This is a group of adventurers that would work well as a competitive group of NPCs to act as foils, allies, or mentors for a PC party. They are a cohesive group that are very good in a particular combat niche (undead slaying), but they are well-suited to be active in social settings.
Some of the names and backgrounds, as well as a few rules quirks, are specific to a home-brew campaign. Feel free to modify them to suit your own.
The Dawn Bringers are an adventuring band of close companions from the land of Turmay. They have achieved widespread fame and fortune in their homeland, and their fame has spread to nearby countries, as well. Their greatest success was in rescuing the heir to one of Turmay's most powerful noble houses from the clutches of an ancient vampire lord, Saddat. They now work for the Crown Prince of Turmay, his eminent Prince Halcyon.
The group came to Talnorak escorting a diplomat to Rushington, Dremus Forester. The diplomat was to negotiate with Duke Blackthorne for a military treaty between Turmay and Talnorak against Proskur for the upcoming spring campaign, and to discuss the mysterious failing of the priesthoods. When they arrived at Rushington, they found it was in a state of chaos. Mobs ruled the streets, and serpent men lurked in the alleys. After some undercover investigations, they discovered that the Duke had led some refugees into the mountains. They followed the trail until they arrived here, only to discover that the Duke had marched to war nearly a week before. They have spent several days here learning about what has been happening in Talnorak and trying to decide on their next course of action.
The spokesman and leader of the Dawn Bringers is Loranthir, a renowned priest of Tyara, unusual in that he is one of the few males in the priesthood.
Loranthir, Elf, Cleric 13 (Tyara), male
Sirelanon, 1/2 Elf, Wizard 12, male
Gwenaeli, Human, Sorcerer 6/Fighter 4/Eldritch Knight 3, female
Lurg Mondos, 1/2 Orc, Fighter 12, male
Mia, 1/2 elf, Ranger 9/Rogue 3, female