Chapter One - Missing

[RobJN]

Your host looks at everyone, taking in your attire, mannerisms even comments. Juergin has since left Melora's side and gone to sit near his master.

"Very well, I am sure you are all wondering why I have assembled you all here. As all of you are aware, except for Miss Melora perhaps, an earthquake shook the lands not too long ago. Slightly before this, several of my acquaintances have gone missing."

He pauses, looking at Melora with a reassuring smile.

"I am very curious to know more of your city and where you hail from, Miss Melora. In case none of you else know, a city appeared north of Mordentshire almost as if by a miracle. Out of the blue to be precise. It coincided with the earthquake here which I deem to not be a coincidence. The reason I have gathered you all here is to investigate the earthquake and as well, find my missing acquaintances. Some of you might have heard of Dr van Richten and George Weathermay. The third person is a dear friend of mine Fenrick Buerle. Rudolph and George are Hunters but Fenrick is but a scholar and minor illusionist. All three were last seen in Barovia, in Krezk."

"The city to the north is called Vestfold, and is the second largest city in the North. It was the capital before Uther's rebellion." The way she speaks the word makes the capital "N" unmistakable. Melora looks 'round the table, hoping to see a spark of recognition in any of the several pairs of eyes. "Some weeks ago, there was a great explosion in the night, and with the dawn, we found the Cabal's tower destroyed, and the lands around anything but the familiar lakes and fens. I say 'we,' but I really mean 'me.' I can only hope that the folk missing from the city have been left in Blackmoor. Nake has sent what few people he has to scour the streets for survivors, and they've mostly taken refuge under the tents on Circus Hill." She chews her lower lip, frowning, her expression troubled.

"Up until now, I had thought the disappearances from the city another of the Twins' mad little games. But to destroy the seat of the Cabal? Plane-shift an entire city? They may be mischievous little witches, but even this seems beyond their mean streak. They would embarrass the High Spellwise, not blow him up. No, this magic seems a much darker sort..."

Melora looks down the table, towards her host. "I do not know this Van Richten, or Weathermay or Fenrick, but if they know of some way to return me and my city to Blackmoor, then you can count on me to help find them."