A wealthy merchant approaches the party with an unusual proposition. He needs a small group of capable individuals for a delicate job, one that requires discretion far more than brute force. There is a gathering in three days’ time, a formal affair at a noble’s estate, and someone attending that gathering needs to die before the night is over. The merchant will provide fine clothes, forged invitations, and the services of a wizard to alter the party’s appearances. He will also provide a generous purse, half up front and half upon confirmation of the kill.
The catch, beyond the obvious ones, is that the party will not know who their target is until they arrive and begin working the room. Guests are searched for weapons at the door, so conventional methods are off the table. The merchant has arranged for a small vial of odorless poison to be concealed inside one of the outfits. The party must mingle, gather clues, identify the right person, and find a way to administer the poison without raising suspicion, all while keeping up appearances in a room full of nobles, guards, and people who are very good at noticing when something is wrong.
What the merchant has not told them is that the target knows someone may be coming for them tonight.
Party Level: Any. Combat is minimal by design. This hook rewards roleplay, social skills, and creative problem-solving over combat ability.
World: Any.
System: Any fantasy rule-set will work great.
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