Adventurers League: DDEX #1-05 The Courting of Fire (Inactive)

Game Master Aeshuura

An exiled cultist and his kobold minions are spotted searching for long-forgotten ruins in the Dragonspire Mountains. Rumors say he looks for a precious gift to give a fearsome dragon that dwells there. What he hopes to attain with his gift is unknown, but can't be good for the citizens of Phlan.

An introductory adventure for 1st-4th level characters.


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Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

Some of you have been in Phlan for a while, others just arrived. Set on the Northern bank of the Moonsea, Phlan is a small town that recently lost its Lord Protector. The interim Lord Protector is the Captain of the Black Fist guard, and has brought a strict, almost draconian, enforcement of the laws.

Cool, early-evening air blows through a narrow street in Phlan. The streets are bustling with famished laborers out for a meal, vendors hawking their wares, and grimy sailors looking for moorage at a barstool in their favorite tavern.

The evening's peace is broken as a burly Black Fist guard pushes his way through the rabble and drives a nail through a sheet of parchment with a stout hammer, affixing it to a signpost.

In bold, black print it reads, "Wanted for Thievery Most Cunning."

What do you do?

--

Some things to note, motivations are your own.

Have any of the PCs that are above 1st level met the Lord Sage of Phlan?


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Sir Adrian is out for a walk near the seedier side of Phlan, as he sees his Groom reading the new posting with interest. He strides purposefully to him.

Step aside, Devon, my good man, and let us have a look.

Sir Adrian reads the post to determine exactly who is wanted and the details of the act.


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

Ander's eyes widen with possibility upon seeing the heading on the notice. "This could be my chance to try out what I've been learning," he thinks to himself excitedly. As politely as he can while still making progress, he works his way past the crowd to look at the notice and see what details it might offer.

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

The signpost has a number of similar signs nailed to it, but the most recent addition describes the crimes and misdeeds of a man named Spernik. It also has a caricature of a young male human, with protruding rat-like ears and beady eyes.

It looks like the artist may have taken a little liberty in this drawing.

The list of charges include theft, breaching the peace, rendering aid and abetment to the enemies of Phlan, and a slew of lesser offenses.

At the bottom, the posting reads, "Reward promised by the Lord Sage of Phlan."


Female Elf Rogue 2 || AC 13 || HP 13/13 || Init +2 || Passive Perception 14

Reading the sign, Sen shrugs. It sounds like something to pass the time, and since she has nothing better to do without any leads on her search, she figures she might as well go looking for this Spernik. Perhaps she'll find a lead or two in the process.


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

"Hm," Ander thinks, "That's not much to go on... Maybe Lord Sage can offer more information about where to find this Spernik fellow and what he's capable of."

Ander looks around a moment, and recognizes a noble standing nearby. (Sir Adrian)

"I beg your pardon, m'lord," Ander says humbly, lowering his head slightly, "But would you happen to know how I might contact the Lord Sage of Phlan to ask for details about how best to go about capturing the man on this poster?"

Scarab Sages

Male Dwarf Gunslinger Guntank: Spd:20, Init:3, AC:17, T:13, FF:14, 1 cold and fire resistance, 14/14 HP, Fort:5(Hardy), Ref:5, Will:2, 1/1 Grit, 5 Perc, Darkvision

"I think we should ask the Lord Sage of Phlan about it. He is the one who posted the sign."


Init +4 | HP 33/33 | AC 14 | S-1/D+6/C+1/I+2/W+0/C+7 | Perc +5 | Insp: [ ] Consumables

Heh. Good luck with that friends. I've heard tale that the Lord Sage is a right bastard who'd sooner spit on you than speak to you. says a roguishly handsome half elf. Uriah Lewis, or The Lewis to my sycophants. At your service. the man says with a bow.

I suggest we learn the truth from the source...the people of Phlan!


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

A man with a shaved head and lightning visibly arcing across his scalp, pushes his way past the crowd gathered around the sign post. Bumping a few out of the way, he says S'cuse me. He puts extinquishes is hand rolled cigarette on the post itself and tears down the signs. A gruff, Hmpf can be heard as he heads to where he last met the Lord Sage for previous work in the Library.

Sorry not much of a team player with this character, not much of a healer either. Though prove yourself to him and he has your back no matter what, unfortunately having jut met you he is going to be a right bastard.


male Human Fighter/3 AC15 HP 31/31 Init:+3 PP:14 SW [ ] AS [ ]

From the shadows, Wrathmire watches the scene play out before finally following the man that took the sign.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Wrathmire, I believe we would be the only two that know each other, as we are both part of that family known as the Zhentarim and Urchins.

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

So this guy just walked right up and tore the poster off the sign and walks off toward Mantor's Library. Most of you have a general idea of what is in town and can make out what things are about by their appearance.

There are three inns (The Laughing Goblin, The Cracked Crown, and The Bitter Blade), a tavern (Nat Wyler's Bell), and a festhall (The Velvet Doublet).

Mantor's Library is the collection of knowledge in this town.

Cockburn's Grocery sells adventuring gear, Matteo's is the weaponsmith, and Ernst's is a livery.

For those proficient in Streetwise:
Jerome of Malvaunt is the fence for your illicit goods.

What would you like to do?

EDIT: You do notice that there are copies of this wanted poster every block or so.


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

"Proficient in Streetwise"...?

Seeing one man take the ad and walk off like he knows where he's going, and seeing another man go with him, Ander decides that's his best bet and hustles to catch up.

"Hello!" he calls amicably as he matches their pace. "Are you two looking to take on that bounty as well? I'd love to get in on it; how about we work together?"

Ander finishes his greeting with an expectant smile.

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

Ander Meliamne, just a bit of info for those of a "seedier" nature.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

There is no streetwise in 5e

Depends. Says the grim man, never breaking his gaze from Mantor's Library, Can you take care of yourself? I'm not into babysitting.

This character has GM credit for #1-01 through #1-04 as well as others, so he may know a couple of the NPCs and will roleplay to continue with the way, I left it, if that's okay.


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

"Hey, I'm no freeloader," Ander replies, sounding almost offended. "I'll earn my share, whether by crossing swords with a villain or by putting your stuffings back in after you've crossed swords with a villain."

Ander clears his throat and resumes his previous smile. "Anyway," he says, "My name is Ander Meliamne. What's yours?"


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

HA! HA! HA! a boisterous laugh booms from the man carrying everyone's payday. I have the blessings of Anhur! However, you are more than welcome to accompany us! We could always use a good stable boy. He says further antagonizing the soft hearted warrior.

EDIT: Wrathmire, I am still just a Fang, like yourself, I only need 1 more Renown to go up in Rank. It's the downfall of GM credit, no renown is given to your character.


male Human Fighter/3 AC15 HP 31/31 Init:+3 PP:14 SW [ ] AS [ ]

Wrathmire continues behind Godrey, a good 3 paces, knowing his rank within the Zhentarim. Not wanting to address his superior without reason, he remains silent and alert.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Sir Adrian dismisses his attendants, and walks quickly to catch up to the punks who took the sign. He stops in front of them, and gives a half-bow.

Good day to you, gents. I am Sir Adrian Fullbright, and I too will be speaking with the Lord Sage about this endeavor. I am certain that I can obtain an audience, unless of course some of you have already encountered the Lord?


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Godfrey will push his way past the self-important noble, Come on, boot-licker, we are going to see the old man.

Oh, what a merry f!&+ing band we make.

Not sure, but do I get Cantrips from both sorcerer and cleric together or separately.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

As he attempts to push by, Sir Adrian will simply hold his ground. He smiles broadly.

I strongly suggest that you not touch me again, street scum. Show us to the Lord Sageso that we may be about our business.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Sleight of Hand:
Sleight of Hand: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16

Godfrey will give a mocking bow, at "Sir" Adrian's orders. Little did the lordling know, the push was a lift. Godfrey now in the lead, will check out, Boot-Lickers, coin purse and scoff at the amount. Looking back, You might want to keep a tighter grip on your purse, me lord. as he tosses the purse back to the noble.

The rape-born called me street scum. I am better equipped than him in all manner possible and he still orders me around. I do hope he has need of me, later. A wry smile creeps across his face.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Ah, gutter scum and I thief, I see. How appropriate. Be wary, Ander and Uriah, there are lightfingers among us. It may very well be possible that Spernik, our quarry reports to this bragadocious vagabond, here.


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

Ander was just about to point out that he was the one who crafted Sourpuss' hammer handle, but he only got as far as opening his mouth before the witness of a thieving prank against a noble made him freeze. A few moments later, he comes to himself again, closes his mouth, and catches up to the group again. He says nothing but takes care to walk closer to Sir Adrian than to Sourpuss.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Looks like Sir Boot-licker von Rapey has found a squire.


male Human Fighter/3 AC15 HP 31/31 Init:+3 PP:14 SW [ ] AS [ ]

Wrathmire ignores the squabble and continues to follow Godfrey.

Scarab Sages

Male Dwarf Gunslinger Guntank: Spd:20, Init:3, AC:17, T:13, FF:14, 1 cold and fire resistance, 14/14 HP, Fort:5(Hardy), Ref:5, Will:2, 1/1 Grit, 5 Perc, Darkvision

Kane buys his potions really quick then follows Godfrey as well. Some Dm's roleplaying buying of items, but that is extreme, though if you want me to roleplay going to the store to buy my items I will

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

I am fine with hand-waiving he shopping, especially early on, just make sure to note it on the log.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Sir Adrian simply shakes his head in derision at the small-minded, street punk.

I hope I do not need to depend on the likes of him on this endeavor. Torm knows, he likely has nothing to offer to our success.


Init +4 | HP 33/33 | AC 14 | S-1/D+6/C+1/I+2/W+0/C+7 | Perc +5 | Insp: [ ] Consumables

The man's manners are most lacking. is all Uriah replies to Adrian. But he does have a way with words. Boot licker is filled with such wit. I wonder he does not have an act in the local tavern. Uriah adds drolly.

Uriah falls into step behind Anders and begins recounting a tale he remembers of the Former Lord Commander's exploits.

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

As you approach Mantor's Library, you see the sun-bleached colonnades that frame the austere facade of the building. A solitary bench sits next to a tranquil pond at the fore of the property, in the senter of Scholar's Square. The grounds are well kept and festooned with blooming flowers and other local flora.

As you approach the entrance to the library, a young man takes account of your dress and demeanor and bows respectfully. "Good evening. Are you hear to meet with the Lord Sage?"


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

"Indeed we are, sir," Ander says with a smile. "We'd like to ask for more details regarding this recent Wanted poster."


Female Elf Rogue 2 || AC 13 || HP 13/13 || Init +2 || Passive Perception 14

Sen is inside, near the entrance, undecided if she wants to investigate this by herself or round up a party. As the door opens to let someone out, she spies the group outside. Judging by their open display of a myriad of weapons, this is probably her best chance to find a party. She slips outside and hovers at the edge of the group.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Good day, I am Sir Adrian Fullbright, and as my friend Ander has indicated, my comrades and I wish to secure an audience with the Lord Sage.

Persuasion: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

He nods quietly then speaks, "Right this way."

The young librarian leads you through the library, and up some stairs leading you to the Lord Sage's office, a plush office with several tomes stacked up on several desks. Standing in front of an open window, facing out, his hands wringing each other behind his back, is the Lord Sage.

As the young man introduces you, the Lord Sage turns around. He is older, but his eyes belie ages gone by and speak of some elven ancestry. That being said, some more observant folk might see the bags beginning to form under his eyes from lack of sleep.

"Thank you for coming. You are no doubt here for information," he says.


male Human Fighter/3 AC15 HP 31/31 Init:+3 PP:14 SW [ ] AS [ ]

Wrathmire stands in the corner with his arms crossed.

"We are here about the bounty for some criminal, do you have any other details that could help us find him?"


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Godfrey will stride in, slam the bounty poster down on the desk and drive a small knife through it. This. He waits a moment. We are here about this old man. The bounty better be worth my time, now how much are you paying?


Init +4 | HP 33/33 | AC 14 | S-1/D+6/C+1/I+2/W+0/C+7 | Perc +5 | Insp: [ ] Consumables

Surely what my loquacious friend means is that he is interested in remuneration for the apprehension and retrieval, perhaps final, of said individual. He of course values his travails most highly, so therefore any such said remuneration should be quite large. Uriah flashes a winning smile that doesn't betray that he knows only about half of the big words he used.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

What the f*@# did he just say? Godfrey thinks before turning to the unknown half-elf, Uriah, The f@%+ you just say?!?


Init +1 | AC 17 | HP 28/28 | S+5/D+1/C+4/I+1/W+3/C+0 | Perc +3 | 2Wnd: [X] | Surge: [ ] | Sup: (DC 13, d8) 4/4 | HD: (d10) 3/3 | Insp: [ ]

Ander leans over toward Godfrey and whispers, "He said you're here about the wanted man, and that the bounty better be worth your time, and that you want to know how much he's paying."


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Yeah, that. He says to the Lord Sage matter-of-fact-like.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

How in the name of Torm did I get mixed up with this lot?

Lord Sage, we need to know the details of the reward, and we would like to know any information that you have on the thief you seek. It would be helpful to know what we are up against and his last known locations.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

Stop talking to him like he's the almighty. He, like you, is a douche, boot-licker. Now just tell us what we need to know you old fart so some real work can get done.

filios, this is all said in jest. If you need me to step it back a bit I will.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Not at all, we have gamed together too often for me to take offense. Stay in character - it makes it fun.

Sir Adrian stares at Godfrey, before saying through clenched teeth.

Your personal offenses against me are beyond reproach, and I find that my approach will tend to yield much greater results than yours. You WILL pay for these personal attacks when this is all over. For now, I suggest you maintain some modicum of decency until we complete the task at hand.

He turns to the Lord Sage, and smiles broadly.

I must apologize for the behavior of my unsolicited associate. He has much to learn about manners and appropriate civility. What can you tell us, Lord Sage?


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

here, me lord. Godfrey tosses the lordling a gold piece, that should cover any offenses that i've made to your good nature. I have after all seen your purse. As far as unsolicited. I will have you know that I solicite myself as often as possible.


Chaotic Good Half-Elf Paladin (Noble) 1; AC: 16; HP: 11; Perception +0; Initiative: +0; Spell Slots Remaining: LV1 - 0/0; Inspiration: 0

Sir Adrian ignores yet another affront.

There is far more to the worth of a man than the gold in his purse. You, of all people, should know as much.


AC 19; HP 28/28; Init +2; Conditions: None; Spells Used (1) 0/4 (2) 2/2

You said, that I'd pay when this was all over. Just thought I would get that out of the way.


Female Elf Rogue 2 || AC 13 || HP 13/13 || Init +2 || Passive Perception 14

Sen sighs and rolls her eyes. Can we just get the information we came for? You two can argue all you like once we're done here.

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]
Godfrey Heinrich Donner wrote:

Stop talking to him like he's the almighty. He, like you, is a douche, boot-licker. Now just tell us what we need to know you old fart so some real work can get done.

filios, this is all said in jest. If you need me to step it back a bit I will.

This draws a slight raising of the Lord Sage's eyebrow...

Grand Lodge

RPG Chronicles | [url=]Slides]

The Lord Sage clears his throat and nods, "Two days ago, Spernik and his partner in crime, Tibeem--newly hired chroniclers here at the library--were caught sneaking out of my personal office. When questioned as to their purpose, they fled. The Black Fist was summoned and chase ensued."

The austere half-elf pauses a moment to let it sink in, then continues, "The Black Fist managed to capture Tibeem, but not before the man slew one of the guardsmen. Spernik, however, escaped."

"We searched their rooms, and found two rare tomes that had previously been stored in my personal library. What was even more disconcerting was that when we went to replace them, two clever forgeries were left in their place."

"We found the tomes in this," the Lord Sage produces a rather large haversack, "Along with some other equipment. Equipment often associated with a longer expedition. I am concerned that we only found one haversack, despite the fact that there were two residents in that room."

"I am prepared to offer 50 pieces of gold for bringing the thief to justice, and an additional 100 for the safe return of any other books or tomes that were stolen from this library."

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