This section of Call of the Netherdeep is based on three opposing factions in Ank’Harel all vying for control over the powers beneath the city. My group leaned towards the two positive factions, especially the Allegiance of Allsight after Prolix went into the Betrayer’s Rise with them. I’ve got the Rivals working for the Consortium of the Vermillion Dream (and amusing myself by shortening it to CoVD). I don’t think that Aloysia is still in their picture after her behavior, but someone else has convinced them that they hold the path to power and prestige.
So, this week, my group did the first mission for the AoA. They weren’t exactly impressed with the letter asking them to, nor the reception they received when they finished the mission. Intentionally. I want them to stay on guard and really think about where they put their loyalty.
The first Cobalt Soul mission isn’t presented in a terribly friendly manner either, so I kept this tone with Iwo, too. He’ll be a bit more engaged if they complete the mission, but until they prove themselves, he is none too friendly either.
Prolix and Question are quite friendly to the group though, so I’m hoping that will help soften things, but I really want them to consider their options here. Might set up Prolix and Question both inviting the group to dinner either before or right after the second missions, if they end up taking both groups’ second missions. For all I know, they won’t and will choose one after this first mission set. Time will tell.
I’m also having a bit of fun with the first CS mission. Hooking it up to the Medusa mission they just finished, as well as a character’s backstory, because of who he was. It’ll be fun to see how it all plays out.
Some downtime coming up for crafting, shopping, and gambling. Might need to make an extra Take mission or two, as well. Might pull up my random monster books.