This is Faerun, you live here. I've highlighted the area you guys are going to be starting in.
It is the Year of Wild Magic - 1372, you hope the world calms down a bit after all the recent turmoil. The empire of Shadow has recently reemerged to your northeast and reestablished its borders after being lost in the Plane of Shadow for hundreds of years. You've also heard tell of a new, progressive kingdom of orcs and other demihumans being founded in the north, the first of its kind.
The most significant cities nearby are Baldur's Gate to the west, and Waterdeep to the north-west. Amn, to your south, is in the second year of a war with the Sothillisian empire to their east (not marked - near Brost).
Populations are primarily human, with some halflings, gnomes, and dwarves mixed in. Elves are uncommon, but not necessarily unwelcome in most lands nearby
Characters:
Nick "Hawkeye" - Healer
"Retired" after years of fighting in the armies of Amn to found a brewery in Beregost. Business was good until the place burned down while you slept off a binge, earning you the hatred of most of the town. After months of drinking yourself stupid and trying half-heartedly to raise some cash you're nearly broke. You know the only way you're going get enough booze to get through the day is by selling your skills as a caravan guard and general mercenary.
You dig out your old army gear and throw the third blast of healing energy into your writhing gut today. The ever-present pain dulls a bit as you take a healthy swig from your flask and you wonder why you still care at all. Whatever the reason, you pay your final bill at the Feldposte Inn and start the trudge to the Burning Wizard tavern across town.
Chrisy "Felisin" - Wilder
Life has been easier after leaving the streets of Baldur's Gate. All those memories seem less horrible now and you're enjoying the freedom of the road. Your whims have led you to the thriving town of Beregost along the Sword Coast. You take a room at the Red Sheaf Inn and, after asking around for work a bit, are pointed to the Burning Wizard tavern. You only hope you can keep your secrets and...urges...to yourself this time.
Chris "Houra Ydres" - Binder
You've "collected" many clues to your past and future on your way down the Trade Road from Westgate during the last few months. Now within sight of your goal in Beregost you're beginning to wonder when you'll receive new instructions...
Dustin "Mautilis" - Warblade
After being sprung from the prisons of Athkatla in 1371 by your childhood friend Caronys you left the country of Amn. You have vowed to not return until you have the power and wealth to destroy the Denobir trading house that cast you aside and destroyed your life. After buying some new gear with the scant funds left to you by Caronys before his disappearance, you prepare yourself for your new, temporary, future as a mercenary.
You have each chosen to answer the magical "help wanted" sign of a wizard named Gordrenn who is supposed to meet you at the Burning Wizard tavern today at noon.
We'll pick up there tomorrow.
