Chapter 1 - Groshdou
The city of Kaparin is currently in its lull, with most of the Redfleet out at sea on various expeditions and endeavors. The market is bereft of its usual activity, seeming to be even quieter than usual. Vendors occupy themselves with games or oddities, or simply stand at their tables and booths with their chins resting on their palms. Some have even nodded off, unconcerned with the potential of theft due to the lack of perusers and shoppers.
Kaelan Drell wanders through the street in a bit of a state of ennui, seeing nothing new at the stalls, yet still painfully reminded of the loss of his own store. While absently ambling through the market, he is greeted my Tal Masuu, a trader who had frequented his store on the regular and would keep him abreast of news from afar.
They shake hands and exchange pleasantries, then catch up on the meager crumbs of gossip each have to share.
“My friend,” Tal says as he places a hand on Kaelan’s shoulder. “I’m truly sorry to hear about the loss of the store. Kaparin, as well as many of us mercantiles, suffered a great loss that day. I know it isn’t much, but please accept this gift.” He hands him a writing instrument. “This is a pen with a very unique property. The words you write with it are not readily apparent, but only become visible at very low temperatures.
“I truly wish I could do more for you to help you get back on your feet, but perhaps there is value in a bit of information I have to share? You of course are familiar with the neighboring village of Groshdou? Well, as we passed through there on our way here from Rachar we encountered a man by the name of Mardrough, a seeker. He boasted of discovering an interesting piece of numenera which he did show me, but I could not ascertain its purpose upon sight. He is certain there are many more to be found where he obtained that piece, and he was intent on returning there within a couple of days or so. Of course, he would divulge little else about the location or the nature of this place.
“As I know you are in need of replenishing your wares and since the Redfleets are not expected to return for some time, I thought you might see an opportunity with this Mardrough fellow? Though he was not forthcoming with me, perhaps your excellent skills of persuasion and your gift for gab might prove useful in convincing him to divulge the location of his find?
“One more thing: just an FYI… the folk of Groshdou seemed to be a bit out of sorts for some reason. While they were no less hospitable than normal, they seemed on edge and a bit distracted, quite unlike their usual gregarious nature. Just thought I would give you a bit of a heads up.”
Tal Masuu visits with Kaelan a short while longer, then states he must take his leave. He bids his old friend well and leaves to join his soon departing caravan.
OOC: You may consider yourself present during this exchange or join up with Kaelan at any time from this point.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:28, Wed 13 Sept 2017.