Introduction

The characters find themselves in the dirty frontier city of Sora along the Sivas River in the small nation of Aden. They approach a rowdy tavern found along the riverfront, aptly named Night's Ferry. It's shingle swaying in the spring breeze, the cut out shape of a black boat swinging back and forth. Stepping inside the characters are assaulted by the sweet stench of cheap Hatayrse incense hanging heavy in the air; a poor attempt to mask the fetid smell of the nearby river fouled by the city's runoff.

     Behind the bar, polishing a mug and surveying the crowd with an appraising eye, the overweight and unshaven propietor Janoosh casually eyes the party before returning his gaze to scan the room. An eclectic group comprised of sailors, vagabonds, locals and travelers occupy the rough hewn tables of the smoky common room. A young red-headed bard with a squeaky voice and even squeakier mandolin stands in a corner of the room, alternating between entertaining the crowd and wooing the passing serving wenches.

     As the adventurers stand in the entryway one of the wenches approaches. Dressed in a short spring skirt and low cut bodice with a intricate orange sash cinched around her slim waist in the local fashion she flashes a smile and winks with kohl lined eyes. "Good evening m'lords and welcome to the Night's Ferry. If ye be lookin' for a warm plate and strong drink, ye be lucky to find a better bitter than Janoosh serves here. There's a table in the corner if it pleases ye. I am Meria." With a final wink and a mischevious smile Meria sweeps back into the crowded room. Your table awaits in the corner, beckoning...