Editing The World Tree:Main Page/Prologue (section)

==== Setup: ====
What happens next is up to the players.  As the DM narrates the following sequence, players may insist on a check to hide.  Two men are walking down the road. This will require a DC 17 Stealth Check, due to the two figures watching the party traveling. Keep whether the rolls were a success or failure a secret and continue with the encounter.

If the entire party hides successfully, the two will continue one, awarding experience equivalent for the two of them.  If anyone in the party fails, the two men will stage a conversation about whether one remembered the money for the toll ahead.  They will then be attacked with surprise as other members of the Scarlet Eye sneak up on those who failed.

If the party chooses to confront the two men with words, the following will take place:

''Upon the path in the distance, two men are approaching you from the road, seeming as if though they are traveling to Valea. As you approach one another, they call out to you.''

''"Hold traveler!  The toll for this road is 10 gp. You'll have to turn back if you can't pay it."''

Then it is up to the players to pay or not to pay. The two can not be persuaded to ignore the toll and if questioned about the reason, will respond with threats and violence, possibly charging more for things such as horses, races, weapon possession, etc.  If the party pays and continues, no experience is given. Choosing to fight will invoke an encounter.

If the party failed a stealth check or refuse to pay, begin the encounter. Refer to Prologue Scene Levels for the battle map of this area.