Moonlit Pathfinders

Overview

Adventurers devoted to the protection and preservation of the Darkwood Forest and its surrounding areas. Led by Seraphina Moonshadow, they hold an unwavering reverence for the Old Gods, believing that the natural world is sacred and must be guarded. Their commitment to the ancient ways puts them at odds with the Church of St. Ygg, which seeks to expand the influence of the New Gods.

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Initial Discovery

In Session 44 - The Final Leg, while completing the Prelacy’s first-ever successful Running the Gauntlet to resupply Westkeep, the party "We-Haul" encountered the Moonlit Pathfinders. This friendly ranging group was found in the Crags near the barrows and locks of HEX - 0515. Over the next two days, they journeyed together, traversing the Gauntlet Road and stopping at Haven's Ledge by the Silverlime Gorge, before eventually making it to westkeep just days after its barbarian incursion.

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Leadership and Members

Leader: Seraphina Moonshadow

Role: Elf ranger, sworn protector of the Darkwood Forest.

Description: Seraphina leads with a blend of stern resolve and compassionate stewardship. Her deep connection to the forest and its creatures guides her leadership and decision-making.

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Members

Kaelen the Bright Child human wizard with a keen interest in the arcane secrets of the forest. Kaelen’s curiosity often leads her into trouble, requiring the group’s intervention.

Bronn Stonefist Questionable dwarf fighter who wields an oversized warhammer. Only joins rangings when work is lite at the Westwatchers. Often talks to himself and spends most of his time at the Westwatchers; and is their blacksmith.

Finnian Redblade

A human fighter rescued by the Moonlit Pathfinders after being left for dead in the Darkwood Forest. Now a loyal member, he fights to protect the forest and repay the group that gave him a second chance. His combat skills and fierce loyalty make him a vital ally.

Leader

Seraphina Moonshadow

Location

The WestWatchers

By moon's grace, we walk the untamed path.

— Seraphina Moonshadow

Objectives and Current Concerns

Dedicated to safeguarding the natural balance of the Darkwood Forest, ensuring its protection from those who seek to exploit or harm its sacred lands. They patrol its depths, mediate conflicts between the forest's inhabitants and outsiders, and work to preserve the delicate ecosystems tied to the Old Gods.

In recent months, however, the forest has grown increasingly dangerous. A creeping sickness has taken root beneath the soil, infecting the great trees of the Darkwood with a mysterious sap. Several creatures, normally in tune with the natural harmony, have become erratic and fearful, fleeing from an unseen force that the Moonlit Pathfinders have been unable to trace. Their inability to locate the source of this corruption troubles the group, fueling their resolve to uncover the lurking threat fearing it may spread.

Activities

Patrols and Surveillance: Regular patrols to monitor the forest for any signs of intrusion or danger.

Rescue Missions: Assisting lost travelers along The Gauntlet Road and rescuing those in peril within the forest.

Conflict Mediation: Mediating conflicts between the forest’s inhabitants and external threats.

Arcane Research: Studying the forest’s magical properties to better understand and protect it.

Base of Operations

While often found in town and active members of the WestWatchers, their true base lies in a secluded lodge on the western edge of Darkwood Forest. This lodge serves as their mission planning center and a sanctuary for injured or lost travelers.

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Allies and Enemies

Allies

WestWatchers Guildhall

Despite their focus on the Darkwood Forest the Pathfinders maintain a strong alliance with the WestWatchers, recognizing the importance of cooperation.

Enemies

Poachers and Illegal Loggers: The primary adversaries of the Pathfinders, these individuals seek to exploit the forest for personal gain.

Dark Magical Entities: Various dark forces and magical entities that threaten to corrupt the forest’s natural balance.

Fren-emies

Despite the tension surrounding her use of blood magic, Olwenna Mossveil has proven to be a vital, if controversial, ally in protecting the forest’s hidden mysteries. Her methods, often at odds with the Moonlit Pathfinders' more traditional approaches, raise questions of morality. Yet, when it comes to safeguarding the forest’s secrets, Olwenna’s unorthodox magic has been instrumental—even when their reasons for keeping these secrets differ.

Tensions with the Church of St. Ygg

Although a small adventuring group they are respected in Westkeep and the surrounding areas for their successful missions and unwavering dedication to protecting the Darkwood Forest. They stand in quiet opposition to the Church of St. Ygg and its push for the dominance of the "New Gods." In the northern borderlands of the Prelacy, this tension is ever-present. The Moonlit Pathfinders steadfastly refuse to acknowledge the Futurus, instead venerating only the Anganach, the Old Gods. While their religious beliefs diverge from the ecclesiastical laws enforced by the Prelate, the Pathfinders maintain a respectful, albeit cautious, friendship with Endra of the Watchtower. Both groups choose not to impose their views on one another, though the Prelate would eagerly see the Old Gods erased from memory.