Time: 15 minutes
Goal: Facilitate social interactions, provide generic conversations, and maintain the flow of the evening without revealing deeper plot details.
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.
Key Details to Highlight:
- Guests wear elaborate masks—animal motifs, celestial designs, and gemstones are common.
- Servants move gracefully with trays of champagne and hors d’oeuvres.
- The musicians play light waltzes, providing an elegant backdrop.
- Nobles linger near balconies and fireplaces, forming small clusters of chatter.
Key NPCs and Conversations
Lady Laeral Silverhand - Hostess and Open Lord of Waterdeep. Poised and welcoming.
“Welcome, friends. Winter’s Crest reminds us of unity in the coldest of times. May this evening bring warmth to us all.”
Topics:
- Greets guests warmly and discusses the importance of unity.
- Mentions Waterdeep’s prosperity but notes concerns about unrest in distant regions.
- Offers compliments on attire and inquiries about recent business ventures.
Doran Cassalanter - Suave noble with hints of arrogance.
“Masks suit this city. Sometimes it’s easier to trust the mask than the face behind it.”
Topics:
- Flirts with intrigue, commenting on secrets and debts among nobles.
- Talks about business ventures, shipping routes, and recent successes.
- Praises the players’ fashion choices and asks probing questions about their backgrounds.
High Harper Althaea Moonshadow - Observant and mysterious.
“The music is enchanting, but the rhythm hides deeper beats. One only has to listen closely.”
Topics:
- Remarks on the artistry of the musicians and the night’s beauty.
- Suggests keeping an eye on unfamiliar faces and discusses trade rumors.
- Lightly touches on the city’s defences and the importance of vigilance.
Mysterious Figure (Unnamed NPC) - Enigmatic presence, avoiding direct interactions but always observing.
“A masquerade is not unlike life, don’t you think? A dance where the steps are known, but the partners change.”
Topics:
- Speaks cryptically about power shifts and hidden truths.
- Refuses to give a name but suggests connections to powerful interests.
- May leave conversations abruptly, leaving players curious.
Random NPCs for Conversations
1. Nervous Merchant
“I’m just relieved to be invited this year. After that mess with the guild charters, I thought I’d never recover.”
- Complains about tariffs and rising costs.
- Wonders aloud about increased security in the hall.
2. Gossiping Noble
“Did you hear about the Lord’s Alliance? Tensions are rising, but no one wants to admit it—not in public, at least.”
- Discusses recent scandals and rivalries among factions.
- Expresses excitement about trade expansions and fears of sabotage.
3. Overconfident Duelist
“A dance is like a duel, don’t you think? One misstep, and you’re done.”
- Boasts about past victories and challenges players to discuss combat techniques.
- Complains about being excluded from the main tables.
4. Quiet Scholar
“I couldn’t help but notice the tapestries—each one tells a different story. Have you seen the one near the stairs? Fascinating work.”
- Talks about history and symbolism in the decorations.
- Suggests the art may hold hidden meanings or warnings.
5. Anxious Servant
“Oh! Excuse me, I didn’t mean to—oh dear, I hope the Lady didn’t notice that.”
- Fumbles with serving trays and mutters apologies.
- Appears preoccupied and avoids direct eye contact.
Escalation Points
- The Mysterious Figure Moves: At intervals, the figure shifts positions, observing different groups.
- A Dropped Item: A folded note or a small pendant is found—no immediate explanation.
- Disturbance: A guest stumbles, causing a commotion near the musicians.
- Suspicious Servant: A servant rushes toward the kitchens or exits abruptly.
Player Guidance
- Players should be encouraged to explore and engage in conversations.
- Allow clues to surface naturally through NPC interactions without forcing conclusions.
- Keep the pace steady, emphasizing elegance and unease without overt danger.
Closing Moment:
As the music swells and the dance begins, the air feels heavier. Eyes linger longer than they should, and whispers fade whenever someone draws near. The evening has begun, but shadows already creep along the edges of the light.