The Call to Cliffhaven

The story of a young cleric's path to redemption and a return their home... Cliffhaven is an actual location in our ⁠dagger-heart game which the players have yet to explore. This is my way to build some details into the world naturally, through stories, and create some NPCs / locations and more!

WARNING: for the moment, I am relying on ChatGPT as the DM. I try to use creative tools such as the Story Engine (and related products) as well, but this is the best situation for me currently.

Session 0 Recap: The Call of Cliffhaven

Introduction to Cliffhaven PortVeylin Bancroft, a conflicted former cleric of the Sanctuary of the Tides, arrived at the bustling Cliffhaven Port—a city carved into towering cliffs and brimming with trade, intrigue, and mystery. Seeking redemption and answers to the growing tension surrounding the sanctuary, Veylin set out to re-familiarize themselves with the port, starting at the lively Tempest Market.

Meeting Carvel DuneAt the heart of the market, Veylin encountered Carvel Dune, a charming and resourceful minstrel with an eye for opportunity. After a brief exchange, Carvel offered to serve as Veylin’s guide through Cliffhaven, hinting at whispers of strange activity near the sanctuary and the docks. Together, they decided to begin their investigation by seeking out Lana Driftmark, a dockside figure with connections to the shadowy undercurrents of the port.

Approaching Lana DriftmarkVeylin and Carvel found Lana leaning against a stack of crates near the Seabreaker Shipwrights, exuding caution and confidence. After a tense introduction, Veylin revealed their troubled history with the sanctuary and their belief that its stability—and possibly its very existence—was at risk. Lana listened, skeptical but intrigued, and agreed to help under two conditions: fair compensation for her involvement and a commitment from Veylin to see the mission through, no matter how messy it got.

A Quiet ResolveWith Lana agreeing to meet at the Tide’s End Tavern at dawn, Veylin and Carvel returned to the tavern for a drink and a quiet moment of reflection. Veylin secured a room for the night and shared his intent to start investigating rumors of secret shipments moving through the docks under cover of fog. Despite the whispers of Ondraya calling them forward, Veylin knew the road ahead would not be without danger—or sacrifice.

Session 0 Highlights

  • Veylin’s Motivations: Introduced the emotional weight of Veylin’s past and his drive for redemption.
  • Key Allies: Carvel Dune’s charm and Lana Driftmark’s guarded pragmatism set the stage for a dynamic team dynamic.
  • First Steps: A decision to start with the mysterious dock shipments hints at the layers of intrigue surrounding the sanctuary.
  • Tone and Themes: Redemption, loyalty, and the quiet undercurrents of danger established the mood for the campaign.

What’s Next? With dawn approaching, Veylin prepares to meet Lana and begin uncovering the truth behind the sanctuary’s troubles. The docks hold secrets yet to be revealed, and the path forward promises twists, challenges, and perhaps even betrayal.

End of Session 0.

Looking forward to picking this up again when you're ready for Session 1! Let me know if there’s anything you’d like to adjust or explore further in the story.