Forum roleplay: Red Larch

Through Eddie I heard that we've got permission from Ben to start up a thread for idle banter (In Character) and such to get to know eachother's characters outside the sessions a little more. Not only will this improve people's understanding of characters and who plays them, it will also hopefully result into interesting dynamics that can be brought into the actual sessions. However, I think it's logical to say that you can't start an all-out fight (so if you start an IC argument make sure both people agree that in the end nothing will happen), nor can you do all - too - much interaction with NPC's in the forum roleplay, because it might have consequences that Ben needs to know about. And as we all know, Ben is a wonderful but busy DM. Though feel free to interact with NPC's that Ben posts here, if he wants to make them available. Furthermore it is also obvious that you must be prepared for anything to be voided, should Ben choose to make it so. Most players who have played a session have their character currently in Red Larch for the time being, and perhaps we can make a new thread for each new area. Be advised: If you have a new character, chances are Ben will want to do/explain something upon your arrival. So only post in this thread if your character is present in Red Larch. --------------------------------------------------------- Red Larch: The town of Red Larch is a waystop on the Long Road seven days north of Waterdeep and is located at the intersection of three trails. One trail leads to the Bargewright Inn another to Kheldell and the third runs into the hills to derelict, monster-infested keeps. The town was named for a stand of red larch trees that were chopped down about the time of the town's founding. Red Larch is known for its nourishing, though otherwise un-noteworthy food, called crumblecake. Crumblecakes are made into moist loaves from nuts, chickpea mash, chopped roots and greens, turkey and wildfowl scraps, all baked together. Currently known noteable locations (described in sessions): Places of resting: - The Swinging Sword (the more reputable Inn) - Mother Yalantha's (a flea-ridden boarding house where not many questions are asked) Places of meeting: - The road, town squares, small market stands where due, the closeby trees and small farms. - The Helm at Highsun (A tavern for the commonfolk of Red Larch. Most customers are caravan guards, adventurers, retired people, people who want to just be alone, and merchants looking for relaxation.) - All Faith Shrine ) (The Shrine may have Non-Player Characters that Ben keeps track of - will edit after asking permission) --------------------------------------------------------- Not sure where to start? Simply think of what your character is doing in the time they're not out on an adventure. Does your paladin step away from the temple after a moment of prayer to go satiate his/her dry throat at the tavern? Does your ranger return from a quick hunting trip, looking over his or her spoils near a market stall? Almost everyone likes a little game, or music, or visiting markets for anything they need, or you can simply approach someone if you feel it's appropriate. I will do my best to update things as they move along. Have fun getting to know eachother In Character! - Jan

Mortrose is a young half-elven woman that clearly does not frequent cities or civilisation often, with handcrafted and weathered clothing of differing silks and furs along with a cloak attached to a strange mixture of fur, scales and feathers arranged in half a circle behind her head, all dark or black in colour. Her garb a mixture of old and new that somehow works together very elegantly. She herself has long, flowing jet black hair and light green eyes, her body a smooth mixture of Elven and Human features. Though she gives a strong presence, she does not look too physically strong, but that is a notion that has cost the lives of many a creature that believed she was easy prey. And while perfectly capable of resolving things diplomatically, as half-elves are renowned to do, she somehow appears a bit... distant compared to other half-elves. She saunters about Red Larch confidently while not out looking for adventure, but clearly seems out of place. She mostly sticks to the Eastern and Southern part of Red Larch, shying away from the rowdy taverns, inns and the Temple. She nods and smiles as a villager seemingly compliments her, muttering something about bandits. But as she turns away after a kind word of thanks and calmly walks on, it is clear in her light green eyes that hers is a troubled mind. She sits down near a tree that overlooks the calm roads of the town, and takes out a scroll case with some notes, to begin doodling or writing.

Dibble de Bibble is a typically sized halfing. Brown hair, dark green eyes, and a wry smile that both disarming and a reason for concern. He wears simple leather armor with oversized belts and buckles. Also, carries a mace that hangs heavy on his belt, plus a dagger. Dibble lives to have a good time and spends too much time at "The Helm at Highsun" gambling, telling jokes and drinking. Many of the locals come to enjoy his company as he is the life of the party. He has only been here a few days and has had more than one person fall out of his chair. Either by laughing or a prank that caused others to laugh. Lately though he has found himself talking to farmers in the area. Nobody knows why but chances are he is planing his next prank or joke.

On his way around the little farms near Red Larch, Dibble would likely spot Mortrose as she sits by a common oaken tree. She looks up, her green eyes glinting strangely a moment in the shadow of the foliage as she softly smirks and lightly waves at him, recognizing him from their fight against the bandits.

Zeal West is a peculiar half-elf when noticed. A bright red bushy afro, bronze like skin, and light hazel eyes help him stand out in crowded markets. He can be seen adorned in dark leather armor with a well maintained maple wood longbow attached to his back. To those who regularly encounter Zeal they would notice that when off on another adventure he likes to bring an iron buckler and shortsword for situational protection. Never seen without a smile around his face, you can catch Zeal hanging around "The Helm at Highsun" dancing to the local music and sharing exaggerated stories of his adventures to the village children. On his down time, Zeal enjoys helping out at Tantur's smithy. For him there is just something about the forge's warmth that brightens his mood.

Despite the blood stains, mask, and weapon oft used for executions, the man darting around the outskirts of Red Larch has an air of vigilance. First impressions of the man are fairly disconcerting because of his outlandish behavior and lack of social etiquette, but recent events have made him a local hero; he who chopped the evil half-ogre Gerraugh's head off with the help of several other adventurers new in town. Most call him Meld due to his tendency to seemingly disappear and reappear through the grass and trees. His real name may never be known because any effort to inquire about his life is met with a cold shoulder. Although extremely impersonal, Meld does whatever he can to protect others; especially the weak. Before he arrived in Red Larch, Meld spent his time assisting hamlets and villages north of Waterdeep by protecting them from the many Orcs, bandits, and barbarians located in the frontier. This experience has allowed him to excel at fighting off hordes with his massive bardiche. He continues to hone his skills in Red Larch by aiding the constable while waiting to hear more information about the important task given to him by the Emerald Enclave. Meld now rests just outside of Red Larch where he covers the red stains on his cloak in mud and grass. He awaits for the next task the Constable has for him.

Haneda Haneda Hiroshi Takeda became a ronin after losing his master in a battle about a hundred years ago, however, he still follows the way of bushido. Since then he has wandered the land as a sell-sword. He finds himself out of coin at the moment in Red Larch and is taking work from the local constabulary to revitalize his purse. Despite his past, he is quick to share a hearty laugh and a pint. Being raised as a nobleman he is polite, well-mannered, and always strives to be clean and orderly. He also seeks work brewing beers and teas which is his passion, second only to his study of swordsmanship. He can be seen meditating, teaching tai chi to local villagers, or at Singing Sword seeking a bath to wash the road off of him. His sword, Okinakuma, is always by his side.

Lucien's Description: A younger (25 year old) half-elf with brown hair. It is hard to say what's more noticeable, his gold, elven eyes, or his radiant smile. Behind his looks, however, seems to be turning gears in his head, as though he is always looking for something, perhaps the upper hand in combat, or perhaps the right words to charm a friend . Lucien Duskwalker Orphaned at a young age, Lucien had spent most of his life on the streets of Waterdeep, where he quickly learned that money is power. Despite harsh conditions, Lucien's cunning and guile helped him make a name for himself, and the local factions seemed to take notice as well. As he grew older, his skills in swordplay and deception were honed, he was rising up in his faction. Eventually, he was sent to Red Larch on orders to make some coin, which seemed absolutely copacetic to Lucien. Some would say he is greedy, but in truth he wishes to even out the growing disparity between the rich and poor, but making some coin for himself certainly wouldn't hurt. Instead of "hoity-toity" galas and events, Lucien finds his joy in good drink and good company. He can be found drinking at the Helm at Highsun, and can be found sleeping at Mama Yal's, who is quickly becoming tired of his antics.

Yalantha Dreen Owner and Proprietor of Mother Yalantha's Boarding House. The rail-thin, pipe-smoking "Mother" Yalantha (female Tethyrian human commoner) lives in a cramped ground-floor room at the very back, and most of the other twenty rooms are occupied by transient laborers. However, there are usually four or five rooms that can provide an overflow for the inn if the need arises. The three-story, dilapidated boarding house has many balconies and outside staircases. Inside, the place is a warren of narrow, creaky-floored passages that snake around small rooms made of flimsy partition walls. However, the atmosphere is cheerful, if generally noisy. Due to its location on the Long Road, Red Larch sees a fairly constant flow of transient labor. Therefore the clientele at Mother Yalantha's is always changing, and always colorful. There is a constant rumor that one of the rooms contains the ghost of a baby dragon purportedly buried beneath the building. Another room is home to a snake-headed rat. These rumors have been difficult to substantiate, but what is obvious is the heavy use of narcotics throughout the structure. Trouble is rare due to the good-natured attitude of the house's clientele, but when it does arise Mother Yalantha shuts it down immediately through liberal use of her walking stick: Mother Yalantha is no-nonsense about her business. She does little in the way of cleaning, but this also means she never pokes her nose into occupied rooms. Her sharp eyes miss little but she never repeats anything she hears. This makes Mother Yalantha's an obvious choice for people who are using the Long Road to escape their past. (Those proficient in Thieves' Cant would notice an etched symbol on the doorway that means "safe house")

Kelyn Danaris A handsome young man dressed in well cared for scale mail armor. His black hair is clean and loose, falling about his shoulders and his beard is neatly trimmed. Slightly pointed ears and delicate features suggest elvish heritage. His his jade green eyes seem friendly, and reflect the slight grin he usually wears. A serviceable mace is tied to his belt on the right and a crossbow is strapped to his back alongside his pack. His metallic shield bears a single star, an emblem Mystra, and he also has a nine starred amulet with a red mist flowing from the center on a long chain about his neck. Kelyn can often be found wandering the streets of Red Larch between forays into the wilds. Chatting with any who have a free moment or two. He visits the All Faith shrine every morning and evening to pray with any other followers and is eager to learn of the tenets and practices of those who follow gods other than Mystra. He often takes a drink at the Helm at High sun, though he heads to the Swinging Sword to sleep as it reminds him more of his home in Waterdeep. Helea's Bath House and Valavo's Sundries are the other places he frequents, the former to keep clean and the latter for any rumors heard by the proprietor and to peruse any new books he has received.

Mortrose gets up from her spot after a while and stands up, stretching herself before gathering her things once more. As she tucks away her scroll case, fiddling with her backpack, she looks about and sees Kelyn in the distance (probably talking merrily to townsfolk). She smiles widely and begins walking towards him, giving a glance at her own old and handcarved symbol of Mystra in thought. Having closed the distance, she waits until he doesn't seem too busy before speaking to him: "Kelyn, was it? Looks like Mystra certainly is making people happy today." She smirks a little as she looks over the passing townsfolk. "How have you been?"

Kelyn smiles at Montrose , "Ahh, Mortrose, Mystra's blessing on you lass." He reaches out toward her own holy symbol , "I meant to compliment your own symbol when we first met, but it slipped my mind in all the excitement. I fare well in this new town, though it does lack some of the comforts of home," he smiles at a passing child and waves at its mother. Glancing back at Montrose he asks, "I trust you are adjusting to life in Red Larch as well?"

"Adjusting? I've no need to adjust." She nods slowly "I suppose I've grown used to not having the -comforts- you speak of. Still, now that I'm here, may as well put that well-earned gold to use." She smirks as she looks over to some market stalls in the distance. "And yes..." She grabs at her own symbol, which is handmade and worn, it is of terrible quality in comparison to most such symbols. "I've made it myself a long time ago... in difficult times. I suppose it still -are- difficult times. Some things never change, hm?" She traces her right thumb and index finger across her own chin as she asks: "What about yourself? Where do you hail from?" She lets her symbol of Mystra hang around her neck again, to dangle next to symbols of Tymora and Waukeen, both too old and weathered.

Looks at Mortrose in surprise, " I did not mention that already? Ah, I was born near Waterdeep and have spent most of my life there. My parents own a bakery, specializing in sweet treats and cakes." He pauses, as if recalling pleasant memories if his smile is any indication, " My parents were adventurers before I was born. They imparted many lessons to me about the life of adventure and challenge. The temple of Mystra prepared me spiritually." He touches the holy symbol around his neck reverently, " How about yourself Miss? What path brought you to Red Larch?"

"From adventurer to baker, hm?" She smirks and looks back at him in thought a moment, clearly contemplating her response. "Sounds like you've had it relatively easy... as for myself, not so much. I suppose I hail from Daggerford, a path-... quaint... little town a ways South of Waterdeep along the Trade Way. Though I would not call it home..." Mortrose pauses a moment, recalling memories much like you did but they seem like far from pleasant ones. "No, my home is everywhere and nowhere. Regardless!" She suddenly perks up with a smile. "We should talk about something more... interesting! I've been wondering about your opinion... do you believe that all magic comes from the Weave, or could there be entities that surpass Mystra's guidance on the use of magic? I've heard that it is she who decides where magic flows, but if that is so... why does she allow darker magic to persist? Or allow even those who follow her loyally to be cursed? I'm not... asking too many questions, am I?" She smiles widely at you with a sudden inquisitive nature that might have caught you off-guard. "Just... trying to understand some things, is all."

Kelyn purses his lips and squints at Mostrose, " The first thing we learn in the temple is magic is an Art, a gift from the Lady. We are privileged to be able to manipulate the Weave at all, and should be humble in our use of it." He pauses, nods, and continues, " Mystra is the goddess of magic itself, and with that all the possibilities that come with it. As with any gift, there are always those who will abuse the gift, and some lord it over others, or use it to bring harm. Even when turned to dark uses, magic should be respected and preserved, never destroyed. She expects us to be wise in our use of the gift, but cannot control our actions." Here Kelyn takes a long pause, as if waiting for a response, but continues, " Mystra asks us to love magic for itself, not for what we can do with it. We are taught true wisdom lies in knowing when to not use magic, rather than using it wantonly and recklessly. And above all, preserve magic and seek new ways to use it, and encourage the creation of new magic." Kelyn smiles at Mortrose, " I hope this answers a few of your questions?"

Mortrose pays close attention during the explanation, this clearly being a topic that's close to her heart for some reason. "It... it most certainly does." she says and nods solemnly as he asks that. "Thank you, you explain it very eloquently. It's good that you're here, helping people with such words of wisdom. If only more cared for Mystra so..."

Leo Regulus A young human (21) with black eyes and white hair. Wearing heavy armor and carrying a glaive, javelins and a shield for when things get ugly. If someone would try to look carefully at him he would notice the symbol of the Order Of The Gauntlet on his left shoulderpiece and hist right hand gauntlet shining brighter than the rest of the armor and carved as if the whole gauntlet is a symbol of Torm. Leo's village was destroyed and his family was killed by a group of orcs when he was young, a band of the order of the gauntlet saved him as they took him in to their fortress in Summit Hall and helped him convert all of his anger towards the orcs and the to positive energy and helping others in need. Leo would often be at the All Faith shrine offering his help to those who wish it, trying to heal the injured and cure the ill, when hes not at the shrine he can either be found helping the old on the streets or at the farmlands, from times to times he would be at the Helm at Highsun enjoying peoples stories (Zeal's too) and will easily believe most of them even if a normal person would call bullshit on it; Leo spends his nights at the Singing Sword, and if a friend that fought besides him would need a place to sleep he would offer to pay for him.

After the ordeal in the extensive caves to the Southwest of Red Larch and facing the 'Lord' of *unintelligible mumbling* Rock, Mortrose seems much more confident than she has been before. And though still with a faint aura of worry about her, she feels she can risk a bit of celebration by going into the Helm at Highsun. Entering hesitantly, but trying not to make a scene, she orders some simple food and water and saunters over to a quiet corner to sit down and pour over notes, trying to wrangle her head over the symbol that everyone saw onto the Orb upon defeating the 'Lord of Lance Rock'. Occasionally she mumbles to herself as she scribbles possibilities down, only to scratch them out not soon after and begin anew. She then looks up from her work to look around a moment as she takes a drink, realising that this is the first time she's entered a tavern in about eight years, give or take. With a slight smirk, she looks back to her notes, forgetting for just a brief moment that she is a hunted woman...

Well Dibble thinks to himself I really need to appease Tymora more often. "My luck nearly ran out!." "Thank Tymora's blessing that she sent help right when we needed it, eh?" as he nudges Mortrose. Dibble thanks Mortrose and Norel for being his good luck charm and saving his life. Then Dibble heads to the Swinging Sword to get some rest and a drink. Thinking about how to bring more good luck to the town of Red Larch, Dibble goes looking for Zita for help with this. She should have recovered by now and may have information on what this town really needs. She is a Harper after all. In the meantime I will have to get Zeal to help me with a prison break. It will be a riot if we can get all of Constable Harbroks pigs to run the streets at midnight. Mr. Oinkers will be proud.

Back in the cave, as Dibble nudged Mortrose she turned to him and went: "Surely you know the old saying of Tymora's? --Luck favors the bold--. And striding on in here on this big friend of yours, no less..." She pats Mr. Oinkers on the side a moment. "I'd say that's pretty bold." She smiles happily at him, stroking two fingers gently over her old and weathered, low-quality symbol of Tymora.

Mortrose can now be seen either at the graveyard in quiet mourning, or praying at the Allfaith Shrine, towards Mystra but more to any god or goddess that will listen. The subtle smile that was on her face now gone, replaced by grief, regrets and haunted memories. She avoids the Helm at Highsun like it was the plague itself, barely speaking to anyone and not having much of an appetite.

Aranis is a very attractive elf with light colored hair and green eyes. He wears flashy clothes that flow and flutter when he moves. He carries a rapier, a shortbow, and a lute. He has the symbol of Sune on his cloak. He is friendly and greets everyone with a smile. In the evening he can be found at the Swinging Sword, singing, dancing and playing his lute. Normally he plays lively fun songs to keep the crowd happy, cheerful, and drinking, but since the tragic death of the young heroes, he has played music more fitting the somber time of mourning. Always before, the spring returned. The bright world in its cycle spun In air and flowers, grass and fern, Assured and cradled by the sun. Always before, you could explain The turning darkness of the earth, And how that dark embraced the rain, And gave the ferns and flowers birth. Already I forget those things, And how a vein of gold survives The mining of a thousand springs, The seasons of a thousand lives. Now winter is my memory, Now autumn, now the summer light- So every spring from now will be Another season into night. (OOC I found this song here: <a href="http://www.krynnwoman.com/Songs/Songs-Reference.htm#ReferenceKenderMourningSon" rel="nofollow">http://www.krynnwoman.com/Songs/Songs-Reference.htm#ReferenceKenderMourningSon</a> g )

Rumour is abound in Red Larch of the expedition to the Coldtooth mines, the ancient Dwarven ruins and treasures that were found there along with the battle against a black dragon. More and more travellers can be found looking into these rumours, bringing many strangers and commerce to the small town, and it seems that slowly, the dark days that came before go to the back of people's minds once more. The orphaned baby, Constance, has been looked after well enough with her new family, and there has been little sign of the Uthgardt tribes. Some names come quickly on people's tongues, being renowned for the expedition: Lorelei, Dibble, Caine, Meld, Roren, Leo, Alfurnog and Mortrose. Along with the name of a man who lost his life to the black dragon, Sthoma: Anders Raldin, the former gravekeeper and faithful of Myrkul. Still, not everyone believes the stories, or knows about these adventurers. And life in Red Larch moves on, as it always does - with new and known adventurers drawing and solving trouble, recently having rumored to look into a theft problem in the basement of the Helm at Highsun. After a lengthy well-earned rest, healing whatever scarring remains, Mortrose leaves the Swinging Sword in long, flowing green robes with a V-line in which can be seen part of the acid burns on the front of her body, near the collarbone: A remnant of Sthoma that she will carry with for the rest of her life. She quietly tends to the graveyard for a while, taking over Anders' job and replacing the flowers on the old graves, but it is clear that she isn't cut out for the work. So, she decides to hang up small posters about town, that a new gravekeeper is being searched for. She does not spend -all- her time alone and in mourning, however. Mortrose seems much more serene and determined than ever before, and as she is secretly feeding Mr. Oinkers some apples with a smile on her face, she ponders back to the last few days and makes a silent promise to the Gods... that she will never become as cowardly or cruel as her black draconic bloodline. The troubles she knew when she arrived to Red Larch seem of so very little meaning, now. If Mystra has decided that this is her path, and these are her companions, then she will no longer try to hide from what she is. To love magic for itself, and not for what one can do with it, is not always an easy thing... but she will try, she thinks to herself. These companions, these adventurers are the closest thing to a family she has left, and she will not simply abandon them. Not anymore.

Anders wakes up, again in darkness, the fresh memories of fetid bugs eating him alive and the burning of the acid from Sthoma. He looks around, noticing that everything looks familiar. A dark, hooded figure emerges from the shadows. A soft, hissing voice speaks out from under the hood. "I knew you would fail me. You worthless mortal." "You chose me. Why didn't you just leave me die in the beginning? I wouldn't have had to see my village destroyed, my parents dead, and my beloved raped and decapitated. I started a new life. I was doing your bidding. How dare you bring me back to your realm. I wasn't done." "Silence. You didn't do enough. I needed more dead. You didn't provide." "I started and ended a small war between two kingdoms and erected a graveyard, in your name. I don't understand what more you could have wanted in the short amount of time I was in Red Larch." "The child was mine." "What?" "You took my prize away from me. A Cleric truly devoted to me would have let it die, or, killed it himself." Anders looks down with pain in his eyes. "Nothing to say? Good. Your time is up. I will find a new Cleric to take your place and ensure my return to my physical body." From out of the robe emerges a shining scythe. The hooded figure steps closer to Anders and raises a hand. Skeletal hands jut from the ground ensnaring Anders, holding him in place. The scythe arcs up into the air and as the blade comes rushing forth, a single word leaves Anders' lips. "Constance"

Dibble finds it a bit difficult to celebrate the defeat of Sthoma . Questioning how Tymora decided that one of our party would pay the ultimate price. The balance of fate and good fortune vs. bad fortune troubles him from time to time. However, his faith is given resolve in knowing when Mortrose was on the verge of her final breath Tymora chose him to change her fate. Which in turn changed the fate of us all. Striking the final blow was meant to be by her hand not Dibbles. Tymora made sure of that by causing his prayers to miss the vile black dragon. Funny how things work out. Now that the Harper's are pleased with my contribution toward helping to stabilize the region, they have granted me favor.I think I will keep their favor for a later time. For now I will purchase something for Mr. Oinkers to celebrate our victory. I have had enough time mourning the loss of companions in recent weeks. So now is the time to honor them by living life to the fullest.

The Helm at Highsun Right across the Long Road from the Swinging Sword Inn stands a ramshackle two-story tavern. Rusty metal grills cover its small, dirty windows. The tavern’s name is very clearly printed in large, simple letters on both sides of a jutting wooden sign. Atop the sign is a rusting, oversized adornment: a warrior’s bucket helm with two eye slits (actually an upside-down washtub). Inside is a large, dimly lit, wood-paneled taproom. An open-tread wooden staircase climbs to the upper floor, which is just as dim and darkly paneled as the taproom. Across the back of the taproom is a long bar with three copper candle-lanterns hanging over it, and a stair leading down to the cellars. The Helm at Highsun is where locals relax, gossip, flirt, tell jests and “war stories” of their working days, and get drunk. It’s not a place for refined dining. A dozen servers work shifts at the Helm; most nights, two cover the ground floor and one waits on guests on the upper floor. The staff at the Helm don’t gossip, but they direct anyone who questions them to other patrons they think might talk about a particular subject. A gift of a drink loosens most tongues. The Helm gets rowdy from time to time, but the staff is ready for ordinary drunken fisticuffs. Behind the bar are three stout and well-used cudgels, and an old cloak used as an improvised stretcher to lug drunks outside (and sometimes thrown over the heads of brawlers so they can be clubbed down). Garlen Harl athurl The Helm at Highsun is run by the jovial but grasping Garlen Harlathurl (Tethyrian commoner). He is a cynic bitter from failed Waterdhavian mercantile ventures, but he has turned out to be an attentive tavern-keeper. He has two partners: one has retired to Waterdeep, and the other is the cellarer of the Helm, Justran Daehl. Justran Daehl Your run of the mill bartender and cellarer, Justran Daehl has been a fixture at the Helm at Highsun for as long as anyone cares to remember. He doesn't care for pretense or high-nosed nobles, and he has no qualms about making this fact known. He can be found most hours of the day and night behind the bar - chattering with the locals and wiping dirty glasses with a greasy handkerchief.

&nbsp; &nbsp;Regdab Groinsplitter of the Tree Ghost Clan &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;At a solid 3' feet tall and at a burly 45lbs, wearing nothing but a leopard-skin loincloth and and a necklace depicting the sacred Grandfather Tree, Regdab Groinsplitter saunters into the small town of Red Larch. His unkempt brown hair and beard are somehow shadowed by his even wilder forest-green eyes, which seem to betray his untamed spirit. Flexing his tiny (yet very respectable for his size) muscles at anyone he passes, it soon becomes clear to passersby that Regdab is not one to be messed with. Some might snicker as he waddles by, perhaps thinking that this puny gnome is overcompensating for something, but Regdab holds his head high. He knows that a mighty warrior such as himself cannot be put down by the whims and gossip of others, especially when he is on a mission as important as his own. The civilized world is still novel to an outlander such as Regdab, and so he decides to stop by the Helm at Highsun to partake in some local merriment, which he thinks Uthgard would have done in his place as well.&nbsp;

Kambei Shimada was raised in a strict household. The eldest son of a prominent noble named "Takaharu Shimada". His every move politically was as precise as an expert swordsman. Kambei has two siblings a middle child named Kikuchiyo, who takes after his father. Then the youngest, his sister Keiko who idolizes her oldest brother, Kambei. Growing up they all were very close Kambei looked after his siblings like a mother hen. Although his father didn't care for it as he wanted them to fend for themselves. "Real life has no guardian angels, only hard lessons." he would say. As a result Kambei was often punished for interfering in his fathers harsh teachings. Yet he never stopped looking after them. Realizing this, his father sent him away to train with his grandfather, Samurai Kyuzo Shimada. Before he sent him to train with him he actually never met him before then. Only heard of him like some mythical legend that defeated scores of soliders with his great Katana Sword. He could do things that no man should be able to do. Deflect blows he couldn't see coming, fall from impossible heights and not get hurt, shoot fire and lighting to strike down his enemies, even summon his sword out of thin air. Needless to say he looked forward to meeting his idol growing up. When he finally did he was much older than he thought. Barely able to get around he thought to himself that his father told him those stories and they were not true. However, given his personality he wasn't about to run back home and abandon his grandfather. For months he took care of him, looking after him was even more demanding than his father's rules were. What he didn't realize was that with every task he was learning the ancient art of the Kaze Samurai, the way of the wind. After about 3 years his grandfather was on his deathbed. That is when he told him how to unlock his Kaze and that he had taught him everything he knew. That he was a better student than Takaharu and to use his talents to not only look after his siblings but to continue to protect the innocent. To do what is right. He took his hand then struggled to make a gesture that summoned his trusty sword. Kambei looked in disbelief as he placed the sword in his hand. Go Kambei, go into the world and make your mark take my teachings and become better than I. Extra content: His sister Keiko admires her brother so much she managed to run away with Kambei on his noble task of traveling these strange lands and righting wrongs. However, Kambei is unaware that she is one of his retainers a young woman going by the name Aiko. The other two retainers Daisuke and Kenji know of Keiko but dare not reveal it to Kambei for fear of losing their position in his house. Aiko acts as a messenger and attendant while Daisuke is a full time Major domo and Kenji an attendant / scribe. (Kambeis's retainers - Aiko aka Keiko, Daisuke, and Kenji) (pronounced - Aiko - I E KO, Keiko - K KO, Daisuke - DAH SUE K, Kenji - KEN G) The tales of the heroes of Red Larch has spread far indeed. All the way far east toward the Shou lands. Hearing about the noble deeds done in the meager town of Red Larch has got the notice of a young Kaze Samurai Warrior called Kambei. Standing a regal 5'11", weighing 180 llb's, with jet black hair pulled into a fancy ponytail. He says very little turning to his retainers as his faithful Major Domo - Daisuke Who presents Kambei with the news. Kambei turns to Daisuke and says "I will honor these heroes with my presents. Should the stories prove true I may honor them further with my skill in battle against the evil that plagues their foreign lands." with little more than a hand wave Daisuke bows and turns to Aiko and Kenji &nbsp; "Prepare the Kaze Kambei's things we are to travel to Red Larch."

Caine, waving his goodbyes to his "fellow dragonslayers" (as the locals referred to them) headed towards a back room in the Swinging Sword. &nbsp;The Harper representative awaited him. &nbsp;" You've been busy, Caine, Child of Savras." &nbsp; The hooded figure, wearing a harp-shaped brooch, beckoned to an open seat. &nbsp;" The cloak and dagger act is unbecoming of you," Caine smirked. &nbsp;" The Harpers in Daggerford didn't deal in theatrics." &nbsp; Caine stretched out as much as he could in the wooden chair, obviously still haggard after the long walk back to Red Larch. &nbsp;" I'm sure you're pleased with my performance, though I'm not sure how any of this benefited your cause-" The liaison raised their hand. &nbsp;" Our cause, no matter how unofficially you bind yourself to it. &nbsp;You know the tenets, you agreed with them. &nbsp;Balance, preserving knowledge and education. &nbsp;The rediscovery of an ancient ruin, no matter how accidentally, satisfies that. &nbsp;Though I'm sure you're more eager to know what information I have for you." &nbsp; The Harper pulled a sealed envelope from beneath their robes, and handed it to the fortuneteller. &nbsp;" The murderer of your friends, you've been following them since Iriaebor. &nbsp;Here's all we know so far, consolidated. &nbsp;I know you're a wanderer at heart, but I can say this; you would do well to stay in the area for a while. &nbsp;We can't confirm anything yet, but there has been a murder and magical torture in the Dessarin Valley, fits the methodology." &nbsp; Caine's coy smile faded quickly, his brow furrowed, and hate flickered in the light dancing across his irises for only a brief moment. &nbsp;" I understand, Harper. &nbsp;Got an extra pin?" &nbsp; The liaison nodded in approval, took theirs off, and slid it across the table.

Mortrose calmly enters the Helm at Highsun once more after a long time, clad in her flowing dark green robes with black finishings on the edges that curl and weave in Elven patterns, and drags behind her slightly but not in the way. It has long sleeves in which her hands are half hidden, and those that have travelled with her might know that she conceals the blackened scales of her draconic heritage well. Though Sthoma's scar, caused by the dragon's acidic breath, is clearly visible near her collarbone: a big patch of seemingly newer skin that's still regaining color with a slightly darker edge around it that if you'd hazard a guess may well span most of her body on the left side. As she enters, she glances at the very sturdy looking gnome that a few of the patrons are snickering at as he passes, and frowns at them as she heads towards the bar. She looks about to find an empty table that still needs to be cleaned, and turns to speak to Justran Daehl as he puts his well-used dirty handkerchief over it's usual resting spot. Asking for a light ale and something hearty to eat, she reaches for her coin pouch to pay, and asks them kindly to bring it to the table as she reaches for something else in her pack: A sizeable, sturdy book with a cover of black dragonscales and what looks like a leathery tail to bind it closed. If anyone asks about it, she'll say it came from the dragon's hoard, but in truth it had appeared in her hands a while ago,&nbsp;seemingly out of nowhere while they were making their way back to the surface... Slowly, as she sits taking a drink and begins deciphering the meaning of the book, she begins to reminisce and realise that all she has accomplished these past few days has been bringing far too much attention to herself. Sooner or later, her past will catch up to her, and she will have to answer to the ones hunting her. 'If only I could explain...' she thinks. 'As if anyone'd believe me...'.

"By Tymora's luck our adventures into this desolate land has lead us to more and more companions these past few weeks. It is only by her blessings that our numbers grow to cleanse this land of the evil that doesn't know how to loosen up and have fun. Having a good laugh in the face of danger is how I stay strong. Besides, I enjoy tricking my enemies into attacking false images and sowing seeds of confusion in their minds. However, our last adventure has me at a crossroads. Now most of the party I traveled with these past few days wish to sell something we discovered and I laid claim to one of. Can you believe it, by Tymora, we recovered two Griffon Eggs. We managed to keep them warm on our quest to rid the Feathergale Spire Tower of the unpleasant residence there. Alfurnog had a good idea of sneaking up the back of the tower. I used one of Tymora's blessings to get us to the base unseen. We left my trusty steed Mr. Oinkers to watch over them as we ascended the tower.&nbsp; We managed to defeat everyone in the tower but the best part was getting to have relations with the ample Lorelei. Oh I think I'm in love buddy. The best 4 1/2 minutes of my life. Then things got even better as we got to the top of the tower I was so inspired by our encounter I ran up and slew 3 enemies in one go. Oh and the funniest thing was Alfurnog snatching a lute from a major enemy as he pushed him off the ledge. I nearly peed my pants it was so funny. Especially since these were the same people that tried to throw him and my other compainions Lia and Leo. Poetic justice is so sweet. Then the group took a turn for the worst. They all tried to convince me to sell Mines. My newly claimed Griffon Egg. How could they after all I had done for them. After all we had two and I only wanted to keep the one. Although after a lot of convincing and standing my ground Leo and Lorelei sided with me. I do wonder if this is the right choice though. They are correct to point out that the Tower and Keep will require funds to maintain. I promise to make amends though. I offered 100 gp of my own money as a down payment for the value of Mines. But I was dismissed as if that was all I was offering for him. I will deposit funds to compensate them for their perceived loss. Traveling with these adventurers is not like my days as a youth where I would take whatever I needed from those that had so much. Truth be told the eggs belonged to the parent Griffons that we killed, even though I tried not to. So we claimed the eggs and most wanted to sell them. But we don't know how a new owner would treat him, they might be mean. Well it doesn't matter because I will not let them take Mines or Lorelei. They are my two loves and if things continue to go well I will marry Lorelei for I have eyes for no other. Well old friend I have to be off, I enjoy our talks...I miss you Zeal ole buddy."

As nightly shadows start to cast over the valley, Meld begins to ponder about recent events. These winged beasts are nothing like the humanoids he was used to slaughtering and the barren hills were not as forgiving as the bountiful grasslands. He was learning quickly, however, having killed dozens of flyers the past few days. It was not nearly enough to satiate his blood lust. Their necks are not nearly as vulnerable as that of a human. It was more beneficial to land a devastating blow to the chest, he mentally noted as he reminisced about slaughtering 4 giant vultures in the span of 6 seconds. Their language was nothing like what Meld was used to, yet he somehow was beginning to understand it. Auran is what he thought it was called. He suddenly wished Quinn was around so he could question him. He was the only person genuinely interested in Meld's maggot and mud sutures. Perhaps he could help him scour for more in these wastelands. It wasn't nearly as easy to find food in these parts as the grasslands, but Meld managed. He was getting good at it too, being in the hills for so long now. He studied Tristan gathering herbs in order to learn about the useful plants in the area. Meld touched the vegetation to his skin, then lips, then tongue to ensure it wasn't poisonous before consuming them. The motivations of the group he was with confused him. First, during a gryphon encounter, Bibble attempted to rest next to the nesting beast. However, Meld would have nothing of it as he tried to slaughter the beast. Then, the group orphaned the eggs. "We don't have the time nor the reason to care for these monstrosities", he thought. They would make for a great meal however, but Meld had trouble conveying his thoughts to his irrational comrades.&nbsp; Later, after clearing the lower parts of the tower, the group began searching for yellow discs like bloodhounds. "What use are these things anyway?", Meld thought as he threw a gold piece into the brush. Despite this, Meld took 3 pieces in attempt to not arouse attention to himself. Meld did not understand the people he was with. He stared at them from a distance as he propped up his bardiche and began to fall asleep for the night.

Brocc Arroway's Physical Description, Brocc is a Svirfneblin (Deep Gnome) and due to his time top side his skin tone is a pale light gray. He has long unkempt white hair, as well as a long beard. Brocc wears a dark black robe with a hood, which is almost always covering his head. On the back of the robe there is a large insignia of a black two headed hawk with a golden background. He also wears an amulet around his neck that depicts a scale leaning to one side, held by a skeletal hand. &nbsp;He also has a golden ring on his left hand. He holds an oak staff with what appears to be a wooden hand on the end, with a ring on one of the fingers. If you stare at the staff long enough you might see the hand move. Brocc rides his trusty steed, "Bastard the 40th", which is a very large mastiff.&nbsp; Brocc's Introduction Brocc hails from a small village in the underdark. After a bad turn of events he was the sole survivor and found himself on the surface. He found himself near Baldur's gate where he spent a good amount of time trying to make up for his failure in defending his village. He made some great friends and once the major crises was averted in Baldurs gate he decided he wanted to travel the top side world. He spent many years as the Ebon Hawke's Tactition, as well as visiting a small village in the mountains to check up on ol' Mace. For a human pushing 90 he still manages to get into all sorts of troubles.&nbsp; As Brocc was traveling from Mithral Hall, Home of the dwarves in route to his home he purchased in Baldur's Gate. He decided to take a few days rest in the small town "Red Larch". Spending most of his time in "The Singing Sword". While he was there sharing stories of his past adventures with the Ebon Hawke he over heard a conversation at another table in regards to the Dessarin Alliance. As Brocc eavesdropped more he learned of a well endowed female paladin. &nbsp;He didn't think too much about it until a few minutes later he heard something about "Fire Hair". Weather this be from an entirely different subject or not Brocc wasn't sure. If there was a chance Brocc could see Tawny again he wouldn't miss the opportunity. With this he decided he would prolong his stay in Red Larch to see this female paladin.&nbsp;

Rand waited till well after dark before entering the town of Red Larch, he paused only briefly on his way to the Singing Sword to check his reflection in one of the shop windows lining the street. He was now 45 by his reckoning but he could easily be mistaken for a man 10 years younger, an agreeable side affect of spending 12 of the last 20 years in the Feywild as a guest of the Seemly Court. He did allow himself a small grimace of vanity at the grey starting to edge its way into his beard. He had let his beard grow in over the long journey from Baldur's Gate to Red Larch tho he still kept it neatly trimmed. Growing his beard was just one of many minor alterations to his appearance he had had to suffer since his return from the Feywild and still the assassins seemed to find him at every turn.&nbsp; "Damn that fucking whore Jalianna!" The word leapt unbidden from his lips. Even after his 12 year absence from this world she still wanted him dead. When first he had arrived back on Faerun he had returned to Waterdeep in the guise of Rantil Silverspire a traveling merchant from Silverymoon. He had reunited with Riven who now ran rather successful thieves guilds in both Waterdeep and Baldur's Gate. Riven set him to work breaking into wealthy houses like some lowly crook but Rand had accepted his role with in the guild as he knew he must. It did not take long however for word of his return to reach the ears of Jalianna however and soon after the assassins came. With Rivens help he had fled the city and had spent the last 8 years on the run, constantly on the move bouncing from one city to the next never knowing any of the comforts he had once been so accustomed too. He still kept in contact with Riven who was a continual source of information and advice.&nbsp;It was on his last trip to Baldur's Gate to see his old friend, to sell a particularly hard to fence necklace that had come into his possession, that he had stumbled accross and old gambling buddy of his Lord Elgin Crownsilver. Crownsilver was a well known man about town and as it turned out a newly enlisted Lord of the Lords Alliance, eager to make his mark within the alliance Lord Crownsilver had recruited Rand to search for some of his missing compatriots. With little in the way of other opertunities Rand had accepted. After having Elgin swear a death oath not to breath a word of his involvement to a living soul he had departed for Red Larch stopping at several of his safehouses along the way to gather the equipment, supplies and documentation he needed to assume one of the many aliases he wore.&nbsp; Arriving at the Singing Sword he took in his reflection one last time. His dark hair was shoulder length with several braids running through it and his salt and pepper beard was neatly trimmed under his strong jaw line. His travel stained cloths consisted of a grubby white linen short under a knee length brown leather fitted overcoat with matching brown leather trews tucked into well worn knee high buckskin boots. He looked a far cry from the noble Lord Randalar he had once risen to be, the twin rapiers hung at his waist, a half dozen daggers concealed upon his person and a signat ring bearing a black fox hidden in a belt pouch were the last remaining vestiges of his most famous alias. With&nbsp;a final check that his component pouch was within easy reach Rand looked his reflection in the eye "I am Randal Ravensong traveling bard extraordinar!" He told his reflection before entering the tavern.

Avaene'essa Elven for Without Name Physical Description Avaene is a half-elf that stands roughly 5'6 with brown unkempt hair. He has pale gray eyes and carries a stoic facial expression most of the time. He wearsdark chainmail with a full arm guard for his left arm. On the shoulder is the emblem of the Order of the Gauntlet, while on the gauntlet is the emblem of Helm. He also wears dark red tunic along with his armor. He carries a longsword at his hip, and a Halberd and Greatsword at his back. The greatsword is unusually large and black, with red etchings along the blade. He has a scar under his right eye, and one on his mouth. Avaene's Intro With a bang Avaene's eyes dart open. However all he can see is complete darkness around him, and a loud ringing noise in his head. As he struggled to move around it felt like as if he was being restrained. Avaene tried to recollect who he was and what he was doing here but was unable. He then started to panic and began to struggle and flail about. He started to get loose and climb his way upward as he saw glimpses of light. Once he reached the top his vision was still blurry but he could tell it was night. All of his senses were fuzzy as he couldn't focus in or hear almost anything. As he looked at his hands he noticed they were bare, and quickly after noticed he was naked. As he looked at his chest something didn't feel right, and as he felt his hands over his chest and abdomen he started to notice multiple scars. They were numerous and very deep. There was also a very large scar over his heart, that looked as if here were stabbed. "How did I survive those" he thought to himself. As his senses started to sharpen he noticed an unusual stink about the place. As he looked at his feet he saw that he was standing on a pile of naked corpses. As he gasped he lost his balance and fell down the pile with a loud thud.&nbsp; "What was that!" A voice shouted from the darkness. As Avaene peered over the pile he saw 3 humans that were digging up graves.When they noticed Avaene they yelled something that he couldn't quite make out as they all started to charge him. Avaene started to panic as he had no means to defend himself. "Let me help you" a voice echoed in the back of his mind. "What!? Who are you!" Avaene cried out. "You can call me Basron, and all you have to do is accept my help." whispered the voice. Avaene peeked over the pile to witness the 3 men almost upon him. "I accept your help Basron" Avaene said. With this Avaene could not longer control his body but could witness everything that was happening around him. "Watch closely," said Basron as he reached to the ground and started to pull a very large black sword from the earth. He then sprinted around the pile of corpses to meet the assailants head on. With a single slash he severed the first two guys at the hip. The third guy witnessing the quick demise of his friends turned tail and ran for the trees. Instead of chasing him down Basron put the blade into one of the squirming looters. He dropped to one knee and held out his left hand as if he were to hold a bow. As his right hand went closer to his other hand an almost ghost like bow started to form. He then started to draw back the right hand, and as this happened a bright arrow started to form in the hand. As he got a bead on the final grave robber he released the arrow. The arrow went straight in the back of his neck. Within a second of the arrows strike it vanished as if it was never there.&nbsp; With that final shot Avaene was finally able to move again. "It's as easy as that" whispered Basron. Avaene took the greatsword and put the second grave robber out of his misery. As he made his way towards where the grave robbers came from he noticed a rather large pile of clothes, items, and weapons. As if he were drawn to it Avaene walked to a large pile of clothes and grabbed this dark red tunic out of the pile. As he put on the tunic Avaene couldn't help to feel that this was right, and that this was his. As he put it on he noticed the crest of the "Order of the Gauntlet" on the left shoulder and the symbol for Helm on his left hand. "Maybe this clue will lead me to who I am" he thought to himself. "Guess well find out won't we" said Basron. "We should head north to Summit Hall," said Basron. "They should have answers for you if you are truly with the Order." "Who are you exactly," demanded Aveane. "All you need to know is I'm a... was a warlock. I attempted to break my contract by seperating my soul from my body. It worked, however my powers are drained and I'm unable to form my own body. So think of me a weapon, and your my wielder. Once I grow strong enough I will no longer need to use you as a host, but while I'm here I will teach you the ways a warlock."&nbsp; As Avaene approached Summit Hall he was greeted by lots of cheering by unfamiliar faces. They started to gather around him and ask all kinds of questions, like why were you gone for so long and other questions of the sort. One person chimed in and said Lady "Ushien Stormblade" has requested an audience with you when you returned. Avaene just smiled and nodded as he made his way inside the Hall. When he was but a few feet from her office he started to brush the dirt off himself. "Allow me" chimed in Basron. Basron then casted a spell and all the dirt just seemed to fall off making him clean. Once he was inside her office and finished telling her everything excluding Basron, she informed him that my friend from childhood Leo has been dispatched to Red Larch and that I should make haste and assist him in bringing a good name for the Order of the Gauntlet. With that Avaene headed off towards Red Larch.

Turduckin McClucken has finally hatched. By Tymora's blessing what a wonderful find he is, and so very cute too. I only had a little while with him before leaving to deal with the cultists that escaped through the tunnels under Riverguard Keep. At least my beloved Lorelei is there to take care of him while I am gone. Can't help but to wonder what is up with all of these cultists in the area? What are they all up to? Most of all, why are they all so boring? Every one of them is like "Oh my element is the best because of, blah, blah, blah." Well I will say this though, the air element cultists do have the must fun mounts. I just hope Mr. Oinkers doesn't get too jealous. He is still a fine steed. Far better that those boring horses. Which reminds me I will have to get in contact with some of the local farmers about selling there old and sick mares soon. Turd's gonna grow up big and strong.&nbsp;

"I warned you, my prophet, these adventurers are a formidable threat," muttered Drosnin, keeping her eyes downcast. "Their raid on the keep was lightning fast. Jolliver was laid low in seconds. Reash and I only barely escaped with our lives..." Drosnin's voice was cut off in a gurgle as Shatterkeel caught her around the throat, pinning her to the wall with his crab-claw arm. He leaned close, nose to nose with her, and rasped, "I've heard enough of your warnings, priestess. Keep them to yourself. If not for me you'd already be troll food." The prophet released Drosnin and she sank to the floor, gasping.&nbsp; "I think it's time we sent a warning of our own to this alliance of fools. While they're busy playing with Aerisi we'll show them what happens when they turn their backs on the Crushing Wave," growled Gar Shatterkeel. He glanced at the enchanted chest. It bore the symbol of the Eternal Flame, shuddering like a pressure cooker, with small bursts of steam erupting from beneath its lid. The other priests cast fearful glances at the chest and each other. The Prophet of the Crushing Wave was thoughtful for a moment. "Yes, this will also serve as a sign to Bronzefume who the favored of Olhydra is. There can be only one Prophet. With Bronzefume fully on my side Thuluna Maah and her monstrous allies will stop trying to usurp me and we will begin our crusade of drowning the world as a unified force." Shatterkeel struck the stone floor with the butt of his trident, Drown, the noise echoing through the temple. "You, and you," he began, pointing at two nearby priests, "take the Orb and unleash the Crushing Wave beneath their Rivergard Keep. Let them witness first hand the ruin that we will leave when the waves recede."

After days of hard labor at the forge and nights surrounded by the moans of those who suffer alongside her, Lorelei has come to a conclusion. No longer will she try to escape her mother's legacy, but finally embrace it. Stealing a chunk of charcoal from the forge one day, she sets about writing a letter than she hopes to someday send.

Rinn's Physical Description Rinn is a Wood Elf child, or at least most would call him that. He has shoulder length long brown hair, with pale green eyes. He often has cut and bruises on his face.He wears what looks to be a leather armor under a pale green tunic. He also carries around a rather large staff that looks as if it was carved to resemble a snake. Rinn's eyes and demeanor seem that of a much older person than that of a mere child. Rinn's Brief Background Rinn was but a child elf about the age of ten when he was tricked into going into the feywild by a couple of pixies. Once he stepped over through the feywild Rinn lost track of time. What seemed like hours turned out to be days. When Rinn asked to go home the pixies agreed and decided to take him back to his parents back in the small village. When they returned to the material world where the village was, they found nothing but ruined huts that look like they were abandoned well over a year. With no where left to go, Rinn followed them back to the feywild. The pixies took little Rinn to thier local Feylord of the Seelie Court. For his own amusement he kept the little Rinn.&nbsp; However this drew the attention of a neighboring minor Feylord. They had a rivalry that had been going on for for centuries. What one had, the other wanted, they would constantly steal from each other as a contest, which kept both feylords from getting hostile. Even though this Feylord was of the Unseelie Court. It wasn't even a week before Rinn was swept away by this minor Feylord. Once in the domain of this minor Feylord he casted a powerful curse onto Rinn, where he would be unable to age until he left the Feywild. This minor Feylord kept Rinn for decades. One day the Feylord got bored of keeping Rinn away and decided to let him roam free in his domain, with a promise that no harm would come to him. There in the darker part of the feywild he found a very peculiar old elf. She taught little Rinn the secrets of being a druid, and how to become one with nature. He spent a couple of decades. After Rinn was able to master changing his shape, he thought now was his time to escape the Feywild, and go make a new life.&nbsp; As he escaped the domain of that minor Feylord he come across something he's never seen before. A "human" they called it, looked very similar to elves, however it's ears were rounded off and and it seemed to have hair growing from it's face. He seemed like he was a welcome guest amount the Seelie Court. He also mentioned that he were to leave the feywild soon. "This is my chance to leave." Rinn followed this human to this lake. The reflection in the water looked different then the surroundings. The human stepped in the lake and never came back out. As Rinn approached the lake, he heard a loud growling coming from just beyond some brush. A displacer beast walked through the brush. Rinn took the form of a large Cave Bear and charged the displacer beast. The fight was one sided, as the displacer beast was just toying around with him now. Rinn eventually lost his form and reverted to his child body. The displacer beast was unrelenting as it attacked the boy. With Rinn's last spurt of energy he shifted into the form of a Cave Bear and made a run for the lake. The displacer beast gave a few parting hits as Rinn went through the water. As Rinn walked through the water he was met by a very large pale person wielding a large maul. In panic Rinn struck out at this person, only to be knocked unconscious with a single blow.&nbsp; When he came too he was greeted by this "Goliath by the name of Mandra". With nowhere else to go he decided he would accompany him as all he known his life is behind him now, and has to start anew.&nbsp;

&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Dibble paces back and forth on the top of the Feathergale spire, while rolling his holy symbol the copper coin of Tymora between his thick fingers. Impatiently looking over the valley every few times he paces to the edge. A few moments later he stops to survey the sky as a small dot grows larger and larger in the sky to reveal an Aarakocra coming in for a landing rather winded. Dibble rushes the large bird man with his arms open and before he can speak the Aarakocra shakes his head back and forth signifying a no. Dibbles head sinks as he turns away he asks, "You didn't find anything? Anything at all to indicate where my Lorelei is or whether she is even still alive?" Aarakocra responds, "No,...only the signs of a pitch battle where you sent me. I circled the area as you requested and only found some scorch marks on the ground likely from a campfire. You have my simp..." Dibble, "No, don't you finish that sentence. If you have found no evidence of her death then by Tymora there is still hope. You mentioned scorch marks on the ground, were they a single mark or did they have a pattern?" Aarakocra, "Now that you mention it one of them did. Kinda of resembled a bowl now that you mention it." Dibble thinks to himself as he paces again one of the cults may have taken her prisoner. If they managed to take her prisoner they must be quite powerful and rescuing her and our other companions will not be easy. &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;"Thank you for you help, I am in you debt." Dibble says as he reaches up to shake the Aarakocra's hand. Dibble rushes down stairs to see Turducken who has grown quite a lot in recent weeks. Nearing the time of flight training he thinks if only you were old enough we would swoop in and get my Lorelei but perhaps it is for the best. I need to come up with a plan, one that uses the blessings of Tymora to get to her with a little conflict as possible. Hopefully they have more prisoners than guard. If we liberate them the added sword arms could make the battle swing in our favor. I need more information though, to infiltrate their ranks I need the help of one who thinks as I do. I know who I must seek out, Rand.&nbsp;

Rand sat alone in The Singing Sword, his seat was placed so he had a clear view of the doors both front and back and allowing him easy access to the five escape routes he had devised from the tavern. He swilled the remaining brandy around his glass before downing it in one quick gulp and pouring himself another emptying the bottle sitting infront of him. Since arriving in Red Larch things had gone well for Rand he had established himself in The Dessarin Alliance, he had surrounded himself with powerful companions should Jalianna's assassins find him, he had coin in his pocket and sporting the fine clothes he had purchased he felt more like his old self than he had done in years, yet Rand was unsettled. The disappearance of the group he had accompanied in to battle against the fire cult by itself bothered him little after all he had lost more than one good friend to the dangers of adventuring, but the fact that Tawny's daughter Lorelei numbered amongst the missing was gnawing at his gut. By Maks's hairy arse he knew he owed the girl nothing he barely knew her but her mother was a different story, he had lost count of the times Tawny had saved his life when they had travelled together and despite his best attempts he could not help but feel indebted to his former comrade and by proxy her daughter. Rands musings were interrupted by the approach of Sasha, the buxom barmaid he had spent the last few weeks pursuing. "Another bottle for ye me darlin'?" she asked glancing at the empty bottle sitting next to his sword belt on the table before him "I get of me shift in and hour maybe i'll join ye." she said with a rye smile. Cursing under his breath Rand rose knocking back the glass of brandy he had just poured before answering. "Most unfortunately my beauty I must decline for I have business to attend to this night." Collecting his sword belt from the table he paused briefly to offer Sasha a salacious wink and whisper "Another time my dear" he left for&nbsp;Feathergale spire.

Bethendtur relates the history of the Sumber Hills at the Feathergale Spire. Without his notes his information is sporadic, but here is what he recalls from memory: "The earliest realm&nbsp;that arose in what would later be called the Dessarin Valley is the shield dwarf kingdom of Besilmer,&nbsp;which was founded nearly six thousand years ago in&nbsp;-4420 DR. Its existence is so far back in the mists of&nbsp;history that only a handful of non-dwarf sages have&nbsp;even heard of it. Most people of the Dessarin Valley&nbsp;don’t know Besilmer at all, but they are familiar with&nbsp;two of its works: the engineering marvel known as the&nbsp;Stone Bridge and the&nbsp;crumbling ruins known as the Halls of the Hunting Axe.&nbsp; The realm of Besilmer was something rare: a&nbsp;dwarven kingdom built on the surface, with its strength&nbsp;measured in fields and pastures. It prospered for a time&nbsp;but was plagued by trolls and giants. The dwarves were&nbsp;obliged to build a stronghold underground, carving out&nbsp;the fortress-city of Tyar-Besil a century after Besilmer’s&nbsp;founding. Unfortunately for the dwarves, the realm&nbsp;collapsed after its king and founder died in battle. Most of the surviving dwarves sought safer lands. The&nbsp;dwarven city beneath the Sumber Hills was abandoned&nbsp;by -4160 DR and then forgotten. Tyar-Besil slumbered in darkness for many long&nbsp;centuries, occasionally discovered and occupied by&nbsp;monsters or ambitious miners, only to be abandoned&nbsp;again. It came to light again in 893 DR, when a group&nbsp;of adventurers who called themselves the Knights of&nbsp;the Silver Horn discovered the ruins. Over the next&nbsp;six years they returned again and again, eventually&nbsp;founding strongholds of their own to safeguard the&nbsp;hidden entrances to the sprawling dungeon. The knights had some success in clearing small&nbsp;domains in the wild Sumber Hills, but only a few years&nbsp;later the powerful orc realm of Uruth Ukrypt arose&nbsp;nearby, and the Dessarin Valley became a battlefield.&nbsp;Trouble followed on trouble: the Orcfastings War,&nbsp;the First and Second Trollwars, and finally a series&nbsp;of vicious drow raids. By the year 942 DR, human&nbsp;settlements in the Dessarin Valley had been all but&nbsp;wiped out, and the Knights of the Silver Horn were no&nbsp;more. Their strongholds crumbled into ruin and became&nbsp;known in later years as the Haunted Keeps. Eventually,&nbsp;no one remembered who built them or why. The current wave of settlement in and around the&nbsp;Dessarin Valley began after 1000 DR, coinciding with&nbsp;Waterdeep’s growth from a warlord’s stronghold into&nbsp;a major city. The first small outposts that would grow&nbsp;into places such as Red Larch and Triboar were carved&nbsp;out of a wild and untamed land. People resettling the&nbsp;Dessarin Valley found the remains of “kingdoms of old”&nbsp;scattered here and there throughout the area." Bethendtur pauses, stroking his beard thoughtfully.&nbsp; "You may be wondering about the ruins I named earlier; the Halls of the Hunting Axe. I noticed several pairs of eyes light up at the mention of further ruins to explore. I would tell you more of this, but I will need my tomes and manuscripts first. If you could recover those, I would send you on an expedition."

Kambei and the others seem affected by the ordeal of their capture by the fire cultist. Days of torture under hellish conditions will wear on even the toughest of spirits. Even on the short journey home his eyes seem vacant as he stares straight ahead. Once they make it to Feathergale Spire, Kambei tries his best to conceal his scars both physical and mental but the attempt is futile. Dibble tries to talk to him but he only mutters a word or two and walks away. After sever times trying to get him to open up Dibble decides it is probably best to give him some time. Kambei wanders the halls for hours and finds himself at the top of the Spire. Standing there on the edge of the tower starring into the valley below. A few moments later Leo comes to the top of the tower. It is sundown and he wants to give a prayer of thanks to his God for directing his companions to save them. It is then that he sees Kambei on the edge of the tower dangerously close to falling. Before he can say a word Kambei turns and looks at Leo saying, "I have failed, I have failed again, failed to bring honor to my house, my family. I was to be the great Kambei! Defender of the weak and yet I can not even defend my self from a band of fanatical cultists." "I tried, and failed...tell me friend. After starring into hell as we have why should we continue to stuggle against a merciless and relentless foe. Give me one good reason I shouldn't cast myself off this ledge into oblivion?" Kambei stands there stoically with his hand outstretched to his sides awaiting Leo's answer, ready to jump if he makes a move.

<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeJpkkaPyzk" rel="nofollow">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeJpkkaPyzk</a> As Leo climb to the top of the tower to pray to Torm for saving his friends and him from the evil fire cultists he sees Kambei there on the edge of the tower, asking him for reasons to keep going after they failed and went through hell. Leo starts to speak up as his friend asks for support: "I know we have failed, I know we have lost friends and have been through hell, suffered so much pain and gained alot of new scars, we have failed and will probably fail some more in the future against such powerful foes; *BUT it is not about failure! what matters is that we get back on our feet and keep on going! people NEED us! as long as we are still alive we should not give up! for the sake of our friends, our family! So what if we have seen hell itself, that just means you know what will happen if we give up! So stop with all this talk about failure, pick up your sword and lets show these cults that our Will will NOT be broken so easily! Show 'em what THE GREAT KAMBEI can do!!" *as Leo gives the speech he uses his last powers to cast heroism on Kambei to keep his spirits high.* Leo fall down to his knees after he finish talking as the exhaustion starts to catch up to him, he looks at Kambei with a bruised face and smiles "Lets get some sleep, shall we? We've got a lot of work to do..."

Leo's speech carries much weight and is indeed quite inspiring to Kambei. The heroism spell washes over him like a wave nearly having the negative affect of pushing him off the edge. Looking at Leo exhausted and truly heartfelt words he says to him. "Perhaps it is your purpose to inspire hope in those who have none. Your god is indeed a powerful one. Even now I feel compelled to fight the good fight." He knells down to pick up his Swords Sun and Tzu turns to the valley and says. "I know you mean well but to continue knowing your family has given up on you is too much for me to recover from." Kambei then throws Sun and Tzu off into the valley. Leo tense gets in a sprinting position ready to desperately attempt to close the gap and grab Kambei should he decide to follow. Kambei then says "Goodbye, my friend" and leaps from the ledge. Leo springs into action like a lion lunging for Kambei he barely manages to grab his wrist. Leo says "I will not give up on you Kambei. Don't you give up on me." Kambei's limp body weights heavy and the exhausted Leo's grip is slipping. Kambei, "Why can't you just let me go? I will only drag you into the abyss with me." Leo "If you go, I go." Kambei sheds a tear then kicks off of the wall to break Leo's grip, but this has the unfortunate effect of pulling him off with him. They begin to plummet to their doom. Level after level of the tower speeds by faster and faster. Two Aarocora see the event and dive toward the two victims who are now halfway down to the bottom. They each grab one but are unable to slow either of them down. Leo calls to Torm to give the bird men strength. Then Kambei shouts to the Aarocora "I am too heavy save my friend." Before Leo can protest they both manage to grab him and slow his decent. Leo looks on wishing he could have done more or said more. Kambei speeding to his death passes the final level where the Griphon is kept the young beast looks out at the falling man with a curious tilt of his head. Kambei turns to see the ground quickly approaching and realizes one of the Griphons feathers is stuck to his chest. &nbsp;He grabs the feather and thinks about the token feather given to him by Aiko, one of his court. She told him "This a token of my loyalty to you. Like the hawk my admiration for you will soar high. And like the hawk I will watch over you always." Weather it was the spell of heroism or the inspirational speech given by Leo, his purpose suddenly became restored. Fate was on his side this day as he cast featherfall just before he struck the ground, he does a front flip landing in a warriors pose as he summons Sun and Tzu to his hands. Kambei, "Leo is right I can't give up. I must find out what really happened to Aiko, Kenji, and Daisuke, my...family." Leo looks on with a great sigh of relief and says....(Drizet fill in the blank) <a href="https://youtu.be/k40EF0l8_fM" rel="nofollow">https://youtu.be/k40EF0l8_fM</a> his spirit is like Kambei but fights like Kyuzo

"Looks like you have found your reasons" with a relieved smile, "there's always hope, you just need to look a little bit, and I'll always be there for you if you need some guidance and support!" Leo starts to scratch the back of his head with an awkward smile "just let me know before you're going to do something like that again ey?" Leo stretch his hand foreward waiting for Kambei's handshake and response.&nbsp;

As the party was escorting the freed members of the Dessarin Alliance, Rinn was at the rear of the party. As they traveled back to Feathergale Spire, he watched them. It seems this 'Lorelei' and 'Leo' seemed relieved of this burden, maybe their divine powers gave them the strength to endure. However this one that goes by 'Kambai' seems a bit more troubled. Maybe I should keep an eye &nbsp;out on him. One doesn't easily get over being imprisoned easily, specially if they are keeping to themselves. "Maybe after some time I'll talk to him, Paladin's have their faith, he will need someone to converse with." Rinn quietly murmured to himself.&nbsp; As the party reached Feathergale spire, Rinn still kept his distance following in the shadows. He noticed Dibble was talking to him, or at least trying. Perfect, someone to keep him company, Rinn thought to himself. "I need to see what I can do about these fire's that are spreading." Rinn took off from the tower back to the sight of the blast. Fire's started erupting out in many different area's. Luckily due to the mountainous region and lack of lush vegetation the fire didn't turn into an out of control blaze. &nbsp;Rinn spent the next couple of hours summoning storms and rain clouds to snuff out the fire. Rinn slowly made his way back to Feathergale Spire covered in ash and sweat. The fires were completely out in some areas and dying out in others. As he approached the spire looking for a place to rest he noticed someone at the very top of the spire. Fear that it was the wayward 'Kambei' Rinn rushed through the tower &nbsp;pushing people out of his way to reach the top. As he reached the top he saw someone's hand clutching the ledge. As Rinn ran to the edge, the hand already slipped off and was falling. Rinn looked over the edge, to his surprise, it was Leo and Kambai that were falling. "Lets hope i can turn into an eagle this time." Rinn said as he was about to leap off the edge. Out of nowhere to shadows dashed past Rinn with blazing speed. They startled Rinn so that he fell back off the ledge. When he looked over the ledge it looked like two Aarakocra were already upon Leo, and it seemed Kambai safely landed on the ground. "Good looks like he wants to live after all that." Rinn let out an audible sigh of relief. As he looked down at his body he realized he was shaking. "I have nothing to fear, I CAN DO THIS." As he started to focus his form started to change. Feathers started to grow all over his body, as well as a beak started to grow from his face. He took the shape of a Giant Eagle. As Rinn started to look over his new body. He realized his wings were really heavy, and that he couldn't lift them to take flight. It seemed as though his wings were deformed and couldn't expand from his body. It seems my fear has deformed my shape. Rinn started to morph back to his normal form. When he was in his body he looked down upon his hands and clothes just covered in soot. Maybe I should clean up and let my mind. "How can others rely on me if I always have to take a break to learn something new..." Rinn turns around and leaps off the ledge of the spire. He starts to smile as he spreads his arms and feathers start to form. As Rinn opens his eyes again he can feel the wind beneath his wings. He pulled up and began to soar in the sky. As Rinn flew up higher he could see the amount of damage the chest caused. Sure a good portion of the fires are out, and the others look to be dying, but the&nbsp;devastation&nbsp;was hard to miss.&nbsp; Rinn flew back to the top of the spire, and reverted to his normal elven form. He went inside the spire in search for a place to rest his head.&nbsp;

Kambei wiped the sweat from his brow as he worked the forge. The constant ringing was an echo in his mind, day and night, alongside the heat. The heat he had learned to deal with. It was the constant ringing of hammer on anvil, the droning of the bellows, that he couldn't tune out. At least when he slept the painful burns across his body would melt into soothing darkness. But not the din of the forge. Then he saw her. Normally she simply passed through from one hall to another, escorted by her normal entourage of fire priests. But this time she walked straight up to Kambei. She had a beauty about her but it was lost on Kambei. It was not the manipulative, soothing type, but the malicious dagger-sharp kind of beauty that the tiefling wore. He had learned from the Azers that her name was Vanifer. "Kambei Shimada! Why cling to hope here? Nobody is coming for you. You'll spend your days at this forge and your nights writhing in endless agony. Where is your sword?" said the Tiefling, her eyes glowing. Then her face contorted in rage, her teeth becoming a mouthful of jagged spikes. Fire shot from her eyes and a gout of flame erupted from her mouth to envelop Kambei. "Where is your honor?!" she shouted through the fire as the flesh was seared from his blackened bones. Kambei sat up in his bed with a start, sweat soaking his body and blankets. Then he noticed someone else in the room. "I'm... I'm sorry to have startled you, my lord," muttered the girl. I heard you screaming in your sleep and I came to see what was wrong. I haven't been sleeping well, either. My name is Nayreen." She looked more closely at Kambei in the moonlight and her eyes widened. "Oh, you're not from the Sword Coast are you? Or even Calimshan? Your friends said... Kara-Tur? Is that right? You seem surprised. Yes, I knew them; Aiko, Kenji and Daisuke. We met at Rivergard Keep while I was enslaved by the Dessarin Alliance. I understand the Alliance has changed their ways, but I have yet to see proof of it." "I don't know what happened to your friends, but I will tell you all I know. The river rose up and demolished the Keep. I think it started in the Dark Stream. Maybe those cultists came back after all? I don't know. All I know is that Bern blocked the secret passageway for us while we all escaped. He... we never found him. I'll never forget him... I mean what he did for us." Kambei noticed in the moonlight that Nayreen's eyes were glistening and her hand went instinctively to her belly. "We wandered the hills for a time. A small group of slaves-turned-refugees. Except your people. They were very proud. But then some water cultists found us near the river. Kenji and Daisuke held them off while the rest of us escaped. I don't know what happened to Aiko. I suppose she stayed with them. The next day we were caught in some traps set by earth cultists, and you know the rest of the story - we were taken to the Temple of Black Earth. I'm glad the Alliance showed up when they did; I still shudder to think what Heldorm had in store for us. And I hope your friends are okay. We were on our way to Womford, it's my home town and I thought we would find shelter there. Maybe... if Daisuke and Kenji are still alive they made their way there. I wish I could help more."

Aerisi Kalinoth yawned at the scene before her. The captive earth cultist took his beating stoically, refusing to divulge any information. "Stubborn to a fault, are you? Well we'll just have to become more... creative." Just then a Howling Hatred Knight burst into the throne room, out of breath. Aerisi looked up, her brow furrowed in annoyance. "My queen," he said, bowing his head and dropping to a knee. She made him wait there for several long seconds. Then she sighed and looked away, "Yes, what is this intrusion? Report." He rose, still out of breath, "My queen, the Cult of Eternal Flame has made a move. The forest is on fire here in the Sighing Valley!" "What?!" She shouted, leaping from her throne and floating down toward the knight. "Is it an attack on us?" "No, my queen," he stammered, "They were stopped by the Dessarin Alliance just outside of Feathergale Spire. It seems the attack was meant for them!" Aerisi tittered, her laughter a music that echoed through the hall, "Vanifer thinks she can move in my territory and not include me in her plans? That little hussy!" "Indeed, my queen," the knight agreed. Aerisi's face contorted in rage and she spun on him, the tip of Windvane sinking into his shoulder. "How dare you speak of another prophet with that flippant tone!" She dragged the point back out and laughed again as blood spurted from his wound. "Windharrow, be a dear and bring up the Orb. We shan't let Vanifer have all the fun, shall we? Let's show the Dumb-dumb Alliance what happens when you mix fire with a nice breeze!" She giggled again. When the knight groaned in pain she snarled and stabbed the spear into him again, making the wound deeper. "Stop your crying, peasant! When your queen makes a joke you shall laugh!" The knight spurted blood as he tried to laugh. "That's better. Windharrow, see that this man delivers the orb... personally." Windvane:&nbsp; Windharrow: Nayreen looked up from her conversation with Kambei. "Did you hear that?" she said. What started as a low moan quickly became a shriek of wind and the tower began to shake...