layers of intrigue and tension.
- Drop early hints about unusual behaviour or suspicious figures in the crowd.
Arrival and Reception
Guests are greeted by uniformed attendants who check invitations and announce arrivals. Players may be stopped briefly for inspection, allowing for early roleplay opportunities.
Opening Lines:
- “The Lady awaits within. May your mask guard your secrets and your steps dance lightly tonight.” - Attendant.
- “You wear it well—though in Waterdeep, even masks cannot hide everything.” - Fellow Guest.
Key NPCs and Introductions
Lady Laeral Silverhand - Hostess, Open Lord of Waterdeep. Regal and composed.
“Welcome, friends, to this celebration of unity and renewal. Tonight, let the dark of winter remind us of the light we must protect.”
- Greets guests personally, projecting calm authority.
- Observes the room closely, subtly marking potential threats.
- May pull players aside to subtly ask for their vigilance.
Doran Cassalanter - Suave, influential noble suspected of shady dealings.
“Masks within masks—how appropriate for Waterdeep, is it not? I trust you know the weight of what we carry tonight.”
- Flirts with danger, offering cryptic remarks about secrets and debts.
- May test players’ loyalties by hinting at hidden knowledge.
High Harper Althaea Moonshadow - Watchful and wary, here to protect against unseen threats.
“The shadows deepen tonight. Do not let the music distract you from the whispers.”
- Steers players toward investigating anomalies in the crowd.
- Acts as a subtle ally, but expects competence and discretion.
Masked Stranger (Cultist) - Enigmatic and cryptic, their identity obscured.
“A dance in shadows is still a dance, is it not? But some steps lead only to ruin.”
- Speaks in riddles, drawing suspicion without immediate proof.
- May disappear suddenly, leaving traces of dragon-themed jewellery.
Conversations and Hooks
Snippets of Dialogue:
- “The Lords’ Alliance seems uneasy tonight. Have you noticed the extra guards?” - Nervous Merchant.
- “Rumour has it someone plans to make a move tonight—but who dares strike at Lady Silverhand?” - Whispering Noble.
- “I saw the Cassalanters bringing in crates this afternoon. For the kitchens, they said. But I have my doubts.” - Suspicious Harper.
Clues to Drop:
- Guests discussing coded messages received earlier in the week.
- A servant visibly nervous as they refill goblets.
- Nobles gossiping about disappearances in the Dock Ward.
Skill Challenges and Checks
- Insight (DC 14): Detect unease or deception in NPC responses.
- Perception (DC 13): Notice hidden weapons, symbols, or unusual behaviour.
- Investigation (DC 15): Examine invitations, seals, or decorations for clues.
- Persuasion (DC 12): Gather rumours from friendly guests.
- Stealth (DC 16): Slip away to shadow suspicious individuals.
Escalation Hints
- A servant drops a goblet and flees the room, drawing brief attention.
- The masked stranger leaves a folded note on a balcony table.
- Guards nervously scan the crowd, subtly tightening security.
- A musician abruptly stops playing, staring at a noble who exits hastily.
Player Guidance and Rewards
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Player Actions:
- Encourage characters to roleplay introductions and take note of NPCs’ moods.
- Players can form alliances or press NPCs for details about the night’s security.
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Early Discoveries:
- Players who investigate early may intercept cultist plans or prevent traps from being set.
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NPC Favors:
- Winning favor with Lady Silverhand or the Harpers may lead to future alliances.
- Nobles may provide access to restricted areas or private conversations.
Closing Moment:
As the last guest steps inside and the doors close, the music swells. The masquerade begins—and the shadows lengthen.