[IC] The impossible dream
Lord Lucca spoke. "Of course, we don't have enemies that could seek to interrupt our expedition, but as you know, outside the imperial frontiers there are lots of potential dangers, monsters, wandering bandits, orc and goblin hordes, and even demonic forces."
The Queen interrupted from there. "To make sure you all are able to join the expedition, all of you will take part on a test travel. You'll go on a caravan across the mountains to Vaicia, using a path outside the road network. Being accepted on the final expedition will depend on how well you fare on this travel. You'll be compensated for this leg of the journey, along with a bonus upon being selected. And of course, you'll be able to keep all artifacts that you find, excepting whatever proves to be of historical significance."
The younger duke continued. "The travel to Vaicia is far from a simple test. They keep an artifact that is said to have been left by the Empress of light herself that could prove vital for navigation and that we will negotiate for."