Prologue - The Dark within the Woods

A dishevelled vagrant wanders into the outskirts of Phlan , his eyes wide with fever and tongue lolling from dehydration. Passers-by give him a wide berth, his mutterings and intense glare a sure sign of madness. Without warning he begins screaming, “They’ve taken them! Coming out of the trees!”. He collapses into the street in delirium, but not before a sigil of the Merchants Alliance rolls out from the tatters of his clothes. Folk wander closer, smelling the potential of a reward, only to which they hear his final ramblings:  “Fangorn’s breath, save us all. They’re coming. They’re coming…..”
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The news spreads like wildfire across the town – by evening every tavern is alight with talk. After weeks of simmering tensions, mysterious attacks and sightings of beasts on Phlan’s fringes, the pressure has finally erupted. A caravan under the sponsorship of the Merchant’s Alliance had been attacked by creatures unknown, it’s occupants butchered or secreted away into the Quivering Forest. By who exactly is unknown, but rumours are abound that the Forest is once again rising up against the town and civilisation.

The Merchant’s Alliance demand satisfaction, petitioning the Council and Speaker to take action, for if such a transgression goes unanswered, then the whole region would be under threat from maraunding beasts. After heated debate, the Speaker finally gives his view; he demands calm and that a delegation be sent to formally speak to the Forest’s inhabitants. Though many question his decision, his word holds much power and the town’s competing factions agree to hold back from taking further action.
 
However, the Alliance remains unsatisfied and take a different tact; though not willing to take on the Speaker themselves, they offer a 2000gp contract to anyone who can rescue the survivors and a further 3000gp to kill the perpetrators.
 
They are not alone in their maneuvering, as various parties and factions flex their powers. Though formally the Black Fists have ruled the attack outside their jurisdiction, many of the rank & file are restless, if not vocal at not being able to defend the city as well as be denied the opportunity for loot. The Emerald Enclave no doubt have a stake in the Forest whilst the Zhentarium are publically advocating that the town employ them to deal with the problem (a proposition that rankles the Fists, Alliance and the town’s folk alike). Word is, even the Harpers are fashioning an intervention.
 
Regardless, an enterprising band of adventurers can find opportunity here whether it be for justice, wealth, power or fame. However, no doubt others will have similar thoughts…..