Hall of Heroes Table of Contents Introduction ...... 2 Major Characters ...... 3-55 Adon ...... 3-4 Alias ...... 5-9 Bruenor Battlehammer...... 10-13 Cyric ...... 14 Doin Sanehiro ...... 16-18 Drizzt Do’Urden ...... 19-22 Dragonbait ...... 23-26 Elminster ...... 27-33 Kelemvor ...... 34-37 Prince Tristan Kendrick ...... 38-41 Midnight ...... 42-43 Robyn ...... 44-46 Shandril Shessair ...... 47-50 NarmTamaraith ...... 51-52 Wulfgar ...... 53-55 Minor Characters ...... 56-105 Adventuring Brotherhoods ...... 106-128 Credits Authors: Jeff Grubb and Kate Novak (Alias, Dragonbait); David Editing: Scott Bowles E. Martin (Adon, Cyric, Kelemvor, Midnight, Mourngrym Cover Art: Jeff Easley Amcathra, Shaerl Amcathra); Jim Lowder (King Azoun IV, Interior Art: Ned Dameron Akabar Bel Akash, Cassana, Dimswart, Mistinarperadnacles Typography: Kim Janke, Angelika Lokotz and Betty Elmore Hai Draco, Zrie Prakis, Olive Ruskettle); Bruce Nesmith Keylining: Paul Hanchette (Elminster, Narm Tamaraith, Shandril Shessair, Lhaeo, Special thanks to Scott Ciencin and Ed Greenwood Rauglothgar); Steve Perrin (Tristan Kendrick, Robyn, Alzegund, Khelben Arunsun, Fzoul Chembryl, Cyndre, Daryth, Duman, Finellen, Kappiyan Flurmastyr, Grunnarch, Hobarth, Kazgaroth, Maaril, Manshoon, Manxam, Mirt, Genna Moonsinger, Orgauth, Pawldo, Nymara Scheiron, Storm Silverhand, The Simbul, Sylune of Shadowdale, Vangerdahast, Xanathar); Mike Pondsmith (Doin Sanehiro, Jinchin, Kuang, Masakado, Okotampe, Onoye, The TSR, Inc. TSR Ltd. Wanderer); R.A. Salvatore (Bruenor Battlehammer, Drizzt POB 756 120 Church End, Cherry Hinton Do’Urden, Wulfgar, Alustriel, Catti-Brie, Dendybar, Artemis Lake Geneva, Cambridge CB1 3LB Entreri, Malchor Harpell, Piergeiron, Regis, Sydney) WI 53147 USA United Kingdom

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9252 ISBN 0-88038-711-4

9252XXX1401 INTRODUCTION

King Arthur. Robin Hood. Edward, the grail they seek would not be as valuable and the rest. Included along with their Black Prince. Roland. Joan of Arc... All without the doubt and hardship faced game stats, you will find personal histo- of these people, whether or not they on the way to recovering it. And if they ries, background information on ever really existed, have one very spe- stumble along the way, that’s fine, too; related characters, and even role- cial thing in common—they are all we don’t really expect our heroes to be playing hints. heroes. As heroes, all of these men and perfect. (Besides, they’d be rather bor- Next, you will encounter the minor women hold an important place in our ing if they were.) In the end, however, heroes of the Realms, those who have culture, and our hearts. For heroes we expect the true hero to see through yet to play a central part in a FORGOT- afford us all a roadmap to the heights the troubles that block his path and find TEN REALMS™ story. You will find the we can achieve, if only we work hard a way to reach his goal, whether it be evil characters here, as well, from Cas- enough and follow our dreams. Mithril Hall or peace for the Moon- sana of Westgate to Rauglothgar the What you hold in your hands is a roll shaes, by putting his beliefs into action. dracolich. For these characters, we call of heroes, and all of them call one On this front, however, the hero have given you game stats, brief charac- fantasy world—the Forgotten Realms— would be nowhere without a worthy ter histories, and role-playing tips, too. their home. These characters, like the opponent, someone to hide the grail in In the third section of the book, you’ll Merlins and Friar Tucks who are their an inaccessible place and try to prevent find information on two famous adven- literary great-great-grandfathers, show him from finding it. Heroes are nothing turing brotherhoods: the seemingly us magnificent feats of courage and without villains to challenge them. ever-present Knights of Myth Drannor, wisdom. You will find in these pages, there- and the Company of Eight from the Sometimes, as in Darkwalker on fore, the significant evil characters in module Empire of the Sands. All the Moonshae, the heroes are called upon our heroes’ lives. These beings are members of both adventuring compan- to right great wrongs that threaten a often the ones that started the hero on ies are detailed, giving you enough kingdom. Sometimes, as in the upcom- his quest. In every case, by opposing information on each member to run the ing Avatar Trilogy, the heroes are asked the hero, the villain made the hero group as well-developed NPCs in your to battle the gods themselves and save reach for new heights of strength and FORGOTTEN REALMS campaign. the entire world from certain destruc- wisdom. That’s one of the major reason the tion. The courage and skill necessary to Where would King Arthur be with- Hall was built: to give you all the infor- succeed in these adventures is obvious. out Mordred to thwart his vision of mation you need to include these Yet, all the beings who fight for Law Camelot? Where would Robin Hood be heroes and villains in your own AD&D® or Good included in these pages may without Sir Guy or the Sheriff of Not- games set in the Forgotten Realms. In not flash a sword with the finesse of the tingham to keep him working for the addition, we know you’ll find the char- evil swordsmen they encounter, or poor and oppressed? It’s hard to imag- acters you are not familiar with inter- throw lightning bolts with as great a ine. esting enough to want to read more fury as the archmages who oppose Fzoul Chembryl’s search for power about their heroism in the FORGOT- them. But it was not power alone that and Dendybar the Mottled’s quest for TEN REALMS products you’ve missed. made Shandril Shessair go on, even the Crystal Shard are really just as Finally, we’ve even thrown in previews though the whole world seemed against interesting as the goals of the heroes of some soon-to-be major heroes in the her in Spellfire. It was her spirit, her they oppose. They, too deserve a place Realms: the four heroes from the will to live and be free, as well as her in these pages. upcoming Avatar Trilogy, and the amazing powers, that let Shandril Of course there are thousands of heroes of a projected Kara-Tur novel. defeat all her enemies. heroes and villains worthy of induction The heroes you will find within the For the true hero, then the battles in to our Hall. Most of you have proba- Hall will inspire the player characters in fought with the spirit are as important bly played characters that might your campaign to be greater heroes as the ones fought with a blade or deserve a place there. But for now, at themselves. Just as assuredly, the vil- incantation. In Azure Bonds, for exam- least, the Hall of Heroes is limited to just lains found within these pages will ple, Alias’ battle to control her own des- some of the worthy of the Forgotten make your players strive to defeat tiny and understand her origin is just as Realms. them, if only to survive the encounter. important as her combat with the dark The monuments inscribed to the elite Use the material found here wisely and god, Moander. In fact, one battle with- of the Realms in these pages have been one day your characters, too, could out the other is really just empty brava- constructed with care and diligence. stand in the Hall of Heroes. do. Once you enter the Hall, you will find Of course, heroes have to be chal- three sections of entries. First, you will Jim Lowder lenged along the road to their goal. Per- meet the major heroes of the Realms: January 11, 1989 haps they even fail for a time. Still, the Elminster, Bruenor, Tristan Kendrick,

2 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Adon or unwilling to unleash his full powers, atop a pedestal; even if she climbs such as when he is relaxing or sur- down, he promptly puts her back up. ARMOR CLASS: 2 rounded by townspeople, he will His smothering optimism eventually MOVE: 12” attempt to use his spells to seize control drives to distraction any woman who Hit Points: 25 of the attacker. Once the opponent is spends any time with him. He is oblivi- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 safely neutralized, Adon tries to deter- ous to his patronizing attitude. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or mine if his captive is under another’s Relatives: Abrasax (father), Phylicia spell control, magical or otherwise. (mother), Phred (distant cousin). SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use If others are threatened, especially Allies: Kelemvor, Midnight, Cyric. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil women, Adon will rush to their assist- Patron deity: Sune Firehair. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ance. He will attack on sight anyone he Personal history: Adon was born SIZE: M (5’11”) sees abusing a woman. If this occurs the only child of Abrasax and Phylicia. ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good within a community, he will use his He was raised as a devout, borderline PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil remaining spells to make the malefac- fanatic, worshiper of Sune Firehair. His Fifth-Level Human Cleric tor see the error of his ways. If this father, Abrasax, had a pleasing smile S:11 I:9 W:15 D:12 C:12 CH:13 occurs in the wild, he will tie up or oth- and a shrewd business sense, and was erwise subdue the malefactor to insure considered a genius of management Armor: Plate mail, large shield. that person can no longer harm the pre- and investment. Abrasax made several Languages: Common, Elven. viously distressed woman. fortunes, which he quickly tithed to the Skills: Medicine, herbalism. Adon’s weak point is women. His ado- Sune church, keeping only what he Weapons of proficiency: Mace ration of them compromises his combat needed to maintain a suitable middle- (1d6 + 1/1d6), flail (1d6 + 1/1d6 + 2), war sense. He cannot move himself to attack class lifestyle. Phylicia was a gorgeous hammer (1d4/1d4). a woman. Even if she is trying to kill brunette with emerald eyes, a legend- Possessions: Plate mail, large him, Adon concentrates on parrying ary beauty with a quiet grace that shield, mace, war hammer, holy symbol her attacks rather than striking his own would be the envy of royalty. Unfortu- (on neck cord), holy water (four vials), blows. He always cedes the initiative to nately, she had a voice that would make notebook filled with poems he’s written a female opponent. If he unwittingly a demon cringe, a flaw to which she praising women. kills a woman in combat, he will try to was totally oblivious. However, Abrasax Experience points: 25,000. make sure she is resurrected as soon as and Phylicia remained the darlings of Money: Under 400 gp at any time. possible. society, as Abrasax’s financial acumen Spells: Adon can cast five first-level, However, if his own female compan- made him every bit as desirable of com- four second-level, and one third-level ions are threatened, he will fight com- pany as did Phylicia’s smoldering beau- spell each day. Spells marked below pletely unrestrained to protect them, ty. with an asterisk are ones he favors and battling to their side, then moving in Adon grew up in the midst of this almost certainly regains each day. front of them to protect them from fur- comfortable, pampered world, and his • First-level — Bless, ceremony, com- ther attack. parents studied him to see which of mand, cure light wounds*, detect Appearance: Adon is in his mid-20s their best traits lived on in their son. evil, detect magic, light*, protection and has fair skin, light brown hair, and They were disappointed in almost eve- from evil, sanctuary green eyes. Though he is plain fea- ry case. • Second-level — Detect charm, hold tured, he does everything he can to Adon lacked ambition, even as a person*, resist fire, silence (15’ radi- increase his physical atractiveness. He child. At an early age, he had realized us), snake charm, speak with ani- dresses well and even keeps his battle there was little need to work if every- mals. gear shiny. thing he needed was provided free of • Third-level — Cure disease, dispel Personality: Adon is very vain, charge. Study was equally meaningless magic, prayer. always managing to catch his reflection since the gods could instantly bestow Combat: Adon’s attacks differ great- in any mirror. He is sure that he can wisdom with their merest act. By age ly depending on the circumstances and raise his appearance up to his high self- 14, Adon was thoroughly set into a life whether or not women are involved. image. He is incredibly verbose; once he of enforced idleness, punctuated by Adon prefers to capture humanoid begins speaking, he is prone to keep social activities and brief periods of eat- opponents alive because the dead can- going until every possible listener has ing and exercise. not be converted. Since non-humanoids fled the area. He had physical problems as well. He cannot be converted, he atacks them Adon holds an unswerving belief in had somehow managed to inherit not with impunity. the perfection of womankind. He one of his parent’s attractive features. If Adon is attacked while unprepared believes each woman deserves to be Rather, he was the spitting image of

3 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Abrasax’s distant cousin, Phred, a man A desperate ploy by Abrasax to galva- sader in the service of Sune Firehair. His who had turned out to be a total failure nize Adon worked far too well and pro- parents were filled with happiness and in the jousting fields of love. Adon was, duced unexpected results. On the night regret. At 18, Adon became the young- in a word, plain. of his 15th birthday, the jaded boy was est cleric ever to graduate from the Abrasax despaired at the direction transformed into a fiery idealist. Think- temple of Sune, where he was schooled Adon’s life was taking. The boy’s pench- ing it was just a phase, Abrasax intend- in armed and unarmed combat. By 19, ant for luxury was slowly draining the ed that Adon would see the folly of his he was assigned to the temple in the city family finances. Abrasax found himself crusading spirit and finally begin to of Arabel. While there, Adon met Cyric working harder and tithing less. Even prepare to eventually assume the fami- and Kelemvor, and later the magic-user the ever-doting Phylicia was beginning ly business. Midnight, and together the four adven- to flinch when she overheard the mar- Instead, Adon came home and turers became central figures in the cri- ket gossip about her wastrel son. announced he would become a cru- sis of the gods.

4 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Alias known only as the Nameless Bard. The immortal. The Fire Knives, a group of bard was seeking a way to carry on his thieves and assassins which had been ARMOR CLASS: 4 songs and stories beyond his death, chased out of Cormyr, provided most of MOVE: 12” without fear of their meaning becom- the manpower and “acquisitions” Hit Points: 48 ing lost or corrupted. To that end, he required for the spells cast by Zrie and NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 and his assistants created a humanoid Cassana. A cult of a long-dead god, DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type “vessel” which was to contain that Moander, also called “The Jawed One,” SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil knowledge. The spells to activate this donated the energy needed to bring Ali- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil “vessel” went afoul, killing an assistant as to life. Lastly the creation needed a MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil and maiming another. Nameless was spirit and a soul. SIZE: M (5’10”) 140 pounds) brought before his fellow Harpers — an Cassana contacted a powerful ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good organization of bards, druids, and rang- demon, through what she believed to PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil ers devoted to maintaining The Bal- be the demon’s agent, a nasty-looking Sixth-level Human Fighter ance. He was found guilty of letting his halflingish creature named Phalse. S:17 I:17 W:17 D:17 C:17 CH:17 pride result in the death of others, and Phalse was no more a halfling than the for this crime, was sentenced to exile king of Cormyr is a centaur, but was Weapon proficiencies: All on another plane, deprived of his name, rather the demon himself, maintaining swords, dagger (thrown or wielded), and, worst of all, all his tales and stories a ruse to spy on the others in the alli- mace (both types), ax (both types), club, were eliminated from the records. This ance. Phalse was charged with bringing dart, all pole arms, lance (all types), was at a time when the North was less a pure soul into the mix, an innocent morning star, staff, weaponless combat. populated than today, so such actions who would be sacrificed to bring the Known languages: Common. were within the Harpers’ power. new vessel (which was to become Alias) Features: Green eyes, reddish- The Harpers were not as effective as to life. blonde hair. they thought in removing all trace of Phalse found his innocent in the form Magical items: Magical tattoos — A Nameless’ work from the Realms, for of the saurial paladin known as Dragon- set of twisting blue runes were once set once something is thought of, it is diffi- bait. The sacrifice was marked, as was into Alias’ right arm. At first glance, cult to unthink it. Eventually, a power- Alias, with the symbols of the alliance — they appeared to be part of a tattoo, but ful southern sorceress, one Cassana of Cassana’s insect squiggle, Zrie’s inter- closer inspection revealed they were a Westgate, happened upon the tale and locked rings, the jawed palm of Moan- set of magical sigils which affected Ali- discovered Nameless’ place of extra- der, the flaming dagger of the Fire as’ actions. The sigils originally bound dimensional exile. He was held at the Knives, the blue-upon-blue circles of Alias to the masters who created her, Citadel of White Exile, a rocky spur Phalse, and the last, no marking at all, but with their demise, these symbols located at the junction where the Plane symbolizing Nameless. Nameless have disappeared. The pattern current- of Gems and the Positive Material Plane learned of these symbols shortly after ly is a snaking swirl of thorns and meet. Cassana rescued Nameless, get- he completed his task, creating the his- waves, ending with a rose at the wrist. ting from him a promise to aid her in tory and background of the vessel, and The pattern cannot be removed magi- creating another vessel. Nameless, lone- putting his songs within it. Upon discov- cally. It will radiate a bright blue light if ly from long exile, feeling no loyalty to ering Alias had come to life before the a detect magic or similar divination the Harpers, and still vitally interested sacrifice of the saurial, and fearing for spell is cast upon it. in preserving his tales, agreed. his creation’s purity, he helped free her Cassana was an evil sorceress and and the saurial. When the others Alias’ Story recruited others of her ethical ilk to learned of his betrayal, they impris- perform the necessary magical opera- oned him beneath Cassana’s home in From the notes of the Sage Elminster, as tions. Nameless pushed his own doubts Westgate. told to the Master Bard Olive Ruskettle: about his new allies to the back of his Needless to say, the members of the evil alliance began to squabble amongst Alias was created by a group of pow- mind, glad only to be given a second chance to create his perfect vessel. themselves after this setback, and their erful individuals to act as a magical ser- Cassana’s allies included Zrie Prakis pact began to disintegrate as they vant, spy, and assassin. Alias was the lich, a former lover who was more began plotting to betray one another. intended to masquerade as a human, powerful than Cassana, but totally Alias and Dragonbait flew across the but to carry out particular actions over under her control. (Both Cassana and Inner Sea, to Suzail, capital of Cormyr. a particular time. Zrie have their own entries in this Alias was semiconscious at this time, The original conception for what book.) Using their magics, Cassana con- and remembers little of the voyage and became Alias was by an individual now structed Alias’ body, and Zrie made it nothing of her creation. When she

5 MAJOR CHARACTERS

rejoined her. Although Alias did not remember fleeing from Westgate with him, he seemed familiar to her, so she allowed him to come along as well. Each of the members of the evil alli- ance responsible for Alias’ creation had a different goal for her. Her motivation to achieve these goals ranged from a “strong desire” to do something to a mindless compulsion. The Fire Knives desired revenge against the king of Cormyr, Azoun IV, because he had banished them from his country many years before. They pro- grammed Alias with a pattern which would force her to attack at the sound of the king’s voice. It might have worked, if someone imitating the king, rather than Azoun, had not accidental- ly sprung the effect’s tripwire. Moander’s minions were trying to bring back the Realmsian incarnation of their god who had long ago been imprisoned in the ruins beneath Yulash. From them, Alias received a strong desire to go north and to work the nec- essary magics to free Moander. They succeeded in freeing their god, but Moander was in such a weakened state that soon thereafter Alias’ allies destroyed it. Nameless placed his songs within Ali- as, and with them the desire (whether intentional or not) to sing in Shadow- dale, in the heart of Harpers country, to show off to those who had imprisoned him. This too drove Alias north soon after her awakening. Zrie Prakis’ motives remain unclear, awoke (at the Hidden Lady inn in Suzail, because the runes were an inherent but he was apparently unhappy with where Dragonbait had left her), she part of Alias’ makeup and actively his undead service as Cassana’s slave, thought she had a “gap” in her memory, resisted all spells that attempted to and hoped to reverse the situation. Cas- taking up the space between where harm them. Magic could still affect Ali- sana was the physical model used to Nameless’ story stopped and her as, but it could not affect the runes. In create Alias, and Alias had all of the present situation began. Because Name- addition, the runes glowed a bright youthful beauty of the sorceress with- less had not “programmed” her with a blue when a divination spell was used out her evil madness. memory about the sigils, which were to on them. Cassana herself opted for a more vari- have been hidden before she was let Alias sought out magical and clerical able plan. She tied her symbol to the loose, it seemed to Alias that the strange aid and sagely counsel to solve her power of her wand, which also main- tattoos had suddenly appeared. Associ- problem, and in the process, was tained her power over Zrie Prakis. ating them with her memory loss, she brought into contact with the noble When within range of the wand (100’), set about trying to have them removed. halfling Olive Ruskettle and the trader Alias would perform Cassana’s bidding. Removal proved a problem, however, Akabar Bel Akash. Dragonbait also Cassana also saw Alias as a way of main-

6 MAJOR CHARACTERS

taining her own immortality, and allies. The sacrifice, held on the Hill of side force. The fact remains that Alias is intended to possess the woman’s body Thorns outside Westgate, was disrupt- as “human” as most of the natives of the (after the other members of the alliance ed by an attack by Alias’ friends, who Realms (and often more human than were dead, of course). had freed Nameless and come to her most). Phalse was perhaps the most farsight- rescue. But it was Alias’ own sense of After discovering her identity and the ed of all. He saw Alias as the first “trial will that broke the spell. Zrie and Cas- apparent destruction of all her creators run” for an army of similar creatures, sana were apparently slain in the battle, save for Nameless, Alias chose to 12 of which Alias and her allies discov- along with all the remaining Fire remain a wanderer. She is usually ered, not yet brought to life as Alias had Knives. Phalse fled through an extra- found in the company of her partner, been. Phalse intended to bend them to dimensional portal to the Citadel of Dragonbait. She can be found through- his purposes alone. First and foremost White Exile. out the lands of the Sea of Fallen Stars among Phalse’s goals was the full Alias, Dragonbait, Nameless, Akabar, occasionally as far west as the Sword destruction of Moander, whom Phalse and the underrated but highly talented Coast. regarded as his bitterest rival. halfling bard Ruskettle followed Phalse Alias is an adventuress, not a merce- All the plans of the evil alliance failed, to the citadel, where Phalse’s full plan, nary. She fights as often for the cause of however, in large part owing to the fact and the duplicate Aliases, were good as for any monetary reward. She that Alias unexpectedly proved to have revealed. The demon, which had aban- dislikes organized law and rules, how- a soul and will of her own, linked to the doned his halfling form, fought Alias in ever, and will bend or break them as saurial’s, but independent nonetheless. his true form, as a beholder-headed need be (and as Dragonbait will allow Thus she had developed her own per- man. Alias defeated him anyway, break- her to). She retains a dislike of clerics, sonality, one which attracted good ing the last visible hold the evil alliance which likely was initially patterned into friends to help keep her out of trouble had on her. After the disappearance of her as a way of dissuading her from when she attacked a Wyvernspur noble all the sigils of the evil masters, Alias seeking clerical help. She still regards whom the runes mistook for King reasserted her belief in part of the pur- them as book-banging fools who know Azoun of Cormyr. These friends also pose for which Nameless had designed nothing of the real world. accompanied her during her quest to her — restoring his songs to posterity. One thing Alias despises is slavery in discover the meanings of the runes and At that moment, in the space Cassana any form. Having been enslaved by ultimately destroy them. When she had left for Nameless’ sign, a blue rose arcane means herself, she has a pretty freed Moander’s Realmsian form, these blossomed. wide interpretation of slavery, and a same friends (the saurial Dragonbait, With the death of Phalse, the multiple complete enmity toward those who the merchant Akabar Bel Akash, and Aliases vanished, though whether they practice or tolerate it. the noble and highly underrated half- dissolved or were magically teleported Alias is very good songstress, well- ling bard Olive Ruskettle) recruited the is unknown. The idea of a dozen such versed and trained from Nameless’ own red dragon Mistinarperadnacles and women wandering the Realms, deadly experience. Most of the songs she destroyed Moander within a day. and excessively competent, disturbs the knows are ancient, those of Nameless The evil alliance’s attempts to recap- thoughts of at least one very powerful which were suppressed by the Harpers ture Alias included attacking her with person in the Realms. as well as many others forgotten over assassins of the Fire Knives Guild, a In the final summation, Alias has the long passage of the years. She also crystal elemental under Zrie Prakis’ proven herself to be, not some automa- writes her own tales now, and elabo- control, and a kalmari created by Cas- ton or golem, but truly a human, with rates on those she already knows. Her sana. All these creatures were defeated human emotions and values. She sings voice is perfect, and in the opinion of by Alias and her friends. Furthermore, Nameless’ songs, but changes them and one humble but incredibly talented these victories succeeded in further creates her own as well. While this halfling who has traveled with her, Ali- enhancing Alias’ will. Unfortunately, defeats Nameless’ original purpose, he as could become a fairly good bard, if during the battle with Moander, Alias has decided that the end result is better she could abide the training and disci- and her friends were all transported to than what he had hoped for. pline. Westgate, where they were finally cap- The reason for Alias’ power, ability, While Alias has the memories given tured by Cassana and her alliance. By and free thought is currently unknown. her by Nameless and the skills provided that time, Alias had already learned and Nothing in the plans of Nameless or the by the alliance, her body is still new- accepted her origin, and this strength- alliance accounts for her free will. It born and unhardened by experience. ened her character and her will as well. could be the strength of Dragonbait’s She will tire more easily than she A second ceremony was set up to sac- will which is linked to her own, or some “remembers” she did in her non- rifice the saurial and bring Alias totally unaccounted variable in her creation, existent past. Nonetheless, she has under the control of Cassana and her or the actions or some unknown, out- twice the endurance of a normal man.

7 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Similarly, she “remembers“ liking the commands or track down a target. are considered the property of their taste of alcohol, but she has a child’s pal- In both cases, automatons are consid- creators. In Waterdeep, letting a golem ate and resistance, so besides not really ered at best simple tools, no more intel- create havoc will result in the wizard or enjoying the taste of most alcoholic bev- ligent in their way than a hammer, a cleric involved in the golem’s creation erages, she is easily inebriated by them. pot, or a dagger. No one considers being held responsible for damages. destroying a clockwork form or defeat- Golems may be created in one of two Magical Life ing an iron cobra or similar creature to ways, either by investiture of large be taking a life. amounts of gold, coupled with a num- Being a treatise on the nature of autom- The next step up is the golem, an mag- ber of powerful spells cast by a mage or atons, golems, clones, simulacra, and ically created statue with a rude intelli- cleric of a particular level. Mages and other forms of magically created life in gence, ability to follow orders, and a clerics of lower levels may create the Realms, with special attention paid generally humanoid form. There are golems using a manual of golems. to the being known as Alias. four basic types of golem, three created Related to golems, but more primitive By Lhaeo, by magic-users, the forth by and for and closer in function to magical Scribe to Elminster clerics. automatons, are beings such as stone There have been experiments with guardians and caryatid columns. These The Realms are a magical place, filled other types of golems reported are primarily used as treasure protec- with a large number of creatures who throughout the Realms, but these tors and magical traps. are capable of using magic (men and experiments are usually unsuccessful, Another type of magical creature cre- elves), those who have spell-like or short in duration, or refer to other mag- ated by wizards is the homonculous. spell-mimicking abilities (beholders or ical creatures which are given the This creature differs from the golems mind flayers), those whose origins as a “golem” name (such as the bone golems in that it requires a second individual, race are the result of magic (owlbears of Calimshan). in this case an alchemist, to create the and perytons), and those who are cre- The three magical golems are, in final creature. In addition, the homon- ated specifically from magic and increasing order of power, flesh, stone, culous is mentally linked to the wizard, enchantments. This last is the subject and iron golems. The flesh golem is a knows what the wizard knows, while in for this discussion, and includes crea- reanimated and strengthened creature turn, the mage can see and hear tures such as automatons, golems, of human and humanoid flesh. Stone through the creature’s eyes and ears. homoculi, some weapons, clones, golems and iron golems, on the other Being mentally linked to the mage, simulcrums, and, at the topmost part of hand, are statues created of the appro- the homonculous is more versatile than the scale, the being called Alias and her priate material. These last two are occa- golems and other constructs. This men- sisters. All of these may be referred to sionally used in siege warfare, but more tal link is 1,440’ in range. If the homon- by the moon elven term of Qua’sioh — often used, along with the flesh golem, culous is forced beyond this range, the in Common, “made life.” as guards or protective devices. Iron creature goes into a hibernating state The simplest form of Qua’sioh is the golems tend to be larger and more pow- until the link is reestablished. automaton, a device which performs erful than stone golems, but one of the Homonculi are relatively rare in the certain functions by mechanical or largest stone golems is the Walking Realms, and then only found amound magical means according to a set time- Statue of Waterdeep, which was cre- high-level magic-users. This is because table. For example, there is a mechani- ated by Khelben Arunsun to protect his the death of a homonculous will result cal clock in Luskan which, on the hour, city. The statue is 90’ high, and made of in massive internal and mental damage displays a scene of automaton warriors gray granite. to the mage to which it is linked, mak- battling against an automaton dragon, The one successful clerical golem is ing it one more vulnerability for a class In this case, all the autmatons are con- the clay golem, built of inanimate mate- which is already plagued by poor trolled by rods and pins running back rial, much like the stone and iron armor class, low hit points, and poor into the clock itself, and the spinning of golems. Unlike its magical brethren, the weapon proficiencies. the clock’s mechanism powers them. clay golem has a chance of going ber- Legally, even more so than golems, Another form of automaton is the serk in combat and trying to slay all liv- homonculi are considered to be an Iron Cobra of Thay, though the origins ing things in the area. For this reason, extension of the creating mage’s body of the creature seem to be from further such creatures are used primarily as and persona, such that actions per- east along the Inner Sea. This creation guards of temples and shrines in little- formed by the creature are considered is an obvious imitation snake made of a populated reaches. to be actions performed by the mage in dark, unknown metal. As opposed to All golems follow simple verbal com- most courts of law. If a homonculous being controlled by rods and pins, the mands, and are treated as humanoid, if steals, for example, in the streets of iron cobra can react to simple verbal unintelligent, creatures, and usually Waterdeep, the mage is held responsi-

8 MAJOR CHARACTERS ble and must pay the penalty for such individual upon which it is modeled. other planes, suicide missions, and actions. A simulacrum is an imperfect copy at wars. As quests, curses, and geases As an aside, a similar legal approach best, as its knowledge is incomplete and transfer over to these new individuals can apply to a magic-user’s familiar, it cannot advance further in ability and as well, so too do any pronouncements whom, while not a creation of the level. As a result, this spell is rarely used against the individual — a clone of a magic-user, is a creature which is in the Realms, and then only for partic- man sentenced to death in Cormyr bound to the mage in a similar fashion. ular specific reasons, such as the desire would still be hung, even if his prede- Such legalisms do not apply to to regain knowledge or power from a cessor met a similar fate. enchanted magical items, such as dead party member when there is no This brings us at last to Alias, a magi- swords and the like, which have some other spell available, or some deception cal creature which displays a high level form of intelligence. The development is planned using the simulacrum. In one of human characteristics in an individ- of intelligence and ego among magical case, in old Teshendale, its ruler/wizard ual fashion. The exact spells involved in weapons is of disputed origin in the created a simulacrum of himself to rule Alias’ origin are unknown, save that Realms, with an apparent plethora of the land while he slipped the bonds of they required the combined power of methods used to endow these weapons leadership to pursue his own life. A sec- an elder god’s cult, a guild of thieves with magical intelligence. A number of ond wizard in The Living City once and assassins, two powerful mages (one ways have been provided, ranging used a host of simulacrums as lab assist- living, one undead), and a demon of from extra-planar endowments by ants in his work. “name”-level power. It may be surmised powerful beings to good fortune to cer- The simulacrum is a living, if magical, that a clone spell or some variant was tain dark rites (the last only used for being, but lacks the ego and sense of used in her creation, as she bears a intelligent weapons of Evil alignments). self-identity to set its own course. As as striking resemblance to Cassana, one of Whatever the origin, a magical weap- result, it is dominated by its creator, the powerful mages. Further, unlike the on is sometimes endowed with an intel- who, if crafty, can pursue the ruse for simulacrum, Alias has proven that she ligence and an ego. The last is an some time before someone discovers has her own will, and in this fashion is important addition, one missing from the situation. Legally, simulacrums are similar to an intelligent magical weapon the previous examples of magical intelli- treated variously as property, exten- —capable of exerting her own “ego,” as gence. A golem or homonculous, it may sions of the mage, extensions of the it were. be argued, has some mean intelligence, individual being duplicated, or new Whether it was through the develop- but lacks a will of its own. A magical beings with whatever rights are grant- ment of her own sense of will, or the weapon that has ego and intelligence, ed to sentient beings. interference of the saurial Dragonbait, however, may enforce its will on an Clones, on the other hand, are cre- is unknown, but the control, while ini- unwilling and/or unwitting user to fur- ated by an eighth-level magic-user spell, tially effective, diminished over time to ther its own ends or special purposes. and are almost always used to create a the point that she could resist the In some (thought not all) situations, this exact duplicate of an individual who power of those creators and make her- may be a mitigating factor in an individ- has since died and could not be raised. self her own woman. ual’s defense, if it could be proven that This is due to the fact that, in most situ- This magical non-detection does cre- the sword’s will, not the owner’s, was ations, a clone and its original stock can- ate problems for further research, as responsible for some attack or another. not exist simultaneously, and such an most divination spells do not function in This responsible and advanced view is existence drives one or both of the indi- regard to her, and the true seeing and held in Waterdeep, Cormyr, and the viduals insane. This magical form of true sight reveal her to be nothing more Dalelands, but is sadly lacking in most guaranteeing that one cannot be in two than an ordinary (or extraordinary) of the South, which tends to hold the places at one time tends to make legal mortal. This may be because she is a individual responsible regardless of the problems relatively simple. A clone is human in all respects, or may be a func- situation. regarded in most civilizations as a legal tion of the spells which created her. In There are two spells which duplicate heir to the previous individual’s estates either event, Alias has proved unwilling the form of an individual — simulacrum and rank, and is treated as the same to sit still for extended research into and clone. Simulacrum is a seventh- individual, much like an individual who her condition. level magic-user spell which creates a has recently received a raise dead or magical duplicate of an individual’s reincarnation spell. Clones have full form from ice and snow. Use of further legal rights, and are often used as an spells (reincarnation and limited wish) “insurance policy” for adventurers who allows the spell-caster to invest this are about to enter an area where form with motive power and some of escape and/or recovery of the body the personality and knowledge of the may prove difficult — including trips to

9 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Bruenor just try it out! Bruenor to swing it with one hand or As with everything about him, two. (Treat as a hand ax for one-handed, Battlehammer Bruenor’s equipment reflects this a battle-ax for two-handed.) ARMOR CLASS: -3 aspect of toughness. His battered and Bruenor likes options and new expe- MOVE: 12” bent field plate armor, finely forged by riences. He’ll often pull some outra- Hit Points: 112 Bruenor himself a hundred years ago, geous and very dangerous stunt in a NO. OF ATTACKS: 3/2 still holds strength enough to turn a battle simply for the thrill of it, though DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type giant’s blow, and his shield, embla- he almost always winds up better off (+1) zoned with the foaming mug standard for the risk anyway. Once he tied him- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Head butt of Clan Battlehammer, has taken a thou- self to a boulder, then hurled himself SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil sand hits. (The armor is +2 and the into two ogres, tumbling all of them MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil shield +1.) from the facing of a cliff. The rope SIZE: M (4’6”) But without doubt, the most beaten stopped Bruenor’s descent, and he ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good piece of Bruenor’s attire is his helmet; taunted the ogres as they continued PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil one horn is broken away and there are their drop to the bottom of the gorge. Ninth-Level Dwarf Fighter dents within its dents. That it still fits on But, though ferocious and deadly S:17( +1 +1) I:12 W:15 D:15 C:19 CH:15 his head is amazing enough, but when he has to be, Bruenor clearly dis- Bruenor sometimes even uses it as a tinguishes between opponents deserv- As classic an example of the dwarven weapon. The dwarf can head-butt an ing an immediate audience with their stereotype as you will ever find, opponent for 1d4 points of damage chosen god and innocents caught up in Bruenor Battlehammer grumps and while wearing the helmet, and 1d2 the middle of something they are pow- stomps around with a constant scowl damage bareheaded. erless to control. Gruff and surly, and stamped upon his face, and all the while If Drizzt Do’Urden is reckless in bat- nasty as a demon to an enemy, sporting a heart that is both loyal and tle, Bruenor is simply crazy. He wades Bruenor’s true character lies in an compassionate. He more than compen- into a fight face first, and is more than extraordinary measure of compassion. sates for his lack of height around the happy to take a hit if he can dole one out He truly lamented having to cut down bigger humans with an overpowering in return. Wulfgar learned this the hard Wulfgar on the field that day, and and dominating personality. When way when he and Bruenor first met, as moved on “shaking his head at the Bruenor speaks, people listen; and foes, on a battlefield. waste of one so tall and straight, with when Bruenor growls, smart people intelligent eyes to match his physical find a place to hide. “Ferocious as his heritage dictated, prowess.” In the aftermath of the battle, His brow is ever-furrowed in his though, the youth (Wulfgar) showed no when he returned to the side of the hill scowling facade, bushy red eyebrows fear, and Bruenor’s hesitation had given and learned that the youth lived, he deepening the already deep set of his him the first swing. With deadly accu- chased away anybody who meant to pale gray eyes. Fiery red, his beard racy, he slammed his standard pole see the boy dead. Then Bruenor, the stands out a mile away, and his long and down onto his foe, snapping it in half warrior and hero of his clan, took the pointy nose sticks out above it like the Tough as the mountain stone he mined, boy under his protection, and nurtured handle of a bushy mop. Bruenor put his hands on his hips and him back to health. Wulfgar had come Actually, Bruenor is large by dwarven glared up at the barbarian, who nearly to Ten-Towns with his people that day standards, standing a good 4½’ tall and dropped his weapon, so shocked was to plunder and destroy, but Bruenor possessing a solid 175 pounds of gnarled he that the dwarf still stood. had to discover if his initial observa- muscle. There is a texture about him, a ” ’Silly boy,’ Bruenor growled as he cut tions about the inner character of this hardness that gives the impression of the youth’s legs out from under him. barbarian were correct. rooted strength, like mountain stone. ’Ain’t ye never been told not to hit a In the unfathomable scheme of the Even his fellow dwarves shake their dwarf on the head?’ ” fates, that single act of mercy became heads in awe of his toughness. “Sure that — from The Crystal Shard the salvation of Ten-Towns a few years ’is head be the perfect mold for ham- later. merin’ bowl or shield,” they whisper of He is a slugger, snarling and growling, And a friendship of one-time enemies Bruenor — behind his back, of course. and customarily teasing his opponents began that will live on forever in the Not that they believe that Bruenor with a belittling song or rhyme while songs of the bards of the Forgotten would take offense, and certainly none hacking away with his many-notched Realms. is intended, but they fear that if Bruenor axe. The weapon, too, is a product of Of course, Bruenor is always quick to ever got wind of the notion, he might the dwarfs own handiwork. It is +3 deny any such emotions, but his list of and specially weighted to allow kindhearted deeds runs too long to be

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ignored and grows proportionately as the years pass by. He befriended Drizzt Do’Urden when Drizzt had no other friends, and when a goblin raid on the town of Termalaine left the human child, Catti-brie, orphaned, Bruenor took her in and raised her as his own. And Catti-brie did not suffer for any lack of love from her adoptive father. Yet even these acts the dwarf passes off as simple good sense, talking of the bene- fits of having a ranger roaming the out- skirts and watching over his clan, or of bringing in the orphaned girl because he needed a helping hand around his house. “Ye do what ye has to do!” is his motto, and he lives in full accord with it. But part of what Bruenor “has to do” involves fol- lowing the instincts of a generous heart. He can deny it to the world, even to him- self most times, but his closest friends know better. And though he is constantly complain- ing, Bruenor is actually quite content with his existence and generally takes whatever hardships befall him as minor inconveniences — then fights back like a ravenous wolf against whatever, or whomever, is instigating the problem. In all the hard times of life on the frontier — the monsters, the rogues, the meager living — there is only one nagging problem that Bruenor cannot shake. He wants to go home. He was the son of Bangor, and the grandson of Garumn, king of Mithril Hall. Clan Battlehammer did not always reside in Icewind Dale, in the middle of the three-lakes region that harbors Ten- Towns. They marched in less than two Their works were the rave of the Garumn that the mines were cleared. centuries ago, a ragtag band of refugees North, commanding incredible profits, But the word never came, and any who simply looking for an honest way to sur- and their mines were so well hidden went in search of answers to Mithril vive. Bruenor was an unbearded child that no enemy could lay any claim to Hall never returned. then, but now he is the last in all the the rivers of the silvery metal. And so the refugee road led Clan Bat- Realms who remembers the splendors of But the dwarves delved too deep, into tlehammer to Ten-Towns, and the Mithril Hall, his ancient homeland. holes dark enough to open a rift to the dwarves set up their forges and Clan Battlehammer counts fewer Plane of Shadow. And dark things crept worked for the fishermen. A sorry than a hundred heads now, but at its through. existence for craftsmen who had height, it numbered more than 10,000. The end came swiftly. reached the very pinnacle of their art. The mines, rich with the precious And when the rout was complete, The older dwarves died away in mithril, rang out in the hammering fewer than 300 of the 10,000 remained despair, the youngest forgot what had song of the dwarven gods, and even the alive: the very young, the very old, and been. But Bruenor remembered. If Ban- poorest members of the clan had the very weak. They spent many gor and Garumn were dead, he was the enough wealth to spend long, leisurely months at the nearby dwarven city of king of Mithril Hall, and his vow from days crafting a single shining item. Settlestone, awaiting word from the very first day after the routing of

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Clan Battlehammer was to one day lost days of the finest magics, a throw- enough together to lend support in the return to the secret mines and reclaim back to the skill of the dwarven masters first days, or even hours, of a battle. what was rightfully his. who once pounded the anvils forging Though as plentiful as they are now, the But the heartbroken elders of his weapons for the gods themselves. But various orc tribes in the region learned clan, lamenting the despoilment of all for Bruenor, Aegis-fangmarked the end quickly to avoid the tough dwarves. of an era. It represented the pinnacle of that they had ever built, would not “Delzoun was a rich and proud land, his work, the highest he could ever think of returning to Mithril Hall, and, perhaps the height of dwarven power; hope to achieve. And, satisfied, he nev- thinking that they were acting in his its smiths crafted intricate and beauti- er fired his forge again. best interests, would not tell the inquisi- ful mechanisms to ease every task; the And with the dying of Bruenor, the tive young Bruenor anything that great dwarven families grew rich and smithy, came the rebirth of Bruenor, would help him find the way. famous, and gold shone everywhere A passing century, and then the bulk the rightful king of Mithril Hall. He about the persons and homes of the of another, did not quench Bruenor’s sensed that the time had come. His fel- dwarves of Delzoun. The dwarves thirst for revenge. Yet he knew his low dwarves thought him crazy for ranged across the North, building even thinking of leaving the fine life dreams of returning to be futile, for he homes for themselves and (for hire) for had no idea of where the halls might lie, they had carved out of the savage wil- men, and their work endures still. They derness, but respected his loyalty to and so well had his clan kept the knowl- were a happy and hearty people. That edge private, that no one at all had their heritage and his rank among their is all gone now.” more than the slightest hints of where clan, and volunteered to follow him from Waterdeep and the North to begin looking. Many came to believe wherever he chose to go. — by Ed Greenwood that the whole legend of “the halls But Bruenor sought other company for where the silver rivers run” was a ruse the initial journey. His kin could claim It wasn’t orc tribes or any other ene- to cover a marketing trail from some their rightful place after the halls had my that brought the downfall of Del- southern city, and many others, believ- been found, but the search required skills zoun. The Northkingdom came into ing in the lost treasures, set out to find they did not possess. For years Bruenor being out of necessity; in the untamed the place, only to return months, or had been teasing Drizzt into making a land, only mighty numbers could guar- even years later, wondering if the skep- commitment to join him on his quest, and antee survival. But as the Northland tics had been correct. finally, with Bruenor feigning a deathbed grew more populated (though not nec- Bruenor remained undaunted in his scene, the drow agreed. essarily more civilized!) and new mar- desire, but he kept patient, waiting for And so the Companions of the Hall kets and trade routes opened up, many the opportunity to present itself prop- were formed, first Bruenor and Drizzt, of the individual clans of the dwarven erly. He was as fine a smithy as any in and then Wulfgar, to their delight, kingdom saw options open before them the Northland, and a worthy leader of pledged to come along. Finally (and sur- for greater prosperity. his small band. And as Ten-Towns began prisingly!), Regis trotted up beside them Several smaller clans drifted away to prosper in the marketing of the ivory on the first leg of their road, and the from Citadel Adbar, the primary strong- from the precious fish, the knuckle- band was complete. hold in Delzoun, but two major divisions head trout, that swam the waters of the Bruenor could go home. rocked the Northkingdom beyond recov- three lakes, the dwarves did quite well. ery. Ironically, the dwarves viewed the They fought many battles against the About the Northland expeditions as a good thing, envisioning a numerous monsters of Icewind Dale Dwarves: dwarven empire stretching all the way to and carved out a wonderful complex of the Sword Coast. tunnels and halls beneath the tundra, The glory of the dwarves in the Forgot- The first division came about when and Bruenor engulfed himself fully ten Realms reached its pinnacle more Ilgostrogue Sstar left Citadel Adbar within his crafting work, creating his than 1,000 years ago in the days of Del- with nearly a quarter of the own fine armor, shield, and ax, and zoun, the Northkingdom of the Dwarves. Northkingdom’s population, 35,000 many other artifacts that distinguished Primarily mountain dwarves, these stur- grim-faced dwarves, his sights set on him even above the other skilled dy folk battled through the harsh envi- Mirabar and the claims of great riches smithies of his clan. ronment of the Northland and carved out in the area. By the time they had And then, for Wulfgar, the youth he mighty fortresses and prosperous mines crossed through the mountains north had defeated and captured and then in the area from the Ice Mountains to the of Sundabar, the orcs were striking at come to love, he created Aegis-fang. His Nether Mountains, and betweeen Silvery- them every day, and they were a ragged gods blessed him in that task. A war moon Pass and the Narrow Sea (now the troop indeed by the time they reached hammer of unprecedented strength, Great Desert). They were a concentrated Mirabar. They had left in their wake a Aegis-fang is a weapon worthy of the group at first, 150,000 strong and all close toll of dead orcs that could feed all the

12 MAJOR CHARACTERS carrion birds in all the Realms for a tional scarring the journey caused. Reclu- last note of an elven song is sung. hundred years, but their own ranks sive in the extreme, no non-dwarven had been cut nearly in half. Disillusion- races are allowed anywhere near their Roleplaying Tips: ment claimed thousands more in Mira- fortress, and even their fellow dwarves Sometimes abrasive, always opinion- bar as they traded the horrors of the share little with them now. When the ated, Bruenor is above all else, forward Northland road for a settled existence remnants of Clan Battlehammer made and direct. First impressions mean a lot within the safety of the city. their way to Ironmaster after the despoil- to him, and if someone initially gets on And the brutal trek had taken its toll ment of Mithril Hall, they were not turn- his bad side, it will take that individual a upon Ilgostrogue as well. Denying the fol- ed away, but they were looked upon with long time to change Bruenor’s outlook. ly of the adventure and fighting to tred such suspicion and disrespect that they No one will ever have to guess how they the deep waters of his own guilt, the clan- would not remain. stand with the dwarf, though. He’ll tell master was no longer content with Mira- Even more tragic was the second divi- them in no uncertain terms. bar. Consumed by his delusions of the sion of Delzoun, 300 years after Clan He usually has a sour word for every- grand dwarven empire, he drove the loy- Sstar’s departure, when Bunko Battle- body, but there is a distinct difference al remnants of his army forward, to the hammer led his clan to the southern in the tone of the sarcasm aimed at end of the Spine of the World and across spurs of the Spine of the World, just west friends and those insults aimed at peo- the pass of Icewind Dale. of Silverymoon, in search of reputed ple he does not like. When Regis slows Ilgostrogue died happy when he saw mithril deposits. In league with Clan Bat- down the Companions on the road, the sea, believing in his final delirium that tlehammer, Clan Ironshield followed, Bruenor might tell him, “If ye pulled yer his vision of the empire had come to pass. building the city of Settlestone south of belt over yer fat belly, ye’d find walkin’ But those left behind him understood the the mountains as a buffer market for the easier!” but if he didn’t truly like the true nature of their situation. Twelve secret mines of Clan Battlehammer. With halfling, his statement would be more thousand dwarves is a considerable the mithril deposits running thicker and on the order of, “Keep up, or get out!” force, but caught unsupported so very more pure than even the most optimistic A DM must be careful in handling this far from home, in a wild land where the tales would tell, these dwarves enjoyed character, and must always keep the weather can claim many more than the unparallelled success for several centu- dwarf’s high charisma in mind. orcs and giants combined, their future ries. But the bright light that was Mithril Bruenor is a positive grumbler, using was not so bright. Hall burned away quickly by a dwarfs his growling tactics to raise the per- Councils were called even as the first estimation, and compared to the 13,000 formance levels of those around him. cold blasts of the long winter began dwarves that originally left the He is never petty, and would sooner creeping into the land. The consensus at Northkingdom that fateful season, Clan walk away than get into an argument first was to return and set up around Battlehammer now numbers fewers than over some insignificant issue. And if Mirabar, as they had originally intended 100, and Clan Ironshield drifted apart when they had left Citadel Adbar, but and faded away, with individuals finding anyone, no matter their social standing or battle-prowess, calls him out over an Beerkanstrogue, son of Ilgostrogue, their own roads and their own homes in insult, he’s more than happy to oblige. planted his booted feet squarely upon the the growing number of cities in the His friends, and even new acquaint- ground and called for his kin to pay hom- Northland. ances, understand that they can count age to the vision of his father. And so the Citadel Adbar remains strong even on Bruenor to stand beside them to the dwarves, loyal to the last, worked as only now, with approximately 15,000 bitter end, and this undeniable loyalty dwarves can work, and constructed Iron- dwarves under King Harbromm, and and strength, and a pragmatic bravery master, their tribute to Ilgostrogue, in a Ironmaster, under Lord Clanmaster that leads him into battle against impos- rocky valley not far from where the clan- Strogue Sstar, houses 9,000. They are a master first looked out over the sea. They far cry from the early power of the sible odds with a resigned shrug and let’s-get-it-over-with grin, make the sur- have survived over the centuries — their Northkingdom, and bear a grim warn- numbers dwindling, though, to the ing for the future of the Forgotten ly side unimportant. And anyone who is around the dwarf present 9,000 — making pots and other Realms, a testimony to the vulnerability for any length of time might come to trading goods from the exceptionally rich of the long-lived races. Typically non- view his grumbling and roughness as a veins of iron ore that they found under prolific, the low birth rate among facade for the true warmness of his the rocks and the ever-frozen ice of the dwarves and elves simply cannot nature. Certainly his friends love him, tundra. replace the losses incurred through his fellow dwarves revere him, and They have never forgotten their terri- constant battling with the goblinoids. even his most hated enemies respect ble ordeal, though many of the details And woe to the Realms, for a barren him and avoid the wicked low cuts of have been distorted over the years, and place it will be indeed, when the last ring his fell ax. the real tragedy of Clan Sstar is the emo- of a dwarven hammer is rung, when the

13 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Cyric and secretive. He is not proud of his became a cynic as he realized that past. He wants to bury it all and become everyone was truly alone; the gods ARMOR CLASS: 1 (9) a warrior, but his past keeps resurfac- could not care less if any one person MOVE: 12” ing. Cyric is also a loner. He values free- lived or died. He taught himself how to Hit Points: 14 dom above all else and finds most survive, first in the wild, then in the NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 relationships far too restrictive. city. He became an effective street thief DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type Still, he has his good traits. He has an and even managed to acquire a knife. (+1) endearing sense of humor and a quiet He also managed to acquire the atten- SPECIAL ATTACKS: + 1 to hit eloquence that cuts to the heart of the tion of the Thieves’ Guild. When they SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil matter. kidnapped him into their midst, Cyric MAGIC REISTANCE: Nil Relatives: None. won their approval and support. He SIZE: M (6’) Known allies: Adon, Kelemvor, proved a fast learner in the thiefly arts. ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil Midnight. He went independent in his 16th year. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Patron deity: None. For the next eight years he used his Third-Level Human Fighter Home: Zhentil Keep (birthplace), skills to indulge in his one passion, trav- Fifth-Level Thief Sembia (childhood home). el. He found that people were the same S:17 I:11 W:10 D:15 C:15 CH:15 Personal history: Cyric was born wherever he went. He cynically in the filthy back alleys of Zhentil Keep. observed that poverty and inequality Armor: Plate mail, small shield. He never knew his parents. When he were as universal as luxury and splen- Languages: Common, Thieves’ was older, he pieced togther some of his dor. He became contemptuous of the Cant. origin. His mother was a young woman middle class and the work ethic. His Possessions: Plate mail, small who was madly devoted to a Zhentarim thieving filled a philosophical need to shield, long sword, short sword, dag- officer. The officer rejected the wom- lash out at society. ger, hand axe. an’s claim of paternity and cast her out. At 24, he realized that, despite his Weapons of proficiency: Long She fell in among the beggars and adventures thus far, he had not made a sword (1d8 + 1/1d12 + 1), short sword homeless, who cared for her and single mark anywhere and lacked a (1d6 + 1/1d8 + 1), dagger (1d4 + 11 helped her through the delivery. Later, direction for his future. He returned to 1d3 + 11, long bow (1d6). the officer returned and murdered her. his past. Secretly returning to Zhentil Experience points: 6,000 as fight- He sold the infant Cyric to slavers. Keep, he learned the details of his past er, 14,000 as thief. Cyric was bought and freed by a and may have encountered his father. Money: 12,000 gp (as individual, wealthy Sembian family. They raised However the man was killed before mostly in high-value gems). him as their son in a life of privilege. Cyric could learn more. Combat: Cyric is +1 to hit and dam- They were very forgiving and lenient, Cyric left Zhentil Keep at that time, age. His high dexterity lowers his armor perhaps too much so, for Cyric always convinced that he had to abandon his class by 1. felt a bit different from the other chil- life of thievery. He became a fighter and Cyric is cautious about joining in com- dren. He constantly tested the limits of worked for causes he thought were bat; he is very aware that getting killed how far he could go. good. Over the next five years, Cyric is a sure way to frustrate one’s ambi- He was an intelligent child who was an adventurer of little repute. He tion. However, once he commits to the devoured new learning the way other was, however, happy during this time, battle, he becomes a furious fighter. children consumed sweetmeats. He as he enjoyed the freedom afforded Appearance: Cyric’s lean appear- was most interested in geography and him as a member of a wandering party ance belies his strong, quick body. His the customs of far-off countries. of heroes. face is equally suited to sly, mischievous When he was 10, he learned of his One of Cyric’s acquaintances during humor or frightening dark moods. background when he overheard his those years of adventuring was a mer- Crows’-feet surround his eyes, though parents arguing about him. He ran cenary named Kelemvor, who eventu- he is only in his late 20s, and his hair is away from home, but was caught and ally convinced Cyric to join the guard in brown. returned by a civil patrol. Cyric’s angry Arabel. There Cyric also met Adon, a He prefers dark clothing and strong protestations at being returned eventu- cleric of Sune Firehair. Together, Cyric, armor. During his thieving days, he ally spread the truth of his origin, and Adon, and Kelemvor worked for Myr- wore a blackened leather chest plate his parents became social outcasts. meen Lhal, keeping the peace in her and carried a short sword. As a fighter, When Cyric ran away again at age 12, land. he preferred a combination of chest no one stopped him. plate and mail. Cyric almost died as he faced the Personality: Cyric is mysterious world alone and unprepared. He

14

MAJOR CHARACTERS

Doin Sanehiro ored by the blood of demons, and his lord of Shiramura assigned several of name lost forever among the screams his retainers to arrest and detain this MOVE: 12” of his dying companions. upstart monk. When these and other Hit Points: 61 In his youth, Sanehiro was a cunning retainers vanished without a trace, it DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or fighter, not a skilled one. His tactics became obvious that Jinchin was more spell were those of the battlefield and the than a mere holy man, and that his goal SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use wine shop brawl — he was just as likely was nothing less than the absolute con- SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below to knee an enemy in the stomach as use quest of the Land Beneath Heaven. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil his blade. His swordsmanship was the By the new year, Jinchin had gath- SIZE: M (5’6”) hard-won skill of hundreds of fights, ered a great army to himself. Originally PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil beginning as a low-ranked samurai in formed of ronin (masterless samurai) Fifth-Level Shukenja his youth, and progressing through a dissatisfied with the current regime, Eighth-Level Human Samurai lifetime of campaigns under his dai- this vast horde gradually began assimi- S:14 I:12 W:16 D:13 C:16 CH:14 myo’s command. lating even less reputable recruits: brig- As he matured, Sanehiro’s greatest ands, criminals, sorcerers, and the like. Proficiencies: Calligraphy, eti- victories came not through the Way of Soon, it was rumored that the very quette, horsemanship, reading/writing. the Sword, but by the Way of the Pen, fiends of the Underworld had joined Commonly used spells: Bless, acting as an administrator and head of Jinchin’s ranks — there were tales of detect evil, deflection, aid, trance, the Samuraidokoro (samurai board) for twisted, many-legged shapes which dream sight, castigate, abjure, remorse, Kanazaki Province. In this capacity, he stalked the night, of terrible undead cure critcal wounds, flame walk. oversaw the training and ranking of the creatures and obscene meldings of man The carpenter sees not the wood, but clan’s samurai retainers, working long and beast. This was the legacy Jinchin’s the sword within the wood. Likewise, hours to ensure that they were the fin- army left behind it, as inexorably, it the enlightened soul sees not the man, est possible. crushed its way through the besieged but the hero within that man. Sanehiro’s battlefield experience Shiramura forces and spread a fell served his lord in other ways. While not shadow over the province. The Legend of Monkey a brilliant military tactician, his knowl- At the battle of Kiroshina, outnum- At first glance, Doin Sanehiro is not edge of strategy and practical warfare bered 4-1 and facing a monstrous host the stuff of which heroes are made. made him an opponent to be reckoned of oni, bakemono, and other sorcerous While taller than most of the Koza- with. Even in the fatal battle of creatures, the samurai armies of Lord kuran race, he is only 5’6”, although he Kiroshina (which cost Sanehiro’s lord Shiramura fell, leaving the province is well muscled and has a full head of his life), this hardheaded samurai’s tac- under the iron boot of the evil monk. It thick, gray-shot hair. His speech is sim- tical expertise enabled the Shiramura is not known how Doin Sanehiro ple, direct, and honest. His face is Clan to throw back the five of the six escaped being slain, although legend weathered and handsome in a rough waves of attacks — no mean feat, con- has it that he was knocked senseless by kind of way — women take to him. His sidering their forces were outnum- a mighty oni as he struggled valiantly to hands are hard from years of wielding bered 4-1. It was this loyalty to his lord defend his lord. What is known is that the sword. An educated man, well which cost Sanehiro all that he valued on the evening of the second bloody versed in the classics of literature, his most — his position, family, and good day, Sanehiro staggered to his feet to calligraphy is his special pride. His skill name. find his lord dead, and the Shiramura in settling disputes between rival clans armies routed. earned him the respect of samurai Sanehiro’s Fall Convinced by a fellow survivor that throughout the kingdoms of Kozakura. his duty lay in defending the Shiramura The year 256 found the Shiramura castle against the encroaching armies, In better times, he was well dressed Clan masters of the verdant rice lands (if not a bit conservatively), in the gray Sanehiro chose not to join his lord in of Kanazaki Province. Yet, within this death. Instead, he returned to find the kimono of his liege lord’s clan, pat- year, stories began to circulate of a terned with its distinctive hollyhock castle destroyed, his family murdered, powerful opponent to their rule, an and the monsters of the renegade monk symbol, and wearing two swords of itinerant monk named Jinchin. great honor and antiquity in his obi. But Jinchin crouched in the ruins. At first, this lay monk appeared to be While struggling to reach Shiramura now his beard runs rough on his chin, just one of many wandering holy men, and his garb is the simple robe of the Castle, Sanehiro was joined by a fellow espousing vague bits of theology and survivor of the battle, an amnesiac shukenja. For a fatal battle has left him the occasional prophecy. Gradually, as a masterless ronin, his swords dishon- (who would later be known by legends Jinchin began to gather a following, the as The Wanderer), and by an enigmatic

16 MAJOR CHARACTERS young physician calling himself Kuang. It was Kuang who convinced Sanehiro to again forego his pledge to join his lord in death, and instead to devote himself to bringing about Jinchin’s downfall. The Monkey Fleeing the forces of the evil Jinchin, Sanehiro and his companions fell into the company of two more travelers. It is then, according to legend, that Sane- hiro first took on the nickname of “Monkey,” in order to disguise his true identity. His new allies, Onoye (a spirit woman of considerable, if hidden, power), and Okotampe (a restless and argumentative hengeyokail, accepted this name (with a great deal of amuse- ment), although they soon learned Sanehiro’s true identity. Through his battles with Jinchin, it soon became evident to Sanehiro that his skill with the sword was no match for the monk’s sorcerously inspired abilities. While hiding among the tenju villages of the west provinces, Sanehiro gradually was convinced to learn the way of the shukenja — a way of sorcery and subtle power far greater than any blade. In keeping with his decision, the grizzled veteran put down his swords, took up the three-ringed staff, and chose to be known only as the Monkey from that time. As a shukenja, Sanehiro/Monkey much resembles his old self, although his head is shaved in the style of the priests of the Way, and his samurai garb has been replaced by the scarlet robe. when facing a battle, he will wear his temple. Two ancient swords adorn his waist; old samurai armor, rated at +2. Monkey is not a wanderer by nature; these however, are broken within their in most cases, he can be encountered scabbards, relics of his old life and his Dungeon Master’s information: within his home village of Tomobiki, last clash of blades with Jinchin. Sanehiro/Monkey is usually found in located in the south of Shiramura Prov- Instead, Monkey’s strength lies within the company of three individuals. ince. It is here that he has constructed a the towering oak staff he carries. The These are the hengeyokai Okotampe, small temple and dojo for the training staff, capped with the three silver rings the spirit woman Onoye, and the mas- of young shukenja. Monkey is particu- of his profession, enhances both Mon- terless warrior known only as The larly interested in those samurai who key’s saving throws vs. magical attacks Wanderer. He will often be joined by his have lost their lords through misfor- by +4 and his shukenja spell rolls by good friend Kuang, whose true identity tune or those who seek another path +3. is T’u Lung Prince Shin Gisen. In addi- beyond that of the sword. His main pur- Monkey normally wears no armor. tion, Monkey may be found with any pose, as he sees it, is to defend his small However, in time of great danger or number of villagers or acolytes from his village from outside harm. Those who

17 MAJOR CHARACTERS endanger the village or threaten its peo- Magical Attacks: Web, possess, While the Earth Spider cannot ple do so at the risk of his considerable hypnotism, detect invisible, transfix, directly reach into the world of men, it power. minor creation can reach out through the medium of If Monkey is encountered on the One of Sanehiro/Monkey’s greatest dreams. These dreams, linked to the road, it is a sign of trouble throughout adversaries is the creature known only spirit world, have great power. It is the land, something that threatens as the Earth Spider. This evil spirit through this medium that the Earth Spi- Kozakura on a grand scale. In these appears in the form of a huge black spi- der may entice or entrap its host. Its cases, he will most likely be gathering der, its twisted, multi-eyed visage meld- power can also kill. together a party of companions to ed with that of a screaming man. Dungeon Master’s information: defend the province or right a great The Earth Spider ruled over the Land The Earth Spider will rarely, if ever, be evil. of Men many centuries ago, until he was directly encountered by your player’s bound by the hand of the Celestial group. Instead, it will work through a The Earth Spider (A Great Emperor into the Realm of Mirrors. Here, variety of agents and hosts. Killing the Evil) he and his foul legions of insectile young Earth Spider’s host will not destroy the are trapped, unable to affect the Land of Earth Spider; like all demons, it must be FREQUENCY: Rare Men in a direct fashion. The Earth Spider slain on its home plane, in this case, the NO. APPEARING: 1 must instead take possession of a living Realm of Mirrors. Killing the host will ARMOR CLASS: -1 man and work its will through its host. only serve to banish the Earth Spider MOVE: 18” This process gives the host great powers for up to 1d6 years, during which time HIT DICE: 12 of sorcery, but eventually wastes him it will actively be seeking a new host for Hit Points: XX away to a non-living shell. its evil designs. % IN LAIR: 100% The Earth Spider cannot escape the The Earth Spider’s most dangerous TREASURE TYPE: Special Realm of Mirrors unless he can contrive, powers are those of the dream world. NO. OF ATTACKS: 2 in one way or another, to wed an inno- At moments when a player is asleep, DAMAGE/ATTACK: 2d6/2d6 cent female of the Wood Spirit people. the demon can attempt to reach SPECIAL ATTACKS: Surprise, grasp With the consummation of this unholy through his or her dreams and attack. MAGIC RESISTANCE: 50% marriage, he will be able to open a gate These attacks can be treated as the INTELLIGENCE: High from the Realm of Mirrors, releasing him- spells of mind control and power word ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil self and his minions into the world of kill, and characters retain appropriate Size: L men once more. It was to this end that saving throws as per their character PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil the Earth Spider, through his host Jin- class. The Earth Spider is the sworn chin, sought to capture Sanehiro and his enemy of the Imperial House; banished spirit companion Onoye. by an ancestor of the Emperor, it has The Earth Spider may take any one of never forgotten its enmity. As such, it three forms: its original, grotesque arach- will do anything in its power to cause nid form, the form of its current host, or harm to members of the Imperial fami- (should it escape the Realm of Mirrors) ly, the Shogunate, or those loyal to the the form of a comely male Kozakuran. Emperor’s government.

18 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Drizzt Do’Urden Because of his heritage and his agility, the foe instantly. Drizzt can hide in shadows, move For armor, he wears the fine chain- ARMOR CLASS: 1 silently, and climb walls as well as a link mesh (AC 5) of his people, though MOVE: 15” 10th-level thief. Likewise, his keen its magical properties (it was once +3) Hit Points: 77 hearing, sharpened by his daylight have long since faded away under the NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 vision problems, allows him to hear light of the sun. The chain mail is com- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or noise equally well. pletely unencumbering and unnotice- spell The statistics for his thieving abilities able beneath the dark green cloak that SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use, critical are: move silently 98%, hide in shadows Drizzt customarily wears. hits (see below) 88%, hear noise 35%, climb walls 99%. He is a perfectionist, in combat and in SPECIAL DEFENSES: Stealth (see below) (These stats are adjusted for racial and everything he does, striving to attain MAGIC RESISTANCE: +2 to saves vs. dexterity bonuses.) the highest standards within his code of magic When he left Menzoberranzan, the morality and self-discipline. Yet Drizzt SIZE: M (5’4” 1 lightless city of the underworld, Drizzt is careful not to impose his personal ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good retained some of the innate magical standards upon others. Kindly and PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil abilities of the drow. (See complete compassionate, he remains a valuable 10th-Level Elven Ranger description of the character race of ally to all the Good races, despite the S:13 I:17 W:16 D:20 C:15 CH:14 Drow in the UNEARTHED ARCANA harsh treatment he usually receives book.) Two spells in particular, dark- from ignorant people who can’t see his To have a black elf, a drow, roaming ness and faerie fire, often aid Drizzt in worth for the color of his skin and the the surface world of the Forgotten his trials. He normally conjures the 5’ reputation of his heritage. For Drizzt Realms is a rarity indeed, but to have radius globe of darkness to cover an believes in the brotherhood of the one championing the cause of good is escape or to blind a larger foe, such as a races, human, dwarf, elf, half-elf, half- rarer still. Yet that is the case of Drizzt dragon, and the faerie fire is employed ling, and gnome, and always views the Do’Urden, ranger and hero. as often for dramatic effect as to clearly world with sympathy and empathy for Drizzt is of typical physical build for a outline a target. For example, purplish the other person’s viewpoint. And thus, black elf: slender, around 125 pounds, flames sprouting from the skin of a he accepts his lot in life without com- with long and graceful fingers that per- superstitious and magic-hating barbari- plaint. fectly grasp the pommel of a weapon. an more often that not take the war- But Drizzt’s outward calm and com- While his black skin and white hair dis- rior’s heart out of a battle. Drizzt has posure are only half of his dichotomous tinguish Drizzt among the surface left more than one potential opponent personality. He is the peacemaker, the dwellers, his penetrating lavender eyes rolling in the dirt in a frantic attempt to level head in critical situations, always stand him apart from even his own extinguish the magical flames. willing to avoid an unnecessary fight if kind. Fiery orbs of passion and curiosi- Not that Drizzt needs these advan- possible. But when all of the options ty, their sparkle is strikingly visible tages, though. Few in all the Realms have been exhausted and a fight is even within the shadows of a low- could match weapons against Drizzt. unavoidable, a battle-lust burns within pulled cowl. Deadly with a longbow, but preferring the drow that makes even his closest But though the coloration and inner the face-to-face challenge of melee com- friends step back and shudder. He nev- glow are unusual for a black elf, the lav- bat, Drizzt fights with two scimitars, er allows his rage to blind him to the ender orbs are bound by Drizzt’s dark attacking three times each round and most advantageous path to victory, and heritage. In the night, they are as keen suffering no penalties “to hit” because that makes him deadlier still, but he is as a cat’s, and tuned to the dark, as are of his incredible dexterity. One of the ferocious in battle, a foe of blinding all of Drizzt’s senses. He needs no torch scimitars is a +3 frostbrand that he speed and unrivaled accuracy. to guide him, even in a lightless tunnel. took from the hoard of Icingdeath, the Furthermore, Drizzt is a ranger in the But in the day, under the shine of the white dragon that he and Wulfgar purest sense of the word. Where gobli- sun that his people do not know, Drizzt defeated. The other is a normal weap- noids and other giant-class creatures is at a disadvantage. Even when low on, but equally deadly in the hands of are involved, no fight is unnecessary. clouds darken the sky, the daylight the skilled ranger. So accurate are his His friends sometimes consider him makes him dizzy and his eyes ache wicked cuts, that if Drizzt’s “to hit” roll reckless; Wulfgar is fully convinced from constant squinting. exceeds the minimum required for a hit that Drizzt’s daring will one day get He manages, though, and accepts the by more than 5, he scores double weap- them into a situation from which they discomfort with his customary stoi- on damage and has a base 10%, plus or cannot escape. And even Bruenor, fear- cism. And his familiarity with the dark minus 3% per level difference between less and stone hard, shrugs in amaze- brings him an advantage as well. him and his opponent, chance of killing ment at his drow friend’s daring.

19 MAJOR CHARACTERS learned very quickly that he shared lit- tle emotional and moral characteristics with his evil people. He always hoped that he would find some redeeming quality in his people, some shred of evidence that things did not have to remain as they were, for the loyalty of blood ties runs strong in him. But at the same time, Drizzt feared that he might come to find himself more akin to their malicious way of thinking than he believed.

“He had always known that he was unlike his kin in many ways, though many times he had feared that he would prove to be more akin to them than he believed. Yet he was rarely pas- sionless, considering the death of another more important than the mere sport it represented to the vast majority of drow. He couldn’t label it, for he had never come across a word in the drow language that spoke of such a trait, but to the surface dwellers that later came to know Drizzt, it was called con- science.” — from The Crystal Shard Shortly after his 60th birthday, his passage into adulthood by the stand- ards of his society, Drizzt participated in his first surface raid. Accompanied by a score of his kin, he crept out of a dark hole under the nighttime sky of the Forgotten Realms. Before dawn, the party returned to the tunnels that would lead them back to Menzoberran- zan, but in their wake they left a massa- cre of elves — male, female, and children. The horror that Drizzt wit- nessed that fateful night convinced him beyond any doubt that he would one “The eager gleam in Drizzt’s eye gave stands his abilities. If the situation day soon leave his kin and not look Bruenor the impression that the drow presented itself properly, he would take back. had more in mind than watching. ’Cra- on a lair by himself. It would be a drastic step, for Drizzt zy elf,’ he said under his breath. ’Pro- And win. knew what type of life awaited him out- bably’ll take on the whole lot of ’em by Drizzt was born and spent the first 65 side of the protective borders of Men- himself!’ He looked around curiously years of his life in Menzoberranzan, a zoberranzan. The final outrage again at the dead giants. ‘And win!’ ” mighty drow city far beneath the sur- concerned an associate, Masoj Hun’ett. — from The Crystal Shard face of the world. He was a member of Masoj held in his possession a figurine the house of Daermon N’a’shez- of wondrous power, an onyx statue baernon, a prominent family, ninth in depicting a panther. Vile in the extreme, But Drizzt, always calculating the line of succession to the throne of the Masoj often brought forth the marvel- odds and searching out the best possi- dark city. Though similar to his kin ous cat, Guenhwyvar, to carry out his bilities, trusts in his luck and under- physically, except for his eyes, Drizzt senseless murders and tortures. Drizzt

20 MAJOR CHARACTERS had befriended Guenhwyvar, the cat the black cloud of despair inevitably was already hard at work skinning it. had even saved his life once, and he found its way over him. Then he met Still, the gesture did not slip past unno- could not bear to see the proud beast Mooshie. ticed. Certainly no love exists between lowered into such demeaning servi- Mooshie was old and nearing death the dwarven and drow races, but Clan tude. even as Drizzt found him in his secret Battlehammer of Icewind Dale, and It was the only time that Drizzt ever cave in a mountain in the Spine of the Bruenor in particular, put more store in killed a fellow drow, an act that revolt- World. Blind, the hermit could not a person’s actions than in what others ed him so profoundly that he vowed know that Drizzt was a drow, but tell them a person’s actions will be. To never to strike down one of his kin Drizzt would later come to believe that the nine hells with the reputation of the again. After his scimitar did its work, with Mooshie, his race wouldn’t have dark elves, Bruenor had found a coura- Drizzt took the statuette and fled, never mattered anyway. geous and loyal ally that day on the to return. Guenhwyvar, the entity of What Mooshie gave to Drizzt in the field. the panther, became his closest com- seven months that they spent together And Drizzt, at last, had found a panion, sharing the dark road as often was hope, a reaffirmation of his beliefs friend. as the magic of the figurine would per- and principles in the form of a goddess, As the years passed in Ten-Towns, mit. The two eventually made their way Mielikki, and a patron hero, Gwaeron and Drizzt’s list of heroic deeds contin- out of the tunnels of the underworld, Windstrom. A ranger himself, Mooshie ued to grow, and the true nature of his surfacing on the southern slopes of the recognized similar qualities in Drizzt’s character began to shine clearly Spine of the World Mountains west of character and dedicated the last through the predjudiced veil of his dark Mirabar. months of his life to training Drizzt and heritage, others began to see his worth. sharing the experiences of his long life. He still found himself shunned by the Guenhwyvar: AC 4; HD 6 + 6; hp When Drizzt buried the old man the vast majority, but Drizzt made several 45; Move 15”; 3 attacks: 1d4/1d4/ next spring, he resumed his nomadic trusted friends, most notably Regis, 1d12, plus rear claw rake for 2d4/ existence, but with a renewed bounce Wulfgar, and Catti-brie. 2d4 if both paws score a hit; Move in his graceful stride and a fiery glim- Let the rest of the world think what silently and hide in shadows at 95%; mer in his eyes. In discovering a god fig- they may, he has his faith, his cat, and Never surprised. The figurine can be ure in accordance with his own tenets, his friends. used a maximum of 24 hours total he had found a focus for his life. per week, and no more than three It was on the road outside of Mirabar On the Drow Elves separate summonings are possible. that Drizzt first heard of Ten-Towns. The frontier settlements of rogues and The drow elves, sometimes called the night elves, are not often seen by the They traveled throughout the smaller outcasts seemed to fit with the roleinto which he had been forced when he had surface-dwelling races of the Forgotten towns of the region, unintentionally Realms. This invisibility has led many of causing a panic wherever they went. come to the surface, and with hope for a more normal lifestyle, he made the the peoples, especially the short-lived Several times, Drizzt was set upon, but humans, to question the very existence understanding the protective inten- long trek around the mountains and through Icewind Dale. of the drow, or at least to believe that tions of his misguided foes, he never the dark elves have dwindled and faded really fought back. He would parry But when he arrived in Bryn Shander, he found little difference. Even the out- away to be of no serious threat. away the attacker’s weapon and deftly These assumptions are foolish and disarm the man, then move along on his casts of the mainstream society were not quick to welcome a drow, and once possibly dangerous. Drow rarely way. appear on the surface simply because So he lived the life of the nomad, wan- again Drizzt was relegated to the periphery of the communities. He they truly prefer their dark caverns in dering the countryside and getting by the depths of the world. They do come as well as he could, holding to his hopes patrolled the borders of the towns, liv- ing in a series of caves and shelters that to the surface occasionally (and exactly that he might yet find a niche in this how often may never be known, for he constructed, and keeping a vigilant, world. But the scenario always played they usually disguise their cruel raids to out the same, and Drizzt took to avoid- though unappreciated guard against the intrusions of the wild. look like a goblinoid strike, and it is very ing people altogether, shrugging away rare that a witness would survive), but his pangs of loneliness in his knowledge Then one day Drizzt came upon a bat- tle on the open tundra. He rushed to the driven under by their surface cousins that he was living by his principles. thousands of years ago, they have accli- But even Drizzt had his limits. How aid of a dwarf locked in combat with a tundra yeti. By the time he got there, mated themselves to the mysterious long he might have survived in that underworld and, for the most part, empty existence, he’ll never know, but the monster was dead on the ground and the dwarf, Bruenor Battlehammer, have lost all desire for the open sky and

21 MAJOR CHARACTERS the feel of the wind on their faces. N’a’shezbaernon. The house of Hau’fe- But there is plenty of untapped love And this is a good thing for the sur- lesse, two rungs on the ladder above and friendship within Drizzt, and he face dwellers! Drizzt’s family, came into the disfavor would happily accept a new friend, pro- Far from fading away, the black elves of D’everdun, the ruling family of the viding he is convinced that the person thrive in the underground realm. Men- city, over a land dispute. Daermon accepts him for what he is and shares zoberranzan is only the third largest of N’a’shezbaernon, with no ties, good or his viewpoints on morality. Minor indis- the eight reputed drow cities (and there bad, to Hau’felesse, but always ready to cretions can be tolerated — after all, may be more), and the drow in Drizzt’s seize an opportunity for advancement, Drizzt is a friend of Regis! — but any former home number more than saw his family’s chance. attitude of bullying or bringing harm or 40,000. And given the brutal nature of First they murdered a member of the grief to someone for no justifiable rea- the underworld, and particularly of house of D’everdun and laid an intri- son would invoke the drow’s wrath. At drow society, even the weakest of the cate web of clues to point toward still a the least, he would simply depart from black elf citizenry is formidable by the fourth family. Then they underlaid a the party. If he saw worth in other softer standards of the surface. Fur- second series of clues, more obscure, members of the group, he would either thermore, drow are skilled in the arts but not beyond the eye of the ruling warn the instigator to change his of magic, and especially adept at family’s vast network of informants, behavior, dismiss the offending individ- destructive magics and in dealing with that belied the first set of evidence and ual from the party, or leave the rogue creatures from other planes of exist- made the whole scam appear to be a dead on a field of honor, depending ence. They count many demons among Cuel’a’cul attempt by Hau’felesse upon the seriousness of the offense. In their sinister allies. against the fourth family. no instances will Drizzt compromise his The threat of the drow may forever The house of Hau’felesse no longer principles or tolerate a malicious indi- remain a potential disaster. They are exists. vidual, unless he is merely buying time chaotic in the extreme, and while some But even with all of the well-earned for a better opportunity to strike back may want revenge upon their surface paranoia, the threat of the drow for the cause of good. cousins or to expand their domain remains substantial. If a mighty leader In battle, Drizzt always seeks the above the ground, many others are could unite them through sheer most advantageous route and method quite content to remain in their dark strength — and their demon goddess, of attack. He inspires companions to cities and have no ambition to ever Lolth, is a concern, though she is as cha- new levels with his skill and fearless- return to the surface. otic as they — she would have a power- ness, and would willingly sacrifice him- And one of the realities of the class- ful force at her disposal. Perhaps not self to save an ally. He would willingly structured society of the drow is powerful enough to conquer the For- return to die beside a friend rather “advancement by elimination.” A drow gotten Realms, but certainly a deadly than run away, as long as even the tini- city is ruled by a family, with a succes- strike force and nucleus of her dark est sliver of hope remained. sion line of other, rival families extend- army. Away from the battlefield, Drizzt is ing all the way back to the peasants. A So a word of warning to short-lived more vulnerable. But far from an easy family betters its position on the succes- humans whose beliefs tend to stem only mark for a confidence scam, he is ever- sion ladder by weakening a family from personal experience: wary and always anticipating the ranked above it, probably through Don’t forget the drow! worst, even if he presents an aura of assassination or a technique called optimism. A character might find a way Cuel’a’cul. Cuel’a’cul involves laying a Roleplaying Tips to sting him emotionally, and wouldn’t series of lies and false evidence against likely be punished for the act. (Unless Drizzt is very reserved around stran- a target family designed to bring the Wulfgar or Bruenor got wind of it.) But gers, quietly observing newcomers wrath of a more powerful family, or someone feigning friendship in order to from the perimeters of their conversa- families, crashing down upon it. It is a get an easy strike at the drow is likely to tions. Player characters might even dangerous practice, for if the deception be the one surprised. think him a snob, though in truth, he is is exposed, all of the other parties unite And pity he who incurs the wrath of merely defending himself against the against the perpetrating family and Drizzt Do’Urden! heartaches of false expectations. It wipe it out. takes Drizzt a long time, not to trust in But the privileges of rank in the dark someone else, but to believe that some- cities are great indeed, and under the one else will trust in him. His defense constant temptation of advancement, against the realities of the drow reputa- the practice continues. Perhaps the tion is seclusion, and his group of most successful Cuel’a’cul was executed friends remains a select few. by Drizzt’s own family, Daermon

22 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Dragonbait creatures similar to the Realmsian dino- The name “Dragonbait” was given to saur, but as intelligent as mankind (and him by the warrior Alias soon after her ARMOR CLASS: 5 in Dragonbait’s case, more intelligent awakening (see Alias). Originally meant MOVE: 12” than most). as a threat (“One wrong move and Hit Points: 50 Dragonbait is short, with a blunted you’re dragon bait, understand?”), the NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 muzzle, powerful, peglike teeth, green saurial took this as his name. The comi- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type scales, and yellow eyes. A single fin cal appellation further adds to the crea- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil grows from the back on his head. He ture’s apparent harmlessness. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil wears clothes, though it is not known Dragonbait’s true name is a combina- MAGIC RESISTANCE: 50% (with sword) whether he does so out of modesty or tion of scents and subsonic guttural SIZE: M (4’10”, 150 pounds) needs to for protection. clicks. The dragon Mist knew it, but ALIGNMENT: Lawful Good Dragonbait’s culture is apparently died without passing on that knowl- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil similar to that of the Realms, such that edge. Seventh-Level Saurial “Paladin” the creature has made the transfer In his own world, Dragonbait is a holy S:15 I:14 W:16 D:13 C:17 CH:4 (18) between the two worlds with a mini- fighter who crusades for good. In that mum of personal shock. Then again, respect, and in many of the abilities he Weapon proficiencies: Crossbow, Dragonbait may just be a quick learner shows, he is a “paladin.” The quotation bastard sword, long sword, two- and easily adapatable to new situations. marks are noted only because Dragon- handed sword, battle-ax, weaponless He appears to have an intuitive grasp of bait is obviously non-human, and in the combat, saurial broad sword (1d8/1d10 human nature as well, able to approach Realms (at least), only humans can be damage). individuals in a non-threatening fash- true paladins. Dragonbait does exhibit Magical items: Magical tattoos — As ion, and get his point across without many paladin-type powers, including: for Alias; “Holy avenger” (+ 5 sword) — words. • Saving throws at +2; This oddly shaped sword was Dragon- Dragonbait is apparently mute, save • Immunity to all disease; bait’s chief weapon in his adventures for some growls and guttural snorts. In • Laying on hands for 14 points heal- with Alias. It has a wide, top-heavy actuality, his race has a very highly ing per day; blade with jagged teeth and a short han- developed sense of smell, and commu- • Detect evil, up to 60’ distance — in dle and functions as a holy avenger nicates by scent in the same fashion as Dragonbait’s case, this ability (called sword, providing a magic resistance of humanoid races of the Realms use the Shen-state) doesn’t detect evil so 50% in a 5’ radius, dispelling magic at voice. These scents are easily picked up much as it reveals a know alignment, the same level as the wielder, and and translated by other saurials, and by showing colors for the various align- inflicting +10 hit points of damage to dragons as well, pointing out a possible ments, with the intensity of those col- Chaotic Evil opponents. To all others, it connection between the two. To normal ors showing the strength of those functions as a +2 sword. Humans in humans, a saurial must “shout” a scent alignments; particular will find this sword difficult to be understood, and then only the • Wielding his world’s equivalent of a to wield, and as such are -2 with it, very basics of emotion are transmitted holy sword. regardless of its magical bonus, until by smell. Unlike paladins, Dragonbait can- proficiency with the weapon (technical- Dragonbait’s known scents are: brim- not: ly a “saurial broad sword”) is gained. stone: confusion, roses: sadness, lemon: • Radiate protection from evil; pleasure/joy, baked bread: anger, vio- • Turn undead as a cleric; Dragonbait’s Story lets: danger/fear, honeysuckle: • Use clerical spells. It is unknown if Dragonbait can sum- (From the notes of Elminster, trans- tendernesss/concern, wood smoke: mon the equivalent of a paladin’s la ted (without his permission) to the devotion/piety, tar: victory/celebration, mount, and in what form that mount vernacular by Olive Ruskettle.) and ham: nervousness/worry. There Dragonbait is a saurial, a race of senti- are others as yet unrevealed. would appear. Dragonbait’s home world and native ent lizard-like creatures who are not Dragonbait has turned his inability to dimension are unknown to any in the native to the Realms, but rather come communicate properly in the Realms to Realms, and he will not divulge that from an alternate material plane. Dra- his advantage by appearing to be less information. He was captured by the gonbait is the first known saurial in the than he really is. He understands Com- demon Phalse while on a mission in the Realms, and the only one (known, that mon though he cannot speak it. Many Abyss, so that even Phalse and his alli- is — the Realms is a wide place, and who assume that his inability to communi- ance do not know his origin. He was knows what can turn up in the Jungles cate equals an inability to comprehend. imprisoned by Phalse, the sorceress of Chult). Saurials are bipedal reptilian Dragonbait does not correct them on this matter. Cassana, the lich Zrie Prakis, members

23 MAJOR CHARACTERS

woman’s and the saurial’s combined will that finally broke the spell binding her to her makers. The alliance was defeated, but at a cost — in the final bat- tle with Phalse, Alias lost Dragonbait’s holy sword when both Phalse and the sword were pitched into the Positive Material Plane and exploded. Dragonbait now carries a non- magical version of his saurial blade and continues to accompany Alias in her adventures through the Realms. Though Alias (and several others, including Elminster) know of Dragon- bait’s true nature, he continues to play the part of humble servant, leaping into action as a true warrior only when nec- essary. In the case of Dragonbait, it can be truly stated that paladinhood is proven more by actions than by words.

Notes on Saurials Dragonbait is a saurial, one of a race of extra-dimensional creatures from an alternate Prime Material Plane. Little is known of this plane, and what follows is pure speculation on the basis of inter- views (such as they are) with the saurial, careful research, and wild guesses. What we laughingly call higher senti- ence in mammalian life does not appar- ently exist in Dragonbait’s plane. Instead, the lizardish, dragonish, and dinosaurian creatures of his dimension fill the niches vacated by man, goblin, orc, pixie, and other similar creatures. Whereas the lizard man is restricted to his fetid swamps here, the troglodyte to of the Fire Knives and minions of Moan- Dragonbait had promised Nameless his underground mazes, and the der and was to be used as a sacrifice, he would remain with Alias and protect dragons to far-off peaks, in Dragon- with his death activating the form of a her, but the saurial would have likely bait’s home, they are the norm, perhaps living slave, Alias. done so in any event. The pair shared the ancestors of the modern saurials. A Something, as yet unrevealed, went the same curse in the form of the tattoo. lizard man may be related to a saurial in wrong in their plans, and Alias revived In addition, Dragonbait sensed a poten- much the same way as an orc is to a early. Dragonbait helped the semicon- tial for good in the warrior. Posing as a man — a similarity of form and function scious woman to escape, and pair fled humble servant, Dragonbait aided Ali- and perhaps a common place of origin. to Suzail, in Cormyr. Using his shen abil- as, the mage Akabar, and the halfling In any event, Dragonbait’s culture is ities, Dragonbait determined that while thief (bard!) Olive Ruskettle in their on a par with any in the Realms, and in Alias was the creation of an evil alli- adventures. some areas (such as ethics), could even ance, she was basically good, with the be further evolved than those in potential for becoming either good or When the evil alliance recaptured Ali- Faerun. Their craft in both steel and evil. as and Dragonbait, it was the swords- magic is demonstrated by the quality of

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Dragonbait’s sword, which in addition played as a saurial, use the following • Paladins — See above under Dra- to being a fine weapon, was perfectly modifications: gonbait’s stats for his abilities. shaped for his smaller hands. Statistics — As normal for AD&D® • Rangers — Saurial rangers are sur- Saurials have vision on the par with characters, with two modifications: prised one time in eight, and surprise humans, extending down into the infra- • Saurials cannot gain “% STR” stat — opponents 50% of the time. They do not red range. It is their sense of smell that the maximum strength they may gain a +1 per level damage benefit is truly remarkable, such that they use have is 18. against “giant class.” They do gain this scents to communicate. The scents • Saurials may have any charisma stat benefit against lizard men, troglodytes, used by Dragonbait are noted above, among their own kind, but their dragons, and other reptilian (and and may or may not apply to other maximum charisma among other, amphibian, at DM’s option) creatures. saurials. There may be different saurial non-saurial races is 5. The charisma Otherwise they have all ranger abilities languages and dialects, but this is listed for Dragonbait in parenthesis and requirements. unlikely, as the dragon Mist readily is that which he has among other • Clerics — Saurial clerics worship picked up the challenge of Dragonbait saurials and among creatures such as saurial gods, and as such, are more in his own “tongue.” dragons, lizard men, and troglo- severely limited in the Realms. They are Saurials are proficient with their own dytes. considered to be two planes removed in weapons, equivalents of those found in Alignment — It is assumed that regards to contacting their gods, with most of the Realms. The saurial broad saurials can be of any alignment availa- the result that they may cast only cast sword used by Dragonbait, for exam- ble. The fact that the only such creature first-and second-level spells when in the ple, is broader at the tip of the blade available for studies is a paladin does Realms. See magic-users below for and notched in an ornate fashion, while not preclude the existence of others effects of spells. the handle is shorter than for the having different alignments. • Druids — While both saurial and human equivalent. A saurial dart may Weapons proficiency — Note the human druids worship “nature,” they be wider in its wings, and a dagger may restriction for weapons above — do so in different ways and respect dif- have three edges to it. In terms of saurials suffer no penalty when using ferent aspects of their nature-gods. AD&D® game combat, however, all weapons of saurial design, and a -1 to They are limited as clerics in their spell weapons fuction as well as their human hit penalty when using weapons of choice. However, some types of swamp equivalents. Saurials suffer a -1 to hit human (or other) design. reeds will function for saurial druids as with human weapons, while humans Languages — None, other than the well as mistletoe and oak do for their suffer a similar penalty with saurial scent language of the saurials, which human equivalents. weapons. may be roughly comprehended by • Magic-Users — Saurials have no Saurials seem to possess no special abili- humans who anticipate such things, written language as yet determined, ties other than those possessed by the and by creatures who have both good and as such, the concept of spellbooks “character class” of individual saurials. intelligence and a fine sense of smell. is lost on them. Dragonbait has proved That is, assuming that Dragonbait is rep- Infravision — Saurials can sense familiar with the concept of spellbooks, resentative as a paladin of his race, he objects in the dark up to 60’ away such that saurial mages likely use exhibits no other special abilities than through seeing varying degrees of heat. “memory sticks” — notched poles those of paladins found in the Realms. Special abilities: None known, which function in the same fashion as While it is possible that some of these abil- though if saurials represent the equiva- spellbooks. These might be mistaken ities may be natural to all saurials, the lent of “humans” in their home dimen- for magical staves by the uninformed sample taken (a single saurial) is too small sion, then there might be the equivalent or strangers. While saurial mages use to determine it as fact. of scaly elves, reptilian dwarves, and spells that parallel or mimic human Saurials as player characters: The the like. Dragonbait has said little on spells (much like saurial and human existence of the saurial paladin Dragon- the subject, and the entire matter is one weapons are similar), saurial and bait makes one wonder about other of rampant speculation. human magic is not compatible in any saurials and their nature. Saurials Character classes — Saurials can way. The saurial mind is different than would be at best very rare in the be of any character class available to that of humans, and rather than a ver- Realms, and are not native to its plane humans in the Realms. There are some bal component, the mute saurials have of the Realms. (Saurials would be con- minor differences for Realmsian play: a “scent” component that makes their sidered extra-planar creatures as far as • Fighters — No differences, other spells impossible for humans to cast spells concerning their summoning, than those noted for weapons. Saurial and vice versa. With research (as for a banishment, and the effect of protec- fighters (and their subclasses) can gain new spell), a human mage may come up tion from good/evil spells.) If the DM proficiencies in human weapons with with the equivalent of a saurial spell determines that a character may be proper training. and vice versa, but one cannot use the

25 MAJOR CHARACTERS other’s spellbooks or memory sticks. Class limitations — Saurials can- wear armor, but it will only help them if • Illusionists — Saurial illusions not be dual-class characters (like elves, it raises their armor class above 5 (That extend into the infrared part of the half-elves, and the like). They can be is, mere leather would do no good, spectrum, and in addition, give off a characters with two classes, in accord- while plate would offer as much protec- scent proper for their appearance. ance with normal AD&D® rules as tion as plate would to a human — AC 3). • Thieves and assassins — Saurial regards humans. A shield will add 1 to the AC, just as for thieves (and their subclasses) suffer a Racial relations — Most other humans, Saurials cannot wear human blanket -5% on all thieving abilities. races are either neutral (80%) or armor comfortably and vice versa. • Other classes (barbarian, cavalier, unfriendly (20%) to saurials in general, Psionics — It is unknown if any the ORIENTAL ADVENTURES classes (a usually along the lines of how they feel Saurials have psionic abilities, and the saurial samurai?) — Left to the DM’s dis- about lizard men in general. Humans extent of them if they do. cretion on all major abilities, taking into are neutral to them, with adjustments Weaponless attacks — A saurial account saurials’ limitations such as for how much a bother they are, how without any weapons may still attack muteness, and advantages, such as many turn up, and regional differ- twice with his claw-like hands (1d3 their sense of smell. ences. points damage each), or strike with his Level limitations — The exact level Saving throws — Saurials have tail (1d2 points damage). Not much, but limitations on saurials are as yet normal saving throws for their class. better than a weaponless human. unknown, again, given the small size of Due to their keen sense of smell, how- Zero-level saurials — If zero-level the sample currently living in the ever, they are more vulnerable to gas- humans exist as the standard for all Realms. In game terms, the highest based attacks (such as stinking cloud or humans, it follows that zero-level level of saurials is ninth in any class, the chlorine of a green dragon), and as saurials may well exist on Dragonbait’s with exceptional individuals (those that, such, save against such attacks at -2. home world. A zero-level saurial would if human, would gain a bonus to experi- Armor class — All saurials (even the have 1d4 hit points, AC 5, Move 12”) , # ence), able to reach 10th level. mages) are armor class 5. They may AT 2 or 1, Damage 1d3/1d3 or 1d2.

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Elminster impulses and doing things “for the hell things seen only once, or seen long ago. of it.” He is not aggressive, but is fear- Other sages speculate that this is the ARMOR CLASS: 10 (7 with ring) less, and will fight if crossed, threat- results of a wish spell cast centuries MOVE: 12” ened, or attacked. ago. At his present stage of maturity, he Hit Points: 96 Elminster keeps a low profile in the only uses wishes when in dire need, NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Realms, preferring not to openly which hasn’t happened in over a centu- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or engage in diplomacy or politics of any ry. However, he has admitted that in his spell sort. Officially, he maintains a sage’s youth (when he was only 200 or 300 SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spells and magic neutrality; in fact, he prefers to see years old) he used them occasionally. items peace, freedom from slavery and His vast experience and nearly per- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Spells and magic oppression for all peoples (of all races), fect memory allow him to identify all items tolerance, and maintenance of wilder- known non-unique magic-user spells MAGIC RESISTANCE: See below ness and natural beauty. He often (and many illusionist, clerical, and dru- SIZE: M works with circles of druids and allied idic magics) by the opening activity of a ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good rangers, magic-users of like mind (nota- visible spell-caster’s casting. This often PSIONIC ABILITY: 266 bly Khelben “Blackstaff” Arunsun; Alus- enables him to counter spell effects ATTACK/DEFENSE MODES: All/All triel, High Lady of Silverymoon; and with fast, high-level magics of his own. 26th-Level Human Magic-User The Simbul, mage-queen of Aglarond), He also has the unique natural ability S:13 I:18 W:18 D:18 C:14 CH:17 and that mysterious group known only (from birth, origin unknown, and lead- as the Harpers, working covertly to ing to his present career) to see magical A human male of advanced age, prevent war and limit the influence of auras — precise location, hues, shapes, Elminster appears to be a gray-bearded rulers and groups viewed as evil. and intensities — on persons and things man of weathered visage, gruff voice, Elminster has perhaps the best pri- within 3” (even when darkness pre- dancing eyes, and nondescript attire. vate library in the Realms, and hence is vents his normal sight). This includes He is a natural storyteller and mimic, often consulted on matters of history illusions and polymorphed or other- and can be quite imperious or persua- and genealogy, but he is most famous as wise transformed objects. He can even sive if he wants to be. He is a consum- the foremost authority on rare and see the potential for magic-wielding mate actor, and if need be, can convince arcane magic, and on dangerous and (which he calls “power”) in a creature, most people to believe his role. For unusual beasts. Elminster enjoys as betrayed by the unconscious mental game purposes, he can act as if any of imparting wisdom to others, but seeking or manipulation of pathways of the above characteristics are any value intensely dislikes giving up the time power between the Positive and Prime up to their true number, and he can necessary to train a magic-user up to a Material planes. In a rare display of change his attractiveness with makeup. new level of mastery, and will not openness, he conjectured that it might He rarely travels in the Realms undertake such tutelage for those with be a rare passive psionic discipline. (although it is apparent that he once whom he is not friendly or to whom Although Elminster himself is psionic, traveled there widely), preferring these he’s not beholden. Adventurers come to he has little interest in the disciplines days to explore other worlds. When he him from all over the Realms, and he is and has done little research into them. does travel, it is usually in the disguise said to be fabulously wealthy as a result His favorite spells are known to afforded by a shape change spell, or of the fees they pay (having only to sell include identify, magic missile, magic under cover of invisibility. Elminster the right to copy a spell to certain mouth, disintegrate, legend lore, tele- travels to acquire information; his great mages, if he ever desires more wealth). port, imprisonment, meteor swarm, love is the discovery of the long forgot- He never dresses as a person of wealth and shape change. He dislikes conjura- ten, or of creatures and magic totally or influence, however; formal or grand tion and summoning spells of all sorts, new to him. clothing, to Elminster, is a simple black and prefers not to deal with creatures Elminster smokes a meerschaum pipe or gray robe, clean and unadorned. from the lower or the elemental planes. (burning some strange substance that Rumors of his wealth are borne out by A curious exception is his fondness of produces thick green or blue smoke, the fact that he aids those it pleases him firetails. He has been known to wear a sparks, and smoke rings), and can drink to aid, and turns away others, regard- necklace of missiles, and customarily heavily without apparent ill effects. He less of how much or how little any of wears a +3 ring of protection and a can be witty and clever in conversation them offer in payment. ring of regeneration. He may have ioun if he so desires, or haughty, or charming Over the years, Elminster’s memory stones of any sort upon his person, and or terrible and commanding. As he has has been developed to an astonishing always carries a staff, usually non- grown older, Elminster has become degree; he can call to mind with crystal magical. more whimsical, given to sudden clarity the likeness of creatures or Elminster rarely uses his psionic abili-

27 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Elminster’s past than any other living creature. Elminster now dislikes teach- ing in any concentrated form — he has sickened of such work, he says, by hearing too many sages, magic-users, and “scholars of the ’if I stop talking for an instant I shall cease to exist’ school — and knowing how much I came to resemble them.” He is also irked by the constant demands of those who would hire his knowledge for information on magic and monsters. “War! It’s always this or that power, this or that weapon. Kings make war unceasingly, for the greater men are, the more petty men are . . . and no one wants to hear about how to get good crops, where to plant or where not to plant, or how to guard beauty in the taking of riches for rock and soil. No one want to listen to such things, because — mark ye — sword and spells rule the Realms, not cool heads and warm hearts.” The true learning of being a mage, according to Elminster, is the knowledge of when not to use one’s powers. Elminster’s true parentage is unknown. His manners and dealings would lead one to believe that he was of noble birth. However, he’s visited enough courts and mixed with enough high society throughout the Realms to have the etiquette and wily wit of a chancellor. It is known that he was born some- where in the North — probably some- where near the great city of Waterdeep, or at least the Sword Coast. His knowledge of the lands from Mira- ties in combat against non-psionics; he of life potions. This count of years is bar south to Baldur’s Gate, and east to will sometimes use these disciplines inescapable, given that he once had Cormyr and the Desert, is vivid and var- while traveling. He possesses the minor Arkhon “the Old” as a tutor, and that he ied when he speaks of events 500 years disciplines of body equilibrium, cell remembers the city of Myth Drannor in ago. The tone of his voice suggests that adjustment, object reading, and sensi- all its glory. he is remembering things he experi- tivity to psychic impressions, and the enced and was part of, not things he has major disciplines of energy control and The “Old Sage,” as he is now known, studied in books of lore. mind bar. has taught such famous workers of During this time of perhaps 40 years, Elminster’s precise age is unknown magic as The Simbul, the witch Sylune Elminster had a varied career adven- (he will coyly evade any questions on (now deceased), and the bard Storm turing (suggesting that he had no par- this topic), but he is at least 600 winters Silverhand, who remained with him for ents, or was parted from them early) — of age — and presumably the user of many years as apprentice and lover having little to do with magic, it potions of longevity and vitality, and before making her own way in the appears, save as the spoils of tomb- perhaps also a regular imbiber of elixir Realms — and perhaps knows more of pillaging and delving in the lost cities of

28 MAJOR CHARACTERS the dwarves. Any character class abili- libraries of the Realms — and discreetly Presently Elminster resides in a place ties gained during this period have been furthering his arts under the tutelage he loves — the verdant farming valley lost centuries ago by severe disuse. He of such mages as Torose and Shalane of of Shadowdale. He lives quietly, respect- was fascinated by the past, as revealed Taerloon. It is thought that at this time ed by the townsfolk, who consult him in the tombs he entered and in bardic he mastered and completed whatever on matters of history and genealogy lays and ballads heard in taverns, and processes he thought necessary for his and advice on the upbringing of their was also intrigued by the magic that own longevity, for Elminster then sons and daughters. His cluttered, two- slumbered in scrolls and items that he dropped out of sight for over 200 years, story tower overlooking a fish pond is and his band found. doubtless into seclusion at some haunt his home. He is accompanied by a scribe He speaks of Arkhon “the Old,” per- of his own devising, to experiment in named Lhaeo, of great renown. haps the foremost human sage (and a magery on his own, develop some of his Elminster does travel more or less mage of note, too) in the North at the spells, and create magic items. At some continuously in the “endless worlds,” as time, and it’s suspected that he took point during this time, he is known to he puts it, these days — and may turn tutelage under Arkhon in Waterdeep, have tentatively explored some of the up on any parallel Prime Material Plane and probably also learned the rudi- lower planes. When he returned to a DM wishes. There is only a one-in-10 ments of an adventuring mage’s art public view, in Waterdeep, he began to chance of finding him in his tower through his contacts (the merchants operate as a sage for hire, and to take under normal circumstances. However, and “fences” of goods from the past) in on apprentices. Then, as now, he Lhaeo can contact him if need be, and the caravan city of Scornubel. Possible retained only those he liked and he always seems to be around just tutors in magic of the time were Myrja- thought fit: the adventuress Laeral, when you need him the most. la “Darkeyes,” the half-elven adventur- founder of The Nine; Alustriel, who When out and about, he will always ess, and the merchant-mage Lycon, was later to become ruler of city of be seeking unusual magic, monsters, called “Wolf-beard” for his appearance Silverymoon; the witch Sylune, who and — of even more importance to him and manner. become the the wife of Aumry, lord of —information on how each world After this period, for reasons Shadowdale; and Murask of Neverwin- works: its ecology, societies, and unique unknown (perhaps to flee enemies, ter. beauties. Rather than being a dramatic seek a change of life, or merely to Since then, Sylune’s husband was figure of power, he travels quietly, in advance in training), Elminster traveled slain, and Elminster answered her call disguise. He does present a model of a with his caravan comrades east via for aid by coming to Shadowdale, cautious, prepared mage of power — Iriaebor to Cormyr and the still- where he helped to overthrow an evil and no one should find him a pushover. fledgling Dalelands. There, he is known usurper and quell an uprising of drow When traveling, Elminster protects to have become a friend of elves, one of from the depths. Elminster loved the himself with the following spells: the few humans allowed to travel to the peace and beauty of the dale, its near- shield, protection from normal missiles, Elven Court without special leave. ness to the Elven Court, and its simple stone skin, statue, Serten’s spell immu- There he came to the school of wiz- folk, and he stayed. Thereafter, he nity, and Elminster’s evasion (see ardry established by the Seven Wiz- taught the bard Storm Silverhand, below). ards, where he studied under Mentor Sylune’s sister, and aided The Simbul In addition, his is likely to have all of and the mage known only as “The and Khelben Arunsun for the first time, the following unique spells ready. Masked.” He stayed in Myth Drannor working together against evil magery These spells are the results of many some 20 years, growing in lore and from Thay, Mulmaster, and Zhentil years of research and experimenting by maturity, and when he deemed it time, Keep — foes that have remained, in one Elminster himself, and he will not left the city (not long before its destruc- form or another, to this day. divulge the method of their casting to tion) with Alais, an elven lady, to begin It is suspected that he had a hand in just anyone. Certain of his colleagues an epic travel about the Realms to learn raising the present Lords of Waterdeep know the formulae, Khelben “Black- its lands and lore. (a secretive group that includes staff” Arunsun and The Simbul, to For 15 years he traveled, ranging Khelben Arunsun) to power, and in name two. more widely about the Realms than any forming the Harpers, but there is no man alive had at the time. At length, hard evidence, and Elminster just Alais took him over the sea to Ever- smiles and winks now and then when meet, the island kingdom of the elves. queried. He has often aided mages, and There she remained, to pass away, and elves in particular, over the last half he returned, changed in outlook and century or so, but has taken few humor, to visit one keep of learning apprentices, and less of a hand in open after another, quietly scoring the politics.

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Inscribe The quill writes normal text at a rate imagination, then there is only a 10% (Education/Alteration) of one turn per normal sized page. Mag- base chance of reaching the correct ical writings are copied at one turn per plane. Add +1% for each level of the Level: 6 level of the spell being copied. The DM spell-caster. Components: V,S,M may want to modify the time for extra- Range: 7” large pages or if complex drawings are Elminster’s Evasion Casting time: 1 round being copied. Duration: 1 turn +1 turn/level (Evocation) Saving throw: special Worldwalk (Alteration) Level: 9 Area of Effect: 1 inscription Components: V,S,M Level: 9 Range: 0” Explanation/Description: By means Components: V,S,(M) Casting time: 1 turn + other spells of this spell, a magic-user may be able to Range: 3” Duration: special inscribe any writing, runes, or glyphs, Casting time: 3 segments Saving throw: none even a spell he or she cannot under- Duration: up to 1 turn per level Area of Effect: the spell-caster stand at the time (due to low level, lack Saving throw: none of time to study or write, or insufficient Area of effect: special Explanation/Description: This is an intelligence or training) into a spellbook enhanced and customized version of or onto a suitably prepared writing sur- Explanation/Description: By means the contingency spell of which Elmin- face (such as a slate or scroll). The origi- of this spell, an ultra-dimensional con- ster is quite proud; he calls it a “good nal is unaltered, and the duplicate nection is temporarily created between and true alternative to lichdom.” Upon contains all the properties of the origi- the plane the caster is on and a differ- the declared conditions (no more than nal, including type of ink, smudges, ent plane chosen by him. The portal is a six simple clauses), the spell-caster’s errors, etc. For example, a strange shimmering disc of force 2” across, body, complete with his soul or spirit, glyph of warding would still retain all of floating on edge up to 3” from the cast- even if separated from the body, with its harmful properties. er, wherever he wills it. It is held open any of the items held at the time, is Non-magical writings are always suc- without concentration until the caster snatched through a momentary (1 seg- cessfully copied. Magical writings are wills it to vanish or the spell’s duration ment) worldwalk portal to the place subject to a saving throw modified by expires. Anything caught between where the spell was originally cast, the difference in level between the planes when it is dispelled is flung into even if that place is many planes dis- inscriber’s highest castable spell level the uppermost plane of Limbo. tant. and the level of the spell being copied. If Up to 10 creatures can pass through When casting the evasion spell, the the inscriber can cast up to sixth-level the portal in a given round (1 per seg- worldwalk it uses must also be cast, spells and is attempting to copy an ment), assuming that they race through along with telekinesis to move the body, eighth-level spell, there is a -2 modi- in an organized line, one right on the and two other spells of the caster’s fier to the saving throw. If the saving heels of the other. Objects not in contact choice. All four of these spells must be throw is failed, 2 points of damage per with a creature are also sent to the personally cast and can not come from spell level being copied are taken. In uppermost plane of Limbo, and scat- devices or other spell-casters. The eva- addition, the inscriber is stunned for tered there randomly. sion remains in effect until one of the 1d3 rounds. If the destination plane is personally six conditions is met. The spell animates an enchanted quill known to the caster, no material com- The material components of this spell (reusable) and uses ink that includes a ponent is needed. The chance of suc- are a pint of the caster’s blood and a drop of the caster’s blood. The DM can cessfully reaching the requested plane gem of at least 5,000 gp value. Both are use his discretion for the components is 5% per level of the caster. Failure consumed in the casting. The caster and spells necessary to construct the indicates an opening into an alternate also loses 1d4 hit points which cannot quill and mix the ink. Prime Material Plane. be healed, until the spell is triggered, at The quill must be within 1” of the Unknown planes can be reached if which time they can be recovered by spell it is copying, and the caster must the caster is in physical contact with normal or magical means. be within 7” of the quill. The spell takes material from that plane. The material Elminster’s version uses only five con- no concentration, and the inscriber can is not consumed and can be brought ditions — death, loss of control over his perform any action so long as he stays along if it is possible. If the material mental faculties, loss of control over his with 7” of the quill. The quill will evade component is missing, the caster must physical body, destruction of both attempts to grab it, but can be provide a verbal description of the upper limbs or equal physical damage, destroyed by 4 hp of damage. plane desired even if it is only from his and uttering the command word

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“Thaele.” He usually casts this spell from only possible for a single round. board rests a jar and several glass vials. an extra-dimensional “safe hold” (loca- The entire tower acts as an amulet of The jar holds a dozen or so stones, all of tion unknown), to which the evasion proof against detection and location. No which have had continual light cast would take him. Upon arriving, some device or spell can ever see or hear into upon them, some with a half brightness sort of magical creature (unseen ser- it. The whole structure radiates a pro- variant. The vials are potions of healing, vant, homonculous, or golem; Elmin- tection from evil, 10’ radius. Elminster extra-healing, elixirs of health, and a ster is deliberately vague) administers has no illusions that these measures special concoction that immediately an elixir of health, elixir of life, guarantee his privacy or even his cures hangovers and rids the body of Keoghtom’s ointment and up to six safety. For the greater part, he relies any alcohol. potions of healing. upon his reputation, and upon the sign The second floor is the sleeping room. The two spells to be activated on his at the foot of the path leading to his It has but a single bed in it. Elminster arrival are a very carefully worded tower. It reads, “No trespassing. Viola- and Lhaeo rarely sleep at the same wish, to restore him to mental and or tors should notify next of kin. Have a time, each keeping unusual hours. physical health if necessary, and a send- pleasant day,” in both Common and There is one accessible wardrobe ing spell which contacts Elminster’s Thorass. where they both keep everyday cloth- friend The Simbul, mage-queen of The first floor is a general study and ing. A spot on the floor next to the bed Aglarond, saying “I am sorely wounded, workroom. It has a few small tables and usually has papers or other before bed if you value my life, come to the safe a couple of dilapidated easy chairs. The objects on it. hold quickly.” table surfaces and floor around them The rest of the room is filled with are filled with stacks of paper, some of wardrobes and trunks, frequently Elminster’s Tower which reach close to the ceiling, totally stacked one on top of another. These obscuring the furniture itself. There is hold many strange wonders, few of For a sage of great renown and a footpath leading from the kitchen to which are magical. Several wardrobes Faerun’s most powerful arch-mage, the chairs, and to the staircase. contain fine clothing from lost Myth Elminster’s tower is amazingly nonde- Most of the papers are written by Drannor. One actually has a full set of script. It has two floors and a flat roof Elminster, although many of them have plate mail in it, although it is not fit for with time-worn crenelations on the been copied over by Lhaeo into legible battle. Lhaeo keeps his short sword +2 edge. One of the oldest structures in writing. Of any random selection of 100 of quickness in one of the trunks. Shadowdale, it dates back to the earliest papers, 99 are safe readings of descrip- There is a trapdoor in the ceiling, settlers of the region. They were tions of strange lands, creatures and with a wooden ladder leading up to it. farmers and hunters who built this cultures. One will be some sort of mag- Always wizard locked, it leads to the small stone tower to keep out the pred- ic. Of those, nine in 10 are minor spell rooftop. Elminster has been known to ators at nights. variants such as a levitate spell that venture up there on occasions to sit and When Elminster came to Shadow- works at an angle to gravity, or a danc- watch the world go by. The crenela- dale, it was falling apart, the mortar ing lights spell that allows control over tions do make the rooftop a defensible crumbling, and the top story had shorn the color of the light. area, although it has never been used as away on one side during a bad storm. The remaining papers are not safe to such by Elminster or Lhaeo. Elminster chose it for two reasons. One read. They could contain anything, was the highly attractive price: Nobody from horrible new glyphs of warding, Elminster’s Safe Hold else wanted it. The other was its strate- to malignant intelligences trapped in Not much is known of this extra- gic location in the dale, off the beaten the parchment. For this reason, all visi- dimensional place. By putting together path, but still within walking distance tors are cautioned not to poke around various subtle clues, it seems likely that to the Old Skull Inn, where a man can in the stacks. Some things are better left it is its own pocket dimension. It is a get decent drink and hear a tale or two. undisturbed. well fortified structure with plenty of Elminster worked subtle magics into An open archway leads to the open space for trial-casting new spells. the reconstruction of the tower. Its kitchen. The larder is stocked with It is certain that this is where Elminster walls and mortar are full of lead, which exceptionally plain fare, although there keeps his spellbooks. Copies of Lhaeo’s prevents certain creatures from seeing is a wide variety of spices, some are finished works also end up here in his through them. On both the Astral and even from other realms of existence. A extensive (although undoubtedly disor- the Ethereal planes, his tower is a solid single large cupboard on the side hold ganized) library. It is certain that there cylinder without entrance. No form of all of the common spell components are many different magic items in the teleport or plane shifting spell will that a mage would want. The more safe hold. Elminster always seems to be allow entrance unless Elminster speaks unusual ones Elminster keeps on his able to put his hands on just the right a command word first. Even then it is person. On a special shelf in this cup-

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piece, when it is necessary. Some for- is the area or region that gives a +10% he would never admit to it. These men gotten closet probably holds enough chance to find a sage in that field of and women are known well enough treasure (particularly gems for use as study. Usually this refers to a particular that they can charge more for their spell components) to make even the area within the field. For example, services. Usually they deliver informa- richest man drool. Orlumbor is famous for shipbuilding tion on topics not accessible by com- There are no reliable tales of it ever and therefore would only get a bonus mon sages. Any character class ability being plundered, or even entered, but for finding sages knowledgeable in that of these sages is unknown by the gen- as Elminster says, “Never underesti- specialty, not all types of engineering. eral public. mate the greed of men.” Any who Chance Specialty Raash — Zhentil Keep: A lean man of would find their way there are certain study to find of some 50 winters, Raash is considered to encounter Elminster’s servants, Alchemy 10% Thay by many to be the foremost authority which include stone and iron golems, Architecture 5% Sembia, on dragons in the Realms, excepting and maybe a spectator or two. In gen- Waterdeep Elminster, and a sixth-level magic-user. eral, Elminster does not use living ser- Art 20% Calimshan He is fairly wealthy, enough to be able vants that do not wish to serve him. He Astrology 30% to refuse work if need be. He is famous will never have a summoned or con- Astronomy 10% Amn for his barbed temper. Raash only jured creature do his bidding. Botany 25% Cormyr accepts interesting work, giving more Cartography 20% Amn, Lantan, mundane assignments to one of the two Waterdeep Sages in the Forgotten Cryptography 5% Calimshan sages who work under him. His fees are Realms Ecology 10% Cormyr five times normal, and those of his Engineering 30% Lantan, assistants are three times normal. Their A sage is simply a learned man. As Orlumbor, specialties are zoology and ecology. Elminster says “Any damn fool can call Impiltur They are particularly knowledgeable himself a sage, all he has to do is know Folklore 25% Dales about enchanted creatures. more about something than whoever is Genealogy 25% Tethyr Drake “Deepcups” — Iriaebor: He is a sitting next to him.” Any creature that Geography 10% short, stout, bearded man of around 60 has gathered information can be con- Heraldry 30% winters. He is famous for his written sidered a sage. History, human 30% Waterdeep works on dwarfish history and social There are those in the Realms who History, non-human 5% Dales customs. He speaks and writes all sell their knowledge and call them- known forms of dwarfish fluently, and selves sages. These men are usually Languages, Amn, Baldur’s human 40% Gate with a flawless accent. He is often con- experts in a single field of study. A few, Languages, sulted by adventuring parties that plan like Elminster, are masters of a handful non-human 5% Dales on exploring the old dwarven digs. At of topics. Usually they have exceptional Law 35% Cormyr, double the normal fees, he ought to be intelligence or have lived a very long Zhentil Keep wealthy, but he has a soft spot for good time. Magic 10% Mulhorand, ale. Most sages, unlike Elminster, do not Thay Selinor — Ordulin in Sembia: Her travel. They rely upon news or writings Mathematics 20% Waterdeep knowledge of the Elven Court is second from travelers, and therefore are only Medicine 10% Music 30% only to that of the elf sages themselves. found in places frequented by well trav- She has personally advised statesmen eled men. These include large cities and Philosophy 25% Politics 5% Calimshan, and politicians needing to negotiate smaller cities at strategic crossroads. Tethyr, with the Elven Court. She speaks and Elminster considers himself retired Zhentil Keep writes all forms of elvish with a perfect from general practice and is not for Planes, inner 15% accent. With the current passage of the hire anymore. Planes, outer 5% Mulhorand Elven Court, she is swamped with work Below is a table of general fields of Religion 25% for the next year. Her fees are four study which a sage might have, along Trade times normal, and she has five scribes with a table of percentages for finding economics 15% Amn, Waterdeep working for her. Warfare 5% Baldur’s Gate, such a sage in an average-sized city. The Simple maps of Myth Drannor (artis- Thay, chance of locating a sage in a city is tic renditions) can be bought for 50 gp modified by the DM for location and Zhentil Keep Zoology 20% Sembia by anybody in her shop. Any adventur- extreme circumstances. Certain ing party using such a map will find it to regions in the Realms tend to promote There are a few famous sages in the be highly inaccurate for travel pur- certain fields of study. Next to each field Realms other than Elminster, although poses. She only sells accurate travel

32 MAJOR CHARACTERS maps to those who do not intend to Bezier — Waterdeep: Tutored under Skarn Stonegrinder — Impiltur: A harm the ruins and gets 250 gp for the great Furier, Bezier is a lesser math- dwarf who associates freely with men, them (use the before and after maps in ematician. However, this still puts him a he understands geology, mining, and the boxed set). cut above most living mathematicians metal smithing like no human does. It is Duncan — Arabel of Cormyr: A in the Realms. He has many sages and not known why he lives amongst men young sage of 43 winters, his family scribes who work for him. In recent in Impiltur. His name is spurned by was slaughtered by goblins when he years, rumor has it that he has grown dwarves who admit to knowing of it, was young. Driven to understand how feebleminded. At over 80 winters, this although they do not say why. He takes this could happen, he has become the is to be expected. his fees as a percentage of the operation foremost authority on the goblin races, Viticun — Eltabbar of Thay: Known on which he advises. His wealth is their history, society, and ecology in the only by reputation in the western great, but hidden somewhere in the Realms. His fees are triple normal, and lands, he is thought to know more Earthfast Mountains. He was a seventh- he pays for any unusual information about the workings of magic and its level fighter before becoming a sage, pertaining to the goblin races. Duncan relationship to the inner and outer and owns a hammer of thunderbolts. is also a fourth-level ranger and does a planes than any man alive. He is a Delitar the Slow — Westgate: He is some of his own information gathering. devoted follower of the cult, and is a called the slow because of the stutter in Jantoo — Waterdeep: Considered to be powerful wizard (18th level). Viticun his speech. It can take him a long time to the greatest philosopher alive today, she only accepts work from loyal followers relate a story verbally. However, pity can either support or refute most ques- of the Cult of the Red Wizards. He the adventurer who assumes he is slow tions, depending upon her whim. Two of apparently has no talent for leading in thinking. Delitar is considered to be her most famous works concern the men or any desire to enter into politics. the greatest human historian of these existence of free will in mankind. One A famous story is told of The Simbul vis- times. His works are quoted by most paper conclusively proves it does exist, iting him in magical disguise and com- other sages in the Realms. He has three the other that is does not. Unwed, she has ing away with a great secret. The truth other sages who specialize in the histo- said publicly that she will marry the man of this is not known. ry of some regional area, along with who can win an argument with her. many scribes.

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Kelemvor at least +1. It possesses keen night Relatives: Kendrel Lyonsbane vision that enables it to see in near- (father, deceased), Cyndril (mother, lightless conditions, acute hearing, and deceased), Guntharr (brother, ARMOR CLASS: 2 (3 as panther) a sensitive sense of smell. deceased), Burne (uncle, deceased). MOVE: 12” Appearance: In human form, Allies: Adon, Cyric, Midnight. Hit Points: 44 Kelemvor is muscular and ruggedly Patron deity: none. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 attractive man in his early 30s, with Home: Lyonsbane Keep. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type long black hair. His mouth is more Personal history: Kelemvor was SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil prone to scowls than smiles, and he the fourth and final son Cyndril bore SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil often wears military garb. Even when Kendrel. The 10 years she had waited MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil trying to relax in civilian garb, he still since her last child had taken their toll; SIZE: M (5’10”) wears at least a chest plate. she died in childbirth. Throughout his ALIGNMENT: Lawful Neutral His panther form is physically identi- childhood, Kelemvor was always PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil cal to a black panther. blamed for her death. Fifth-Level Human Fighter Personality: Kelemvor is an As the youngest child, Kelemvor had Lycanthrope (Werepanther) extremist in everything he does. He the hardest burden to carry. Not only S:18/94 I:7 W:7 D:12 C:17 CH:13 only shows his wilder side and keeps did he have to meet his father’s aspira- his sensitivity a deeply buried secret. tions, he had to match the accomplish- Armor: Plate mail, large shield. Because of his family’s curse, he is a ments of his far-older brothers. When Languages: Human, Panther. tragic figure, constantly forced to seek he was 8, his brothers were already Possessions: Plate mail, large the life of a mercenary. He has assumed writing their own legends as they bat- shield, bastard sword, dagger. a gruff, callous exterior that protects tled in far-off lands. Kendrel was Weapons of proficiency: Bastard him more from his own feelings than retired from fighting; an old war injury sword (2d4 + 5/2d8 + 5), short sword from emotional strife caused by others. forced him to settle for work as a mili- (1d6 + 5/1d8 + 5), lance (1d6 + 5/1d8 + 5, He hates the fact that his curse tary advisor. The inaction rankled him double if mounted), dagger (1d4 +5/ demands he take payment for any deed even more since the injury was the 2d4 +4), bow (1d6). he does that is not in his best interest, result of his own carelessness. Still, he Experience points: 22,000. but realizes that any selfless act will never acknowledged his own part in his Money: 450 gp. bring forth his panther form, possibly downfall. It was far easier to blame his Combat: Due to his great strength, causing the death of some innocent. inaction on Kelemvor’s improper care Kelemvor is +2 to hit and +5 to dam- Kelemvor is driven to seek a place of at the hands of a succession of nannies. age. law and order. To him it would be a safe By the time he was 10, Kelemvor had Kelemvor is a fierce fighter whose place ruled by benevolent authority. begun to show appreciation for art and natural fighting skills are more than a This drive is tied to his search for a beauty. His teacher was Tannith, a match for most foes. He does not shy benevolent father- figure to replace the lovely and sensitive woman. This “cor- away from attacking foes who outnum- monster who sired him. Kelemvor will ruption,” as Kendrel saw it, was the ber him tenfold. His lycanthropic abili- ally himself to such father- figures but final straw. He discharged Tannith and ties apparently extend to his human as soon as they betray his idealized took full control of Kelemvor’s upbring- form. Although he can suffer wounds vision (as all do in time), he leaves, more ing; the boy was now locked into a mili- from normal weapons, he soon shrugs embittered than before. His search for tary future. Kelemvor ran into Tannith off their effects. Kelemvor simply con- true order gives him a limited view of weeks later, and he learned she had siders himself to be a fast healer. the world. Everything is seen in black been savagely abused and left for dead Kelemvor cannot control his transfor- or white. by his father’s friends. The fire of mation into a panther, so his lycanthro- Because of his memories of his cor- hatred kindled in Kelemvor’s breast. py rarely works to his advantage. In rupt father, Kelemvor is unwilling to Kelemvor learned to channel his fury battle, however, Kelemvor’s panther assume command. If faced with an into fighting. He became an apt pupil form is terrifyingly vicious. The were- incompetent superior, Kelemvor simply whose rapid progress in the deadly arts panther attacks as a 5 Hit Die monster, leaves. delighted Kendrel. The father never striking with the claws on its two front The werepanther form is more animal- guessed his son’s motivation. He was paws, doing 1d4 points damage for istic in its behavior, but retains enough of sure it was the family bloodline proving each paw. The werepanther will also Kelemvor’s memories that it will not true. He would soon know how right he bite for 1d8 points of damage. attack Kelemvor’s friends or allies. Kelem- was. The werepanther can only be vor himself has only dim memories of When Kelemvor was 13, he reached a harmed by silver or magical weapons of what the panther does or feels. turning point in his life, meeting Lilian-

34 MAJOR CHARACTERS na, a 15-year-old beauty who reminded Kelemvor of his lost nanny. She was full of laughter, art, song, and an indomita- ble love for Kelemvor despite his gruff exterior. She slowly worked on pene- trating his emotional armor. Once again Kendrel sought to destroy the boy’s happiness. Kelemvor discov- ered his father beating Lilianna. He leaped to her defense, but was no match for his father. Kelemvor’s selfless attack on his brutal father triggered something deep inside of him. Kelemvor felt his body burn as he transformed into an adult panther. The beast tore Kendrel apart. When two bodyguards rushed into the room, the panther ripped them apart as well. Dur- ing the carnage, Lilianna cowered in the corner. Then she recognized that Kelemvor’s mind was still in control. She helped him escape the castle and flee into the woodlands. Kelemvor remembers little of the next six months. He prowled as a pan- ther most of the time; his humanity was so completely submerged that even his human form was that of a feral wild man, more animal than human. Eventu- ally his animal rage subsided and he returned again to human form and intelligence. Kelemvor’s uncle, Burne, went searching for his nephew when he learned of his brother’s death. Burne was an intelligent, kind man, very dif- ferent ffrom his cruel, petty brother. Burne recognized how different Kelem- vor was from the rest of his family, and saw, too, that Kendrel mistreated the boy badly. Burne and his adventuring company found young Kelemvor wandering in had to be taken from the purses of wid- ever did anything for personal gain, the countryside. Kel’s uncle was sad- ows and orphans. they would turn into a beast. dened to learn that the boy had inher- In a battle long ago, Kyle had the Over time, however, the curse ited the family curse, but felt no sorrow choice of defending a wounded sorcer- became unstable and only affected for Kendrel’s death. It was from his ess (who had been struck down while some of Kyle’s descendants. By the time uncle that Kelemvor learned of the protecting Kyle from a sneak attack) or the curse had passed through five gen- curse that would probably haunt him rushing through the enemies’ lines to erations of Lyonsbanes, down to for the rest of his life. sack their stronghold, which was about Kelemvor, it had mutated in a more Kyle Lyonsbane was the first and to fall. Kyle chose the latter, and the sor- unusual way, too. No longer was the only of the Lyonsbanes to receive the ceress cursed him with her dying cursed Lyonsbane required to act curse due to his own actions. Kyle was a breath. The curse would make sure unselfishly. Now, if the curse’s victim professional mercenary, and, to him, that no Lyonsbane ever worked for did something without payment, he every service had its price—even if it profit again. If Kyle or his ancestors was changed into a panther.

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Like most spiteful acts, the sorceress’s New Lycanthropes in the sum of normal human and normal curse did more damage to the world Realms animal hit dice. than it did good. Yet, Kelemvor adjust- • Number of attacks: As per animal. ed, joining Burne’s company—for pay, The magical energies unleashed dur- • Damage/attack: At least as dangerous of course. ing the divine crisis had a peculiar side as the normal animal. The panther was quiescent for the effect. As the crisis abated, reports Special attack: As per animal. next three years. It was a fresh start came in of new lycanthropic species. • Special defenses: 90% of new lycan- and a happy time of sorts. Although Some were accidentally created when thropic species can only be harmed forced to live the life of a mercenary one of these freak maelstroms of pure by silver or magical weapons of +1 warrior, Kelemvor found that he magic enveloped a human and an ani- or greater. enjoyed the martial life surrounded by mal. The two merged together into a • Magic resistance: 90% of new lycan- Burne’s companions. Kelemvor grew single being with traits of both. A sec- thropic species have no magical into a fighter to be reckoned with. ond group included those who resistance. Sometimes his dreams reminded him remained physically independent but • Size: Any hybrid forms are halfway of the life he had led and the life he gained the ability to transform into between the human and animal could have had. In his 18th year, the another’s form. A third group appears sizes. nightmare of his past gained reality. to have been deliberately created. A • Morale: Most are steady (11-12) or Burne’s company was ambushed and fourth group includes those that very steady (13-14). slaughtered to a man. Too late, Kelem- appeared as a result of long-standing Recently discovered lycanthropes vor battled the man who had taken curses; apparently these lycanthropes include: Burne’s life. The man was Kelemvor’s had always existed, but have only just Werebison: These Neutral Good eldest brother Guntharr. Brotherly hate recently come to light. All the new creatures are the largest and, so far, the fueled their battle; the blows and words lycanthropes either fill niches left unoc- only herbivorous lycanthropes. They they exchanged were equally vicious. cupied or seem to be intended to specif- are humanoids of above average size Though he was desperately outnum- ically oppose known lycanthropic who can turn into a form resembling a bered, Kelemvor fought his brother’s species. minotaur but possessing a bison-like company. This selfless act released the Individuals may acquire their lycan- head and short horns. Werebison curse again, and the beast slew Gun- thropy in an apparently spontaneous attack by charging headfirst into their tharr and every one of his men aside transformation during a time of stress. opponents; the charge does 1d4 points from a few who fled. In such cases, the new lycanthropy is of damage. The hooved feet stomp for The disheartened Kelemvor returned often related to some long dormant fac- 1d2 points of damage. They normally to the warrior life. Even here there was tor in that person’s bloodline. do not bite opponents, hence the no release from his inner torment. He Some of these new lycanthropes are spread of this form of lycanthropy is became resentful of the ultimate lack of listed below. As additional species limited only to those the werebison pur- meaning in a mercenary’s life. He espe- become known, game masters will have posely infects. cially resented incompetent superiors to develop statistics for them. Some Werecats: These Chaotic Good crea- whose decisions cost too many men guidelines for creating new lycan- tures have two forms. One resembles a their lives. Kelemvor could have been a thropes are: human-sized house cat. The other is a better leader, but he never tried. The • Climate: Any, but tending toward the hybrid with feline features (hind legs, ghost of his father, the image of a man animal’s range. head, claws, tail, and fur) over a human- corrupted by command, made sure • Frequency: Rare. oid frame. They are sworn enemies of Kelemvor never took the reins of • Organization: As per normal animal. the wererats. Werecats speak any feline authority. • Active cycle: The lycanthropic form language, even when in human form. Eventually Kelemvor left his employ- is only present during the night. Each front claw does 1d2 points of dam- ers. He felt the urge to search for a • Diet: As per animal. age or rakes for 1d3 each. The bite does prize whose form eluded him, even in • Intelligence: Any. 1d4. Even in human form, the strong dreams. Then the crisis of the gods • Treasure: Any. fingernails enable each hand to do 1 occurred. Kelemvor met up with Cyric, • Alignment: Any. point of damage. Adon, and the sorceress, Midnight. • Number appearing: As per animal. Weredogs: These Lawful Good crea- • Armor class: Normal animal AC tures resemble large dogs such as mas- minus 1d4. tiffs, St. Bernards, or German • Movement: Normal human or animal shepherds. Their bites do 1d6 points of rate (depending on form). damage. They have 3 hit dice +3. Were- • Hit Dice: Lycanthrope hit dice are the dogs appeared as a canine counter to

36 MAJOR CHARACTERS the werewolves. They are often Good- humanoid shape with distinctly dragon- can speak Common in this form. They aligned people whose personalities like features such as scales, fangs, attack with their claws (1d3 each) and were so strong that they managed to claws, wings, and a long tail. All have beaks (1d2). They fly at a rate of 18 and alter the effects of the impending lycan- wings, even those species emulating the are maneuverability class C. Wereowls thropy. Weredogs are sworn to destroy non-winged gold dragons. Each of these are the natural enemies of the harpies. the more numerous and powerful creatures have the same alignment as Werepanthers: These Lawful Neu- werewolves. Unfortunately, most peo- the dragon it resembles. They have 8 tral lycanthropes turn into sleek black ple still have trouble telling weredogs hit dice. Their bites and clawed hands panthers or slim, athletic humans with and werewolves apart. Consequently, each do 1d6 points of damage. They can dark hair and a slight trace of elven fea- those the weredog tries to help may be also use the dragon’s breath weapon tures. It is unknown which is the were- scared and turn against it. once each day. panther’s real form (50% chance either Weredolphins: These are Lawful Wereleopards: These Lawful Neu- way). Werepanthers move silently at Good beings that are able to transform tral lycanthropes transform into shapes great speed (12) and climb easily, even themselves into elf-like humanoids or similar to spotted leopards. They have a when carrying a burden equal to the bottlenose dolphins. Weredolphins hybrid form that combines the overall their weight. Their ebony coats make attack by ramming (2d4 points of dam- humanoid shape with leopard-like feet, them difficult to spot in the dark. age). They can summon 1d10 dolphins tail, pelt, face, and ears. Wereleopards Werespiders: These Lawful Evil or other small cetaceans or 1d2 whales. move silently at great speed (12) and creatures turn into giant web-spinning During the day, weredolphins may rest climb easily, even when carrying a bur- spiders with poisonous bites. Even as atop whales or come ashore. They are den equal to their weight. humans, they are skilled weavers and the enemies of the weresharks and Wereowls (“Wrowls”): These Neu- spinners. Werespiders are firm believ- wereseals. tral Good beings are the first known ers in a society as strictly ordered as Weredragons: These are people avian lycanthropes. They transform at their webs. They detest Chaotic spider- who are able to transform themselves night into man-sized great snowy owls. like monsters. into a hybrid form that combines a Wereowls, which are highly intelligent,

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Prince Tristan communicates by empathy. Its Intelli- cares when danger was not pressing on gence is 12, and its Ego 13. If Kazgaroth him, trying to drown his sorrows in Kendrick is within 36” of the sword, and the drink and carousing. This did nothing ARMOR CLASS: -1 wielder touches the sword by the hilt, to endear him to his father, who saw MOVE: 12” he must make a successful saving him first as an unworthy wastrel, and Hit Points: 37-95 throw vs. spell or be compelled to seek then as a good war officer who was still NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 out the monster and battle it directly. incompetent as a peacetime leader. DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 + 1/1d8 + 4 Tristan also rides the white stallion When his father was slain by assas- (Normal long sword/ Sword of Cymry- Avalon, a war horse who is very similar sins (see background), Tristan was first ch Hugh) to a paladin’s war horse. Avalon is larg- cast adrift. But he found his path in try- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil er than any other horse on the Moon- ing to track down his father’s murder- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil shaes. Possession of this steed gives the ers, and the path took him to his true MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil rider command over the fighting serv- heritage, as high king of the Ffolk of the SIZE: M ices of the Sister Knights of Synnoria, Moonshae Isles. ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good otherwise known as the Warriors of the Motivations: Initially, Tristan’s PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Llewyrr. These are a troop of elven motivation was both to live up to his 12th-Level Human Ranger warrior maidens. The troop never father’s exacting standards and to avoid S:17 I:16 W:14 D:18 C:17 CH:18 numbers more than 25 (there were 20 the onerous duties of being the prince when they first took service with Tris- of Corwell whenever he could. This Physical description: Tristan is a tan), and each is a third-level fighter constant contradiction in motivation young human male who, early in his with AC 1, riding a heavy war horse drove him to drink and other excesses. career, seemed to have no care in the with the speed and maneuverability of But the coming of Kazgaroth made him world. When in times of peace, Tristan a medium horse. These horses are realize that he owed the duty of leader- wears the usual Ffolk garb of cloak and mares and geldings of Avalon’s herd. ship to his people, and the machinations trousers and boots. He has a new coat The troop is led by Brigit, a fifth-level of the Council of Wizards made him of hair on his chin. fighter. realize that he had to unite all of the In combat, Tristan wears a suit of Tristan’s other main “equipment” is Ffolk under one strong ruler to keep banded mail armor and favors a long Canthus, a moor hound from the isle of them and their way of life intact against sword. He is an indifferent archer, Moray. Canthus is a large and powerful the threats of Kazgaroth, the though he has learned more as he has specimen of the already powerful Northmen, and the people of the main- progressed in experience. breed, with a proud bearing unusual land. As high king, Tristan wears the crown for its kind. His brown coat gleams, Background: Tristan was prince of of the high king, which is a simple gold thick and smooth, over broad shoul- Corwell, son of King Bryon Kendrick of circlet with eight points. ders and long, slender, but powerful the royal line of Corwell. His mother Equipment: Tristan wields the legs. His teeth are the size of a man’s lit- died a few years after he was born, and Sword of Cymrych Hugh, a long sword tle finger. his father mourned her for 10 years first used by his ancestor to defeat Canthus is a war dog (see MONSTER after that, in some part blaming Tristan Kazgaroth and found the line of the MANUAL) but he has 3 + 3 hit dice, 20 for her death. high kings. When he found it, its hilt hit points, and an armor class of 5. His King Bryon was determined to make was wrapped in old, dull, leather, and it damage per attack is 1d8 + 2. Canthus his son a good ruler for Corwell, but rode in a scabbard of dull, brown, leath- has a dog’s normal intelligence, but is lacked the ability to make such a goal er. The blade, however, is silver, and it inspired by the Goddess to protect and interesting to Tristan. Bryon also had shines with a light all its own. The blade serve Tristan. Canthus also wears a the care of Robyn, the young daughter is emblazoned with a crest and motto in torque of the Goddess (see Robyn) of the great druid, Brianna Moonsinger, the Old Script. According to the “Ballad under his spiked iron collar. who had died trying to destroy of Cymrych Hugh,” the sword was Personality: Initially, Tristan was Kazgaroth single-handedly. Tristan forged by dwarven smiths from metal outwardly carefree and inwardly trou- grew up with Robyn, at first thinking forged by the Goddess herself. bled by his father’s constant criticism. her his sister, then, as he realized there This sword is a long sword +4. It has As events transpired in the Moonshae was no real relationship, his brotherly a special purpose of defeating Isles, first with the advent of Kazgaroth fondness turned to love. Kazgaroth. Its special purpose power is and then the machinations of the Coun- However, he continued to disappoint to cause fear in its target for 1d4 cil of Wizards, he became more self- his father until, on a hunting trip with rounds. It detects evil in a 2” radius and confident and assertive. However, he his tutor, the arms master Arlen, still had a tendency to retreat from his Robyn, his old friend Pawldo, his new

38 MAJOR CHARACTERS hound Canthus, and his new friend Daryth of Calimshan, he ran afoul of fir- bolgs, and Arlen was killed. He was saved by Keren, the greatest bard of the Moonshaes, and learned that the high king felt there was a threat looming for Corwell. When Keren disappeared after leav- ing Corwell for Alaron, Tristan and his friends attempted to find him and finally followed his trail to Myrloch Vale where they rescued him and the dwarf Finellen from the firbolgs and discov- ered the fabled Sword of Cymrych Hugh in a firbolg treasure house. Going back to Corwell, the party dis- covered that the Northmen had invad- ed in force, destroying several cantrevs and marching on Corwell itself. More- over, a party of Northmen were going through Myrloch Vale in an attempt to cut off the retreat of the refugees from the cantrevs and keep them from rein- forcing Corwell. Attempting to catch the Northmen, Tristan and his friends first found the stallion Avalon and the Sisters of Synno- ria, then met Finellen again, this time with a party of dwarves who had been sent to oppose the firbolgs going to join the Northmen under Kazgaroth’s direc- tion. Tristan forged the elven war maidens, the dwarves, and refugees from the cantrevs into a force that met the Northmen on the road and drove them away, allowing the refugees to escape to Corwell. Canthus was seemingly killed at this time, though his body was not recovered. In fact, Canthus was revived by Gen- na Moonsinger, the great druid of Gwy- nneth, who sent him off to oppose the destroyed almost all of the Bloodriders, bring all but Keren (who had been dis- werewolf who had taken command of and Tristan wounded Kazgaroth. The integrated) back to life. the Pack, one of the “children” of the beast gave up his plan of conquest and For the next year, Tristan helped his Goddess. fled. Tristan and his friends followed, father supervise the recovery of Cor- Tristan and his friends arrived in Cor- finally confronting Kazgaroth again at well. However, his father was still criti- well to find it besieged by Thelgar the Moonwell Kazgaroth had corrupt- cal of his every effort, so he spent much Ironhand (actually Kazgaroth) of Oman, ed. of his time in carousing and hunting to who had already slain the Leviathan, In a hard-fought battle, they finally avoid his father’s eye. Also, in the another of the Goddess’ children. brought the beast low, slaying it with a course of the fight against Kazgaroth, Tristan fought Kazgaroth and the combination of the sword and druidic Robyn had discovered her heritage as a besieging Northmen, finally wounding magic. By the end of the fight, Tristan, druid, and went off to Myrloch Vale to the monster sorely. When Canthus led Pawldo, Daryth, and Keren had all study the arts with her newly discov- the Pack into the Northmen, Robyn fallen, but the Goddess was able to ered aunt, Genna Moonsinger, the great

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druid. Tristan, who had fallen finally When Cyndre led the Scarlet Guard to time depicted in the three books of The and irrevocably in love with Robyn, destroy O’Roarke’s hideout, the friends Moonshae Trilogy, Tristan is how you was also devastated by her absence, managed to get away, incidentally ful- find him in the books, a young man and tried to solace himself in his revel- filling most of the aspects of Queen Alli- much worried by fate and trying to ries. syn’s prophecy on the way. make the Moonshaes a safe place for However, a year after Kazgaroth was Finally, they defeated Cyndre and the himself and his people again. slain, the machinations of Cyndre and high king in a climatic battle, and Tris- The period between the first two his Council of Sorcerers came to frui- tan was proclaimed the new high king, books of the trilogy is an interesting tion. Assassins attacked Tristan and his having fulfilled all the conditions of the time to know Tristan, as he is a great father and killed the king. Daryth, com- prophecy. hero, yet still chafing at the duties of ing to their aid, recognized Razfallow, a From Alaron they journeyed back to being a prince. At this time, he makes a half-orc assassin he had known in Myrloch Vale, to find it devastated by rather desperate hunting and drinking Calimshan. Hobarth, Bhaal himself, and a corrupt- companion, trying to lose his sorrow Tristan was not necessarily the first ed Genna Moonsinger. By clever diplo- over the departure of Robyn to choice to assume his father‘s crown. He macy, Tristan managed to enlist Myrloch Vale and the ongoing criti- was opposed by Pontswain, a cantrev Grunnarch, the last king of the cisms of his father. At this time, he is lord with a royal lineage who attempted Northmen, on his side and find a force ready for any adventure to take his to parlay his long experience and Tris- to oppose Bhaal and his minions. In this mind off his self-pity. tan’s youth into his selection as the new final struggle they lost good friends, After the time of the Trilogy, Tristan is king. such as Daryth, but finally managed to a fair and powerful king, who rules the It was decided to let the high king prevail. Ffolk and influences the Northmen as decide, but when Pontswain and Tris- Now Tristan is the monarch of all the well. Domestic relationships are quiet, tan (with Daryth and Canthus) attempt- Moonshaes, and he and Robyn must but there are still monsters loose ed to go to Alaron, their boat was face a new Moonshae unlike anything throughout Gwynneth and the other sabotaged and they found themselves they have known before. isles, thanks to the efforts of Hobarth washed up on the castle of Queen Alli- With the destruction of much of and Bhaal. Newcomer adventurers, syn, where Tristan was told that a new Myrloch Vale, and the destruction of perhaps brought to the Moonshaes by high king would be selected who bore most of the druids of the Moonshaes, stories of combat and loot to be found, the Sword of Cymrych Hugh. They the Goddess is no longer a major force can get plenty of work from King Tris- were then picked up by a passing bard in the Moonshae Islands. New gods are tan to help the people clean up the mon- and taken to Alaron. coming to the islands, and somehow sters that still threaten them. There they were arrested by the they must be accommodated, and the If someone should get into combat Scarlet Guard of the high king, who was Ffolk and Northmen must find a way to with Tristan at any time in his career, convinced that Tristan was there to accommodate their ways of life to these they will find him a good close-in fight- assassinate him. new gods. Tristan and Robyn, with er, who rarely uses missile weapons Rescued by Pawldo and Daryth, Tris- Grunnarch, must somehow lead their when he can close with a sword. Of tan and Pontswain were forced to go combined people into this new, fright- course, when the sword is that of deep into the earth, where they found ening, age. Cymrych Hugh, one can understand his first Alexei, one of the Council of Sor- Other notes: Using Tristan in a cam- preference for that weapon. cerers, whom Cyndre had imprisoned paign set in the Moonshaes depends on On a more peaceful note, Tristan is a there. Then, as they escaped through a the time period in which the DM sets very open and trusting young man. He secret passage that led out of Caer Calli- the adventure. If set in the time depict- is easily guiled and fooled by a friendly dyrr, they found Finellen, who was ed in FR2, MOONSHAE, Tristan is a voice and manner. If he finds he has leading a force of dwarves sent to hunt young lad, perhaps 10 years old, and been fooled, however, he is quick to duergar (gray dwarves). already suffering from the moodiness anger and want revenge. Con men Eventually finding their way to the and grim authority of his father. should consider carefully their plots if surface again, Tristan joined forces If set in the time just before the they think to take advantage of his good with O’Roarke, a nobleman who had advent of Kazgaroth, Tristan is a popu- nature. been disinherited by the high king and lar but little-respected young prince who had set himself up in the forest as still trying to find a place in the world an outlaw. that he enjoys without the onerous There, he was met by Robyn, who duties of being a prince. At this time he was fleeing the destruction of the can be an interesting chance-met tav- Moonwell on Corwell by Hobarth. ern or hunting companion. During the

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The Royal Line of the married the daughter of a major chief- lost. In a hundred years, the Northmen Moonshaes tain of Gwynneth and had three chil- had settled in Norland, Norheim, Oman, dren before she died in childbirth. He and northern Alaron and Gwynneth, Many hundred years ago, the king of remarried again and had two more chil- and relations with them settled down to the small kingdom of Callidyrr on the dren before he finally died of complica- occasional raids and counter-raids. island of Alaron united the Ffolk of the tions arising from the wounds he Conn had rescued the Sword of Moonshaes to fight the incursions of received in the battle with Kazgaroth so Cymrych Hugh, but that proved no the beast who had named himself many years before. His oldest son, who more potent than any other good Kazgaroth. With the blessings of the was only 13, took over the crown of the sword against the Northmen invaders. Goddess and a sword forged for him by high king, and Cymrych Hugh’s other A hundred years later, when the the finest of dwarven craftsmen, children married into the noble families Northmen had become just another Cymrych Hugh faced Kazgaroth. The of the Isles and became the progenitors fact of life to the Ffolk, another high might of the sword and the king drove of all the kings of the Moonshaes. The king led his men into Myrloch Vale to the beast back to the darkened recesses war with Kazgaroth had destroyed quell firbolg incursions into Corwell. of his home, badly wounded but not most of the ruling families, so the chil- The Ffolk were ambushed and, though killed. There it remained for many cen- dren and grandchildren of Cymrych the Ffolk won the fight, the high king turies. Hugh rapidly became part of the blood- slain in the fighting. The sword was not Cymrych Hugh returned to Callidyrr lines of all the royal families. recovered. Apparently, firbolg survi- to build the spectacular Caer Callidyrr, Moreover, even the husbands of his vors of the fight took it away with them the seat of the high kings, and to deal daughters took Cymrych as a family and stored it in their treasuries, where with his sorrow. name. Within a couple of centuries, it was eventually recovered by Tristan Queen Allisynn: Cymrych Hugh every noble family in the Moonshaes Kendrick. survived the war with Kazgaroth, had Cymrych as a family name. The names of Cymrych Hugh: though he was sorely wounded. His Unfortunately, this was the only uni- About 400 years ago, when the crown young queen, Allisynn, was not so for- fying factor among them. While each of Cymrych Hugh had been lost and the tunate. In honor of his love for this ruler gave lip service to the primacy of various kingdoms and cantrevs were queen, Cymrych Hugh had a palace cre- the high king, each attempted to other- moving further and further away from ated to house her body and vast trea- wise promote his own importance to allegiance to the high king, the names of sures. This castle resides on an island the detriment of the others. the royal families began to change. that spends most of its time at the bot- When the Northmen arrived from Many of the families had Cymrych as tom of the Strait of Alaron, but rises to the Sword Coast, they found a collec- their name, so the various branches the surface perhaps four times a year tion of squabbling kingdoms, ready- took to spelling and pronouncing their on particularly bright days so that his made for conquest. The reigning high particular names differently. Thus, the queen can once again enjoy the sun- king, Dolan Cymrych, attempted to royal line of Corwell derived Kendrick light. meet the Northmen at the northern tip from Cymrych. The sahuagin of the area use the cas- of Alaron, near what is now Sunder- Thus, when Queen Allisynn said that tle as a way point for their patrols. They staad, but he made the mistake of Tristan was to see a high king who held are too evil to touch the treasures safe- attempting to cross Whitefish Bay in a the Sword of Cymrych Hugh and was ly, but they oppose anyone who might coracle flotilla. They were met by the named Cymrych, she was really talking be allowed to touch the treasures in a fast-sailing long ships of the Northmen, about Tristan himself, and she proved typical display of sahuagin spite. and the flotilla was virtually destroyed. this true by bringing the crown of the When Tristan Kendrick was adrift on Dolan died trying to cover his followers’ high king to Tristan when his followers the strait, the castle appeared to him retreat, and the crown of the high kings were proclaiming him the new high king. and, when he explored it, he saw Queen went to the bottom of the sea. Thus, Tristan is the first high king in Allisynn, who returned the Sword of Dolan’s son, Conn, survived the bat- centuries to possess both the crown Cymrych Hugh to him (it had been lost tle, but the loss of the crown (not to and sword of the high king. That, and in the shipwreck that set him adrift). mention the battle) was a severe blow the destruction of so many royal fami- She also gave him a prophecy that to his position. While he was the undis- lies of the Moonshaes — thanks to the stated that a new high king would arise puted high king, his authority was depradations of Kazgaroth and the who held the sword and had the name undermined. Each lord paid his machinations of Cyndre and Hobarth, of Cymrych. respects to the high king but gave him should make him the greatest high king The sons of Cymrych Hugh: no attention. Instead, each small king to reign in the history of the Moonshaes Cymrych Hugh had to remarry to pro- and cantrev lord attempted to fight the since Cymrych Hugh himself. vide more high kings to follow him. He Northmen in his own way, and usually

41 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Midnight Fourth-level — Enchanted weapon, born Ariel Manx, the second child of dimension door, fire charm, fire Theus Manx. Theus was a merchant ARMOR CLASS: 10 shield, ice storm, Leomund’s secure who was entirely without dreams or MOVE: 12” shelter, massmorph, polymorph oth- imagination. He understood hard work Hit Points: 19 ers, polymorph self. for honest pay; he had no patience for NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 She is able to use four first-level, those seeking shortcuts in life. He was a DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or three second-level, two third-level, and modest man with simple expectations spell one fourth-level spell each day. As a gift for his future. He would have liked at SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use from Mystra, Midnight possesses a per- least one son, but accepted the two SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil manently active form of detect magic. daughters Paiyse bore him. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Combat: Because of her low Paiyse wanted nothing but the best SIZE: M (5’6”) Strength, she is -1 to hit. Midnight is a for her family. She was very insecure ALIGNMENT: Lawful Neutral cautious woman. If she is alone, she will and self-conscious. She constantly wor- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil attempt to turn invisible and fly away. If ried about finances, the family’s rela- Seventh-Level Human Magic-User battling alongside companions, she will tively low social standing, and her S:6 I:16 W:10 D:11 C:10 CH:17 quietly move to a position that offers self-perceived faults. She never accept- her both protection and the maximum ed the truth that she was a very attrac- Armor: None. ability to use her offensive spells. If she tive woman and a loving mother. Languages: Common, Elven, Dwar- lacks such spells, she will attempt to dis- Rysanna, the oldest daughter, was the ven. tract opponents and decrease their abil- daughter every parent dreams of hav- Possessions: Dagger, staff, ity to defend themselves from her ing. Rysanna was always willing to help spellbooks. Midnight’s main spellbook is companions. around the house or assist Theus’ busi- bound in heavy black leather and is Appearance: Midnight is a thin ness. She assumed the role of the fami- trimmed with a pewter clasp, hinges, woman in her late 20s with tight, wiry ly’s demure “princess” whenever and an “M” rune to mark its owner. The muscles. She has jet black hair and deep wealthy suitors called. book measures 16” by 12” and is 6” ebon and scarlet eyes, a sharp contrast Ariel was a year younger and radical- thick. Midnight’s traveling spellbook to her pale ivory skin. The hair reaches ly different. What she didn’t find in the matches the larger tome. It is bound in to her waist, but she usually braids it normal world of her parents, she found matching black leather and has a simi- during the day. She prefers black, indi- in the nocturnal world of the streets. As lar “M” rune embroidered on its cover. go, or deep violet clothing. a teenager, she became a familiar part The book measures 8” by 6” and is 1” Personality: In her early days, Mid- of the night’s populace of bards, thick. night was a hell-raiser and a hedonist, thieves, sorcerers, and fighters. She Weapons of proficiency: Dagger dedicated to serving her own interests. became friends with everyone who (1d4/1d31), staff (1d6/1d6). She was very tough, very capable, and appreciated impish beauty and adven- Experience points: 65,000. very self-assured. turous spirit. Her friends gave her the Money: 375 gp. When she wants to be sociable, she name “Midnight,” one she immediately Spells: Midnight’s spellbook includes can ignite her sultry beauty and sensu- preferred to Ariel. the following spells. Those marked by ality. In her youth, she was extremely A tryst with the conjurer Tar gave her an asterisk are ones she most likely promiscuous and freely traded her her first taste of magic and set the pat- retains on a given day: favors for magical training. But during tern for her life. She became less inter- • First-Level — Armor, charm person, the crisis of the gods, she changed. She ested in hedonistic pursuits and more comprehend languages, feather fall, became a crusader determined to free in the quest for magical knowledge and magic missile*, run, Tensor’s floating humanity from the gods who more training. She became obsessed with her disk, identify read magic*, shocking often preyed upon them than helped new quest. grasp, sleep*. them. Rysanna was outwardly repulsed by • Second-level — Continual light, dark- Midnight is guarded about her past. the havoc induced be her sister’s behav- ness (15’ radius), deep pockets, She believes she would be taken less ior, but inwardly she was intrigued by detect evil, invisibility*, levitate, seriously if she was revealed to be a magic. Rysanna shared her sister’s inde- locate object, ESP*, shutter, scare, merchant’s daughter. pendent spirit; she just hid it better. wizard lock. Relatives: Theus Manx (father), Rysanna looked to Midnight’s magic as • Third-level — Clairaudience, clair- Paiyse Manx (mother), Rysanna (sister). proof that there was more to life than voyance, feign death, fly*, fireball, Allies: Adon, Cyric, Kelemvor. following her parents’ wishes and haste, hold person, infravision, mate- Patron deity: Mystra. allowing suitors to court her. rial, suggestion, water breathing. Personal history: Midnight was Rysanna decided to secretly study

42 MAJOR CHARACTERS Midnight’s magical texts and parapher- nalia. One dark night she encountered an intruder. It was Tar, who’d come to profess his undying love for Midnight (whom he thought was with him). He poured out his heart and promised her an endless amount of wealth, adven- ture, and undying love. Without even seeing his face, Rysanna fell madly in love. The tryst that ensued was inter- rupted by the intrusion of her parents. When Midnight returned at dawn, she discovered Rysanna and Tar were now engaged, and her parents were trying to figure out how to explain a magician for a son-in-law. That day Midnight finally moved out. She fell into the worship of Mystra, god- dess of magic. She even served in a tem- ple for a time until her natural rambunctiousness made even that life unbearable. Around her 21st year, she began to feel a presence from time to time. She would feel her skin tingle cooly with the certain knowledge that she was somehow being followed or observed. She found the feeling com- forted her, especially after she noticed the benefits that resulted. It always happened that, after one of these occurences, a spell she had been labor- ing over for weeks on end would sud- denly work without any problem. Midnight suspected that she had been granted the special attention of the god- dess Mystra. She also believed that Mys- tra was watching over her, perhaps even grooming her for the position of Magister. Sunlar, a high priest in the Deepingdale temple of Mystra, took an interest in Midnight, and, under his supervision, Midnight’s knowledge of self-defense (which she had learned previously in the streets) was refined. amazed at the amount of time that had perhaps passing herself off as a carnival Her study of magic was encouraged passed. It was almost as if some outside fortune teller. She continued to feel and rewarded, too. Sunlar refused to force had tampered with her natural restless, confused, and helpless. She tell Midnight of his motives for taking restlessness. saw herself as a pawn waiting for its her under his wing. This mysterious For the next three years, Midnight moment in the game. In her 26th year, behavior fueled Midnight’s suspicions devoted herself to Mystra’s worship the veil lifted. Midnight now knew what that she had been singled out for some and pursued every scrap of magic she she was to do. The crisis of the gods had great destiny. could. Yet she felt unfulfilled, as if she arrived. Midnight spent almost a year in the were going about this in the wrong Midnight met her future allies Adon, temple at Deepingdale, and when the way. She supported herself by an occa- Kelemvor, and Cyric when they needed time came for her to leave, she was sional foray with a mercenary band, or a mage for a mission they had planned.

43 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Robyn Equipment: Robyn wears a torque the serpent is killed. Using the staff as a of the Goddess about her neck and car- snake costs one charge. ARMOR CLASS: 4-2 ries the Staff of the White Well, which is At a cost of two charges, the staff can MOVE: 12” a druid staff. be used to cast one of the following dru- Hit Points: 28-76 The torque of the Goddess is a silver idical spells: call lightning, plant NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 band worn about the neck. It is com- growth, dispel magic (as if cast by a DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6/1d6 + 2 monly used by druids and other mem- 15th-level druid), cure disease, cure SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use bers of the Ffolk. This torque functions serious wounds, speak with plants. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil in all respects as a ring of protection +2 Once per month, with no cost in MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil (most are + 1) and can be used in con- charges, the staff can perform one of SIZE: M junction with any other magical rings the following greater abilities: wall of ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good except other rings of protection. Addi- fire, insect plague, transmute rock to PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil tionally, the torque provides its wearer mud, wall of thorns, weather summon- Seventh-Level Human Druid with immunity to lycanthropy, though ing, conjure fire elemental, conjure S:14 I:16 W:18 D:16 C:16 CH:17 not the damage from a lycanthropic earth elemental, fire storm. attack. The wearer receives a +2 to all After using its greater power once, Commonly remembered spells: attack and damage rolls against a lycan- the staff only regains this ability if it is • First Level — Animal friendship, thrope. Although the torque does not recharged in the Moonwell beneath a entangle, invisibility to animals, allow a weapon that would not normal- full moon, as explained in FR2 MOON- locate animals, speak with animals. ly harm a lycanthrope to harm one, the SHAE. • Second Level — Barkskin, heat metal, wearer can harm a lycanthrope with Use of the spells of the staff by a druid locate plants, obscurement, warp his or her hands or teeth. The leaders of who does not have the experience to wood. hunting dog packs used to track lycan- normally use the spells drains the • Third Level — Plant growth, protec- thropes are often equipped with such energy of the druid. For every such tion from fire, summon insects. collars. spell used in battle, the druid must rest • Fourth Level — Cure serious The Staff of the White Well is a su- for 10 minutes after the battle. If more wounds, cause serious wounds. perior form of druid staff. It is a long than one such spell is used in a battle, • Fifth Level — Animal summoning II, staff of white ash that allows the user to the user must make a Constitution abili- insect plague, wall of fire. perform several special functions. ty check every time he uses the staff • Sixth Level — Fire seeds, weather Unlike other druid staffs that have an after the first time. If the staff is touch- summoning. animal likeness carved into them, and ed by a person or creature of Evil align- • Seventh Level — Control weather. can summon animals of all members of ment, the toucher takes 3d6 points of At seventh level, Robyn learned to the species carved on the staff, this staff damage every round he holds the staff. change her shape as other druids do at can summon animals of any species the The staff can be fully recharged by that level. bearer chooses. However, the user exposing it to the light of the full moon Physical description: Robyn’s must be specific as to the species sum- once a month. black hair gleams in the sunlight, and moned. Robyn cannot summon every Robyn also has her mother’s book of her green eyes sparkle. She is usually species in the forest at once. Each sum- druid spells. It contains all the usual clad in practical garb — a linen tunic moning takes two charges. All animals druid spells, plus the unique druid with green leggings and a cape the col- of the called species within 12 miles spells of briartangle, smoke ghost, or of bright rust. Yet her beauty out- hasten to the druid as quickly as possi- thorn spray, and death chariot. (All of shines that of the most daintily dressed ble. Once they reach the druid, they act these are described in the FORGOTTEN maidens. as if under an animal control spell. The REALMS™ DM’S SOURCEBOOK OF THE She has a hearty, feminine laugh. Her staff can also be used to cast animal con- REALMS.) black hair flows freely, settling down trol at any animal within sight of the Personality: Robyn is a bright and her back as far as her hips. Her slender staff’s user, at a cost of one charge. friendly young woman who is solicitous waist is supple and strong. The staff is also a magical weapon, of her friends and dedicated to the If in combat, Robyn wears leather with a +2 bonus to hit, inflicting woods and animals that occupy so armor and is armed with a staff. Once 1d6 + 2 points of damage on a success- much of her time. She is much beloved she obtained the Staff of the White ful hit. The staff also functions as a in Corwell for her sunny personality Well, she used it as a weapon, as is python staff with the characteristics of and caring attitude. reflected in the game stats above. the staff of the serpent as detailed in the However, when she or her friends are Robyn also wears a silver torque of the DUNGEON MASTERS GUIDE. This threatened, she can turn into a tigress Goddess around her neck. includes the destruction of the staff if in defense. Unlike many druids, who

44 MAJOR CHARACTERS will wait for later revenge against despoilers of nature, Robyn is ready to attack when the action happens. Motivations: Robyn is dedicated to the wild woods. Even before she knew of her heritage as a druid, Robyn was good with animals and an excellent tracker. However, she never hunted, though she accompanied her friend Tristan on his hunts. She used the time in the forest to sharpen her woods skills and gather healing herbs. Once she learned of her heritage as the daughter of one great druid and the niece of another, she dedicated herself to becoming as good a druid as her mother and aunt. When Hobarth attempted to destroy the Moonwell, she fought him with every spell and skill at her command. The only motivation that matches her devotion to the forest is her love for Tristan. Background notes: Robyn is the daughter of Brianna Moonsinger, form- er chief druid (Neutral cleric who wor- ships The Balance of nature) of the Moonshaes, and niece of Genna Moon- singer, the current chief druid. Her father is unknown. When she was a year old, Brianna brought her daughter to King Bryon for safekeeping while she tried to prevent the growth of Kazgaroth. She failed. The king raised Robyn as his own, saying that she was the daughter of a favorite guardsman who died in battle. In this way, he tried to keep her and her obvious power from being corrupted by the evil growing in the land. When Kazgaroth arose, Robyn already had an instinctive knowledge of several druid spells, though she had no king gave her the Staff of the White of the Bloodriders, then was abducted idea of how she knew them. By the time Well and the magic spellbook that had by the sole survivor, their leader, who of the events of DARKWALKER ON been her mothers. With these items attempted to sacrifice her to renew his MOONSHAE, she had gained the fourth she gained more expertise rapidly. powers. The intervention of Genna level of experience as a druid without In a battle with Kazgaroth, when he Moonsinger and her friends Newt and realizing what she was doing. She first turned himself into a winged beast, and Kammryn the Unicorn kept her safe realized her powers when she used an she attempted to attack it where it and gave her the knowledge of how to entangle spell to keep the gigantic fir- rested in Caer Corwell, using both the recharge the staff, which she had bolgs from killing Prince Tristan. staff and her own magic to good effect depleted in the siege. She then used the In the initial stages of the battle until her friends could arrive to drive staff and her own magic to help Tristan against Kazgaroth, she found herself the monster off. and the others slay Kazgaroth. capable of many feats of druid magic. In the climactic moments of the siege Once Kazgaroth had been destroyed, When she next saw King Bryon, the of Caer Corwell, Robyn destroyed most Robyn realized that she had to learn

45 MAJOR CHARACTERS more of her heritage and power. She Robyn shape-shifted and flew to the isle Yazilliclik came to Robyn’s attention temporarily turned her back on the of Alaron, where Tristan was trying to when he attempted to warn the druids prince she loved and went to Myrloch stay alive against the efforts of the high of the undead invasion. The wood Vale with the great druid, her aunt Gen- king. sprites are a timid folk, but he stayed to na Moonsinger, who taught her more The rune stick and her own magics help the druids as best he could with his about being a druid and helped her and staff served them well in Alaron, tiny bow and arrows, and then went learn to change shape as druids do and and the rune stick incidentally helped with Robyn and Newt to Alaron to join gain more spells. Tristan fulfill all the requirements of Tristan. Then Hobarth, the priest of Bhaal, the prophecy of Queen Allisynn. Though small, his abilities of flight came to Corwell. He had two purposes, Together with their other allies, they and invisibility proved helpful on sev- sent to him by Bhaal. One was to managed to overcome the machina- eral occasions, and his unfailing cour- destroy the power of the druids in Gwy- tions of the high king and Cyndre. age when he or his friends were nneth, the other was to capture Robyn, When that menace was ended, a giant confronted by danger was an inspira- the druid who had slain Kazgaroth, and waterspout placed the crown of the tion to all who fought alongside him. offer her up in sacrifice to Bhaal. high king at their feet, and Robyn care- Anyone meeting Robyn is likely to Toward these purposes, he found a fully placed it on the head of her prince, find her with an animal of some sort. great and powerful artifact of power. now the high king of the Moonshaes. This does not just mean domestic crea- When Tristan and Robyn slew They then turned back to Gwynneth, tures such as Canthus, but bears, swal- Kazgaroth, one part of the beast sur- where they had to defeat Hobarth, or lows, eagles, and any other woodland vived, his heart, which turned into a the Goddess would be destroyed. creature that might be in her vicinity. black rock of great malignancy. This Throughout this extended final bat- This affinity with wild creatures was rock was found by Trahearn, a druid tle, Robyn used her powers to help Tris- one of the first signs of Robyn’s bur- subverted to Kazgaroth, and it drove tan and try to maintain the Goddess, geoning druidic powers. him mad. He tried to slay Robyn, but but the opposition of the corrupted In a fight, Robyn stays away from failed. Robyn, detecting the malignancy Genna Moonsinger made this virtually edged weapons, preferring first a cud- of the rock but not understanding its impossible. By the end of the struggle, gel, and then the Staff of the White true evil, had her friend Newt fly the Myrloch Vale was devastated, without a Well. Her spell use is usually con- rock away and drop it in the forest. growing thing anywhere except in spe- strained to spells that constrict and Hobarth was drawn to the heart and cially protected places such as Synno- annoy, rather than kill. However, she is rescued it from the steadily growing ria. The Goddess’ power on the capable of killing in defense of herself circle of dead foliage around it. Moonshae was virtually destroyed, and or those she holds dear. Using the heart, Hobarth went to the Robyn was the only surviving druid. As consort to the high king, Robyn site of Tristan’s first battle with the Now she must somehow make a place makes it her particular duty to try to Northmen a year before, and raised up for what is left of the Goddess to sur- restore Myrloch Vale to its previous an army of undead from the mass vive in the face of the new gods coming state. She is likely to find adventurers of graves there. He marched this army to to the Moonshaes from the Sword similar inclination to seek out artifacts the Moonwell, knowing that the druids, Coast and beyond. of the Goddess, where they may be held masters of nature magic, had no magic Other notes: Robyn has two friends by firbolgs or other monsters, and that would affect such unnatural crea- who have not yet been described. One restore them to the vale. tures. is Newt, the fairy dragon, and the other Robyn fought by her mentor’s side in is Yazilliclik, a wood sprite. Newt is the a number of holding actions. When the complete hedonist until confronted remaining druids formed their line for with a task that needs to be done to save the last-ditch defense of the Moonwell, his friends, then he digs in and does his the center of their religion, Genna gave best. The minute a threat is over, how- Robyn a rune stick with spells of all the ever, Newt is eager to begin another elements — to be used as needed. game or play a practical joke on Robyn Robyn fought with her fellow druids or some woodland animal. until all was lost. But when the Goddess As might be expected of so flighty a turned all her faithful druids into stone fairy dragon, Newt is a very young statues to save them from final degra- member of his race. His spell use is dation, Robyn had been drawn away restricted to harmless illusions that do from the fight. Realizing she could do nothing but confuse a foe. He has no no more against the victorious Hobarth, effect on reality.

46 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Shandril Shessair absorb spells and use their force of art blasted their way into the cellars below. as raw energy held within her. She Then they used the great caverns ARMOR CLASS: 10 (or by armor) could use her power to heal, or to harm they’d created as a lair for the dracolich MOVE: 12” in the form of fiery blasts. The cult kid- Rauglothgor the Proud, whose hoard Hit Points: 6 napped her to learn the secrets of had outgrown his own lair. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 spellfire, as it was called, for their own Gorstag continued on to Deepingdale, DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type use, or at least to control her use of it to where he used some gems from past SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spellfire further their schemes. adventures to buy an inn in Highmoon. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Spellfire Garthond protected and worked Counting on his relative obscurity in MAGIC RESISTANCE: Special magic with Dammasae . . . and they came the eyes of the cult, he raised Shandril SIZE: M to love each other. They traveled much, as a servant there. He hid her lineage as ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good seeking adventure as many fools do, long as he could. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil and pledged their troth before the altar At the age of 16, she left the inn, hav- First-Level Human Thief of Mystra in Baldur’s Gate. ing secured for herself a position with Fifth-Level Spellfire Wielder Unbeknown to Garthond, a cult the Company of the Bright Spear as a S:11 I:10 W:14 D:15 C:14 CH:9 mage, one Erimmator, cursed him in a thief. By Tymora’s will, they ran into a battle of the art. This curse bound a large party of the Cult of the Dragon on Shandril is a pretty, blonde-haired strange creature called a balhiir, from the banks of the Semberflow. The com- young woman of 17 winters. She tends another plane of existence, in symbiosis pany was all but destroyed, and Shan- to act on the advice of her heart and not with Garthond to drain his magic. dril taken captive. her head, and is generally good- They dwelt quietly in Elturel, and They held her in an old tomb, from natured. She has an unshakable faith in Dammasae bore Garthond a daughter, which she escaped through magic hid- the essential goodness of the world Shandril Shessair. They did not return den there. Unfortunately, she was tele- around her, although this does not to the Tower Tranquil and the dales, for ported into the devil-infested city of mean that she is foolishly trusting of the cult waited in strength, and the dan- Myth Drannor where she was captured strangers. Far too many of the dark ger to their child was great. They wait- by The Shadowsil, arch-mage of the forces in the Realms would see her ed eight months until she was old Cult of the Dragon. The Shadowsil saw dead or enslaved for her to have that enough to travel. an immediate value in the virgin blood view, for she is the sole recipient of They left Elturel with Gorstag, a bur- of Shandril, a key ingredient in main- spellfire in this generation. ly fighter who favored the battle-ax. taining the undead status of the cult’s Her father was Garthond, an appren- East they went, overland, and the cult dracoliches. tice to the mage Jhavanter. The two of was waiting for them. Somehow they The apprentice magic-user Narm saw them fought several times against the saw through the disguises, probably by her kidnapping and enlisted the help of Cult of the Dragon in Sembia. Jhavanter art. The cult attacked them at the the Knights of Myth Drannor to rescue held an old tower on the eastern flanks Bridge of Fallen Man on the road west her. With the aid of the Knights, Elmin- of the Thunder Peaks, which he called of Cormyr. Garthond was thrown down ster, and Narm, she was rescued from the Tower Tranquil. Garthond dwelt and utterly destroyed, but he won vic- the very jaws of the dracolich there with him until mages of the cult tory for his wife and daughter, and for Rauglothgor. destroyed his master in battle. After- Gorstag. He took nine cult mages and In the confusion, Narm and Shandril ward, Garthond continued his studies three swordsmen with him. Dammasae were trapped in a cave-in. The Shadow- and his feud with the cult. and Gorstag were wounded, and made sil followed them, intent on making He grew in power, and survived many for Shadowdale. Dammasae did not their deaths very slow. In desperation, attempts on his life by the cult. In a dar- make it. She is buried on a little knoll on Shandril stuck her on the head with a ing raid upon a cult caravan, Garthond the north side of the road, the first one crystal, releasing a balhiir, a magic rescued the magic-user Dammasae close to the road west of Toad Knoll, a absorbing creature feared by all who from cult captivity — they had her place holy to Mystra. practice the art, possibly even the very drugged, bound, and gagged — in the Gorstag took the babe Shandril and one that had ridden her father. In its caravan heading to one of their strong- headed south toward Deepingdale. He presence, The Shadowsil’s magic did holds. intended to leave her with the elves and not work, and they escaped. Dammasae had adventured with Gor- return to the Tower Tranquil for Meanwhile, the Knights and Elmin- stag and others before this. She was Garthond’s writings and objects of mag- ster were holding off the dracolich. known for a natural power she had — a ic which were Shandril’s inheritance. When Shandril and Narm reappeared, power she wanted to develop, by prac- The elves brought word to him that the the balhiir followed, foiling all of Elmin- tice and experiment. Dammasae could cult had broken into the tower and ster’s magic. To rid the party of the pes-

47 MAJOR CHARACTERS ening the life of Narm, or if that is not possible, to destroy her so that others cannot do the same. Shandril is unlikely to ever gain more levels as a thief. To do so, she would have to adventure without using the spellfire power, something she is not likely to do. As a wielder of spellfire, she has fifth-level ability, the highest ever known to be held. From this point on, she breaks new ground with spellfire. Balhiir FREQUENCY: Very rare NO. APPEARING: 1 ARMOR CLASS: 8 MOVE: 0”/18” HIT DICE: 18 Hit Points: Special % IN LAIR: 0 TREASURE TYPE: Nil NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 DAMAGE/ATTACK: Nil SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below MAGIC RESISTANCE: Special INTELLIGENCE: Animal ALIGNMENT: Neutral SIZE: M (6’-diameter cloud) PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil LEVEL/X.P. VALUE: IX/15,000

Normally seen as a man-sized, shape- less, softly glowing cloud with diamond like sparks of light inside it, the balhiir can flow and ooze like any gaseous form, never having a distinct outline. It is constrained by solid objects and needs an aperture of at least 1” in diam- eter to pass through. It has no manipu- ky balhiir, Elminster asked Shandril to the power of spellfire. He took them to lative organs at all, and it not affected try to absorb all of the energy of the Shadowdale, where he tested and by weather or gusts of wind, even mov- balhiir. This awakened the dormant refined her ability. Despite several ing through water uninhibited. They power of spellfire in her, inherited from attempts on their lives by the Zhen- are completley unaffected by physical her mother. Filled to the point of tarim and the Cult of the Dragon, Narm weapons, which just pass through exploding, Shandril released the and Shandril were married in Shadow- them. balhiir’s energy as destructive bolts, dale. A native of the Negative Material destroying Rauglothgar, a large party of Every mage in the Realms is vying to Plane, the balhiir is rarely seen on the the cult, and most of the mountain on hold or destroy Shandril. Her spellfire Prime Material Plane, as it takes very which they stood. power represents danger to all spell- powerful magic to trap one and remove Elminster quickly realized that this casters, and a chance for incredible it from its native plane. It is not known could not be only the work of the power. They seek to find a way to con- if they are intelligent, though they balhiir, and deduced that Shandril had trol her, maybe by holding and threat- appear to act on animal instincts rather

48 MAJOR CHARACTERS than reason. If they do possess intelli- simultaneously at it. The other way is case the DM can raise that value. Dor- gence, their reasoning processes are so related to a strange ritual discovered by mant charges in wands, rods, and alien that few men could understand a long dead arch-mage. She found a staves each represent one spell level, them. way to bind the balhiir to an object or even if the spell being cast is of a higher The balhiir seems to spend its entire creature. Once bound, the balhiir can level. If the effect of the wand is used on existence in search of energy to feed on only be bound again by the creature the wielder of spellfire, then use the and support itself. On its native plane, it that freed it. Its rescuer must either level of the spell effect. Even dragon can absorb any kind of energy, includ- repeat the ritual to bind it to another breath can be absorbed as one spell ing experience levels or a being’s life object or creature, or can attempt to level per hit die. force. Some sages think they may be the bind it to his or her own body by sheer The maximum spell levels that can be natural predators of the xeg-yi. If on force of willpower. This requires a save stored in the body is the Constitution any other plane, it can only absorb raw vs. death (since that is the price of fail- score times 10. So Shandril can hold 140 magic. Since there is not much energy ure). The total spell levels held by the spell levels worth of spellfire energy. on the Negative Material Plane, the balhiir is divided by the character’s However, the wielder takes risks any- balhiir is very efficient in its use of Constitution (round up), similar to the time the amount of spellfire energy energy. It can remain active for months spellfire danger rating. A -1 is applied goes over five times his or her Constitu- without feeding. For periods longer to the roll for each rating above 5. tion score. than that, it enters a state of hiberna- Therefore a 7 (after dividing spell levels Up to 5 × constitution: Completely tion which can last indefinitely. Only by CON) means a -2 on the save. Until safe, with no side effects. the presence of life or magical energy the creature’s spell levels are used up, Up to 6 × constitution: The wielder will awaken it, which takes a full turn. that character can use spellfire. Once can feel the energy inside him or her. This strange creature can sense life used, the balhiir is destroyed and the The wielder’s eyes begin to glow. A forms and magical energy up to 10” character must make a system shock touch by any creature or static magic away, even through solid rock. It roll or die. device or spell effect causes 1d6 spell always moves toward the greatest con- levels to be released at it. Every 24 centration of magic near it. Once in con- Spellfire hours, a Constitution check must be tact with the source of magic, it absorbs made; failure results in the wielder suf- No sage in the Realms, not even spell energy using the spellfire rules fering 1d6 hit points of damage, which Elminster, knows the origins or com- (see below) as if it had a constitution of release 1 spell level of spellfire. plete powers and limitations of 18. However, it does not use the energy Up to 7 × constitution: The wielder’s spellfire. What is set down in this like a spellfire wielder. Instead, one skin tingles, the eyes glow brightly. A record, is what they do know. spell level will sustain an active balhiir touch causes 2d6 spell levels to be Spellfire is the ability to absorb raw, for one day. It does not suffer damage released. Every hour, a Constitution chaotic, magical energy. Magic is from holding more than five times its check must be made; failure results in thought to be the control, shaping and constitution, but does shed those extra the wielder suffering 1d6 hit points of transferring energy from the Positive spell levels as radiant energy (light and damage, which release 1 spell level of Material Plane on the Prime Material heat) at the rates specified. spellfire. Plane. Spellfire collects the energy from It can only “attack” once per round to Up to 8 × constitution: The wielder’s almost any source and stores it in the actively drain magic. However, it can skin has a slight glow, the eyes shine person’s body. At will, the person can passively drain magic from many brightly enough to be seen at a distance release this energy in a variety of sources at once. Any spell or magical in bright sunlight. The wielder can feel forms. If no control is attempted, it is effect that is active within 10’ of it is a destructive burning inside. A touch released as raw chaotic energy of tre- absorbed. For example, a mage fires a causes 3d6 spell levels to be released. mendously destructive potential. magic missile at an opponent. If a Every turn a Constitution check must The amount of spellfire a person can balhiir is within 10’ of the path of the be made; failure results in the wielder handle is determined by the person’s missile, it is absorbed into the creature. suffering 1d6 hit points of damage, Constitution. Spellfire is measured in However, a wand lying more than 10' which release 1 spell level of spellfire. spell levels, since that is the form of from the balhiir is safe, unless the Up to 9 × constitution: The wielder’s energy most likely to be absorbed. In balhiir “attacks” it. entire body glows, the eyes are like the case of magic items, some transla- There are only two known ways to torch lamps. The wielder is in pain, and tions can be made. Each plus of a weap- destroy a balhiir. Its spell absorbing must save vs. paralyzation to perform on is one spell level. Each special ability energy must be overloaded, just like the any action except randomly releasing is one spell level, unless the DM judges spellfire ability. This usually takes sev- great quantities of spellfire. A touch eral mages of high level casting spells it to be of unusual potency, in which causes 4d6 spell levels to be released.

49 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Every round a Constitution check must character wants to hurl; the minimum these to any spectator who survived. be made; failure results in the wielder is one level, the maximum his total Con- Spellfire is always limited by line of suffering 1d6 hit points of damage, stitution points expressed as levels. sight (at least until the obstruction is which release 1 spell level of spellfire. Only one bolt per round is allowed, and destroyed), but not by distance. A to-hit Up to 10 × constitution: The wield- it must be hurled in a straight line. Any roll is needed to strike anything more er’s body glows brightly and radiates magic item touched is absorbed, wheth- than 1” away that is taking defensive heat from up to 3’ away. The pain is er or not the wielder wishes it to be. action. Immobile objects are automati- great enough that a save vs. paralyza- cally hit. Second Level tion at -2 is needed to perform any The character can control how many Enchanted creatures, or those that action. Every segment a Constitution spell levels of spellfire he or she is hurl- were created or sustained by magic, do check must be made; failure results in ing as destructive bolts. The bolt can be not get a saving throw against spellfire. the wielder suffering 1d6 hit points of These creatures must always take full bent every which way if desired. Other- damage, which release 1 spell level of wise, it is the same as the first-level abil- damage. Undead that drain life energy spellfire. ity. Magic items are only absorbed (or any Negative Material Plane crea- The wielder of spellfire can release when using spellfire or when the ture) save at +2, unless, like the lich, up to his or her Constitution in spell spellfire wielder wills it. they are created by or sustained with levels. Shandril can release 14 spell magic. levels of spellfire per round. Spellfire Third Level Certain spells, magic items and spell- effects that would use less than a spell Two blasts per round, one from each like effects are immune to spellfire. The level (for example, lighting Elminster’s hand, can be hurled, or one a round can exact reasons for this is not known, but pipe) are rounded up to a full spell level. be emitted from any other part of the there is conjecture. Anything that Each spell level contains enough energy body. Even with multiple blasts, the absorbs magical energy without storing to do 1d6 points of damage when maximum number of spell levels of it would also absorb spellfire. It would directed as destructive blasts. The spellfire a character can discharge in a also be immune to absorption by recipient does get to save vs. spells to round is equal to the player’s Constitu- spellfire. Known examples: Ring of spell take only half damage. When used for tion. The character can react with turning, rod of cancellation, wand of healing, each spell level heals 2 hit spellfire, although with only one blast negation (if the beam hits the spellfire), points. that round, within five segments, sphere of annihilation, dispel magic (if Control over spellfire comes with minus the dexterity reaction adjust- cast in the same segment as spellfire is experience, just like for other character ment. For example, a character with a used). classes. For the purposes of game play, dexterity of 17 has a +2 reaction Items or spells that store magical or the wielder of spellfire becomes a split- adjustment and can react with spellfire life energy for future use, will absorb class character. Actions using the origi- in just 3 segments. spellfire, but can also be absorbed by nal character class abilities accumulate Fourth Level the spellfire wielder, as the energy is experience points for that class; adven- Effects using less than one spell level still available. Known examples: Ring of turing using spellfire accumulates expe- are possible, although a full spell level is spell storing, certain ioun stones. rience points for its control. Experience still deducted from the total. For exam- Similarly, spells or items that create points for treasure cannot add to ple, lighting a candle takes less than one barriers to all magic are immune to spellfire ability. The spellfire levels only spell level. destruction by spellfire. However, they determine control over that ability. can be absorbed. Known examples: They do not affect a character’s hit Fifth Level Scroll of protection from magic, wall of points, to hit with weapons, saving The spellfire wielder now has enough force, anti-magic shell. throws or any other game function. control to heal another person if he or Use the magic-user experience point she is in flesh-to-flesh contact. Up to table to determine level of spellfire abil- three blasts can be delivered per round, ity. Below is the table showing how one from each hand and one from the much control the character has for eyes. The total spell levels used in a each level. given round is still limited by the char- acter’s Constitution. First Level The character is only able to use Any further levels of ability or refine- destructive blasts and cannot control ments of power are not known at the the amount of spellfire very well. Add time of this writing. No spellfire wielder 1d4 -2 to the number of spell levels the has ever shown abilities other than

50 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Narm Tamaraith another. Algarzel was in flight over the mage had ever challenged him. Those river when Kluennh Tzarr flung a fire- of real power saw him as a posturing ARMOR CLASS: 10 ball at him. Algarzel flew out of the way, know-nothing, with no spells worth MOVE: 12” but a ferry making the river crossing seizing. Those of lesser power feared Hit Points: 9 could not. Nearly all on board, includ- always that he must have something up NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 ing Hargun and Fyth, were killed. his sleeve, he seemed so confident and DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or Hargun’s last action in life was to fling fearless. His confidence killed him, and spell his 11-year-old son into the river. Those nearly took Narm as well. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil watching the duel pulled him out of the He saw the abandonment of the Elven SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil water and took him ashore, but then Court and Myth Drannor as his chance MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard left him to find his own way in the city. to become a great mage. He was going SIZE: M In the years that followed, Narm to walk right in and seize all the magic ALIGNMENT: Lawful Neutral learned all he could of the mages that that he, and many others, thought was PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil dueled and killed his parents. He deter- just lying around in the ruins. A perfect Third-Level Human Magic-User mined their names and native lands. solution for a lazy wizard. S:10 I:16 W:12 D:14 C:13 CH:11 Algarzel has not been seen since that On the long journey to Myth Drannor, duel. Narm has heard conflicting the pair stopped at the Rising Moon in Narm is young man of 22 winters, reports that he died in the duel, and in Deepingdale. Narm caught the eye of handsome even in drab clothing. He is that he escaped to another plane, never Shandril, a servant then, whom he dark-haired and slim, with a serious to return. thought quite pretty. Unable to escape face. His dark brown eyes reveal a Kluennh Tzarr left for his Calishite from the weary lectures of his master lighter side not visible on his face. At citadel in triumph. Narm’s informants Mirimmar, nothing else came of it. times they can twinkle merrily as if say that he is served by dragons and Deep in the woods of the Elven Court, sharing a secret joke. Due to his tute- keeps many slaves. Narm has vowed to just outside of Myth Drannor, the hap- lage under Elminster, he is calm under be his death some day, or if another gets less duo stumbled into a pair of elves. fire. However, any threat to his beloved their first, to spit upon his grave. Representatives of the Knights of Myth wife Shandril will bring forth a fiery Even at the tender age of 11, he knew Drannor, they were keeping out all passion. he would need powerful magic to intruders and warning innocent trav- He was born in the city of Silvery- defeat the foreign arch-mage. Just elers that the city was infested with moon in the North, of Hargun Tama- another homeless urchin, in a city devils. Mirimmar assumed that they raith, called “The Tall,” and Fythuera. where there are dozens like him on eve- were lying to protect their own inter- He never learned his mother’s last ry street, Narm set out to gain an ests and doubled back with Narm to name. Narm suspects that his father apprenticeship with a mage, any mage. approach the ruins from another angle. was a ranger, before he fell ill with the Pestering every mage who passed near- This was no sooner done then they shaking fever. Hargun dealt in weapons ly got him turned into a toad or burnt to were set upon by bone devils that and smith work. Fyth, to her husband ashes several times. instantly slew Mirimmar. and child, played the harp and traded Finally, at when Narm was 13, a mage While toying with Narm for the sport as Hargun’s equal. They had been wed said yes. Mirimmar turned out to be a of it, the bone devils attracted the atten- for some time before Narm’s birth. He pompous, sour man. His overwhelming tion of a pair of the Knights of Myth remembers them as good people. pride made him weak. He never Drannor, Lanseril and Illistyl. They res- Elminster suspects that they may have worked to strengthen his art where he cued him and brought him to Shadow- been members of the mysterious group lacked spells or technique. He couldn’t, dale to heal. known only as the Harpers. or wouldn’t, see his weaknesses. None- Nightmares of taunting devils drove While Narm was still a babe, his par- theless, knowing nothing, Narm was Narm to seek Myth Drannor once again ents journeyed to Triboar and thence to able to learn a lot from him. Mirimmar on his own. He hoped to be able to con- Waterdeep. They traveled a great deal, had a temper and little patience. He was front his fears so he could lead a normal up and down the northern Sword one of the laziest men Narm had ever life without looking over his shoulder Coast, moving with the trade. They are met, so he needed an apprentice to do for non-existent devils. Narm watched dead now. While in Baldur’s Gate, they all the drudge work. From this Narm as The Shadowsil took Shandril captive. became the innocent victims of a wiz- learned much of spell components and Recalling her from the inn, he quickly ards duel. their preparation. convinced the Knights of Myth Dran- On the river bank, Algarzel Halfcloak Mirimmar disliked conflict, so he nev- nor that she needed rescuing. and the Calishite arch-mage Kluennh er fought other mages to gain their A group of the Knights, Elminster, Tzarr strove by art to destroy one spells. He was shining proud that no and Narm invaded the dracolich

51 MAJOR CHARACTERS Shadowdale. Their honeymoon was short but sweet. The two decided to leave the peaceful community to seek safety through anonymity in the Realms. While in Shadowdale, too many outside factions tried to capture or kill them, not the least of which was the Cult of the Dragon. They could not endanger their friends by remaining in the dale any longer. They decided to travel to the faraway city of Silverymoon where none would know them. The couple accepted the protection of the Harpers, through their agent Storm Silverhand, for the journey. Shandril wanted to pass through Highmoon to say goodbye to Gorstag and her other friends at the Rising Moon inn. After a series of adventures, they found themselves on the way to Cormyr with Delg, a dwarf- ish warrior and former companion of Shandril’s. From there they passed from knowledge of most of the groups seeking to control Shandril and her spellfire ability. Narm does not have any single place he considers to be home. At best, Baldur’s Gate would be the most famil- iar city to him, seeing as he spent over 10 years there as a youth. However, there is nothing in the city for him now. His master Mirimmar is dead. All of that mage’s possessions were either sold to make the journey to Myth Drannor, or disappeared when he was killed there. Narm and Shandril are always met together, unless someone or something has forced them apart. Occasionally they are found in the company of pow- erful friends, such as Elminster or the Knights of Myth Drannor. They will work together as a team to overcome Rauglothgar’s cavern home. In the the Cult of the Dragon under the lower any obstacle that might stand in their ensuing battle, Narm and Shandril Tranquil, Narm and Shandril journeyed way. Each would do anything to safe- were trapped behind fallen rubble for to Shadowdale with Elminster and the guard the other. Standing practice for quite some time. Human nature being Knights of Myth Drannor. There Elmin- the two is to have Narm keep Shandril what it is, they emerged quite smitten ster personally saw to their education safely filled with spellfire energy by with each other. in the use of spells and spellfire. Narm casting spells at her every few days, or It was at this time that spellfire was did not so much learn to cast new spells as needed. awakened in Shandril. Narm had to from Elminster, as how to learn the art. At this point in his career, Narm does watch, a helpless spectator, as Shandril The old sage taught him to discipline not carry any magic items, and only has fought Rauglothgar and a horde of himself for both the learning and cast- a dagger for defense. Shandril would dragon cultists, slaying them all. ing of spells. merely absorb magic items, and he was After the defeat of Rauglothgar and Narm and Shandril were married in never trained to use warrior’s gear.

52 MAJOR CHARACTERS

Wulfgar reacting after the fact to the scimitars’ are tuned perfectly to Wulfgar alone, deft cuts and thrusts and began recog- designed especially to match his great ARMOR CLASS: 5 nizing his own vulnerable areas and size and strength. In the hands of MOVE: 15” anticipating the next attack. another, Aegis-fang is only +3, loses its Hit Points: 74 “The drow knew that his style of special throwing bonuses, and does not NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 offense would not be the most effective score double-damage dice. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type mode for Wulfgar The barbarian could A powerful weapon still, but devas- (+7) use his unrivalled strength more effec- tating in the hands of the young barbar- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil tively than deceptive feints and twists. ian. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Wulfgar’s people were naturally aggres- But there is much more to this man MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard sive fighters, and striking came more than physical prowess. Intelligent and SIZE: M (6’11”) easily to them than parrying. The observant, Wulfgar has learned to think ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good mighty barbarian could fell a giant with before he speaks or acts, measuring PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil a single, well-placed blow. each action against its probable conse- Sixth-Level Barbarian Fighter “All that he had to learn was quences. Unlike his brutal kin, he is S:19( +3 +7) I:15 W:14 D:16 C:18 CH:15 patience.” introspective, searching his own heart — from The Crystal Shard and conscience for the true values of Wulfgar, son of Beornegar, has been the world. In this, too, Wulfgar looks to blessed with the raw potential to Wulfgar was quick to see the advan- Drizzt as his guiding force. become the complete hero. Agile and tages of the drow’s lessons and in the tough, and possessing strength beyond short span of their training, he became ”Wulfgar sat a moment longer in com- the range of normal men — to match his a multidimensional warrior. templation. The drow lived a hard and great size. Nearly 7’ tall and fully 350 In battle, he wears no armor, but his materially empty existence, yet he was pounds — Wulfgar has packed more heavy layers of wolf-skin furs serve as richer than any man Wulfgar had ever experience into his young 18 years than well as studded leather (AC 7). He can known. Drizzt had clung to his princi- most fighters see in their entire take a hit, even from a giant, and with ples against overwhelming circum- careers. his awesome strength, his opponents stances, leaving the familiar world of He has experienced the best of both usually don’t last long enough for a sec- his own people by choice to remain in a schools of fighting. Growing up on the ond strike. And if he were not powerful world where he would never be accept- tundra among the barbarians of Ice- enough on his own, he wields Aegis- ed or appreciated. wind Dale taught him ferocity in battle, fang, possibly the mightiest weapon to “He looked at the departing elf, now a an offensive style designed to simply be forged in the modern day Realms, a mere shadow in the gloom. ’Perhaps we blast through whatever defenses his throwback to the times when the great- two are not so different,’ he mumbled opponents presented. And then he est dwarven smithies crafted weapons under his breath.” learned the more subtle skills of true for the gods themselves. An offspring — from The Crystal Shard swordsmanship under the tutelage of of the Hammer of Thunderbolts, Drizzt Do’Urden. Drizzt was rough on Bruenor crafted Aegis-fang especially A wide world lays open to Wulfgar the young warrior, slapping Wulfgar for Wulfgar. So wonderful was the now, and he is determined to see it. down with the flat of his weapons and result, an effort of the dwarfs consider- From the spirited Catti-brie he has showing him with yet another sting able skill and his deep love for the boy, viewed, for the first time, the true every weakness in his fighting style. that Bruenor knew he had reached the worth of a woman, and from Bruenor And to the young Wulfgar, whose intel- ultimate achievement of his trade, and and Drizzt he learned to see his ene- ligence was sufficient to overcome the would never again fire up a forge. mies as people, as individuals whose anger of his wounded pride, the lessons The war hammer is fully +5 and lives extend beyond the immediacy of were effective. scores double-damage dice (2d4 + 2, the battlefield. 2d4) on a hit, gaining full “to hit” and And Wulfgar understands that there “By the middle of the second week, damage bonuses, including Wulfgar’s is much more for him to learn, and that Wulfgar was in complete control of (his Strength bonus, even when thrown! each new experience brings him closer war hammer), twisting its handle and Furthermore, Aegis-fang unerringly to finding the truth about himself, and head deftly to block against the two reappears in Wulfgar’s hand (and only the meaning of his life. whirring scimitars, and responding in Wulfgar’s hand) whenever he desires These revelations would be extraor- with cautiously measured thrusts of his it, even if it has to disappear from some- dinary to a person from the everyday own. Drizzt could see the subtle change one else’s hand to get there. civilized world in the Forgotten Realms, taking place as the barbarian stopped The war hammer’s magic and power but to a youth bred amidst the savagery

53 MAJOR CHARACTERS Still, the young Wulfgar fared well. Tall and straight, he was well-suited for a society strictly structured in a pecking order according to strength. By the time he had reached adolescence, he had achieved the honorable position of Heafstaag’s standard bearer, and many looking upon him — he was already larger than most of the men — envisioned him as a future leader of their people. Then came the first great battle of Icewind Dale, when all the barbarian tribes united and invaded Ten-Towns. In the fierce battle of Bryn Shander, Wulfgar was cut down by the dwarf, Bruenor. But he was not killed, and when the battle had ended — and the barbarians had been routed — Bruenor found the boy and, seeing some special glimmer in his eye that did not reflect the normal savagery of a barbarian, spared his life, in exchange for five years of servitude in the dwarven mines. It was the turning point in his life, the one act that allowed the young man to fully find the road to his potential. Here, he met Catti-brie and saw the new dimensions of a woman. Here, he met Drizzt Do’Urden and found a hero for those principles so long sublimated under the limitations of his savage tribe. And here, he came to know Bruenor, so ferocious with his deadly ax, yet preferring the harmony of peaceful coexistence.

“The work paid dividends physically as well. Chopping stone and pounding metal had corded the barbarians mus- cles, redefining the gangly frame of his of the tundra barbarians, they are even the great and cruel King Heafstaag, a youth into a hardened girth of unri- more incredible. battle-scarred veteran of incredible valled strength. And he possessed great Wulfgar was born the son of Beorne- strength. Yet the young Wulfgar sensed stamina, for the tempo of the tireless gar into the Tribe of the Elk, one of the that his father, though obedient to his dwarves had strengthened his heart most powerful tribes which followed rank and position, did not care for the and stretched his lungs to new limits. the caribou migration along the length king. Beornegar was a dreamer and “Wulfgar bit his lip in shame as he of Icewind Dale. Living on a thin edge of stubbornly believed that there must be remembered his first conscious subsistence, they were a warlike peo- a better way for his people to live. thought after the Battle of Bryn Shan- ple, and so totally male-dominated that When Wulfgar was still a boy, Beorne- der He had vowed to pay Bruenor back many of the women didn’t even have gar went off on a quest that could bring in blood as soon as he had fulfilled the names. him the power and the wealth to find a terms of his indenture. He understood Wulfgar’s father was in high standing new road for his people. now, to his own amazement, that he among the tribe, a personal advisor to But he never returned. had become a better man under the

54 MAJOR CHARACTERS tutelage of Bruenor Battlehammer, and there, on the open road and in the wide than most fighters will ever know. And the mere thought of raising a weapon world. Catti-brie understood it even someone facing one of these warriors against the dwarf sickened him.” better than he, and did not bid him to in battle understands that he is fighting — from The Crystal Shard stay. a survivor of that brutal existence, one By the fates, he would return to her of the strong members of the tribe who It was indeed the true Wulfgar who when his journey had ended. has never known deterred from the emerged from those years of servitude. strict codes of discipline that rule bar- He understood the visions of his father On the Barbarians barian life and determine their surviv- for the first time in his life, and even ful- al. Many a soldier has cursed the meals There is a special connotation accom- filled Beornegar’s unfinished quest, the that softened his belly and slowed his panying the word “barbarian” that slaying of the dragon, Icingdeath. sword arm in the last breaths of his life strikes a chord of terror across all the Then he returned to his people, the before the club or war hammer of a Realms. Barbarian raids are normally dragon’s horns a trophy sufficient to hardened barbarian crushed him. more devastating than orc attack, and allow him to challenge for the throne. just as savage. Trained soldiers, vet- And when he had killed Heafstaag, he Roleplaying Tips erans of a hundred fights, quiver at the laid a new road for the barbarians of approach of a barbarian horde. While Wulfgar has widened his vision Icewind Dale, even rallying them And yet, physically, a barbarian is a of the world to include the principles behind the people of Ten-Towns against fighter plain and simple, no more train- and conscience not common among his the invading goblin army of the evil ed (even less, formally) and no more people, he is still young, and still bound Akar Kessell, and then forging a new skilled, and typically wielding inferior by a code of honor and pride. Insults alliance on the tundra, in which all the weapons and armor. So why does the may get offenders killed, honorably, of people of Icewind Dale, barbarian and sweat bead on the foreheads of the course, though in most cases, Wulfgar Ten-Towner alike, united against their fighters of the civilized world at the would temper his rage enough to common foe, the ever-encroaching wil- mere mention of the word “barbarian?” accept an apology. derness of the savage frontier. Because the mind-set of a barbarian He is a champion of the underdog, a But after the dust of the battle had transcends the boundaries of a normal fearless fighter, and a loyal friend. His settled, and the new alliance forged, fighter. Fanatical servants of Tempus, vein of sympathy runs deep, and he will Wulfgar abdicated his new position as or some other god of battle, barbarians try to relieve suffering wherever he barbarian king, giving over the throne honestly do not fear death in battle, finds it, at any personal cost. to an old friend of his father’s, a man of believing it a service to their god that On a large scale, he is a charismatic similar conscience. Wulfgar would will ensure them a place of honor in the and dominating young man (remember have made a great king, even at that land of their final reward. he altered the very way of life for the tender age, but his heart was for the And in most cases, the barbarian has peoples of Icewind Dale), but in one-to- road. He wanted to learn, to grow, to little to lose. Barbarian life, except for one encounters, Wulfgar remains a bit see everything that his existence in Ice- short stretches of plunder, is materially unsure of himself and is easily embar- wind Dale had denied him. And so he barren and knows no comforts. They rassed, which sometimes leads him to took up with Drizzt and Bruenor, and are a people existing with one aspira- anger — bridled rage, but rage nonethe- later was joined by Regis, on their road tion: glory in battle. less. south in search of Mithril Hall. Furthermore, the hard existence of a But he is young, and in his drive to Not without reservations, for he left tribesmen weeds out the weakest early behind the one thing in the dale that find his truest self, he will learn. He will in their lives. Typically, a barbarian grow wiser and stronger. still intrigued him, and always would — fighter will have gained more experi- A chilling thought for would-be ene- Catti-brie. ence by the time of his 20th birthday mies! But he had a destiny to fulfill, out

55 MINOR CHARACTERS

Alustriel She might use her spells to enhance long to understand how to create this the atmosphere at an important meet- vision of beauty around her. ARMOR CLASS: -2 ing by creating Mordenkainen’s magnif- She began adventuring at an early MOVE: 12” icent mansion, or even to avoid an age, perfecting her art as a wizard. Her Hit Points: 44 embarrassing situation by teleporting masters marvelled at her incredible NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 in someone who would have arrived pace. Soon she was beyond them, DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or late. But never would Alustriel use her understanding the very fabric of spells spell magic to gain an unfair advantage in a and able to conjure the magical powers SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use diplomatic situation. for all of her needs. While most wizards SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Her favorite spell is shape change, bend the powers to gain their ends, MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard and she views it as an educational expe- Alustriel seemed more to work as an SIZE: M (5’11”) rience in seeing the world from many extension of the forces, as though she ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good different perspectives. She also likes had formed a symbiotic relationship PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil non-destructive evocations such as with the natural forces of the universe. 22nd-Level Human Magic User material, spells of learning such as leg- And as she began her adventuring S:11 I:18 W:17 D:16 C:13 CH:17 end lore, and locomotion spells like tele- career early, Alustriel ended it early, port without error and, another determined to carve out a settled piece Tall and slender, and bending with the favorite, fly. Her day-to-day spells will of utopia in the savage wilderness. Now grace of a willow in the spring breeze, typically reflect a blend of these types, Silverymoon, a city of 26,000, reflects Alustriel, the high lady of Silverymoon, and rarely, if ever, contain an offensive her vision. Here the pen truly is mighti- might be the most impressive and beau- spell, reflecting Alustriel’s belief that er than the sword, here the sculptor’s tiful leader in all the Northland. Men she has enough magic-user bodyguards hammer outweighs the war hammer, have been known to fall in love with her hovering about her to protect her. and spells of creation are valued above in a single glance, bards won’t write (Though, in truth, she uses her tele- those of destruction. All who come in about her for fear that their words, ports and the like primarily to get away puruit of knowledge and the arts are however sweet, would not do her jus- from those very same bodyguards.) welcomed, and it is not uncommon to tice. Most of the magical items that she has see an elf and a dwarf walking side by It is more than Alustriel’s physical acquired, and the few she has fabri- side discussing things far removed beauty that awes them all. In truth, she cated, she has given away, figuring that from conflict. is beautiful, silver-haired and ever- others could use them more than she. And in the savage North, only a wom- young, and with a glowing face and She does retain bracers of defense AC 2 an as gentle, kindly, and inspiring as eyes that sparkle like the sun dances on (in the form of golden bracelets), a ring Alustriel could hold this dream togeth- the a clear river, but there are so many of protection +2, a wand of illumina- er. more dimensions to this woman. Keen- tion, an amulet of proof against detec- Roleplaying tips: Unlike Pier- ly bright and wise, she is one of the tion and location, and a cloak and boots geiron, who took a different road to a most powerful wizards in all the For- of elvenkind. similar end, Alustriel seems not at all gotten Realms, though she rarely dis- She is indeed an impressive lady, and reserved around friends or strangers. plays her powers openly. She rules was born into a family of impressive She is open and unsuspicious (for, in Silverymoon, the largest city in the women. Her sisters include The Simbul light of the tenets of her city, to be any- realms north of Waterdeep and isn’t of Aglarond; Storm Silverhand, a bard thing else would make her a hypocrite) anyone’s puppet or figurehead, to be of high renown; Dove Falconhand, an and willing, and wanting, to forgive sure — none would make that mistaken equally impressive ranger; and Sylune, most indiscretions. assumption more than once! the witch of Shadowdale, who was But Alustriel is also a legislator and, Her reign is legitimate, her power killed in the Year of the Worm when she when necessary, a shrewd bargainer. well- earned, and her judgment fair and broke her staff of the magi in a retribu- The responsibility of thousands falls consistent. She is a peacemaker to the tive strike against an ancient huge red squarely upon her shoulders, and end, seeking a harmony of the goodly dragon. (The dragon was killed as well.) though she accepts the burden, and is races so that they may fully dominate Certainly Alustriel, the second-born more than able to execute the office, the wild lands of the North. Her magical of the group, stands tall in their midst, her spirit seems more that of a child, restraint is legendary, using her spells taking a back seat to none of them. running free without worry through only for personal reasons such as tele- From her earliest days, she was a vision- grassy fields. porting to her favorite grove on a ary, seeing the world in her own image But the promise of Silverymoon is more moonlit night, and even then humbly of utopia. With her intelligence and than ample reward for the labors of her and without show. empathetic prowess, it didn’t take her duties, and she has no complaints—

56 MINOR CHARACTERS

Except on those very rare occasions bag of tricks and a wand of lightning. first trip outside of Thay, the appren- when she is forced to go against every- He also has bracers of AC6, and his tice to the wizard guardian of a trade thing she believes, such as the time she robes are actually a cloak of protection caravan. He has been plying the trade- had to refuse a drow elf entry into +1. If forced to fight hand-to-hand, he ways of the Inner Sea, and avoiding his Silverymoon because of the political fights with a dagger filigreed with sil- family, ever since. implications. Her lament was quite evi- ver. Alzegund’s intent in being chummy in dent in her apology to that drow, Drizzt Personality: Alzegund is a member the taverns with everyone who will Do’Urden, and it could be that she was of the School of Evocation, and special- drink with him is principally to draw speaking more to her own conscience izes in fire magics. Because he does so out his new-found companions and get than to Drizzt when she said: much traveling and guarding, he has information from them, making them not climbed as high in his profession as think he is a harmless toss-pot who “All that I ask you to understand is his age would indicate, but he seems to loves the Red Wizards no more than that, as leader of my city, I am forced at enjoy his work. Indeed, while his guard most of their neighbors. Very few high- times to act for the overall good, what- maintains a tight-lipped and dour ranking officials are taken in by this ever the cost to an individual.” watch over him, he is continually buy- demeanor, but he can often get vital — Alustriel ing drinks for other travelers and information from lower-ranking per- from Streams of Silver exchanging stories, some of them at the sons, and sometimes uses his magics (he expense of his masters, the Red Wiz- is a proficient alchemist) to do favors Alzegund the Trader ards. for them, for which he then claims a Motivations: Alzegund also spies on reward by forcing information from his ARMOR CLASS: 4 the military strength of Cormyr and of “friends” or even having them steal MOVE: 12” Zhentil Keep. Like all Red Wizards, his things for him. Hit Points: 50 main loyalty is to himself, and he seeks Other notes: When dealing with NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 to learn as much as he can to make him- Alzegund, a character should be sure to DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d4 self useful to the Red Wizards. check his neck when leaving, for fear SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil However, he is not working so much the Thayvian has managed to get his SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil to strengthen the Red Wizards as he is head from him as “surety.” Alzegund MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil to strengthen his own position on the takes his role as trader and caravan SIZE: M Inner Sea. At his age, he realizes that he master very seriously. ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil will probably never become a master of His route takes him from Suzail in PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil a school or a zulkir, so he intends to do Cormyr to Selgaunt in Sembia, thence 10th-Level Human Magic-User as well as he can and retire to some non- to Procampur across the Dragon Reach S:12 I:16 W:15 D:15 C:17 CH:13 Thayvian area, where he can create his and then along the coast to Telflamm, own power base. where he meets his contacts and Commonly remembered spells: Background notes: Alzegund was arranges for the next trip. He often • First-level — Affect normal fires, born into the noble clan of Agneh in makes side trips to Hillsfar, Turmish, burning hands, detect magic, melt. Thay. He had risen to the second level the Pirate Isles, Altumbel, and West- • Second-level — ESP, flaming of accomplishment as a magic-user gate. A trading trip takes from one to sphere. when an intra-family feud resulted in three years, depending on how many • Third-level — Fireball, flame the death of his parents and most of his stops he makes and the extent of trade arrow. siblings. and materials necessary to take back to • Fourth-level — Fire charm, fire Alzegund was, in fact, studying under Thay. shield, fire trap. an uncle who was not involved on During troubled times, such as when • Fifth-level — Conjure fire elemen- either side of the feud. By keeping to his Zhentil Keep is being particularly tal. studies and out of family discussions, aggressive, he enlists extra aid in con- Physical description: Alzegund is a he managed to stay alive. He made his voying his goods. Since these goods human male Red Wizard of Thay; he is an peace with his father’s murderers and often include slaves, he is very careful old, bald, war-scarred necromancer who continued his studies. about who he is hiring. openly wears robes marked on the breast Five years later, as a successful His men-at-arms are all human males. and back with a red flame badge, and seventh-level magic-user, he managed Their membership changes over the travels the trade routes with six grim to successfully use charm monster on a years, but now consists of the sergeant, men-at-arms, guarding those caravans powerful monster, and unleashed it in who is a sixth-level fighter, three the Red Wizards want kept safe. his father’s enemy’s bedroom. fourth-level fighters who have been Equipment: Alzegund has a magical The next day he was on his way on his with Alzegund for a couple of years,

57 MINOR CHARACTERS and two second-level sword appren- Experience points: 65,000. child (name unrecorded). tices who are on their first trip with Money: 45,000 gp. Allies: Elminster, Harpers, Randall him. Combat: Mourngrym leads any bat- Morn, Knights of Myth Drannor. Characters running into Alzegund tle he fights. He feels it his duty to bear Patron deity: Tymora. can find him a fund of information, a the brunt of the assault, inspire his Home: The Tower of Ashaba, Sha- good target for a robbery (he usually comrades to greater valor, and protect dowdale. carries about 20,000 gp in coins, gems, those unable to defend themselves. He Personal history: He began as a and a couple items of jewelry), or a attacks with the most powerful sword young noble of Waterdeep and was a potential patron. Characters can get available, preferably his own broad youthful ally of the Harpers. He flimflammed or supported by Alze- sword. He always carries a knife that admired Khelben “Blackstaff” Arunsun, gund. And, of course, Alzegund is one can transform on command into a short the arch-wizard. Mourngrym jumped way of getting to see the mysterious sword. at Khelben’s offer to join Doust Sul- land of Thay, though this could involve Mourngrym is dominated by concern wood, lord of Shadowdale. Mourngrym getting there in a slave coffle. for his wife. If she is in the same battle, was an enthusiastic member of Black- Due to his alignment, Alzegund will he battles to a protective position in staff’s adventuring band as they fur- live up to the letter of any agreement he front of her. If she is directly attacked, thered the cause of good in the makes with characters, but will try to he will ignore the rest of the battle in Dragonreach area. Mourngrym served weasel out of any contract by using the his effort to get to her. If Shaerl is ably in many small skirmishes and contract against the characters. wounded severely and falls uncon- adventures and was able to amass a siz- scious, Mourngrym will enter a ber- able fortune. The relationship was bro- Mourngrm serker rage centered on whoever ken when Blackstaff and the others harmed her. Holding Shaerl hostage decided to renounce their holdings and Amcathra, Lord of will not work; even if she is threatened return to full-time adventuring as the Shadowdale with immediate death, Mourngrym will “Knights of Myth Drannor.” Mourn- attempt a rescue rather than give in to grym wanted to join, but Blackstaff per- ARMOR CLASS: 1(9) her captor. suaded him to assume sovereignty over MOVE: 12” Appearance: Mourngrym is a large, Shadowdale. Hit Points: 32 middle-aged man with dark brown hair, As a ruler, Mourngrym has proven to NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 a hearty figure still blessed with the be a shrewd, cautious, and diplomatic DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type muscles he developed during his years lord of authority and foresight. He has SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil of battle. His hair is well-trimmed. He is periodically returned to the field of bat- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil always clean. tle, such as the time he aided Randall MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Personality: Mourngrym likes to Morn of Daggerdale in resisting Zhentil SIZE: M (6’4”) think he is benevolent and protective. Keep, or his frequent battles against ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good He believes in the obligations of the drow invasions from the subterranean PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil nobility and the strong to protect and realms. Sixth-Level Human Cavalier guide those weaker or in need of help. Mourngrym was surprised and S:15 I:13 W:9 D:11 C:14 CH:11 He knows what is right. If events sug- pleased when the new Cormyrian emis- gest he might be wrong, he subcon- sary proved to be the noblewoman Armor: Plate mail, ring of protection sciously denies it and rearranges things Shaerl Rowanmantle. They became +1. to support his belief in his infallibility. very friendly, then intimate, although Languages: Common, Elven, He does not consciously deny the truth, Mourngrym felt his duties kept him Dwarfish. but he will deny truth the chance to be from marrying. He was puzzled when Common skills: Armorer. heard. she insisted on joining him on his forays Possessions: Ring of protection +1 His opponents and few detractors in defense of Shadowdale. He felt this (always worn on right hand), broad hold him to be smothering, paternalis- was unseemly and dangerous for a sword +3 (2d4 + 3/1d6 +4), shield +1, tic, and condescending. woman of the court. When she knife (enchanted to transform into a In the past, Mourngrym was privately revealed that she was an extremely short sword on command). bothered by his beloved wife’s past. He competent thief and combatant, Weapons of proficiency: short rationalized it by believing that she Mourngrym was at a loss for words. He sword (1d6/1d8), broad sword (2d4/ stole only from evil people or monsters. was inwardly torn between his strong 1d6 +1), long sword (1d8/1d12), dagger In any event, he considers her retired, adherence to the law and his love for (1d4/1d3), lance (3d3/3d6, double if hence her past is irrelevant. Shaerl. He often rationalized his feel- mounted), mace (1d4 + 1/1d4 + 1). Relatives: Shaerl Amcathra (wife), ings in that it was all right for her to be

58 MINOR CHARACTERS a thief if her prey were Shadowdale’s +2 (1d4 + 2/1d4 + 1), silver dagger (1d4/ ing, full of pomp and luxury, and she enemies. Still, he grew distant as time 1d3), darts (8) (1d3/1d2), short sword became utterly bored with it all. There passed. (1d6/1d8). were very few socially accepted outlets He was shattered when, in the midst Weapons of proficiency: Short for adventuresome girls of her class. of a fierce battle against devils, Shaerl sword, dagger, dart. Frustration and a natural mischievious- died for him, but then the love in her Experience points: 36,000. ness turned her toward thievery. She sacrifce filled him with the power to Money: 45,000 gp. became a self-taught cat burglar. She seize victory. Later, Mourngrym discov- Combat: Shaerl prefers to avoid secretly practiced breaking into her ered that Shaerl had kept from him the combat. If possible, she will flee rather parents’ quarters and vaults, then secret that she was carrying his child. than fight. If her companions are moved on to break into other noble Mourngrym realized just how great a threatened, she fights with cunning houses as her skills and self-confidence fool he had been. He spared no effort or and skill. She usually remains in the grew. She never stole that much; she expense in seeking her resurrection. He rear, throwing darts and knives past or mostly collected souvenirs of her esca- was the first sight her reborn eyes between her allies. When adventuring, pades. looked upon. Their wedding was a she carries all her weapons. Even when Her nocturnal activities were eventu- grand affair. She soon bore him a child, she is at court, she is still a formidable ally detected. Unbeknownst to her, she and it looked like a happy ending was foe. She always wears her ring of pro- was observed and identified by two finally upon them. tection and carries her two daggers in captains of the city guard. They recog- Mourngrym has long been an ally of places where she can get at them within nized the problems that might result the Harpers, but it was only recently an eye’s blink. from a simple arrest and reported their revealed that he was in fact a Harper Appearance: Shaerl is an attractive, findings to Lord Thomdor. Thomdor himself. It is unknown when Mourn- patrician woman with a graceful body himself was loath to punish the enter- grym actually joined their ranks. that retains a firm muscle tone into her prising lass. He knew the problems As middle age and fatherhood took mid-30s. Her russet hair is bound at inherent in a scandal involving a noble hold, Mourngrym’s attitudes subtly shoulder length but actually reaches to family. He knew her, her family, and altered. His normal self-confident her hips. In court she favors simple especially the spirit that burned so benevolence has become smothering gowns with elaborate embroidery. fiercely within her. After deliberation, paternalism. When on an adventure or a nocturnal he summoned her to a secret, personal foray, she prefers loose, dark garments meeting; even her parents were Shaerl Llairhavenn and binds her hair into a tight club. unaware of it. Shaerl was immediately Personality: Shaerl is adventurous suspicious, but she knew she had no Rowanmantle and danger-seeking. She dislikes the choice but to accede to his request. She Amcathra mundane, unexciting life led by her was surprised at how long she had been parents and siblings. Although Shaerl under observation. She was even more ARMOR CLASS 6 upholds the obligations and duties of surprised when Thomdor made her an MOVE: 12” her station, she longs for her wild offer. He offered her the chance to do Hit Points: 31 youth and the adventuring life. something both meaningful and enter- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 She is fiercely protective of Mourn- taining. She was to go to Shadowdale as DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type grym and their child. If the child is an emissary of Cormyr and attempt to SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil threatened, she will remorselessly deal ally herself with Mourngrym, lord of SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil with the child’s captor in as painful a the dale. There she was to learn all she MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil way as possible. She acts as Mourn- could about both him and the dale, as SIZE: M(5’10”) grym’s bodyguard and discreetly deals well as spread Cormyrian views and ALIGNMENT: Lawful Neutral with threats to him. explain their interests in the Shadow- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Relatives: Mourngrym Amcathra dale area. Then she was to report back Sixth-Level Human Thief (husband), child (name unrecorded). to Lord Thomdor. The alternative he S:8 I:12 W:6 D:l5 C:11 CH:12 Allies: Lord Thomdor. offered was public exposure, disgrace, Patron deity: Mask. and imprisonment. Armor: None. Home: Tower of Ashaba, Shadow- She accepted, of course. Thomdor lat- Languages: Common, Thieves’ dale. er made a public request for her serv- Cant. Personal history: Shaerl was born ices, which she dutifully accepted. No Skills: Jeweler/lapidary. into a noble Llairhavenn family of one was ever aware of the earlier meet- Possessions: Ring of protection +3 Suzail, a city in the kingdom of Cormyr. ing. Her parents were a bit puzzled by (always worn on right hand), dagger She had a normal upper-class upbring- the sudden display of civic responsibili-

59 MINOR CHARACTERS

ty, but soon turned their attention to grym arranged her resurrection. The TER), knock, locate object. the current social calendar. two publicly declared their love for • Third-level — Clairvoyance, haste, Shaerl originally resented her mis- each other and were married soon protection from normal missiles. sion since it was not her own idea. She after. The first pregnancy was termi- • Fourth-level — Dispel illusion, found Mourngrym to be a heroic, char- nated by Shaerl’s death, but she was minor globe of invulnerability, ismatic figure, but she quietly blamed determined to try again. Shaerl recent- Rary’s mnemonic enhancer, him for her misfortune. As time pro- ly bore Mourngrym their first child, the remove curse. gressed, her feelings changed. Despite future lord of the dale. • Fifth-level — Dismissal, her inner misgivings, she took a liking Thomdor is well pleased with her. She feeblemind, sending, telekinesis. to the man. They became lovers. When is welcome anytime in Cormyr. Her par- • Sixth-level — Death spell, guards her mission was ostensibly completed, ents are still oblivious to her true activi- and wards, power word: silence she decided to stay in Shadowdale. ties. They are pleased that she is (see FR4, THE MAGISTER), project Shaerl found that Mourngrym’s for- member of the ruling nobility some- image. ays in the defense of his realm offered where and delighted that she has • Seventh-level — Khelben’s warding her a chance to indulge in the excite- played an important part in the life of whip (see FR4, THE MAGISTER), ment and danger she craved. She qui- the Cormyrian king, Azoun, since this limited wish, teleport without etly gathered suitable equipment for an reflects well on their own family’s sta- error. itinerant thief of her stature. When tus. • Eighth-level — Demand, mass Mourngrym set off on one of his forays, Motherhood made her take a hiatus charm, power word: blind. she followed at a distance. That night from thieving activities. Within the year • Ninth-level — Astral spell, Elmin- she appeared in camp and announced though, the old urges returned. Shaerl ster’s evasion (a spell learned from she was going with him. Mourngrym returned to practicing her more acro- the sage of Shadowdale and was reluctant to have his lady love join batic skills on the night-shrouded roof- described above under Elminster), him on adventures into the wild lands. tops of Shadowdale. She has also begun imprisonment, time stop. He was extremely surprised to discover to publicly display some of her skills. Blackstaff also has the spells catapult, that she was a well-trained thief and She has become a figure of admiration Detho’s delirium, and decastave in his combatant, though she had to knock for many daughters of the Shadowdale spellbooks, but rarely uses them except him to the ground twice before the idea court. in special circumstances. They can all set in that she could take care of her- be found in the description of Detho’s self. Khelben “Blackstaff” Libram in FR4, THE MAGISTER. Simi- Shaerl’s skills proved helpful in many larly, his spell dismind is in his books, as an adventure. She grew far more Arunsun of described in the FORGOTTEN skilled than she might have as a simple Waterdeep REALMS™ sourcebook. cat burglar. The danger of the quest Physical description: Khelben is a ARMOR CLASS: -3 gave her a fire she had not known. Even tall (6’), well-muscled, bearded human MOVE: 12” her love for Mourngrym gained in male, with a receding hairline, black Hit Points: 70 intensity. Mourngrym, on the other hair shot through with white, and a dis- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 hand, grew increasingly distant as she tinguished manner. He always carries DAMAGE/ATTACK: 2d6 + 2 gained experience. He grew cooler his trademark black staff, which is his SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use toward her; although he still loved her, staff of power. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil he wasn’t sure he liked her. Shaerl sadly Equipment: Khelben has bracers of MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil realized that she had lost him. When AC2, a ring of protection +3, a staff of SIZE: M (6’) she discovered that she was pregnant power, and a wand of banishment (see ALIGNMENT: Lawful Neutral with his child, she chose not to tell him. FR1, WATERDEEP AND THE NORTH, or PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil She still loved him, though she kept her FR4, THE MAGISTER). No doubt he has fire inside. The turning point came dur- 26th-Level Human Magic-User many other items, scrolls, and potions S:14 I:18 W:16 D:16 C:16 CH:15 ing a battle in the woodlands of Myth available, but these items are always Drannor. In a move that surprised with him. Commonly remembered spells everyone, Shaerl sacrificed herself in Among his possessions, Blackstaff has • First-level Burning hands, charm order to protect Mourngrym. — the Libram of Lathintel, which is person, detect magic, identify, She remembered little of what fol- described in FR4, THE MAGISTER. light, read magic. lowed except for vague images of a Personality: Khelben is often • Second-level Detect invisibility, mostly forgotten dream. When she — thought (untruly) to be humorless. His flying fist (see FR4, THE MAGIS- awoke, she discovered that Mourn- public persona is gravely wise, but not

60 MINOR CHARACTERS pompous. He likes to encourage young horsemanship, reading/writing, music. terms, this means he expects all able cit- magic-users, particularly those he Those who have seen the good king of izens of Cormyr to serve or support the thinks he can recruit into the Harpers. Cormyr report him to be a handsome large standing army established in the Motivations: Khelben is dedicated man, standing just under 6’ tall. He kingdom. Any adventuring parties of to furthering civilization and making maintains the regimens of exercise and four or more members based in Cor- the world safe for everyone. He is drill he adopted as a young cavalier and myr must be registered with the king always working to influence this or that is in excellent shape for a middle-aged and will likely have a set term of service incident or trend, looking years ahead. man. Azoun’s brown hair and beard are they must fulfill in the army each year. He is a forester and a painter, and has only now beginning to show hints of sil- Azoun recognizes the sacrifice his cit- trained many mages of note. ver. izens must make to support the state. Background notes: Khelben Arun- He is happily married, and his wife, Because of this, he is determined to sun has a long history on the Sword Filfaeril Selzair, is as strong-willed and make Cormyr the safest and most Coast. Now he is considered the most as cultured as her husband. Azoun and peaceful kingdom possible. Adventur- powerful and influential arch-mage of Filfaeril have two daughters, Alusair ers will encounter many facets of the Sword Coast and is one of the rulers and Tanalesta. Their only son, Foril, Azoun’s “peace policy” every day they of Waterdeep (though he does not died when he was only 2. The loss of his spend in Cormyr. admit this openly, most people in the only male heir remains a source of Azoun does not permit mercenaries North suspect it). great anguish for Azoun. or adventurers free rein in the city He is allied to the Harpers, and instru- Azoun’s nickname — “The Purple when they are not under binding con- mental in keeping the Lords Alliance (of Dragon” — is derived from his battle tract to a local merchant or nobleman. Silverymoon, Sundabar, Neverwinter, standard. The banner with the purple Adventurers wishing to make their per- and other “good” cities of the North) dragon on a black field has flown over manent residence in Cormyr must with Waterdeep intact. He is learned in Cormyr for many, relatively peaceful, obtain a charter from Azoun. Public the history, lore, and traditions of magic years. This long period of prosperity, display of weapons is also limited, and as practiced by humans in the North coupled with Azoun’s reputation of adventurers who travel armed in pub- since the rise from barbarism. being a just ruler, has made Azoun’s lic must have their weapons bound in Other notes: It is suggested that subjects loyal and content. “peace strings,” ornate cords which are DMs adjust Khelben’s level upward to However, Azoun himself has found knotted around a weapon to deter its 10 levels above the strongest PC, for use the price of rulership difficult to pay. quick use. in humbling runaway characters. Because he is a devoted father and hus- Though Azoun does maintain his band, he has often found the demands skills as a swordsman, he personally King Azoun IV of of state far too taxing on his personal favors the finer things his position can time. Also, because Azoun is idealistic, offer him. He is a patron of the arts, and Cormyr he finds the idea of sometimes placing his court at Suzail is one of the most ARMOR CLASS: 0/ -7 the survival of the state over the needs refined in all the Realms. He dabbles in MOVE: 12” of its individual citizens very disturb- both poetry and music, but is especially Hit Points: 105 ing. fond of drama. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Vangerdahast, the royal court magi- This may account for his penchant DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type cian and Azoun’s closest friend, will for disguises. Often, when he ventures SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil often advise the king on these difficult out of the court, he will try to pass him- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil matters. Because “Vangy” does not self off as a merchant. He is, in fact, MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil share Azoun’s Lawful Good outlook, quite adept at this and can sometimes SIZE: M (5’11”) favoring instead the tenets of Law and fool even the most astute observer. ALIGNMENT: Lawful Good Neutrality, he will often attempt to per- The other possible motivation for PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil suade Azoun that his rigid belief in Azoun’s use of disguises is his long- 20th-Level Human Cavalier Good cannot always be functional in standing feud with the thieves and S:18/00 I:15 W:14 D:18 C:18 CH:16 the “real world.” assassins guilds in and around Cormyr. Yet, despite any momentary doubts Azoun detests thieves and assassins, Weapon proficiencies: Lance, Azoun may have about the conflicts of and he went so far as to drive the Fire long sword, broad sword, horseman’s individual liberty vs. duty to the state, Knives, an organization of assassins, flail. he will always make his decisions based from Cormyr. There are many practi- Non-weapon proficiencies: Eti- upon loyalty and duty to the “higher” tioners of the thieving arts who would quette, heraldry, falconry, alertness, good of the state and the promotion of be happy to see Azoun dead, and he has peace in the kingdom. In functional been the object of many assassination

61 MINOR CHARACTERS attempts. One of these attempts Akabar Bel Akash the family. This may sound a bit odd, involved the creation of Alias by the but it isn’t when you realize that Turm- Fire Knives, among others. ARMOR CLASS: 10 ish businesses are run by women, and For their very substantial financial MOVE: 12” businesses are generally family opera- backing of Cassana as she prepared her Hit Points: 15 tions. Akabar, in fact, is little more than experiment for life, the Fire Knives NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 a front man for his wives’ enterprises. were allowed to include their sigil on DAMAGE/ATTACK: By spell This does not mean that Akabar is not Alias’ arm and program her for one SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil self-sufficient or even strong-willed. task. The Fire Knives decided their SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Actually, he must have had both of highest priority was the assassination MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil those traits in order for his first wife to of Azoun. As soon as she heard King SIZE: M (6’2”) take him into her family when they Azoun’s voice, Alias was instructed to ALIGNMENT: Lawful Good married. He is very happy with his fam- attack and kill him immediately. The PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil ily and business arrangement. He plot failed when Giogioni Wyvernspur, Fifth-Level Human Human Magic-User enjoys traveling, and sees that his a Cormyrian nobleman, imitated S:11 I:15 W:13 D:12 C:13 CH:14 strengths as a persuasive and honest Azoun’s voice at a wedding. Alias seller are being put to good use. attacked Giogi, and it was only luck, and Non-weapon proficiencies: Akabar is generally very practical, the interference of Alias’ friends, that Direction sense, cooking, survival cold, and this fact is mirrored in the spells he saved Giogi’s life. reading/writing. commonly uses. The Turmishman will Azoun has a very high regard for Commonly used spells: Fly, pyro- study spells that have specific uses in magic and magic-users, and he recog- technics, wizard eye, magic missile, dis- his travels as a merchant. nizes the great potential for good and pel magic, enlarge, continual light, He will always know a number of use- evil among practitioners of the magic magic mouth, cantrips, haste, deep ful cantrips, like clean, dry, and spice, arts. Mages of fifth level or higher must pockets, bind. and the higher-level spells he studies, register with the government. The Akabar Bel Akash, from the rich and like fly or haste, will be geared toward magic-user’s name, sigil, and abode are prosperous land of Turmish, is a mer- escape or self-preservation. Akabar recorded with Vangerdahast. The royal chant and “mage of no small water,” as commonly throws a magic mouth spell magician and the Council of Mages in they say in that part of the Realms. Aka- on his earring to alert him to danger as Suzail, also known as the “war wizards,” bar deals in fine weaves and spices, and he sleeps. will often call upon the mages regis- is known by all who deal with him as a The most offense-oriented spell he tered with them for state service in fair and honest trader. studies is magic missile — never fireball times of crisis. Like many Turmish merchants, Aka- or lightning bolt — and that spell is used Azoun wears bracers of defense (AC bar sports a mustache and a long, to skewer his dinner more often than it 3), and a +3 ring of protection when square beard. He is dark-skinned, blue- is to strike an opponent. His recent not in battle. He also wears a ring of eyed, and has curly brown hair which adventures, however, have made him free action at all times. In battle, in true he often bands with gold cords. Though quite proficient in the use of his chosen cavalier style, Azoun wears a magnifi- the merchant-mage is very thin, his spells. In battle, he will often fly around cent suit of +5 full plate armor, and true size is often hidden by the large, his opponents, using his other spells to carries a +2 shield emblazoned with billowing robes he favors. He will often keep them off-balance until he and his his standard. He owns a large number be found wearing robes of crimson party have a chance to escape. of enchanted swords but prefers to highlighted with thin white stripes and The events that so radically changed fight with either his vorpal sword or a white cloak with red trim. His cloth- Akabar’s peaceful, prosperous life were +4 defender. ing cannot hide his height of 6’2”, how- the result of his desire to have one mag- In playing Azoun, GMs should ever. nificent adventure before he got too remember that the king is committed to Akabar has three blue dots tattooed old. He got far more than he bargained the safety and freedom of his people. horizontally across his forehead. These for and came very close to never grow- He will deal harshly with trouble- dots mark him as a Turmish scholar of ing old. makers and will tend toward over- religion, reading, and magic. He also Akabar’s adventure started when he generosity with those who want to help wears a single sapphire embedded in was delivering fine weaves to an estate the kingdom. However, Vangerdahast his left earlobe. The earring signifies north of Suzail for a wedding; will be at his side or very close by at all that Akabar is married. Dimswart, a local magic-user and sage, times to make sure things don’t get out In fact, Akabar has two wives — was finally marrying off his last daugh- of hand. Akash and Kassim — and they are cur- ter. rently looking for a third wife to join The caravan was attacked by Mis-

62 MINOR CHARACTERS

tinarperadnacles, a red dragon, and and using his voice and form to commu- Cassana is several hundred years old, one of the wagons was carried away, nicate with Alias, who was also a pris- but appears to be no more than 40. along with its occupants, the intended oner at the time. The effects of this However, the sorceress is very proud entertainment for the wedding — the possession are still unknown, though, and would never allow herself to seem “famous bard” Olive Ruskettle. Aka- as Akabar noted, his part in the eventu- anything less than beautiful. Her long, bar’s spellbook was also taken in the al defeat of the mad god will certainly deep reddish-blonde hair and hard, raid, though it is unclear how Olive gain him Moander’s eternal enmity. green eyes, her harsh, high cheekbones Ruskettle came to be carrying it when In a game scenario, Akabar will be and soft, flawless skin, have all been she was stolen away with the wagon. encountered as a merchant. He has had preserved through a complicated lon- Dimswart was intent on rescuing the his magnificent adventure and is now gevity spell stored in the wand she con- lost entertainer and hired a mysterious content to spend the rest of his days stantly carries. swordswoman, Alias, and her saurial trading his wares in the Realms. Cassana’s preserved beauty cannot companion, Dragonbait, to save her. However, Akabar Bel Akash now feels hide her dark, perverted soul. Cassana Akabar knew of a secret way into the a strong kindred spirit with adventur- is an irrevocably evil, sadistic woman. dragon’s lair, and used that knowledge ers and will be helpful in any way he As she has survived for several hun- to force Alias and Dragonbait to take can — short of joining in their adven- dred years, too, she’s had plenty of time him along. tures. His travels as a merchant have to perfect her depravity and support it This was not his first meeting with given him an outstanding knowledge of with her extensive magical ability. Alias. Only a few days before Dimswart the areas surrounding the Inner Sea, in The sorceress’s cruelty, though many sent them to rescue Olive Ruskettle, addition to his vast knowledge of Turm- call it insanity, is so legendary that an Akabar had tried to discover the origins ish history and religion, He will be glad opera has been written about her. The of the strange tattoo on Alias’ right arm. to talk, at length, on any one of these story the opera tells, that of the warped When Akabar cast a detect magic spell subjects, or just trade tales of adven- relationship between Cassana and Zrie on the tattoo, a frightening blue light tures with friendly parties he encoun- Prakis, is well-known in the Realms. erupted from it. Alias was understand- ters. The tale reveals a great deal about Cas- ably upset by this and was not pleased sana’s personality. when Akabar — the Turmite green gro- Cassana Cassana met Prakis while they were cer, as she sarcastically called him — both magelings, just beginning their was included in her foray against the ARMOR CLASS: -3 studies of the magical arts. They fell in dragon. MOVE: 12” love, pledged their eternal faithfulness, As time went on, and Akabar and Ali- Hit Points: 35 then were forced to part. as shared more adventures, the two NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Different versions of the story give grew very close. Akabar considered DAMAGE/ATTACK: By spell different reasons for this separation. In himself Alias’ protector for a long time. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use one version, Cassana and Zrie Prakis As Alias grew self-confident, and Aka- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil are sent on their journeyman quests to bar learned to trust her mute saurial MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil opposite ends of the Inner Sea; in companion, Dragonbait, he realized SIZE: M another, Zrie Prakis gets lost on the that he was not needed in that capacity. ALIGNMENT: Neutral Evil Ethereal Plane and cannot return for His time adventuring with Alias, as PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil many years. Typically, the opera has she searched for the origin of her mys- 15th-Level Human Magic-User Cassana kidnapped by pirates and terious “azure bonds,” matured Akabar, S:11 I:18 W:12 D:13 C:13 CH:16 unable to return to her lover. especially in his use of magic. He All versions of the story agree on became invaluable to Alias and was cru- Non-weapon proficiencies: what happened next. As the years pass cial in the eventual defeat of Cassana Reading/writing, etiquette. and the lovers remain separate, both and Zrie Prakis. Commonly used spells: Torment, Cassana and Zrie Prakis grow vain and For a time, Akabar was linked with repulsion, death spell, teleport, cloud evil and very powerful. When they next the god Moander, when the deity kill, fear, animate dead, polymorph oth- meet, they duel over who is the more escaped from his prison in Yulash. In er, fireball. powerful. Cassana wins the contest, but the form of The Abomination — a The first thing one notices about the only by killing Zrie Prakis. mound of decaying earth and greenery strangely attractive sorceress is that Whether Cassana was already a that has the ability to grow a myriad of her features seem like they have been depraved person by this time or the act eyes and mouths — Moander captured etched irrevocably in alabaster. Her of murdering her lover drove her the merchant-mage and possessed his beauty seems too perfect to be real. In insane, her actions after the duel reveal mind, dragging him along like a puppet fact, it is not real at all. just how perverse she was. After she

63 MINOR CHARACTERS killed Zrie Prakis, Cassana gathered her ing it. morph other, animate dead, cloud kill, lover’s charred remains and placed GMs should emphasize Cassana’s cha- contact other planes, teleport, Xult’s them in a glass sarcophagus that she risma and cruelty in game encounters. magical doom, death spell, repulsion, keeps by her bedside. If she is resurrected in some form in a and torment. Eventually, Cassana helped to revive game, she will first recreate her wand Zrie Prakis and now controls the lich and restore her youthful appearance. Catti-Brie through her wand, as she does all of her Also she will likely be even more insane “creations.” The sorceress loves to dom- and vengeful than she was in her earli- ARMOR CLASS: 3 inate and control beings and is only sat- er incarnation. She will then gather MOVE: 12” Hit Points: 22 isfied when she has broken an allies and will usually have at least two NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 opponent’s will. It is likely this is the servants of notable power at her imme- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type reason she resurrected Zrie Prakis: His diate call. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil death was far too quick, and Cassana The sorceress’s wand was 18" long, SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil was left with no chance to gloat on the shimmering blue, and had three func- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil victory and break her lover’s haughty tions. First, it acted as a modified per- SIZE: M (5’4”) spirit. manent potion of longevity, allowing ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good This desire for control was certainly Cassana not to age when she was in pos- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Cassana’s main motivation for the crea- session of the wand. The wand also Third-Level Human Fighter tion of the swordswoman, Alias — or allowed her to control Zrie Prakis. The S:12 I:14 W:16 D:16 C:15 CH:17 “Puppet,” as Cassana called her. In fact, lich’s existence was somehow linked to the sorceress’s desire for control over the wand. When the wand was “Beautiful women were a rarity in Alias was such that she made the destroyed, it is assumed Prakis was this remote setting (Ten-Towns), and swordswoman in her image, though destroyed as well. Finally, the wand this girl was indeed the exception. Alias’ features are far less harsh than allowed Cassana to control Alias and Shiny auburn locks danced gaily about Cassana’s. creatures she summoned from other her shoulders, the intense sparkle of For the experiment, the sorceress planes, like the dreaded kalmari, as if her dark blue eyes enough to bind any gathered the support of Zrie Prakis, the they were puppets under her com- man hopelessly within their depths.” Fire Knives, the mad god Moander, a mand. — from Streams of Silver mysterious, extra-dimensional halfling- Cassana’s spellbook is still somewhere shaped being named Phalse, and the in Westgate. Though it is well protect- Beautiful indeed is the adopted Nameless Bard. While most of the ed, the book is very valuable and worth daughter of Bruenor Battlehammer, but beings involved in Alias’ creation had a the time to recover. The book is bound an enemy should take care not to clear, specific goal for her, Cassana in black leather with Cassana’s sigil — underestimate the young woman. So wanted simply to create something an insect leg-shaped squiggle surround- innocent, she seems, and so full of kind- over which she had absolute control. ed by a design of thorns — is on the cov- ness and gaiety. Yet she was raised Of course, it did not work out that er and binding. among the hardened dwarves in the way. Alias was instrumental in Cas- The thorns are a special defense. brutal land of Icewind Dale and knows sana’s death on the plains outside of Anyone touching the book will cause which end of the sword is which. Westgate, where Cassana maintained the branches of thorns to come to life Tolerant, though, Catti-brie is not her home. During a ceremony which and attack the intruder, moving quick to anger, and even then reluctant was intended to destroy whatever free straight for his or her eyes. A failed to fight. She prefers to talk through a will Alias had achieved after her birth, save vs. magic will mean the character problem, or to simply walk away. Alias, Akabar, Dragonbait, Olive is permanently blinded. The book is Not for fear, though. Brave and able Ruskettle, and the Nameless Bard ral- also protected by Xult’s magical doom, as any warrior, Catti-brie wades into lied against Cassana and her allies. for those who make it past the thorns. battle with complete composure and a During the battle, Cassana’s wand The spellbook contains 28 pages, each methodical approach to get the job was tossed into the extra-planar Citadel containing one spell. The book con- done as painlessly as possible. She of White Exile, where it was later tains: alarm, comprehend languages, abhors violence and all the suffering it destroyed. Though a formidable enemy magic missile, read magic, spider climb, brings, but she is realistic enough to even without her wand, the combined bind, darkness 15’ radius, ray of enfee- understand the practicality of knowing might of the heroes was too much for blement, ray of Ondovir waves of wea- how to defend herself. Cassana. The sorceress was apparently riness, fireball, fly, lightning bolt, And she is well suited to do so. She destroyed when Zrie Prakis’ staff of missile mastery, wind wall, confusion, wears a suit of elven chain mail (not power was broken while she was hold- dimension door, fear, ice storm, poly- magical) which Bruenor had acquired

64 MINOR CHARACTERS in a trade for some weapons he had feelings about the tragedies of her past. something to teach her otherwise. forged. She wears no shield, nor a “Life is for livin’!” she always says. She’s not fond of battle, even with helm, and typically fights with a long “And there be no worth in painin’ over goblins and the like, perceiving violence sword in melee, but an approaching foe what ye cannot change!” as the cornerstone of everything that is is likely to get stuck with Catti-brie’s To Bruenor she remains his little girl, ugly in the world. Not that she’d walk favorite dagger, which is always but in the short life span of a human, into a goblin camp and try to make strapped to her hip, long before he ever Catti-brie is now coming into adult- friends, she would just rather avoid gets to her. The dagger is +1 to hit and hood. She is surrounded by colorful them altogether. to damage in melee, but specially bal- and heroic figures, has many dear And if a member of a party shows her anced to be +3 to hit when thrown, friends and dozens of willing suitors an ugly, destructive side, she’ll walk though the damage bonus remains +1. (though even the most lovesick of these away. And if they try to bring harm Though formidable in battle, Catti- flinches whenever he thinks of her pro- upon another, she’ll defend their brie’s heart is for the home. She places tective father’s many-notched axe), but intended victim. more value on people and feelings than the man who intrigues Catti-brie the Stubbornly, and without fear. on material possessions and exotic loca- most is undoubtedly Wulfgar. tions. By her thinking, the real struggles For the five years that the young bar- Fzoul Chembry of in life are internal battles — Bruenor barian served Bruenor, Catti-brie coming to accept his present life in light watched him grow into a complete Zhentil Keep of his obsession to find Mithril Hall; human being. She helped strip the ARMOR CLASS: 1 Drizzt Do’Urden (whom Catti-brie plac- bonds of his misguided pride from the MOVE: 12” es upon a high pedestal of respect and caring and compassionate aspects of his Hit Points: 80 admiration) finding worth in an exist- personality, and now sees in him many NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 ence of few friends and fewer com- of the finer attributes of both Drizzt DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6 +4 +4 mace) forts; and herself, reaching beyond the and Bruenor. Both human, and about SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use scars of her past. the same age, Catti-brie and Wulfgar SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil She was born in Mirabar, the daughter have shared much in their time togeth- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil of a miner. Her mother died in childbirth er, their most personal feelings and SIZE: M and her father, determined to make a bet- fears, and their outlook on all the ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil ter life for his baby girl, moved to Ten- world. They have come to see that they PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Towns, the village of Termalaine, to find are kindred spirits in many ways. 13th-Level Cleric his fortune in the valuable knucklehead They haven’t realized it, perhaps, but S:12 I:14 W:17 D:15 C:16 CH:13 trout. For three years, he did indeed they are in love. make great gains in his standard of living, Roleplaying tips: Bouncy, and Commonly remembered spells: and he even found a new wife and moth- with a zest for living that only enhances • First-level — Bless, ceremony, er for Catti-brie. her already awesome beauty, Catti-brie detect magic, protection from But the lure of Ten-Towns’ wealth is much more than just an attractive good. blinds many to the dangers of the centerpiece in a group of adventurers. • Second-level — Augury, chant, hold region. A goblin raid on Termalaine Those that know her, respect her opin- person x2 quickly ended the man’s dreams and ions (which she’ll freely give) and trust • Third-level — Bestow curse, dispel left Catti-brie orphaned. All of Terma- fully in her judgment. With a hard magic, prayer. laine might have fallen that day, except background and a pragmatic upbring- • Fourth-level — Abjure, divination, that Clan Battlehammer rushed out of ing by the down-to-earth dwarves, the tongues. their rocky valley and drove the foul young woman understands pain and • Fifth-level — Cure critical wounds, horde away. Bruenor himself actually the harsh realities of the world, but she raise dead. saved the baby girl from a goblin refuses to give an inch with her optimis- • Sixth-level — Word of recall (which sword, and when the smoke had tic view that even a single person can takes him to his hidden refuge in cleared away and the city was secured, make things better. the wastes of Thar). he claimed the orphan as his own and And Catti-brie views each new person Physical description: Fzoul is a took her back to the mines. she meets as an enhancement to her human male, wily, glib-tongued, burly, Catti-brie has no real memories of the life, dismissing Bruenor’s teachings that red-haired-and-mustached, and hand- time before Bruenor, just conjured a person must prove his worth. Quite some. He usually wears the full panoply images pieced together from stories she the contrary, Catti-brie will be open and of ceremonial garments of a high priest has been told. But she has lived a fine friendly to new acquaintances and of Bane. life with the dwarves and has no bitter believe the best of them until they do

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Equipment: Fzoul commonly wears shoon’s cloaktails, he could create his armies of Zhentil Keep (or mercenary bracers of defense AC2 and adds a suit own tyranny within the church of armies hired by Thay, depending on the of full plate when he goes into battle Bane, and surely that must be pleasing side involved) to rid themselves of these (making his armor class 0). He usually to the god. meddlesome adventurers. wields his mace +4, but uses a silver By his machinations, Fzoul emerged One possible storyline would involve flail or a morning star +1 if the situa- at Manshoon’s right side when the an agent of Fzoul offering the adventur- tion seems to demand them. On his fin- Zhentarim took over Zhentil Keep and ers a contract to retrieve an important gers he has a ring of free action and a then the Citadel of the Raven. The high item from some ruin or the treasure ring of spell storing. He treasures the imperceptor of Bane, a 19th-level cleric house of a rival of Zhentil Keep. When rod of cancellation which he keeps in a who has his headquarters in the Black the adventurers retrieve the item, they sheath inside his left boot. Lord’s Altar in Mulmaster, is now find that Fzoul has decided to reward In his temple, The Dark Shrine, he Fzoul’s bitter enemy. The imperceptor, them by enlisting them forcibly into his has three blocks of incense of medita- Szchulan Darkoon, continues to own select forces, binding them with tion, and a staff of the serpent (adder) express his disdain for Manshoon as a charm spells to insure their loyalty. for personal use in emergencies. priest and his belief that only Bane can From there, we have an adventure of Personality: Fzoul is a politician. He be worshiped as the ultimate tyrant, escape, rescue, and eventual revenge. has something good to say for anyone and his priests should have the rule of who can do him good, and nothing but the people of Bane. Many of those who Cyndre scorn for those who cannot affect his follow these precepts are priests who career. He is also quite patient. His theoretically follow Fzoul. There is ARMOR CLASS: 2 exploitation of the intricacies of Bane some fear among Fzoul’s followers that MOVE: 12” politics to gain power has been slow, Szchulan is working with the eye tyrant Hit Points: 56 but sure. Manxam, but Fzoul does not feel this is NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Motivations: Fzoul is the leader of a significant threat, even if true. DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d4 the minority of priests of Bane who fol- Other notes: The ongoing struggle SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use low Manshoon. He, and they, feels that between the factions among the priests SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil the proper worship of the god of tyr- of Bane gives plenty of opportunity for MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil anny is to support a tyrant. He feels the adventures involving the machinations SIZE: M most efficient tyrant around is Man- of Fzoul Chembryl, if not with the cleric ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil shoon. Fzoul is careful to remain neces- himself. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil sary to and friends with Manshoon, The Red Wizards of Thay, inasmuch 19th-Level Human Magic-User while keeping as much power as possi- as they have a united policy at all (see S:12 I:18 W:14 D:15 C:15 CH:17 ble in his own hands, so that Manshoon FR6, DREAMS OF THE RED WIZARDS), will never consider him expendable, or support Szchulan and his adherents. Commonly remembered spells: a threat so powerful that he must be This is not so much because of a belief • First-level — Charm person x3. destroyed. in his version of the message of Bane, • Second-level — Invisibility In fact, because of his command of but because that can weaken their • Third-level — Lightning bolt x2. the hierarchy of Bane within the Zhen- rivals, the Zhentarim. • Fourth-level — Polymorph others x tarim, his influence with the everyday Thus, the rivalry between Fzoul’s fac- 2, dimension door, transport (other members of that organization is actu- tion and Szchulan’s provides many notes below). ally greater than Manshoon’s. opportunities for races to retrieve a • Fifth-level — Cloud kill, wall of His main ambition is to be, for now special artifact before the other side iron, telekinesis, teleport. and always, the true leader of the wor- gets it, rivalries with other (NPC) adven- • Sixth-level — Death. ship of Bane in Zhentil Keep. turer bands who have been hired by l Seventh-level — Power word: stun, Background notes: Manshoon’s the other side, and involved confidence reverse gravity rise to create and lead the Zhentarim is games where one side is played against • Eighth-level — Trap the soul. told elsewhere in this book. In Fzoul, he the other while the characters actually • Ninth-level — Power word: kill. early found the ideal theological back- work to deny both sides’ goals. Physical description: Cyndre is ing for his play for power. And, of course, if characters manage always wrapped in a dark cloak. When Fzoul was an immediate convert to to foil several of either side’s schemes, he drops the deep hood of the cloak, he Manshoon’s party — seeing in the char- they gain an ongoing enemy who will reveals blond, curly hair and a cherubic ismatic magic-user the embodiment of employ anything in his arsenal, includ- smile in a wide, almost-childlike, face. the true nature of his god. Moreover, he ing Zhentarim assassins, summoned Under the cloak he wears a soft cotton could see that by holding onto Man- monsters and demons, and even the gown embroidered in gold. He rarely

66 MINOR CHARACTERS expresses any negative emotions on his culmination of his attempt to finally Robyn, and Alexei’s intervention helped face; pursing his lips is a strong display control the Moonshaes, Cyndre had six finally bring Cyndre’s schemes down of feeling. like-minded magic-users at his call. around his ears. But his eyes are a pale blue — icy as In the meantime, Cyndre had struck Other notes: death. up an alliance with the high priest of Equipment: Ring of protection +2, Bhaal, Hobarth. Each felt he was con- Transport (alteration) ring of wizardry (doubles first- and trolling the actions of the other. Togeth- Level: 4 second-level spells), staff of slinging, er, they forged their master plan to Components: V,S mirror of mental prowess, bracers of conquer the Moonshaes from within. Range: 1” AC 5. After he arranged for the death of Casting Time: special Personality: Cyndre is always con- Curmavyss and usurping the leader- Duration: Special trolled and diplomatic. His voice is ship of the Council of Sorcerers, Cyn- Saving Throw: Neg. always pleasant and conversational. dre began his program of confrontation Area of Effect: 1 target. Like a diplomat, he is always looking for and extermination of the druids of an advantage for himself. Alaron. His first step was to enthrall Explanation/description: The magic- Motivations: Cyndre desires to rule High King Carrathal. Then the high user must prepare a cell for the target a large kingdom to prove to himself that king enrolled the ogres and outlaws of the spell ahead of time, and do part of the Red Wizards of Thay were wrong Cyndre designated into his Scarlet the spell then. This takes one full turn. to ignore and disdain him. The Moon- Guard. With this force and his own The rest of the spell stays in his mind shaes had a weak ruler and divided peo- magic behind him, Cyndre moved (taking up the space of one fourth-level ples, but it is a large and rich land, against the druids of Alaron. spell) until used. When used, multicol- ready for exploitation, just what he was The druids could not move fast ored streamers come from the hand enough to stop him. In a few years, the seeking. and engulf the victim in one segment. Background notes: Cyndre came sacred groves had been desecrated, and The victim grows blurry and is ban- to the Moonshaes from Thay about the the druids of Alaron had been wiped ished to the pre-prepared cell. same time as described in FR2, MOON- out far more thoroughly by Cyndre SHAE. He did not get along with the than they’d ever been by Kazgaroth’s zulkirs who rule Thay, and decided to machinations. Daryth of Calimshan carve out his own empire. The rela- In the meantime, his assassin, the ARMOR CLASS: 3 tively uncivilized Moonshaes seemed half-orc Razfallow (seventh-level fight- MOVE: 12” like an ideal target. er, ninth-level thief), managed to eradi- Hit Points: 44 The high king already had a Council cate the royal families and principal NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 of Sorcerers, an institution created by druids of Moray and Snowdown. Slow- DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 his father 30 years before. The current, ly, the kingdom of Corwell, which con- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil and first, leader of the council was Cur- tained the principal druid of the SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil mavyss, a 15th-level magic-user born in Moonshaes, was isolated from the rest MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil the Isles who had studied under the of the Ffolk. Bhaal knew his avatar, SIZE: M wizards of Waterdeep. He had eight Kazgaroth, sought the dominion of that ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good mages under him. home of the druidic religion, and want- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Curmavyss welcomed Cyndre, who ed to be sure the druid leaders would 10th-Level Human Thief was already almost as powerful as he, have no friends left when the beast’s S:13 I:15 W:13 D:18 C:17 CH:14 and Cyndre’s companion Alexei, into attack came. Cyndre did not under- the council with some misgivings. How- stand these qualms, but humored his Thiefly skills: Pick pockets 90%, ever, he felt that magic-users of their ally. open locks 83%, find/remove traps accomplishments and background When Tristan Kendrick and Robyn 70%, move silently 88%, hide in should not be allowed to run around the druid defeated and destroyed shadows 73%, hear noise 30%, climb loose. Curmavyss thought he could Kazgaroth, Cyndre became the main walls 99%, read languages 50%. keep better control of the newcomers if instrument in Bhaal’s attempt to punish Physical description: Daryth is they were part of the council. the Moonshaes for the destruction of swarthy and quick, and his black eyes Within three years Curmavyss was his avatar. flash with humor and danger. He dead, as were five other members of In the meantime, he alienated his speaks heavily accented Common- the council. Cyndre and Alexei subvert- companion Alexei, who tried to warn speech and likes to wear a red cloak ed the other resident members and him of the duplicity of Hobarth. This and, in dangerous situations, leather brought in some others, so that at the drove Alexei to the side of Tristan and

67 MINOR CHARACTERS

armor. He has an excellent rapport with cover. Daryth was trained as a dog of Kazgaroth’s attempt to destroy Cor- dogs. trainer, learning the trade as trainer of well and the conflict with Cyndre and Equipment: Gloves of thievery and the desert racers of Calimshan. Hobarth. They provide an entertaining escape; these are like gloves of thievery However, he found himself in a dis- confrontation in any of the taverns they (see UNEARTHED ARCANA), but they pute with the pasha about rights to haunt in Corwell or on the trail if they also allow the user to escape from any some property he acquired on a mis- are out hunting with Tristan’s hound, bondange on his hands. No rope, shack- sion, and thought it prudent to take an Canthus. le, or chain can bind his hands if he extended, and unofficial, leave of If befriended, Daryth proves a true, if wishes to remove that bondage. This absence. sometimes critical, friend. He also has has no effect on the rest of his body, if He embarked on a career as a sailor, an excellent memory for those who that is bound, but a thief with his hands but found that the ocean waves did not oppose him and, while he is willing to free is likely to escape any other bind- agree with him. After a stormy passage forget and forgive if given the opportu- ings in very little time. The gloves also across the Sea of Swords, his ship nity, he is not an opponent one should contain an undetectable supply of docked at Corwell, and Daryth decided continue harassing. wires and other lock-picking tools. to find another career on dry land. Daryth is a swordsman and dagger Daryth also uses a silver scimitar with His career as a thief was short-lived. man. He has some ability with sling and a leather hilt that he found in the same His first victim in Corwell was Tristan short bow, but would rather show off firbolg treasure hoard in which Tristan Kendrick, prince of Corwell, who real- his skill with melee weapons. found the Sword of Cymrych Hugh. ized he had been robbed immediately Personality: Daryth was deter- and chased Daryth down. In a fight Dendybar minedly light and amusing, refusing to with daggers they showed each other take anything seriously if he could help they were good fighters, and a bond ARMOR CLASS: 7 it. In battle or dangerous situations, he sprung up between them, reinforced MOVE: 6” became quieter and more serious, but by Robyn’s instant liking for Daryth. Hit Points: 22 could still see the light side of a situation At Robyn’s instigation, Tristan hired NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 and had time to mock an enemy. Daryth as his master of hounds, and DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or Motivations: As a spy for the pasha Daryth then shared their adventures spell of Calimshan, Daryth had no real moti- throughout the Moonshaes. He sur- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use vations except to please his teachers vived the fight against Kazgaroth SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil and superiors. Once he severed that (though he may have died in the final MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard relationship, he was totally rootless, battle against that beast but for the SIZE: M (5’7”) and embarked on a journey partly to intervention of the Goddess). He jour- ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Evil avoid the reprisals of the pasha and, neyed to Alaron with Tristan and there 11th-Level Human Magic-User really, just to see what he could see and fought High King Carrathal and the wiz- Second-Level Cleric find another place for himself. ard Cyndre until both were slain, and S:9 I:17 W:15 D:10 C:8 CH:9 When he came to Corwell and met Tristan was proclaimed the high king. Tristan and Robyn, he initially found When the three friends returned to By all appearances, Dendybar, the two good comrades. Then, as Gwynneth to confront Hobarth, Daryth mottled wizard of Luskan’s Hosttower Kazgaroth’s net began to tighten on was separated from his companions of the Arcane, seems a weakly man, too Corwell, he found a cause in which he and hunted down and slain by a displac- frail to be of any threat. Yet there is a could believe, and he worked diligently er beast sent by Bhaal to help destroy magical strength about this wizard that for the good of the people of the Moon- Myrloch Vale. more than compensates for his physical shaes and his friends. He felt more than Other notes: At the time of events frailties. His movements slow and delib- friendship for Robyn, but realized that in FR2, MOONSHAE, Daryth is just fin- erate, his voice a passionless monotone, her preference was for Tristan, what- ishing his training in espionage in the and his hollowed face buried beneath ever her actions toward him at any school of the pasha of Calimshan. Char- the shadows of his robe’s cowl, Dendy- time. acters in that nation at that time may bar creeps along from dark corner to Background notes: Daryth was have cause to run into this young, but dark corner, trusting no one and always selected as a child to be a student in the very promising, secret agent and per- ready with some form of magical pasha of Calimshan’s Academy of haps rue the experience. If your cam- attack. Stealth, a school for spies. Every stu- paign is set later, in the time of He is a small man, barely weighing dent of the school is taught the usual DARKWALKER ON MOONSHAE, Dar- 100 pounds, and he seems to be no thiefly skills as they apply to espionage, yth can often be found in the company more than withered skin stretched and is also trained in one other skill, of his friend, Tristan, between the time over bones to anyone who has seen him

68 MINOR CHARACTERS

without his robes. His eyes look out powers from his former days. apprentice and was undyingly loyal. from within the cowl, a penetrating and But now he watches over his shoulder dangerous glare, darker spots in deep “The hood that constantly shadows for the strike he knows will eventually and dark sockets. The few tufts of Dendybar’s features hides a face that is come. white hair he has left cling stubbornly little more than a skin-covered skull, And he shakes his head whenever he in scraggly patches. Myrkul’s mark upon his most loyal ser- sees Sydney, Dendybar’s apprentice, Perhaps as compensation for his vant. for he wonders how long it will be physical inadequacies, Dendybar nor- “In addition to his magic spells, Den- before Dendybar aims his foul temper mally keeps several powerful offensive dybar may animate 1d6 skeletons or at her. spells at his disposal, and most others 1d3 zombies each round of combat, so Roleplaying tips: Dendybar says he memorizes from day to day, wheth- long as bodies are available.” little, but hears everything that is being er he expects to leave the Hosttower or — from The Savage Frontier said around him, and always views the not, are designed to get him away from by Paul Jaquays words of others in the most negative dangerous situations. The exceptions light. He will pursue any road or join are those days when Dendybar plans to The mottled wizard takes great care any group that promises him a substan- summon an otherworldly being, usu- to keep his religion private, even to his tial gain in power, but otherwise has no ally a demon. Then his repertoire is closest confidants, understanding the desire to leave his small laboratory in dedicated almost exclusively to spells mistrust that would naturally arise the Hosttower. Normally, he sends Syd- pertaining to the situation (protection against someone serving such a god. ney out to do his work. from evil and dolor, for example). On an No one knows Dendybar’s actual age, But even if an adventure is successful average day, though, Dendybar typi- but he seems to have found a limbo in bringing Dendybar all that he hoped cally would be armed with the follow- state concerning aging, caught some- it would, he is not likely to look favor- ing spells: where between life and death. Rumors ably upon his fellow adventurers. Any- • First-level — Charm person, magic say that, like Arklem Greeth, the arch- one who has witnessed his gains, he missile, run. mage of the Hosttower of the Arcane, reasons in his perverted view of the • Second-level — Invisibility, ESP Dendybar seeks lichdom, an undead world, serves as a potential threat to web darkness 15’ radius. state where his magic and sheer will- those gains. • Third-level — Protection from nor- power alone sustain him. And, in the true spirit of Myrkul, mal missiles, lightning bolt, wind Perhaps to find that end, or maybe must be eliminated! wall, hold person. simply in his never-ending hunt for • Fourth-level — Dimension door, greater power, Dendybar has become Dimswart wall of fire, Leomund’s secure shel- obsessed with possessing the Crystal ter. Shard, the mighty relic of unspeakable ARMOR CLASS: 3 • Fifth-level — Cone of cold, teleport, evil forged in a past age. Dendybar MOVE: 12” passwall. knows little about the specifics of the Hit Points: 19 In addition to this considerable reper- artifact, but realizes that the Crystal NO. OF ATTACKS: 1FL) DAMAGE/ toire, Dendybar wields several magic Shard brought Akar Kessell, a bum- ATTACK: By weapon type or spell items, including a staff of power and a bling, inept apprentice to the verge of SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use ring of protection +3. His mottled robe conquering the Far North. What might SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil is really a robe of eyes, and just because it do in the hands of a true wizard? MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil he likes the chaos of rampant fire, he And the quest for power is at the core SIZE: M has fashioned a wand of fireballs, com- of Dendybar’s every action. Now serv- ALIGNMENT: Lawful Good plete with a holster, for his belt. While ing as the master of the North Spire, PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Sydney is his present apprentice, Den- one of the four wizards closest in suc- Sixth-Level Magic-User dybar puts his full faith only in Bok, a cession to Greeth’s throne, Dendybar S:12 I:17 W:16 D:11 C:13 CH:14 flesh golem of incredible strength that gained his title by arranging the mur- he created as a defense against his fel- der of the former occupant of the post. Non-weapon proficiencies: low wizards. And he knows no loyalty whatsoever. Reading/writing, etiquette, fungus For one so adept at the black arts, Eldeluc, the budding wizard who was identification, healing, plant lore. Dendybar started his career, not as a in on the conspiracy, has been targeted Commonly used spells: Read mage, but as a cleric serving Myrkul, as the mottled wizard’s next victim sim- magic, dispel magic, identify, message, the lord of bones. He switched profes- ply because Dendybar resents the oth- ESP locate object, deep pockets. sions in an attempt to better serve er mage’s fast climb through the lower Since retiring from adventuring, Myrkul, but has retained several ranks. Eldeluc was once Dendybar’s Dimswart generally can be found in his

69 MINOR CHARACTERS beautiful home in the countryside The Sage of Suzail generally uses his nearby should make him a valuable north of Suzail. He lives in Manor magical abilities to further his studies. source in any campaign. Dimswart with his wife, Leona, and a In fact, Dimswart’s life is devoted When encountered in Suzail, large number of servants. At one time, almost entirely to the pursuit of knowl- Dimswart will often be found in the the sage’s five daughters lived at Manor edge now that his daughters are all company of Curate Winefiddle. Dimswart as well, but his youngest married and he and Leona can live at daughter, the last to be married, was Manor Dimswart in peace. Winefiddle recently wed to a Wyvernspur noble- Dimswart will always entertain par- ARMOR CLASS: 10 man. Now it is only on holidays and spe- ties of adventurers, however. The sage MOVE: 12” cial occasions that Dimswart’s studies finds that traveling companies are an Hit Points: 21 are interrupted by children. excellent source of information on far- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 The “Sage of Suzail,” as Dimswart is flung parts of the Realms. In exchange DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or known, is a short, good-natured, likable for any information, adventurers can spell man. Though he is getting stout as he expect to pay with information and an SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil approaches middle age, he is quick- exchange of services. And Dimswart is SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil witted. He has taken his retirement never lacking a task suitable for a party MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil from adventuring with the King’s Men, of adventurers. SIZE: M a Cormyrian adventuring company, Such was the case when the swords- ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good quite well. Though his hair is now woman Alias sought Dimswart’s assist- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil almost totally gray, Dimswart’s blue ance with the mysterious azure sigils Fourth-Level Human Cleric eyes still sparkle whenever he gets the embedded in her sword arm. In S:11 I:13 W:16 D:11 C:14 CH:13 chance to demonstrate his ready intelli- exchange for his help, the sage sent Ali- gence and wit. as, Dragonbait, her saurial companion, Weapons proficiencies: mace. Dimswart has sage knowledge of and Akabar Bel Akash, to rescue Olive Non-weapon proficiencies: herbs and minor knowledge of magical Ruskettle from the red dragon, Mis- Reading/writing, etiquette, fishing. items. The sage is far more interested in tinarperadnacles. Olive had been trav- Winefiddle is a curate in the Towers plants these days than in magic, how- eling to Manor Dimswart to play at a of Good Fortune, a huge temple to ever, and he can often be found rooting wedding when she was abducted by Tymora, in Suzail. The cleric retired to around the countryside in Suzail, look- the dragon. the temple after his adventuring com- ing for some rare species of herb or Before the Sage of Suzail dispenses pany, the King’s Men, disbanded several plant. any information, he will try to impress years ago. Another of the sage’s great loves is the adventurers with a demonstration Life in the temple has been very good gossip, or “public information,” as he of his powers of reasoning. Before the for Winefiddle, and he has grown quite calls it. Though never a gossip-monger party has a chance to introduce itself or fat in the years since his retirement himself, Dimswart keeps track of any explain its purpose in seeking from adventuring. His brown hair is rumor circulating through Suzail. He is Dimswart, the sage will rattle off as thinning, but like his companion an excellent source of information on much information as he can about the Dimswart, his brown eyes still reflect not only Suzail, but all of Cormyr and company. He can gather a great deal an active, happy soul. the lands nearby. When not pursuing about a party simply from their In fact, Winefiddle has found life in his studies of flora, Dimswart will be accents, visible scars, clothing, and the the temple in all ways superior to his found in local taverns or inns, usually in like, but he also has likely heard of the time as an adventurer. In addition to the company of his old friend Winefid- adventurers through rumor and story. being allowed to focus his attention on dle, drinking and listening to the latest Dimswart can usually surprise even the his duties as a cleric, and his favorite story about whatever anyone is most traveled adventurer with the hobbies — relaxation and drinking — inclined to discuss. amount of knowledge he has about Winefiddle has found that the closest Dimswart is such a good source of them, if they have traveled anywhere he has to come to monsters is in treat- information, he is an unofficial near Cormyr. ing the victims of their attacks. reporter for King Azoun IV Dimswart Players encountering Dimswart will The curate is a compassionate, caring and Azoun are old friends, and it is find him a very friendly, helpful man. man, however, and is very concerned even rumored that Azoun occasionally Unlike other sages of greater power about the well-being of those for whom adventured as a young cavalier with the and renown, like Elminster, Dimswart he cares. When encountered, King’s Men. Neither Dimswart nor is very accessible. And though he may Dimswart will be very interested in aid- Azoun have ever admitted that ever not be able to answer every question, ing adventurers in any way he can, as occurred. his knowledge of Cormyr and the lands

70 MINOR CHARACTERS long as he is not put in any danger. them to a table or gets their drinks of short, Durnan uses this organization to choice, but does not engage in idle chat- take care of pragmatic missions to Durnan the ter or hyperbole about the virtues of his which the paladins among the Lords food or vintages. He always has a quiet would never agree. Wanderer of smile for regular customers and old Moreover, the Red Sashes are theoret- Waterdeep friends. ically an independent organization will- In conference with the other Lords of ing to work for anyone, and thus are ARMOR CLASS: -3 Waterdeep, Durnan lets the others often contacted by other organizations MOVE: 12” speak and then, if he has anything to to work “against” the Lords, giving Hit Points: 72 + add, speaks quietly and to the point. Durnan a good grasp of the menaces to NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Motivations: Durnan hates unfair- the city and the Lords. DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 + 8 (battle-ax ness and injustice, but is tolerant of the Other notes: Durnan is the proprie- +2, gauntlets of ogre power) differing interests of others. As a Lord tor of the Yawning Portal inn in Water- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil of Waterdeep, he tries to maintain the deep. This inn contains a well-like shaft SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil atmosphere of tolerance and fairness leading down into the Undermountain, MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil for which the city is known. the subterranean ways under Water- SIZE: M Durnan’s tolerance does not extend deep. As such, he can be the person to ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good to most of the goblinoid races. Goblins, whom to talk about a mission to the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil kobolds, gnolls, orcs, and half-orcs are Undermountain. Many adventurers 12th-Level Human Fighter given little service and no acceptance at have used this shaft as the first step of S:15 I:13 W:14 D:16 C:15 CH:14 his tavern. He especially hates hobgob- their exploration of the Undermoun- lins, for reasons unknown, because he tain. Some of them have even returned Physical description: Durnan is refuses to talk about them. up the shaft. Others have come from an older man, still broad-shouldered Background notes: Friends specu- other exits. Many have just not and lively in step. His brunet hair is late that Durnan’s family was slain by returned. spotted with gray, and he is starting to hobgoblins when he was still a youth, Durnan’s connections with the Red bald. His usual garb consists of a bright- but this is not confirmed. He was a lone- Sashes and the Lords can frequently ly colored tunic and darker trews worn ly adventurer who traveled the North involve him with the characters’ activi- tucked into his fighting boots (“I’ve nev- extensively, moving from one adventur- ties in Waterdeep. Also, the Red Sashes er known a more comfortable pair of ing band to another before he met Mirt do not operate outside of Waterdeep, so boots.”) (see below), with whom he became fast Durnan might enlist the aid of the char- In combat, Durnan Equipment: friends. acters for a mission outside of the city uses a battle-ax +2, a dagger +1, wears When he decided to “retire” to Water- that can benefit the Red Sashes, either elfin chain mail +3, and carries a shield deep — actually he was just accompany by freeing or capturing some individual +2. He also has gauntlets of ogre ing Mirt because he did not want to who is in need, or simply bringing in power, and a ring of spell turning. adventure if Mirt was not — he was some wealth to help support the Red When he is not expecting combat, he asked by Mirt and Khelben to become Sashes’ expenses. wears the ring, and carries the dagger, one of the Lords of Waterdeep. He pro- Suggested adventures: Some a normal long sword, and wears his elf- vides one of the “voices of sanity” monster from the deeps wanders into in chain mail +3 under his clothes. He among the Lords, reining in the enthu- Undermountain and then wanders up always wears his boots of striding and siasms of the more fanatically Lawful the shaft and attacks the Yawning Por- springing. Good among the members. tal as the characters are having their Personality: Durnan is close- As a method of advancing the goals of evening meal. The characters deal with mouthed and prudent. Though he the Lords with less regard for the the monster, then accompany Durnan shouts in battle, Durnan does not get “means” espoused by Piergeiron and down the shaft to find out where the into arguments. He would rather Texter, he became “The One,” the leader monster came from and to stop further retreat into silence than argue. If he of the Red Sashes — an organization incursions. does not want to answer a question, he that thinks it is in opposition to the tyr- Durnan is, hopefully, impressed with simply looks at the questioner with a anny of the Lords of Waterdeep, but the characters and keeps them in mind. calm, expressionless face and says noth- actually works to provide for the good Then, he has a mission for the Red Sash- ing. of the city by capturing those the law es within the city — the daughter of one In general, he is affable but not talka- cannot or refuses to touch, and freeing of the magisters has been kidnapped to tive. When he greets guests at his inn, those who are imprisoned unjustly, influence his decisions concerning the he welcomes them simply and shows despite the demands of the law. In son of one of he noble families. The

71 MINOR CHARACTERS characters must get the girl out. If they to be tolerated by a true fighter. most aspiring heroes are learning their are successful, Durnan considers them very first parries with a sword, Entreri for other missions outside the city. “Catti-brie had seen this before, the was already hiring himself out as a mer- trademark methods of the finest cenary soldier whenever and wherever Artemis Entreri swordsman in all of Icewind Dale. The he could find the work. His reputation comparison to Drizzt Do’Urden was as a silent and deadly killer, as well as an ARMOR CLASS: -1 ( -5) inescapable; their grace and move- incredible swordsman, leaked out MOVE: 12” ments were so alike, with every part of through the underground of the city Hit Points: 80 their bodies working in harmonious and caught the attention of Pasha Pook, NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 accord. Yet they remained strikingly guildmaster of a powerful thieves’ DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type different, a polarity of morals that sub- organization. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Assassination tly altered the aura of the dance. Noted for his ability to surround him- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Never surprised “The drow ranger in battle was an self with the very best henchmen, it MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil instrument of beauty to behold, a per- didn’t take Pook long to understand the SIZE: M (5’4’) fect athlete pursuing his chosen course unlimited potential of the young man. ALIGNMENT: Neutral Evil of righteousness with unsurpassed fer- Accepting Pook’s offer to join the guild, PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil vor But Entreri was merely horrifying, Entreri studied under many of the fin- Seventh-Level Human Fighter a passionless murderer callously dis- est thieves in all the Realms, and com- 11th-Level Assassin posing of obstacles in his path.” bining his already considerable S:13 I:16 W:15 D:17 C:15 CH:14 — from Streams of Silver weapons’ proficiency with the lessons, he has become doubly deadly, a pure Artemis Entreri, the prime assassin, is So they achieve similar results despite assassin. possibly the most deadly killer in all the their paradoxical views of life. He still serves Pook — his present mis- Forgotten Realms. While not a big man, Entreri is every bit the equal of Drizzt sion is to hunt down Regis and recover barely 125 pounds, his abilities to dance in battle, even fighting with two weap- the ruby pendant — but only because his sabre through the defenses of any ons, a jewelled dagger and a cruel- he views his association with the opponent horrifies onlookers and edged sabre. His overall dexterity is 17, thieves as in his best interests. In truth, leaves his victim gaping in disbelief as but his eye-hand coordination is near- Artemis Entreri gives his allegiance to the last breaths flow from his body. perfect, and he suffers no “to hit” penal- no one, and has no loyalties beyond There is a strength about the man ties when fighting two-handed. what is best at any given moment for that defies physical abilities, an inner Furthermore, as if he wasn’t deadly him in his perverted pursuit to become promise of death that gives him the enough of his own accord, the assassin the ultimate killer, in his view, the ulti- upper hand in most encounters. Intimi- has outfitted himself with powerful mate victor in a world of unending con- dated opponents do not usually per- magic items over the years. His sabre is flict. form to the best of their abilities. a +1 sword of wounding and his jewel- Roleplaying tips: In his absolute Entreri’s build and movements are led dagger, his most prized possession, confidence, Entreri exudes an aura of similar to those of Drizzt Do’Urden, a +4 defender. He wears only leather strength that intimidates most of the though the assassin is slightly heavier armor and no shield, but his black cape people who meet him. The way he than the drow ranger. Together, they is actually a +4 cloak of protection, and holds himself, the way he walks, the set appear almost as negatives of each oth- the ring identifying him as a member of of his jaw, would give a PC the distinct er; Entreri’s skin, accustomed to light- Pook’s guild, a +2 ring of protection. impression that Entreri could kill him at less nights and shadows, is milky white Even without all the magic, though, any time, even if the character was of to Drizzt’s black; his hair is jet black to Entreri’s background and unwavering equal or higher level than the assassin. the drow’s stark white; and his eyes devotion to perfection make him formi- And this calm confidence and unshak- dark and sinister to the sparkling and dable. Like Regis, he grew up on the able composure keeps Entreri at his life-filled orbs of Drizzt. streets of Calimport, the bastard son of sharpest, at all times. The stark contrast between the two is a prostitute, alone and depending upon He is reserved and observant, speak- even more evident in their emotional his own resources for survival. His tac- ing little and weighing every single makeup. Drizzt is a passionate lover of tics, though, were much different from word carefully before uttering it. He is life and peace, a warrior who gains his the subtle cons and coercions of the so perceptive that rumors say he has strength through his emotional dedica- halfling. In the dark alleys of the city, the power to read minds. This is not tion to his cause. Entreri is passionless, Entreri learned the worth of a well- true, but Entreri can take a full mea- and would consider the drow’s gener- placed dagger. sure of a person in a single meeting, and ous nature a weakness, a fatal flaw, not And barely a teenager, an age when understands the motivations of the

72 MINOR CHARACTERS world around him well enough to fig- Personality: Finellen is gruff and duergar to the east. The dwarves ure out what course the person will aggressive and prickly about comments marched through deep caverns and likely take. In game terms, treat the concerning her size and beard. To her came up in Alaron Isle. They found the assassin with a degree of omniscience. mind, the only good defense is a strong duergar in greater than expected He will always be a step or two ahead of offense, and she values good fighters of strength and helped Tristan and his the others, anticipating, waiting, and is any breed. comrades escape the dungeons of the so alert to his surroundings that he is Motivations: Her main motivation high king. Then they went on to fight never surprised. is the protection of the dwarven race. duergar. It is imperative to keep in mind that She has little inclination to mix in the Eventually, they were driven above Entreri is not a wanton killer. He simply affairs of humans, though she likes the ground by the overwhelming numbers follows the most logical course to opportunities to fight that her associa- of the duergar, and once again merged achieve his present mission, be it hunt- tion with Tristan Kendrick provides. forces with Tristan and his rebels. They ing Regis or acquiring some magic item Mostly she feels that “if you see a played a strong role in the final battle that may have caught his eye. human coming — you see trouble com- that slew Cyndre and routed the zom- But if someone were to happen to get ing.” bies, sahuagin, duergar, and king’s Scar- in his way . . . Background notes: Finellen lived let Guard. Finellen was one of those as any other dwarf for 300 years, min- who cheered loudest when Tristan was Finellen ing, guarding the tribe, and killing proclaimed high king of the Moon- duergar and firbolgs. When the firbolgs shaes. ARMOR CLASS: 0 started mining coal and taking to the Then she and her remaining dwarven MOVE: 9” valley floor of Myrloch Vale, Finellen soldiers returned to the underworld to Hit Points: 90 was sent to discover why they were continue the fight against the now- DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 + 1 doing this entirely uncharacteristic depleted duergar and were not seen in SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil activity. However, she was captured. the final battle against Hobarth and SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Shortly thereafter, the population of Bhaal. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil her cell was doubled with the addition Other notes: Finellen is adventur- SIZE: M (4’) of the bard Keren. Weeks passed, then ous for a dwarf, and probably the most ALIGNMENT: Neutral the two prisoners were freed by Prince likely to discover the problems of the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Tristan Kendrick and his friends, who dwarves of Norland, who are losing a Ninth-Level Dwarf Fighter had come seeking Keren. war of extinction with the frost giants S:17 I:15 W:13 D:17 C:19 CH:14 Finellen fought beside her new of the Jotunspine Mountains. friends duing the escape, then left Since there are no dwarven caverns Physical description: Finellen is a them, refusing to have anything more connecting Gwynneth and Norland (as female dwarf, around 400 years old. to do with humans and their problems. there are between Gwynneth and She stands about 4’ high and has a fine However, when she got back to her Alaron), she might be a handy NPC to bristling blonde beard that drops past caves, she discovered that the firbolgs use to recruit an adventuring band to her beltline and an unruly mass of hair were aggravating the dwarves, and the help her fellow dwarves of Norland. atop her rounded head. Like most dwarves had decided to take action The adventurers she would want dwarves, Finellen has a stocky body, after all. would be dwarves, but her compatriots short legs, long arms, broad and sturdy Leading a force of 50 dwarves, Finel- in Myrloch Vale are not interested in shoulders, and surprisingly large feet. len found her new battle comrades such a long trek in a human-built boat. Between her beard and body type, it is again as they were about to meet Grun- If she can’t find outlander dwarves, she difficult to tell that she is female until narch’s Northmen and the remains of has sufficient worldliness to enlist you hear her voice, which is equivalent the firbolgs who had imprisoned her humans and even, perhaps, elves. to a human woman’s contralto. before. The dwarves helped the Finellen is a scrapper. Given any sort Equipment: When traveling or humans defeat the raiders and let the of weapon, she will tangle with oppo- scouting the actions of firbolgs, Finellen Ffolk refugees get through to western nents six times her size without a sec- wears leather armor and carries a Corwell. Then they aided the humans ond thought. With her advanced age battle-ax and dagger. If she knows she is in the defense of Caer Corwell, saving and experience outside the dwarven going into combat, she wears darkened the day on at least two occasions, at people, she finds herself more and plate mail armor and uses a short- great loss of dwarven life. more in positions of authority among hafted battle-ax two-handed. She Sometime afterward, Finellen was her people. When it is time to send out always carries a long dagger, which she given another force of dwarves and an expeditionary force, the dwarven wields with great effect. sent to track down incursions of the king singles out Finellen and dwarven

73 MINOR CHARACTERS warriors clamor to serve under her. guardian creatures in his house. piyan lived in Waterdeep and told the This both gratifies and chafes her. She At least once a year, the city watch is story.) This has never been confirmed prefers the freedom of charging head- called in to remove some thief who by Kappiyan, who occasionally lets slip long into a foe, but has too much of a thought to rob the helpless old man of references to the Dragon Sea area, but sense of responsibility to lead her fol- his potions. Frequently after such an does not otherwise talk about his pre- lowers in helpless charges. So she event, Kappiyan is seen visiting the pur- vious life. hangs back, directs her forces, and only veyors of exotic creatures and magical However, it is obvious that, before joins the front line when they are com- traps for additions to his defenses. coming to Waterdeep, he did adventure mitted and they need her ax more than Personality: Kappiyan is affable to extensively. He knows very little about they need her direction. She much pre- other magic-users who want to consult the conditions of the North, so his fers acting as an independent scout or with him about potions. He will also sell adventuring must have taken place in emissary. potions (using the prices shown in the the Southern Realms. DMG), but he becomes testy if contin- Currently Kappiyan lives in Water- Kappiyan ually asked for potions. “I am not run- deep on Anchoret’s Court among the ning a potion shop,” is his usual honest, if poor, working men of Water- Flurmastyr of response when asked too often. deep. He has lived there for more than Waterdeep Characters coming to Kappiyan for 50 years, always looking much the potions undergo rigorous quizzing same as he does today. His house is a ARMOR CLASS: 2 about how the potion is planned to be former “grand residence” (see FR1, MOVE: 12” used. Purchasers are also asked to give WATERDEEP AND THE NORTH), but Hit Points: 33 an account later about the efficacy of every room in this palatial establish- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 the potion. Those who do not supply ment, built when the Southern Ward DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d4 such a report or give inadequate was a bit higher class than it is now, is SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use reports are less likely to be sold future full of alchemical equipment. The great SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil potions. room has been turned into a zoo full of MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Also, Kappiyan had many years of exotic animals that supply components SIZE: M experience as an adventurer before for the various potions, most of the bed- ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good retiring to his current researches. He rooms are full of shelves of potion PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil has a good eye for what is possible for a ingredients or scrolls and books that list 11th-Level Human Magic-User group, and will refuse potions to people esoteric formulations. S:10 I:18 W:13 D:16 C:14 CH:16 he does not feel will use them properly. There are three servants, one of Commonly remembered spells: Kappiyan sometimes provides free whose sole duty is maintenance of the • First-level — Detect magic, identify, potions for a good cause, and has been animals, one of whom is both cook and read magic, write. called on by the Lords of Waterdeep for cleaner, and one of whom is a supply • Second-level — Continual light, such upon occasion. However, he is just clerk who maintains the other alchemy locate object, preserve. as testy toward the mighty Lords as he supplies. At this time, Kappiyan has no • Third-level Material, protection — is toward beginning adventurers. apprentices, though he has had some in from evil 10’ radius. Motivations: Nowadays, Kappiyan the past. One of these (the most recent) • Fourth-level — Plant growth, is primarily interested in research, died while trying one of Kappiyan’s var- remove curse. which he finances by selling potions. He iant potions. • Fifth-level Fabricate, extension — is always interested in trying new ver- Other notes: PCs intent on robbing II. sions of established potions in an him should leave many of their fellows Physical description: Kappiyan is attempt to extend their longevity, or behind, fallen to his defenses. He is a distinguished looking, tall, thin, white- change the effects slightly. He is never known to employ both traps and bearded wizard. He is always wearing a satisfied with the current version of strange monsters in the defense of his gray robe that is never stained or dirty, any potion. There must be some way to house. Questioning former servants despite Kappiyan’s usual activities. improve it. reveals that a new servant must spend a Equipment: Kappiyan always Background notes: Kappiyan month learning the traps and getting wears a gray robe of the arch-magi, a came to Waterdeep from the South. He acquainted with the monsters before ring of wizardry (first-level spells), and is believed to have originally lived in he can be allowed to work alone in the a ring of protection +1. His house, Cormyr, and left after a philosophical house. The traps are changed every which he rarely leaves, always has dispute with Vangerdahast. (This story couple of years, and the monsters fre- many potions, which he makes. There comes from merchants from the quently die and are replaced. are a homonculous and many magical Dragon Sea area who learned that Kap- When characters request potions

74 MINOR CHARACTERS from Kappiyan, the old mage will usu- Motivations: Grunnarch is a proto- At the peak of his power, Grunnarch ally suggest they try one of his new typical Northman. His greatest joy is joined with his fellow Northman kings potions, as he is always trying to simu- combat, and his second greatest joy is to attempt to ravage Corwell. The king late the effect of other magical items, being on the sea in a long ship, on his of Oman, Thelgar Ironhand, assembled such as gauntlets of ogre power or a way to a combat. However, he got his all the the Northmen and used them in a ring of spell turning. He also tries to cre- fill of slaughter when following the master plan to utterly destroy the king- ate potions that allow the user to cast a leadership of the disguised Kazgaroth, dom of Corwell. What none of the magic-user spell. He offers any of these and is somewhat more temperate in his Northmen realized was that Thelgar potions at a nominal price. appetite for action now. Whether this Ironhand was dead, and his body taken These potions have a variable chance attitude will continue is impossible to over by Kazgaroth. of actually working. DMs should adjust say. By the time Kazgaroth finally the chance of working to meet the situ- Grunnarch likes a fight against a wor- revealed himself in the heat of the final ation, in the spirit of adventure litera- thy foe. General slaughter can nauseate stages of the siege of Caer Corwell, ture. him. Fighting natural foes like beasts Grunnarch was the only one of the and weather eventually drags him Northman kings still alive. He led his Grunnarch the Red down. panicked, routed forces from the scene In general, Grunnarch is a gambling and is now the main leader of the ARMOR CLASS: 1 man, and fearless against normal foes. Northmen of the Moonshaes. MOVE: 9” However, he knows when he must flee With his onetime opponent, Tristan, Hit Points: 90 before a superior foe, and keeps the the high king of the Ffolk of the Moon- NO, OF ATTACKS: 1 well-being of his people uppermost in shaes, Grunnarch forged the Moon- DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 + 1 his mind. Of course, for a great deal of shaes into a unified nation, with SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil his reign, the well-being of his fighting Northmen and Ffolk working together SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil followers involved getting them into toward a new glory for the islands. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil raids and fights at every opportunity. Other notes: DMs running a Moon- SIZE: M He did not have to worry about retalia- shae Isles campaign can use Grunnarch ALIGNMENT: Neutral tion against his women and children as the leader for any Northmen encoun- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil because the Ffolk did not fight that way. ter, as Grunnarch spends as much time 14th-Level Human Fighter But when he realized that the alliance as he can away from his duties and on S:16 I:15 W:14 D:17 C:16 CH:18 of Bhaal’s priest and the sahuagin was a the seas in his long ship. Until the time threat to all residents of the Moon- of the events of DARKWALKER ON Physical description: Grun- shaes, he understood the benefits an MOONSHAE, Grunnarch also led the narch’s head is framed by flowing red alliance with the Ffolk, and he and Tris- only cavalry force among the hair and beard. He stands only average tan forged the first united government Northmen, a select group of 100 horse- height, but seems much larger. There is of the Moonshaes since the Northmen men called the Bloodriders. These were an undefinable quality to the way he first arrived so many hundreds of years taken over by Kazgaroth and their moves and talks that communicates his ago. game statistics can be found in the authority. Background notes: Grunnarch is write-up for that monster. Equipment: Grunnarch uses a the king of Norland, the westernmost If player character dwarves have battle-ax one-handed, warding off kingdom of the Northmen in the Moon- learned about the beleagured dwarves blows with a shield in the other hand. shaes. Norland is one large island with a in the Jotunhammer Mountains (see He wears chain mail, giving him a good wide expanse of pine forest and lakes FR2, MOONSHAE), Grunnarch is the armor class when combined with his protected from the storms of the Track- man with whom they will have to deal high Dexterity. less Sea by the Jotunhammer Mountain to get safe conduct into the mountains Personality: Grunnarch rules his range. to try to save their kinsmen. However, people with an iron hand, but he is Grunnarch rules a dozen lesser kings considering the tolerant relationship loved by his followers for his concern whose domains make up the settled between the Northmen and the frost for their welfare and ready smile and portions of Norland along the eastern giants who are oppressing the dwarves, wit. coast of that island. getting that safe conduct may be very There are stronger men among his After gaining his kingship, Grun- difficult. followers, but his people realize that in narch consolidated his rule and gained The Northmen propitiate the frost Grunnarch they not only have a good a reputation as the second greatest of giants with gifts and leave them strictly war and raiding fighter, but a wise lead- the kings of the Northmen in the Moon- alone. They are not interested in having er. shaes. adventurers interfere with this peace-

75 MINOR CHARACTERS ful arrangement. He is a painter, a lover of art, and con- cessful experiment, and others have Grunnarch learned his battlefield siders his magic as another extension of lost their perspective on reality to a skills by raiding the Ffolk, who tend to his creativity. In his magic, he is a crafts- world of unprovable and incompre- fight in a clear field in one line. Thus, man as surely as any dwarven smith. hensible theories. Therefore, when his best position as a leader is in the While the dwarf pounds the metal into Malchor, a relatively straightforward front rank, where he can act as an inspi- beautiful objects, Malchor tunes his mage, emerged to become a charter ration to his men and strike the most magical skills into creations of wonder member of the Company of Crazed blows. However, the raid led by and power. Included among his long list Venturers, a wild band of young heroes Kazgaroth in Thelgar’s body and the of magical creations are a staff of the dashing through the northern wilder- siege of Caer Corwell taught him some magi, rings of warmth, and rings of ness like a runaway tornado, many more lessons in military tactics, and he feather falling. speculated that he was trying to escape is less likely to lead his men headlong When traveling, Malchor, usually the unsteady environment of his birth- into a charge now. He watches the ter- astride a griffon, always brings his staff place. rain and uses his troops as cleverly as of the magi, a +3 ring of protection, That wasn’t completely true. Malchor one can use a gang of semi-berserkers. bracers of defense AC6, and a lurker did see limitations to life in Longsaddle. cloak, as well as several rings of His family’s singular line of reasoning Malchor Harpell warmth and feather falling which he (or unreasoning) had begun to stagnate might give to a helpful adventurer or for the lack of influx of new ideas and a ARMOR CLASS: 3 use as barter for some new spell or new way of approaching the use of MOVE: 12” arcane tome. His spell choice also magic. He felt that he would achieve his Hit Points: 52 reflects both his love of learning and potential only if he left, for a while, and NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 the adventuresome side, typically con- saw the world from a fresh perspective. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or sisting of a balanced blend of He was the longest running member spell divination-type spells such as read mag- of the Company of Crazed Venturers, SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use ic and legend lore, and evocations, such then took up study under Khelben SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil as Bigby’s grasping hand and lightning “Blackstaff” Arunsun. After long years MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil bolt. His favorite spells are the various and rising to the title of arch-mage, Mal- SIZE: M (6’1”) Bigby’s hand maneuvers, especially char returned to Longsaddle to share ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good Bigby’s crushing hand, which does some of his experiences with his kin. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil exceptionally well as an interrogation Then, needing a place of study far 18th-Level Magic-User tool. Legend lore also strikes a chord in removed from the constant explosions S:14 I:18 W:15 D:14 C:15 CH:18 his heart, especially when it reveals and interruptions of the experiments at some knowledge long lost to the world. the Ivy Mansion, Malchor traveled a The most powerful of the magic- Everytime Malchor casts it, he tingles in half-a-day’s ride to the west, to the edge using Harpell family of Longsaddle, anticipation of the mysteries he may be of Neverwinter Woods, and built the Malchor Harpell is also the only one uncovering. Tower of Twilight, his finest creation. who has ever ventured out from As an arch-mage, Malchor certainly Malchor rarely leaves his tower now, Longsaddle for any length of time. He is has an ample day-to-day spell selection preferring the solitude of magical a true thinker, a lover of the secrets of to remain a formidable adventurer and study. His present project involves the the universe, and combines that with an inquisitive student of the world. So enhancement of stone guardians, an adventuresome spirit. dedicated to his craft, his spellbooks are golem-like creations that serve as Unlike most wizards who perfect their overfilled with spells that most mages guards in his tower. Malchor is a master craft well enough to earn the title of arch- have never even heard of. And with his at creating them, but is convinced that mage, Malchor is a fine physical specimen own research and his family constantly the art can be improved. as well. Tall and straight, he could have working on new spells, Malchor’s books Sometimes Malchor’s adventuresome been successful at many adventuring continue to swell. side resurfaces and he’ll take to the professions. But there is no doubt that he Malchor was born in the Ivy Mansion road for a short, whirlwind dash, but chose right in undertaking a career as a on Harpell Hill in Longsaddle, the small inevitably he finds his way back to the magic-user. His attitude is that of the true hamlet west of Luskan and Waterdeep. tower before the change of a single sea- wizard. While Dendybar and other The town is principally known as the son. power-hungry mages seek knowledge home of the Harpells, an extraordinary Also, again on a whim of the complex for the sake of personal strength, Mal- family of magic-users experimenting on mage’s many moods, Malchor might char seeks knowledge simply for the sake the edge of reason and caution. Many a take a younger mage under his tute- of learning. Harpell has fallen victim to an unsuc- lage. Though it is unlikely that any stu-

76 MINOR CHARACTERS

dent will remain with Malchor for more spell, see other notes). devoted priest of Bhaal, came from than a year or two, the young mage will • Third-level — Animate dead, create Amn to the Moonshaes. Bhaal realized certainly be better off for the experi- food and water decay (new spell, that while Kazgaroth made Bhaal’s ence. particular to Bhaal, see other presence felt in the islands, the monster For he will have witnessed one of the notes). was not a priest, and could not convert true geniuses of the Forgotten Realms • Fourth-level — nil. anyone to his cause and worship, at work, a man of insight and foresight, • Fifth-level — Air walk, control except covertly and briefly. of daring and reason, and a true lover weather, wound (another spell Once in the isles, Hobarth discovered of the art of magic use. unique to Bhaal, see other notes). Cyndre was already starting his own Roleplaying tips: For all of his • Sixth-level — Aerial servant, blade master plan for dominion over the Isles. hermit-like existence in the Tower of barrier. The two joined in a holy (in Bhaal’s eyes, Twilight, Malchor Harpell is generally • Seventh-level — Earthquake. anyway) alliance to destroy the power friendly and outgoing to new acquaint- Physical description: Hobarth is of the druids, each intending to destroy ances. He has no reason not to trust grotesquely fat; rolls of fat sag around the other when their conquest was anyone, for he knows that he is well his neck and tiny eyes gleam from completed. equipped to defend himself if the need beneath low, sinister brows and over- Then Kazgaroth, heartened because arises. bloated cheeks. Several large warts — Bhaal had so reduced the power of the He is always willing to help out a par- punishments from Bhaal for moments Goddess, made his own bid to destroy ty which travels with good intentions, when he had been less than devout — Corwell (See DARKWALKER ON and if Malchor gets involved in an mar his nose. MOONSHAE). Bhaal stood aside to let adventure, hold on to your helmets! He He usually wears his holy robes, his avatar make his bid for conquest. has been known to level a mountain of which conceal the suit of chain mail he When Kazgaroth failed, Hobarth goblin tunnels and drain a lake that prudently wears underneath. moved the alliance to avenge him. housed a lizard man lair. Overkill is the Equipment: When Hobarth came to While Cyndre attempted to destroy key word here. Corwell, he was drawn to the Heart of Tristan on Alaron, Hobarth journeyed As for training younger mages, Mal- Kazgaroth. This is the stone-like black to Gwynneth, where he found the char is quick to distinguish between a heart of the avatar — all that is left after Heart of Kazgaroth and used it to ani- lover of learning and a lover of power. Tristan slew him. The Heart of mate an army of undead. He led this The former is likely to gain much from Kazgaroth acts as a direct channel to army to attack Myrloch Vale, the center the arch-mage, the latter is likely to get Bhaal. It confers no further spells on its of the Goddess’ power, for the purpose a farewell handshake, complete with a wielder, who must be a priest of Bhaal, of destroying it and also securing kick in the rump! but it allows the priest to use any spell Robyn of Corwell to sacrifice to Bhaal. without forgetting it. Hobarth succeeded in his first pur- Hobarth of Bhaal The stone calls appropriate clerics to pose, but Robyn got away to join Tristan itself if it is not in the right hands. All in Alaron and help him defeat Cyndre ARMOR CLASS: 2 plant life and small animal life within and the high king. MOVE: 13” 15’ of the stone withers and dies within Hobarth followed his god’s dictates to Hit Points: 75 a day. If Bhaal wishes to give specific destroy Myrloch Vale and confronted NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 commands to his priest, the stone Tristan and his allies there on the bare DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6 + 1 implants images of the command in the bones of the Vale in the final battle, SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use priest’s mind. where Bhaal himself came to confront SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Personality: Hobarth is mean, pet- his antagonists. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ty, manipulative, and vicious. He has a Other notes: SIZE: M short temper when thwarted that he ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil tries to control. He has piggish personal Attraction (alteration) PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil habits and loves to eat. Level: 2 15th-Level Human Cleric Motivations: Like most priests of Components: V,S,M S:16 I:15 W:18 D:15 C:16 CH:13 the death god, Hobarth fears Bhaal and Range: touch propitiates him at every chance. He Casting Time: 1 round Commonly remembered spells: hates the sea. Next to the sea, he hates Duration: 1 hour/level • First-level — Ceremony, command, dogs. His loves are the exercise of Saving Throw: Neg. detect magic, purify food and power over people and the dealing of Area of Effect: 1 target drink. death. • Second-level — Attraction (new Background notes: Hobarth, a

77 MINOR CHARACTERS

Explanation/description: This acts as does the damage of a cause serious to him at the time. His greatest pleasure a combination of the magical spell wounds spell at the given range. in in exhibiting his ability, whether as charm person and the clerical remove strategist or a fighter — a bold decision fear and is much used by clerics of Jinchin masterfully made fills him with the Bhaal because of their ambient air of same heady feelings others might asso- death. It also has aspects of the magical MOVE: 12” ciate with passion or love. spell friends. The spell replaces any Hit Points: 86 Jinchin’s history: Once a powerful negative emotions the target has DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or counselor to the Imperial Court, the toward the user with positive emotions. spell monk Jinchin (then known by the his Repulsion becomes attraction, hatred SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use clan name of Ieyasu Sabanada) was the becomes love, etc. It is reversible, as dis- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil eldest son of a major samurai family. dain and can be used in that fashion to MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil But soon after the death of his father, he cause the target to replace all positive SIZE: M and his elder brothers fell to fighting feelings concerning a named target PSIONIC ABILTIY: Nil each other. Stripped of his titles and (which can be the caster if he really 13th-Level Human Samurai ranks, Ieyasu retired to the distant Tem- wants someone to despise him) with Sixth-Level Shukenja ple of Kagaii, renouncing his old name their opposites. A saving throw against S:18 I:17 W:9 D:15 C:12 CH:14 for the name Jinchin, and taking up the this spell has modifiers of +1 through monk’s robes of office. +5 if the emotions to be changed are Proficiencies: Calligraphy, eti- Jinchin’s original goal was merely to really intense. As such, it is much more quette, horsemanship, reading/writing, depose his brothers and once again rule useful as a ploy to make a date with a falconry, heraldry, administration. the Sabanada Clan. But as he stayed barmaid (who is motivated to please Commonly used spells: Levitate, long years at the temple, increasing his customers, anyway) than it is to convert deflection, aid, trance, dream sight, cas- mastery of the shukenja’s arts, his ambi- the feelings of one’s enemies. tigate, abjure, speak with dead, imunity tions grew, until at last, nothing would to weapons, possess, raise dead. do but complete dominion over the Decay (Alteration) He was destruction incarnate. Was he lands of Kozakura. evil? Or was he merely a victim of a To this end, Jinchin began to gather to Level: 3 darker power? himself a great army — first, of discon- Components: V,S,M Physical Description: He is a tented monks within the temple, then Range: Touch huge, squat man (nearly 250 pounds), later, rebellious samurai and ronin cir- Casting Time: 1 round rippling with muscle and suppressed culating around the Emperor’s Court. Duration: Permanent power. His clothes are the simple red As his army grew, it began to attract Saving Throw: None robes of the monk, but his teeth are even less savory recruits: monsterous Area of Effect: 1 cubic foot/level blacked and his eyebrows shaven to oni, tengu, and legions of undead show that he is not unaware of courtly gakken. Explanation/description: This spell graces. His tread is menacingly light — The Earth Spider: In his quest for acts to accelerate the aging of any arti- subtle destructive power lightly reined absolute power, Jinchin was willing to fact. For every hour that passes, the by an iron will. deal with the darkest of spirits. The object decays a day. Equally, any abra- Personality: Brilliant, cold, and cal- most feared of these was the infamous sion or strain to the article is increased culating, Jinchin is a consummate strat- Earth Spider. This terrible demon (once twentyfold. egist. A master swordsman, far greater defeated by a great ancestor of the than either Doin Sanehiro or Prince Emperor) held a special hatred of the Wound Gisen, he is capable of besting any oppo- Imperial Throne and all it symbolized. nent. He has also mastered many of the Coming to Jinchin in his dreams, it (Necromantic) arts of the shukenja, turning these to offered him all of its power, if the evil Level: 5 his own evil designs, and making him monk would in turn become the Earth Components: V,S an extremely deadly foe in all aspects. Spider’s avatar. The unholy alliance was Range: 12” Yet, he never kills needlessly. Mercy and consummated in blood, and the now Casting Time: 5 segments murder are one the same to him, as unstoppable Jinchin poured forth his Duration: Permanent long as they serve a greater plan. demonic legions upon the land. Saving Throw: Neg. Motivations: Emotion rarely if ever It was in one of these battles that Jin- Area of Effect: 1 target affects Jinchin’s judgment. He can be a chin first encountered Doin Sanehiro, charming host or a ruthless killer, then tactical adviser for the Shuramura Explanation/description: This spell depending on which face is more useful Clan. Sanehiro was merely another

78 MINOR CHARACTERS samurai, until his strategies at the battle Kazgaroth 1” or less. A side effect of this charm is of Kiroshina threw back five of Jin- that the victim must roll a successful chin’s six attacks. On the sixth assault, FREQUENCY: Unique saving throw vs. spell each week or per- Jinchin dispatched one of his most pow- NO. APPEARING: 1 manently lose a point of Charisma (to a erful oni to personally deal with Sane- ARMOR CLASS: 0 minimum of 3). Once per week it can hiro. Thinking the matter ended, he MOVE: 12” cast a death spell at a character of sev- was somewhat irritated to find Sane- HIT DICE: 16 enth level or lower. hiro alive after the battle and still a via- Hit Points: 120 The beast has a unique ability to per- ble opponent. At each step of his % IN LAIR: 0 form a corrupted type of mass charm orderly plan of conquest, Jinchin found TREASURE TYPE: See below spell, creating for itself a band of fanati- himself blocked by Sanehiro, so that NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 cally loyal undead troops known as eventually killing the samurai became DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d12/1d12/3d10 Blood Warriors. A unit of soldiers, up to an obsession (or as close to an obsession SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below 500 individuals, can be thus corrupted as Jinchin would allow himself). SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below as long as the unit has a strong com- Jinchin’s hatred of Sanehiro has MAGIC RESISTANCE: 60% mander to serve as the beast’s lieuten- grown even greater, as his dark master INTELLIGENCE: High ant. The game stats of the Blood (the Earth Spider), will not let the monk ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Evil Warriors follow this description. slay the “Monkey” out of hand. As a SIZE: L (18’ tall) Kazgaroth draws power from the price for gaining the demon spider’s PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Goddess of the Moonshae Isles herself powers, Jinchin has been forced to use and thus chooses as a resting place a Sanehiro/Monkey as a pawn with The beast is a formidable foe in com- Moonwell (see FR2, MOONSHAE) that which to capture the willow spirit bat, yet whenever possible, it seeks to has been polluted or otherwise dese- Onoye. do battle through shrewdness and crated. The beast is the lord of the fir- Dungeon Master’s information: trickery rather than straightforward bolgs (see MOONSHAE) and will often It is rare that an adventuring party will melee. When fighting in its true form, order a band of these giants to guard its encounter Jinchin on the road; peons Kazgaroth attacks with its clutching well, and perhaps to pollute it, while it on the level of player characters will foreclaws and vicious bite. It can, at the rests and gains power. If Kazgaroth is always encounter one of Jinchin’s many same time, swing its tail around to slain by any means other than the minions. However, should the adven- strike a foe from behind for 1d6 points Sword of Cymrych Hugh, it will return turers in some way thwart Jinchin, it is of damage. A person thus struck must within 3d6 years. If this sword is used likely that they will come to his atten- make a Dexterity Check with a -5 pen- to kill it, and the remains of the beast tion. Attacks by his monstrous allies alty, or be knocked from his feet. He are burned to ashes, it is rumored that will follow. Should the players survive can do nothing the next round except it can be destroyed permanently. these encounters, Jinchin may actually stand. Apparently this happened when lead a force against them himself, hop- Kazgaroth can only be struck by mag- Prince Tristan Kendrick slew the beast, ing to capture and subvert them to his ical weapons of +2 or greater enchant- but a part of its heart survived the con- side. ment. Its magical resistance applies to flagration, and it may yet grow again. There is one exception to this. Should all magic-user and clerical spells, except Physical description: Kazgaroth the players already be allied with for those neutral clerics whose powers looks like a tyrannosaurus rex with Sanehiro/Monkey or one of his friends, are based on preservation of the bal- forelimbs that, while still short, actually Jinchin will take very special notice of ance of nature. match the rest of its body. It can run on them. They will be singled out for Kazgaroth can change shape at will, all fours if it pleases, but usually travels attacks from his most powerful forces. shrinking to as small as halfling size. It on its hind legs. It has a broad, scaly Should the adventurers escape their can assume the exact form of a creature body, and drools mildly acidic saliva fates, Jinchin will personally seek them (including a human or other intelligent from widespread jaws. Its feet are heav- out for destruction! creature) it has eaten. It cannot assume ily clawed, and poisoned spikes project Jinchin has two aspects; that of his a form larger than its own — but then it from its knees and elbows. human self (a powerful samurai/ doesn’t really need to. It has a number It, and most of its creations, such as shukenja double class), and the aspect of special abilities. the Blood Warriors (or Bloodriders) of an avatar of the Earth Spider. As an The beast can cause lycanthropy with have hot fiery eyes. This continues in avatar, Jinchin has access to any or all of its bite, if it chooses to do so. It can whatever form it assumes unless it very the spells of the demon creature, detect magic and detect invisibility in a consciously controls itself. although he may not use its bite and 24” radius at will. It can cast a perma- Personality: Kazgaroth is evil and poison attacks. nent charm upon a victim at a range of degradation incarnate. When it has a

79 MINOR CHARACTERS foe helpless it gloats, and even when Proficiencies: Calligraphy, eti- Years of fighting pitched battles in des- masquerading as human it is cold and quette, horsemanship, reading/writing, perate circumstances have taught him merciless and may kill someone on a kung fu, poetry. the errors in his thinking. whim. There are some things so fair to look The legend of the princess: Des- Motivations: In the pantheon of the upon, that they disguise their true tined to become a third son in the hotly Realms, the beast is manifested as an power and dangerousness. These are contested T’u Lung succession, Kuang’s aspect of Malar, the Beastlord. On the the poisonous dagger shell of the Celes- plans were severely altered during a Moonshaes, however, this aspect has a tial Sea, the coral banded serpent of the trading trip to the islands. While travel- specific purpose: the disruption of The Great Desert. And then, there is Prince ing as a trader captain (Kuang is inordi- Balance. Gisen of T’u Lung. nately fond of elaborate disquises), he Background notes: The origins of A thousand years of culture and wis- chanced to rescue a young woman who Kazgaroth lurk in the past, nearly as dom have culminated in the young had been kidnapped by pirates. It was distant as those of the Goddess of the Prince Gisen — as he, proud of his lin- only much later, after the two young Moonshae Isles herself. eage and history, would be the first to people had fallen deeply in love, that Over the years, it has arisen many tell you. Or would, were he not con- Kuang discovered his “princess” was times to upset The Balance and create stantly engaged in a life and death indeed just that — the youngest daugh- havoc. Most recently, it attempted to struggle to survive against impossible ter, in fact, of the powerful emperor of combine the firbolgs and Northmen odds. This is one reason why he has Shou Lung. As their two nations had into a conquering army set on destroy- chosen to hide his illustrious lineage been embroiled in a civil war for the ing all the realms of the Ffolk on the behind the simple name of a traveling last two centuries, the lovers knew Moonshaes. However, despite his dep- mendicant called Kuang. their affair was doomed — yet, under redations, Prince Tristan Kendrick and A young man of 22, Kuang/Gisen the sheltering hand of the divine Kwan his friends Robyn the druid, Daryth of stands out even among the many peo- Yang (mistress of lovers and compas- Calimshan, Keren the harper, Gavin the ples of the Lands of Men. He is tall, well- sion), they still attempted to secretly Smith, Finellen the dwarf, Brigit the built, and has the face and features that meet whenever possible. elven knight, and Pawldo the halfling young women dream of and scholars This “love under the sword” came to managed to stop him and slay him with talk of in their histories. With his grand an abrupt end when the traveling min- the Sword of Crymrych Hugh, at the and flowing motions, his long hair tied strel Tam Nong Hikong came to the cost of Keren and Gavin’s lives. back in the fashionable style of the East- Shou Court singing a new tale of kid- Other notes: The Blood Warriors ern Court, his dark, flashing eyes and napped princesses, heroic princes, and (or Bloodriders) are a type of undead saturnine smile, he might well be con- forbidden love. While Hikong’s new tale soldier corrupted from normal human sidered too pretty to be taken seriously. was a popular success, it didn’t take warriors by Kazgaroth’s power. They As his many adversaries have discov- long for the Shou emperor to deduce are fanatically loyal, never check ered far too late, this is a fatal miscalcu- the participants and take action. The lit- morale, and rejoice in killing. The beast lation. tle princess was packed off to an can create one such unit each time it The T’u Lung court is a hotbed of unknown destination, and her enraged emerges from hibernation to stalk the duels, assassination, and intrigue, and it eldest brother set assassins upon Prince land. is in this arena that Kuang/Gisen sur- Gisen to destroy him for the affront. Further information on this troop of vived to manhood. As a child of 5, the Fleeing the agents of the most power- undead can be found in FR2, MOON- innate savagery of his family line sur- ful nation under heaven, Kuang knows SHAE. faced when he single-handedly killed an he lacks the power to directly oppose assassin with his own knife. Trained in his enemies. Even if he should win the Kuang (Prince Gisen) the best dojos of both the Shou and T’u Southern throne (and with two power- courts, he has grown to be a master of ful brothers opposing him, this is MOVE: 12” the blade, as well as of various more doubtful), the forces of T’u Lung would Hit Points: 66 obscure weapons, including the much be unable to prevail against Shou DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type dreaded kung fu of the Eastern lands. Lung’s mighty armies. For now, Kuang SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below Unlike his good friend Doin Sanehiro, travels through Kozakura and Wa, SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Kuang’s skill is that of the formal duel- seeking allies and magics which will MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ist. This originally made him somewhat give him some advantage in his struggle SIZE: M naive concerning battlefield combat, as to win his princess. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil he mistakenly believed his opponent Wisdom isn’t Kuang’s strong point — Seventh-Level Human Kensai would follow the same rules of honor headstrong, impulsive, and charis- S:16 I:16 W:10 D:17 C:14 CH:17 and decorum in which he was trained. matic, he depends on luck and wit to get

80 MINOR CHARACTERS him out of most scrapes, and his sword swords, forged on the day of the two Lhaeo skills to carry him through when all else half-brothers’ birth. The second sword fails. While his goal is etched in his is known as the Shimmering Blade of ARMOR CLASS: 10 mind, his methods are sketchily out- Shin Ginsen. Both weapons are +3 long MOVE: 12” lined, and his plans even worse. swords in the butterfly-tipped Shou Hit Points: 30 Kuang is very clever, quick-witted, style, and have the following powers: NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 and fanciful. His facility for disguise, vorpal blade, luck blade, illusion and DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon learned from his elderly tutor, allows charm x 3 per day. However, when SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil him to pass safely where most would drawn in the presence of the matching SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil fear to tread. His biggest problem is his blade, the swords become mere +3 MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil natural arrogance — a prince of an blades, unable to tap into their greater SIZE: M arrogant nation, descended from the powers. The two blades were on dis- ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good sea kings of Hai-Yuan, he finds it hard to play in the respective capitals of Shou PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil swallow his pride in difficult situations. and T’u Lung, until 10 years ago, when Second-Level Human Fighter Currently, Kuang/Prince Gisen is in both mysteriously vanished. S:15 I:18 W:16 D:17 C:14 CH:11 the guise of a young physician from the As legend has it, each of the twin Eastern lands; talented with herbs and blades is self aware, and that upon the A green-eyed man with pale brown healing lore (or at least enough to get death of each half-brother, his soul was hair who looks to be in his mid-20s, by: DMs may grant Kuang up to second- captured and contained within his Lhaeo has aged well. His actual age is level clerical ability as part of his guise). choice of weapon. The Floating Blade is not well known. When he lets his true He wears flashy but slightly tattered said to contain the spirit of the Shou personality be seen, he is a quietly con- clothes, and carries a bag of herbs and Emperor Shin Lu, and that his soul fidant man possessing a keen mind and cures. A small monkey (a symbol of his manifests itself as purity and light, a very dry sense of humor. Lhaeo see a calling) rides his shoulder — he never teaching the blade’s owner the way of lot and says very little, a trait that fails to make comparisons between his peace and silent power. The Shimmer- Elminster values greatly, calling him pet and Doin Sanehiro’s unfortunate ing Blade of Shin Gisen manifests the “the very soul of discretion.” nickname. spirit of its T’u Lung owner — it is vio- To most of the world at large, he is a On the road, and in his mendicant’s lent, and possessed of quick, savage lisping, simpering fop of a man, with an disguise, the Prince wears no armor power. The Floating Blade’s alignment is effeminate way about him. He speaks in other than a heavily mailed kote on his Lawful Good, the Shimmering Blade is a high, lilting voice, avoids direct eye left arm (he is a left-handed swords- Lawful Evil. contact, and never sits or stand upright. man, adding an additional +1 to his Kuang was given the blades by his All of this is an act which he has been abilities as a fencer). In battle, Prince sword mentor, the great Tong Fu Mei, playing for around 10 years, He can slip Gisen wears a fine and honorable suit of who had replaced the blade guards and back and forth between personalities armor in the Shou/T’u style ( +4 magical hilts. (How Tong Fu acquired the blades with startling ease. armor). Its perfect finish has been cov- can only be speculated.) However, the To the best of Lhaeo’s knowledge, he ered by a cheap coat of black lacquer to old sword master wisely did not tell the is the last surviving member of a noble disguise its ancestry. young Prince their origin, telling him family in Tethyr. He is the son of King Dungeon Master’s information: only that the blades had a long and glo- Alemander IV and the younger brother Players may encounter Prince Gisen/ rious history. As a result, Kuang has lit- to prince Alemander V, traitor and kin- Kuang almost anywhere within the tle or no knowledge of the Floating and slayer. Lhaeo’s mother was sent on a Eastern Realms, as his search for allies Shimmering Blades’ abilities. This is as long land and sea excursion for her and artifacts takes him to many strange Tong Fu intended, for his plan is to see health shortly after becoming pregnant places. If the PCs are overwhelmed in which of the two blades Kuang will with him. It lasted over a year, and she an attack, he will always lend his con- favor, and thus determine the young toured many kingdoms. siderable fighting skills to their cause; if Prince’s chosen path. It is ironic indeed When the lad was but 6 months old, he trusts them, he may try to enlist that the very artifacts Prince Gisen he was given into the hands of Elmin- them in his crusade. This may take the needs to carve his way to the Jade ster at the request of King Alemander form of adventures to recover power- Throne are within his very grasp. IV Since Lhaeo was the younger son, ful items, free allies, or just fight a the king sought to protect him from the source of oppression or evil. intrigues of court and get him the best The Floating and the Shimmer- education in all of Faerun, namely ing Blades: The famous Floating Blade under the tutelage of the famous Elmin- of Shin Lu is one of a matched pair of ster. The entire birth and giving over of

81 MINOR CHARACTERS the boy to the sage was kept a secret. runes, secret page, encrypt, inscribe, magic, magic missile. Later, the secret was kept to protect his and legend lore. He has learned all of • Second-level — Forget, locate life. these spells from Elminster. After two object, ray of enfeeblement. Ten years ago, when the royal family decades of service, Lhaeo has learned a • Third-level — Clairvoyance, haste, was thrown down from power, the last lot from them. He reads and writes eve- slow. person in Tethyr to know of the exist- ry language in the Realms, and several • Fourth-level — Charm monster, ence of the prince died. Elminster told from other worlds, and speaks Elvish. dimension door, remove curse. Lhaeo of his true heritage on his 16th He is versed in codes and ciphers, and • Fifth-level — Contact other plane, birthday. By that time, Tethyr was can forge most styles of handwriting. dismissal, hold monster. already in strife. To return would mean He is especially adept at imitating • Sixth-level — Death spell, legend certain death for one only trained as a Elminster’s writing, frequently leaving lore. scribe. With time he has lost most of his messages for the old sage written this Physical description: Maaril is a desire to journey to a homeland he nev- way. This harmless practical joke has human male, a handsome, dark-eyed er knew. been known to produce quite a reac- wizard with a jutting black beard curl- His resemblance to the royal family is tion, to which Lhaeo smiles and goes ing from the point of his chin. Maaril is close enough, at least so Elminster says, back to peeling potatoes. given to wearing dark green or purple that he has adopted a false personality He is particularly skilled at cartogra- robes and always carries a staff. to throw off any visitors from Tethyr phy and calligraphy. He has made sev- Equipment: Maaril always wears who might pass through Shadowdale. eral innovations in mapping now in his bracers of AC4, his amulet of proof Most men will not see past the voice and common use throughout the Realms, against detection and location, and a attitude to think that there might be a Original maps of his can command a ring of X-ray vision. And he is never prince present. fair price in most civilized cities, and without his staff of power. Lhaeo has no desire to rule any caravan masters pay a high price even Personality: Maaril is a quiet, nation, and is content to merely be the for a copy of a copy. patient, behind-the-scenes schemer. He foremost scribe to the foremost sage Lhaeo has few possessions of his own. is known as an eccentric, but no one and practitioner of the art in the One is a short sword of quickness (+2) knows of his evil side. He rarely Realms. He rarely leaves Elminster’s emblazoned with his orginal family appears in public, but is known to Tower, except to get supplies and other crest, which he hides under a wrapping spread the word to the taverns that he common items in Shadowdale. On rare of leather. Rarely needed, he keeps it is having a party for those adventurers occasions he will accompany Elminster hidden in the bedroom of the tower. It who have returned from their latest on a journey, but prefers to be left is his only heritage from his royal lin- quests in the last three months. At these behind. eage. With it he could prove his parent- parties, he makes a point of meeting He has had few women in his years, age to any in Tethyr, although he has no everyone and talking about their and usually they have sharp, penetrat- desire to do so. adventures with some animation, ask- ing minds, and are not easily fooled by ing for particulars about how monsters his act. Currently he is secretly trysting Maaril of Waterdeep were fought and what devices were with Storm Silverhand, a former adven- used or found in the course of the turess of considerable reputation, who ARMOR CLASS: 1 adventure. cares not what others may think of her. MOVE: 12” Motivations: Maaril’s main interest They have kept their relationship Hit Points: 45 in life is magic items, and he will do any- secret from their friends, although it is NO. OF FATTACKS 1 thing he can, in his own way, to obtain almost certain that Elminster is aware DAMAGE/ATTACKS: 1d4 + 2 any items adventurers bring into of it. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use Waterdeep. He throws his “welcome If you use the DRAGON® magazine SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil home” parties in order to find out about NPC class of scribes, Lhaeo would be an MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil the latest items found by adventurers 11th-level scribe. As such, he has the SIZE: M and what other items they may have in trained ability similar to the write spell ALIGNMENT: Neutral Evil which he is interested. (first-level magic-user) without needing PSIONICE ABILITY: Nil He is also fascinated with other to cast any magic. Lhaeo can memorize 13th-Level Magic-User planes and continually researches the and cast up to two of the following spells necessary to open up gates and spells per day: Comprehend languages, S:12 I:18 W:12 D:17 C:15 CH:17 the spells necessary to control denizens confuse languages (reverse of pre- of other planes once he has opened up vious), erase, read magic, unreadable Commonly remembered spells: the gate. He is a careful planner, and is magic (reverse of previous), explosive • First-level — Charm person, detect not likely to open up a gate full of mon-

82 MINOR CHARACTERS sters he cannot control. Maaril can be a good method of get- • Second-level — ESP, ray of enfee- Background notes: It is said that ting rid of a magic item that proves too blement, whip. Maaril came from east of the Inner Sea, disrupting to the campaign. If the char- • Third-level — Clairaudience, hold from Thay or Mulhorand or Aglarond acters are so enamored of the object person, suggestion. or one of those other exotic lands that that they try to get it back, Maaril can • Fourth-level — Charm person, con- are known so little on the Sword Coast. become a major menace to the party, fusion, polymorph other. However, very little is known of growing in level as they do, and always • Fifth-level — Cloud kill, Maaril’s life before he came to Water- ready to attack them with hirelings or feeblemind, magic jar deep. constructs, or otherwise work against • Sixth-level — Disintegrate, project He has adventured with several of the them. Remember that he is constantly image. adventurers of the city and has a repu- acquiring new magic items from other • Seventh-level — Teleport without tation as a greedy but proficient magic- sources as he deals with the player error user who always wants magic items as characters. • Eighth-level — Trap the soul. his share of any loot. He is also stingy If he gets the characters mad enough, Physical description: Manshoon with his magic items, using spells he can be used as an excuse for a trip to is a human male of average size who before a magic item. Of course, if he is the other planes. As the characters always wears a mask. It is said that he traveling with an adventuring band, his close in on him, he escapes to another has had his features changed from spell mix, as shown above, changes to plane, and the characters must follow when he was last seen unmasked. In fit the situation. him (using some artifact that he had to any case, no one knows his true face, Other notes: Maaril lives in the leave behind in the rush). Once on the and he is said to walk unmasked in the Dragon Tower, which is so called other plane, they must hunt him down, streets of Zhentil Keep to get a better because the top of the tower is carved and deal with the inhabitants of the oth- understanding of the people. If so, his into a dragon head and the smoke from er plane. The DM can devise an elabo- actions prove this deception is solely for the chimneys issues from the dragon’s rate society of other plane beings the purpose of learning how to repress nostrils and mouth, an eerie sight. whose ways are totally foreign to the them better. Maaril rarely issues forth from this party members, and to Maaril. The Equipment: Manshoon carries a tower, except to attend the private par- characters may have to team up with staff of the magi, wears black robes of ties of the nobles of Waterdeep or make Maaril to escape this plane, then finally the arch-magi and wears a ring of spell arrangements for his own parties, deal with him back in the Forgotten storing and a ring of wizardry that dou- which are restricted to the bottom floor Realms. And, of course, there is nothing bles fourth- and fifth-level spells. If he of the tower. Guests climbing the stairs to say that they will come out in the does, in fact, walk the streets of Zhentil are stopped by animated statues (stone same place they entered. Keep, then he must have other magical golems) who do not let anyone pass to items that protect him, or some sort of the upper stories. Manshoon of the illusion to hide the appearance of his The tower is full of guardian mon- usual equipment. sters in the form of enchanted con- Zhentarim Personality: Manshoon is cruel, cal- structs, and they remain lifeless if ARMOR CLASS: 3 culating, and careful. He never lets his Maaril has guests rather than MOVE: 12” temper master his reason, and is always intruders, unless the guests go where Hit Points: 60 alert. He is quite content to flee danger. they are not wanted. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Motivations: Manshoon learned at When Maaril wants to seize a magic DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6 an early age that the best spot to occupy item from its current owner, he sends SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use in a tyranny is the tyrant’s seat. His gargoyles or clay golems by night. If SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil tyrannical father abused his power adventurers prove pesky and persist- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil over his children, and Manshoon decid- ent in wanting their items back, he SIZE: M ed that no one would again have that hires (through intermediaries) bravos ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil authority over him. and assassins to do away with them. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil His ultimate goal is the total domina- When the golems and gargoyles 16th-Level Human Magic-User tion of the Realms from the Sunrise secure the items for which they are S:10 I:18 W:16 D:16 C:16 CH:18 Mountains to the Sword Coast. Then, sent, they return to the Dragon Tower perhaps, he will feel safe and sure that by means of the sewers of Waterdeep. Commonly remembered spells: no one will be able to tyrannize him Maaril has a secret entrance to the • First-level — Charm person, burn- again. sewers in his kitchen area, which is in ing hands, shocking grasp. Background notes: Manshoon the back of the first floor of the tower. was born to a noble house of Zhentil

83 MINOR CHARACTERS

Keep. After his father’s death, Man- his alliance of all classes of being makes PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil shoon first slew his older brother him well-nigh invulnerable. Anyone Asmuth and then seized control of the wishing to assault him directly will Physical description: Manxam’s city’s governing councils by skillful need help. physical shape is the same as any other intrigue, staunch allies (such as the city One interesting focus for adventure eye tyrant: A large diameter sphere ruler, Lord Chess, a lifelong “friend”), is Manshoon’s many caches of equip- covered in chitin with ten eyestalks, a and the aid of the beholder Xantriph ment and provisions. Each of these large eye in the forward part of the and that faction of the priesthood of would provide a rare treasure for an sphere, and a tooth-filled mouth below Bane led by Fzoul Chembryl. adventuring party. Of course, discover- that, all of which floats about 3” above Manshoon’s alliances with the dark ing a map to any of these caches is virtu- the ground. nagas, and his manipulations of the Cult ally impossible, but it would not be Equipment: There is very little of the Dragon, increased his influence strange for Manshoon to hide them equipment that is of use to an eye and bought him the time necessary to away in a dungeon where other crea- tyrant, but Manxam has rigged a frame- build his personal mastery of the magi- tures and treasures can serve to scare work among his eye tentacles and had a cal arts without allowing stronger away or distract adventurers. helm of telepathy altered to let him rivals to assume control of the city until This situation could serve as a means wear and use it. he was ready to take it. of involving a party of adventurers who Like any eye tyrant, Manxam has Now he has virtual control of the city have had no dealings with the Zhen- extensive treasures, including several and he has flourished; his spell library tarim in a feud with Manshoon. In magical items. He likes to collect them is thought to be the equal of Khelben whatever dungeon they are exploring, for the sake of collecting them, and, of Arunsun’s, and his arsenal of magical simply set up a treasure of gems, jew- course, any magic item in his collection devices and weapons the largest held elry, and a couple of magic items appro- cannot be used against him. by a single mage anywhere in the priate for a magic-user but usable by Personality: Manxam is a very rea- Realms (although it is scattered, hidden, others (such as rings of protection or sonable beholder, ready to deal with and guarded by spells and monsters). some miscellaneous magic item), guard humans (as long as it is to his perceived Other notes: Manshoon heads the them with monsters and/or traps that advantage) rather than immediately Zhentarim; its power and success are can sit in one place for decades without attack them. For this reason, he first largely due to his efforts, and its collec- needing to move around, and let them allied himself with Zhentil Keep. tive control of Zhentil Keep, the Citadel be found by the intrepid adventurers. He is particularly friendly to priests of the Raven (and through it, domi- They slay the guardians, avoid the of Bane, and unfriendly to magic-users nance of Thar and the cities of the traps, and gain a useful treasure. Man- unless they demonstrate their friendli- Moonsea’s north coast), Darkhold (and shoon is very upset, and soon learns ness to him. He will not negotiate with a through it, maintenance of the shortest who looted his cache, and the charac- magic-user, though he is willing to overland trade route between the Inner ters gain an implacable foe, who will speak to one for the purpose of threat- Sea and Waterdeep) have made him not rest until they are all dead. ening him. very rich. Motivations: Manxam is motivated He seems an unbeatable foe; others Manxam by a desire to build up a private little face danger to do his bidding, but he is fiefdom in Teshwave. He has servants “never there.” FREQUENCY: Very Rare and slaves, and is willing to help the It must be kept in mind that although NO. APPEARING: 1 humans of Zhentil Keep in order to the Zhentarim (known as “The Black ARMOR CLASS: 0/2/7 accumulate more wealth to build up his Network” to its foes) is a powerful MOVE: 3” own defenses. force, it does not, in fact, control Zhen- HIT DICE: XX Manxam, like most of the eye tyrants til Keep. Manshoon has the ear of Lord Hit Points: 70 who have cooperated with humankind Chess, but so do many other councilors, % IN LAIR: 80 in Zhentil Keep prior to the rise of the including representatives of Lord Bane TREASURE TYPE: I,S,T Zhentarim, resents and despises the who are not under the thumb of Fzoul NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 “upstart mages,” vastly preferring the Chembryl. DAMAGE/ATTACK: 2d4 priests of Bane, who accord beholders Thus, it is possible to enter Zhentil SPECIAL ATTACKS: Magic the respect they see as their due. More- Keep to confront Manshoon (assuming SPECIAL DEFENSES: Anti-magic ray over, he views the Zhentarim’s bold anyone would want to do so) and not be MAGIC RESISTANCE: Special expansionist policies with increasing stopped at the city gates. However, INTELLIGENCE: Exceptional alarm, thinking that they will lead to an Manshoon has his own small fortress ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil inevitable battle union of all of Zhentil within the walls of Zhentil Keep, and SIZE: L (5’ diameter) Keep’s foes, and the resulting defeat

84 MINOR CHARACTERS

and destruction of Zhentil Keep. If treasure at the same time. In this way, kind, his aloneness torments him and Zhentil Keep is destroyed, its allies will the anti-Zhentarim faction, which still is drives him to associate even more with be destroyed, and Manxam is too intelli- a great part of Zhentil Keep, is not seen the world of men. gent to think he won’t be one of the as directly threatening the city, as long As a human, Masakado is thin and allies to go down. as no one realizes it is sponsoring the lithe — a cat in all but shape. His rich, For this reason, he is helping the oppos- bandits who are giving the Zhentarim a lustrous hair is shot with golden streaks ing faction of priests of Bane, based in bad time. (a sign of his tiger blood), while his fea- Mulmaster, to thwart the Zhentarim Of course, what the characters do tures are sharp and savage, as if rough- where he can, and still remain in the good when they realize that their patrons are ly carved from stone. A soft, gentle graces of Zhentil Keep. It is a thin edge he led by an eye tyrant is a good question, voice and sleepy indolent movements walks, but he has supreme confidence in as is the question of how long Manxam belie an incredible awareness of his sur- his ability to walk it. can stay in the background instead of roundings; his senses are far keener Background notes: Manxam spent coming to the fore and trying to enslave than those of others, and the slightest centuries in the shadow of Xantirph or kill the characters. After all, that has sound can jar him from torpor to and Zorkha. However, since their been the instinct of beholders for cen- instant activity. Moody, intense and deaths at the hands of adventurers, he turies, and centuries of instinct are headstrong, he finds it hard to plan or is probably the most powerful eye hard to shake off. think ahead; instead, he lives for the tyrant in the lands of the northwest The characters can realize the nature moment. Inner Sea, including the Moonsea cities, of their patrons in several ways, from Masakado is a creature of rage; domi- Sembia, Cormyr, and the Dales. Manx- spotting Manxam lurking in the back- nated by the wild and savage side of am deals in the politics of men as Xan- ground to making a deduction based on himself, he is constantly struggling to tirph did, but with a far lower profile the condition of the people of Teshwave subdue his animal nature. His manners and fewer servant creatures. and what is being done toward recov- are urbane; he is well-educated and Since the great dragon invasion of a ery for the town. intelligent. But his blood calls him to few years ago, Manxam has lived in hunt at night and to seek the fury of Teshwave, once a burgeoning riverside Masakado battle and the kill. His soft voice sings trade town, now a ruin inhabited by the with implied threat and menace, and remnants of its population and an eye MOVE: 12” his actions are violent and erratic. He tyrant who has taken this time of devas- Hit Points: 70 takes offense at the smallest things, par- tation as an invitation to settle himself NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 ticularly if the slight is from a human. into a nice little estate. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type Masakado’s greatest secret is his alli- The Zhentarim leave him alone, but SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil ance with the monk Jinchin, a human other residents of Zhentil Keep visit SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil he loathes and hates, but serves willing- and keep him apprised of current MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ly. Perhaps this is because each sees developments. SIZE: M himself mirrored in the other. Ulti- Other notes: It is thought that the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil mately, Masakado’s fury will lead him to anti-Zhentarim faction is using Ninth-Level Bushi his destruction, as his anger drives him Teshwave and Manxam as a focal point Tiger Hengeyokai to honor no other will but his own. for assembling their forces and training S:18 I:12 W:7 D:18 C:16 CH:15 Dungeon Master’s information: recruits for the “great day” when they Encountering Masakado is a risky prop- drive Manshoon and his followers out Proficiencies: Calligraphy, eti- osition for any adventuring party. His of Zhentil Keep. However, they are quette, reading/writing, survival, track- violent mood swings and fearsome faced with the problem of being a rela- ing, gaming, hunting, and running. combat skills make him dangerous in tively small force facing a large, suc- Anger drives him — a terrible, feral the extreme. If the party ignores his cessful, operation. Being the alignment thing. For he has not yet decided which markedly hengeyokai background, he they are, they cannot even depend on path to take; that of men or that of the may join them for a time as a compan- the support of the populace around beast. His greatest weakness is that he ion; however, at the least hint of insult Zhentil Keep, for they are just as terri- worships power in all its forms, and or notice, he will fly into a murderous fying and tyrannical as the Zhentarim. fears it most of all in himself. rage. This presents some interesting possi- Personal History: Born a shape- Masakado wears fairly standard bilities for adventures, as characters changer, the hengeyokai Masakado may armor for a Kozakuran — lacquered can be lured to Teshwave and persuad- assume human, cat-man or tiger deep black with diagonal stripes of gold ed to “strike a blow for freedom” aspects. He is beyond the bounds of on back, breast, and helm. He carries an against the Zhentarim and gain great normal society, but unlike others of his extremely long no-dachi (the long horse

85 MINOR CHARACTERS sword), which he easily uses with one very shrewd man. a Lord of Waterdeep. He was already hand. Neither armor not arms possess Anyone who has closer relationships looking for a way to break his boredom, any magical properties. with him, such as his friends among the so he accepted immediately. A few Lords of Waterdeep, know that he is years later, when another Lord died, he Mirt “The also a romantic, and very soft-hearted. suggested that Durnan be brought into Motivations: Mirt wishes to main- the Lords, and the other Lords agreed. Moneylender” of tain the peace and prosperity of Water- It was something of a shock to Durnan Waterdeep deep, and uses his power as a Lord of to see Mirt there, as he had begun to fall Waterdeep to insure this tranquility. At away from his friend because of Mirt’s ARMOR CLASS: 1 one time, Mirt was a money-grubbing strange behavior. MOVE: 12” mercenary, but once he had accumu- Shortly after becoming a Lord, Mirt Hit Points: 75 lated a fortune, he realized that he decided to get closer to the people of NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 could not buy the peace and tranquility Waterdeep. He figured the best way DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 + 3 he wanted, that he would have to work was to become a thief. So the old, fat, SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil for it. The calm he craved would not be but surprisingly agile Tonius the thief SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil possible unless the rest of the world appeared in the Dock Ward and became MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil was at peace. a member of the Thieves Guild. He SIZE: M So when Khelben and Sammereza advanced rapidly until the Lords, ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good greeted him when he moved to Water- alarmed, among other things, at the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil deep and asked him to become a Lord success of thieves in robbing them, Ninth-Level Human Fighter of Waterdeep, he accepted wholeheart- decided to close the guild down. Mirt Seventh-Level Thief edly. Now he makes his wheezing way acted as a spy for the Lords, discover- S:17 I:13 W:15 D:17 C:16 CH:14 around the streets of the city, looking ing all the secret ways and safe houses, for problems and trying to see what then in a week of flame and steel, the Thief skills: Pick pocket 65%, open must be done to keep Waterdeep safe. guild was destroyed, and most of its locks 62%, find/remove traps 50%, He is one of the most practical of the members slain, captured, or driven out move silently 60%, hide in shadows members of the Lords, though his of Waterdeep. 48%, hear noise 25%, climb walls 94%, innate romanticism sometimes clouds After that, Mirt returned to his craft and read languages 35%. his views of the most practical ways to as a fighter and continued in that class, Physical description: Mirt is a accomplish a purpose. gaining most of his experience on a few human male — fat, casual in dress, and Background notes: Mirt is short missions with other Lords that took generally seen with a tankard in his for Mertonius, and as the son of a suc- them Undermountain and into other hand. His face is round and red-nosed, cessful coaster (a trading concern along planes to defend Waterdeep. his hair is an unremarkable brown, and the Sword Coast), he was brought up Now, though he is often seen wheez- he walks with a slight hitch in his step, with an appreciation of the legends of ing about from tavern to tavern in food- as if being very careful where he puts the great heroes of yore. He gravitated stained clothing, Mirt is actually a very his feet. Anyone who sees him for the toward the life of a fighting man, and rich man. He is also one of the most first time assumes he is drunk. rapidly gained prominence under his influential Lords of Waterdeep, though Equipment: Mirt wears a set of nickname, Mirt. few beyond the Lords themselves know stained leather armor +4 under a loose Eventually, he became a successful this. He is well-loved by his fellows, tunic and trews. This includes a hood mercenary general of the North and even the paladins, and is wise in tactics that lies under the tunic unless he is get- Sword Coast lands called “Mirt the Mer- and in judging the characters of all ting into a fight. In a fight, he fights with ciless,” and accumulated a vast store of races and creeds. two weapons, his long sword +2 and wealth. Along the way, he met Durnan Other notes: Mirt’s constant com- his dagger. He also wears a ring of the Wanderer, and they became good panion is the young fighter Asper, regeneration. Around his neck is a gem friends and companions. whom he rescued as an infant from a on a chain which is actually a periapt of Finally, Mirt decided he was tired, sacked city, and whom he regards as his proof against poison +2. and determined that he would retire little girl, despite her now-matured Personality: Mirt is coarse- and enjoy it. The younger Durnan fol- beauty. Asper is a fighter of about fifth mannered and gruff, a hard-drinking lowed him into retirement, mostly level, (DEX 17, CHA 16, CG) worships man. In earlier days, he also had a repu- because he could not conceive of con- Tymora, and is a lithe, petite beauty, tation for being lusty and brawling. tinuing his adventuring without Mirt. soft-spoken yet merry. Her weapon of Anyone who has dealings with him real- Within a month of his arrival in choice is the bow, and she has a com- izes that beneath the beery exterior is a Waterdeep, Mirt was invited to become posite short bow +1 and 13 arrows +1

86 MINOR CHARACTERS

and four arrows +3 to use with it. She however, is not prone to slaughtering gold or silver. The only things that also has an arrow +3 of slaying griffins parties for fun, or destroying villages really interest her, other than food, are, which is fletched with griffin feathers. for no reason other than to relish the in fact, music and story. For this reason, chaos it creates. That type of wanton Mist is likely to attack caravans that Mistinarperadnacles destruction bores Mist, and she feels may be carrying magical items that can there are more important things to be hold her interest — like mechanical Hai Draco accomplished than simple demolition. singing birds or talking mirrors. Of FREQUENCY: Unique Mist discovered how boring — and course, adventurers can sing and tell NO: APPEARING: 1 dangerous — destruction for the sake tales, too, and Mist has been known to ARMOR CLASS: -4 of chaos can be when she flew south kidnap people and keep them around as MOVE: 9”/11” and west with a flight of dragons from long as they keep her entertained. HIT DICE: 10 the glaciers beyond Thar and attacked It was on one of her frequent raids on Hit Points: 90 Yulash and Shadowdale. Though the the caravans traveling to Suzail that % IN LAIR: 60 destruction of Yulash was mildly amus- Mist first got involved with Olive TREASURE TYPE: H,S,T,X ing to Mist, the pitched battle over Sha- Ruskettle. The halfling thief was travel- NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 (see below) dowdale in which many of her ing as a bard to the wedding of the sage DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8/1d8/3d10 comrades were destroyed by the river Dimswart’s daughter in Suzail when SPECIAL ATTACKS: Breath weapon and witch Selune was simply too dangerous Mist carried off the wagon she was in. magic use to be enjoyed. Mist was delighted to have snagged SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil After the battle over Shadowdale, such a wonderfully entertaining prize, MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Mist moved to the Storm Horn Moun- and kept Olive in a cage in her lair. INTELLIGENCE: Exceptional tains, west of Cormyr. There she bat- Olive kept Mist entertained until the ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Evil with Neutral tled a younger dragon, driving him out swordswoman Alias, with the help of tendencies of his lair and appropriating his hoard. Akabar Bel Akash and Dragonbait, res- SIZE: L (45’ long) During the battle, before Mist sealed cued the halfling. Alias challenged and PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil her victory by tearing through her defeated Mist in a feint of honor. opponent’s wings and grounding him, Though Mist was honorable enough to Commonly used spells: Charm she grew overconfident, and the youn- follow the rules of combat during the person, locate object, protection from ger male struck a nearly fatal blow. feint, she was set to attack the heroes normal missiles, hold person. Mist quickly defeated the other dragon when Alias escaped with Olive. The Mistinarperadnacles, or Mist, as she after that, but it was not the last time dragon was so offended by her loss to is commonly known, is a typical venera- Mist would pay for toying with her Alias that she vowed to destroy the ble red dragon in most regards. She can adversaries. swordswoman. speak and use magic, having gained two After the battle, Mist remained in the Though she came close on many occa- spells of each level from first through Storm Horns, perched over the trade sions, Mist never saw Alias again. How- fourth level, and one fifth-level spell. route from Suzail to Waymoot, waiting ever, the dragon did catch up with Olive Mist can breathe a cone of fire 9” long for travelers and merchants to provide Ruskettle outside of Yulash. Again Mist by 3” base diameter. Like all dragons in her with what she considered really delayed devouring the halfling so the the Realms, she can use this breath important. In the lair, a flock of ravens pseudo-bard could sing for her. This weapon as many times as she sees fit in constantly flutters about, and Mist time it was the saurial paladin Dragon- a 24-hour period, inflicting total dam- seems able to read their actions, if not bait who rescued Olive through a feint age not exceeding three times her hit communicate with them directly, for of honor — though with considerable points, or 270 total points of damage. the birds often warn her of approach- help from Olive. Where Mist differs from a standard ing attackers when she is asleep. The defeated dragon agreed to help red dragons is in her personality. While Most of the things Mist deems impor- Dragonbait rescue Alias and Akabar most red dragons are horrifyingly evil tant have to do with her personal com- from The Abomination of Moander. In and avaricious creatures, Mist is rather fort. She is very concerned with her the initial skirmish, Akabar was res- refined and even a bit naive in her out- diet and maintaining a schedule of reg- cued from The Abomination. However, look on life. She is far from the terrify- ular and frequent meals. Her raids on in a spectacular battle over Westgate, ing force of evil stereotypically villages or caravans usually occur Mist and The Abomination destroyed personified by red dragons. around her numerous mealtimes. each other. This does not mean Mist is not deadly Like all red dragons, Mist is inter- This may not be the end of Mist’s or evil. She is most certainly both. Mist, ested in obtaining material wealth. But existence in the Realms. The Cult of the she is often bored by simple items of Dragon has certainly learned of Mist’s

87 MINOR CHARACTERS demise and it is possible they may fire seeds, wall of thorns, weather like Robyn’s Staff of the White Well, but attempt to revive her as a dracolich. summoning. has the head of a bear carved into its The huge amount of damage Mist must • Seventh-level — Animate rock, con- top and can only be used to summon have sustained in the battle with The jure earth elemental, control bears. It cannot be used to summon a Abomination of Moander will certainly weather finger of death. fire storm or summon weather as the make any resurrection difficult, if not Like any druid of seventh level or Staff of the White Well can. impossible. higher in the Moonshaes, Genna can If she knows she is going into a fight, If Mist were to return, however, she create a rune stick. The rune stick is a Genna wears leather armor. Genna will would certainly wish to revenge herself kind of magical wand that can be cre- also enchant some fire seeds and a rune on Alias and her companions. In fact, ated by a druid of seventh level or high- stick as needed. she would very likely hold a grudge er who also has a Dexterity of 14 or Personality: Since she took over against most adventurers, blaming better. The rune stick is a short piece of the position of great druid of the Moon- them all for her misfortune. oak about 12” long, carved with a shaes, Genna has maintained a low pro- Mist will also retain many of the foi- detailed pattern of runes, and then file, preferring to maintain Myrloch bles that made her unlike most red wrapped in mistletoe or holly. It nor- Vale and lead her fellow druids by dragons. Whether as a dragon or a dra- mally can be used to store up to five example rather than autocratic com- colich, Mist will undoubtedly retain her spell levels of druidical spells. However, mand. Her humble attitude is shown by interest in music and story. If an adven- the great druid of the Moonshaes can her favorite shape-changes. She would turer can’t divert the dragon with a put up to 20 levels of spells into a rune rather be a sparrow than an eagle, a song or tale, Mist will likely give them stick. shrew than a wolf, a lizard than a viper. plenty of time to escape anyway. She The stick takes 1d4 hours to create However, she is fiercely dedicated to always toys with her adversaries for every spell level put into it (roll sepa- the defense of the Goddess, and brooks before dispatching them, a habit that rately for each spell). Upon completing no opposition. cost her her life. the rune stick, the druid must cast the Motivations: Genna always felt spells he or she wishes to store upon it. inferior to her sister, the highly charis- Genna Moonsinger The rune stick crumbles to dust one matic Brianna Moonsinger. When month after creation. It cannot be Brianna was slain, the Circle of Druids ARMOR CLASS: 6 recharged. was surprised to discover that Genna MOVE: 12” The spells stored in the rune stick are was the best qualified to succeed her Hit Points: 85 cast at the level of the druid who sister, but no more surprised than Gen- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 enchanted the rune stick. It can be used na herself was. DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6 by any druid who knows the command She buried her resentment of Brian- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use word. It can also be used by any maiden na to be the best great druid the Isles SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil of pure heart (use the unicorn test to had ever seen, but under her dominion, MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil determine this) who knows the com- the druids of other isles were slain or SIZE: M mand word. However, when used by a driven out, the Leviathan was slain, and ALIGNMENT: Neutral non-druid, the effects of the spells (radi- the principal Moonwell defiled despite PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil us, range, damage, etc.) are halved, and all the efforts of Genna and the remain- 14th-Level Human Great Druid the victim receives a + 4 modifier to his ing druids. S:11 I:15 W:18 D:15 C:17 CH:17 saving throw. Thus, when Hobarth managed to Physical description: Genna is a insert the Heart of Kazgaroth into Gen- Commonly remembered spells: pleasantly rounded older woman. She na as she sat defenseless in the statue • First-level — Animal friendship, has a plump, lined face, and a warm form created by the Goddess in a last ceremony, speak with animals. smile. Her hair is brown and worn effort to protect her servants, the heart • Second-level — Barkskin, charm short. As befits her position as repre- fed on Genna’s resentment and frustra- person, locate plants. sentative of the Goddess, she is very tion to turn her into a willing servant of • Third-level — Call lightning, neu- motherly. She seems to be middle-aged, Bhaal, dedicated to destroying what she tralize poison, protection from but she is older than she looks. had lived so long to preserve. fire. Generally, Genna wears the robes of Background notes: Genna is the • Fourth-level — Animal summoning her station as great druid of the Moon- sister of the former great druid, Brian- I, call woodland beings, plant door. shaes. na Moonsinger (Robyn’s mother). She • Fifth-level — Commune with Equipment: Genna usually has a gained her sister’s rank when Brianna nature, insect plague, wall of fire. torque of the goddess (see description was slain trying to stop Kazgaroth from • Sixth-level — Cure critical wounds, of Robyn) and a druid staff. This staff is manifesting.

88 MINOR CHARACTERS

When Kazgaroth finally arrived, Gen- A korobokuru dwarf only distantly tampe in almost any locale, although he na organized the spiritual defense of related to men, Okotampe is small often returns to visit Monkey at his tem- Corwell against the monster, but she (shorter than 4’ tall), wiry, and thin. ple in Tomobiki. As an encounter, Oko- would have failed without Prince Tris- From his bowlegged stance, to his wild tampe is more likely to be an tan and Robyn to turn the tide with the beard and hair liberally coated in bear aggravation than an experience. He is Sword of Cymrych Hugh and Robyn’s fat, he is almost a throwback to a time likely to talk in riddles, refuse to divulge burgeoning druidic powers. before the Celestial Ones taught men to information, yell at the adventurers, Recognizing that Robyn had potential walk upright and use fire. He never insult anyone whom he meets, and gen- to be the greatest druid the Isles had bathes, wears filthy rags, spits, curses, erally make a nuisance of himself. ever seen, Genna took her under her yells, and is invariably rude. Okotampe has no fixed abode, prefer- wing. But before she could finish the If others stare at him and call him ring to live in the trees or in the nearest girl’s training, Hobarth struck with his names, it doesn’t matter to Okotampe; cave. His needs are few, and he will army of undead and managed to defeat he has little use for humans anyway, show little or no interest in treasure or the assembled druids. considering them little more than bar- possessions. In most cases, he will After the fight at the Moonwell, in barian invaders. His culture is a far old- either ignore the adventurers or bore which the Goddess turned Genna and er one, with its own mystical rhythms them to death with long, rambling sto- her fellow druids to stone to thwart and ancient powers. ries about spirits, animals, and the Hobarth, he took the Heart of Okotampe is a shaman — a sorcerer korobokuru gods. The exception is if Kazgaroth and implanted it in her of skill among his people. Through their there are spirit people among the party statue. This corrupted the great druid totem animals and legends which were members. These people he will treat and turned her into an anti-druid, with old before the first kings, the korobo- with great deference and respect, tak- all the powers of a druid but dedicated kuru people have access to the Spirit ing time to talk to them while ignoring to the destruction of the Goddess and World itself. To them, the Bear Gods and most of the other party members. the ascendancy of Bhaal. Owl Women walk the earth in invisible form, invisible to lesser beings, and visi- Onoye Okotampe ble to the korobokuru only through their use of their magical symbols and MOVE: 12” MOVE: 12” nature signs. Hit Points: Special Hit Points: 21 Okotampe is the only one of the com- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 panions of Monkey who knows of DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or Onoye’s true spirit origin. Believing her spell spell to be a guide from the Owl Woman, he SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use travels with her, hoping Onoye will lead SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil him to a new totem spirit to replace his MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil tribes’ old one. Because he believes the SIZE: M SIZE: S willow woman to be from the gods, he PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil is understandably overly protective of Seventh-Level Kami Sixth-Level Korobokuru Wu Jen her. He tolerates the other members of S:18 I:16 W:10 D:17 C:14 CH:17 S:11 I:16 W:12 D:14 C:12 CH:8 Monkey’s group as associates of his Though Onoye is technically immor- Proficiencies: Chanting, fire build- spirit guide with their own arcane pur- ing, survival, tracking. poses in the gods’ plans. tal, she can be dispelled to her willow Commonly used spells: Animate Okotampe wears no armor and usu- grove after 40 hit points of damage. Proficiencies: Calligraphy, eti- wood, ghost light, secret signs, shield, ally carries no weapons, preferring to animal companion, animate water, use whatever comes to hand. He is quette, music, reading/writing, singing, and cooking. detect shape-changer, commune with extremely fond of clubs and other Commonly used spells: Bless, lesser spirit, scry, shout, stone shape, large, heavy objects. These he wields detect evil, cure light wounds, com- and true sight. with a strength far greater than his appearance warrants. During the battle mune with greater and lesser spirits, “There must be a special kami in for the village of Tomobiki, he acquired speak with plants. Celestial Heaven that watches over a rusting iron tetsubo, which he now If there is perfection, then it is mir- such things as the korobokuru. For if uses exclusively, when he uses a weap- rored in a moving stream. And if there there wasn’t, I am certain I would have on at all. is perfection in woman, it is Onoye, for killed Okotampe years ago!” — Dungeon Master’s information: like a stream, she mirrors Heaven and Prince Gisen Players are likely to encounter Oko- yet has hidden, shifting depths below

89 MINOR CHARACTERS her peace. constructed an elaborate background, women carry to defend themselves The book of yan: A tiny woman of implying some things, agreeing to other against dishonor. Her greatest powers delicate grace and perfect bearing, things, and letting those around her come from her spirit ability to raise the Onoye is the embodiment of refined supply the missing parts from their force of nature against her foes. This beauty. Her clear voice and simple, own imaginations. Sometimes this ability, which may be used only once unpretentious manners belie a careful- doesn’t work; those who know her per week, covers a range of one mile, ly sheltered upbringing, perhaps as the often discover disturbing gaps in her and has a duration of up to 1d10 daughter of a great lord or even a dai- knowledge. She knows the working of rounds, acts as a combination of the fol- myo. nature and the seasons, but is con- lowing spells: Elemental burst, animate But Onoye is more than a mere orna- founded by such everyday things as the water, cloudburst, move earth, whirl- ment of a Shogonate castle. She has an ceremonies of the Way of Enlighten- wind and call (animals only). Onoye will innate understanding of the human ment or the names of famous person- only invoke this power if Sanehiro/ soul, of the complexities of social rela- ages. She is strangely uncurious about Monkey is in severe danger — other- tionships, of the inner meanings of con- the material world; food, money, or wise, she will not use her abilities, even versation. Her passions run deep shelter mean nothing to her. Yet she is to save her own life. beneath her calm exterior; her endur- fascinated by talk of spirits, magic, and ance is astonishing, and her fury and the affairs of Heaven. Orgauth of Zhentil savagery can explode without warning Onoye fears little — not even death or source. At these times, she seems to itself. Her greatest fear is of being dis- Keep be more than human, to be truly a force covered. It is forbidden for those not in ARMOR CLASS: -1 of nature. communion with the Spirit World to MOVE: 12” Onoye’s secret: This is not too far know her true nature; should she be Hit Points: 45 from the truth. For Onoye is actually a found out, she would be compelled to NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 lesser nature spirit — an earthbound, return to her willow spirit shape in DAMAGE/ATTACK: 2d4 + 3 minor deity more goddess than human. shame. This would take her away from SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil She has left her previous life to wander her beloved shukenja and end her tenu- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil the earth in a mortal form, seeking ful- ous visit on earth. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil fillment unattainable through any oth- Dungeon Masters information: SIZE: M er path. Her fate is thus intertwined Onoye will always be encountered in ALIGNMENT: Neutral Evil with Sanehiro/Monkey’s, as he seeks to the company of Sanehiro/Monkey; in PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil rise above his human weaknesses. fact, she will never be more than a few Seventh-Level Human Fighter Willow and Monkey: The essential yards from his side if possible. She will S:16 I:15 W:16 D:16 C:15 CH:16 yin and yang of these two people is evi- take a polite and gentle interest in the dent in their relationship to each other. adventurers, although she will not Physical description: Orgauth is a Early in their travels, Sanehiro, rootless show any great interest in their affairs human male in early middle age. His and seeking comfort, imagined that he unless they speak of magic and the Spir- dirty blond hair virtually masks his few was in love with the beautiful willow it World. Her conversation will then gray hairs. He often wears the russet woman. Her gentle rebuff of his fum- become more animated, showing a and scarlet colors of his livery; his arms bling attentions caused Sanehiro to bright and sparkling personality are a russet raven striking, talons out, reconsider things, so that eventually he beneath her passive demeanor. on a scarlet field. In combat he wears came to view her more as a daughter Onoye’s sorcery enables her to his plate armor and wields a bastard than a lover. However, as Sanehiro appear as a non-magical being; an ordi- sword two-handed. gained greater self-awareness, culmi- nary woman to all who meet her. Only Equipment: Orgauth’s armor is nating in his rebirth as the shukenja those with some connection to the Spir- plate mail +2 and he usually wields a Monkey, his courage and honesty it World will be able to perceive her bastard sword +2, though he has a touched something deeper within secret. Other spirit folk within a party crossbow of distance with which he is Onoye. This dimly realized feeling has will know almost automatically, but will equally proficient. He also has a ring of blossomed into the fire of love — a love be constrained by the laws of Heaven human influence and carries a set of which can never be realized as Monkey from revealing her identity. Shukenja eyes of the eagle in a pouch for using is destined for greater things. and other enlightened souls may have with the crossbow. Onoye’s kami powers are few but an inkling. Personality: Orgauth seems to be a potent, and she is reluctant to reveal Onoye wears no armor, and carries simple merchant-fighter, blunt in his them, fearing that her secret might be almost no weapons. Her only armament ways and with just the bare cunning divined. Without actually lying, she has is the slender dagger all high-born

90 MINOR CHARACTERS

necessary to survive as a trader in an sionism, but support him still as the Manshoon. After all, if Manshoon and essentially evil city. Actually, Orgauth is best person to really run the city. Fzoul were destroyed, a man could get a ruthless, subtle schemer. Orgauth is also consulted by Lord back to making a dishonest profit in Motivations: Orgauth is torn Chess, and Orgauth frequently argues peace again, and Zhentil Keep would be between his lust for control and his the Zhentarim cause to him. He works a much less stressful place to live. wish to maintain the trade relations against the Zhentarim on a more subtle He can be contacted through his offic- that enrich him. Outwardly, he sup- level. es in his citadel in the northeastern area ports the Zhentarim (indeed, his goals Other notes: Orgauth’s bodyguard of Zhentil Keep. He is generally in Zhen- and theirs often coincide), but he also consists of five fifth-level fighters (the til Keep, though he occasionally accom- supports activities that work against sergeants who lead the others), nine panies his caravans elsewhere around the Zhentarim, or betrays their more fourth-level fighters, 12 third-level the Moonsea. reckless or ill-founded projects. fighters, 20 second-level fighters, and If encountered with a caravan, he has He works to maintain the rule of 30 first-level fighters. His real work one troop (25 men) of his bodyguard Maalthiir in Hillsfar as a check against force consists of about 50 more zero- with him. The rest are minding the the expansionist policies of the Zhen- level fighters who are being trained in home front. tarim. He believes that an empire cen- both warfare and surveillance. tered on Zhentil Keep would overreach All of these fighters are trained in rid- Pawldo and weaken the city’s military strength ing, spear, short bow, and broad sword and earn it the enmity of those con- and shield. They are not actually an ARMOR CLASS: 3 quered, which would hurt his trade effective cavalry force, but they can MOVE: 9” propects. stay on their horses long enough to get Hit Points: 60 One of his major allies is Manxam the to a fight and get off to fight. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 beholder. Because of Orgauth’s opposition to DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6 Background notes: Orgauth start- the Zhentarim, he can be a source of SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil ed as the younger son of one of the adventure for characters who are SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil nobles of Zhentil Keep. As a younger interacting with the Zhentarim. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil son, he devoted himself to warfare for He can warn (through indirect com- SIZE: S (3’1”) 15 years, fighting many times in the ments or agents, never by his own ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good armies of Zhentil Keep. direct statement) people that the Zhen- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil In the meantime, his father and older tarim do not always live up to the spirit Fifth-Level Halfling Fighter brother died, and Orgauth retired from of their contracts. Seventh-Level Thief the military to become one of the lords He can hire adventurers himself to S:14 I:15 W:13 D:18 C:18 CH:16 of Zhentil Keep. He earns much respect guard his caravans or perform special as a seasoned veteran of the Moonsea missions for him, particularly in times Thief skills: Pick pockets 75%, wars and is now a wealthy merchant in of stress when he wants all of his own open locks 72%, find/remove traps his own right. guard around him to protect him. 60%, move silently 75%, hide in He has built his ore-refining (mostly Conversely, he can become the villain shadows 68%, hear noise 30%, climb taking ore from a mine he discovered in you hate to hate. He has a certain cour- walls 79%, read languages 30%. a campaign against the orcs) and tesy and gentility that most of the Zhen- Physical description: Pawldo is a caravan-running concerns into much tarim lack. He is an evil man, but he male halfling, brown-haired, an inch or coinage, and he maintains, in the guise does not want to spread his form of vil- two over 3’ in height. He is over 60 of a normal work force, a strong body- lainy all over the Inner Sea, as the Zhen- years old, with graying hair, but his guard of about 60 or 70 men-at-arms. tarim do. He wants to be left alone to smiling face is cleanshaven and free of This last shrewd measure undoubtedly oppress his workers, buy and sell wrinkles. has ensured his own survival in the slaves, and manipulate the minerals Equipment: Pawldo’s usual equip- noble heirarchy of Zhentil Keep markets for his own profit. ment is a short bow and a short sword. throughout the rise of the Zhentarim. If commanded by the Zhentarim to When he knows he is going into com- There have been several attempts on kill the characters, he will certainly try bat, he wears leather armor as he finds his life from rivals from among the to do so. His first priority is his own metal too constricting. Zhentarim, and all have failed, thanks well-being. Still, if he thought that the Personality: Pawldo is brave but to the watchfulness of his bodyguard. characters might put a spoke in the mildly pessimistic. He is likely to com- Manshoon considers Orgauth one of wheel of the Zhentarim advance, he ment on the hopelessness of a situation his “loyal opposition,” men who do not might look the other way and let them before going forth to prove himself see the wisdom in Zhentil Keep’s expan- continue, rather than reveal them to wrong. This is a last vestige of his heri-

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tage as a halfling, a race which, in gen- Kazgaroth. He helped rescue Finellen Piergeiron eral, prefers building a warm fire in a and Keren the bard from the firbolgs, hearth at home to burning out an orc lent his archery skills against the ARMOR CLASS: -1 village. Northmen invaders along the road to MOVE: 6” However, unlike his more staid kin- Caer Corwell, led the archers of his peo- Hit Points: 102 folk, Pawldo is an adventurer. He goes ple in the defense of Caer Corwell, and NO. OF ATTACKS: 2 where prudent halflings do not follow. accompanied his friends in the final bat- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type He has found a merchant’s life fits this tle against Kazgaroth — almost dying, (+1) penchant of his for exploration and except for the intervention of the God- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil excitement full well. However, he is dess when the monster was slain. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil likely to add a dash of larceny to his rec- The next year, he was selling phony MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ipe for successful merchantry, and is as crystals in Alaron when he saw Prince SIZE: M (6’4”) likely to running a confidence game as Tristan and Daryth being arrested by ALIGNMENT: Lawful Good he is to deal in honest merchandise. High King Carrathal’s Scarlet Guard, PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Motivations: Pawldo has three and acted to rescue them. From there, 16th-Level Human Paladin main motivations. The most important he spied on the high king and partici- S:17 I:14 W:16 D:14 C:15 CH:17 is friendship. In his early 50s he struck pated in the final battle against Cyndre, up an acquaintance with Prince Tristan High King Carrathal, and their duergar Piergeiron, “The Paladinson,” is a tall and Robyn, and this ripened into a and sahuagin allies. and muscular, strikingly handsome friendship that could not be broken by Finally, Pawldo joined Tristan and man with a firm jaw and dark eyes. His the most dire circumstances. Pawldo’s Robyn in the final battle against hair, curly and brown, is flecked with other two motivations are thrill seeking Hobarth and Bhaal himself. grey at the temples, but this only adds and greed. In many ways, these are two Other notes: Pawldo is an ideal to the regal aura of the noble man. aspects of the same motivation, for he introduction to the Moonshaes. His Of the reputed 16 Lords of Water- often attempts confidence games more merchant adventures take him deep, Piergeiron is the only one openly for the thrill of succeeding in fooling throughout the isles and to the Sword known and recognized, and as such, he people four times his size (by weight, Coast, and his stories of the glories of speaks for the others in matters con- anyway) than for the monetary reward. the Moonshaes, and perhaps some cerning the city. He is the commander Background notes: Pawldo is a hints of the possibilities of high adven- of the watch, warden of the guard, and merchant who was born and raised in ture in the mountains of the Jotunheim, overmaster of the guilds. His word is Lowhill in Corwell, but who has sailed or against the troll-folk of Moray, could law in the City of Splendors, even above all over the Sword Coast. lure adventurers across the sea from the guild law, and thus he is in a posi- He first made the acquaintance of the Sword Coast. tion to make many enemies. Prince Tristan when he sold the prince Moreover, Pawldo, while confident of Even if a foe was to catch the young some weapons he had gained on a mer- his own abilities, is not unaware that lord on one of the many instances that chanting trip. They talked of weapons the seas on which he travels can be full he is alone, he would find himself faced and hunting, and became hunting com- of dangers, and he has been known to by an opponent quite able to take care panions. Robyn, Tristan’s constant com- employ adventurers as guards for his of himself. Dressed in his full plate mail panion as a child, found that she also goods and person. armor and his shining shield +1, liked the little man, and willingly Pawldo is also inclined to get into emblazoned with golden scales atop the included him in on any plans they made trouble for a good cause. If a player head of a war hammer, the symbol of for adventuring. character befriends him, then gets into Tyr the even-handed, the Paladinson But every year Pawldo left to make a trouble with the authorities or some fears no battle and has yet to be bested. trading voyage among the Moonshaes powerful private citizen, Pawldo may He wields Clamorour, a holy avenger, and sometimes to the Sword Coast. One well come to his rescue, preferably the sword of his father, and though he year, he decided to deal in dogs and without having to directly assault any prefers diplomacy to battle, he fights arranged to find a hunting pack leader turnkeys. with the knowledge that he is blessed for his friend, the prince. On his travels Note that Pawldo is quick and sturdy, by his god. he found the great moor hound Can- but not incredibly strong. He does not thus and sold the dog to Prince Tristan. get involved in stand-up battles if he can “Yet, within Waterdeep, Piergeiron Since his travels for the year were help it — he’d much rather sit back and has little to fear. He handles his position done, he resumed his usual non- snipe with his bow and arrows. and authority with such caring and traveling place at Tristan’s side and dedication to his responsibility that the became enmeshed in the battle against Waterdhavians, even those with per-

92 MINOR CHARACTERS sonal grudges against him know that “The Arm of Tyr,” Athar roamed of him, and no longer does he walk in they could not find a better man for the throughout the North, vanquishing evil Athar’s shadow. Even Athar’s most position. The only ones who would and rescuing whole towns from perse- devoted admirers admit that his son want to bring harm to this Lord are cuting and unjust governments. The excels in ways the elder did not, ways those against the city itself. very name of Athar still brings a smile that might prove more important to the “... and his decree is the only absolute and a look of true love and admiration future of the Northland in general. law in this city of interpretation and to the faces of elders all across the land. For Piergeiron is just the type of lead- subtle evasion. As such, he is very safe It is said that Athar was once a Lord er who will transform the savage from Waterdhavians — and his life is of Waterdeep, but this has never been Northland into a united realm of peace. threatened by foreign powers, such as proven. His son, though, seemed des- Amn, Calimshan, and Luskan, for the tined for the position from very early in Zrie Prakis same reason; he is so above reproach, his life. Piergeiron, less a wanderer and so able in his administration and than his father, always believed that the ARMOR CLASS: 0 justice, that the city flourishes.” true fostering of the word of Tyr could MOVE: 6’ — from Waterdeep and the North be better achieved through a strong HIT DICE: 11 by Ed Greenwood central location, and thus, as soon as he Hit Points: 88 had earned respect through deeds of NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Piergeiron weighs his every word valor and conscience, he moved right DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d10 before he speaks it, and often, under- into the position offered him, becoming SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below standing the tact of silence, keeps his the only visible Lord of the city. SPECIAL DEFENSES: +1 or better thoughts to himself. When he does Even his greatest skeptics soon came weapon to hit speak, he enunciates every word slowly to understand the young man’s value MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard and deliberately, wanting those around and were silenced. In all the years Pier- INTELLIGENCE: Supra-geniuis him to fully grasp the exact meaning geiron has ruled the city, he has rarely ALIGNMENT: Neutral Evil and connotations of what he has to say. angered even the most selfish of guilds, SIZE: M Because of this cautious manner of and has become so well-loved by the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil speaking, some snicker his other nick- general populace that nobody, or no name, “The Thickskull,” behind his guild, would dare to strike against him Commonly used spells: Fireball, back. But they are unperceptive, or are in any case, fearing the inevitable, and lightning bolt, cloud kill, feeblemind, the ones who should rightly wear the brutal, reprisals that would surely mind blank, death spell, cacodemon, insulting mantle themselves. Far from befall them. guards and wards, contact other stupid, Piergeiron never forgets the Roleplaying tips: Piergeiron is a planes. weight of his position and understands gentle man who seems to walk secure Zrie Prakis’ appearance is enough to the many potential implications of his in the truth and righteousness of his strike fear into anyone’s heart. The every word. chosen course. Never will adventurers 18th-level lich is covered with age- He has heard the degrading nick- meet a man so comfortable in his way worn, rotting, translucent flesh, pulled name, and he has even laughed about it, of life and in his every action. He is tight over its skeleton. Its black, gaping not confusing the pride and execution pleasant and warm, though he doesn’t eye sockets contain pinpoints of sharp, of his office and his code with the speak much, and has a heart and man- red light. The undead sorcerer’s laugh destructive pride of self. And Pier- ner that give new heights to the mean- is hollow and deep. And like all liches, geiron is smart enough to use this mis- ing of generosity. Zrie Prakis’ touch causes 1d10 points of perception of his mental prowess to his He is comfortable in battle as well, freezing damage and paralyzes those advantage. If his political enemies knowing that Tyr supports his every who fail to make their saving throws. underestimate him, he correctly rea- move. He swings Clamorour easily and The staff of power he carries is equally sons, they will often slip up in their ably, and accepts the possibility of his deadly. dealings with him, not expecting him to own death without fear. The story of Zrie Prakis’ death at the pick up on the subtleties of the conver- Though Waterdeep bears little sem- hands of his lover Cassana is quite well sation. blance to Camelot, Piergeiron just known in the Realms, and is even the Piergeiron was born with large shoes might be the Forgotten Realms’ version subject of a popular opera performed to fill. He was the son of Athar, “The of King Arthur. He believes in justice, frequently in The Living City. The Shining Knight,” an adventuring paladin even for the poor, and executes it with opera makes the tale out to be a trag- who captured the imagination of the his every move and every word. “Might edy, though it is more commonly told as whole Northland with his daring and for right” would be an apt motto. a horror story. Zrie Prakis is seen as a heroic accomplishments. Also called Certainly his father would be proud kind of bogeyman throughout the

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Realms, and parents often invoke his Prakis or his allies will certainly natural armor class, but will only take name to keep young children in line. encounter creatures such as the crystal 10 points of damage before it splits and Zrie Prakis met the sorceress Cassana elemental he brought to this plane to falls apart. After the host is destroyed, many years ago while they were both capture Alias. the kalmari will emerge, making a noise apprentices, just beginning their stud- In his first incarnation as a lich, how- like a thousand hissing snakes. The ies of the magical arts. They fell in love, ever, Zrie Prakis was a servant of Cas- kalmari can only stay on this plane pledged their eternal faithfulness, then sana, and thus completely subject to without a host or magical shell for 10 were forced to part. her will. In fact, he was only one of a minutes. After that time, it is sent hur- During the years of their separation, number of creatures that served the tling back to Acheron. both Zrie Prakis and Cassana grew very dark sorceress. If encountered as a ser- The kalmari’s jaws inflict 1d10 points powerful. The mage also grew obses- vant of Cassana, he will likely be only of damage and its tail only 1d6. How- sively proud of himself and what he part of a larger force of monsters — like ever, the kalmari can entangle a victim considered his unique powers. Zrie the kalmari. with its tail when it hits with a natural Prakis adopted for his sigil three inter- 20. Only when the tail is severed, by locking rings, a common enough sym- Kalmari doing 10 points of damage specifically bol in the Realms, but decided that it to it, is the victim free. Otherwise the FREQUENCY: Very Rare should be his symbol alone. He adventurer is helpless. NO. APPEARING: 1 destroyed an ale house in Sembia sim- It is the mouth of the kalmari that is ARMOR CLASS: -6 (see below) ply because the innkeep happened to most feared, however. Though the MOVE: 6” choose three interlocking rings to grace kalmari’s bite is not deadly, the monster HIT DICE: 3 his sign. can swallow a creature whole on any % IN LAIR: 100% It is not surprising then, that when hit over 20% (4 or more over the TREASURE TYPE: Nil Zrie Prakis met Cassana again, he tried required number to hit) or on a natural NO. OF ATTACKS: 2 to prove himself the greater mage. He 20. The creatures will be digested in a DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d10/1d6 was not, and Cassana killed him in prov- number of rounds equal to its level or SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below ing it. Cassana gathered Zrie Prakis’ number of hit dice. After that time, the SPECIAL DEFENSES: +2 or better remains and kept them in a glass sar- creature cannot be resurrected. The weapons to hit (see below) cophagus next to her bed. Eventually, kalmari will not attempt to swallow MAGIC RESISTANCE: 100% she resurrected him as a lich. anything else until the creature is dead. INTELLIGENCE: Average Zrie Prakis’ existence was linked to The kalmari’s one weakness is that it ALIGNMENT: Neutral Evil Cassana’s wand, and the sorceress used cannot digest magic. It will vomit up SIZE: M it to control her undead lover. The clos- any magic item swallowed with a crea- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil er Zrie Prakis remained to the wand, ture immediately upon the death of the the greater his power. And though the creature possessing it. The kalmari can The kalmari in its natural state is an wand kept Zrie Prakis from acting be slain with any magical weapon amorphous being of a mistlike consist- directly against Cassana, he plotted which it has eaten once and rejected. ency with a 3’ long, tapering tail. The against her from the day she brought These weapons have an added +2 to most striking thing about the kalmari is him back from the dead. hit the kalmari, and also gain +2 to the its jaws, which seem to stretch almost The lich was destroyed again in the damage bonus they normally possess, all the way around its body. Set below battle that finally brought down Cas- but only against that kalmari. Note, too, the kalmari’s two unblinking yellow sana. When the sorceress’s wand was that a kalmari can only be slain with a eyes, the mouth is filled with huge cast into a parallel dimension, the weapon it once ate and weapons eaten pointed teeth. However, adventurers source of Zrie Prakis’ existence was cut and rejected by other kalmari are treat- are likely to first encounter the kalmari and he tumbled to dust. Liches are not ed as normal magic weapons. while it is possessing a host from this so easily destroyed, however, and the plane. Realms may hear from Zrie Prakis To be called to this plane, a kalmari again. must possess a body made of materials Zrie Prakis was a vengeful creature, from this plane. It prefers to possess a capable of great evil. He served Cassana living host, which it then devours from well, though he constantly sought ways the inside, but will also be contained by to be free of her control. The lich often a non-living shell created to give it full contacted other planes and summoned use of its terrible jaws. horrible creatures to serve the sorcer- The body being possessed retains its ess. Those who seek to conquer Zrie

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Rauglothgar He was one of the first dragons to Attacks by elemental means no longer undergo the complicated and lengthy get special bonuses due to its undead FREQUENCY: Unique ritual to become a dracolich. As the status. Once it wins a single battle as a NO. APPEARING: 1 years passed, his hoard grew, and lich, the dracolich is immune to fear of ARMOR CLASS: -2 Rauglothgar began to become bored. all sorts, including magical and psionic. MOVE: 9”/24” Eternal life was an insidious curse, soon As would be expected of any undead HIT DICE: 11 becoming eternal boredom. With the creature, it has no need to eat, except to Hit Points: 88 cult at his beck and call, and his lich sta- fuel its breath weapon, and no longer NO. OF ATTACKS: 3 (claw/claw/bite) tus, no one could stand against him. sleeps. DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8/1d8/3d10 Then came a slip of girl, brought to All physical attacks made by the dra- SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below him by the cult arch-mage The Shadow- colich add 2d8 points of chilling dam- SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below sil, whose virgin blood he would use to age, similar to human liches. A save vs. MAGIC RESISTANCE: Save as 22 hit dice maintain his lichdom. A puny female paralyzation is required, or the victim is monster who was no threat to his lowest servant paralyzed for 2d6 rounds by the touch. ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Evil let alone the great Rauglothgar the Once every three days the dracolich SIZE: L Proud. But this nothing of a human can attempt to control undead (as the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil could wield spellfire! The very touch of potion) creatures within 6”. it broke down the magic holding his life To meet the gaze of a dracolich (with- Created by the Cult of the Dragon, force to his body. His mightiest magics in 4” of it) can be dangerous. Creatures Rauglothgar was the second most pow- and burning breath could not touch under six hit dice are paralyzed instant- erful dracolich in the Realms, behind her, in fact they merely fed her power. ly, while the dracolich holds that gaze. only the blue, huge great wyrm Shar- Rauglothgar died at the hands of All others must save at +3. Once a save grailar. He was a dracolich so long, that Shandril Shessair, wielder of spellfire, is made, that particular dracolich can the preserved flesh and hide finally just in the caverns under the Tower Tran- no longer paralyze that creature by wore out and fell apart, much like a quil, his lair in the Thunder Peaks. gaze. man’s favorite pair of shoes. He is now a Present at the time were the sage and The cult plays an active role in the huge skeletal form with glowing red arch-mage Elminster, and several activities of all known dracoliches. lights floating in his eye sockets. adventurers of no consequence to him, They provide them with treasure and Rauglothgar was already old by the the Knights of Myth Drannor. They teach them the most powerful spells time man came to the Thunder Peaks. plundered his hoard, leaving only the they can learn. A large and powerful In his youth, he had flown and fought lesser coins and gems, and none of the party is always near the dracolich, fre- against many of his kind, completely magic items. quently worshiping within sight of it. clearing the air space above the Thun- Powers of a dracolich: A draco- When a dracolich dies, its life force der Peaks of other dragonkind. His lich has all the normal dragon powers it flees to a prepared corpse of a dra- hoard was the largest ever assembled had in life, including spell casting abili- gonkin creature, in the case of by a dragon. ty, Physical attacks and breath weapons Rauglothgar, a fire drake. If this ani- He watched as men began to carve are as usual, and spells are cast as if by a mated corpse can consume 10% of the empires from the Inner Sea lands. He magic-user of level equal to the dragon’s remaining flesh of the dracolich within watched them battle the kobolds, orcs, hit dice. Therefore, Rauglothgar casts one phase of the moon, it will slowly and bugbears for passage through his spells as if he were an 11th-level mage. metamorphose into a body exactly like mountains. He grew afraid, for man They can detect hidden and invisible original dracolich. No one knows if this brought magic, magic even more pow- creatures within 1” per age level (8” for has happened with Rauglothgar, but it erful than he could wield. Magic power- Rauglothgar), and cause fear in crea- is sure that the Cult of the Dragon will ful enough to slay Rauglothgar. tures under six hit dice. do all it can to see that it does. If so, he As men populated the Inner Sea Its new powers are largely immuni- will lose 1d8 hit points permanently to lands, Rauglothgar flew less often, and ties. Like human liches, a dracolich is grow his new body, just like all draco- other dragonkind began to return to immune to charm, sleep, enfeeblement, liches. His new body will be fully the Thunder Peaks. When the cult polymorph, cold (of any sort), electrici- fleshed for decades to come, if it sur- approached him with their offer of ty, insanity and death spells or symbols. vives that long. eternal life, eternal strength, and It can not be controlled by any item of immunity to many powerful magics, he dragon control, and it cannot be turned readily agreed. It helped that they by a cleric regardless of level. In addi- offered to increase his already stagger- tion, the dracolich is immune to poison, ing hoard. paralysis, or being magically held.

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Regis his disarming smile). and took out for the road, envisioning a Of course, Regis is not above using life of comfort as a guild master in some ARMOR CLASS: 4 the ruby to get other things that he other city. MOVE: 12” might desire. He is a master of comfort, But Pook proved more determined Hit Points: 26 perfecting the fine arts of eating and than Regis had anticipated, and wher- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 sleeping. If he can charm someone into ever the halfling went, Pook’s men soon DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type inviting him over for dinner, or into appeared. Finally, afters years on the SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil offering him some small trinket that run, Regis made his way to Ten-Towns, SPECIAL DEFENSES: Lucky streak; +2 they probably don’t really want any- believing this remote frontier settle- to all saves and +10% to all thieving way, then what is the harm? ment to be beyond the long arms of functions (see below) Yet not everyone adheres to this phi- Pook. He made many friends there, par- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard losophy, and Regis runs from a dark ticularly his fellow Companions of the SIZE: S (3”) past indeed. Hall and Catti-brie, earned a fine living ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good He was born in or around the south- as a scrimshander (especially after he PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil ern city of Calimport; exactly where or learned just how effective the hypnotiz- Fight-Level Halfling Thief when, he does not know, nor does he ing gem could be), and was even once S:10 I:13 W:15 D:17 C:15 CH:15 have any idea of who his parents were. elected a spokesman for one of the His earliest recollections are of a child- towns. And after the great victory over Regis the halfling, or “Rumblebelly,” hood spent alone on the street, begging Akar Kessell’s goblinoid army, Regis as Bruenor calls him, is the most dimin- and stealing, and then being adopted by somehow came out as the hero and was utive member of the Companions of the some kind-hearted “ladies” of one of awarded, again with a little help from Hall. Barely 3’ high (with the fluff of his Calimport’s numerous brothels. He the ruby, the finest palace in all Icewind curly brown locks) and with a belly too lived in the house for several years, Dale and uncounted gifts of food and round and legs too short for the road, learning the ways and wiles of the fine clothing. He had found his true call- Regis may appear to be more of a hin- world, until the ladies introduced him ing, by his estimation, and thought that drance than an asset to his fellow com- to one of their most prominent clients, he would live out the rest of his life in panions. Pasha Pook, master of a powerful comfort and luxury. But Bruenor, Drizzt, and Wulfgar thieves guild. But it all came crashing down around know better than to estimate the half- Regis intrigued Pook. With his inno- him in the spring after the battle, when ling’s worth in physical stature alone. cent looks, diminutive size, and nimble Artemis Entreri, Pook’s prime assassin, Witty, crafty, and blessed with more fingers, the halfling showed great arrived in Bryn Shander. Preferring life than his share of good luck, Regis potential for the trade. Regis did not on the road beside his formidable always seems to land on his feet, in the disappoint. His eyes at a person’s belt friends to death in a palace, no matter right place, and at the right time. He level, he could slip through the packed how fine, Regis took Bruenor up on an wears leather armor and fights, when crowd at Calimport’s renowned open earlier offer and rushed out onto the he absolutely has no other choice, with market, picking the fattest purses, and open tundra to join the Companions of a little +2 mace that Bruenor made for his ability to pull off a confidence scam the Hall as they began their quest for him. was unsurpassed by any in the guild. Mithril Hall. Regis has carried the weapon for sev- He rose up fast through the ranks, Roleplaying tips: Regis is good- eral years, but it certainly isn’t worn becoming a burglar in only a few short natured, good-humored, and not mali- from use. He abhors violence, especial- years. cious in the least. Last in battle, and ly when it is directed at him, and if his But except for those at the very top proud of it, he strikes only when he has words can’t get him out of a fight, his lit- echelons of power, life in a thieves’ run out of other options, or in defense tle legs have been known to outrun a guild is hard work. And Regis, too in of a friend (and hopefully from behind). thrown spear. Many times, Regis has love with comfort, soon ran out of He does his share of mischief, though avoided battle by using his ruby pen- patience for his climb to the top. He (more than his share), but never sets dant, a magical charm that casts a form wanted a shortcut. out to hurt anybody. And a good por- of hypnosis over anyone viewing it, The opportunity came unexpectedly tion of Regis’ extraordinary luck lies in opening them up to suggestions (as the a few years later. Regis discovered that his ability to temper his actions with third-level magic-user spell) of the half- Pook employed a magical ruby in his good sense. He rarely outright steals ling. The ruby’s magic is quite powerful dealings, a charm that lent him an anything, preferring subtle cons, and and all saves against its hypnotic web advantage over his adversaries and tries hard not to do anything that will are made at -2 ( -4 if Regis is using the influence over his allies. Regis promptly set someone after him further down gemstone along with his charisma and relieved his guild master of the ruby the road. He uses his ruby with similar

96 MINOR CHARACTERS caution. she has been cornered many times by she knows how. Such was certainly the But Regis is weak in the face of temp- well-traveled folk who claim to have case when she was convinced by the tation, and if someone, even a friend, seen the “real” Olav Ruskettle perform, evil pseudo-halfling Phalse to help him possesses something that he truly Olive always manages to lie her way out track the swordswoman Alias. Though desires, and if the opportunity presents of the confrontation, often claiming Alias had rescued Olive from the itself in the right way . . . that the person who claimed to be Olav dragon Mist, who had kidnapped her, Ruskettle was someone who was trying Olive had seen Alias attack someone for Olive Ruskettle to steal her name and pass himself off no particular reason, and had heard as a bard. about her attack on a cleric. The ARMOR CLASS: 6 Though she claims to be from the swordswoman seemed, as Phalse point- MOVE: 12” Cormyr, no one has ever been able to ed out, a very dangerous woman. While Hit Points: 29 pin down Olive’s true home. The hazel- this was certainly a substantial incen- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 eyed, red-haired halfling prefers it that tive to aid in her capture, Phalse also DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type way, too. Though she is charismatic and offered Olive a great deal of money. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil attractive, she realizes her past as a When Olive discovered she had allied SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil thief could cause her a number of prob- herself with the wrong party, that Alias MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil lems if it were discovered. was not a menace and her creators SIZE: S But this does not mean Olive has for- were extremely evil and dangerous, ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Neutral saken her thieving abilities or retired as Olive helped rescue Akabar Bel Akash PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil a practitioner of the thieving arts. In from Cassana’s dungeon, and then Pseudo Bard and Sixth-Level Halfling fact, Olive has found the ability to pick helped foil the sorceress’s plans to gain Thief pockets with finesse and open locks complete control of Alias. S:11 I:12 W:7 D:18 C:15 CH:13/17 to oth- with ease quite a benefit to her life as a Olive’s adventures with Alias gained er halflings performer. Patrons who refuse to pay her a myriad of new songs to sing, and her what she feels she deserves for her Olive is even planning on composing a Weapon proficiencies: Dagger. singing often end up missing their long work telling the adventures of Ali- Non-weapon proficiencies: purses when Olive leaves. as and her companions. The piece, enti- Reading/writing, alertness, running. Olive is only 3’ tall, which is short tled “The Magic Arm Chronicles,” may Adventurers familiar with bards and even for a halfling. Because of this, and take the form of a book or a lay. Olive the limitations barding colleges put on the taller races’ general reaction to half- has yet to start it. the induction of halflings will realize lings as a cute — though somewhat In addition to a number of wonderful instantly upon meeting the famous prone to pilfering — race of beings, songs and a wealth of material for new Olive Ruskettle that she cannot possibly Olive tends to react strongly against tales, Olive gained another very special be a true bard. anyone who treats her as less than an gift from her adventures with Alias. In fact, Olive not only isn’t a true equal. For example, people who might Because the halfling helped to rescue bard, she has never had formal bardic pat Olive on the head or pick her up, the Nameless Bard from Cassana’s training, and the renown attached to would find themselves barraged by dungeon, the true bard, a Harper, gave her name has been slightly misplaced, caustic insults and perhaps even fists Olive his small, silver harp and crescent though Olive has done all she can to fos- and feet. moon pin, the symbol of the Harpers. ter the confusion. The halfling also hates those who rig- The Nameless Bard was once banished The halfling who claims to be Olive idly follow the tenets of a specific align- to the awesome Citadel of White Exile Ruskettle is really a thief who has ment, and especially loathes paladins. for attempting to create a being to keep always aspired to a life of entertaining Olive is insecure about her past as a his songs alive forever. It is unknown if people and the easy living that profes- thief and really doesn’t consider herself the Harpers will punish him even more sion can bring. Her name is not even a common pickpocket. She believes she severely when they learn of this act — Olive Ruskettle; the halfling won the is only taking what is her due, and often one that could certainly cause more name and the reputation of Olav that is the case. Those who see the annoyance for the Harpers and the Ruskettle, a true and famous bard, in a world through the blinders of a rigor- Realms than any of the Nameless Bard’s dice game. Since that time, “Olive” has ous devotion to either Law or Chaos, earlier mistakes. done her best to maintain her image as Good or Evil, often fail to see the validi- Dungeon Masters running Olive a bard of great talent. ty of Olive’s perspective. should emphasize her desire to become Olive’s glib tongue, boisterous per- In fact, Olive finds she is quite often a true bard and, at the same time, the sonality, and fair talent for singing and mistaken for a villain when she is sim- chaotic side of her character that pre- playing have carried her far. Though ply taking care of herself the best way vents her from doing so. Players will

97 MINOR CHARACTERS find Olive interested in any stories or fumed, dressed revealingly and loung- killed her master and escaped, Kitten songs they can relate to her, though she ing in an alley or bar at the docks. She found herself fighting an evil demigod will often get bored if the telling is long dons less distinctive garb to follow peo- (“The Godson,” son of Bane) toe-to-toe or the tale too philosophical. ple in the streets without being noticed. with blades when a summoning by a In return for any stories told to her, Equipment: Kitten always carries company of adventurers went awry. or food and drink sent her way, Olive her dagger +2 and, if she anticipates After that experience, she decided that will regale the adventurers with the sto- combat or other physical danger, puts a thief and entertainer’s life in Water- ry of Alias’ quest to discover the mean- on her leather armor +1. Otherwise, deep was preferable to taking on the ing of her azure bonds. Of course, the she depends on her wiles, her dexterity, likes of demigods. However, the Godson halfling will emphasize, and even and her ring of invisibility remembers Kitten, and may yet have expand, her part in the adventure. Personality: Kitten is fierce, with occasion to pay her another visit. Olive loves strong drink and has a an occasionally savage temper. She is a Over 10 years ago, after Kitten had very strong constitution. For a person hard-bitten entertainer and sometime been back in Waterdeep for three of such small stature and slight build, thief of Waterdeep’s docks, who is ser- years, she was recognized by Mirt and Olive eats and drinks quite heavily. vile to no one. She regards Mirt, recruited by Mirt and Khelben to the Player characters attempting to match Durnan, Larissa, and Khelben as her ranks of the Lords of Waterdeep. her will likely find themselves far out- dear friends and delights in relaxing Kitten was never a member of the classed. with them when she is not on the thieves guild. As a practical matter, she When the tales are over and the food streets or poking about in the goods of was happy when the Lords drove the and drink gone, Olive will depart, pay- this or that suspicious visitor to the city. thieves out. It made her life a lot easier. ing as little as possible of the bill. She distrusts such paragons as Pier- Other notes: Kitten is familiar with geiron, Texter, and Caladorn (though the sewers of Waterdeep and the roofs Nymara “Kitten” she has found that Caladorn can enjoy a in many districts, using them as high- bit of slumming, if the conditions are ways that are faster and less crowded Scheiron, of sufficiently controlled that he doesn’t than the streets. Waterdeep come too close to the real world). Kitten is an NPC that characters wan- Motivations: Kitten is a practical dering the seamier side of Waterdeep ARMOR CLASS: 2 person, and this outlook influences the could encounter any time. As an enter- MOVE: 12” details of many an action by the Lords. tainer, she has lost the bloom of youth, Hit Points: 42 She knows how this or that decree will but is well-experienced. Characters NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 appear to, or work among, the common might also find her acting uncommonly DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d4 + 2 folk. nosy about the doings of passers-by or SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil Kitten will not take a copper piece what is in their parcels. The passers-by SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil from her fellow Lords, fiercely reject- would not notice, of course, but sharp- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ing any gifts or charity. Deep inside, she eye player characters would. SIZE: M feels the ability to influence the work of Alternately, if characters are being ALIGNMENT: Neutral the Lords is its own reward, though she secretive about their doings, they might PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil prizes her reputation for toughness too find Kitten nosing around their posses- Seventh-Level Human Thief much to ever say such a thing to her sions and accommodations. An attempt S:14 I:15 W:15 D:18 C:16 CH:16 friends. to run off a nosy thief could suddenly Background notes: Few people, land the characters in much trouble Thief skills: Pick pocket 70%, open even among the Lords of Waterdeep, with the Lords. And, of course, if every- locks 67%, find/remove traps 55%, know Kitten’s full name. They just thing is settled amicably and the Lords move silently 65%, hide in shadows know her as “Kitten the Entertainer,” are satisfied that there is nothing unto- 53%, hear noise 25%, climb walls 94%, and leave it at that. No one but her fel- ward in the characters’ actions (as long and read languages 35%. low Lord, Larissa Neathal, knows that as they haven’t killed or maimed Kit- Physical description: Nymara she spent most of her younger years as ten), then perhaps they will have Scheiron is a brunette, tousle-haired an adventurer. Even Larissa does not impressed the Lords enough to make and lush-figured female of middle know that she is actually the daughter the Lords want to use them in some years. of a noble house of Silverymoon, and mission of interest to Waterdeep and Nymara can appear as a stunningly ran away from an arranged marriage to the world. beautiful lady of high station if she become an adventurer. Another hook to bring the characters wishes to do so (very rare), but is more After many adventures, including a into contact with the Lords would be often found heavily made up and per- year as a Zhentarim slave until she for them to rescue Kitten from an over-

98 MINOR CHARACTERS

aggressive would-be customer. Of Physical description: Storm is a thiefly skills were of no use, but her nat- course, she could have handled the situ- tall, striking, well-muscled human ural strength of arm (she is the strong- ation herself, but she would appreciate female. She has hair of silvery hue and est of the sisters) slew the foe. the assistance, particularly if the res- blue-gray eyes. She wears a silver ring She adopted the class of fighter and cuers are good-looking young men. and a tiara, and a silver bracer on her soon proved her natural talent for the Again, this puts the characters into con- right wrist bearing her badge, a silver fighting life. Then she met the druid tact with the Lords without realizing it, moon and a silver harp on a black field. Briadorn of the Circle of Shadowdale, and gives at least one Lord a reason to Equipment: Storm bears a luck and it changed her life, as he praised keep an eye on them and possibly blade +1, which has one wish left. Her her voice and suggested that she pur- recruit them for future problem- silver ring is a ring of protection +2 sue the life of a bard. solving. and she wears a set of elfin chain mail Normally, she would not have been And of course, for player characters +2 under her normal flowing robes. accepted as a bard because she had pur- with a taste for fighting demigods, The tiara acts as a ring of fire resistance sued her two vocations of thief and there is the menace of The Godson (see in all ways, including precluding the fighter in the wrong order, but her tal- FR6, DREAMS OF THE RED WIZARDS wearing of another magical ring. The ent and motivation were so obvious for statistics), who wanders the Realms bracer is just an item of jewelry that that the druids allowed her into their on his father’s business (and surrepti- protects her arm when shooting a bow. circle as a bard. Since that time, her tiously supports the Zhentarim to Storm also has a sling +1 and 12 bul- voice has been raised in song in the thwart his demanding father) and may lets +2. She has recently acquired a cause of good all over the Inner Sea. find the chance to come to Waterdeep Methild’s harp (see FR4, THE MAGIS- Long a resident of Shadowdale, she and look up old friends. TER) and is now learning how to use it. used her home as a base for long, far- Personality: Storm has always traveling, adventures for her own gain Storm Silverhand been adventurous and a lover of risks. (particularly when she was young and She is quick with a laugh and a song, learning the arts of a thief) and to fur- ARMOR CLASS: -2 and has little of the grimness that ther the ends of the Harpers. Storm is MOVE: 12” marked her sister Sylune and still sometimes referred to as “The Harper Hit Points: 74 marks Alustriel of Silverymoon and of Shadowdale.” NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 The Simbul. Storm’s longtime companion, Maxan, DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d8 + 4 Motivations: Initially, Storm was was recently destroyed by demons in SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use motivated by a lust for adventure and the same adventure in which she SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil gain. Later, she began to realize that the acquired the Methild’s harp, and Storm MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Realms needed a force to balance the has turned away from the bold and SIZE: M evil of the Zhentarim and Red Wizards, wild adventures she enjoyed with him. ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good and helped her sister Sylune found the She still acts as an adviser to Doust of PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Harpers. Now she works in her own Shadowdale and stands ready to pro- Seventh-Level Human Bard way for the preservation of the Realms tect her village from invaders. Seventh-Level Fighter from those who would ravage them for Other notes: Storm Silverhand is a Fifth-Level Thief their own gain. fund of information for the adventurer S:18(27) I:15 W:15 D:17 C:16 CH:15 Background notes: Of the famous operating from the Dales. While she has five sisters (the others are the ranger little inclination to adventure herself, Thief skills: Pick pocket 65%, open Dove, Alustriel of Silverymoon, The she is still ready to assist the Harpers in locks 62%, find/remove traps 50%, Simbul, and the now-deceased witch any way she can, which includes train- move silently 60%, hide in shadows Sylune), Storm is the youngest and most ing promising young bards. 48%, hear noise 25%, climb walls 94%, spoiled. Like all of the sisters, she was Moreover, as a bard, she is a fund of and read languages 35%. encouraged to follow the path that legend lore information about magic Bard skill: Charm person 34% attracted her, and that was the path of items found by adventurers, and she chance and legend lore 16% chance. the rogue, or thief. For several years will do what she can for those she feels Commonly known druid spells: she built up her proficiency in the fit the goals of her organization. • First-level — Detect magic, pass roguish arts until she met Maxan, a Since she is somewhat sedentary without trace, speak with animals. fighter of Lawful Good tendencies who these days, Storm and her friends in • Second-level — Cure light wounds tried to persuade her that she would be Shadowdale, such as Elminster, have x2, produce flame. a better fighter than thief. She denied become something of a central clearing- • Third-level — Cure disease, neu- his blandishments until they were house for Harper information. tralize poison. involved in a battle in which all of her Also, while Storm’s sense of adven-

99 MINOR CHARACTERS ture was quelled with the death of her magic and protection from evil on her- Lapendrar (1260) and his sister, the sor- longtime companion, the spark is still self with a permanency spell, and used ceress Ilione, took the throne, The Sim- there, particularly because she now has a wish to give herself permanent use of bul was a young woman, just starting an instrument that could be very useful Serten’s spell immunity.. out in her career as a magic-user. in adventuring. She does not admit it to Physical description: The Simbul However, Ilione had heard of her herself, but she is looking for a small is a tall, silver-haired human lady with through The Simbul’s sister, Sylune, band that could use her assistance. the striking good looks shared by her and invited the young mage to join her sisters. In court (which is rare), she as her apprentice and heir. The Simbul The Simbul wears purple and blue gowns with sil- arrived shortly after receiving the invi- ver trim. When wandering, she wears tation and immediately began learning ARMOR CLASS: -4 gray exclusively. No one has noticed a all the knowledgeable Ilione could MOVE: 12’ change in her appearance since she impart and gaining the confidence of Hit Points: 75 took the throne of Aglarond, 38 years the half-elves of her adopted country. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 ago. Ilione died during the Great Plague of DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d4 + 3 Equipment: The Simbul prefers to The Inner Sea in 1320. The Simbul SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use use her own magics and talents to using ascended to the throne, already mighty SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil magic items, but she does carry an in magic, and is still the ruler of MAGIC RESISTANCE: Serten’s spell impressive array of magic items which Aglarond. Her awesome magical immunity she rarely uses. powers have kept the forces of Thay SIZE: M In particular, The Simbul usually from overwhelming her kingdom. She ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Neutral (with wears a set of bracelets which are brac- is a mysterious, lonely arch-mage Good tendencies) ers of defense AC1 and a ring of spell whose proper name is known only to PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil storing and a ring of shooting stars. She her sisters (Sylune of Shadowdale, now 27th-Level Human Magic-User has a staff of power which she used in deceased; Alustriel of Silverymoon; the S:14 I:18 W:15 D:18 C:16 CH:17 earlier days, but it is largely depleted bard Storm Silverhand; and the ranger and usually resides in a (well guarded) Dove), and whose true name is secret Commonly remembered spells: place of honor in her apartments in even from them. The Simbul travels • First-level — Comprehend languag- Aglarond. widely in many planes, shape shifting es, friends, magic missile, read She also has a selection of wands, constantly. magic. including several of the rare wands Other notes: Besides being an awe- • Second-level — Detect invisibility, described in FR4, THE MAGISTER, and some opponent to any character com- ray of enfeeblement, scare, web. several other rings of magic. When she ing from Thay, The Simbul is an • Third-level — Clairvoyance, dispel is in Aglarond, she will inscribe scrolls excellent NPC for instigating player magic, fireball, phantasmal force. for her assistants. character activity in Thay. She is contin- • Fourth-level — Charm monster, Personality: She can be ruthless if ually looking for information about confusion, polymorph other, wall necessary, but usually avoids combat if Thay and agents to satisfy her needs for of fire. possible. She prefers the subtle use of action in Thay. At this time, she is mak- • Fifth-level — Conjure fire elemen- magic to the blatant, but if cornered, ing a circuit of the Eastern Realms, look- tal, extension II, telekinesis, wall of will unleash her full arsenal. ing for information and assistance. She force. Motivations: The Simbul’s principal can find the player characters and ask • Sixth-level — Chain lightning, con- motivation is to preserve her small them to assist her. In the Realms, if The tingency, globe of invulnerability, country of Aglarond against the might Simbul asks, you fulfill her needs. She’s project image. of Thay and the machinations of other a good friend, and a deadly enemy. • Seventh-level — Banishment, lim- surrounding realms. She also seeks to Encountering the Simbul can happen ited wish, Mordenkainen’s sword, work mysterious ends understandable at any time. While she prefers to wear power word: stun. only to herself. grey, she can be garbed in anything, • Eighth-level — Incendiary cloud, These mysterious ends take her on and uses her many contacts throughout mass charm, polymorph any long expeditions, usually shape the Realms, even in Zhentil Keep, to object. changed, to nations all around the produce an identity in keeping with the • Ninth-level — Meteor swarm, Inner Sea — forming alliances and pro- land through which she is wandering. shape change, The Simbul’s synes- viding examples to those who might Too, The Simbul is as apt to appear as todwoemer (see FR4, THE MAGIS- menace herself or her nation. a gray cat, or wolf, or dark-plumaged TER, for description). Background notes: When King eagle or hawk. If the characters are act- The Simbul has also placed detect Halacar of Aglarond died in the Battle of ing surreptitiously in enemy territory,

100 MINOR CHARACTERS they may find a spider growing into a cations at all — her most powerful remains clumsy and uncomfortable in statuesque woman who wants to enlist offensive spell is web. Sydney is his con- such situations and with the charm their aid or assist them, if they are nection to the outside world, and is spells, and has never fully exploited the meeting her ends. most effective in a manipulative role. possibilities open before her. And her ends are as mysterious as Her spellbook, therefore is filled with She has spent all of her 25 years in rumored. In other words, the DM can spells such as charm person, and defen- Luskan, the daughter of a weaver- make them whatever he pleases to ful- sive spells such as wizard lock, shield, woman and a merchant sailor. Her fam- fill the needs of his campaign, However, and protection from normal missiles. ily was not rich, but neither was it poor, remember that they should be many- Perhaps to make up for the limited living a modest life in a comfortable layered and convoluted, and she will offensive power he has granted her, apartment near the center of the city. never say what her real goals are. Dendybar has bestowed great gifts Often young Sydney would stare out of upon his prize student, and Sydney, her window at the wondrous, tree-like Sydney though she prefers to exercise her own towers of the Hosttower of the Arcane magical prowess, is quick to grab at her and dream of studying the secrets of ARMOR CLASS: 9 wand of lightning bolts (83 charges) in a the universe. This was much to her MOVE: 12” tight situation. Also, she keeps a mirror mother’s dismay, for the woman want- Hit Points: 16 of mental prowess in her small room at ed only one thing from her only daugh- NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 the Hosttower of the Arcane. Her ter: grandchildren. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or spellbook holds numerous spells for a But Sydney had other aspirations, spell mage of her level, and Sydney typically and when she enrolled in, and clearly SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use leaves the Hosttower after memorizing: won, the Challenge of the Aspiring Wiz- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil • First-level — Charm person, com- ards, a test of mental prowess conduct- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Standard prehend languages, shield x 2. ed every fifth year by the Hosttower to SIZE: M (5“5’) • Second-level — Web, wizard lock. discern if any potential wizards might ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Neutral • Third-level — Protection from nor- be found among the general populace, PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil mal missiles, haste. the powerful lobby of the Hosttower Sixth-Level Magic-User The “chicken-or-the-egg” dilemma came into play on her side. Even the S:8 I:18 W:14 D:15 C:12 CH:11 applies wholeheartedly to Sydney. It is controlling merchants in Luskan difficult to determine if her lack of adhere to the few, but emphatic, Not an overly attractive woman, the physical attractiveness contributed to demands of the city’s wizards, and Syd- young mage Sydney devotes all of her her burning desire for the magical arts, ney’s parents had no choice but to give energies to her obsession with power. or if her obsession with power stunted in to her wishes. She is heavyset and a bit too sqare- her social growth. Certainly she is rath- Her very first interview upon joining shouldered, her dress frumpy, and her er plain-looking, but what Sydney truly the order was with the tower’s second hair unkempt, and she generally lacks is an inner glow of beauty. in command, Dendybar, and thus the presents an indifferent, even antagonis- Ironically, the absence of those social relationship was begun. tic attitude to any advances on a social wiles hinders Sydney in her quest for And now, fully convinced that the level. But though she is not the most lik- power. Dendybar gave her the mirror guiding fates have set aside a special able person around, no one can deny of mental prowess, and the first spell he and brightly burning star just for her, the sharpness of her mind. ever taught her was charm person, Sydney drives herself into her work Certainly Dendybar, one of the most because he understands the special with passion, absorbing every word powerful wizards in all of Luskan, advantage a female mage in the North- her master utters and pouring through understands the potential in the wom- land enjoys. Wizards like wizards; ordi- the magical tomes each night until her an. He took Sydney under his tutelage nary folk don’t trust them or eyes sting from the candle smoke, sacri- after only one encounter with her, understand them, and men outnumber ficing her very existence for the all- moreso to prevent one of the other wiz- women 10-to-1 in the magic-user circles consuming obsession. ards from snatching her up than to fill of the North. Sydney has many would- Roleplaying tips: Sydney is quick- any need he might have had for a pro- be suitors despite herself, one Harkle ly bored with new people, having no tege. Perhaps the best indicator of just Harpell of the Longsaddle Harpells in interest in anything they might do how powerful Sydney might someday particular, who offer her lessons, infor- unless it affects her future. become is the measure of care and cau- mation, even minor magic items in an She is learning — slowly — the arts of tion with which Dendybar is bringing attempt to win her favor. But while Syd- manipulation, and will play up to any her along. He has taught her mostly ney has no reservations whatsoever mage who might be of use to her. But defensive spells and no destructive evo- about taking advantage of someone, she any interest Sydney shows in anybody

101 MINOR CHARACTERS will be for selfish reasons. She is devoid ited wish. Upon the death of her husband, of sympathy and empathy, caring not at • Eighth-level — Maze, permanency Aumry, she fought against a number of all for the sufferings of others. In her • Ninth-level — Shape change. evil usurpers, overcame them, and then distorted perception, her existence is Physical description: Sylune was kept peace in the dale, working to all that matters, even to the point a human female — stikingly beautiful, achieve this with Elminster, the bard where she honestly wonders if anyone with long black hair that became silver Storm Silverhand (her sister), and else truly exists when she is not around, early in her life. She dressed in a nonde- Mane’s Band, until a rightful lord, Doust as if all the other people in all the script brown robe, and always carried Sulwood, returned. Sylune was slain by Realms live their lives simply to nurture her staff. a huge ancient red dragon under the the continuing experience that she calls Equipment: Sylune’s drab brown influence of the Cult of the Dragon. She her life. robe was actually a robe of protection slew the dragon as she herself per- She is undeniably loyal to Dendybar, +4. She carried a staff of the magi and ished, breaking her staff of the magi for though, but only because she percieves wore a ring of spell storing and a ring of a retributive strike. the Mottled Wizard to be her chosen fire resistance. She had many scrolls Other notes: Sylune was a friend tutor in this existence. In Sydney’s delu- with various protection spells on them, and ally to Doust and his companions. sions of grandeur, the gods have and possessed a crystal ball which is She lived in a hut in the woods south appointed Dendybar the vital task of now in the possession of her old friend, and west of most homes in the dale, training their shining star. Elminster (as, one assumes, are most of where she served all dalefolk as mid- the scrolls). wife, comforter, and physician. Sylune Sylune of Personality: Sylune was always was the eldest sister of The Simbul of gracious, gentle, and polite. Among the Aglarond, Storm Silverhand, Alustriel Shadowdale five sisters, she was the motherly one, of Silverymoon, and the ranger Dove. ARMOR CLASS: 3 and at the same time, the stern example One of her early feats was helping to MOVE: 12” to them all. Sometimes she seemed to form the Harpers, along with her sister, Hit Points: 77 feel the burden of being the example to Storm Silverhand, and a group of other NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 the others, yet she was always willing to rangers and bards. This was almost a DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d6 listen and lend herself to causes that century ago, when Sylune was still SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use needed her talents. young, but the organization has grown SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil However, like any of her clan, Sylune to become a major force for the propa- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil could be short with fools and liars, and gation of “good” against such entities as SIZE: M quick to point out their shortcomings. the Zhentarim and the Red Wizards of ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good She had a tongue that mostly caressed Thay. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil the ears of her listeners, but it could Since Sylune is dead, it is difficult 22nd-Level Human Magic-User blister the ears of those who would (though not impossible) for characters S:13 I:18 W:16 D:17 C:18 CH:15 waste her time with foolishness. to interact with her. Yet, her legacy does Motivations: Sylune was motivated give characters some hooks for adven- Commonly remembered spells: by the example of her lover and then ture. • First-level — Comprehend languag- husband, Aumry, lord of Shadowdale. Stories of Sylune are told by bards es, feather fall, protection from They adventured together in their (particularly Storm Silverhand, but her evil. youth, and when Aumry was called saga is considered prime recruiting • Second-level — Continual light, upon to assume the mantle of lord, she material by all the Harpers) as inspira- locate object, strength. married him and took on the burden of tion for the living. Thus, Sylune is still • Third-level — Dispel magic, fly, lady. fulfilling her function. From her adven- protection from normal missiles. Her dedication was to the well-being tures, characters can gain inspiration • Fourth-level — Charm monster, of her people at all time. She was their (that is to say, the DM can give them hallucinatory terrain, plant most fierce defender, standing out hints) for dealing with problems that growth. among many other defenders, includ- seem unsurmountable at any particular • Fifth-level — Conjure water ele- ing two of her sisters, Dove and Storm moment. mental, hold monster, telekinesis. Silverhand. She finally proved her dedi- And, of course, her legacy of the • Sixth-level — Globe of invulnerabil- cation with her life. Harpers provides plenty of opportunity ity, guards and wards, reincarna- Background notes: Sylune was for adventure as recruits to that elite tion. born in the year of the Dancing Maiden network oppose the machinations of • Seventh-level — Banishment, lim- (1202 DR), and was killed in the Year of Zhentarim and Red Wizard alike. the Worm (1356 DR).

102 MINOR CHARACTERS

Vangerdahast king with magical rings, and resupplies Other notes: As the adviser to the him when he gives them away to people king of one of the major nations of the ARMOR CLASS: -1 on special missions or who have done Realms, Vangerdahast is someone that MOVE: 12” the king important favors. player characters will almost inevitably Hit Points: 60 Personality: Vangerdahast is quiet meet or otherwise interact with in their NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 and unassuming, although during court travels. He is the man behind Cormyr’s DAMAGE/ATTACK: 1d4 + 1 ceremonies, he can be very dignified, activities against the Zhentarim, and he SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use solemn, and impressive. A studiously is always interested when a party has SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil pragmatic person, Vangerdahast found some item of magic that they MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil always tries to appear unflappable and want to identify or dispose of. SIZE: M ready to cope with anything. He is of Parties sent on missions for the Harp- ALIGNMENT: Lawful Neutral kindly but stern manner. ers by Storm Silverhand or The Simbul PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Motivations: Vangerdahast is may be told to talk to Vangerdahast 15th-Level Magic-User known for lifelong loyalty to Azoun IV, about the subject of the mission and S:12 I:18 W:16 D:14 C:16 CH:12 king of Cormyr. He feels that Azoun is gain his counsel. Vangerdahast is not a the best possible ruler for Cormyr, and Harper, but is generally sympathetic to Commonly remembered spells: works to maintain Azoun’s rule. He their aims. • First-level — Charm person, detect tends to take the most expeditious The wand of armory: This type of magic, friends. route, rather than the “good” path, wand was originally devised by the • Second-level — Detect invisibility, which might be longer and less likely, in long-dead wizard Hosta. His appren- ESP mirror image. his view, to succeed. tices spread the method of making it far • Third-level — Detect illusion, hold However, he is concerned for the wel- and wide through the North of the person, protection from evil, 10’ fare of the entire nation, and realizes Realms. radius. that repression and arbitrariness are When touched to a target creature or • Fourth-level — Charm monster, dis- the best ways to make the people want activated upon the user’s person, this pel illusion, remove curse. a change of ruler. wand envelops the target with an invisi- • Fifth-level — Bigby’s interposing Background notes: Vangerdahast ble, magical field of force which affords hand, passwall, wall of iron. spent his youth, in the time of Azoun’s the equivalent of armor class 0 protec- • Sixth-level — Geas, globe of invul- grandfather’s rule, as an adventurer — tion. nerability gaining many friends in the adventurer The field of force can be destroyed by • Seventh-level — Reverse gravity and retired adventurer circles. Since dispel magic, limited wish, disintegrate Physical description: Vangerda- many of these people are now kings or (which does not affect the person pro- hast looks like a middle-aged, paunchy, advisers to kings, he has a network of tected) or similar, stronger, spells. Oth- white-bearded man of kindly but stern friends and acquaintances throughout erwise, it lasts for six rounds. During manner. In fact, he has been around, the Realms. this time it absorbs magic missile and all looking much the same, for 30 years, so Azoun’s father, Rhigaerd II, appointed electrical (including magical) attacks, so he is older than he looks. Vangerdahast as Azoun’s tutor in the the target is not affected, but the field Vangerdahast always wears long history and lineages of Cormyr and in does not affect any other spell going in robes with capacious sleeves. matters of magic and such rulership or out of the field. Equipment: Vangerdahast has a subjects as ethics. Vangerdahast used The “force armor” is used in addition ceremonial dagger which is actually a this position to become the king’s most to any armor worn. That means the dagger +1. He wears bracers of AC2 trusted adviser. attacker must attack twice, once and a ring of protection+3. He also has Vangerdahast aided the king in his against the armor class 0 from the several magical wands, and generally youth and has supported Azoun’s rule wand, and once against the normal carries a wand of armory (see other throughout his reign. He is respected armor class of the target. It completely notes) and a wand of force in one of his by fellow mages and the people of Cor- covers any size M or S creature (who copious sleeves. He has several other myr alike. need not be conscious, alive, or even magical rings, and wears different ones Vangerdahast is now the royal magi- willing to be protected). There is no sav- depending on the situation. In court, cian of Cormyr, court wizard of the ing throw. Size L creatures have their which is where he is usually found, he Purple Dragon, and head of Suzail’s heads and torsos protected. wears a ring of multiple wishes with an Council of Mages. When he is not advis- Any member of any class may use this unknown number of uses left. He has ing the king, he spends his time wand. It cannot be recharged. Each use used it twice in times of disaster. researching spells and enchanting mag- of the wand drains one charge. He is also known to have supplied the ical items for him.

103 MINOR CHARACTERS

The Wanderer The Wanderer has slowly accumulated DAMAGE/ATTACK: 2d4 the bits and pieces of a new identity; a SPECIAL ATTACKS: Magic MOVE: 12” livable fiction made up from the images SPECIAL DEFENSES: Anti-magic ray Hit Points: 56 his friends project upon him. This new MAGIC RESISTANCE: Special NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 self mirrors his increasing loyalty to INTELLIGENCE: Exceptional DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type Sanehiro, as the quintessential ronin ALIGNMENT: Lawful Evil SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil becomes samurai again under a new SIZE: L (4 1/2’ diameter) SPECIAL DEFENSES: Enchanted sword lord. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil (see below) Dungeon Master’s information: MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil The Wanderer can be encountered on Physical description: Xanathar’s SIZE: M the road alone or in the company of physical shape is the same as any other PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Sanehiro/Monkey. His usual abode is a eye tyrant: A large diameter sphere Seventh-Level Human Kensai small woodcutter’s hut on the edge of covered in chitin with 10 eyestalks, a S:16 I:16 W:10 D:17 C:14 CH:17 Tomobiki village, surrounded by a thick large eye in the forward part of the brake of bamboo and scattered fields. sphere, and a tooth-filled mouth below He is the true wave man, driven by The Wanderer rarely speaks, even to that. His body color (which varies with the winds, hammered to the Earth, his closest friends. When encountering every beholder) is a dark blue-gray shadowed by fire and eternal as death. an adventuring party, he will watch which shades toward a dull yellow- Who is he? He is no one. them silently, a somewhat distant and orange around his cavernous mouth Background: It is possible that no considering look in his eyes. Should any and underside. All of the above is usu- one will ever know exactly who the player recognize him, he will go out of ally floating about 3’ off the ground. Wanderer is — not even himself. Born his way to avoid that person; if he can- Equipment: Xanathar, like all eye from the ashes of the terrible battle of not, he will rebuff the adventurer with tyrants, has no particular faith in magi- Kiroshina, he is a man without history, loud words and curses. The Wanderer cal equipment. However, he has had without name, and without family. will only become violent if severely specially made an eyes talk ring of proof Slender and strong, with black hair pressed. against detection and location which is and eyes, he is unremarkable among The Wanderer normally does not around his fifth eyestalk. He has similar the peoples of Kara Tur. His face is wear armor or carry weapons, rings around all of his other eyestalks, young, without the wrinkles and marks although he does have both at his hut but they are simply jewelry, worth of age or care. Found wandering the and will wear them into battle. At first about 350 gp each. blasted battlefields of Kanazaki Prov- glance, the armor appears to be a bat- Personality: Xanathar loves his ince, he wore the garb of a soldier, but tered mismatch from no determinable position as the secret lord of Water- his armor was so torn that not even the army; however, a careful use of the deep’s criminal underground. His great side for which he fought could be deter- detect magic spell will prove the armor pleasure is chuckling over the vanity of mined. to be enchanted to +3. The Wanderer’s the Lords of Waterdeep, who think Who he is is The Wanderer’s least swords are of uncertain antiquity, but they have eradicated organized crime concern — in fact, his identity seems to are actually enchanted with the ability in Waterdeep, while he prospers in the be something from which he now flees. to cast the spell protection from spirits sewers beneath their feet. His motivation is to always keep mov- three times per day. If asked, The Wan- Motivations: Xanathar is a creature ing, keep doing, so that he need not derer will say that he found the sword of pleasures — it enjoys finely prepared ever consider his past — a past perhaps and armor on the battlefield of foods, scented oils, and spiced southern too horrible to remember. If he is Kiroshina and that he knows nothing of tobaccos and herbs. His principal goal is approached by someone from out of his their histories. to maintain his position as crime lord of previous life, he will rebuff them with Waterdeep. angry words, or run from them in ter- Xanatkar Besides avoiding the scrutiny of the ror. Doin Sanehiro is the lodestone of Lords of Waterdeep, Xanathar is keep- The Wanderer’s life. He follows the old- FREQUENCY: Very Rare ing himself from common knowledge er warrior without question, giving the NO. APPEARING: 1 because he doesn’t want his former “Monkey” his loyalty and the responsi- ARMOR CLASS: 0/2/7 masters of the Zhentarim to know bility for The Wanderer’s actions. In MOVE: 3” where he is (see background). turn, Sanehiro does not ask The Wan- Hit Points: 75 Background notes: Xanathar derer to explain his past or choose % IN LAIR: 80% came to Waterdeep as cargo in a trading sides. TREASURE TYPE: I,S,T caravan from Zhentil Keep. He was a As the companions travel together, NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 follower of Xantriph, Manshoon’s eye

104 MINOR CHARACTERS tyrant ally, and initially, his mission was main chamber has yet to be located by Slan Thurbel is his mercenary leader, to work toward the destruction of the the forces of Law, and indeed, few a sixth-level fighter who arranges Lords of Waterdeep and the promotion know of his very existence in the city. crimes of violence. of a ruler who would be friendly to He has the best knowledge of the Slink Monteskor is Xanathar’s book- Zhentil Keep and the Zhentarim. sewers and their entrances both into keeper and gatherer of information — However, after a couple of months of the major citadels and into Under- he has a network of snitches scattered conspiracy and lurking about the mountain as well. throughout the poor sections and shadows of the docks, the free market Xanathar’s abode is enmeshed in a net among some servants of the upper atmosphere of Waterdeep inspired of trapped passages, of which only the classes. Xanathar, and he defied his masters by four councilors know the safe passage. Ott Steeltoes is a renegade of Iron- disappearing from their view. Most of the traps are non-lethal, pri- master, a one-eyed and one-legged In no time he had a network of marily consisting of pits and nets and dwarven pirate, who is a fifth-level thieves working for him, and had found falling cages. Interlopers are taken fighter and thief. his hideout underneath Waterdeep. from the traps and kept as pets briefly, Darkeyes is a half-drow thief of sev- Xanathar is now the master of the wrung dry for information, then dis- enth level, and Xanathar’s personal “unofficial” thieves guild of Waterdeep. patched (for Xanathar’s appetite is favorite. She is also a master at black- He works solely through free-lancers enormous). mail and extortion, and her information who receive orders indirectly. Only his The chambers in Xanathar’s lair con- comes from the darker festhalls of most trusted lieutenants have any idea tain a number of treasure vaults and Waterdeep and their more stylish that Xanathar exists, or is a beholder. libraries (with information from Slink patrons. He has not left his hideout for years, written in code). Xanathar itself In his lair, Xanathar keeps a pair of allowing his lieutenants to supply all of reclines in a clear glass tank of scented charmed intellect devourers, and a his needs. The Lords of Waterdeep water when planning criminal activi- winglet of six gargoyles for local have no idea that there is an eye tyrant ties. defense. within 200 miles of Waterdeep. Xanathar is served by his central Player characters may learn of Xana- Other notes: Xanathar makes his “four councilors” who meet with him thar’s existence by running afoul of home is an opulent chamber that lies regularly. They in turn deal with other Zhentarim agents who are “looking for hidden behind a secret door leading underlings. a beholder.” from the sewers of Waterdeep. His

105 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS

Bands of adventurers are common in of the village of Eveningstar. adventurers had secured the tower, but the Forgotten Realms. They are com- The group departed on the 28th of by the time they had, they had found posed of individuals united by a desire Tarsakh, Year of the Harp, and spent enough treasure to rebuild the struc- for money, magic, skill, fame and, most two months adventuring in the Halls. ture. They also discovered the chilling essentially, adventure. They are toler- The group then moved on to the Stone- secret of the Tower of Ashaba: It had ated in most places and have a long tra- lands, exploring assorted tombs and been built not by men, but by the drow, dition. Certain lands, such as Cormyr, strongholds of evil creatures. to guard the entrances to the realms require that bands register and receive It was at this time that the Knights below. The drow had been coming up a royal charter to operate within their first ran afoul of the Zhentarim, who through the ruined tower to trade with borders; a few, such as Amn, forbid were engaged in taking control of the the Zhentarim, who had a hidden adventurers outright. Stonelands in order to complete an stronghold in the woods near Shadow- The number of adventuring compan- overland caravan route from Zhentil dale. ies is large and constantly changing. Keep to the Sword Coast. The party Florin declined the lordship of Sha- Such groups are established, vanish, slew Maglor, a Zhentarim spy, in dowdale; instead, he asked that his fel- and change names and locations con- Eveningstar, and later slew the rene- low Knights elect one of their number stantly with the passing winters. gade Zhentarim mage Whisper. A thief, to take the position. Doust Sulwood, Two notable groups are described Nith, whom the party rescued in the cleric of Tymora, was chosen. Support- below. Both have shown remarkable Halls during this time was actually a ed by the sage Elminster, the witch longevity and are quite well known. Zhentarim spy, Asbarode. He laid hold Sylune, Tamshan the bard, and the The Knights of Myth Drannor, operat- of a magical sword that compelled him magic-user Boots “The Lucky” of Mane’s ing out of Shadowdale, are an example to take it elsewhere, and left the band. Band (the latter two Harper agents), of a fairly typical group that started just As with almost any beginning group, Doust established his rule. He called vil- looking for adventure; as they became the Knights at first had several bad ele- lage meetings, democratic “lord’s powerful, they embraced a number of ments: companions who were uncoop- courts,” to discuss matters great and worthy causes, such as the defense of erative, and attempted to slay or steal small, and arranged to have elected a Shadowdale and the monitoring of the from their fellows. Two of these in the council of locals to advise him. ruins of Myth Drannor. The Company Knights, the fighters Agannor Wild- Troubles with the Zhentarim contin- of Eight, of Tethyr, is a group with a silver and Bey Freemantle, met swift ued to plague Doust; caravan after cara- much more narrow focus; their and brutal ends. van from Zhentil Keep, some carrying expressed purpose is to provide stabili- The party discovered a curious fea- slaves, pushed through Shadowdale, ty in the state of near-anarchy in their ture common to many ancient ruins in and fought the Knights’ guards. At the country. the Realms: permanent teleportation same time, the adventurers made for- gates linking one dungeon with ays against local giants, wiping out the The Knights of Myth another, far-distant one. By chance they Flaming Tower, tackled a beholder took one to the great city of Waterdeep, allied with the Zhentarim, and encoun- Drannor where they met Khelben “Blackstaff” tered “The Hand,” a band of evil adven- These adventurers first came to Arunsun, who had heard of their turers based in Voonlar. prominence as rulers of Shadowdale, in doings via Harper agents (such as Dove, All too soon, Zhentil Keep sent an their successful defiance of the armies later a Knight herself and the wife of army against the dale, supporting a of Zhentil Keep. They were instrumen- Florin Falconhand). Khelben recog- false claim on the lordship from Lyran tal in the defeat of Lashan of Scardale, nized a golden opportunity to hand the Nanther of Melvaunt. Astonishingly, and remain able foes of the Zhentarim Zhentarim a setback: He gave Florin the the party’s mercenaries and militia, and of the drow beneath the Dra- pendant and title of lord of Shadow- with elven and Harper help, prevailed gonreach lands. dale, to claim if he could. After against 10 times their number; but it The Knights began in Espar as a strengthening and healing the band, was recognized that Zhentil Keep had nameless band of youths, young men Khelben teleported them all back to not yet given up the struggle. and women who had grown up togeth- Eveningstar. The party members continued to er. They received a charter from King The party traversed the Stonelands to establish themselves in the dale, uncov- Azoun of Cormyr allowing them to bear Shadowdale, where they took posses- ering Zhentarim and drow agents, iden- arms. The royal assent included a sion of the monster-infested Tower of tifying a weretiger, and discovering the strong recommendation that the party Ashaba and met Sylune, Elminster, and talents of Illistyl Elventree. They solidi- of adventurers explore and clean out other notable locals, including Mane’s fied the dale’s defenses and settled new the “Haunted Halls,” a bandit hold north Band (adventurers) and a few drow farmers. Envoys began to arrive from agents. It was some time before the local rulers and priesthoods; most were

106 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS

politely refused, but Tyche, Lathander, leaving the Elven Court for the tranquil- card. Soon thereafter, Islif gave birth to and Chauntea were granted land. ity of Evermeet as fast as they could), a son, Jhaok, and Mielikki appeared to Before Zhentil Keep could make its the Harpers, and the druidic circles in Florin, commanding him to marry next attack, the Knights made a light- the area to bolster Mistledale and hold Dove. ning attack on Voonlar, a village up the Lashan back. Hold they did — and The party guarded Shadowdale until road. There they razed and plundered Lashan’s empire began to crumble as he the deep snows of winter made attack the temple of the evil god Bane, taking was attacked from all sides. by Zhentil Keep impossible; then they over 400 prisoners, including drow and The departing elves invited the party made their way to Myth Drannor to Zhentarim. While the Zhentarim recov- to enter Myth Drannor. There they take the gate to Waterdeep, where they ered from this blow, the adventurers found much evil, but also another gate wintered in a villa, dubbed “Cold Com- dealt another to the drow in the to Waterdeep, as well as gates to other fort” Jhessail gave birth to Veluthil, and caverns below the dale. worlds. They found a treasure cache Dove and Florin were wed. This venture was highly successful, known as the Elfhold, and encountered When spring of the Year of the Prince but as the adventurers themselves renegade lords of Zhentil Keep, seeking came, the adventurers left Waterdeep were recovering, Lashan of Scardale, allies to fight against the Zhentarim, to explore the Realms, having left the secretly supported by the high imper- and the goddess Mielikki. defense of Shadowdale to Mourngrym, ceptor of Bane, suddenly invaded and Aumark Lithyl then left the party to Elminster, and their army. They spent conquered neighboring Harrowdale take the throne of Ruathym, since his most of the next year exploring the and Featherdale. He then took Battle- father had been slain in the war with northern Sword Coast, and then com- dale and Tasseldale beyond before any- Luskan. To replace him, Khelben sent a ing down the western edge of the Great one could mobilize their forces, and young Waterdhavian cavalier, Mourn- Desert, Anauroch, to Westgate, then attacked Mistledale. Cormyr guarded grym Amcathra. When Doust relin- Cormyr and the Dales at last. Along the its borders by annexing Tilverton to the quished his title, Mourngrym was way, they found the lost city of Gauntl- west, and Sembia rushed its forces named lord of Shadowdale. grym, met with Alustriel, high lady of north to protect Deepingdale and pre- In Myth Drannor, the band found a Silverymoon, and the wandering Sim- vent Lashan from turning south. It was deck of many things, and Doust amaz- bul of Aglarond, and lost Jelde, then left to Shadowdale, the elves (who were ingly survived the drawing of a death Doust and Islif, to retirement.

107 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS

Instead of returning to Shadowdale, leader; but all party members are Patron deity: Lathander. the remaining party members elected equal, and all important decisions are Home city or country: Espar, Cor- to go to Myth Drannor, hoping to estab- decided by a democratic vote. myr. lish their own stronghold there. They The party does not currently have a Current residence: Eveningstar. found a nasty surprise there: hordes of permanent stronghold or base, Languages: Common, Neutral devils, summoned by priests of Bane, although they are hoping to build one. Good, Elvish. infested the ruins. After hard fighting, They are always welcome at the Tower Weapon proficiencies: Staff, ham- the party retired to Essembra, there to of Ashaba or almost anywhere else in mer, mace. rest and welcome Rathan Thentraver, Shadowdale; and there they keep a Non-weapon proficiencies/ cleric of Tymora, and Torm, a rogue, cache of communal treasure and magic, skills: Endurance, fishing, rope use. into their ranks. They also finally chose deposited in the days of Doust’s lord- Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — a name: The Knights of Myth Drannor. ship. It includes healing scrolls and 7; Petrification/polymorph — 10; Rod/ The Knights have since had many potions and at least one elixir of life. staff/wand — 11; Breath weapon — 13; adventures, exploring other worlds, The Knights utilize no hirelings or Spells — 12. battling the drow (and in the process henchmen; all who so offer their serv- Undead turning: Skeleton — D*; gaining a new companion, Sharantyr), ices are sent to aid Lord Mourngrym in Mummy — 7; Zombie — D*; Spectre — and continuing to fight the Zhentarim policing Shadowdale. 10; Ghoul — D; Vampire — 13; Shadow and their devil and orc agents. They Spellbooks: The spell-casting mem- — D; Ghost — 16; Wight — T; Lich — 19; have also had many battles in the ruins bers of the Knights have pooled their Ghast — T; Special — 20; Wraith — 4. of Myth Drannor; adventurers flock resources, gathering all their known Spells per level: 5/5/4/3/—. there from the lands all around, search- spells together. The books containing Spells commonly memorized: Aid, ing for treasure, but finding instead these spells are kept safe in the Tower bless, command, continual light, cure swift death from diabolical claws. of Ashaba in Shadowdale; any magic- blindness, cure light wounds x 2, cure The death of Sylune and the devasta- using Knight can have access to them. serious wounds, dispel magic, glyph of tion of much of the Dalelands at the Each Knight has a traveling spellbook, warding, hold person, know alignment, claws and fangs of dragons at the in which are recorded those spells list- messenger, neutralize poison, remove behest of the Cult of the Dragon gained ed in the character descriptions below fear, speak with plants, withdraw. the Knights a new enemy. Currently the as “spells commonly memorized.” Some Magical items and equipment: Knights are fighting on against ever- also have their own books of cantrips; Hammer +1, chain mail +2, potion of more-powerful foes; and they are such zero-level spells are not recorded levitation, scroll of protection from illu- beginning to question the nature and in the shared books. sions, ring of spell storing (with the aims of the Harpers. The Knights of Myth Drannor are spells control weather, item, Leomund’s Having renounced their official posi- always eager to find new spells to add trap, lightning bolt, and water breath- tions in Shadowdale, they remain to the communal books as well as their ing, all at the 12th level of use), horse- “lords” and “ladies” of the dale, respect- personal repertoires. man’s mace, shield, rope (65’ long), holy ed by all the dalefolk; and Elminster, symbol, prayer beads, fishing line and and the bard Storm Silverhand remain Jelde “Semoor Wolf~tooth” net, staff, backpack, bullseye lantern, staunch allies. Asturien three flasks of oil, water skin, two Currently the Knights are: Florin weeks’ rations. Falconhand and his wife, Dove; Jhessail ARMOR CLASS: 2 A longtime member of the Knights, Silvertree and her husband, Merith MOVE: 12” Jelde was one of the original members Strongbow; the druid, Lanseril Snow- Hit Points: 57 from the Cormyrian village of Espar. mantle; and four “junior members”: the NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 The name given to him there was magic-user Illistyl Elventree, her lover DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or Semoor Wolftooth; but now he finds Torm, Rathan Thentraver, and the spell himself called this only by acquaint- ranger Sharantyr. Less active members SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use ances of long, long ago. His name is now are Jelde Asturien, Doust Sulwood, and SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Jelde Asturien: It is the tradition of cler- Islif Lurelake, and Mourngrym MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil ics of Lathander, God of the Dawn, to Amcathra, with his wife, Shaerl Rowan- SIZE: M take a new name, revealed by their dei- mantle. Mourngrym and Shaerl are ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good ty, upon gaining the rank of priest described elsewhere in this book; the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil (third level). This symbolizes the rest are described below. Eighth-Level Human Cleric rebirth and renewal that Lathander Jhessail coordinates domestic matters S:16 I:12 W:18 D:12 C:15 CH:12 also represents. for the Knights, while Florin is battle Another appellation from Jelde’s past

108 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS is the nickname, “Stoop.” This name mented by his ring of spell storing, he ing. came from his favorite pastime, fishing; no longer would need so much to Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — as a boy he spent long hours in that pos- engage in hand-to-hand combat. He 14; Petrification/polymorph — 13; Rod/ ture, waiting for a strike on his line. recently possessed, for a brief time, a staff/wand — 11; Breath weapon — 15; Now, so many years later, he has fewer magical tooth, but it was taken from Spells — 12. occasions to pass an idle afternoon on a him in battle. The tooths powers had Spells per level: 3/2/—. riverbank. But he still likes to fish, and not yet been discovered; it may have Spells and cantrips commonly on those occasions when he gets out of been an artifact. memorized: Blue light, burning Eveningstar, he rarely fails to bring For his glyph of warding spell, Jelde hands, fire finger, friends, mirror along his fishing tackle. prefers the magical rune named image, scare, unlock, untie. When Semoor came of age, he left telatha. Nicknamed “Morninglow,” tela- Magical items and equipment: Espar to seek his fortune. Among his tha is favored by priests of Lathander, Brooch of shielding, slippers of spider companions were Florin Falconhand, who claim that the Morninglord taught climbing, potions of clairvoyance and Islif Lurelake, and Doust Sulwood, the it to them ages ago. (Clerics of other polymorph self, two daggers, large nucleus of what would someday be faiths may learn and employ it; Astu- pouch of medicinal herbs, tinderbox, named the Knights of Myth Drannor. rien has taught his fellow cleric 12 wax candles, backpack, small mir- Though sarcastic and scheming, Knights, Doust and Rathan, to recog- ror. Semoor was ever loyal to his compan- nize and to use it.) When triggered, the Of all the knights of Myth Drannor, ions, and ever a valued asset. In the glyph explodes with the intense bright- only Illistyl is a native of Shadowdale. course of their adventures, Semoor ness of the rising sun, automatically Her psionic abilities and aptitude for found his vocation as a cleric of Lathan- stunning for 1d4 +1 segments and magic, noted in the Shadowdale census der, and earned his new name, Jelde blinding the creature that triggers it. of the Year of the Harp, were discov- Asturien. The blindness is permanent unless a ered accidentally by the Knights, who Jelde became a noble of Shadowdale saving throw vs. spells is successful, in were actually seeking the weretiger when the knights returned from Water- which case it lasts 1d6 turns. who had slain the thief Alura deep with the pendant from Khelben Durshavin, one of their number. Doust “Blackstaff” Arunsun to claim lordship Illistyl Elventree Sulwood, then lord of the dale, brought of Shadowdale. He took the title sene- her to live in the Tower of Ashaba after ARMOR CLASS: 7 schal of the Tower of Ashaba, and her parents, Ilcurt and Lasha Elventree, MOVE: 12’ served well in the conflicts with the were killed in the battles with Zhentil Hit Points: 13 drow, the Zhentarim, and the would- Keep. Besides being concerned for the NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 be-conquerer-tyrant, Lashan of Scar- young woman’s personal welfare, the DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or dale. He retains the honorary title of a Knights recognized her as an asset to be spell lord of Shadowdale. carefully protected and nurtured for SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use At last Jelde tired of the adventuring the good of the dale. SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil life. He chose to retire from the life of Her tutor in the art, Jhessail MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil wandering to better serve Lathander. Silvertree, is also Illistyl’s good friend. SIZE: M (5’1”) 96 pounds) He presently resides at his deity’s tem- Since Jhessail became a mother, a ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good ple in Eveningstar and is a prominent, greater role as spell weaver for the PSIONIC ABILITY: 242 respected member of the clergy. Most Knights has fallen to this young theur- Attack/Defense Modes: A,C/F,G of his time is devoted to matters of wor- gist. When the greater tasks are at Fourth-Level Human Magic-User ship, administration, and sharing his hand, however, Illistyl steps aside and S:12 I:18 W:16 D:17 C:14 CH:16 wisdom and experience with upcoming permits Jhessail to lend her full and for- members of Lathander’s priesthood. midable powers to the Knights’ pro- Patron deity: Mystra. But he does equip himself on occasion jects. Illistyl then takes care of the child Home city or country: Shadow- and sally forth in the Morninglord’s of Jhessail and Merith Strongbow, and dale. service to the Stonelands, or elsewhere; tends to the daily magical needs of the Current residence: Wanders (the and if the Knights of Myth Drannor dale folk, as the deceased witch Sylune Dalelands). needed his service, he could hardly used to do, and calls for Elminster’s aid Languages: Common, Neutral refuse their request. if it is necessary. Good, Elvish. Asturien dons magical chain mail and Illistyl is young, small, and lithe — 17 Weapon proficiency: Dagger. wields a magical hammer in combat. He winters old, 5’1” tall, and 96 pounds Non-weapon proficiencies/ is strong and hardy; but with his excel- heavy. She is ambidextrous. Her skills: Animal training (horses), heal- lent spell-casting capabilities, aug- straight, dark hair is cut just past shoul-

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der length, and her friendly eyes have Weapon proficiencies: Longbow nor. The battle leader of the group, one an impish sparkle. She likes comfort- (specialization), long sword, two- ranger named Florin Falconhand, was able, colorful clothing, quickly taking handed sword, dagger, battle-ax. in need of training, and Dove served as breeches and a tunic instead of stuffy Non-weapon proficiencies/ his tutor. mage’s robes or a lady’s dress. She has a skills: Endurance, healing, swimming. Florin more than repaid the service. wry sense of humor, and is quite inde- Saving throws: Paralysis/poison— Later when Dove had become the pris- pendent and sharp-tongued — very 7; Petrification/polymorph — 8; Rod/ oner of Orvar “The Unseen” of the necessary traits for anyone who would staff/wand — 9; Breath weapon — 8; Zhentarim, she ran into Florin in the be the lover of the thief, Torm, as she is. Spells — 10. Whistling Wizard Inn in Voonlar, and he Beneath her often-cocky exterior, Illis- Spells per level: Druid — 2/—; released her from her captivity. Dove tyl is sensitive, reliable, and acutely per- magic-user — 2/—. relocated to Shadowdale to join the ceptive. Spells commonly memorized: Knights of Myth Drannor; not long In addition to a traveling spellbook Druid — Entangle, invisibility to ani- thereafter she took to husband Florin, containing the “spells commonly memo- mals, predict weather, speak with ani- the most “noble” man she had ever met. rized,” listed above, Illistyl has a book of mals. Magic-user — Enlarge, unseen Soon after Doust relinquished his 36 cantrips. This repertoire consists of servant. lordship over Shadowdale, the Knights the following: Special abilities: +11 damage vs. moved on, concentrating their atten- Useful — Chill, clean, color, dampen, giant-class humanoids; surprise 50% of tion on Myth Drannor. Dove became dry, dust, exterminate, flavor, freshen, the time; tracking; may employ all non- pregnant, and she retired to Evermeet, polish, salt, shine, spice, stitch, sweet- written magical items that pertain to the fabled island realm of elvenkind, to en, tie, warm, wrap. clairaudience, clairvoyance, ESP, and give birth and raise her child, Azalar Reversed: Dusty, knot, tangle, telepathy Falconhand. She and Florin (and, of untie. Magical items and equipment: course, Azalar) are among the very few Legerdemain: Hide, present. Full plate armor +1, long sword +1 humans permitted to set foot in Ever- Person-affecting: Blink, cough, luck blade (with 2 wishes), three arrows meet. Dove and Azalar currently giggle, sneeze, twitch, wink, yawn. +2, three arrows +3, one arrow +4, remain there, to be visited on occasion Personal: Blue light, fire finger, two potions of extra-healing, cloak and by Florin. unlock. boots of elvenkind, rogue stone (see Beautiful, graceful, and quiet, Dove is Haunting: Footfall, rattle. below), quiver, five silver-tipped a tall woman — at 6’ in height, she is not arrows, dagger, shield. much shorter than her husband. Like Dove Falconhand Dove is the second-youngest of a her husband and many other Knights, famous family of five sisters. Her three Dove is ambidextrous. She is kind, ARMOR CLASS: -3 illustrious older siblings are Sylune, the calm, and firm; her reserved air con- MOVE: 12” late witch and lady of Shadowdale; veys a strong sense of strength, confi- Hit Points: 59 Alustriel, high lady of Silverymoon; and dence and wisdom. She is probably the NO. OF ATTACKS: 3/2 the bard Storm Silverhand, a resident most shy and withdrawn of the sisters, DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or of Shadowdale. The youngest sister is but she is an accomplished singer and spell The Simbul, witch-queen of Aglarond. harpist, and in private she likes to SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use and see All of these human sisters are very old dance. below (Dove is 142), but retain their youthful Listed under magical items and equip- SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil appearance and vitality through the use ment above, are only the most basic MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil of potions of longevity and similar mag- items that Dove would be found carry- SIZE: M (6’) ic. ing. She also will have whatever equip- ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good Besides being a Knight of Myth Dran- ment and provisions would be PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil nor, Dove is, like her sister Storm, one appropriate for the situation in which 11th-Level Human Ranger of the Harpers. For many years even she is found, plus some cash or jewels. S:17 I:18 W:17 D:16 C:13 CH:16 before the creation of the Knights, As all the long-lived sisters do, Dove has Dove fought the Zhentarim and their several secret caches of treasure about Patron deity: Mielikki. minions and other evil creatures of the the Forgotten Realms, containing coins Home city or country: Unknown. Inner Sea lands. and jewelry, spare weapons and armor, Current residence: Evermeet. A number of times in the course of as well as useful, common magic items Languages: Common, Chaotic these activities, she encountered a band (e.g., potions of healing and longevity, Good, Centaur, Dryad, Elvish, Gold of young Cormyrian adventurers, the magical arrows, and perhaps a protec- Dragon, Thorass, Treant. nucleus of the Knights of Myth Dran- tion scroll).

110 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS

The rogue stone, which Dove Florin Falconhand, an imposing and whom he had acquainted himself in his Falconhand always carries, is a magical inspiring man, is a senior member and travels, Florin was enamored of the green gem. It will teleport her back to the leading figure of the Knights of thief “Pennae,” Alura Durshavin. Sadly, Evermeet, without error, when grasped Myth Drannor. He was born in Espar 26 she was slain in Shadowdale by a and commanded. years ago to Hethcanter Falconhand weretiger. The lycanthrope turned out (fourth-level fighter), a retired Cormyr- to be Lune Lyrohar, an unfortunate Florin Falconhand ian army captain, and the half-elf Sky- pleasure girl at Mother Tara’s. (On the dusk (fourth-level magic-user). Florin positive side, the search for her ARMOR CLASS: -4 himself is entirely human. revealed the powers of Illistyl Elven- MOVE: 12” In his youth, Florin was interested in tree, who is now a member of the Hit Points: 66 nature (especially flowers) and Knights.) NO. OF ATTACKS: 3/2 elvenkind, and his mother encouraged Florin remains battle leader of the DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type him to learn about gardening. His Knights, a formidable warrior. When SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use and see father apprenticed him to the famous not in service to the Knights, he retires below armorer, Hawkstone, believing the lad to Evermeet, the tree-cloaked elven SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil would need a more useful trade to get realm across the sea where his wife, MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil by in the world, but the boy ever pre- Dove, and young son, Azalar, presently SIZE: M (6’2”) , 162 pounds) ferred forest to forge. His long, solitary reside. The members of the little family ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good walks in the woods earned him the are among the few humans permitted PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil nickname “Silent,” and allowed him to in that island kingdom. Ninth-Level Human Ranger pick up smatterings of the Elvish, Dry- Spell ability of both magical and dru- S:17 I:17 W:10 D:17 C:10 CH:14 adic, and Treant languages. idic nature is now available to Florin; he When he came of age, Florin set out has been trained by his companions, Patron deity: Mielikki. to find his fortune with his companions, the sorceress Jhessail Silvertree, and Home city or country: Espar. Islif Lurelake, Jhessail Silvertree, Doust the druid Lanseril Snowmantle. Among Current residence: Wanders (the Sulwood, and Semoor Wolftooth. the magic-user spells, Florin can never Dalelands). Skilled with sword and tongue, the learn magic missile, but he has learned Languages: Common, Chaotic ranger emerged as a leader in battle and used find familiar in order to Good, Elvish, Dryadic, Treant. and the diplomatic representative of acquire his familiar, the hawk Minstrel. Weapon proficiencies: Long the band. Minstrel has 2 hp and customarily rides sword, staff, two-handed sword, dag- After some time of adventuring with about on Florins shoulder. Florin can ger, hand crossbow. the Knights, Florin was considered fit telepathically see through the bird’s Non-weapon proficiencies/ by the wizard Khelben “Blackstaff” eyes. skills: Armorer, riding, swimming. Arunsun of Waterdeep to be lord of Florin also has a white charger, a Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — Shadowdale. Florin declined the office, heavy war horse named Firefoam. 8; Petrification/polymorph — 9; Rod/ and allowed it to be bestowed upon his Gained by a magical wish, Firefoam is staff/wand — 10; Breath weapon — 9; stalwart companion, Doust. Florin the equivalent of a paladin’s war horse. Spells — 11. served as warden of Shadowdale, and The beast (AC 5, hp 37, MV 18”, INT 7) Spells per level: Druid — 1/—; represented the tiny state in diplomatic can communicate telepathically with magic-user — 1/—. matters with neighboring lands and Florin on a basic level — feelings, yes or Spells commonly memorized: rulers. no, danger, recognition of beings, and Druid — Pass without trace. Magic-user Florin would seem to be very impor- so forth. Firefoam can fight alone with — Jump. tant to his patron deity, the forest god- hooves and teeth, or with a rider on his Special abilities: +9 damage vs. dess Mielikki — so important that she back, and will serve Florin for six more “giant-class” humanoids; surprise 50% has appeared to him personally on at years. of the time; tracking. least seven occasions. In one such Among Florin’s possessions are a Magical items and equipment: instance, she ordered him to marry unique, magical shield, Reptar’s Wall, Long sword +2, dagger +1, three bolts Dove the ranger, telling him that it was and a rogue stone. The rogue stone, just +2, Reptar’s Wall (see below), potions “necessary.” Dove had tutored him in like the one possessed by his wife, Dove of extra-healing and sweet water, rogue the ways of the forest, and he had res- Falconhand, is a gift from the elves that stone (see below), full plate armor, hand cued her from a Zhentarim captor. can teleport Florin without error to crossbow, quiver with 12 silver-tipped Dove was not the first woman with Evermeet. quarrels, staff, other appropriate whom Florin had been involved. Reptar’s Wall (detailed in issue #89 of equipment and provisions. Among the many ladies before with DRAGON®Magazine and FR4, THE

111 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS

MAGISTER) is a shield +1. It can cause and enchanted creatures, periapt of Islif is tall and brawny (6’, 146 the wearer to become invisible for 2d4 wound closure, potion of vitality, ring pounds), a fearless fighter with a devil- rounds upon verbal command, once of protection +2, field plate armor, may-care attitude. As Doust well every 16 hours, or fly for two turns, great helm, large shield, sling, pouch knows, she still has a streak of drill ser- once every 24 hours, draining a nearby with 30 sling bullets, bullseye lantern, geant in her from the days of barking magic item (charges from a chargeable four flasks of oil, tinderbox, backpack, commands at Shadowdale’s soldiers. item, all dweomer from a “one-shot” provisions, and water skin. Her boldness also makes her a good item, or negating a permanent item for Another member of the original par- trader, as her parents were. She enjoys a time) to do so. The shield makes no ty that came from Espar, at age 25 Islif woodcarving and sculpting, and dis- sound when struck or dropped. Lurelake is a formidable warrior of likes “macho” men. Florin is 6’2” tall, broad-shouldered, high repute. Islif has silvery-blue eyes and 162 pounds, and ambidextrous. He has The parents of Islif are Tesha and shoulder-length hair, black and very curly brown hair, blue-gray eyes, and a Buckman Lurelake. Her father, Buck- straight. She is more commonly found burn scar on his right hand (from pet- man, was a trader, often away from his wearing day-to-day clothes or fashion- ting a baby red dragon when small). He family on business. Islif was often left able evening gowns these days, but she has a kingly demeanor, and is not as free to roam as she would. At the local still keeps her trusty suit of field plate jovial as the other Knights; he is good- swimming hole she made friends with armor well oiled and ready for use. natured, but quiet and dignified. her future adventuring companions: Florin Falconhand, Jhessail Silvertree, Sharantyr Islif Lurelake Doust Sulwood, and Semoor Wolftooth. ARMOR CLASS: 2 She also befriended a scarred old MOVE: 12” ARMOR CLASS: -4 fighter, Skuldi Wolfspear, who became Hit Points: 24 MOVE: 12’ her first tutor in the arts of battle. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Hit Points: 48 Skuldi still makes a living as a hunter NO. OF ATTACKS: 3/2 DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type and guide in the Espar region. SPECIAL ATTACKS: See below DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type Adventuring, Islif proved herself a SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil competent sword fighter, brave explor- MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil er, and a dependable companion. She MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil SIZE: M gained skill rapidly and learned the use ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good SIZE: M (6’, 146 pounds) of many weapons, though she did not PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good choose to favor any one with specializa- Second-Level Human Ranger PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil tion. She normally uses her magical S:17 I:16 W:15 D:17 C:17 CH:14 Eighth-Level Human Fighter long sword in melee, and a sling for mis- S:18 I:11 W:11 D:17 C:17 CH:14 sile combat. Patron deity: Tempus. Not long after Doust Sulwood was Home city or country: Baldur’s Patron deity: Tempus. selected to become lord of Shadowdale, Gate. Home city or country: Espar, Cor- he asked Islif to marry him, and she Current residence: Wanders (the myr. accepted. Islif also served as captain of Dalelands). Current residence: Arabel, Cor- the militia of Shadowdale, and proved Languages: Common, Chaotic Good. myr. an able leader in battle against Zhentil Weapon proficiencies: Dagger, Languages: Common, Neutral Keep and Scardale. long sword, two-handed sword. Good. The couple’s young son, Jhaok Sul- Non-weapon proficiencies/ Weapon proficiencies: Ax, broad wood, was born in Shadowdale on the skills: Riding, swimming. sword, halberd, long sword, scimitar, 22nd of Marpenoth, Year of the Worm. Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — sling. The boy has black hair, clear silver eyes, 14; Petrification/polymorph 15; Rod/ Non-weapon proficiencies/ and already shows interest in following — staff/wand — 16; Breath weapon — 17; skills: Alertness, riding, running, in his mother’s footsteps as a fighter. Spells — 17. swimming. After Doust gave up the lordship of Special abilities: +2 damage vs. Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — Shadowdale to Mourngrym Amcathra, “giant-class” humanoids; surprise 50% 10; Petrification/polymorph — 11; Rod/ he and Islif retired, at least temporarily, of the time; tracking. staff/wand — 12; Breath weapon — 12; to Arabel, where they are enjoying a Weapons and armor: Long sword, Spells — 13. peaceful life. For the present, they are two-handed sword, chain mail, shield, Magical items and equipment: content to take life easy and bring up dagger. Long sword +1/+2 vs. magic-using their child well.

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The female ranger Sharantyr is the to bait drow into a trap), the Knights Current residence: Wanders (the newest member of the Knights of Myth offered Sharantyr a place in their Dalelands). Drannor. Her lack of a surname is quite ranks, which she gladly accepted. Languages: Common, Chaotic common in the Realms. She has yet to Sharantyr is graceful and beautiful, Good, Dryad, Elvish, Treant. choose one, and might never do so. with long, silky, brown hair and gray- Weapon proficiencies: Dagger, Sharantyr was born to a merchant green eyes. Those eyes can almost staff. couple in Baldur’s Gate. Her father, Zun- smoke with silent anger; she has a hot Non-weapon proficiencies/ zyr Thalomm, traded textiles, and her temper, and though she has been skills: Animal training (horses), forag- mother, Nathla, dealt in embroidery through enough hardship to know ing, healing, plant lore, tracking. and fine needlework. Sharantyr never when it is best to control her passions, it Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — saw much of her native town, since her usually can be seen in her eyes. Sharan- 13; Petrification/polymorph — 11; Rod/ parents’ careers took them all over the tyr is quiet, a woman of few words but staff/wand — 9; Breath weapon — 13; North. much battle skill, and she enjoys famil- Spells — 10. The life of a traveling merchant in the iarizing herself with the Dalelands by Spells per level: 4/3/3/2/—. Realms can be as risky as that of an traveling with the bard, Storm Spells commonly memorized: adventurer, as was demonstrated most Silverhand, of Shadowdale. Dimension door, ESP, Tenser’s floating tragically when Sharantyr was barely 2 She wears chain mail under her trav- disc, fly, haste, ice storm, Leomund’s years of age. Her parents’ caravan was eling tunic and cloak, and carries a long tiny hut, mirror image, push, sleep, spi- waylaid by trolls north of Scornubel, sword at her side. She has a shield, but der climb, strength. and both killed. Sharantyr escaped usually keeps it on her riding horse, Magical items: Bracers of defense miraculously in the confusion as the unless she is expecting a melee. Her AC 2, pearl of power (recalls third-level caravan dissolved. She fled many miles two-handed sword gets similar treat- spells), potion of fire resistance, ring of into the forest, alone, until she col- ment or, sometimes, is strapped to her wizardry (doubles fifth-level spells; not lapsed from exhaustion after all the back in its sheath. A dagger is concealed yet usable), ring of shooting stars, spell exertion and terror. in each boot. Being ambidextrous, scroll with wall of force, wand of magic She was found by a gentle ranger, Sharantyr wields long sword, dagger, missiles (48 charges), wand of metal Thauntyr, who treated her bruises and and shield equally well in either hand. detection (74 charges). scrapes and nursed her back to health This ranger has amassed enough Small and motherly, but command- and vitality. He brought her up as if she experience points to advance to third ing, Jhessail Silvertree is the maternal were his own daughter, training her in level, but on account of all the bustle leader of the Knights of Myth Drannor. wood lore and the use of weapons. and trouble in the Dales of late, Florin Like many of the senior Knights, Jhes- Twenty years after he had saved Falconhand has not yet had time to sail is a native of Espar, Cormyr. She is Sharantyr from the dangers of the for- train her, as he has promised to do. the daughter of foresters and elfriends, est, Thauntyr passed away, victim of a Criag and Lhanna Silvertree, from fever. Sharantyr buried him, and then Jhessail Silvertree whom she inherited an undying inter- decided that she could no longer live est in elves and woodlands. alone in their little forest dwelling. She ARMOR CLASS: 1 As a child, Jhessail was fascinated by packed what possessions she could car- MOVE: 12” magic as soon as she discovered it. The ry, including her adoptive father’s great Hit Points: 26 elves, on good terms with her family, NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 sword, and journeyed away to find her discovered that besides having any fortune. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or child’s delight with conjurers’ tricks, She traveled south to Iriaebor, and spell “Twoteeth,” as she was nicknamed, had SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use then east, through Cormyr, to the Dale- a real aptitude for the art. Even before lands. She had the misfortune of SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil she could read or write well, Jhessail MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil encountering a group of drow raiders, had discovered how to use a few simple SIZE: M(5’9”, 91 pounds) who took her prisoner and carried her cantrips, just from carefully observing ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good deep beneath the earth. mages and their apprentices. She PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Luckily she was discovered and res- delighted her young friends with such Eighth-Level Human Magic-User cued by the Knights of Myth Drannor, petty magics as blue light. The elves, S:13 I:18 W:18 D:14 C:9 CH:14 who were on one of their forays against with her parents’ permission, arranged the evil elves of the Underdark. for the precocious child to be tutored Patron deity: Mystra. Impressed by Sharantyr’s fighting skill, immediately by Hezom of Espar. Home city or country: Espar, Cor- resourcefulness, and determination Formal training matured Jhessail’s myr. (she had the guts to face a beholder and magical talents, even as nature and a

113 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS healthy lifestyle developed her body “veluthe” means “beautiful,” and “thil,” spell into one of striking, near-elfin beauty. “evening.” Veluthil’s surname is a combi- SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use Her old nickname, Twoteeth, was nation of those of her parents, as is tra- SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below replaced by “Flamehair,” on account of dition for half-elves of the Realms; MAGIC RESISTANCE: See below her long, fiery, orange-brown tresses. when she grows older she may keep SIZE: M(6’2”, 100 pounds) She has a slim, exquisite figure (5’9”, 91 this name or choose another. ALIGNMENT: Neutral pounds), a gentle mouth, and dark gray- Veluthil is cared for by Illistyl Elven- PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil green eyes. She came to favor simple tree at least as much as by her mother; Eight-Level Half-Elven Druid apparel, such as plain, dark robes, that as the Knights of Myth Drannor mem- S:10 I:14 W:17 D:14 C:12 CH:16 allows her natural beauty to shine. ber most experienced in the use of mag- After completing her apprenticeship ic, Jhessail’s services are often in Patron deity: Sylvanus. to Hezom, Jhessail was encouraged by demand, and she is not one to miss Home city or country: Snowman- her parents to go out and see the world; adventure. tle. so she set off with a band of friends, the She is warm, kind, and understand- Current residence: Wanders (the nucleus of the Knights of Myth Dran- ing, yet strict and proper. Her passion Dalelands). nor. One woman in the group, a magic- and strong will are tempered by great Languages: Common, Elvish, Neu- user named Martess, was soon killed; self-control. Jhess has undertaken to tral, Centaur, Druidic, Dryad, Faun, she too had been an apprentice of train Illistyl Elventree as her successor Gnome, Hill Giant, Orcish, Treantish. Hezom and a good friend of Jhessail. and to develop Florin Falconhand’s new Weapon proficiencies: Scimitar, The loss hurt this sensitive, young sor- magical powers. She also is carefully spear, staff. ceress; but it helped to harden her to nudging her infant into familiarity with Non-weapon proficiencies/ the harsh realities of an adventurer’s magic. skills: Animal trainer (badgers), direc- life. And she rose rapidly in power, Jhessail’s spells, built up from tion sense, fungus identification. reading a libram of silver magic and spellbooks gained in the Knights’ adven- Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — acquiring a familiar, a black cat named tures, are shared freely with the other 7; Petrification/polymorph — 10; Rod/ Jet (AC 7, hp 4, MV 12”, INT 14). spell-casters of the group, particularly staff/wand — 11; Breath weapon — 13; Talents besides magic were cultivated her husband. Besides her memorized Spells — 12. by Jhess (as she now is usually called by spells, Jhessail has an impressive array Spells per level: 6/6/4/2/—. her fellow Knights). She learned and of magical devices that make her quite Spells commonly learned: Ani- practiced her skills of healing, animal formidable in combat. mal friendship, call lightning, call wood- training, endurance, and riding. Her In addition to a traveling spellbook land beings, charm person or mammal, wide range of abilities made her power- containing the “spells commonly memo- cure disease, cure light wounds, good ful and respected among the Knights. rized,” listed above, Jhessail has a book berry, know alignment, plant door, pre- Jhessail’s first lover was one of the of 34 cantrips. This repertoire consists dict weather, purify water, summon Knights, the cleric Jelde Asturien, who of the following: insects, trip, warp wood. had also come from Espar. The elf Useful — Chill, clean, color, dampen, Special abilities: Identify plant, Merith Strongbow contested Jelde’s dry, dust, flavor, freshen, gather, polish, animal, pure water; pass through over- claims on Jhessail. Ultimately, the salt, shine, spice, stitch, sweeten, tie, grown areas without leaving discern- choice was, of course, Jhessail’s, and warm, wrap. ible trail; immune to the charm of she decided that she loved Merith Reversed — Tangle, untie. woodland creatures; change shape to more. Winning his hand in marriage Legerdemain — Change, hide, animal up to three times per day; +2 on before all the Elven Court was no mean mute, present. saving throws vs. fire and lightning; task, but Jhessail proved herself well. Person-affecting — Blink, yawn. 30% resistance to sleep, charm; infra- By elven standards she is extremely Personal — Blue light, fire finger, vision 60’; detect concealed doors. young; and even though she seeks to gnat, mouse, smoke puff, unlock. Magical items: Bracers of defense extend her life span by magical means, Haunting — Tap, thump. AC 5, ring of protection +1, Firecrown she hasn’t hoped to outlive even the (see below), druidic spell scroll with youth of her husband. Lanseril Snowmantle cure light wounds x 2, cure serious The marriage, enacted on Alturiak wounds, neutralize poison, and trans- ARMOR CLASS: 4 15, Year of the Worm, has produced one mute rock to mud. MOVE: 12” half-elven daughter, Veluthil Silverbow. Lanseril is a native of Snowmantle, a Hit Points: 54 The first name means “beautiful of the tiny village north of Daggerdale, on the NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 evening,” in reference to the time of her edge of the Border Forest. When he DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or birth on Mirtul 1, Year of the Prince; came of age, he took his village’s name

114 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS as his own. self. He worked for a local merchant, emit two rays of fire, doing 18 points of Raunaeril “The Rose,” an elf, was Lan- Braun o’ the Beard, as a runner, errand- damage (half if a save vs. spells is made). seril’s father; his mother was a beauti- boy and animal keeper; even then he This enchanted coronet was won from ful human maiden of Snowmantle, could train animals and identify their giants in the Flaming Tower, a fortress Nelael “Heth’s Girl.” unique sounds, or “voices” as he always that Lanseril and his companions Lanseril loved to play in the forest called them. Lanseril worked devotedly destroyed with the aid of treants. with the elves, and hated what little he for Braun for 12 years, seeing much of Lanseril also has two trained badgers, saw of cities. A druid who lived in the the local roads and businesses. But in who can dig, fetch keys (or similarly forest near Snowmantle, one Haem- the end, he was made miserable by the small items), gnaw ropes, and the like faest “Holloweye” Sarthun (he had lost jealous younger cousin of Braun, who upon telepathic command. his left eye in a long-ago battle, but hoped to inherit the business, and He has enough experience to advance refused to wear an eye patch), took a didn’t want a competent, well-liked to ninth level, if he could ever spare the fancy to the half-elven lad and intro- apprentice blocking his plans. time for the necessary training and duced him to the worship of Silvanus. In a way, it was opportune that Lan- communion with nature. Silvanus was to Lanseril a much more seril was forced to seek new horizons. believable deity than Rillifane Rallathil, A ranger, Briadorn of the druidic Circle Merith Strongbow of Shadowdale, saw Lanseril gently car- the elven deity favored by his father’s ARMOR CLASS: 1 ing for an injured hare, treating its tribe. This was in spite of the fact that MOVE: 12” wounds with herbs, and offered to Haemfaest and the elves believed that Hit Points: 42 bring him to the dale. Lanseril had once, unknowingly, met NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Lanseril accepted, and soon became a Rillifane on the forest paths, and played DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or most valuable member of the Knights of tag with him around the trees until, in spell Myth Drannor. Though quiet and gen- full view of Raunaeril, who was angrily SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use tle in appearance, he is perhaps the approaching, the green-clad elf with SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil greatest strategist among the Knights the bow whom Lanseril was chasing MAGIC RESISTANCE: See below (his clever use of an insect plague from turned into a great oak tree. Then one SIZE: M a spell scroll was instrumental in night, over a week later, that great oak ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good defeating Zhentil Keep’s reinforce- tree vanished. PSIONIC ABILITY: 152 Raunaeril’s was one of “The Lost,” the ments in the Battle of Shadowdale), and Attack/Defense Modes: A,B/F,G a shrewd, Machiavellian diplomat. He elven tribe that inhabited the Border Sixth-Level Elven Fighter has an absolutely phenomenal memory, Forest; perhaps they still do, but they Sixth-Level Magic-User able to recognize faces, sigils, even have not been heard from for over 30 S:17 I:17 W:15 D:14 C:12 CH:16 years. They appear to have been killed handwriting years after seeing it last, and he can sometimes almost recite ver- off or forced to withdraw by the Patron deity: Rillifane Rallathil. batim conversations overheard long increasing strength of humankind in Home city or country: Elven ago. Lanseril sees all, remembers all, the North, and by the orcs who seized Court. and thinks on his feet. the mines of Tethyamar and began raid- Current residence: Wanders (the ing from them into the lands about. Lanseril has brown hair, delicate fea- Dalelands). tures and blue eyes. He is ambidex- Both of Lanseril’s parents perished, Languages: Elvish, Common, Cha- trous, 6’2” tall, 100 pounds, and 48 together, on the trampled banks of the otic Good, Gnome, Halfling, Goblin, years old. He is generally friendly, but river Tesh, in a bloody struggle with Hobgoblin, Orcish, Gnoll. sometimes with a hint of condescen- raiders from the Citadel of the Raven. Weapon proficiencies: Dagger, sion. Since becoming a Knight, he has Six-year-old Lanseril was left behind. long sword, longbow. developed a great attachment to Sha- Fortunately, the druid Haemfaest, Non-weapon proficiencies/ dowdale and its people, whom he looked after the half-mad, disconsolate skills: Animal trainer (deer), bowyer/ regards as being under his protection boy; but one winter night, about a year fletcher, direction sense, swimming. later, the old druid fell prey to a pack of as much as the local woods are. Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — Possessions are few for this druid; he hungry wolves. The boy was pursued 11; Petrification/polymorph — 11; Rod/ has no great longing for worldly goods, by the wolves, and was forced to flee staff/wand — 9; Breath weapon — 13; and he understands how easily they south. He bears a near-obsessive hatred Spells — 10. come and go. Of note among the things for those animals to this day. Spells per level: 4/2/2/—. he does keep is the Firecrown, a magi- Eventually Lanseril arrived in Spells commonly memorized: cal treasure. It is a golden circlet whose Deepingdale, where, in Highmoon, he Affect normal fires, ESP fly, haste, mir- was able to carve out a niche for him- gems, usable twice every 200 turns, can

115 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS ror image, read magic, sleep, Tenser’s elven ally of Doust Sulwood and compa- swimming a great deal and is interested floating disc. ny, Merith was instantly accepted and in fine woodwork and carved adorn- Special abilities: 90% resistance to has remained in the company ever ment. At present, he only collects such sleep, charm; +1 to hit with bow, since. items, but some time in the far future sword; detect secret/concealed doors; Strongbow has served well among he might be interested enough to learn surprise. the knights; he is formidable as both how to craft them. Magical items and equipment: fighter and mage. Augmenting his mag- Since the elves left the Elven Court, Elfin chainmail +2, Sylabra (intelligent ical powers is a familiar, a black cat Merith has become increasingly reck- long sword; see below), shield +1, named Shadowclaw (AC 7, MV 13”, hp less in battle. He particularly hates orcs, three arrows +1, arrow of slaying dev- 4, INT 12). He used to have a pseudo- drow, and the Zhentarim. He dislikes ils, wand of magic detection (84 dragon, Esshkk, but that familiar per- dwarves, but in truth has had little con- charges), wand of wonder (37 charges), ished in a battle with evil nagas in the tact with them. oil of fiery burning, potion of invisibili- ruins of Myth Drannor. Sylabra is Merith’s favored weapon. It ty, scroll of protection from devils, long- The most important things in Merith’s is a silver long sword +3 of Chaotic bow, quiver of 16 silver-tipped arrows; life today are his wife and child. After Good alignment, with Intelligence 14 other equipment appropriate to spe- joining the Knights, he fell in love with and ego 6. It can detect invisible objects cific mission. their sorceress, Jhessail Silvertree. (1” radius), detect magic (1” radius), Merith Strongbow is a tall, black- They have had one daughter, Veluthil and glow with a silvery-blue radiance at haired moon elf, ambidextrous, with Silverbow (see Jhessail’s description, the bearer’s will. one eye blue and one green. He was above). Merith holds great respect for In addition to a traveling spellbook born 184 years ago, on the banks of the Jhessail’s superior magical powers, and containing the “spells commonly memo- River Duathamper in the Great Wood she in turn is impressed by his mixture rized,” listed above, Merith has a book (more commonly called the Elven of abilities as a multi-classed character. of 35 cantrips. This repertoire consists Court), to Laerune and Lianthorn The two cooperate in combat, each of the following: Strongbow. lending the other whatever assistance Useful — Chill, clean, color, dampen, The elves train their folk carefully might prove most efficient, and each dry, dust, flavor, freshen, gather, shine, and well, and Merith was no exception. also looking to protect the other. After spice, sprout, stitch, sweeten, tie, His father tutored him in the use of adventuring together for so long a time, warm, wrap. weapons, and they practiced their skills the two make a very effective team. Reversed — Dusty tangle, untie. in battle against the men, from the Jhessail and Merith are an effective Legerdemain — Change, hide, developing Dalelands and Moonsea cit- team in every other way. They are mute, palm, present. ies, who were trying to clear the forest, deeply in love, each willing to sacrifice Person-affecting — Giggle, sneeze, upon which the elves depended and anything and everything for the other, wink, yawn. which they cherished so dearly. or their child, Veluthil. Personal — Blue light, unlock. Merith’s first magical training came Merith is sometimes saddened by the Haunting — Footfall, groan, moan, from the “Gray Ladies” of Sem- thought of outliving Jhessail; but in typ- whistle. berholme, an elven retreat on the ical elven manner, he will not let it inter- shores of Lake Sember. fere with his appreciation of the joys of Doust Sulwood After the death of his parents 20 the present. And he is comforted by the ARMOR CLASS: 1 years ago, Merith sought to avenge thought of seeing Veluthil mature and MOVE: 12” their murder, but never managed to become as beautiful and formidable as Hit Points: 44 locate their slayer, a human mercenary her mother. NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 warrior-captain named Todelyn. To this Associating with humans, Merith’s DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or day he remains alert for any clue as to lifestyle is certainly different from that spell the whereabouts of that man, but he of the typical elf in the Elven Court, but SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use has become involved in pursuits more he enjoys it; and though the People (the SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil constructive than vengeance. elves) have left the Elven Court for the MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Central to those pursuits was Merith’s safety of Evermeet, Merith remains SIZE: M joining the Knights of Myth Drannor. with the Knights. He knows well that, ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good He was sent by the Elven Court, with with elven longevity, provided he is not PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil the purpose of influencing the Shadow- slain, he can expect to devote many Eighth-Level Human Cleric dale adventurers to steer them from future centuries to other activities. S:16 I:14 W:17 D:13 C:14 CH:12 actions harmful to the elven woods and Besides the typical elven affinities for ways. Carrying a letter from Luvon, a woodlands, animals, etc., Merith enjoys

116 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS

Patron deity: Tymora. careful, Doust embraced the religion of Rathan Thentraver Home city or country: Espar, Cor- Tymora, hoping that service to this god- ARMOR CLASS: 3 myr. dess of luck and adventure would help MOVE: 12” Current residence: Arabel, Cor- him break out of a life of drifting inac- Hit Points: 39 myr. tivity. His first tutor in clerical ways was NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Languages: Common, Chaotic Transtor Asberil. DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or Good. Doust soon distinguished himself as a spell Weapon proficiencies: Flail, solid fighter in the ranks of the Knights. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use mace, staff. Within two years of departing from SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Non-weapon proficiencies/ Espar, he found himself named by his MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil skills: Alertness, swimming, tracking, companions to be lord of Shadowdale, SIZE: M(6’, 232 pounds) weather sense. after Khelben “Blackstaff” Arunsun of ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Good Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — Waterdeep offered the rulership to the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil 7; Petrification/polymorph — 10; Rod/ party. Sixth-Level Human Cleric staff/wand — 11; Breath weapon 13; Soon thereafter, Doust married Islif — S:16 I:15 W:17 D:10 C:12 CH:9 Spells — 12. Lurelake, his companion-in-arms. They Undead turning: Skeleton — D*; have had one child, a son named Jhaok Patron deity: Tymora. Mummy — 7; Zombie — D* ; Spectre — Sulwood (see Islif Lurelake’s descrip- Home city or country: Arabel, 10; Ghoul D; Vampire 13; Shadow tion, above). — — Cormyr. — D; Ghost — 16; Wight — T; Lich — 19; Lord Doust Sulwood proved himself Current residence: Wanders (the Ghast — T; Special — 20; Wraith — 4. an effective, popular leader, in spite of Dalelands). Spells per level: 5/5/4/2/—. the chaos that accompanied his reign, Languages: Common, Chaotic Spells commonly memorized: with troubles from Zhentil Keep, Good. Aid, continual light, cure disease, cure Lashan of Scardale, and the Cult of the Weapon proficiencies: Club, flail, light wounds, cure serious wounds, Dragon resulting in the deaths of many mace. death’s door, dispel magic, dust devil, of Doust’s subjects. A lasting contribu- Non-weapon proficiencies/ find traps, magic stone, portent, protec- tion to the Dale was the “lord’s court,” a skills: Endurance, fungus identifica- tion from evil 10’ radius, remove fear, weekly meeting where the dalefolk tion, slow respiration. sanctuary, silence 15’ radius, spiritual could speak openly about their griev- Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — hammer. ances and views, and internal affairs 9; Petrification/polymorph — 12; Rod/ Magical items and equipment: could there be decided by the vote of staff/wand — 13; Breath weapon 15; Chain mail +1, ring of protection +1, the Council of Elders. — Spells — 14. shield +1, potion of clairaudience, cler- In the end, Doust relinquished his rul- Undead turning: Skeleton — D; ical spell scroll (with hold person, speak ership to the cavalier Mourngrym Mummy — 13; Zombie — D; Spectre — with monsters and spike stones), mace, Amcathra, also a Knight. It was difficult 16; Ghoul T; Vampire 20; Shadow staff, holy symbol, holy water. for Doust to reconcile the fickle — — —T; Ghost — —; Wight — 4; Lich — —; Yet another native of Espar, Doust demands of Lady Luck and still make Ghast — 7; Special — —; Wraith — 10. was born to Farflung Sulwood and his responsible decisions to ensure the Spells per level: 5/5/3/—. wife, Piirl. Doust’s mother perished in safety of the dalefolk. Since he did not Spells commonly memorized: childbirth. His father, a retired Cormyr- wish to forsake his goddess, he gave up Command, cure light wounds x 2, ian soldier, never remarried, nor even the dale rather than rule poorly. detect evil, enthrall, find traps, locate really recovered from the loss of his Doust has settled in Arabel with his object, meld into stone, messenger, beloved, taking comfort chiefly in drink wife and son. There they live peaceful- sanctuary, silence 15’ radius, slow poi- and, on rare occasion, in his son. Doust ly, and Doust is free to worship his deity son, water walk. group up lonely, afraid of a drunken at the local temple, unharried by the Magical items and equipment: father whom he never could seem to heavy burden of leadership. He particu- Footman’s mace +1, ring of the ram, oil adequately please, and his awkward- larly enjoys the freedom of leisure time of earth elemental invulnerability, ness earned him the nickname, “Clum- with his wife and raising his son. splint mail, shield, always carries sev- sum.” eral full skins of wine. As soon as he was old enough to A fat, jolly cleric, Rathan is the closest leave, Doust set off in search of adven- friend of the thief, Torm; the two are an ture with the other youths of his age — effective and amusing team in their Florin Falconhand, Semoor Wolftooth, adventures, each ribbing the other as etc. Though he is by nature quiet and

117 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS much and as well as they cooperate. Torm The thief is carefree and daring, nev- Rathan is a heavy drinker, much er resisting the chance to add a dash of ARMOR CLASS: 2 enamored of his ubiquitous wine; this bold, flashy daring to a venture. When MOVE: 12” makes him the butt of many of Torm’s once asked about his brazen attitude to Hit Points: 24 jests. But the cleric is not really a buf- adventuring, he responded, “The war NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 foon, as the light-fingered friend under- cries and all? Well, if you’re risking DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type stands; his “drunken sot” act hides his death, why not have fun? If I wanted to SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil sensitive, romantic character. Without risk death without having fun, I’d be a SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil alcohol, Rathan fears his sensitive and tax collector, not a thief.” On another MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil prudent nature would win out; but as a occasion, a person demanded of him, SIZE: M priest of Tymora, he needs to favor luck “Have you no honor?” to which Torm ALIGNMENT: Chaotic Neutral and live in danger. So he steels himself lightly confessed, “Aye, indeed. I keep it PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil with drink; and to be able to drink at the bottom of my backpack and take Sixth-Level Human Thief much, he eats like a starving wolf. This it out to shine it up and look at it on S:13 I:12 W:12 D:16 C:11 CH:15 makes him rather obese, but permits windy nights in the wilderness, by the him to drink a great deal without stag- fire. It looks grand, I tell you. But it is Patron deities: Mask and Tymora. gering and slurring his jests. poor company, and doesn’t keep one Home city or country: Westgate. Born to a merchant family of shoe- warm.” Current residence: Wanders (the makers in Arabel on Kythorn 6, Year of Perhaps to keep himself warm, Torm Dalelands). the Thunder, Rathan was the child of has cut quite a swath through the ladies Languages: Common, Chaotic Neu- Rathmur and Ulla Thentraver. From of Sembia, Hillsfar, and (surprisingly) tral, Thieves’ Cant. Rafhmur, Rathan inherited his jovial, Zhentil Keep. Torm’s charm easily wins Weapon proficiencies: Dagger, bluntly honest manner, while his him many fair maidens — and some- club, long sword. plump, homely features can be traced times angry fathers and brothers when Non-weapon proficiencies/ to his mother. Both parents died of chol- he departs in pursuit of another adven- skills: Blind-fighting, riding, rope use, era before Rathan had come of age, and ture or another lass. (He currently swimming. the boy found himself quickly inducted steers clear of all three of those places.) Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — into the priesthood of Tymora, so that One romance in which Torm is now 12; Petrification/polymorph — 11; Rod/ his greedy uncles could acquire all the involved seems to be gaining unusual staff/wand — 12; Breath weapon — 15; family wealth. (for Torm) longevity, and this is with Spells — 13. Segril, Rathan’s superior in Tymora’s Illistyl Elventree, a fellow Knight of Thieves’ abilities: Pick pockets temple in Arabel, commanded the Myth Drannor: Torm continues to dally 55%, open locks 52%, find/remove young priest to go out to “spread the with other women, but finds a particu- traps 45%, move silently 47%, hide in Lady’s favor (and influence) among lar attraction for that young sorceress, shadows 37%, hear noise 20%, climb adventurers, those active in strife, and she has helped bring out a softer, walls 92%, read languages 30%. change, and perilous deeds in the multi- kinder side of the rogue. Some Knights Magical items and equipment: versei.” Many speculate that Segril just speculate that if he ever grows most of Bracers of defense AC 4, bag of holding wanted to be rid of him. the way out of his “perpetual adoles- (a backpack, actually with a contents The Dalelands were where Rathan cence,” the two might settle down in limit of 500 pounds), cloak of comfort found himself, and he joined the ranks some sort of stable relationship. (detailed in FR4, THE MAGISTER), two of the Knights of Myth Drannor in Sha- Torm is handsome, of slim build, with throwing daggers +1, long sword, dowdale. Among them, he has proven green eyes, black hair, and a fine mus- appropriate traveling gear, and miscel- stout and fearless in combat; in one par- tache. He likes to dress extravagantly; laneous equipment. ticularly fierce battle with mages of the on special occasions he wears a pen- A smooth-tongued trickster, Torm is Zhentarim, he won a ring of the ram. dant of a king’s tear (an extremely rare consistently and lightheartedly insult- Rathan is 6’ tall, 232 pounds, and left- gem, unique to the Realms) set in a web- ing, obscene, and outrageous in his handed. He has brown hair, a stubbly like mesh of electrum. speech. He is the cockiest of all the mustache, rivetting brown eyes, and Netha, a prostitute of Westgate, bore Knights, remorselessly goading even large strong features (which earned Torm; it is generally believed that his adventuring fellows to the brink of him the nickname “Strongjaws” in his Dathguld, a lord of that city, was his belting him; the women often do hit childhood). father. This noble lineage is the reason him, hard and accurately. His best that the Night Masks (a band of thieves friend, Rathan Thentraver, is the most and assassins) have on several occa- common butt of Torm’s jests and jibes. sions tried to end Torm’s life. They

118 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS probably have been hired by Orgule, a flashy items, and he has an interest in group was, by and large, most devoted rival lord; Torm therefore avoids items with applications outside adven- to the ideals of profit and adventure. Westgate in his travels. His favored ali- turing (e.g., a comb that grooms the It was a tragedy that changed the as, “Rathgar,” is becoming far too well- user when its command word is spo- Company’s orientation from profit to its known for safe, continued use. ken). The thief can rarely resist the present tripartite goals of peace, free- In battle, the thief prefers to wield a chance to obtain a new item, by trade, dom, and justice. Within the Company’s long sword, and sometimes one of his trick, or theft. first year its leader, Alain Llanistaph, daggers as well. (He always carries one was slain and could not be resurrected. in each boot.) (A special word of thanks must go to (See the description of his brother, Tar- Torm has a particular fascination Ed Greenwood for providing reams of deth, below, for more details.) This led with magical devices. Besides those list- valuable notes on the Knights; also to be the other companions to wonder: Was ed above among his possessions, the thanked are those players who first Alain’s death really worthwhile? Was thief normally carries 1d4 minor items. brought to life the personalities profit really worth the life of so noble a The following table may be used to described above.) man? Especially one who really wasn’t determine them specifically: himself interested in the money? Alain The Company of usually made large donations to charity, d% and it was no secret that he had hoped Roll Result Eight the Company would grow to work for 01 Any item The Company of Eight is an adventur- higher ideals than profit. Kaleene Thal- 02 Beads of force (1d3) ing band of the country of Tethyr (see wood became the Company’s leader, 03 Cyclocone FR3, EMPIRES OF THE SANDS). Since and her suggestion that service take 04 Dart of the hornets’ nest its formation 13 years ago, the Compa- precedence over profit was accepted. 05 Deck of illusions ny has risen in fame. The Company’s The companions swore an oath to each 06-08 Dust, magical (appearance, dis- efforts for justice in Tethyr’s power vac- other and their cause; and they pro- appearance, dryness, illusion, or uum have demonstrated that, even nounced the new eighth companion to tracelessness) after the fall of the Tethyr kings, there be their guide and guardian, the Lady 09 Eyes of minute seeing or Lens of may be the means and the will to of Truth and Justice. detection achieve a political situation that is nei- After this reorientation, the Compa- 10 Fire gyregam (see FR4, THE ther anarchy nor despotism. With per- ny became involved in a number of MAGISTER, for details) severance and luck, the Company may small projects: driving away humanoids 11 Keoghtom’s ointment also be instrumental in guaranteeing and other lesser monsters, miscellane- 12 Mist of rapture (see FR4, THE that Tethyr’s next dynasty (if there is to ous small tasks to assist individuals in MAGISTER, for details) be one) starts off on the path of right- need, plus the staple caravan escort 13 Necklace of missiles (1d4 mis- eousness, peace, and freedom. work on the Trade Way that earned it siles) When the Company was founded, it its living. 14 Nolser’s marvelous pigments had eight members: Mirthal Aendryr The first real measure of fame came 15-59 Potion (any type, consult (male elf magic-user/thief), Ralma to the Company 11 years ago. A green UNEARTHED ARCANA tables) Damond (human female fighter), Nes- dragon, apparently from the eastern 60-62 Quaal’s feather tokens trun Farclutch (human male fighter), depths of the Forest of Tethir, was feast- 63-97 Scroll (protection or not more Chiaelin Frendel (female half-elf ing on caravans that traveled the Trade than four spells; consult fighter/cleric), the brothers Alain and Way. Then it was so bold as to assault UNEARTHED ARCANA tables) Tardeth Llanistaph (human male rang- and plunder a small village north of 98 Sheet of smallness ers), Thiel Ralmun (human male magic- Mosstone. Fear swept the region: Mer- 99 Sovereign glue user), and Kaleene Thalwood (human chants couldn’t find guards or drovers 00 Ultimate solution female druid). These people had all willing to risk the Trade Way, villages adventured together at one time or called meetings and tried to muster The DM is encouraged to expand this another, and they decided that they defenses against the rampaging lizard. table with items from other sources would do best to come together as an Even before the lord mayor of Mos- (such as DRAGON®Magazine, and his organized group. Some people — most stone’s decree offering a rich prize for own imagination). Appropriate items notably Alain Llanistaph — believed the dragon’s head was issued, the fledg- are those with limited charges and/or right off that the Company ought to be ling Company of Eight had quickly risen relatively minor effects; in any case, devoted to a noble cause, like justice to the challenge. avoid anything with an XP value greater and peace in Tethyr; but initially, the The Company did slay the dragon than 1,000. Torm particularly likes (and discovered Chiaelin’s sword to be a

119 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS green dragon slayer; it is now a posses- army, so he seems the biggest problem of the group, and leader — the latter sion of the halfling, Paddy), but at the on the horizon. Though there is diversi- only to a certain extent, since any deci- bitter price of Kaleene Thalwood’s life. ty of political views within the Compa- sion of significance is made by the vote The Company earned a great deal of ny, all agree that tyranny under of all the companions, but Tardeth’s respect, however; perhaps as much of Gallowglass is entirely undesirable. seniority and dedication gives his opin- it came from the immediate donation of Changes have affected the Company ion much weight. the lord mayor’s reward to charity as over the years; only one of its seven Friends and foes: Over the years, from the actual defeat of the dragon. current members, Tardeth Llanistaph, the Company has acquired quite a num- The dragon’s hoard also found good goes back to the Company’s creation. Of ber of useful allies and at least as many use: With it the Company constructed a the six characters who have been enemies. Six brief examples follow; it is headquarters in the forest, and named replaced over the years, three died and by no means a comprehensive selec- it Cayr Thalwood, in honor of their late three retired. The retirees all remain on tion, and the complete list is, of course, companion (see below). very good terms with the group, always changing. It should give the DM Since then, the Company of Eight’s though contact is not very frequent. some ideas, though, of what resources renown has continued to rise steadily — Mirthal Aendryr (a Suldusk wood elf, the Company may have and what diffi- especially after the disintegration of all fifth-level magic-user/seventh-level culties might appear in the future. royal and much noble power in the Ten thief) departed only about a year ago First some friends: Jordy Gallum Black Days of Eleint a decade ago. With and was replaced by Manny Arbustle, (eighth-level human male fighter) is the the disappearance of central govern- Arkaneus’ druidic apprentice. Aendryr chief of the constabulary of Mosstone. ment, the Company’s leader, Tardeth, had wandered Faerun for a quarter Almost everyone in that town holds the has recognized the group’s purpose as century and then joined the Company, Company of Eight in high regard. What being all the more vital. The Company and simply wished to return to his peo- makes Jordy special is that he is a long- has continued to drive off monsters and ple for a time. Besides attending to his time friend of Tardeth; and, as an offi- marauders (including another dragon), own business, Aendryr takes care to cer in the army of Tethyr, he was a and in slow times, the companions still maintain a sanctuary for the Company comrade of Marilyn Haresdown years may be found guarding merchant cara- of Eight in the southeast of the forest. ago. vans as they traverse the forest. But Ralma and Nestrun Damond (humans Tethirmin (13th-level half-elf druid) is political matters have also attracted the fighters of eighth and seventh level, the arch-druid of Mosstone, and an Company’s attention. On the small respectively) settled down in Pailstone extremely powerful and influential fig- scale, oppressive lords have been pres- to marry and start a family. They now ure in the area. It was he who tutored sured into easing the burdens on their have three children: son Tardeth (age Arkaneus Silvermane decades ago, and subjects, releasing persons wrongly 5), daughters Kaleene (2 1/2 and Arkanea the two remain close. Rumor has it that imprisoned, and so forth. The most (1). After Ralma and Nestrun left six Arkaneus is to succeed Tethirmin if that famous political endeavors of the Com- years ago, Marilyn Haresdown and druid ascends to a higher position, pany (which have given it the leverage Sylvanus Moondrop took their places in retires, or otherwise vacates his post. to do things like pressure leaders) were the Company. The young family still How this would affect the status of the successful effort to secure peace helps the Company by maintaining a Arkaneus in the Company — if he after a bloodbath in northeastern sanctuary in the northeast arm of the would accept the position at all — is a Tethyr eight years ago (an aftershock of Forest of Tethir, and by paying careful matter of intense speculation in local the kingdom’s fall), and, most notably, attention to all news and political devel- druidic circles. the Company’s central role in the orga- opments in the country’s northeastern Garlokantha (small, sub-adult, female nization and leadership of the forces region. gold dragon) dwells in the east-central that crushed the rule of the late tyrant A list of the present members of the Forest of Tethir. The Company of Eight of Ithmong four years ago. Company of Eight, in order of seniority, saved her from a band of evil adventur- The Company’s current object of is as follows: Tardeth Llanistaph, Arka- ers three years ago. She would happily scrutiny is again Ithmong and its neus Silvermane (human male druid), repay the Company with any favor she present ruler, Ernest Gallowglass, who Marilyn Haresdown (human female could grant. seems determined to follow in his pred- fighter), Sylvanus Moondrop (elf male And then some foes: Argrum Black- ecessor’s totalitarian footsteps. Of fighter), Lawantha Silendia (human spear (ninth-level half-orc male fighter/ course, Tardeth and his fellows do keep female magic-user), Paddy Stoutfellow 10th-level thief) is a bandit chieftain an eye on all Tethyr, as well as sur- (halfling male fighter/thief), and Man- operating along the Trade Way with a rounding lands; but Gallowglass has fred “Manny” Arbustle (human male keen skill for organization. His own been flexing Ithmong’s economic mus- druid). raiders have become the most success- cles of late, and is said to be amassing an Tardeth is recognized as spokesman ful — in part by learning early on that

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the Company of Eight is to be avoided. level human male fighter) is a petty respite. In each is a cache of food and He wishes to form an alliance of the lordling who has often offended the weapons and some dry blankets, and most powerful bandit groups; of Company’s sense of justice and has materials for minor repairs (needles, course, such an organization would been pressured into change. More than cloth, bowstrings, etc.), and supplies of surely attract the Company’s attention, anything, this has wounded his pride. bandages and dried healing herbs for and rumors of it are spreading already. He therefore plots to make the lives of treating wounds, poison, and illness. That is fine with Argrum, because a sec- the companions miserable (especially As was mentioned above, the one in ond goal of his is to trap and eliminate those of Tardeth and Marilyn) in any the southeast is maintained by the Sul- the Company and thus make banditry way he can. Vain Lord Lylburg has even dusk elf Aendryr, and the one in the easier for all. considered hiring an assassin, but northeast by Nestrun and Ralma Tleobar (10th-level female drow hasn’t quite mustered the boldness to Damond. A few of other sanctuaries far fighter/fifth-level magic-user) encoun- do so. from the main base (the pair on the tered the Company of Eight three years Cayr Thalwood is the name given to peninsula, for example) are stocked and ago in the Forest of Tethir, when, with the primary base of the Company of kept in order by friendly elf tribes (who some companions, she was attempting Eight, located about 30 miles southeast also use them when necessary); other- to slay and rob a gold dragon, Garlokan- of Mosstone in the Forest of Tethir. It is wise, the company members must tha. Tleobar, unlike her compatriots, named after the druidess Kaleene Thal- themselves periodically check their escaped and survived. She holds quite a wood, an original member of the com- upkeep. grudge against the Company — espe- pany, who was killed by the green cially when she realized that the elf, dragon 11 years ago. Sylvanus Moondrop, was the same one Besides the main outpost near Mos- who had led a daring and successful stone, the Company maintains a dozen assault on her home in the Forest of Mir small sanctuaries, scattered through 15 years earlier. The Company is totally the forest. They are small, concealed unaware of Tleobar and her thirst for locations (caves, hidden tree forts, cam- revenge. ouflaged huts in dense portions of the Lord Voranwell of Lylburg (ninth- wood, etc.), convenient for shelter and

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Manfred Arbustle sapling — appropriately reflecting Man- him a little bit uncomfortable (especial- fred’s status, perhaps. ly the seemingly invincible Tardeth). ARMOR CLASS: 8 This druid joined the Company only The one person Manfred trusts least MOVE: 1” about a year ago, replacing the retiring of all is the “Calishite witch,” Lawantha. Hit Points: 16 elven mage/thief, Mirthal Aendryr. His family in Velen imbued him with a NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Manfred is Arkaneus Silvermane’s prejudice against foreigners, especially DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or apprentice; he was adopted into the Calishites; his father as a youth was cap- spell Company of Eight chiefly on account of tured by pirates and sold into slavery in SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use his mentor’s words of praise. He shows Calimshan. Besides of this automatic SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below a lot of promise and eagerness, but has distrust, Manny thinks Lawantha is MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil yet to decisively prove himself. arrogant, condescending, and very arti- SIZE: M Manfred’s position in the Company of ficial. Unfortunately, he also finds her ALIGNMENT: Neutral Eight is, from his perspective, uncom- very attractive, and he is jealous of the PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil fortable. Manfred is quite insecure; he fact that she has studied the flora of his Third-Level Human Druid hasn’t quite found a niche for himself home peninsula even more than he. S:12 I:14 W:15 D:10 C:12 CH:15 among the Company members. He does Manfred became a druid on account not wish to be simply Silvermane’s of his great love of nature; this love sus- Home city or country: Velen, apprentice, nor does he enjoy feeling tains him throughout the trials and trib- Tethyr. like a junior member, almost a child, on ulations of proving himself. Whenever Languages: Common, Neutral, Dru- account of his relative lack of experi- he feels stressed, he finds great relief idic, Elvish. ence. This is why the diminutive nick- by going alone into the forest to be with Weapon proficiencies: Quarter- name, “Manny,” which everyone uses, nature, absorbing himself in fascina- staff, sling. grates on him so much. It makes him tion with its countless wonders. Non-weapon proficiencies/ feel like he’s on the level of the children skills: Horse riding, plant lore, who tag along after the Company Marilyn Haresdown animal lore. whenever they pass through a village. ARMOR CLASS: -1 Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — In his desire to prove himself, Manny MOVE: 12” 10; Petrification/polymorph — 13; Rod/ is wont to be overeager, experimental, Hit Points: 69 staff/wand — 14; Breath weapon — 16; even reckless at times. But still, he is all NO. OF ATTACKS: 3/2 Spells — 15. too aware of his inadequacies; while he DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type Spells per level: 5/3/1/—. could hold his own against a few SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil Spells commonly memorized: humanoids, he does not nearly SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Animal friendship, call lightning, cure approach the skill level of any other MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil light wounds, detect snares and pits, Company member. Being suspended SIZE: M entangle, flame blade, invisibility to ani- between his eagerness and his insecuri- ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good mals, obscurement, shillelagh. ties causes Manfred sometimes to act PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Special abilities: +2 on saves vs. sullen or rebellious. It is tragic that 11th-Level Human Fighter fire and lightning; identify plant, ani- sometime, faced with an important S:16 I:12 W:16 D:14 C:14 CH:12 mal, pure water; pass without trace. task, his eagerness, or even his sense of Magical items and equipment: duty, may succumb to a poor self- Home city or country: Castle Leather armor, quarterstaff, four image. Tethyr, Tethyr. throwing daggers, sling, 20 sling bul- Manfred is, naturally, very close to his Languages: Common, Neutral lets, light war horse (AC 7, MV 24”) hp mentor, Arkaneus. He is devotedly loyal Good, Elvish, Dwarf, Orcish. 6), saddle and tack, large sack, one to the older druid, and trusts him abso- Weapon proficiencies: Broad week’s provisions, water skin, bowls, lutely, though he may act as if this were sword (specialization), composite bow, two small boxes of mistletoe, holly, etc. not the case, for the sake of proving to battle-ax, dagger. Manfred Arbustle is a young fellow, himself that he is more than Silver- Non-weapon proficiencies/ who looks even younger with his boy- mane’s shadow. Manny also thinks skills: Bowyer/fletcher, horse riding, ish freckles. His hair is sandy brown, highly of the elf, Sylvanus, and hopes to healing. his eyes blue, and he likes best to wear become better friends with him; he is a Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — olive or brown hooded robes over his great admirer of elvenkind for their 7; Petrification/polymorph — 8; Rod/ leather armor. His weapon of choice, a ability to coexist with nature. staff/wand — 9; Breath weapon — 8; quarterstaff that also serves as walking He gets along well with most of the Spells — 10. staff, is hardly more than an uncured rest of the party, though they do make

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Magical items and equipment: Tardeth Llanistaph. spell Scale mail +3, large shield +3, dancing Marilyn’s overriding concern is the SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use and see broad sword +3, potion of extra heal- restructuring of Tethyr — which is only below ing, ring of swimming, broad sword, understandable, since the dissolution of SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil composite short bow, two quivers, 30 the old dynasty claimed the lives of MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil arrows, 10 silver-tipped arrows, battle- most of her relatives, friends, and SIZE: M ax, dagger, light war horse (AC 7, MV comrades-in-arms. She is almost cer- ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good 24”, hp 9), saddle and tack, saddlebags, tainly the person in the Company of PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil three large sacks, two weeks’ rations, Eight most devoted to the reunification 15th-Level Human Ranger two water skins, three torches, lantern, of Tethyr. What she would like to see is S:18/23 I:15 W:16 D:13 C:17 CH:14 tent, bedroll. a new dynasty — hopefully with blood Of noble blood, Marilyn Haresdown ties to the old, for legitimacy. The Com- Home city or country: Ithmong, was originally destined to be a lady-in- pany, she believes, must serve to facili- Tethyr. waiting in Castle Tethyr. She was much tate the establishment of a new, single, Languages: Common, Neutral more interested in horses, archery, and just government over Tethyr. Good, Thorass, Elvish, Halfling. swordplay than courtly matters and Of course, not everyone in the com- Weapon proficiencies: Long husband-seeking, however. Against her pany agrees with her; Sylvanus Moon- sword (specialization), longbow, spear, family’s desires, she ended up with an drop has the most different political dagger, light crossbow. officer’s commission in the army of views, and the two often are at odds. Non-weapon proficiencies/ Tethyr rather than a noble’s wedding Fortunately, all members agree that the skills: Horse riding, animal handling, band. She was a successful leader, well group’s cohesiveness and cooperation animal lore, blind-fighting, direction respected, and a skilled fighter. After a are paramount, and they are willing to sense, fire building, weather sense. couple of years, she married a fellow restrain their own wishes and political Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — officer, Dorian Haresdown. convictions before the decisions are 2; Petrification/polymorph — 2; Rod/ Unfortunately, not long thereafter, reached by the whole party. (Naturally staff/wand — 3; Breath weapon — 2; came the fall of Castle Tethyr. Marilyn this doesn’t preclude a great deal of Spells — 4. managed to escape the carnage; her heated debate.) Spells per level: Druid — 2/2/—; husband, Dorian, was not so fortunate. Blonde, green-eyed Marilyn is a very magic-user — 2/2/—. As she fled to the northeast, Marilyn active, energetic character. She is still Spells commonly memorized: found little comfort in the knowledge very fond of horse riding and archery, Druid — Cure light wounds, pass with- that her love had died loyally defending and she likes to fashion her own bows out trace, reflecting pool, speak with his king. and arrows, with greatest care and animals. Magic-user — Invisibility, mag- For about three years, Marilyn adven- expertise. ic missile, protection from evil, read tured in the region of Cormyr and Sem- Her closest friend in the Company is magic. bia, and even visited Shadowdale. Lawantha, the Calishite sorceress. They Special abilities: +15 damage vs. There she made the acquaintance of share, among other things, a great giant-class monsters; surprise foes 3 in Elminster and his scribe, Lhaeo, and interest in medicinal herbs. Often the 6; surprised on 1 in 6; can use scrying she related to them the tale of what had two take long walks together, talking magical items; tracking. befallen the kingdom of Tethyr. They and collecting plants. Marilyn prefers Magical items and equipment: also discussed what might be the the open plains of southern Tethyr to Ring of protection +3, chain mail +4, present state and the future of the the forest where the Company is based, “The Scales of Justice” (intelligent country. but she has come to appreciate the for- sword — see below), spear +1, amulet This conversation was a turning point est more and more through what she vs. undead, 13 arrows +1, six arrows for Marilyn. Afterward, she was deter- has learned from the other Company +3, arrow of dragon slaying, arrow of mined to return to her homeland, there members. giant slaying, longbow, large shield, to attempt to right the wrongs of quiver, 10 arrows, nine silver-tipped treachery in the last dynasty. She found Tardeth Llanistaph arrows, dagger, medium war horse (AC that Tethyr had calmed quite a bit from 7, MV 18”) hp 12), light crossbow, case ARMOR CLASS: 5 or 0 (see below) the “Ten Black Days of Eleint,” when she of 20 bolts, 50’ rope, saddle and saddle- MOVE: 12” had left; still, there was much chaos. Six bags, two water skins, wineskin, flint Hit Points: 100 years ago, she quite readily joined the and tinder, tent, spellbook. NO. OF ATTACKS: 2/1 Company of Eight, to which she was Tall, broad-shouldered, handsome (5/2 with specialization) introduced by a former fellow officer, Tardeth appears the archetypical DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or Jordy Gallum of Mosstone, a friend of mighty hero, and many people would

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regard him as such. He is indeed power- support Tardeth’s wish that Alain not Company know the true history of the ful, honorable, and just, but not with- be replaced in the Company’s ranks. eighth member. Arkaneus Silvermane out flaws. The druidess met her own end hardly knew of Alain, and suspects that he Of the eight original members of the a year later, and the ranks were replen- once was in the company. He has Company, only Tardeth remains. This is ished by the addition of the druid, Arka- hypothesized to himself that Tardeth a result both of his devotion to the neus Silvermane. Tardeth became the had something to do with Alain’s no causes the Company espouses and of Company leader, and has been ever longer being with the Company, but is the fact that the Company runs quite since. tactful enough never to have brought smoothly under the ranger’s implicit The empty eighth spot serves as a up the issue. leadership. These two points are widely constant reminder to Tardeth of his Tardeth normally wears leather and a recognized, but in addition, Tardeth has own faults and weaknesses, and the ring of protection +3; if he expects to a very personal reason for his total gravity of his mission. He has almost engage in combat, he dons his suit of devotion to the Company and its single-mindedly devoted himself to his chain mail +4. He is proficient and endeavors. brother’s ideals, as if doing so could comfortable with a number of weapons This personal reason is wrapped up change the fact of Alain’s senseless (note especially his longbow and magic in the identity and fate of the mysteri- death; at the least, Tardeth can find arrows), but always prefers to use ous “eighth companion.” One can’t help comfort in trying to do for Tethyr what Scales. but notice that the famed Company of Alain would have done (though, he The ranger is affable and optimistic Eight has but seven members. Tardeth fears, Alain would have done it better). (but not overly sol, belying the internal will quickly explain that this is a bit of The whole issue remains a major psy- doubts and turmoil that he has almost superstition: seven is a lucky number, chological scar and weakness for Tar- even hidden from himself. In maintain- and the eighth spot is kept for “The deth. There is no living person with ing the group, he has always sought a Lady of Truth and Justice,” who symbol- whom Tardeth discusses the matter. balance of regions, races, and tempera- izes the whole point of the Company’s The only way he eases his conscience is ments as well as skills among the com- existence (as Tardeth sees it). to devote himself more and more to panions. While that isn’t untrue, it fails to con- Alain’s goals. Tardeth is on good terms with every- vey the whole story. At its inception, the Someone who pries to closely into the one in the group. He sees much poten- Company did have eight members. Tar- identity of the eighth companion could tial in Manny, whom he thinks may lead deth’s older brother, Alain Llanistaph, soon alienate Tardeth; the same would the “next generation” of the Company; was the man who really gathered befall someone inquiring much about Lawantha and Arkaneus have taught together the group in the first place. He the ranger’s family. He says only that he him magical spells and druidic lore, believed that the Company needed to had a brother, but no one of his immedi- respectively, and so forth. be more than a fraternity of monster- ate family still lives. The Company is his Politically unlike Marilyn, Tardeth bashers; it needed to take a role in shap- family now. does not see himself so much as a build- ing the future of Tethyr and caring for Also, Tardeth is unusually possessive er; but neither does he adopt Moon- its people’s welfare. of his sword (formerly Alain’s), which drop’s vision of Tethyr politics. Tardeth Tragically, Alain was the first member he calls “The Scales of Justice.” This is more certain of what he doesn’t want of the Company to die, and barely a intelligent blade, a long sword +3 (Neu- —namely, tyrants such as Ernest Gal- year after the group’s creation. Equally tral Good, INT 15, Ego 8, detect traps, lowglass of Ithmong. If a decent monar- tragic, it was not a necessary death, nor magic; heals once/day; speaks Neutral chy could be set up, Tardeth would lend was it even directly for Tethyr’s wel- Good and Common), belonged to Alain, it his support; but in the meantime, he fare; in fact, Alain was killed while try- and witnessed his death. The man and thinks he is more than busy fighting ing to undo mistakes made by his young sword understand each other well. injustice and trying to keep Tethyr from and (at the time) somewhat careless Once, long ago, Tardeth became men- slipping into total chaos. brother, Tardeth. Three beings wit- tally unstable as a result of difficulty in nessed the death and understood the dealing with guilt over his brother’s blame that was Tardeth’s: Tardeth him- death. Fortunately, “Scales” recognized self, Alain’s intelligent sword (see what was happening, and took control below), and the late half-elven druidess, of his possessor. It prevented a major Kaleene Thalwood. catastrophe for the Company. Since Kaleene ascended to leadership of the then, Tardeth has come to rely on Scales Company. She didn’t deepen Tardeth’s as a sort of security blanket should such wound by explaining the situation to an event again occur. the rest of the Company, but she did None of the current members of the

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Sylvanus Moondrop shan, Sylvanus twice braved the Forest Trade Way. There, he and elven friends, of Mir in assaults on drow holdings. and sometimes Paddy Stoutfellow, ARMOR CLASS: 0 Moondrop is not unusual in appear- make sport by playing vigilantes and MOVE: 12” ance, among wood elves of the Realms. driving away bandits who try to harass Hit Points: 36 He is tall and slender, and his copper travelers. This has done much to NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 hair frames a long, smooth-skinned increase Moondrop’s personal renown, (2/1 with specialization) face, also of coppery hue; the shadows as well as, indirectly, that of the Compa- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type in his face and hair seem to have a ny of Eight. SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil green tint, but perhaps that is only SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil from the startling verdance of his eyes. Lawantha Silendia MAGIC RESISTANCE: See below Sylvanus is unusually gregarious for a ARMOR CLASS: -1 SIZE: M wood elf. He enjoys meeting people of MOVE: 12” ALIGNMENT: Neutral all backgrounds, and he is delighted by Hit Points: 33 PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil the diversity he finds in the world. He NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 Sixth-Level Wood Elven Fighter enjoys Paddy’s company best of those in DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or S:15 I:13 W:13 D:17 C:14 CH:16 the Company, and loves to plot jokes spell with the halfling. Home city or country: Forest of Though ambivalent on most issues, SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil Tethir. Moondrop is unusually vocal and MAGIC RESISTANCE: Nil Languages: Elvish, Common, Neu- unyielding on the the question of Tethy- SIZE: M tral, Treant, Woodland Mammals. r’s political future. He does not wish to ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good Weapon proficiencies: Long see a reunited Tethyr, under the rule of PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil sword, longbow (specialization), short Ithmong or any other city. Rather, he 12th-Level Human Magic-User sword, dagger. desires a balance of city-states in a weak S:9 I:17 W:15 D:16 C:13 CH:16 Non-weapon proficiencies/ alliance. The “city-states” would include skills: Horse riding, hunting. the human cities and the non-human Home city or country: Calimport, Saving throws Paralysis/poison — lands — specifically, the elven 10; Petrification/polymorph 11; Rod/ Calimshan. — Elmanesse tribe of the Forest of Tethir, Languages: Common, Neutral staff/wand — 12; Breath weapon — 12; and the halflings of the Purple Hills. Good, Elvish, Dwarf, Halfling, Orcish. Spells — 13. These states would not only cooperate Special abilities: 90% resistance to to mutual advantage, but would serve Weapon proficiencies: Quarter- staff, dagger. sleep and charm; +1 to hit with bow, to check and balance each others’ Non-weapon proficiencies/ short sword, long sword; 60’ infra- power. The duty of the Company of skills: Horse riding, swimming, fun- vision; find secret, concealed doors; Eight, according to the elf, is to see that move silently. the balance is maintained, by keeping gus identification, sound analysis, rope use, healing. Magical items and equipment: tabs on goings-on and taking action Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — Longbow +2, long sword +1, boots of when necessary (as may be the case speed, eight arrows +2, two arrows 8; Petrification/polymorph — 6; Rod/ with Ernest Gallowglass of Ithmong), staff/wand — 4; Breath weapon — 8; +4, potion of fire giant strength, stone without too much interference in each Spells — 5. of good luck, ring of regeneration, city-state’s business. splint mail, large shield, two quivers, 20 Spells per level: 4/4/4/4/4/1/—. Archery is one of Moondrop’s favor- Spells commonly memorized: arrows, 10 silver-tipped arrows, dag- ite activities, and this actually helps the Conjure elemental, dimension door, fly, ger, short sword, light war horse (AC 7, group get along. Though he vehement- hold monster, ice storm, invisibility 10’ MV 24”, hp 13), saddle and tack, saddle- ly disagrees with Marilyn Haresdown in radius, knock, lightning bolt, magic mis- bags, one weeks provisions, two water the political arena, and neither is will- sile x 2, mirror image, polymorph other, skins, 50’ rope, small chest. ing to compromise his or her views polymorph self, protection from nor- Sylvanus Moondrop, a wood elf of the (their “discussions” too often too quick- mal missiles, read magic, sleep, stinking Elmanesse tribe, has been a member of ly become shouting contests), Sylvanus cloud, stone to flesh, telekinesis, tele- the Company of Eight for six years. Pri- does deeply respect her talent in fash- port, wizard lock. or to joining, he adventured in Tethyr ioning bows and arrows; and she, in Magical items and equipment: and some of northern Calimshan. In turn, respects his skill in their use. Cloak of protection +3, wand of light- Tethyr, he is most familiar with the cen- When not involved in Company mat- ning bolts (43 chargess), dagger +2, tral and southern portions of the Forest ters, Sylvanus can often be found trav- bracers of defense AC 4, potion of of Tethir, and the Trade Way. In Calim- eling the forest, especially along the

125 ADVENTURING BROTHERHOODS green dragon control, scroll of protec- lence and loyalty. The person who Arkaneus Silvermane tion from undead, scroll of protection understands her least is Manfred ARMOR CLASS: 8 from demons, ring of air elemental con- Arbustle, the Company’s youngest and MOVE: 12” Hit Points: 69 trol, crystal ball, gem of seeing, quarter- newest member. Manfred often thinks NO OF ATTACKS: 1 staff, four daggers, light war horse (AC of Lawantha as an arrogant, conde- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type or 7, MV 24”) hp 9), saddle and tack, sad- scending foreigner who must only be in spell dlebags, tent, bedroll, two weeks’ provi- the Company to show off her talent for SPECIAL ATTACKS: Spell use sions, three water skins, wineskin, magic, if not for some unknown, sinis- SPECIAL DEFENSES: See below spellbooks. ter end. Lawantha is unaware of Man- MAGIC RESISTANCE: See below Lawantha is a Calishite sorceress who fred’s hostility (tinged, as is typical of SIZE: M has been with the Company of Eight for such feelings, with a smattering of jeal- ALIGNMENT: Neutral four years. Her predecessor, one Thiel ousy), and unaware that her frequent PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Ralmun, was also a Calishite mage — use of his nickname, “Manny,” which 12th-Level Human Druid her cousin, in fact. He was slain when seems to her a gesture of camaraderie, the Company was leading the over- only makes her appear all the more Home city or country: Mosstone, throw of the former tyrant of Ithmong. condescending in his eyes. Tethyr. Lawantha came to Tethyr to recover Before she joined the Company, Languages: Common, Neutral, her cousin’s body and bring it home to Lawantha had traveled and adventured Druid, Centaur, Dryad, Elvish, Gnome, Calimport for burial. The Company far and wide, but most intensively in Hill Giant, Lizardman, Manticore, escorted her on this journey, and on the her native Calimshan. The Spider Sprite, Treant, Green Dragon, Halfling, way, they faced numerous perils. Swamp’s secrets have particularly Dwarfish. Lawantha was impressed by the Com- intrigued her, especially its botany: A Weapon proficiencies: Staff, dag- pany’s skill, spirit and cohesiveness; and number of useful herbs and fungi are ger, hammer. the company members, looking for an apparently unique to that region of Non-weapon proficiencies/ addition to their ranks, were impressed Faerun. Should contacts in the area skills: Healing, weather sense, animal by the Calishite sorceress’s prowess ever be necessary, Lawantha has good handling, horse riding. and loyalty to her family. After Thiel friends living in both Almraiven and Saving throws: Paralysis/poison — Ralmun’s proper burial, Lawantha was Volothamp. (Also, it may be noted, she 6; Petrification/polymorph — 9; Rod/ invited to take his place, and she accept- comes from a large family of merchants staff/wand — 10; Breath weapon — 12; ed. that has scattered across Calimshan in Spells — 11. Lawantha has proven herself with pursuit of business; she could probably Spells per level: 7/7/5/5/3/2/1. the group. Tardeth and Marilyn have find a close relative in any major Spells commonly memorized: become closest to her and understand Calishite city.) Animal friendship, animal summoning her best; but the sorceress is sometimes Tethyr was also a place in which I, call lightning, ceremony conjure fire a source of tension for other group Lawantha had traveled; in fact, she had elemental, create water, cure disease, members, particularly the young and met most members of the Company cure critical wounds, cure light somewhat xenophobic druid, Manny. when visiting her late cousin, Thiel wounds, cure serious wounds, creep- There is some feeling that Silendia is a Ralmun. Her explorations in Tethyr ing doom, detect magic, detect snares mercenary foreigner, not at all person- focused especially on the peninsula for- and pits, dispel magic, entangle, fire ally devoted to the cause of Tethyr’s est, where the many varieties of fungi trap, flame blade, good berry, heat welfare. It is true, Lawantha is some- and their related slimes and molds metal, insect plague, invisibility to ani- what distanced by her nationality, but attracted her scholarly interest. The mals, know alignment, moonbeam, she is fiercely loyal to the group. She same interest in fungi frequently brings neutralize poison, plant door, speak recognizes any matter of importance to Lawantha to Brost’s “mushroom coun- with animals, speak with plants, tree, the group — be it Tethyr’s welfare or try,” to the north of the Forest of Tethir. wall of fire, warp wood. anything else — as being, by associa- As a naturalist, Lawantha is most Special abilities: +2 on saves vs. tion, of importance to her, even if she interested in all sorts of fungi and fire and lightning; identify plant, ani- may personally be somewhat disinter- medecinal herbs; she is very knowl- mal, pure water; immune to woodland ested. It is regrettable that, in a typical edgeable in the identification and uses charm; shape change thrice/day. Calishite manner, she usually fails to of both. She also has experience with Magical items and equipment: hide such disinterest. the dogs of Brost that are trained to Staff of the Woodlands +2 (37 charges), Fortunately, most members of the sniff out particular mushrooms. leather armor, six throwing daggers, group have come to understand this hammer, medium war horse (AC 7, MV woman, to recognize her basic benevo-

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18”) hp 12), saddle and tack, saddle- have given it 11 years of his life). He Sixth-Level Thief bags, three water skins, silver sickle, does not have the personal, passionate S:11 I:10 W:14 D:15 C:16 CH:8 bowls, five small boxes with oak, mistle- devotion of Tardeth or Marilyn; nor is toe, holly, etc. he as flippant as Paddy. The druid Home city or country: The Purple The oldest human among the com- believes that chaos in Tethyr would be Hills, Tethyr. panions, Arkaneus also has seniority in as bad as a rigid system of law; there- Languages: Common, Neutral the group second only to that of Tar- fore, his service to the Company of Good, Halfling, Elvish, Gnomish, Goblin, deth. As a full druid of 12th level, he is Eight is in effect service to balance and Dwarf, Orcish, Thieves’ Cant. also one of the most formidable charac- true neutrality in Tethyr’s present, Weapon proficiencies: Broad ters in this group of adventurers. In near-anarchic state. Besides this “ideo- sword (specialization), light crossbow, spite of this, the aged druid takes a sur- logical” reason, Arkaneus feels that the dagger. prisingly low-key role; he sits back qui- Company’s devotion to justice is noble Non-weapon proficiencies/ etly as the fireworks fly between and worthy, and he appreciates the skills: Horse riding, alertness, fishing, Marilyn and Sylvanus, for example, good the Company has done for the rope use. rarely intervening, and then subtly Forest of Tethir (counteracting rampag- Saving throws Paralysis/poison — coaxing the two into a compromise. ing monsters, bandits, etc.). And, 11/7; Petrification/polymorph — 11; Patient Arkaneus takes this approach finally, he feels deep bonds with the Rod/staff/wand — 8; Breath weapon — to all of life. Nature always works itself others in the group as friends. 13; Spells — 9. out, he believes; his role as a druid is to Another close associate of Arkaneus, Thieves’ abilities (leather see that it is allowed to do so. outside the Company, is the half-elf armor/elfin chain): Pick pockets As a druid of name level, Silvermane Tethirmin, arch-druid of Mosstone, 60%/40%, locks 52%/47%, find/remove has three lesser druids as attendants, all who was the human druid’s mentor so traps 50%/45%, move silently 57%/ of them initiates of the First Circle. Two many decades ago. Tethirmin has made 47%, hide 52%/42%, hear noise 25%/ of them, Leisha and Thastrun, are a it clear that Arkaneus could be his suc- 20%, climb walls 77%/57%, read married couple. They do not adventure cessor, but Arkaneus would be hesitant languages 25%/25%. at all; instead, they are devoted to the to become arch-druid, in spite of the Special abilities: +4 on saving care of Cayr Thalwood and the sur- power and prestige it entails. With its throws vs. rod/staff/wand, spells, poi- rounding woods. advantages would come many obliga- son; infravision 60’; detect slopes, move The third attendant might be more tions, and these would be hard to rec- silently. suitably termed an apprentice. This is oncile with continued service in the Magical items and equipment: Manfred Arbustle, who has himself Company of Eight. Broad sword +2 (green dragon slayer), become a member of the Company of Arkaneus’ real wish for the future is five bolts +1, five bolts +2, five bolts Eight. Arkaneus has a great deal of faith to see Manny rise and eventually be +3, elfin chain mail, light crossbow, in and hope for his young apprentice — able to take his mentor’s place as druid, two cases, 15 bolts, 10 silver-tipped probably more than Manny has for allowing Arkaneus to retire — to be full- bolts, four daggers, pony (AC 7, MV himself. But Arkaneus realizes this as time caretaker of Cayr Thalwood, to 12”, hp 7), saddle and tack, saddlebags, well, and believes that Manny will in live as a hermit elsewhere in the Forest tent, bedroll, two weeks’ provisions, fact have to prove to himself what he of Tethir, or perhaps to go and serve the two water skins, spare leather armor, can make of his life. great druid. thieves’ tools. Many human issues — say, politics — Black-haired, bushy-sideburned Pad- receive a sort of ambivalence from Paddy Stoutfellow dy Stoutfellow is the clown of the Com- Arkaneus; or at least he isn’t devoted pany of Eight. Besides being a valuable ARMOR CLASS: 4 fanatically to single points of view member in himself, his irreverent sense MOVE: 12” (except of course the protection of of humor serves a very important func- Hit Points: 44 nature; but even here he is more willing tion in helping the party coexist NO. OF ATTACKS: 1 than most of his profession to tolerate smoothly and putting matters in per- DAMAGE/ATTACK: By weapon type short-term abuse, believing it all balanc- spective. And being annoyed by Paddy’s SPECIAL ATTACKS: Nil es out). He is a cool, rational decision- friendly mockery can take one’s mind SPECIAL DEFENSES: Nil maker, without emotional attachment off more serious worries, a most wel- MAGIC RESISTANCE: See below to many issues. For this reason, Tardeth come break. SIZE: S relies heavily upon him for advice and Paddy likes everyone in the group, ALIGNMENT: Neutral Good wise guidance. but they’re almost always too serious. PSIONIC ABILITY: Nil Arkaneus is quite devoted to the Com- He never misses a chance to point this Sixth-Level Halfling Fighter pany (were he not, he hardly would out teasingly. Tardeth is too busy and

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worried about the welfare of the Com- member. This is not out of devotion to would best suit Tethyr. The Purple Hills pany and Tethyr; Manny is too self- any particular cause, or some vague halflings will probably go along with conscious; Marilyn is obsessed with the ideal of loyalty and honor, but simply whatever emerges, if it promises reestablishment of a kingdom over because the members of the Company greater stability, security, and prosper- Tethyr; Lawantha appears stuffy on are his friends. And, all lighthearted- ity. These three things are Paddy’s long- account of her Calishite manners and ness aside, friends are what Paddy val- term goals as well; as to how to reach mannerisms. Arkaneus is pretty ues most, and he stands by them. them, he’s still undecided. decent, but a little old and wrapped up More than anyone else in the group, Stoutfellow is fond of drinking and in religion. Paddy gets along best with Paddy is here for adventure. He joined games of chance, but rarely to excess. Sylvanus (though this does not spare just over two years ago, hoping that Thieving is his favorite game of chance, the elf any ribbing); they are the two he’d find thrills and excitement, stories but here, too, he is careful. He is not non-humans in the group, and both to share with his grandchildren back in greedy, just thrill-seeking. He would have very different perspectives on all the Purple Hills a few decades down the much prefer to attempt a difficult job the matters with which the humans are line. for an almost worthless item — say, to obsessed. Paddy has never been particularly steal the handkerchief of the Meisarch Though Paddy is very cheerful, light- involved in politics; he is not sure of Amn — over an easy burglary with hearted, and incessantly making sport whether a reunited kingdom, like Mari- great profit. And he is always more of his companions and their worries, he lyn wants, or something more like a than happy to use (and show off) his tal- is an uncompromisingly loyal group confederation, as Moondrop envisions, ents for the party’s benefit.

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