Campaign: “Fury of the Forgotten”
Episode 3: Telltale Tavern Tales
April 24, 2025
The tavern was quieter than expected. Not empty—just subdued. Voices low, laughter near the hearth.
Caelan Thorne stepped inside, his armor drawing a few glances. Some wary. Some curious. Most indifferent. A bard played softly in the corner, something old and slow. The air smelled of damp stone.
He sat alone. The barmaid was busy. He waited. Listening.
Most of it was worthless banter. But mixed in were whispers—graveyards disturbed, doors that would not stay shut, watchmen refusing to patrol the outer wall.
Then someone slid into the seat across from him.
They think it’s just wind,
she said. The noises in the graveyards. The doors swinging open.
He turned to meet her eyes—dark, steady, intelligent. Her raven-black hair was braided tight, revealing a crescent-shaped pendant at her throat. Her robes, royal purple over deep gray, were fitted and worn like a traveler’s. Scrolls and vials lined the belts at her hips.
What do you think it is?
Caelan asked.
Something old. Something buried—and not just in the ground.
He leaned back. Please, do tell.
Nyra Duskmoor. I study the ancient texts. The ruins west of here aren’t just remains of a forgotten war. There's a story—
Let me guess.
Caelan chuckled. A necromancer, come back to haunt us?
She tilted her head, eyes narrowing. You mock it, but you're here. A paladin. Sent by the Order of the Dying Light.
He looked down at the table. You’re right. I am here.
He motioned for the barmaid.
The raven-haired mage leaned in, voice low. The dead don’t just rise. Someone is responsible.
And you think it’s this necromancer from the old stories?
If I’m right, the ruins are where we should begin our quest.
Caelan held her gaze. Our quest?
He hadn’t considered company.
I want to go with you.
It’s not safe for a—
He stopped himself. She was a mage, clearly capable. She might even prove useful.
You mean because I’m a woman?
Slightly annoyed, but accepting the paladin's chauvanesm.
Well I—
He winced. What’s in it for you?
I know more about those ruins than anyone. You need me.
He wasn’t sure if she was after coin, fame, or something else. She didn’t say.
As the barmaid finally arrived, Nyra rose from her seat. She looked back. If you want my help, find me at the west gate.
And just like that, she was gone.
Caelan stared at the door. Wondering. He’d learned all he could from this place. Now came the hard part—choosing what to do next. Just as soon as he finished his drink.