Overview

Iolanthe ‘Io’ Xanthe Level 4 Half-Elf Entertainer Lore Bard Information IC (‘My thoughts are slanted,’ “My words are bold,” and my actions are plain.) 24 Tarkash, Year of Three Ships Sailing, 1492 DR Upper City, Baldur's Gate, Sword Coast The Unfurled Scroll Day of the Devil Bloodbath & Bedlam! Iolanthe is one of those screaming as the shock and horror of blood and viscera exploding all over her and Mishka is followed by hellspawn erupting from the carcass of Duke Portyr. Awaiting ruling from GM on holy water. Movement: — Action: — Bonus Action: — Reaction: — Interact-with-Object: — Concentration: — Spell Descriptions

Name: Hravin Snaefoss | Race/Class: Human Cleric 3 | HP: 24/24 AC: 14 PP: 13 SS1: 4/4 SS2 1/2 "More of the usual branded rhetoric, I see," Hravin muttered, just before the arrow landed, opening a hole in the man's chest large enough for fiends to come through. There was no time for a witty remark. The bubble had literally just burst before his eyes and the tension in this place made it a powder keg. Chaos reigned. And yet, like clockwork, his companions sprang into action, with Hravin pulling every ounce of both Denier and Oghma's blessings to wash over Mishka, Io, Keryn and Leloup. The brief exaustion he felt from the spell casting was no match for the surge of adrenaline. Mishka had already started for the stage and without thinking, Hravin followed, mace ready in one hand while the other primed a glyph in the air in preperation. They were certainly in for show at the Unrolling Scroll. OOC Hravin casts L2 Bless on Mishka, Keryn, Leloup and Io and immediately starts prepping some Word of Radiance action. Action: Cast Bless Bonus: Maces out for Portyr Movement: Follow Mishka, but maintain a wee bit of distance (10 feet would probably be reasonable)

Leloup Neutral Harengon Path of the Beast Barbarian 4 AC: 19 (w/Shield) | HP: 57/57 | Initiative: +5 | Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12 Rage: 2/3 | Rabbit Hop: 2/2 Conditions: Raging | Heroic Inspiration: 1 A flash of movement catches Leloup's attention and he turns to spot the shooter. "Flaming Fists, there!" but his warning comes too late, the arrow is already let loose. Leloup watches with a horrified fascination as the arrow causes the duke to explode into fiends. Did they shrink the fiends down so they could be carried by the arrowhead or were they summoned into the duke's body? He didn't let the intrusive thoughts linger long though; it was time for action. "The shooter came from there," Leloup pointed to the edge of the Wide where he spotted them. "You, stop them! We shall deal with the fiends." Leloup strode forth and began to transform. Muscles swelled, fur bristled, sharp claws sprouted from his paws, and his teeth grew long. He came up to one of the devils from the side and slashed with his claws. OOC Main Hand: Off Hand: Shield Saving Throws: STR +7 DEX +3 CON +6 INT -1 WIS +0 CHA -1 Action: Claws. Bonus Action: Rage. Move: Move to the closest fiend. Manipulate: . Claws once, Claws twice

Keryn Donnathlascen Moon Elf Rogue AC: 16 (Studded Leather) | HP: 31/31 () | HD: 4/4 | Speed: 30 ft. | Initiative: +6 (Dex&Cha) Senses: Passive Perception 12, Insight 14, Investigation 10. Darkvision 60ft. StrSave: +0 Athletics: +4* Carrying Capacity: 150 lb. Lift/Push/Drag: 300 lb.: 10 (+0) | DexInitiative: +4 Save: +6 Acrobatics: +6 Slight-of-Hand: +9 (Gloves of Theivery) Stealth: +6: 18 (+4) | ConSave: +2: 14 (+2) | IntSave: +2 Arcana: 0 History: +2 Investigation: 0 Nature: 0 Religion: 0: 10 (+0) | WisSave: +0 Animal Handling: +0 Insight: +4* Medicine: +0 Perception: +2 Survival: +0: 10 (+0) | ChaSave: +2 Deception: +2 Intimidation: +2 Performance: +2 Persuasion: +4: 14 (+2) Languages: Common, CSL, Elven, Chondathan, Illuskan, Draconic, Thieves' Cant Whilst he lacks respect for the lazy Duke as a person the station is important, and thus Keryn does afford Dillard his attention. Even one sentence in it is unfortunate easy to see where the nickname Dillard the Dullard stems from. The man is far too used to sycophants praising his every word. Still, the message is sound. The Cult is named and exposed, and will not be allowed to root within the Gate, high or low. Then the arrow strikes. Keryn lets out a string of elven curse words most unbecoming, but luckily understood by only a few of the party. Scattered amongst are aspersions on the competency of the Watch and the Fist, as well as the idiocy of humans in general given the swell of panic already rising in the crowd. He shouts to Falburn to get the crowd under control as he vaults forward in the wake of an arcane barrage. Drawing his rapier in a flash of silver he hones in on one of the isolated imps still standing, whispering "Correllon guide my blade," as he strikes. Corellon it seems is listening, and the elf's rapier pierces straight through the Imp's heart, quelling it in an instant. Keryn then falls back into the crowd, attempting to lose himself from the enemy for a moment. Perhaps, at least, the man's death will serve to highlight the threat to any doubters? OOC Action: Booming Blade vs an Imp ; Critical! ; IF Keryn can stand where no-one else is adjacent to Keryn, 26 damage. Else 14. I suspect the movement trigger doesn't matter. Bonus Action: Hide if sufficient movement, otherwise Dash. Movement: Dart up to stage (and exposed imp), then away again. Reaction: Absorb Elements if triggered Object Interaction: - Actions & Resources

Gaerzil | HP 22/22 | AC 16 | Initiative +3 | Passive Perception 11 Spell Slots: 1st: 3/4 | 2nd: 3/3 Active Effects: Mage armor Gaerzil settles in as Duke Portyr begins to speak, knowing from prior experience how dull and uncharismatic the man was. He's genuinely surprised, though, that he has the courage to openly call out the Cult of Zariel, their plans, and even their fiendish leader Gharizol. He didn't expect that sort of chutzpah from the old fop. Unfortunately, it doesn't work out well for him. Gaerzil winces as the arrow thuds into the duke's chest and turns to look for the source. The screams draw his attention back to the stage, however, just in time for him to see an entire bloody squad of lesser devils explode out of Portyr's torso. "Bloody Hells!" he snarls, taken aback for a moment before collecting himself enough to recognize the threat they now face. Well, there's no time to waste. Before anyone can close to melee with the creatures, Gaerzil calls upon his signature spell, mindshatter, aiming to catch as many fiends in the blast radius as he can. OOC Casting mindshatter; that'll be as many DC 14 Con saves as Gaerzil can hit, please. Also, he'll roll a Religion to try and identify our new friends fiends.

Mishka Strakeln (Dwarven Artificer 4) HP: 35/35 | AC: 19 | Passive Perception: 13 Active Effects: NA Spells and Expendables Hardly listening at first, Mishka is pondering Hravin's reversal of the Book Club recommendation, wondering if she might bring up a suggestions of a history of Candlekeep, as Hravin might be able to correct inaccuracies... Or there's always histories of the Sunrise Mountains, Mishka's homelands. Through all of these thoughts, Duke Portyr drones on, right up to the moment that he doesn't, and instead unceremoniously ejects his internal organs all over the dwarf and those aroundh er! Mishka's very first thought is that Hex is going to think that the party killed the Duke-- by inaction, most likely, but the gnome doesn't seem good with causality in these matters. Her shield is in her hand in a moment as she scrambles forward, trying to climb onto the stage and enter the fray! Her right gauntlet glows with a magical sigil meaning Thunder in old Dwarven, Mishka growls at the nearest imp, "Back to hell wit you, monster!" OOC Move: Get on the stage and as close to imps as I can. Uncertain if Action: Highly contingent. Either dashing to reach the foes, or (if I can reach the foes with one move) casting a spell or attacking. Without a map, it's a little unclear what I can do without actively harming a non-hostile NPC, or if I can even reach our foes from where I am. What I would love to do is put myself in the middle of as many imps/Nupperibos as possible and immediately Thunderwave my foes. If and only if that is possible without catching the an innocent in the spray, then here's the damage (DC14 Con saving throw to resist and take half damage. On a failure take full damage and gget pushed 10ft back.): Thunderwave However, if that's not possible, then I get within attacking distance of the closest foe and Thunder-gauntlet that sonofagun: Thundergauntlet Religion:1d20+4 EDIT: Assuming I can Thunderwave, I delay my action until after Kavonde's action. But if he can't do a Mindshatter this round, screw him! He should have acted faster! Nerd! I'm using my Thunder-twin powers!

They fan out around the Unrolled ScrollChanged to the canon answer, because I'm a big dumb dumb; no one is required to change their posts, waiting as everyone else does. There is much to ascertain from the crowd, Hravin picking up it's not just him that's apprehensive. Everyone feels this way, everyone is in on the conspiracy for once. While Keryn tries to get close to the stage, the Watch pushes him back, though a few recognize him. It matters little, he finds out, as they keep him back, but it acts as a good distraction for Gaerzil to disappear into the crowd with Mishka front and center for it all. After what feels like a forever of holding their breaths, a member of the Duke's personal entourage steps out, alongside a priest of Oghma, god of knowledge and whose shrine the Unrolled Scroll acts as. "Hear me, denizens of the Gate: Duke Dillard Portyr will now address you, as his rank and position allows him. Listen, and be cordial, or you shall face punishment and fine by the Flaming Fist." The man who steps out leaves no impression, save he is tall, thinks highly of himself, can afford to apparently, and for once, Dillard Portyr, patriar and Duke of Baldur's Gate, is not wearing his wig. A known drunkard, he is clean-shaven, or was two days hence, his small eyes staring out at a crowd that does not welcome him nor does it shun him. His swagger is that of someone used to meandering drunkardly, but with newfound sobriety. One might mistaken that for swagger, but it has been decades since a canny Dillard Portyr, businessman of some skill but of no political acumen beyond what flattery grants as his opinion, stood beside Adrien Abdel, the old Grand Duke who held the city in relative peace for what was nearly a century, before his true lineage as the Bhaalspawn of the Bhaalspawn Crisis a century ago came to light and Baldur's Gate erupted in a series of murders. Yet if there is one fixture of Baldurian politics that stands for stability, it is Dillard Portyr, and perhaps his absent counterpart Belynne Stelmane, but she is rarely seen even when there isn't a crisis. An awkward pause rings out into the Wide, as if Portyr expected applause. Realizing he is not getting any, he carries on. "What glory, our city: and what glory its future! I stand before you here today at the cusp of yet another crisis, with the same message I have always had: we shall weather this storm as we have always done so. Endurance is at the soul of all Baldurians. Whatever plots are hatched against us, we know better than to cave. And we are armed with knowledge: for I stand before you today, readily appraised by the Flaming Fist and your beloved Watch, with knowledge of those who plot against us. For you see, the forces that claimed Elturel now seek to claim Baldur's Gate: I will not lie to you. Avernus thinks we belong to them. But we know differently!" He gets a response from the crowd, nods at the least but voices and arms outstretched. "But we know more of our enemy than he knows of us. The Cult of Zariel plots against us: they have struck out against citizens of both Upper and Lower City, inner and Outer. Their leader is no less loathsome a being than a devil called Gharizol, so discovered by loyal scions of the Gate, who are no doubt among us now. We are working, day and night, to apprehend this treasonous swine and all those who sully our city with his presence. Today, Duke Thalamra Vanthampur's residence was raided and it was discovered she was in league with—" Looking around, Leloup sees it before anyone else, but cannot stop it. The red light from the shooter's arrow flies with it, a blur of infernal red light before it slams into the chest of Dillard Portyr, not a fatal blow by any means. He staggers, gasps, and stops for a moment, silence filling the area. Until he explodes, sending a red mist of viscera showering all over the gathered souls, Mishka chief among them. Portyr's chest erupts into light and organ, muscle, and bone, leaving his face and neck fine but his entire chest gaping, his arms barely hanging out, his hip broken out of position. Lights leave his eyes immediately: he is no doubt dead. Yet crawling from the cavernous interior of his chest comes not one but three imps and six obese beings of flesh with stitched mouths and eyes, a stench coming off them worse than death. They immediately stare at the crowd and with looks of mirthful glee on their faces, prepare for carnage. The screaming starts. Out of Character Initiative Party13.6666666 Future Initiatives: 16.5, 9 Cult & Devils12 Bystanders0 Enemies Imp 1-AC 13, 21/21 HP, Conditions and AbilitiesDamage Resistance Cold Damage Immunities: Fire, Poison Condition Immunities: Poisoned Imp 2-AC 13, 21/21 HP, Conditions and AbilitiesDamage Resistance Cold Damage Immunities: Fire, Poison Condition Immunities: Poisoned Imp 3-AC 13, 21/21 HP, Conditions and AbilitiesDamage Resistance Cold Damage Immunities: Fire, Poison Condition Immunities: Poisoned Nupperibo 1-AC 13, 11/11 HP, DC 11 Religion to discover more about these fellas Nupperibo 2-AC 13, 11/11 HP, DC 11 Religion to discover more about these fellas Nupperibo 3-AC 13, 11/11 HP, DC 11 Religion to discover more about these fellas Nupperibo 4-AC 13, 11/11 HP, DC 11 Religion to discover more about these fellas Nupperibo 5-AC 13, 11/11 HP, DC 11 Religion to discover more about these fellas Nupperibo 6-AC 13, 11/11 HP, DC 11 Religion to discover more about these fellas Begin Round 1! No map for this section; time to hit the ground running. Leloup sees exactly where it came from, which is near the edge of the Wide in the direction that Chesserie went. Reason to panic? Probably not. Also, @TricksterArcane because you rolled the highest initiative, I need you to roll me a d10. Every round combat continues down the line.

Iolanthe ‘Io’ Xanthe Level 4 Half-Elf Entertainer Lore Bard Information IC (‘My thoughts are slanted,’ “My words are bold,” and my actions are plain.) 24 Tarkash, Year of Three Ships Sailing, 1492 DR Upper City, Baldur's Gate, Sword Coast The Unfurled Scroll Day of the Devil A Danger In These Sages Having garnered a few coins from her busking, but no valuable information about the crowd, Iolanthe eventually packs up and descends from the center stage in the middle of the Wide. The time of Duke Dillard Portyr’s speech was fast approaching, and if she wanted a good seat in the Unfurled Scroll, she’d need to head over there before the crowd filled the place. Iolanthe entered the Unfurled scroll and found a good seat right at the front, nearest to the stage (or as close as the duke’s entourage would allow. Either way, she sat right at the end of the pew (or whatever a pew is called in temple of Oghma) so that she could easily burst into action at a moment’s notice—right across the center aisle from Mishka. Movement: — Action: — Bonus Action: — Reaction: — Interact-with-Object: — Concentration: — Spell Descriptions

Name: Hravin Snaefoss | Race/Class: Human Cleric 3 | HP: 24/24 AC: 14 PP: 13 SS: 3/3 A Danger In These Pages Mishka's question about which book their proposed book club should start with caught him off guard. Even Hravin, steeped in his own paranoia, was able to see when it was getting the best of him. In truth, he was terribly tired, and not just from having been drawn into this whole ordeal after being woken mid-sleep. Shouting, monsters and fire at the inn never saw anyone get out of bed bright eyed and bushy tailed, but it suddenly occurred to him that he had started this journey with high anxiety and had remained in that state ever since. To say the least, he needed a rest. More than a rest, perhaps. A distraction. "Hmm? Oh! Yes, yes," he responded to Mishka, recalling the earlier mention of the idea. He considered for a moment, unable to think of any title other than the one he was looking for. "Hmm. There is a book I am currently looking for, but I do not think we will find it here. I've shook that tree and no fruit falls, as one might say. We call it The Ledger although the proper title is simply the Ledger of J'Kull. It is...not exactly a thrilling read. Nay, it is actually a business ledger, the earnings and investments of one J'Kull, a former bandit of sorts that went and legitimized their operations after some dealings with...well, that doesn't matter. I seek it because it is said to contain a code, a cyphertext that provides clues to prove that the..." a glanced around furtively before continuing, deciding that the denizens of the Wide were too wrapped up in their own affairs to pay him and Mishka any mind. Still, he lowered his voice, just in case. "The code in the book proves that the Keepers of the Old Gates, the ones who set the Whisperers in motion when circumstances are right, they themselves, some of the most respected and powerful in Candlekeep are in violation of the absolute rule; that knowledge must never be destroyed!" Hravin realized he was getting his pulse up again. There was a mission at hand and he must focus. A few breaths and he continued. "Sorry. Do not think it lost on me, how crazy I might sound sometimes, but recent events have only served to reinforce my goal to expose these...these Fiends of Free Thought. I have to remind myself to stay in the present, sometimes." He held himself back, a moment. There was more to say, but there was always more to say, just never enough time to say it, in Hravin's experience. He nodded and cracked a smile, relaxing as much as he could in the moment, chuckling at his own apparent lunacy. "Perhaps it would be better if you suggested a book!" A Danger In These Sages The time drew near, as did the Unfurled Scroll. Lord Portyr would be speaking soon, taking advantage of the acoustic feats the temple is capable of, and since the Cult or other agents did not make any sort of showing in the Wide thus far, Hravin was willing to bet his last copper that they would do so very, very soon. There was a tension in the air, between the politcal upheaval, the arrival of refugees and the fact that the Hells themselves were actually knocking on the front gates of any place thought safe. Hravin realized he was grinding his teeth, clenching and unclenching his jaw as though any moment, another hole could open and swallow even a place as a defensible as Baldur's Gate. Hravin nodded and imparted Oghma's Guidance upon his companions before they parted ways to take up position around the stage. An attack here and now would be so disasterously public, triggering a panic the likes of which the city has never seen, and yet they had only a loose, moon-shot plan to keep things under control. He did not like it one bit, finding little reassurance in the presence of the Watch, the Fists and their presumed allies. This situation was ripe for disruption, and agents of chaos were surely among them. But who? He glances over them, looking for anyone that might be over-anticipating what might be about to happen. Seeing Gaery look for higher ground and Keryn slip around the back, they started to have good coverage. Taking another cue from Mishka, Hravin posted himself near enough to impart some divine might to her if needed, hoping that Io was also close by. To Hravin, time itself was standing still. And yet, there still was not enough time. OOC Oh man, this is tense! Hravin does a crowd scan, looking for anyone who might be as tense as he feels. Casts Guidance on any companions wanting it/allowed by DM. It's a 1 min Concentration thing, so I'm not sure how much time will pass between us taking up position and [unnamed event]. Hravin goes front and center by Mishka, unsure where a better place might be. Action: Bonus: Movement:

Keryn Donnathlascen Moon Elf Rogue AC: 16 (Studded Leather) | HP: 31/31 () | HD: 4/4 | Speed: 30 ft. | Initiative: +6 (Dex&Cha) Senses: Passive Perception 12, Insight 14, Investigation 10. Darkvision 60ft. StrSave: +0 Athletics: +4* Carrying Capacity: 150 lb. Lift/Push/Drag: 300 lb.: 10 (+0) | DexInitiative: +4 Save: +6 Acrobatics: +6 Slight-of-Hand: +9 (Gloves of Theivery) Stealth: +6: 18 (+4) | ConSave: +2: 14 (+2) | IntSave: +2 Arcana: 0 History: +2 Investigation: 0 Nature: 0 Religion: 0: 10 (+0) | WisSave: +0 Animal Handling: +0 Insight: +4* Medicine: +0 Perception: +2 Survival: +0: 10 (+0) | ChaSave: +2 Deception: +2 Intimidation: +2 Performance: +2 Persuasion: +4: 14 (+2) Languages: Common, CSL, Elven, Chondathan, Illuskan, Draconic, Thieves' Cant Visitations Keryn listens carefully to the descriptions of the two celestial beings, noting with interest the similarity the one description bears to the statue of Zariel they saw below. He tries to recall any famous stories about her conflicts that might help identify the other figure, though freely admits that Hravin, Iolanthe and Gaerzil are all more learned than he on this matter in one way or another. Still he shares what thoughts he has, hoping it make spark some recognition and further explanation from them. "No payment necessary," he demurs otherwise, unsure what a displaced, destitute and still brain damaged ex-innkeeper could even offer at this stage. Musings and Harrumphings Keryn rolls his eyes at the salacious behaviour Chesserie displays. No wonder Gaerzil is interested. "Ravenguard was, and perhaps still is, a force of law. Gortash's law extends only as far as it benefits him. Let us hope that that contingent remains a minority." He taps his chin thoughtfully, "though perhaps new blood is an idea worth considering." No prizes for guessing what blood he refers to. Wide Awake Clearly the standard of cultist had improved, thought Keryn, for it was too much to hope that they had all died out. It was definitely easier when they signalled their involvement with black bands and poorly disguised hostility. Gharizol must be taking a firmer hand. He notes the subtle political interactions at play - not that Flame Falburn is subtle in her distaste of the Marshall Portyr - and wonders from whence it springs. Concern of split allegiance? Simple jealousy? Humans could be terribly petty sometimes. With Iolanthe playing her bardic role and Leloup maintaining easy access to both sides, Keryn slips through the crowd like a midnight ship, rounding the back of the stage. From there he stalks towards the tents, flaunting his status as a local Courtier. Whilst the Fist are understandably reluctant to grant him entry he tries his best to intuit who, exactly will be giving the speech and more importantly who it might be pleasing or upsetting. Besides, assassins stab people in the back for a reason, so what better place to guard? If he was wrong it would be child's play to vault over the stage and join the melee. OOC Action: - Bonus Action: — Movement: - Reaction: Absorb Elements if triggered Object Interaction: - Actions & Resources

Mishka Strakeln (Dwarven Artificer 4) HP: 35/35 | AC: 19 | Passive Perception: 13 Active Effects: NA Spells and Expendables It is not too surprising that people in an open marketplace are not advertising an allegiance with a cult of devils. Mishka shrugs at the failure, accepting it as a part of life. But she does keep a keen eye out for any other signs that are more subtle. As the time comes for Portyr's speech, Mishka sees no reason to not be near the front and center for best listening and observation. Particularly if someone has ill wishes on the man. OOC Positioning: approximately front and center. Generally somewhere near the stage. Religion Initatives

Gaerzil | HP 22/22 | AC 16 | Initiative +3 | Passive Perception 11 Spell Slots: 1st: 3/4 | 2nd: 3/3 Active Effects: Mage armor Gaerzil looks for high ground, wanting a clean line of sight for his spells in case (or, perhaps, in the inevitable eventuality) that violence breaks out. He looks for anything near the stage he can use: stacked crates, a ladder up to a roof, and so on, and he flashes his badge to anyone who questions his positioning. Once he's able to find an adequate position, he makes himself as unobtrusive and concealed as possible while still able to keep an eye on the stage and hunkers down to wait.

Leloup Neutral Harengon Path of the Beast Barbarian 4 AC: 19 (w/Shield) | HP: 57/57 | Initiative: +5 | Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12 Rage: 3/3 | Rabbit Hop: 2/2 Conditions: none| Heroic Inspiration: 1 Leloup takes up a position to guard the proceedings, a role he is very accustomed to. Despite his vertical disadvantage, he manages to keep sight of the elves, Keryn and Iolanthe. OOC Main Hand: Off Hand: Shield Saving Throws: STR +7 DEX +3 CON +6 INT -1 WIS +0 CHA -1 Action: . Bonus Action: . Move: . Manipulate: . Putting Leloup as close to the stage as permitted and keeping 30' from Keryn and Iolanthe on either side. Perception to watch for trouble. Initiative

Madame Margrieut's Madness What they find is a pathetic shade of a woman, muttering to herself, unamusing, regretful of nothing but aware of perhaps less: she is a broken thing that Hravin and Gaerzil do not deem worthy of their attention or cruelty. The same cannot be said for Iolanthe, who dives into her mind. What she finds is just as bad as the exterior: the woman wandering the streets, muttering to herself and occasionally screaming at people, has a hard time with coherent thought. Everything is about how things have been done to her, how harm has befallen her at the hands of others, and how when her ship comes in, when her cards get turned, everything will be set right: she just needs her moment, her minute, her chance. The nightmares therein, the things she has done, are terrible. She has sold children into slavery in the Shining South or even in Amn; she has handled people over to the Guild for killing, and she has taken part herself in torture; she has stolen from the hungry, the sick, the needy; she is an objectively terrible person. So when the nightmares begin, when the spectral images begin to haunt her, it is no surprise that her reaction is swift and extreme. "I didn't do nothin' to you! I didn't! I'm... stay back! I—!" Leaving her to her madness, Iolanthe is incredibly satisfied in the final broken state she has created in Madame Margrieut: she shall trouble the children of Baldur's Gate no more. Segren's Visitations Awake now, Segren looks at everyone, happy to see Hravin but recognizing no one else; and how would Iolanthe know that? "I... no, miss, I can't say I have met him. Or anyone here but Hravin, my wife... I see Wellum and a few of the others.... who are you lot?" Hravin fortunately is a good anchor, alongside his crying wife who cannot stop herself but for her happiness. When asked to think about it, Segren does so, his brow furrowing and his concentration deepening. He winces, and closes his eyes, causing Vasha to speak up for him. "His thoughts aren't quite clear yet, so I think—" He shakes his head. "I can talk about this. I'm just trying to find the words. Two angels, two beings... one was... bald, had a peaceful but stone-cut face, wrapped in light, carrying a flaming sword.... green skin? Golden eyes? And the other... angelic, beautiful, wonderful with... animal legs. Also carried a sword. They spoke but I never understood them... Or I don't remember what they said. I'm not sure. It hurts to remember, but it was real. I think." Certainly something to distract Hravin with beyond the Grand Whisper... unless this is connected. Segren takes in the news from everyone with a careful, slow regard, his eyes never meeting any faces as he thinks, absorbs, ponders. With the telling of his friend Marcus Hallgate's death, he winces again, and tears fall from his eyes: but he does not cry, beyond that. "Marcus.... he sent me that letter. I... I hate that for him. He was the last of my kin." All in all, he is taken aback by it all. "Everything's gone to the Hells in a handbasket, quite literally huh? Well, I can't thank you lot enough. My wife is a natural leader but she doesn't have a violent bone in her body. Having you lot to defend her from cultists and devils is more than I could have asked for, even without this damn horse kick to the head. I cannot repay you, but I'll find a way how." And he means it. Chesserie's Musings and Hex's Harrumphing Smitten as he is, Gaerzil thinks he is subtle: yet no one can deny that Chesserie clearly knows Gaerzil has it out for her, but her reaction is something else. Does she find it funny? Does she like the attention? Does she have similar feelings for the tiefling? In conversation, she is ever playful, undeniably flirty, but that's true of everyone. At the mention of Gortash, she shrugs. "Much as I hate to say it, there's a contingent who thinks the Gate needs a strong hand with a mind for control and domination, even if it comes with a little perversion and deviant behavior. I'm not among them, mind, though I do like my perversions plenty," she winks at Keryn and Gaerzil both at this, "but they say Gortash might not be worse than Ravengard was, and maybe even better. And he has these new mechanical wonders, like Gondite magic or some such. All smells bad to me, like some kind of absolute conspiracy." To the mention of the rumors of Gortash, Hex laughs. "It'll be a bright day in the Hells when Gortash is let back in. I'll eat my hat if that happens, but I'm more likely to eat yours. What we need is a stabilizing hand that won't skin us alive at the same time, which is why I agreed to hand you over to Flame Falburn and her ilk. So I suggest if you want to keep working with them and see this through, make things a little more sane, if you can. Or you'll be thrown to the Hells with all the rest, I think. And some of you may not like that as much as you think," he says, his eyes shifting to and then never leaving Mishka. When Gaerzil goes out and invites Chesserie, when she can she attends, and makes no point to invite anyone else. Yet she remains at arm's length throughout: and Gaerzil is none the wiser to how obvious he's being, even to his mentor who sighs loudly any time the two are together. The Wide floods with people as time goes on. Soon, Chesserie is called away, and not long after, Gaerzil trips over a vendor's goods. She laughs, losing it, and helps clean up immediately. "Yeah, definitely illegal," she says, giving a knowing wink to the vendor who mutters to himself about some kind of birds and horned types. She hands him a coin to make up for the trouble and Chesserie hits Gaerzil with her hip. "Try not to run over anymore vendors, eh? Make my job easier, if you can." And with that, the oblivious tiefling is left to plot with his companions as the Wide fills with people, coming to hear the Duke speak. The plan is easy enough: be close enough to see one another, but listening for hints that the cult is here and ready to act. They spread out, moving between vendors and sections together, and Mishka immediately puts her ear to the ground, so to speak, and hears the nerves in everyone's speech. Vendors are here to make a coin, but many are worried: their businesses are up in the air if the political situation in the Gate does not calm down, and many of their clients might flee for Beregost or go to some other city... but where is safe right now? More than a few times when the dwarf speaks up, she finds people giving their own conspiracies, their own thoughts, their own fears, and it is a lot to take in. But none of it relates to Gharizol and the Cult of Zariel: that never comes up, and no one betrays even a passing membership to that dread organization. If there is a center to the storm, and everyone is aware of this, Hravin knows it is the Unrolled Scroll: for it is here that Lord Portyr will give his speech. A small tent has been erected next to it, likely already with the nobleman in it, and surrounding it are the Flaming Fist, the Watch, and a few guards bearing the symbol of House Portyr. Among these is an older woman, dressed in armor that looks like she is a commanding general: she must be Portyr's cousin, the Marshal of the Flaming Fist; Flame Falburn is present at her side, occasionally speaking to her with what looks like a casual distaste. Soon, the speech will begin: how are they going to position themselves? Out of Character Alright, a few things: Roll like Mishka did, I would think; and tell me the general area of where you are in relation to the Scroll's stage; this is important Give me 3 initiative rolls. Like I said, this chapter goes fast. This is a third bullet point

Seen and noted.

Adding 1 Gloves of Thievery; Wondrous item, uncommon; Major tier; These gloves are invisible while worn. While wearing them, you gain a +5 bonus to Dexterity (Sleight of Hand) checks and Dexterity checks made to pick locks.; Found On: Magic Item Table F; Source: DMG‘14, page 172; Earned: at the end of Chapter III. to her inventory.

Mishka Strakeln (Dwarven Artificer 4) HP: 35/35 | AC: 19 | Passive Perception: 13 Active Effects: NA Spells and Expendables In the Interim Mishka found the appeal of the trip to see Eryn's former mistress, Madame Margrieut, unappealing and frankly less important than being sure the girl was taken care of. There had been enough bloody justice, and the others were more than capable of handling things. It was much more important to take care of Dara. Mishka first takes her to her apartment to let her get cleaned up and dressed, and makes sure that she is fed. Once the girl has had time to rest, Mishka lets her think about whether she would like to go and meet or stay with Dara of Illmater, with the understanding that she can always change her mind. Whatever she chooses, she can always return to Mishka's apartment, if the elf wants to. Mishka spends much of the three days working in Hecktoheironymous Halfsbottle's workshop. After all, she needs to earn her keep in her apprenticeship somehow, even fi she finds her mentor distasteful. And her less than stellar behavior over the last week was drawing attention. She finds that her skill with alchemist tools and masonry tools is deteriorating, and her exhaustion leads to her being a poor driver-- almost as if the very rules of the universe had been rewritten. But priase Moradin, her skill with smithing tools was as strong as ever, so she could still get some things done. Mishka feels guilty about her work taking away for caring for the Caravan's refugees, though, and in the evening she spends some time buying up large amounts of meager meals to distribute among the caravan. If Eryn seeks activity or companionship, Mishka happily brings her along. The days are long, and Mishka returns tired to her apartment each night. Her exhaustion is not made better by Hex' comments on Elturel. Before she has time to think through her words, she says, "Borzhe Moy! We will need to dispatch someone to tell the people of Elturel of deir political troubles, yes?" She knew that it would do her no favors in the workshop, and regretted saying it as soon as the words left her lips. But what was done was done. When the group had left his presence, though, and Io pulled Mishka and Keryn aside, Mishka let out a breath that she hadn't realized she had been holding. Kaeryn's comment about meaning well, though, gets a grumble from Mishka. "Roads to de hells can be paved wit good intentions, no? Yes, Io, I agree. I hef been... shamed that I am working for him. He is a master of his craft in de workshop, but I tink dat when eet comes to de Lord's Alliance, he has hees sleeves pulled down, yes? Focused on de wrong tings, and not helping de people he needs to." Of course, Mishka was not socially aware enough to notice the eavesdroppers until the keen-eyed Kaeryn pointed them out. Surely they wouldn't talk to hex about insubordination, right? In The Wide Mishka was quite happy to see Cheserie Warden established as a liaison to the caravan, though Mishka certainly thought that it was a bit slow in coming. Still, the fact that the guard seemed to prioritize the caravan did bring warmth to Mishka's heart. She nearly strained herself trying to not accidentally say "one of the good ones" about the cop. Particularly in front of Gaerzil with his obvious infatuation. When she departs, Mishka simply says "Be well, my friend," in farewell, trying her best not to mess with Gaerzil's smooth and suave demeanor. Hravin's comments did worry Mishka that the last several days may have been more stressful for him than any had realized. As the group was getting ready to get to work, she did comment to him, "Hravin, we hef talked for weeks about reading de same book and discussing it, someting like a Book Guild. I tink we should do less talking and more doing. Wat book should we read first?" At the very least, Hravin seemed to need a friend at the moment. And, with any luck, he might suggest a book that gave Mishka some notion of what he meant by these "Whispers." As the party begins moving about, Mishka clumisly tries to observe and talk with folks about what is going on in the market today, watching people as they pass by. Mishka has little she feels she needs to buy, so endears herself to no merchants in her endeavors. Once she even tries to join a haggling group on the side of the buyer of a magical item, using her arcane knowledge and ability to point out some of the obvious but unstated flaws in the item. No one is happy with this intrusion. Io's music gives her a wonderful distraction to any embarassment she causes herself, though. OOC Spending 5GP to make sure that Eryn is well fed, clothed, and cared for. Additionally, spending 30 gp to buy 500 person-days worth of meals (6cp per poor meal) to distribute to the refugees. For downtime, I believe I can't do anything with 3 days, so I just hang on to that? But if I am wrong then she spends that time working with Smithing tools (Intelligence) to earn money. Smithing tools working In the market, making a general insight check as I look about to notice any odd behaviors and a persuasion check as a general bit of information gathering. Insight check Persuasion Check Arcana to be a little shit

2024 Rebuild Race: Dwarf Humanoid, Medium, 30ft speed, 120ft darkvision Lineage: None Dwarven Resilience Dwarven Toughness (+1hp/level!) Stonecunning (damn, yo) Languages: Common, Dwarven, Gnome Background: Rune Carver (Legacy), no relevant changes. Class: Artificer (Legacy), no relevant changes. Subclass: Armorer (Legacy), no relevant changes Losses: Tool Proficiency: Alchemist's Supplies, Mason's tools, land vehicles. (I had additional proficiencies because I had swapped out Dwarven Armor Training for proficiencies via Tasha's Cauldron of Everything rules. Lost armor training, so lost 2 proficiencies there. Lost the other one because Dwarves lost the tool proficiency feature.) Dwarven Combat Training: battleaxe, handaxe, light hammer, and warhammer Tool Proficiency. LEVEL 4 IMPROVEMENTS Artificer: Ability Score Improvement (+2 Intelligence). No additional cantrips, spell slots, infusions, etc. Rune Carver: Swapped out Entangle for Burning Hands (allowed to change at each level up).

I will edit the above for level 4 as soon as I find the time and motivation to do the update.

Mishka Strakeln (Dwarven Artificer 4) HP: 35/35 | AC: 19 | Passive Perception: 13 Active Effects: NA Spells and Expendables OOC

Keryn Donnathlascen Moon Elf Rogue AC: 16 (Studded Leather) | HP: 31/31 () | HD: 4/4 | Speed: 30 ft. | Initiative: +6 (Dex&Cha) Senses: Passive Perception 12, Insight 14, Investigation 10. Darkvision 60ft. StrSave: +0 Athletics: +4* Carrying Capacity: 150 lb. Lift/Push/Drag: 300 lb.: 10 (+0) | DexInitiative: +4 Save: +6 Acrobatics: +6 Slight-of-Hand: +9 (Gloves of Theivery) Stealth: +6: 18 (+4) | ConSave: +2: 14 (+2) | IntSave: +2 Arcana: 0 History: +2 Investigation: 0 Nature: 0 Religion: 0: 10 (+0) | WisSave: +0 Animal Handling: +0 Insight: +4* Medicine: +0 Perception: +2 Survival: +0: 10 (+0) | ChaSave: +2 Deception: +2 Intimidation: +2 Performance: +2 Persuasion: +4: 14 (+2) Languages: Common, CSL, Elven, Chondathan, Illuskan, Draconic, Thieves' Cant Relative Peace In the aftermath of the cultists Keryn tries to return to routine and normality - rising at Godswake to perform his calisthenics in silence, before moving on to sword forms. Newly worked in was a variety of lock-picking exercises following their recent experience - not only did it improve his dexterity he had found a benefit to his spell casting as well. He felt he was close to mastering a second art blade technique, occasional slivers of green flame running along his blade. Alas, it seemed if he wanted to keep his perfect diction and action something would need to be sacrificed. As much as he enjoyed the convenience of using magic for everyday mundanities it was probably just a crutch. He would have asked the apprentice tiefling for advice given Gaerzil's rapid growth, but both pride and the boys latest infatuation preventing him having the time. He'd even noticed the lustful youngster improving his handwriting, no doubt planning some poor attempt at poetry. He does invite Leloup to stay at his accommodation again rather than slumming it in the caravan, though obviously the guard situation somewhat places the harengon in a bind. The news of another lord falling is distressing, a sign of falling order. However when Gortash is suggested his face expresses open disgust. "Surely not. A little more instability before reestablishing order is preferable to inviting disorder directly into your house. He is exactly what we are trying to prevent." Meeting with Hex, he makes his feelings on this matter known. "Don't worry about us, we are more than capable of looking after ourselves. The sooner this filth is rooted out the better. I'm not sure we've killed any Lord's yet, but if the rumours of Gortash being invited to return are true then perhaps that will change!" His growing discontent is clear as his words become increasingly clipped; by the end each would serve as the very guillotine he threatens. He lets out a deliberate sigh to hear of the withdrawal of Elturel's proposed status, after all solidifying their membership was why he had travelled to the city in the first place. "Disappointing news of Elturel, surely now of all times is when we should be drawing together to raise the nation up the right way lest further ill-advised pacts are made. Yet understandable - some of the council are very shortsighted." Outside the mans office he listens to Io's less-than-discreet rant, trying subtly to direct the bard to somewhere they are less likely overheard. "I understand your frustration entirely, though I do think he means well. Certainly the Flaming Fist has shown themselves not fit for purpose. You have to remember of course they always were founded as a mercenary force rather than a police force, and therefore are largely composed of mercurial individuals. With Ravengard gone, I think their true nature has just bubbled to the surface again. Perhaps with someone like Foremantle in charge they could turn it around - after, of course, cleaning house as you suggested." He gestures to some surrounding folk eavesdropping on good gossip. "Need to keep a somewhat united front for the common folk though." When Segren awakes it is a pleasant piece of good news amongst the bad, though clearly he had sustained some brain damage. Keryn lets those members better suited to such healing sort it out, offering up only the amulet they had recovered bad when leaving Elturel. He would have given it to Gwen had he been able to find her, but he supposes his very inability demonstrates her lack of need. "You may have heard, Segren, that descendants of hellriders are being targeted - including your very brother. This amulet is by no means a universal talisman, but it may offer some protection against being found." For his part he has a new pair of gloves, not that anyone would know. He searches too for Ghorrin, after all the initial disappearances had not been thought linked, though for Clyde he suspects a stew pot somewhere. The Wide It is easy to lose oneself in the bustle of the market, and Keryn makes sure to complete a few purchases whilst there - very few other markets meet his standards. A particularly fine silk rope finds its way around his shoulder - spun, apparently better than that of the Drow. He wasn't quite sure that was the boast the merchant seemed to think it was. Hravin's slightly odd whisperings and look does draw an askance eye, but he's not sure who knows him best to check up. Just as long as it doesn't affect the mans work he supposes. "Let's focus on one thing at a time perhaps, the Cult seems the immediate threat," he suggests to the kaleidoscopic cleric. "There's plenty to cause a panic here, and we all know a crowd of humans is like a herd of cows. Staying within eyesight of each other is a good idea. " OOC Action: - Bonus Action: — Movement: - Reaction: Absorb Elements if triggered Object Interaction: - Actions & Resources

Iolanthe ‘Io’ Xanthe Level 4 Half-Elf Entertainer Lore Bard Information IC (‘My thoughts are slanted,’ “My words are bold,” and my actions are plain.) DATE Location, Baldur’s Gate, Sword Coast Level 4: Ability Score Improvement. You gain the Ability Score Improvement feat or another feat of your choice for which you qualify. You gain this feature again at Bard levels 8, 12, and 16. (Charisma) HP: 3d8 + 3 = (8 + 5 + 5 + 3) = 21 → 4d8 + 4 = (8 + 5 + 5 + 5 + 4) = 27 I realized that Bards already have the mending cantrip on their list, but I needed a proper damage cantrip, so changed it out for toll the dead. Movement: — Action: — Bonus Action: — Reaction: — Interact-with-Object: — Concentration: —

Iolanthe ‘Io’ Xanthe Level 4 Half-Elf Entertainer Lore Bard Information IC (‘My thoughts are slanted,’ “My words are bold,” and my actions are plain.) 24 Tarkash, Year of Three Ships Sailing, 1492 DR Upper City, Baldur's Gate, Sword Coast The Wide Day of the Devil Downtime Iolanthe sells her rapier, which she woke up suddenly not proficient with! She gets 12 gp and 5 sp from it. Each day, she writes songs. Madame Margrieut After hearing what Eryn had said this woman had committed—if even a tenth of it were true, Iolanthe would have probably gutted the woman. But then again, that would be too good for her. Sometime, in the late evening, a rotund, seemingly drunk dwarf, about 4′–3″, with black hair and an unkempt black beard, dressed in a nondescript, simple black robe with a fleece trim, walks up to the orphanage caretaker turned homeless beggar. He looks down at the un-pitiable pile of pestilence and grabs holds up a simple copper coin and moves it in an arcane pattern. The darkness helps disguise what would have already been easily mistaken for a drunk having trouble even hold up the meager donation. “هل لديك فلس مقابل أفكارك؟”Hal ladayk fils muqabil ‘afkarika? The incantation for her detect thoughts spell, which basically translates as “Penny for your thoughts?”. Suddenly and ruthlessly, he rips into the woman’s mind with the detect thoughts spell, right down into the brain stem. When she tries to resist, he pulls out a bag of thirty silver coins and violently slings them into her face with a gruff, but hissed, “Fine! You can have the rest! All 30 pieces of it!” Hopefully, this imposes disadvantage on her wisdom saving throw. For a full minute, the nondescript dwarf roots around the woman’s mind, finding every delicious little nugget, forcing the woman to watch in her own head as her deepest, darkest secrets are laid bare to him—forcing her to relive thousands of hours of misdeeds she’d perpetrated in the span of a mere 54 seconds. He looks especially for loved ones that the woman cherishes. Having gotten what he came for, the dwarf leans down and whispers into her ear: “Those with power have a duty and responsibility to oversee the health, safety, and welfare of their charges, be they kings, dukes, mayors, teachers, parents, or orphanage caretakers. Therefore, the punishment they receive for their abuse of power and failure to protect and care for their subjects must be, by necessity, not merely 10, 100, or 1,000-fold, but uncountably magnified. Suffer in the nine hells, abuser of innocent children, and taint our hollowed mortal coil with your filth no longer!” He walks away and pulls his fleece trimmed robe tighter and effects a shiver. Looking back at the woman, he says, “!أعاني من كابوس خيالي”‘Ueani min kabus khayali! The incantation for her phantasmal force spell, which basically translates as “Suffer from a phantasmal nightmare!”., with a final arcane gesture hidden beneath his robe, he casts the phantasmal force spell on the woman. The spell takes the form of the most beloved and cherished people in her life perpetrating all those same misdeeds upon her that she caused to be perpetrated on the orphans in her care. All the while, to any watching, it merely appears as if the woman is miming being abused by invisible entities, writhing in the misery and her face is stuck in a rictus of horrified, ultimate betrayal. Iolanthe returns to her hotel just in time for supper and to start her set to earn her keep. She quite happily looks at herself in the mirror as she applies her makeup for her performance, and later that night sleeps like a baby. Sergen Hall Iolanthe hadn’t met the man, and didn’t really know who he was beyond what had already been explained to her, so she elected to stay in the background. “Nice to make your acquaintance, Mr. Hall. I’m Cloak Iolanthe Xanthe of the Lords’ Alliance,” she introduced herself. “I’m currently working with Cloak Donnathlascen, here. I believe you might know him? And quite fortunately for you, you are not in fact ‘dead’. I’ll let you get settled, but I’m afraid that we’ve got some bad news for you . . .” Hecktoheironimous "Hex" Halfsbottle Iolanthe is livid almost to the point of throttling this little puke. She settles for glaring contemptuously down her nose at him with a passive Intimidation of 18. After leaving, she turned to Keryn and Mishka. “In the last several days, I have accidentally sneezed his ‘as difficult as possible’ on multiple occasions, and that was just me. You two have as well—perhaps you, Cloak Donnathlascen even more than Mishka or me!” “He has literally admitted to being compromised by someone who I’m not entirely convinced isn’t a cultist, and thus, he is no longer an asset the Lords’ Alliance can rely upon. He’s going to have to be replaced with someone competent. To think that he would allow a rebellious police force absolutely festering to the back teeth with pestilent cultists to have him ‘over a barrel’! Absolutely disgusting. When all this is finished, the Flaming Fist should be made to decimate, old Najara-style, for this insolence and foolishness!” Into the Wide “I can keep a good eye on the crowd by performing in the center,” Iolanthe offers. With that, she unslings her guitar and heads to the center to start ‘busking’. Movement: — Action: meeting Madame Margrieut: casting the detect thoughts and phantasmal force spells on her—she takes 2d8 × 10 rounds = 20d8 psychic damage Bonus Action: — Reaction: — Interact-with-Object: — Concentration: — Detect ThoughtsLevel 2 Divination Casting Time: Action Range: Self Components: V, S, M (1 Copper Piece) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute You activate one of the effects below. Until the spell ends, you can activate either effect as a Magic action on your later turns. Sense Thoughts. You sense the presence of thoughts within 30 feet of yourself that belong to creatures that know languages or are telepathic. You don’t read the thoughts, but you know that a thinking creature is present. The spell is blocked by 1 foot of stone, dirt, or wood; 1 inch of metal; or a thin sheet of lead. Read Thoughts. Target one creature you can see within 30 feet of yourself or one creature within 30 feet of yourself that you detected with the Sense Thoughts option. You learn what is most on the target’s mind right now. If the target doesn’t know any languages and isn’t telepathic, you learn nothing. As a Magic action on your next turn, you can try to probe deeper into the target’s mind. If you probe deeper, the target makes a Wisdom saving throw. On a failed save, you discern the target’s reasoning, emotions, and something that looms large in its mind (such as a worry, love, or hate). On a successful save, the spell ends. Either way, the target knows that you are probing into its mind, and until you shift your attention away from the target’s mind, the target can take an action on its turn to make an Intelligence (Arcana) check against your spell save DC, ending the spell on a success. (Ilmater, himself, personally comes down and doesn’t just force her to fail these checks, but actually prevents her from making these checks in the first place. She can only sit there and suffer the effects of the spell.) Classes: Bard, Sorcerer, Wizard Subclasses: Aberrant Sorcerer, Arcane Trickster Rogue, Arcane Trickster Rogue, Lore Bard, Eldritch Knight Fighter, Eldritch Knight Fighter, Great Old One Warlock Feats: Adept of the White Robes, Telepathic Source: PHB‘24, page 262. Available in the Free Rules (2024). Phantasmal ForceLevel 2 Illusion Casting Time: Action Range: 60 feet Components: V, S, M (a bit of fleece) Duration: Concentration, up to 1 minute You attempt to craft an illusion in the mind of a creature you can see within range. The target makes an Intelligence saving throw. On a failed save, you create a phantasmal object, creature, or other phenomenon that is no larger than a 10-foot Cube and that is perceivable only to the target for the duration. The phantasm includes sound, temperature, and other stimuli. The target can take a Study action to examine the phantasm with an Intelligence (Investigation) check against your spell save DC. If the check succeeds, the target realizes that the phantasm is an illusion, and the spell ends. (Ilmater, himself, personally comes down and doesn’t just force her to fail these checks, but actually prevents her from making these checks in the first place. She can only sit there and suffer the effects of the spell.) While affected by the spell, the target treats the phantasm as if it were real and rationalizes any illogical outcomes from interacting with it. For example, if the target steps through a phantasmal bridge and survives the fall, it believes the bridge exists and something else caused it to fall. An affected target can even take damage from the illusion if the phantasm represents a dangerous creature or hazard. On each of your turns, such a phantasm can deal 2d8 Psychic damage to the target if it is in the phantasm’s area or within 5 feet of the phantasm. The target perceives the damage as a type appropriate to the illusion. Classes: Bard, Sorcerer, Wizard Subclasses: Arcane Trickster Rogue, Arcane Trickster Rogue, Archfey Warlock, Lore Bard, Eldritch Knight Fighter, Eldritch Knight Fighter, Great Old One Warlock Feats: Adept of the Red Robes Source: PHB‘24, page 304

Leloup Neutral Harengon Path of the Beast Barbarian 4 AC: 19 (w/Shield) | HP: 57/57 | Initiative: +5 | Passive Perception: 12 | Passive Insight: 12 Rage: 3/3 | Rabbit Hop: 2/2 Conditions: none| Heroic Inspiration: 1 Upon learning that cultists might target the caravan and refugees, Leloup felt a sense of duty to protect them. As some of their group set out to seek justice for the orphaned elf, Leloup remained with Dara and politely questioned the circumstances about Segren. Leloup felt torn when the call to the Upper City came. He knew obeying orders was crucial, yet it struck him as incredibly myopic to expose the caravan's refugees to such risk. Learning that the Gauntlet Warden echoed his concerns brought him some comfort. "We are at a clear disadvantage in this situation. I think the idea is sound to spread out to cover more area but let us remain within sight of each other." OOC Main Hand: Off Hand: Shield Saving Throws: STR +7 DEX +3 CON +6 INT -1 WIS +0 CHA -1 Action: . Bonus Action: . Move: . Manipulate: . Suggesting we keep within 30' of each other.

Name: Hravin Snaefoss | Race/Class: Human Cleric 3 | HP: 24/24 AC: 14 PP: 13 SS: 3/3 The Sleeper Awakens "Not quite, friend," Hravin replied to Segren's question about whether or not he is dead, "at least let's hope Baldur's Gate is not a spiritual plane. No, you have survived the ordeal, much credit to Vasha, of course. Suffice to say, things have happened." At that, Hravin does his best to relay events since they had last met, though more broad strokes than anything. The poor man seemed in no condition for minute details and windy words. "Tell me, Segren, these Angels and Celestials, have they said anything? Can you describe them?" To Vasha and Dara, "you are both fairing well, I trust? Do you need anything whilst this hellstorm stills, for a moment?" Oghma, let these people catch a breath, he thought. He wondered unexpectly if they would see Grug again, finding that he missed the big guy. The Damned and Madame Hravin didn't say a word, but he knew he and Gaerzil were having the same thoughts as the found the woman, herself a broken echo of the monster she once was. There was no vengeance to be had here, no justice to be served, no wrongs to right with words or bloodshed. It is rare, but the world sometimes cleaned up its own excrement. As they walked on, Hravin took in the city, again. There was a certain humor in the fact that he had so recently decided to leave the city and never look back, only to end up returning shortly after. It was as though there were some invisible teather that lashed out, tying each person to their respective time and place, only to leave them spending their lives either tryng to break free from a past they never earned or embracing the prison they were born to. Whatever humor lie in that was lost on Hravin. He felt tired, like the damned Madame. Though his deeds were far from the heinous mistreatment of children, they were no less taxing on his mind, body and soul. Even now, there was a slimy whisper in his mind, alerting him to a shadow out of place or a hat pulled too low to be doing anything other than obfuscating its wearer's face. It told not of real, tangible things, but instead the possibility that anyone he passed could be an agent, a deep actor in the service of the shadow cabal within Candlekeep. It was, of course, very near physically, but it also had a certain psychic proximity, pushing deep into his thoughts. How was he to ignore the fact that everything was under their influence when everything was under their influence? Anxiety heightened, he quickened his pace. A rest was needed. Badly. Perhaps there trip to the Wide soon would allow for time to clear his mind at the Unrolling Scroll. Into the Wide Hravin was always a little on edge in the Wide. The crowds moved in almost chaotic fashion, stalls erected anywhere a free space would allow, even the air was thick with the cacaphony of voices hawking and haggling. Part of him wanted to look for old pamphlets or hard-to-find texts that might provide just the clues he needed to expose the inner workings of The Grand Whisper. As they passed through, his companions may hear him discretely ask of a book by the name of the Ledger of J'Kull, although much like Gaerzil and his gushing, Hravin was not always as discrete as he thought...especially when his pulse quickened at the thought of bringing down The Whisperers. Gaerzil's question bubbled to the top of Hravin's thoughts. "The Cult could be anywhere...but so could they," a strange emphasis on the last word as though anyone would know who he might be talking about, "still, the best hiding place is in plane sight. I say we canvas, but within earshot of each other. Perhaps we can find more information on Vanthampur, who is certainly not dead, I can sense it. No, based on my rare and limited moment sharing a room with her, death is simply not something she would allow." He paused, gathering his thoughts. "And besides, I have it on good authority that she is definitely a Whisperer." Hravin's slightly wild eyes do not blink as he nods to assure the rest of the group. OOC Okay! Hravin wants to hear about the visions/visitations Segren is experiencing, and any clues that might be contained within. He's getting a bit more paranoid, but for now, helpful to know the following if anyone wants to RP into it: - He's starting to think they're being followed...which yeah, I mean, they probably are. But more than usual. - Hravin calls his big theory "The Grand Whisper," which is basically a web of connections between certain major players, all leading back to specific individuals at Candlekeep that control information in such a powerful way that it literally influences everything from major historical events down to what people buy when they go get groceries. It is vast, tangled, and most certainly half-baked. But some of it is true. I think. Also, feat = Healer. I forgot to add that and finally got to it, so I'll work on his bedside manner, but as we move forward and things get tougher, he is happy to step up as combat medic. He would like to buy a Scroll of Protection From Fiends, please. Action: Bonus: Movement: