Here lies the body of Auberon Greatstag, retired adventurer and owner of the Dread Dragon Inn. It was many years ago that you found yourself exploring alongside him. To think, the mighty Auberon, downed not by a monster or worthy rival, but by some looting lowlife. And that was saying something, too; you’ve known some pretty impressive lowlifes. You notice a folded piece of paper sticking out of one of Auberon’s pockets.On the floor next to the body is an empty goblet.
You check the body for any sign of what might have caused Auberon’s death, but can find no trace of a physical wound. His face appears calm, at least, though knowing what you do of Auberon, you’re sure he would’ve preferred to meet his makers on the battlefield or in a dungeon’s depths, not at the hand of some poison or dark magic.
Curious, you grab the paper from within Auberon’s pocket. The crumpled paper is yellowed and thin, crinkling as you unfold it.
Carefully drawn in dark ink is a crescent moon, sharp and jagged, with a dagger positioned beneath it. A jolt of fear hits you. This is unmistakably the sigil of the Night’s Whisper, the infamous assassin’s guild. What’s it doing in Auberon’s pocket?
The goblet is a finely crafted piece of drinkware, made of polished silver and adorned with intricate designs that gleam in the light of the hearth. It is large enough to hold a generous portion of ale or wine, but not so heavy that it wouldn’t slip easily into a pocket, if you were tempted – which you definitely aren’t. There are a few drops of the famed Dragonfire Mead collected along the inside, but you dare not taste it. You know all too well how little it could take for some of the deadliest poisons to be effective.
