Zaharra - The encounter of Tiph
As the party navigates the sandy streets of Zaharah toward the Crash site, they spot a small cloaked figure lying prone in their path ahead. Approaching cautiously, they realize it is a quivering female plasmoid. She seems uninjured but visibly distraught.
If the party succeeds on a group perception check (DC22), they notice subtle movements on the nearby rooftops - trained spotters keeping tags on them as well as the plasmoid. Otherwise, just before reaching the plasmoid, crossbow bolts suddenly streak toward the group from concealed positions! Roll initiative against 3 hidden assassins as they spring their ambush.
If the party defeats the attackers, the plasmoid named Tiph rises trembling. "A thousand apologies for luring you into peril. My captors gave me no choice - the alternative was a cruel death for myself and my dear maker." She goes on to explain how local gangs have increasingly used extortion and involuntary coercion to expand their influence.
As Tiph shared her story, the group picked up on her empathy and sincerity. They see the injustice of her exploitation and, knowing she acted from duress rather than malice, offer sympathy and reassurance.
After further discussions the party may choose to help Tiph and others in similar predicaments, possibly uncovering new adventure leads about the seedy underworld's climbing power in Zaharah. For now though, their growling stomachs remind them to first complete the journey to the Dragon Dog Inn for a well earned respite!
https://www.dndbeyond.com/encounters/814ac042-055e-45de-9c9b-af3f9fcce1e0
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