Right, so, after reading through everything we'll go through the prologue properly ;D

Opinions on relationships seem a little mixed but generally for some sort of loose preset. 

So how about:
- The main fighting force of the starting town/fort is off raiding a bandit settlement that's been causing trouble. A few guards have been kept back to man the walls, but in the interim the local chamberlain has put together a task group (you guys) to deal with any small disputes, no hard experience necessary. You've probably been at it a few weeks now settling traders disagreements, breaking up tavern brawls and catching the occasional pickpocket when the chamberlain calls you in for dinner with a job. You don't necessarily have to have been local to the town when you originally applied.

This would mean those of you who want to have more meaningful bonds can forge something with willing players and those who want to go in fresh can say they were handling other disagreements. So you would all know of each other (and probably each other's names) but whether you want to be more then passing acquaintances is up to you. 

Alternatively we can go with y'all work as caravan guards. Adventurer's guild also works though perhaps your group hadn't been sent on any big missions yet. Adventurer's guild could be fun because I will expect you to name your outfit ;D