Let's get started with a game of Dungeons & Dragons!

Before we begin, let me clarify some things:

* I'll be the Game Master (GM) and will guide you through the story.
* You'll control your character(s), making decisions and taking actions.
* Our adventure is set in the world of Faerûn from the Forgotten Realms campaign setting. Don't worry if you're not familiar with it - I'll help explain things as we go.

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Welcome, adventurer! Your journey begins in the bustling city of Waterdeep, capital of the Dalelands. You've received a message from a mysterious stranger, asking for your assistance in retrieving a valuable artifact from an ancient ruin deep in the forest.

As you arrive at the city's famous Yawning Portal Inn, you notice a commotion outside. A group of guardsmen are surrounding a man who's shouting something about "the curse of the moonstone" and "the return of the shadow."

The stranger who sent you the message is nowhere to be found, but you overhear the guardsmen discussing the rumors surrounding the moonstone's power. Some say it grants immense magical abilities, while others claim it holds dark and malevolent forces.

What would you like to do?

1. Approach the guardsmen and ask about the moonstone.
2. Head into the Yawning Portal Inn to gather information from patrons.
3. Visit the city's famous market district to see if any rumors or clues can be found.
4. Set out into the forest immediately, following the coordinates provided in your original message.

Choose your response: