The King's road.

As you begin your trip you feel the need to get to know your travel companions. After all they will be guarding your back from danger. You pull side by side with the grizzled warrior. You recognize him as a mercenary and treasure hunter. As sell-swords go he is known as loyal, honorable, and forthright.

He sees you and says, "I'm quite happy you choose to come, my name is Grayboar. You know you healed me once, when you were an acolyte."

You don't remeber that, but you healed a great many minor wounds as an acolyte and he likely is telling the truth. You give him a peaceful smile, "Why go on this journey? It would seem dangerous without measure."

"I mean to retire my sword soon, miss, the treasure is supposed to be legendary. With even a small part I will live out my days in the splendor of wealth. What do you plan on doing with your share?"

"There is no place in our order for wealth. My only goal on this mission is to see you all back safely." You spur your horse forward and pull up to the elf. On closer inspection you realize he is not a pure-blooded elf, but half human. He has a dour expression on his face.

He turns and sees you and spits, "I don't suppose you know why my guild told me I was was to go on this mission?"

Your reply is simple,"I know nothing more than you. I believe this trip is a dangerous waste of time."

"You and me both. Well my name is Caramus. Be well sister."

You give him one last look and see some darkness within him. He is neither human nor elf and clearly he was excluded and tormented by both. Still by and large he seems good. You spur your horse again, and close on the paladin. She wears a heavy chain armor with the symbol of her order. Given its weight she must be quite strong. Given her face and build you suspect under the armor is an attractive woman.

"So are you off seeking fame and treasure?" You ask.

"No more than you priestess. My order sent me to keep her safe." She points out Arielle. "My name is Chase, may you always find light."

She has effectively ended her conversation with you. You urge your horse forward and soon reach the young blond in the green outfit and leather armor.

You smile at her.

"Hello, priestess, I am Nadine."

"You don't seem like the treasure hunting type."

She laughs. "I'm not really, scout in the King's army and friends with Arielle. She asked me to come on a treasure hunt with her. I certainly wouldn't say no to vast wealth. Though I am a bit surprised to see Arielle out seeking treasure."

This group seems rather odd for treasure hunters. You consider what you have heard as you spur your horse and draw even with the young sell-sword. He is young, well muscled, and attractive.

"So off to look for treasure?" You ask him.

"Treasure, bah." He harrumphs. "I'm here to keep her safe." He points at Arielle and you begin to understand.

It's time to talk to your friend.

You pull up beside side her and whisper, "This is no treasure hunt Arielle. You could at least tell your lover the truth."

"Harold? I tried talking him out of coming. He wouldn't take no for an answer." She replies in a low tone.

"So, if it isn't treasure, why this trip?"

"Treasure hunting is just a cover, though none of the others know. This is King's business. There is concern that something dark, something evil is awakening in the blasted lands. He has sent several spies, and lost contact with all of them." She laughs. "I get all the fun jobs."

You ride beside your friend for hours reminiscing. Soon the the sun is setting and you make camp. Nobody in this mismatched group is particularly talkative so you are soon asleep. the moment you drift off to sleep the bad dreams begin.