The Midwinter Festival
The Midwinter Festival in Waterdeep brought together four adventurers who had not yet crossed paths. Franziskus, a human Paladin and soldier of Waterdeep; Delondrus Doondrum, a Loxodon Druid newly arrived in the city; Kahani, a Lizardfolk Rogue with connections to underground societies like the Zhentarim; and FEND, a Warforged Artificer, a gentle giant in search of his mentor.
Festivities and Competitions
They participated in various intriguing competitions such as guessing the number of beans in a jar, drinking contests, and testing their strength with advanced punching machines sponsored by Dr. Dr. Jarvis from the capital, Springwater. The group engaged in these festivities and emerged victorious, winning formidable prizes.
The Werewolf Attack
Suddenly, the entire marketplace was bathed in a blinding light. A massive fireball hurtled towards the citizens at great speed. Miraculously, thanks to Delondrus’ heroic intervention, who conjured a spontaneous wall of plants, the fireball was halted, sparing any harm to the people. However, a new threat emerged swiftly: a horde of werewolves descended upon the city. The adventurers joined forces and managed to defeat the werewolves, but not before one of them kidnapped a child.
Seeking Answers
Lady Laeral Silverhand, the Lady of Waterdeep, informed them that children had been frequently abducted in recent months, though she was unaware of the reason. She mentioned Artor Morlin, a somewhat benevolent vampire residing in Waterdeep’s sewers, who might possess more information. After solving a few moderate riddles, they learned from Artor Morlin about a ritual enabling vampires to resist fire damage, requiring the sacrifice of twelve children at a specific time.
The Arcane Eye
At the magic store “The Arcane Eye,” they met Pumat Sol, a Tortle who owned branches in every major city and stocked up on their rations and potions
Encounter with Rahadin
The group learned of an abandoned ruin of a church battlemap omitted where the abducted children were believed to be held. After luring away the ogres guarding the area, they discovered a secret underground cave battlemap omitted beneath the ruins. There, they encountered Rahadin, a powerful vampire and former right-hand of Lord Strahd von Zarovich himself. With ruthless determination, they defeated Rahadin and rescued the children. Additionally, Rahadin’s servant, Pidlwick II, chose to accompany them. They returned a defeated werewolf named Halfdan to Waterdeep, where he was healed by the local priest. Halfdan and his wife Frieda pledged their allegiance to the group in gratitude.
The Reward
As a reward for their heroic deeds, Lady Laeral granted them a plot of land with a tavern on it. The group named themselves “The Deam” henceforth, and their tavern became known as “The Davern.”