The Adventure

Kaled Del was a place of great potential wealth when Dwarves of Clan Stoneshield founded it 700 years ago. Through blood, sweat, and tears, Kaled Del has grown into a rich and powerful Dwarfhold, famous for the quality of their mithril.

In the last 100 years, mithril deposits began drying up and the citizens of Kaled Del faced the possibility of abandoning their hearths. What made matters worse was that rich mineral deposits lay deeper beneath the city, but according to ancient custom their ancestors made a divine pact to never delve beyond a certain depth. Known as the Oathreach, legend has it that digging past this line will pierce the wardens that hold great evils trapped in the earth and will lead to the downfall of all Dwarvenkind.

As a consequence, the stout folk of Kaled Del delved far from the saftey of their borders. Rather than breach the Oathreach, they expanded into the bloody lands of the Goblin King and have been in a state of war with Goblinkind ever since. The recent wars have cost the kingdom dearly, both in warriors and in leadership. The long-ruling king, Aduin Stoneshield, died battle, leaving his unprepared twin sons, Durond and Bofbur to share the burden of the crown.

After a century, Kaled Del grew weary of war and fearful of economic collapse. Without strong leadership, support for breaching the Oathreach surged. Those who would pierce the Oathreach are called Breachers and have swayed Bofbur to their side. Those who would not are call Preachers and have made Durond their ally. Now, every clan, guild, and household is split in half. Civil society is crumbling as communication breaks down between the two camps, and nothing can be done as the entire government is deadlocked.

In this time of great turmoil, a solution was found. 150 years ago, Kaled Del helped an observance of human sages build a monastery at the top of their mountain called "Farsky." These monks claimed to know the secret of reading the heavens to predict the future, and the Dwarves helped them forge a magnificent brass telescope for that purpose. Twenty years after the completion of the observatory, King Aduin called upon the sages to tell him if his wife would be forever faithful to him. The sages consulted their instruments and replied that she was already in love with another. Heartbroken, Aduin rooted out the affair and had the two lovers exiled (a death sentence in the underdark). He could never bring himself to return to the observatory again, and had the tunnels to Farsky sealed.

But now, with tensions so high and Aduin a few years in his grave, the Breachers and Preachers have agreed to consult the sages of Farsky on the saftey of breaching the Oathreach. Each side swore to abide by the result, and the city chose four Dwarves for this task, each gifted with valuable skills, exceptional bravery, or unquestionable honor. In addition, a representative from the Breachers and the Preachers were assigned as observers to vouch for the validity of the mission's outcome.

The adventure begins Monday, January 9th!

The Great Hall was packed to bursting. Every Dwarfling and their Nan, and Soldiers and Seamstresses alike crowded in. It was the first time the city had gathered together in common purpose in a long time. While this very fact gave the Dwarves hope in their hearts, the stone faces of their ancestors, carved into the every pillar in the hall, glowered down at them in dismay.

The Gathering Council presided over the event, looking down from their terraced dias at the four chosen Dwarves at the base: the mighty Aldrik Ironfist, the deadly Thorin Copperhearth, the wise Torden Stormhammer, and the cunning Finn Stonelost.

The great roar of the drums brought the crowd to silence.

"Hope." called out the Grand Seneschal. "Hope is why we have gathered today. These four brave Dwarves have been chosen to seek out prophecy from Farsky to guide our troubled future. They carry with them the hope of all the stout folk of Kaled Del, for all have agreed to abide by the prophecy."

The Seneschal paused. Despite the roaring hearthfires, a chill ran up her spine. "May the gift bearers step forward."

Four Dwarves step forth, gifts in hand.

The grisled Master of Arms was the first to speak. "Aldrik Ironfist," he said, and the name rang out in the hushed hall. He paused to let the broad-shouldered Dwarf step forward. "Yer bravery and selflessness are already legendary in Kaled Del. And since half of us have a dent in our heads from yer tankard, I can't think of a tougher son of a bitch neither."

The hall roared with laughter, and everyone conceded that it was good to hear genuine mirth ring out once more in the halls of Kaled Del. He hoisted his great axe and pulled from it a plain stone that was set in the pommel. He strung it around simple hempen cord and clasped it into Aldrik's fists. "When yer fists don't work, try this. May it guide you through difficult decisions on the road ahead, lad."

Aldrik receives a Stone of Luck

"Thorin Copperhearth." The young noble Bruenor strode forth, a brilliant suit of armor in his hands. His face was set with a loving smile, but he could not hide the concern in his eyes. "Every Dwarf in Kaled Del would have you by his side in battle. Your loyalty and honor are unmatched." He stepped forward and laid the armor in Thorin's hands. "This once protected my heart. Now it protects both of our hearts, for if something were to happen to you, my heart would die as surely as if a blade pierced it."

Thorin receives a suit of Mithril Plate

"Torden Stormhammer" called the singsong voice of the Blessed Mother, high priestess of the temple of Moradin All-Father. "Long have you walked the surface, but never has your heart strayed far from our hearth. Your dedication to the Watchful Eye was misunderstood by many, including myself. Now, in our greatest hour, we find ourself looking up instead of down and turning to you for guidance." The Blessed Mother smiled. "We send you forth with one of Aduin's own warhammers, Stormbreaker."

Torden receives a +1 Maul that can cast Thunderous Smite once per long rest.

"Finn Stonelost" called the curmudgeonly old voice of the Archchancellor, head of Kaled Del's university of magic. "I regret to say we could not decide upon a member of our own ranks to accompany this mission. You, however, have the unique ... ehm, advantage of being disliked equally by our entire staff, and for some unfathomable reason beloved by our students."

"But while it pains me to say it, there is merit in your ... ehm, selection. An outsider often sees more clearly than an insider and your ... ehm, abilities ... are potent, even if they do stem from ... ehm, atheistic sources. Here is a chance for you to use them for good." He casually slaps a rod into Finn's hands. "We found this in the vaults to enhance your obscure ... ehm, powers; return it promptly upon on your return."

Finn receives a +1 Rod of the Pact Keeper

The Grand Seneschal took the stage once again with two figures at her side.

"Accompanying the four chosen Seekers will be two Watchers, one from each camp of our ... debate. These observers are bound to the quest, bade to report back to their members to prove that the prophecy was truthfully obtained. They are likewise bound to not interfere with the rightful course of the quest, no matter the answer that the sages of Farsky give."

She gestured to the bald Dwarf to her right that was wide even by Dwarf standards. "Representing the Breachers, Guildleader Prust: do you swear to uphold this sacred duty?"

"Aye, I will. For the good of our future." Prust said curtly.

She gestured to the fiery-haired Dwarf on her left whose face was stern as the stone around them. "Representing the Preachers, Stonemother Dwalia: do you swear to uphold this sacred duty?"

"Aye, I will. By Moradin's command." Dwalia said proudly.

"Then let us delay no longer. The hopes of all of Kaled Del travel with you, seekers! May your journey be swift and fruitful."

And with that the hall erupted into cheers. After the Seekers had a chance to thank the gift bearers, the Seneschal took the four Seekers and their two Watchers to a secret location to finalize their plans.

The Grand Seneschal ushered the Seekers into the palace and put them up in a large private study.

The dimly-lit den is decorated by a roaring fireplace, leather upholstered chairs, and musty old tomes. A large table dominates the room, covered in maps. A richly stocked liquor and pipe weed cabinet is open for your use.

The Seneschal folded her hands in her laps. "Thank you for taking part in the ceremony. I feel like it reminded our people of what it was like before the schism. We should get down to work, now. Help yourself to refreshments."

The Seneschal went on to explain important details of the quest.

"It has been many years since we have had contact with Farsky but for humans, this has been generations. There will likely be no sages that were alive when Aduin sought their aid, or when we forged their instruments. We do not even know what they charge for their services, but we will provide you with double the sum that Aduin payed 130 years ago to ensure their cooperation" She gestured to the corner to a strongbox full of platinum trade bars worth 10,000 gp.

"Remember that the Watchers are as important as the prophecy itself," she explained. "The prophecy will guide our path, but the Watchers are the key to helping our people accept the past, especially the side that loses. There are people on both sides that would look for any excuse to derail this process, to make sure their side wins."

"And, there is a matter of the path you will take. You have two choices before you. When Farksy was built there was a direct pass from Kaled Del to the Monastery through the mountain. It is the path that Aduin took, and is by far the fastest route taking only 4 days of travel. However, the pass has been many years in disservice and we cannot vouch for its safety. Moreover, it now skates through the fringes of the Goblin King's lands and you can expect resistance."

"The other choice would take you overland. A ship will take you up the Graywater to Issica, a human town. From there, you can head up the mountain on whatever pass the surface dwellers use to reach Farsky. The people of Issica may have had more contact in recent years with the monastery, and though this pass will have its own dangers, at least it will not take you through the lands of our arch enemies. Still, this pass will take take twice as long, and carrying this sum through human lands brings with it its own dangers."

"Please feel free to discuss among yourselves before the Watchers arrive. If you have any questions or requests, I will be attending you from outside. You need but ask."

Indeed, Torden has not encountered anyone on the surface who has uttered the word "Farsky" since his earliest days of travel, an entire human generation ago. He likely recognizes the overland pass that travels up the mountain, even walked it several times, but has never seen a Monastery at the summit. Given that Aduin forbade the Dwarves from visiting the monastery, you probably haven't tried too hard, but you can be the judge of the reason why you have never visited.

Each character can briefly describe their emotional state, which will be known to the sprite. To save time, I'll roll the charisma saves from the three other party members. If you get below 10, I'll share your alignment.

A quick note to Snowy: this is pretty innocent, so no problem here. But just for the record, keep any stuff that is against the party's will or knowledge in check so it doesn't become a problem.

The sprite learns that Thorin is LG, Aldrik is CG

Players: There hasn't been much activity in the past 24 hours, so I'll put this out there in a more obvious manner. The matter at hand you must decide is whether to travel over the mountain or under on your way to Farsky. This decision has real consequences on the adventure. Roleplaying this discussion in-character will give everyone an opportunity to get into character and help other players understand your character so they can better roleplay with you.

Thanks Snowy and Jabes for getting this started.

Another equally important question: whiskey, rum, or gutbuster?

After a few more minutes of awkward silences, the Grand Seneschal opens the door, flanked by the two Watchers.

"My apologies for interrupting, Seekers of the Answer. The Watchers have arrived."

In strides Guildleader Prust, barely fitting through the doorway. He makes his way immediately to the refreshments and pours a tall draught of gutbuster, filling the air with its potent aroma. He takes a seat at your table, the chair noticeably sagging.

"Lads! Time to put an end to all of this nonsense, eh?" He raises his tumbler to you and tosses back the drink in a single motion.

Afterward, Stonemother Dwalia enters, her movements graceful and deliberate.

"Good-day, Seekers of the Question" she says through tight lips with not even a hint of a smile.

She selects an ornately carved ivory pipe and sits on the opposite end of the table, taking measured breaths of smoke.

"So, is it going to be over the mountain or through it?" calls out Prust after a loud belch.

"It would be wise not to tell us," says the Stonemother. "There are factions that would derail this quest, and our company is not worthy of trust."

"Bah! Are you - are you suggesting I would ... that I could ... WOMAN LISTEN HERE!" Prust explodes into a rage, and slams his hands on the table, sending a few maps scrolls tumbling to the floor.

"If ANYONE is not to be trusted, its you, you dried up old CUNT! You'd do ANYTHING to slow down the inevitable. You'd justify ANYTHING to keep your precious oath, even if it damned us all!"

Dwalia's face didn't change in the slightest. "Guildleader Prust, as always your show of emotion is an embarrassment." She turned to the Seekers. "We should be lead blindfolded down whatever route you select, and only remove that blindfold once we are well outside of Kaled Del."

"Oh and I suppose we can just TRUST you not to use your magic to signal the direction we head out?"

"I am not the oathbreaker."

"I cannot BELIEVE THIS! I am being singled out as untrustworthy? We all know that delaying this mission or derailing it is only of benefit to PREACHERS!"

"Guilderleader Prust, your poor grasp of facts ever amazes me ..."

The two continue on their argument, getting less and less cordial every minute.

After a few more minutes of awkward silences, the Grand Seneschal opens the door, flanked by the two Watchers.

"My apologies for interrupting, Seekers of the Answer. The Watchers have arrived."

In strides Guildleader Prust, barely fitting through the doorway. He makes his way immediately to the refreshments and pours a tall draught of gutbuster, filling the air with its potent aroma. He takes a seat at your table, the chair noticeably sagging.

"Lads! Time to put an end to all of this nonsense, eh?" He raises his tumbler to you and tosses back the drink in a single motion.

Afterward, Stonemother Dwalia enters, her movements graceful and deliberate.

"Good-day, Seekers of the Question" she says through tight lips with not even a hint of a smile.

She selects an ornately carved ivory pipe and sits on the opposite end of the table, taking measured breaths of smoke.

"So, is it going to be over the mountain or through it?" calls out Prust after a loud belch.

"It would be wise not to tell us," says the Stonemother. "There are factions that would derail this quest, and our company is not worthy of trust."

"Bah! Are you - are you suggesting I would ... that I could ... WOMAN LISTEN HERE!" Prust explodes into a rage, and slams his hands on the table, sending a few maps scrolls tumbling to the floor.

"If ANYONE is not to be trusted, its you, you dried up old CUNT! You'd do ANYTHING to slow down the inevitable. You'd justify ANYTHING to keep your precious oath, even if it damned us all!"

Dwalia's face didn't change in the slightest. "Guildleader Prust, as always your show of emotion is an embarrassment." She turned to the Seekers. "We should be lead blindfolded down whatever route you select, and only remove that blindfold once we are well outside of Kaled Del."

"Oh and I suppose we can just TRUST you not to use your magic to signal the direction we head out?"

"I am not the oathbreaker."

"I cannot BELIEVE THIS! I am being singled out as untrustworthy? We all know that delaying this mission or derailing it is only of benefit to PREACHERS!"

"Guilderleader Prust, your poor grasp of facts ever amazes me ..."

The two continue on their argument, getting less and less cordial every minute.

Dwarves of Kaled Del know Stonemother Dwalia as a mid-ranked member of Temple of Moradin. She is known for her cold, uncompromising ways and is considered judgemental and arrogant by some. However, those her call her a friend know her as highly intelligent, trustworthy, and not afraid to speak her mind. She has risen to the top ranks of the Preachers because of her outspoken personality and intellect. She has no patience or compassion for Breachers.

Stonemother Dwalia is a level 1 Hill Dwarf life domain cleric with the Acolyte background.



Guildleader Shale Prust is the leader of the mining guild in Kaled Del and head of clan Prust. It is commonly believed that he can smell mithril through a mile of solid rock, and he has lead the city to great wealth time and time again. Before the schism, the Guildleader could be found drinking in every tavern, clanking tankards and sharing drunken laughs with all. He is a man of the people, and even some Preachers find themselves grudgingly liking him from time to time. He has become one of loudest voices among the Breachers and has found many sympathetic ears among miners without jobs and the many who have lost family and friends in the countless wars against the goblins.

To others, Shale Prust is greedy and self-absorbed. They criticise him for being a good talker and not much else. They also see his drive to enrich his kingdom as vanity and greed as much as doing it for the good the Kaled Del. The schism has soured his good nature and his rages are legendary; some Preachers think he is dangerous.

Guildleader Shale Prust is level 1 Mountain Dwarf barbarian with the Guild Artisan background.

Finn, make a performance (cha) check to see how well you conceal your whisper. You have advantage because of Guildleader Prust's shouting. Characters with a passive perception that beats your role will notice your whispering.

Performance Check

Guildleader Prust is fuming mad. He looks up to the roof as if talking to Moradin: "First they want to blindfold me, now they want to gag me! By all the gems in Mount Celestia ..."

Dwalia looks at Finn with an emotionless gaze. "The Watchers defer to the Seekers in all things for this quest."

Drake learns that Guildleader Prust's emotional state is straight-up angry, while Stonemother Dwalia's is a mix of annoyance and contempt.

Prust smiled back "Ah, if it isn't the Copperhearth lad with his little elf knives! When are you going trade those toothpicks in for a real weapon? Ah, I'm just teasing you of course. You know I was there at Thunderbridge when you turned the tide. Ya stuck plenty of goblins with your toothpicks, that you did."

The Stonemother sighed heavily. She tapped out her pipe and headed to the door. "If you need me, I will be at the temple in meditation until our departure at dawn."

So, you have chosen the overland route of travel, and so will start the next chapter of the game. I'll make the next chapter as a separate thread. That way, if you had anything else you wanted to add to this scene (questions to ask, requests to make, alcohol to consume) or if you wanted to do any unfinished business (acquire non-magical items, say good-byes, conduct research, cast spells, etc.) you can add it to this thread.

To keep the game moving forward, we can have the this thread and chapter 2 thread both open for awhile, but once everyone is posting in the chapter 2 thread, I'll lock this one. If necessary, we can retcon chapter 2 to update decisions made here.

"Aye Finn, I think that is a good idea."

Guildleader Prust downs another cup of gutbuster and gives Finn a slap on the back. As a fellow Breacher, Finn automatically has his bond as the two political factions have become like clans in Kaled Del.

"No blindfold then? Ha! That crazy witch, can you believe her? Moradin help us all." And with that, Shale Prust squeezes his girth through the door frame.

The Grand Senecshal provides you with these items without cost.