@semiticgod Well, concerning solo LoB, there's a whole thread about it in the Challenge and Playthrough section that I'm pretty sure you know about. I could see you running a mage/thief quite efficiently there. Even without xp bonus, leveling up is not hard because you're soloing, so, going through the game still doesn't take too long (3 or 4 sessions top if you're not doing every quest). You also would break new ground here, because not a single solo no reload run was successul yet, not even close to be honest. That is a ROUGH challenge.
Also, a long time ago, I remember that you were trying to run a 12 characters run (via permanent simulacrum and xp penalty, if I remember correctly). I think you ran into some technical troubles, but maybe the newest version of the games could make that possible. That would be the type of run I would see you do !!
Other than that, maybe you just need a little break from the game, to come back with fresh ideas and renewed motivation.
@semiticgod how about experimenting with different restrictions to see if anything takes your fancy, e.g. melee only, no potions, restricted rests, no pausing, no magic items etc.
@Arctodus: To my knowledge, the 12 character run isn't really feasible. A while back, I figured out how to create a full-level duplicate of a party member using the simulacrum opcode with no side effects, but I still have one basic problem: the clones need to be summoned before every battle, which can make pre-buffing and area transitions rather clunky.
Plus, I wouldn't be able to customize them. Having 6 pairs of twins isn't that much more interesting than 6 individuals. And there are balance issues associated with having two characters wearing their own copy of the Robe of Vecna.
@Grond0: I don't generally go with restrictions much. I prefer to plan my runs based on new tactics and tricks--I figure out how to do something weird, then design a strategy around it and see how far I can push it.
I've toyed with the idea of restrictions before, but restrictions haven't actually changed gameplay much for me. Rather than developing new strategies, all I did was lean more heavily on some backup strategies I was already familiar with.
It felt like playing tennis without a racquet, and choosing a baseball bat instead. Sure, it's more challenging, but it doesn't change the mechanics of the game.
I've already tried a restless run, but I really like running caster-heavy parties, which isn't feasible in restless runs. And for a fighter-heavy party, being unable to rest isn't actually a major restriction, considering you can heal yourself using regeneration... and also remove fatigue from everyone in the party except for Charname simply by kicking out party members and bringing them back in (fatigue gets set to 0 when characters leave the party, even if it's just for a moment).
I've started a new solo LoB run with a gnomish Glyphscribe of Deneir/Mage (which is supposed to be possible, but a bug required EEKeeper to implement it). Clerics of Deneir get SR's animal summoning spells, so basically my gnome just sends out a huge pack of dogs and wolves to murdalize gibberlings and kobolds. She's at 180,000 XP and her summons have 98% of all the kills. I spent half the Nashkel mines eating chips.
It's a good strategy, but it doesn't feel very interesting.
I've considered running a solo Seducer (I have some revisions to the kit to make it more interesting), but it's really, really not suited to solo no-reload play, especially in LoB mode. All of its power comes from the enemy's failed saving throws, which are never guaranteed.
A fathers love, I asked Imoen to toss her 'cloudkill' and Sarevok didn't wait for his bodyguards; a dispel arrow from Dorn, Doom from Tiax and (scroll) Greater Malison from me then he failed his first Polymorph save and its over.
· Imoen stepped out of the party once we get the screen back... apparently Sod wants me to 5 man it... I'll pass thanks!
Bugs; My portrait doesn't have the same name in bg2ee and I was tempted to fix it but my stated rules say no mods are acceptable so I've had to pick another.
@semiticgod it seems odd that you have bonus XP activated for LoB given that you're seeking fresh challenges. How about just playing that on standard settings?
If you're bored with standard summons you could have a go with a shaman. Running that solo in LoB isn't easy, but there are some ways of manipulating the use of their summons that you might find interesting to experiment with.
What about trying a no-kill run - that gives scope for using spells somewhat differently?
I've been slow about pushing on with this run. As I know so little of SoD, play takes rather more concentration than I usually dedicate to my gaming . I was also annoyed after finishing Sarevok to realise I'd left the Cloak of Balduran behind. However, I've made a bit of progress in Siege and will probably continue with that soon (or, more likely, die soon).
In Dragonspear, the saying goes, "scout the territory". The dungeon groups may be strong But really they don't last too long When fireballs bring you glory.
In Dragonspear, the saying goes, "fear not only combat". While you may wish to seek a thrill Knowing well that traps can kill Your run won't last long like that.
@semiticgod how long LoB takes depends how you play it. For most character classes a solo LoB run can be far faster than the sort of comprehensive party run you last documented, while still comfortably exceeding the XP level cap without bonus XP enabled. A caster-heavy party could also make quick progress if that's what you want, although if you want them to hit the XP cap the extra encounters required to do that would clearly take longer in LoB.
True to my prediction in the previous post, I didn't last much longer. My impression is that the traps in SoD are far more of a hazard to solo adventurers than in BG1&2 - probably lots more pain to come from those in the future unless I specifically set out to design a safe route through for a no-reload ...
@semiticgod i had an idea that i never have the time to fully implement in game. According to my idea charname would get a similar teleporting curse like Viekang. In my playthrough my character teleported when he losed consciousness (so mainly by deaths, and on every rest). It was not perfect, i chose randomly an area on every rest, and used console to go there. On character death i had to reload a pre-death save. The method needs some more tinkering, but it was a fun and new experience. Maybe teleporting on kill, or a % chance to teleport on every attack?
Shyffunee killed the Illusionist in the Docks (Tactics), sold all the loot, and then proved Mae'Var's treachery, which included almost getting pwned by fkn Mephits, completely pwning Gayic and Embarl and running up and down all around the Docks. The fight against Mae'Var himself was pretty hard, we hard to retreat a couple of times because something kept Silencing my PC so I couldn't cast spells nor use my innates. We got ambushed by slavers, and we traded one charge of the Wand of Cold (now sitting at 30... lol) and a bunch of minutes for their XP.
Our next objective is the Planar Prison, unless anyone has a, uhm, safer idea.
Here begins the record of Goiwam Wlfwlqlfcpr the Canny
So of course I start by failing not once, but twice to set a surprise for Shank. Even with starting as a Dwarf (+10 set traps) Bounty Hunter (+15 set traps) and pumping 40 points into set traps (for a cumulative 65% snare chance) I failed twice. Gah. And being a Bounty Hunter slows my skill progression a little (+20/level instead of 25) which means I'll be crutching with Safana for an extra level. Then again, thieves level crazy fast so that's maybe just a couple extra quests and I still get double snares per rest. Which of course means I'll be resting like crazy for situations where I have control over the battlefield beforehand. Like with Carbos.
Unfortunately I can't RP log this effectively as he's not a Diviner and I know of no recruitable ones in unmodded BGEE. Blah. I "buy" a healing potion from the Clinic for 37 gold (at least I got all my shopping done) and finish the Baby Bhaalspawn quests with a little difficulty - my short sword broke while exterminating the rats, which means fisticuffs and bowshots. Or I could duck outside and set my regular snare, but I don't think the rats will leave the storehouse. Or I could just beat them to death with this quarterstaff that I started with (at THAC0 22, but they're rats)
Strangely enough, Shank is also dumb enough to try to murder me in public.
Parda still felt it necessary to check out the Priest's Quarters, despite Shank lying dead on the side of the road.
I pawn my rewards from the rats and from Phlydia to replace my sword, then spend a gold to replenish my snares. I'll be doing the standard Level Grinding along the sword coast since I want to get my Traps maxed out and starting on my Disarm before I take on Nashkel. I may have made a fatal mistake in ducking Imoen, but I'll level faster this way (and I'm taking Safana instead of Imoen so that she's prepped for SoD).
Traps are virtually useless on Skeletons (they deal missile damage) and with throwing daggers they match me in APR so I have to engage in Melee. Really glad I have that third potion right now. I collect his skull, his daggers, and a spare short sword. I wish I hadn't burned my traps on that fool since I still need Purdue's short sword. I reach the Beregost border, cross my fingers, and camp.
I can breathe easy now; thief traps are your best friend while camping in the wilderness since they're party-friendly, target every hostile within range, and are party-friendly. Much better to set a couple of these babies before resting than to stack skulls. I set a basic snare where I camped, then set my Special a little further south. With my snares set I go south and try to lure the Gnoll with Purdue's sword northward. The thought occurs to me that I can recruit Kivan as cannon fodder here, but he's not a character I've seriously used before and I kinda want to give him a decent shot this time around.
I finally reach the gnolls and - wouldn't you know it? - I can't pull just one coming from the north side of the high hedge. So of course I pull 'em both. On the plus side, I know where they aren't - ahead of me...
Welp, so much for taking potshots on the way in. I also have to reroute the pull so that I can try to hit all three with the special trap (with just two I could use one trap each - gnolls aren't that tough, they just hit like a truck).
Oh look, there's Purdue's sword. The last gnoll follows me to the other snare trap.
I take my spoils of war to Feldepost's to complete the level. One One Three Three One. I put 15 in Set Snare and 5 into Move Silently, to make these even for after I max Find Traps. I need one more level to max my Snare skill, four to max Find Traps, and eight to max both Stealths - a total level of 15, which I believe should be somewhen around Sahaguin City. Joy. Still, getting double snares per day is worth it. A quick rest restores my snares for Karlat. I put the special snare closer to the door, and the regular one a bit further south. Wisely, as it turns out - Karlat eats 15 damage from the special snare and is still three blocks full. The good news is that Special snares surrender one damage roll in favor of their special effect - the southern snare finishes the job.
I duck back into the Red Sheaf to replenish my traps and deliver Purdue's sword. This gives me Level 3, which means 100% Set Snare. Woo. At level 4 I'll have enough Disarm to handle the Nashkel Mines - you can clear every required trap there with 30% find traps. I set all two of my snares under Silke, then go talk to Garrick to get myself some easy money. I'll grab Garrick when I'm ready to start working the coast - I don't like killing Shoal, even if it's worth more XP that way.
Of course, now my traps are out again. I work my way back to Feldepost's for the night - I still need to save Mellicamp and pick up my Whistling Sword +2 (not looking forward to that fight) as well as Bassilus' holy symbol (another icky fight, but for a completely different reason).
You will probably have forgotten all about my Terror of Tempus run as I have been out of touch with the web. Suffice to say that she beat the ToSc including Durlag's Tower, The Werewolf Island and the Ice Island. She then joined up with Drizzt et al for the Drizzt Saga. Marilith brought the run to a sudden end. I should have gone shopping first and actually used potions etc. Still an enjoyable run.
I then tried a thief run and discovered that I the mod that I made to Mendas in Candlekeep actually made beating him impossible for a thief. I will have to nerf my mod somewhat as I tried beating him 5 times without success. Perhaps I could give Shank better weapons/armour. Of course he could then become too powerful. Trial and error needed.
@Wise_Grimwald Your thief could, you know, just ignore Mendas (e.g., not engage him)- it's not like you need to beat Mendas to beat the game. Run away to fight another day and all that.
Now this next part I have a real problem RP'ing. Problem is that I am on level9 Swashie and want to dual at ten. But I have no thief, the party is big enough as it is to get XP (usually play with two/three), and I need to complete Durlags. But there is no way I can justify sodding off to Durlags at this point in the narrative. Also did a very naughty metagame thing, went to BG, opened every door I could find knowing I'll be coming back with no thief to actually do quests. So for the sake of the narrative, I'm going to have to employ "artistic licence" and just remember that all of the city quests were done after Durlags except for the Hall of Wonders.
The Partridge Family
Having flooded the Cloakwood mines (and rescued the slaves, very important, I am a hero) we headed back to Beregost. Needed to identify stuff, sell stuff, chill for a while and discuss our next move. We were feeling pretty damn pleased with our exploits, pretty rich as well. Drinks on the house for everybody. Even Vicky relaxed enough not to threaten anybody who looked her way with unimaginable tortures, though the young bard she found hanging around outside the Burning Wizard was never going to be the same again. Kivan was still fretting about Tazok but Branwyn was very succesful keeping him occupied, lets face it, there's a lot of Branwyn to keep any man occupied. Edwin suggested that I explore all the possibilities offered by my belt in the interest of research. He had a point, though I put my foot down at a straightfoward swap, not into women but men, hmmm, (suffice to say it was interesting.....and more complicated).
So, our next move, onto Baldurs Gate and investigate this "Iron Throne". Decided that it was time to "take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing, end them?" Viconia's Bard was surprisingly good!!
So up north once again, killed some more Ankhegs, as you do, was asked to sort out some fishing rights dispute, sided with the priestess because "Umberlee", enough said. Crossed the bridge, was approached by customs, said we had nothing to declare and yes we had packed our backpacks ourselves. Was taken to a small room and asked to wait. Upshot, head of the local law enforcement wanted us to work for them undercover, very cloak and dagger. Met a psycho elf with a wolf fetish, pretty but what a bitch, Kivan was reduced to tears, (can't blame him even V and E thought she was harsh). Branwyn took her apart...slowly.
Finally, Baldurs Gate. And what's the first thing we see? Bloody Elminster shuffling around glad handing the tourists. Got the usual enigmatic "one with your heritage" what heritage? Tell me you senile old fool, oh no, that would be too helpful, you're far too busy cadging coppers.
Repaired to the Elfsong, more wine, met a gnome, took a "commission", and called in on the local thieves in spite of disapproval from the more law abiding members of the group. The thing is K and B, we're only just this side of being hung for all sorts ourselves. A good prosecuter would surely be able to get a conviction for disrupting commerce, unlawful killing (have you forgotten Dynaheir so soon?), poaching, drunkeness, enviromental damage, the list goes on and on. And I'm not exactly the person who walks past a locked door and just thinks "oh, private property, must respect that". I reckon I'd be down about 15 hands had I lived where law enforcement was a little more abrupt (itty bitty stumps at my shoulders by now).
So that night we hit the town, laughable security at the museum, even worse at one house where walking in armed to the teeth I was hired as a cleaner. That must be one hell of a cockroach problem they have. We crossed swords with a dodgy looking couple, they approached we attacked, paranoia is well set in. Just as well, they were carrying a couple of very valuable items which could have caused us no end of grief. Another pair of BOS and a fantastic short bow I can actually use, and five potions of poison. That last bit was very odd.
The next day got asked to retrieve a dead body from the sewers, was asked to retrieve another dead body from a temple, a skull from a pub, (have they never heard of cemetaries) asked to deal with shenanigans at a merchants guild, a cure for a curse for a baby, to kill a basilisk, a peeping tom, a blackmailer, a mage, deliver an amulet, retrieve a ring, a cloak, a helmet, a book. This city is a mess.
So by unanimous vote, we decided to take a holiday up the coast as there's no way we are going to go down in the sewers in midsummer when it hasn't rained for a while. All these ongoing troubles can on go for a bit longer. TBH, just couldn't get the enthusiasm up, it's August, summer holiday time, need to work on our tans (we can find a dank cave for Vicky). Come back refreshed and willing.
So went up to Ulgoth's Beard, and lo and behold, another load of people asking us to do stuff. But one interesting attraction, guided tours of Durlags Tower. Plus of course a couple of people asking us to fetch something from Durlags. The dagger, well if we find it fair enough. But the mother asking us to look for her son, that struck a chord, we'd seen the horrors of the first level and we'd come across so many grieving parents and families on our travels. So we paid our money and decided to take the tour.
@Wise_Grimwald Your thief could, you know, just ignore Mendas (e.g., not engage him)- it's not like you need to beat Mendas to beat the game. Run away to fight another day and all that.
I was aware of that, but I am wanting it to be possible to beat them with any character. If I get beaten three times out of four that's fine with me, but I wasn't getting anywhere near beating him. All I had done was give him assassins armour plus a short sword +1 and I attacked him with haste active. Despite having a dex of 19, ranged weapons weren't working. Perhaps leading him outside is the answer.
Five Go Mad At Durlags Tower or The Partridge Family Do Durlag
It was very refreshing riding a wagon for once rather than slogging on foot as we usually do, spirits were high. Did get me to thinking why we have never used horses when we see quite a few of them around, (graphics/coding/animal rights?) But the mood changed as the Tower loomed up before us. Subdued, the tour group made it's way through the entrance and the patter of the salesman couldn't compensate for the feeling of doom that surrounded us.
Now we had visited previously, cleared the first few levels, so stood around smirking at the others with that insufferable smugness that always occurs when only some are "in the know". I don't know why it happened, perhaps it was the number of people milling around that disturbed the evil lurking in the Tower, but then the Demon Knight appeared and issued his challenge. Followed by a fireball that obliterated the previously happy tourists.
So left on our own, what to do? Kivan and Branwyn wanted to smite the evil, predictable. Viconia was happy as long as she was out of the accursed sun, so was all for staying. Edwin recognised power when he saw it and of course wanted more. I wanted to try and rescue the son, sentimental I know. So on we went, back to the Dwarven Guards, clutching our bottle of wine as offering (not a particually good vintage, they are ghosts after all).
And all hell broke loose.
It was one hell of a fight, started by Edwin throwing whatever he could at the area webs/grease to slow the guards down, that worked on one so was able to safely shoot him (it) from a distance. Sent the Skellies after the "Love" guard as they are a mage, they managed. The last two were the problem, fireballs and skull traps took down one from out of sight. Trouble was that once they moved into our area, the only thing Edwin could do was go invisible, otherwise it's one perhaps two hits and he's dead. And the bugger kept on going invisible, so had to retreat myself. That left it up to B/V and Kivan and the few remaining skellies. Well they won through, but in the process Branwyn got chunked.
(Now at this point, going to have to break the reload rule, so if this thread needs to be moved to playthrough, feel free)
So reload, and this time the fight went very well except that Edwin got killed because he stayed and fought rather than retreat and stay safe. Actually it went a little too well, I did think at the time that we had missed something, lost count along the way. So retreated to a temple, bought Edwin back, (promised him all sorts as compensation) and then came back to head down to the next level. So venture down through the weird tomb/staircase thing, and guess who's there to greet us? Nasty guard number four, (Avarice?) No choice in that confined space but everybody to thump him, got a haste off and miraculously everybody survived, it was a close call for Kivan and Viconia, (the temple will have a gold roof before we are finished I'm beginning to think.)
This level is trapped, I mean trapped like nobody's business. Skipped around disarming them, then webs, cloudkill, fireballs work exceptionally well I'll have you know. And an important discovery, duh moment from me. If you buy all the dispelling arrows you can, and use them sparingly, the dopplegangers are completely f*cked (excuse the language but it really was something I never do because always paranoid about running out for the last Sarevok battle). Decided that I would take on the Kiel guards rather than skip them eventhough I only ever sell the stuff. Another hard fight, a 100 charge summoning wand is such a useful gadget.
So ever downwards. We run past the fireballs and found ourselves in a garden, awww nice, awww, ghasts, not so nice, awww invisible, annoying, ghost, child, nobody knows what, not very nice at all. Summons all the way, invisible backstabbers are so not my favourite thing, (and SCS uses so many, I think they got the idea from here). Platforms with skeleton archers, one fireball on each platform, poof, no more archers, smirk, giggle. And lots of lovely arrows to pick up (still can't identify the +2 though, which doesn't make any kind of sense as detonation/dispelling arows have to be rarer don't they?).
Then four rooms representing the elements, fire/cold/poison easy. Air memphit? How hard does that hit? It's made of air, illogical. Killed two wyvens, chickened out from the third as the first two nearly did for us. Chased up the corridor, out into the "garden", didn't think it would get through the door, scattered, thankfully I had cleared all the traps.
And so then the chess board. My game won't automatically transfer you so have to use console, thank the Gods. So have time to fully buff and prepare. Have learnt to transfer invisible to get the first shots in. Edwin web, everybody else hurling oils of FB and explosion potions into the incoming hoard. Arrows of detonation into those who get webbed or hold back. Viconia and Branwyn my only melee fighters, two always get through. Edwin cloudkill, me because no reload, after the first couple of shots scarper. Kivan left to shoot what he can (and blow himself up if you are not careful with the arrows, oops). Managed to paralyse one of the melee fighters which allowed V and B to survive, then just the king. I took over the shooting, arrows of biting, Edwin fireballs, check mate. Strength potions to carry all the spoils with Kivan down. Speak to Durlag. Ask the nice lady to transport us out for our regular trip to the temple.
@Wise_Grimwald Your thief could, you know, just ignore Mendas (e.g., not engage him)- it's not like you need to beat Mendas to beat the game. Run away to fight another day and all that.
I was aware of that, but I am wanting it to be possible to beat them with any character. If I get beaten three times out of four that's fine with me, but I wasn't getting anywhere near beating him. All I had done was give him assassins armour plus a short sword +1 and I attacked him with haste active. Despite having a dex of 19, ranged weapons weren't working. Perhaps leading him outside is the answer.
@Wise_Grimwald - At level 1, your biggest problem is Thac0. I think your best bet is to hide in the shadows in the shade outside, even if your hiding is terrible. Just keep trying, and when you finally succeed, go in and backstab the assassin dead. If I remember right, attacking from the shadows grants +4 Thac0 which might make all the difference. I know the game says "leaving shadows" when going through doorways, but if you attack within a round (6 seconds) you can still get the backstab off. I've done this many times actually with my thieves.
The Partridge Family and Their Magical Mystery Tour of Durlags Tower.
(have to keep going, other wise lose momentum)
At the temple we sat and licked our wounds and waited for Kivan to "come back". I asked him why he hadn't gone off to find Deheiriananana, he said it was to keep his promise to avenge her (also might have something to do with Branwyn methinks as their reunion was very touching...in all sorts of innappropriate places). So time for a motivational speech to the troops. "Awww, come on guys, you can't let me down , purleeese, pretty please, think of the gold, you don't want to see me angry, I'll cry, aww go on, you know you want to, just because you hate me, it's not fair, I always do what you want to do, it's my turn to choose, nobody cares about what I feel, none of you understand me, I hate you, I'm going to run away then you'll be sorry, you're all just so mean to me" After 2 hours of this they gave in.
So back to Durlags it was, have to say, quite a feeling of accomplishment running through the untrapped and cleared out (except for a few ghasts/spiders) rooms down to the lower levels. Buoyed up we took down the third wyvern and released the statues. Whereupon they turned on each other, jeez, you'd think they'd learn. Across the chess board and then to have a proper talk with the ghost.
The answer was to learn about what had happened here. A tragedy in anybody's reckoning. Having to kill dopplegangers who looked like those he loved whilst knowing they were all already dead. It must have been tempting to let them live, when they still held the memories, the personalities of those they had killed? It begs the question, would you kill the doppleganger when it could at least pretend to be your child when the child was already dead? No wonder he had been driven mad, and such guilt never knowing if you did the right thing, left with nothing when there might have been a way to have something however wrong?
We cleared the caves, we talked to the monster who had once been an ally. He warned us of the evil that we could face that had damned him to this. We gave him the release he desired and wondered how much killing there was still to do.
We answered the questions, we understood but did that matter after all this time? Finally we returned to Durlag and he told us there was a greater evil who had moved into the Tower, the Demon Knight we had encountered at the entrance. He gave us the choice, leave or defeat it.
We met the woman who had been part of the group who we had seen traces of, the group with Dalton, the son of the woman at Ulgoth's Beard. But now he was caught by the Demon Knight. After all the death, all the sorrow of the Tower, we had to at least try and save something. Or rather, me, Kivan, Branwyn thought so, Viconia was more inclined to take the view that if he survived on his own it would be a good test, make him strong, she's not very maternal at all. Edwin, after checking out the woman, just wanted to display his spell slinging and was dismissive about any threat posed. So unanimously (well as close as it was ever going to get with this group) we headed through the door to face the Demon Knight.
OT And the last little fight just before this point, I kid you not, I achieved level 10 Swashie. So dualed, not going to waste that amount of XP, so hit the Demon Knight, level 1 fighter. Going to be relying on the team here rather a lot. 2 points long bow, 2 points Bastard sword (foebane is the goal) and we had a spare FMP.
The fight went OK, done it far more efficiently in the past though. I am a lot less parsimonious with potions nowadays, don't hoard them as much. Arrows of dispelling, works everytime. Skellies to soak up attention, missile weapons and magic from distance. Kivan got held, but the DK came up the other steps, we ran away, we played tag for a while. I know there is a way where you use the mirror, did that once years ago by mistake, or am I imagining it? I'm sure I ended up fighting clones or something.
Rescued Dalton (yay, us being heroic again) and sent him home. We left Durlags Tower, richer, more experienced and somewhat reflective.
As an aside. I wish I knew who wrote Durlags Tower. Everytime, although I kind of dread bothering with it, I end up getting caught up in the atmosphere. I still read all the stone head bit, (we came from the west ect.) often all the books and love the lore. It's an outstanding dungeon and piece of RPG IMO.
@Wise_Grimwald Your thief could, you know, just ignore Mendas (e.g., not engage him)- it's not like you need to beat Mendas to beat the game. Run away to fight another day and all that.
I was aware of that, but I am wanting it to be possible to beat them with any character. If I get beaten three times out of four that's fine with me, but I wasn't getting anywhere near beating him. All I had done was give him assassins armour plus a short sword +1 and I attacked him with haste active. Despite having a dex of 19, ranged weapons weren't working. Perhaps leading him outside is the answer.
@Wise_Grimwald - At level 1, your biggest problem is Thac0. I think your best bet is to hide in the shadows in the shade outside, even if your hiding is terrible. Just keep trying, and when you finally succeed, go in and backstab the assassin dead. If I remember right, attacking from the shadows grants +4 Thac0 which might make all the difference. I know the game says "leaving shadows" when going through doorways, but if you attack within a round (6 seconds) you can still get the backstab off. I've done this many times actually with my thieves.
I actually tried this before reading your post. I was actually trying to lure him outside, but when Mendas wouldn't follow my thief outside like Shank and Carbos would, I used the opportunity to hide again. I had also got Canderous to cast bless and protection from evil. They wore off fairly quickly but did give some additional advantage. Shank actually got killed by the watchers. Therefore for him, running away was the best option.
I did have to use a healing potion against Mendas, but I now realise that better tactics were sufficient so won't make any changes to my set up. Single class thieves won't be as successful as a fighter/thief was, but will be successful enough.
The first thief that I was testing was an adventurer. No backstab multiplier! The one that succeeded was, not surprisingly, an assassin.
Weidu Log:
// Log of Currently Installed WeiDU Mods // The top of the file is the 'oldest' mod // ~TP2_File~ #language_number #component_number // [Subcomponent Name -> ] Component Name [ : Version] ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Slime Quest: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #1 // Beregost Family Quest: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #2 // Installing the Babysitting Quest, including the Carnival Encounter...: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #3 // Nashkel Monster Quest: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #4 // Fallen Paladin Quest: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #5 // Undying Love Quest: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #6 // Orcish Lover Encounter: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #7 // Unexpected Help Quest: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #8 // "Many Little Paws": v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #9 // Drunk near Beregost Temple: v14 ~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #10 // A Warm Place for Noober: v14 ~DRIZZTSAGA/DRIZZTSAGA.TP2~ #0 #0 // The Drizzt Saga for BGEE/Tutu/BGT -> Default version: areas connected by travel triggers: v3.00 ~DRIZZTSAGA/DRIZZTSAGA.TP2~ #0 #2 // Raise the XP cap: v3.00 ~DRIZZTSAGA/DRIZZTSAGA.TP2~ #0 #3 // Delayed start: Drizzt joins after Durlag's Tower: v3.00 ~RECOLOREDBUTTONS/SETUP-RECOLOREDBUTTONS.TP2~ #0 #1 // Recolored character's toolbar buttons (BG:EE) -> Golden color scheme: v4.1 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #0 // Ice Island Level Two Restoration: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #1 // The Mysterious Vial: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #4 // Finishable Kagain Caravan Quest: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #6 // Kivan and Tazok: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #7 // Branwen and Tranzig: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #10 // Place Entar Silvershield in His Home: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #11 // Scar and the Sashenstar's Daughter: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #12 // Quoningar, the Cleric: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #13 // Shilo Chen and the Ogre-Magi: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #14 // Edie, the Merchant League Applicant: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #16 // Creature Corrections: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #17 // Creature Restorations: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #18 // Creature Name Restorations: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #19 // Minor Dialogue Restorations: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #21 // Store, Tavern and Inn Fixes and Restorations: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #22 // Item Corrections and Restorations: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #28 // Prism and the Emeralds Tweak: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #29 // Duke Eltan in the Harbor Master's Building: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #30 // Nim Furlwing Encounter: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #32 // Svlast, the Fallen Paladin Encounter: v14.0 ~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #33 // Mal-Kalen, the Ulcaster Ghost: v14.0 ~BYMULTIPORT/BYMULTIPORT.TP2~ #0 #0 // Multi-Portrait Mod: 1.5 ~SETUP-DARKHORIZONSBGEE.TP2~ #0 #0 // "Dark Horizons" Mod for Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition: BG:EE v213 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #40 // Change Viconia's Skin Color to Dark Blue: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #50 // Avatar Morphing Script: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #60 // Weapon Animation Tweaks: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #110 // Icon Improvements: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #130 // Force All Dialogue to Pause Game: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #140 // Fix Boo's Squeak: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #180 // Unique Containers -> Fixes only: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #191 // Use Character Colors Instead of Item Colors -> For non-magical shields and helmets: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1036 // Make Cloakwood Areas Available Before Completing the Bandit Camp -> All of Cloakwood Except the Mines: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1070 // Improved Multi-Player Kick-out Dialogues: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1080 // Add Bags of Holding: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1090 // Exotic Item Pack: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1100 // Reveal City Maps When Entering Area: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1120 // Stores Sell Higher Stacks of Items: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1250 // Move NPCs from Baldur's Gate: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2040 // Universal Clubs: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2060 // Weapon Styles for All: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2151 // Wear Multiple Protection Items -> No Restrictions: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2200 // Multi-Class Grandmastery (Weimer): Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2211 // Change Grandmastery Bonuses -> BG2 Grandmastery Rules: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2352 // Alter Multiclass Restrictions -> Install both of the above options: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2360 // Remove Racial Restrictions for Single Classes: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2371 // Alter Dual-class Restrictions -> Allow non-humans to dual-class: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2380 // Remove Racial Restrictions for Kits: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2420 // Loosen Equipment Restrictions for Cleric Multi-Classes: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2440 // Everyone Gets Bonus APR from Specialization: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2999 // Max HP at Level One: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3000 // Higher HP on Level Up -> Maximum: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3010 // Maximum HP for NPCs (the bigg) -> For All Creatures in Game: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3031 // Easy Spell Learning -> 100% Learn Spells and No Maximum Cap: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3040 // Make Bags of Holding Bottomless: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3050 // Remove fatigue from restoration spells: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3080 // Increase Ammo Stack Size -> Unlimited Ammo Stacking: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3090 // Increase Gem and Jewelry Stacking -> Unlimited Gem and Jewelry Stacking: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3100 // Increase Potion Stacking -> Unlimited Potion Stacking: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3110 // Increase Scroll Stacking -> Unlimited Scroll Stacking: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3121 // Happy Patch (Party NPCs do not complain about reputation) -> NPCs Can Be Angry About Reputation but Never Leave (Salk): Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3125 // Neutral Characters Make Happy Comments at Mid-Range Reputation: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3190 // Rest Anywhere (Japheth): Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3205 // Stores Purchase All Item Types: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3220 // Sensible Entrance Points: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3230 // Taerom Makes Additional Ankheg Armor (Icendoan/grogerson): Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4000 // Adjust Evil joinable NPC reaction rolls: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4020 // ToB-Style NPCs: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4031 // Consistent Stats: Edwin -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4041 // Consistent Stats: Jaheira -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4061 // Consistent Stats: Minsc -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4071 // Consistent Stats: Viconia -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5 ~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4090 // Make Montaron an Assassin (Andyr): Beta 5 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #5 // Bjornin's Desire, by jastey (adult content): v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #13 // A Lonely Dryad, by Kulyok (adult content): v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #14 // Edwin's Softer Side, by Kulyok: v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #24 // A Night with Lais in Imnesvale, by Kulyok: v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #30 // Rebecca the Gypsy, by Kulyok: v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #41 // Isabelle's Fears, by gertjanvh (adult content): v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #45 // Rehearsal with Chandra, by Western Paladin: v11 // Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #52 // Minsc. Takes. A Bath, by Thimblerig: v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #5 // Bjornin's Desire, by jastey (adult content): v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #13 // A Lonely Dryad, by Kulyok (adult content): v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #14 // Edwin's Softer Side, by Kulyok: v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #24 // A Night with Lais in Imnesvale, by Kulyok: v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #30 // Rebecca the Gypsy, by Kulyok: v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #41 // Isabelle's Fears, by gertjanvh (adult content): v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #45 // Rehearsal with Chandra, by Western Paladin: v11 ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #52 // Minsc. Takes. A Bath, by Thimblerig: v11 ~CORANBGFRIEND/CORANBGFRIEND.TP2~ #0 #0 // Coran's Extended BG Friendship Talks: v4 ~XANBG1FRIEND/SETUP-XANBG1FRIEND.TP2~ #0 #0 // Xan's friendship path for BG1: v9bgee ~SETUP-WMART.TP2~ #0 #0 // Deidre and Joluv in BG:EE ~S3DISCLUBS/S3DISCLUBS.TP2~ #0 #0 // Distinguisable Clubs: V1.1 ~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #30 // Improved Specialist Mage Descriptions: v4 ~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #31 // Replace Berserker Kit with Battlerager for Dwarves: v4 ~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #900 // Add Red Wizard to Edwin's Kit Description: v4 ~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #1400 // Give Imoen Adventurer Kit: v4 ~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #2300 // Change Minsc's Title to Rashemaar Ranger: v4 ~SETUP-BGEEAR.TP2~ #0 #0 // TeamBG's Armors for BG:EE, BGT and TuTu Version 1.05 ~SETUP-BG2EEW.TP2~ #0 #0 // TeamBG's Weapons Pack for BG2:EE Version 1.01 ~WANDCASE/WANDCASE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Wand Case: v1.3 ~SETUP-VYND.TP2~ #0 #0 // Vynd for BGTutu, BGT and BG:EE ~GARRICK_FLIRT/SETUP-GARRICK_FLIRT.TP2~ #0 #0 // Garrick's Infatuation: b20140925 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #102 // Choose a class for Imoen -> Make Imoen a multiclass mage/thief: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #121 // Choose a class for Jaheira -> Make Jaheira a druid: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #141 // Choose a class for Khalid -> Make Khalid a ranger/cleric: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #161 // Choose a class for Minsc -> Make Minsc a fighter: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #181 // Choose a class for Dynaheir -> Make Dynaheir a sorcerer: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #221 // Choose a class for Coran -> Make Coran a thief: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #242 // Choose a class for Branwen -> Make Branwen a multiclass fighter/cleric: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #302 // Choose a class for Xzar -> Make Xzar a necromancer/cleric: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #321 // Choose a class for Montaron -> Make Montaron a thief: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #464 // Choose a class for Alora -> Make Alora a cleric/thief: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #483 // Choose a class for Xan -> Make Xan a fighter/mage: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #583 // Choose a class for Viconia -> Make Viconia a cleric/thief: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #621 // Choose a class for Neera -> Make Neera a sorcerer: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #2000 // NPC kit choices: v2.6.6 ~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #3000 // multiclass kit choice: v2.6.6 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #11 // Install new spells -> Only add spells if not present from other mods: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #100 // Cleric Remix: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #103 // Install Silverstar of Selune Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #106 // Install Nightcloak of Shar Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #107 // Install Holy Strategist of the Red Knight Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #109 // Install Battleguard of Tempus Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #115 // Install Firewalker of Kossuth Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #118 // Install Authlim of Iyachtu Xvim Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #124 // Install Heartwarder of Sune Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #127 // Install Feywarden of Corellon Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #130 // Install Strifeleader of Cyric Cleric Kit: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #600 // Install Battleguard of Tempus Kit for Branwen: v8 ~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #610 // Install Nightcloak of Shar Kit for Viconia: v8 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Amount of -ahem- details and BG-style vs. description text!: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #1 // Bardolan's Briefing, by berelinde: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #2 // Scar's Spare Time, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #3 // Kim's Preoccupation, by jastey (WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #4 // Extension of Bjornin Encounter (Personal Wound Treatment), by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #5 // No Starch in the Maypole: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #6 // Duke Eltan's Spare Minute, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #7 // Husam's Personal Preparation, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #8 // Laurel's Post-Hunting, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #9 // Bartus' Seduction, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #10 // Lina's Massage, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #11 // First Night with Quentin, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #12 // Chatting Niklos Up, by Kulyok (mature content. WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #13 // Slythe and Krystin, by Kulyok (mature content. WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #14 // No Regrets: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #15 // Purchased Love, by Thimblerig: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #16 // Hull: Heavy Duty, by Lava: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #17 // Late Night with Jaheira, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #18 // Sil's Blessing, by Lava: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #19 // Melicamp: The Poultry Boy, by Lava: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #20 // Reading with Rinnie, by Western Paladin: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #21 // Molly the Husband-Grabber, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #22 // The Mourning of Centeol, the Spider Lady, by Lava: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #23 // The Essential End, by Lava: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #24 // The Harvestmen Lair, by Lava (mature content): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #25 // The Great Zudini, by Kulyok (mature content): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #26 // The Messenger, by Thimblerig: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #27 // Ender Sai, the Hero's Reward, by Thimblerig (WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #28 // The Novelists, by Thimblerig: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #29 // The Honest Lies of Two Riversides, By Lava: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #30 // Necromancer's Trouble, by jastey (WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #31 // Dinner with Thalantyr, by jastey: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #32 // Girdle of Gender Reactions, by Thimblerig, Kulyok, Domi, Lava, Lastknightleft, Twani, Jastey, Daisy Ninja Girl: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #33 // The Surgeon's Dream, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #34 // All That Left Was, by Lava and Thimblerig: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #35 // A Childhood Friend, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #36 // Arlene the Working Girl, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #37 // Della May from Thay, by Kulyok: v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #38 // A Dirty Guard in Candlekeep, by Kulyok (mature content. WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #39 // Phoenix Flame, by Kulyok (mature content): v1.6 ~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #40 // Mikala the Monk, by Twani: v1.6 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #0 // The BG1 NPC Project: Required Modifications: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #1 // The BG1 NPC Project: Banters, Quests, and Interjections: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #9 // The BG1 NPC Project: Ajantis Romance Core (teen content): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #10 // The BG1 NPC Project: Branwen's Romance Core (teen content): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #11 // The BG1 NPC Project: Coran's Romance Core (adult content): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #12 // The BG1 NPC Project: Dynaheir's Romance Core (teen content): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #13 // The BG1 NPC Project: Shar-Teel Relationship Core (adult content): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #14 // The BG1 NPC Project: Xan's Romance Core (teen content): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #15 // The BG1 NPC Project: Female Romance Challenges, Ajantis vs Xan vs Coran: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #18 // The BG1 NPC Project: Alora's Starting Location -> Alora Starts in Gullykin: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #20 // The BG1 NPC Project: Eldoth's Starting Location -> Eldoth Starts on the Coast Way: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #22 // The BG1 NPC Project: Quayle's Starting Location -> Quayle Starts at the Nashkel Carnival: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #24 // The BG1 NPC Project: Tiax's Starting Location -> Tiax Starts in Beregost: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #30 // The BG1 NPC Project: Cloakwood areas availability in Chapter One -> Open four Cloakwood areas (everything but the Mines): v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #32 // The BG1 NPC Project: Sarevok's Diary Adjustments -> Sarevok's Diary Date Changes only: v22.8 ~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #200 // The BG1 NPC Project: Player-Initiated Dialogues: v22.8 ~DELAINY/SETUP-DELAINY.TP2~ #0 #1 // Delainy/Durlyle Same-Sex Romance Options -> Always spawn Durlyle.: v0.91 ~DELAINY/SETUP-DELAINY.TP2~ #0 #3 // Dialogue Fixes: v0.91 ~K9SHARTEELNPC/SETUP-K9SHARTEELNPC.TP2~ #0 #0 // Install Shar-Teel NPC Mod: v1.2 ~NORACERESTRICTIONS/SETUP-NORACERESTRICTIONS.TP2~ #0 #0 // BCaesar's No Race Restrictions Mod: Version1.01 ~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Sirene NPC for Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition ~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #1 // Sirene NPC for Baldur's Gate: Siege of Dragonspear ~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #3 // Choose an alternate class for Sirene? -> Cavalier ~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #7 // Alternate Portrait (BG2 style) by Isandir ~SOA/SETUP-SOA.TP2~ #0 #0 // The Stone of Askavar for TotSC/Tutu/BGT/BGEE -> Default version: areas connected by travel triggers: 2.0 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #0 // Copy all portraits for use by player characters: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #1 // Replace all NPC portraits (AMOK): v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #4 // Alternate Branwen portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #7 // Alternate Coran Portrait -> Alternate by Melisah: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #10 // Alternate Dynaheir Portrait -> Alternate #3 by Amok: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #13 // Alternate Faldorn Portrait: by XVIII: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #19 // Alternate Kivan Portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #23 // Alternate Safana Portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2 ~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #27 // Alternate Viconia Portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #0 // Alternate Aerie Portrait by sporeboy!: v3 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #1 // Alternate Imoen Portrait by sporeboy!: v3 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #2 // Alternate Jaheira Portrait by sporeboy!: v3 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #3 // Alternate Mazzy Portrait by sporeboy!: v3 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #4 // Alternate Nalia Portrait by sporeboy!: v3 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #6 // Alternate Viconia Portrait by sporeboy!: v3 ~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #7 // Install new portraits to the 'portraits' directory: v3 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #0 // Copy all portraits for use by player characters: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #1 // Install new portrait for Aerie: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #2 // Install new portrait for Anomen: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #3 // Install new portrait for Cernd: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #4 // Install new portrait for Edwin: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #5 // Install new portrait for Imoen: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #6 // Install new portrait for Jaheira: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #7 // Install new portrait for Jan: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #8 // Install new portrait for Keldorn: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #9 // Install new portrait for Korgan: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #10 // Install new portrait for Mazzy: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #11 // Install new portrait for Minsc: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #12 // Install new portrait for Nalia: v2 ~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #13 // Install new portrait for Viconia: v2 ~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #0 // Alternate Aerie Portrait by JPS: v3 ~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #1 // Alternate Imoen Portrait by JPS: v3 ~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #3 // Alternate Jaheira Portrait - Option 2 by JPS: v3 ~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #4 // Alternate Nalia Portrait by JPS: v3 ~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #5 // Alternate Viconia Portrait by JPS: v3 ~SETUP-BGII-SUBRACE.TP2~ #0 #1 // GUI changes for subrace mod ~SETUP-BGII-SUBRACE.TP2~ #0 #2 // Alternate NPC subraces ~SETUP-BGII-SUBRACE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Subrace mini-mod for BGII v1.0
My thief is a chotic good drow assassin called Dridersdoom. Her only memory prior to Candlekeep is of her mother telling her to flee as she fought off some driders. As a result Dridersdoom has an intense hatred of driders. After reading about the drow in Candlekeep Dridersdoom realised that her mother must have been a rogue drow to have sacrificed her own life for her. However, in the end it was the rising sun that caused the driders to call ofrf the chase. All this she managed to accurately deduce from the Candlekeep writings. She has Str 18, Dex 19, Con 17, Int 20, Wis 10, Cha 10. The intention is to dual to mage at level 7.
She has beaten all the bad guys in Candlekeep and had a not-so-unusual escapade for a drow with a guard in the inn. Firebead gave her 300gp and she acquired the 1000gp gem too. The armour that Mendas was wearing gives some thieving bonuses as well as being +3 leather. The sub-race mod gives her some advantages and disadvantages:
DROW: Drow, also known as dark elves, are the subterranean cousins of high elves. Their black skin and pale hair are a curse for their allegiance with the spider goddess, Lolth.
Drow societies are usually ruled by cruel clerics of Lolth and their noble houses.
Dark elves are known for their arrogance, cruelty, and penchant for civil war.
- ADVANTAGES: +1 to Intelligence, +1 to Charisma, Magic Resistance of 50% and +2% every level thereafter to a maximum of 80%, +2 to all Spell Saves and Faerie Fire 3/Day.
- DISADVANTAGES: -20% experience modifier, and -1 to THAC0 and saving throws when outside during the day. The sun blindness should not be applied during the night or inside, but it does. It is one of a number of bugs. Sadly the sub-race is not shown on the record sheet and some of the gui changes don't work.
After we were ambushed I returned to where Gorion was killed. On his body were unsurprisingly a mage's robe and a belt that protects from cold. Also a knife. He should have told me that he didn't have a good one. I'd have given him the one that I found on Shank's body. There was also a sword that looks suspiciously like the one that mother was wielding when she was killed. How Gorion acquired it I have no idea. perhaps it was still there when he found me. I felt irresistably drawn to pick it up. Once I did so, it was almost as if we became one. I also felt mothers' presence there which was comforting.
At the Friendly Arms Inn I easily killed Tarnesh and some hobgoblins. Joia rewarded me for the return of her ring with an increase in reputation. I was given some potions of antidote aganst poison by Landrin on the understanding that I would clear some spiders from his home in Beregost.
I spent a VERY pleasureable night with Quentin before heading northwards the next day.
I helped a widow by disposing of her undead husband and then helped Tenya against some evil fishermen. As a result I reached level 3.
In Beregost I calmed down Marl, took a tome to Firebead and killed the spiders. I didn't need the potions.
EDIT
I then learnt that there were problems in Nashkel and on the way there killed a couple of ogrillon and several hobgoblins. I found some useful boots on one of them.
I also met Left and then left.
After arriving at the carnival I gained the ability to heal.
In Nashkel I talked to Oublek who considers me to be fine and honest. Clearly he knows nothing of what I have been up to, breaking into chests and tealing the contest and the like!
I also talked to Noober, and helped a couple of ghosts to be re-united.
ussnorway said: My portrait doesn't have the same name in bg2ee and I was tempted to fix it but my stated rules say no mods are acceptable so I've had to pick another.
I wouldn't have called changing a portrait name a mod.
Here resumes the record of Goiwam Wlfwlqlfcpr the Canny
Before I even leave Feldepost's, I set some surprises for when Chapter Two comes along. I'm totally going to forget those are there and find it hilarious when what'sisname dies almost instantly after picking a fight (traps don't expire).
I strike for the south to pick up the Worn Whispers (very quicky going off the road since I've died to the Ogrillons before and don't want to burn my traps quite yet). Unfortunately I still get too close for comfort to the ogrillons, so I set my special snare on the other side of Floodhaus. To my consternation, the Ogrillons catch up before my aura clears, which wastes my standard snare, so only one of them gets killed by a trap. I use an AI exploit unique to the Enhanced Editions (hostiles will move to where you're going to instead of tracking your current location if they're not in range to attack you) to keep the Ogrillon busy while I kite it. I wasn't planning on delivering Roe's message, but the ring is nice and I need my traps back anyway.
I dropped 750g on ten arrows of biting; I really hate buying these since the coastline is a really good source of them, but I'm going to need them very soon. At this point I get the brilliant idea to try to take down the spiders in Landrin's house. This is a bad idea for a couple reasons - they're poisonous (which means Melee is BAD) and I don't have a lot of inventory space right now. Well, this is a dilly of a pickle. The spiders are moving too separately to kill them en masse with my traps - one of them dies to the standard, and the other needs a bowshot after taking the special snare. That still leaves me with two spiders chasing me. I quaffed a potion of 0 AC before opening the door but I still don't exactly want to fight these things up close since I have no antidotes. Which means it's time to kite - or I could just lead them to the 2nd floor of Feldepost's. This was almost a disaster. Almost. I score a level from that mess - which also means I score my third proficiency point, which I place in Single Weapon Style. After refreshing my traps I go collect the spoils of war from the battle with the spiders. I still have inventory space, so now it's time to muck around in the west... no, wait, I still need the Worn Whispers. Dangit. Back to the south I go. At least now I can shoot hobgoblins without needing to roll crits. I save some inventory space by equipping a jade ring and the worn boots... which immediately after doing so I come across the hob with the Worn Whispers. It helps my stealth skills a fair bit, but I still want the Shadow Armor to complete the set.
I head westward to my actual targets for this session: Bassilus, the Hobgoblin Trio of Death and Despair, and Mellicamp. But before I get there I get ambushed by some Gibberlings. Yeah no. They can only hit me with a natural 20... which of course means that when they do hit it's going to HURT. I abandon a stack of four arrows to save inventory space (I need a gem bag is what I need). DAMN YOU MERSENNE! Wait, is it a mers-OW (while I'm distracted Goiwam switched back to his bow - but he's got 'attack enemies' switched off in Advanced AI so the gibberling basically got a free round)
So I arrive in Mellicamp's Canyon and start by failing to backstab the wolf. I end up killing it, but I have to burn yet another healing potion (BLAH). I make for Bassilus but pull a wolf by accident. After wasting 150g by trying to poison the wolf, I decide to evacuate to the High Hedge and hope that Mellicamp is spared. Except I pull a Flind on the way in and have to take care of THAT now. *headdesk* And I wasted another 300g trying to poison the Flind. *headdesk 2x combob*
I do eventually kill it for a Detect Invisibilty scroll and 120 exp. THAT WAS NOT WORTH 300 GOLD. And of course Mellicamp fails his constitution check on top of all this.
THIS IS WHY I PLAY FIGHTERS. I'm actually heading back to Beregost to end the session, as I don't want to take on either the Hobgoblin Trio Of Doom and Despair or Bassilus after that fiasco, but the southern border is closer and I know there will be more Flinds if I head to the eastern one. So, naturally, capping off this LOVELY misadventure is the spawning of a skeleton between me and the southern map border. This one skeleton makes me chew through two more potions. Yeah, we're done here. I drop extra gold for the poshest room in the place, which keeps my resting time down to 16 hours.
The wagons and horses were long gone when we started the trek back to Baldurs Gate. And to make things just that bit more difficult, the heat wave broke. We slogged on through the rain, first Nashkel, then Beregost, the FAI, finally arriving at Baldurs Gate once more.
So many tasks people had asked us to help with and nobody really wanted to do any of them. So I set out on my own, leaving the others to their own devices at the Elfsong. First stop, cashing in a favour at the temple to retrieve the boy's body. But I was too late, the father couldn't resurrect him, that was hard to accept and I blamed myself. We could have done this before Durlags but I didn't realise (suppose I should have but we'd used the temples so much it had become routine).
Better news saving the nymph, the mage let her go without a fight and I got some hair as a reward (thanks, not weird at all). Got the skull and lifted the curse off of Ghorak (not sure he deserved it having killed his brother and all). Found Euric for his mother and delieved the amulet, got the cat ring for Petrine. Euric wouldn't go home, Petrine had been kicked out, life really sucks sometimes. Delievered some lost gauntlets, killed an ogre in an inn (as you do!!, talk about a rough crowd), and dropped off the pin we had found near Beregost to the Silvershield estate. Exhausted I made my way back to the Elfsong to find my companions.
The next day much the same but I coerced Edwin into coming along, too many magic users around . He grumbled a lot, but cheered up when we stormed the tower of Ramazith and he could fling spells around. Didn't even complain too much when we braved the sewers and took down an ogre mage. Edwin's an odd one, total failure as a decent human being. But the magic, utterly focused. You can forgive a lot for that power at your disposal.
We checked out the Seven Suns as requested by the FF chief Scar, dopplegangers. We bumped into the hunting lodge chap and investigated his problems, more dopplegangers. Beginning to get paranoid here, had they followed us from Durlags? Was everybody in Baldurs Gate a doppleganger? Was I a doppleganger? How do you tell? Check the teeth, what? Time to call it a day.
After my efforts round the city, we now had official leave to check out the Iron Throne building, find out what we can about what they were up to. From a Duke no less, I'm moving up in the world. So after a few more jobs around the city with everybody on board, we headed to the imposing IT building to meet the IT Crowd (there's a joke there somewhere, damned if I can find it).
The place had the worst security you can imagine, we tricked our way past the guards and made our way to the upper floor where we hoped to find Reiltor. Instead we found his subordinates and they were not very co operative to put it mildly. Had the obligitory, "I'm going to kill you", "no, I'm going to kill you first" speech and then ran downstairs. Got ourselves much better prepared, and stormed the top floor from both staircases.
On one side Branwyn, Viconia, Edwin, respectively throwing oils of burning and fireballs. Kivan and me on the other with arrows of detonation. That warmed things up nicely. Then retreat, rinse and repeat with Kivan on his own, first one side then the other. Only drawback was some invisible assasins following him down, nasty buggers. But we had summoned some skellies and kept moving so they eventually appeared when they tried an attack and we could take them down. (what I wouldn't do for a casting of true sight). When they were done, we all stormed up stairs to finish off whoever had survived Kivan's arrows.
We searched the place and picked up some letters, one from Rietar's son Sarevok, saying he had dealt with us personally. A deliberate lie, why would he do that?
Reported back to Duke Eltan that all the bigwigs had decamped to Candlekeep, what a strange coincidence, almost as if I was tied up in this all along. Whereupon he gave us a book for the entrance fee and told us to get going (is there no law enforcement at all in these parts other than random adventurers like ourselves? What do people pay their taxes for?) So looks like I'm going home.
After returning Rufie to his owner I helped a dryad against some ruffians and rescued Drienne's cat. I then killed a couple of guys who were charging exhorbitnt fees for crossing a bridge and returned to the Carnival for some R & R. Upon heading south I came across an ambush and upon killing the hostile fighters Dorn joined up with me. We killed Kryll, picked up Samuel (literally) and went to the FAI where I dropped of Dorn temporarilly. He warned me not to make a habit of it.
I lost Imoen to the wizards and pinched a ring from the store without upsetting the bodyguards... a hard battle rescued Viconia, then we exited the city and went looking for a wild mage.
Armed with the book given to us by the Duke, we set off towards Candlekeep stopping at the FAI. And here I faced my first mutiny. Edwin refused to budge unless he was given time to study it. "It's a "History of the Nether Scrolls" "But it's indicipherable" "Just because something is beyond the scope of your intellect, do not assume that I am that limited (surrounded by idiots)" "You can't read it either. So what's it about then" "It's a history" "Well yeah, it says that in the title" "It could hold invaluable insights and map the road to immeasurable power" "Could?" "Be thankful that I don't simply murder you all and steal it" "Edwin for all your threats, you have achieved a lot of power travelling with me, all the scrolls, wands, magical bits and pieces (not that you can ever recognise them)" "Is it my fault I travel with the uneducated who can make no use of what we find? But nonetheless, you have a point, very well, no murder but you will give me some time. I am convinced this book will lead to life changing consequences"
Impasse, and truth be told, I was nervous myself about returning to Candlekeep, so much had changed, I had changed. So we compromised, he had three days before we left for Candlekeep.
On the second day Coran turned up on his way to Baldurs Gate. "So Coran, guess who I met in BG, a very nice lady with a half eleven baby, called Brielbara" "A what, who?" "The baby was very cute, little pointed ears, mother said something about being abandoned by her lover and then thrown out by her husband. Dreadful state of affairs" "So where are you going?" "Candlekeep" "I always wanted to visit that great seat of learning"
Viconia was less than pleased. "I cannot believe you are allowing that Darthiir to travel with us again" "Aw come on Vicky" "Don't call me that" "Sorry, but you know I can't use my fingers properly at the moment since that injury, can't open doors or disarm traps. We need him" "Such weakness, in Drow society you would be cast out to starve" "Hmmm...so we have that in common at least. Can't you control him, train him, enslave him? Would have thought it was a piece of cake for you" "Perhaps it would be amusing to practise some of the old techniques, a suitable punishment for one so lacking in proper respect. Very well, watch and learn".
I have to admit feeling the tiniest bit sorry for Coran. On the other hand, he was a complete letch, and unlike Edwin, pretended he wasn't, it was all "I'll love you forever". Hence poor Brielbara. Perhaps with Viconia's tender care he might come to appreciate her more?
I didn't need so many traveling to Candlekeep with me, so I asked Kivan and Branwyn if they would be prepared to wait for us. Actually they were delighted, Kivan wanted to show Branwyn the tree by High Hedge he thought of as home. And Branwyn wanted to get in some serious Tempus praising which she felt had been neglected recently. Though judging by the looks they kept sending each other, Tempus was going to have to take a back seat and cover his all seeing God eyes.
We set out for Candlekeep, separating at the crossroads, K and B carrying on down to Beregost where we had arranged to meet. "So Edwin, diciphered the book" "Enough for my purposes" "So that's a 'not all of it' then" "Shut up"
We were ambushed by a group of Ogre Magi, don't know why, perhaps they were passing? But, lookie here OM, we can go invisible too. And we can throw cloudkill at you, suckers.
Apart from that, easy journey, and we confidently approached the gate warden to be allowed entry.
I headed south and was met by Zargos Flintblade, another assassin. As I was struggling in the fight I stepped inside a building hoping to hide, but was attacked by some war dogs. Fortunately I was not followed inside so I killed the dogs, poisoned my weapon, hid in shadows and went outside again. One blow was sufficient to end the assassins life.
I returned to the Carnival to recover after which I returned and took on Greywolf. He too was tough, and what is more some xvarts aided him. Nevertheless I prevailed and once more went to the Carnival to recover.
I then returned and found the missing emeralds. At that point my reputation dropped, however I gave the stones to Oublek. I then charmed him to help in a fight against a baby wyvern. Sadly he died, but his help was invaluable and I didn't. I found not only the gems on his body, but a large amount of gold as well. Clearly he had been somewhat dishonest in his dealings.
I was then accused of killing the boy's pet, but it all got sorted out in the end, to my satisfaction at least.
I was able to ease Bardolan's tension COMPLETELY. He was so delighted that he gave me a Meg Ryan impersonation.
I then pracised unlocking chests in the barracks but had enough wisdom not to open them.
After that I returned to High Hedge where I was able to find perdue's sword and get Mellicamp back into shape after which we had a romantic pic-nic together.
Whilst getting the sword, the gnolls hurt me badly.
I tried to help Bassilus, but he became hostile. My magical resistance meant that his spells were ineffective. However despite using potions he was getting the better of me in the fight, I therefore fled and recuperated in Beregost. Upon returning, he was also fully recovered but that was of little importance as I was able to backstab and thus kill him. Upon going to the temple for the reward I reached level 6.
After resting I killed two more hobgoblins and ghouls without any problem.
Heading south, I killed four half-ogres before going to an archaeologists dig where I helped Charleston thus gaining a reputation of 20. Time to do some shopping I think.
I bought some potions that would help in Durlag's Tower having heard that it is riddled with traps.
I found a tome and killed Kirinhale plus a number of ghasts. It was at this stage that I realised that I had failed to buy the necklace of missiles despite having sufficient funds.
Perhaps killing ankhegs would give sufficient experience to get to level 7. However I have no idea as to whether I can defeat them as I can't use my backstab ability on them. Perhaps fighting basilisks will work better. I will see how I manage in Durlag's before deciding.
EDIT
Killing two of the basilisks in Durlag's brought me to level 7 so I will now join up with some allies and dual class to a mage. (Possible for an elf with my set-up)
It was strange walking through the grounds once more, nothing looked changed, nothing affected, same people doing the same things, same Chants, . I felt both out of place and at home. You expect everything to change when so much has changed for yourself, it's a sobering thought when you realise the world doesn't revolve around you.
We settled in at the Inn, put up with Winthrop's feeble attempts at humour and discussed our next move. We'd already been warned the IT Crowd were here, having a meeting. We'd also been told that there was a visitor who looked shifty and a monk acting strangely.
"So here's the plan, I'll go have a chat with all my old friends, see what I can find out. Edwin, you go to the library, see if you can spot the shifty visitor. Viconia, you go and try and get some information from those here for the meeting. Coran, see what you can nick. We'll meet back here this evening."
So off I went, fetched Hull his sword, got some crossbow bolts for Fuller, killed some rats for Reevor, fetched a book for Phlydia, got an antidote for Dreppin and practised fighting with Jondalar (that last was a bit unfortunate, but I'm sure the priests will be able to reattach his head, they're very good). Sometimes I feel like I'm caught in some never ending time loop where events keep repeating.......
We met back at the Inn to share information. "Did you see the shifty visitor?" "Yes, said his name was Koveras, very interested in what I was studying in the library. They have a surprisingly extensive "restricted" section.". Edwin blushed, "he gave me a ring, and asked me out, he's dreamy" "Koveras, that's an odd name, almost as though it was made up", (I couldn't shake the feeling I was missing something important.)
"I spoke to the iblith as you instructed, though I fail to see what information I could have obtained without the proper incentives". "You have your looks, your pretty face and never underestimate the importance of body language" "When I can use whips, are you insane?"
Coran had been very quiet up to this point, nervously fiddling with a letter he had stolen. "I found this in a chest, addressed to you".
I read the letter, then read it again. Well Gorion certainly kept that little nugget of tremendously important information to himself. Why didn't he tell me, it would have explained so much of what had been troubling me, the dreams, the powers, the urge to kill (which at that moment was focused heavily on Gorion had he not already been dead). I mean of all the inefficient ways to impart life changing info, leaving a lettter lying around on the off chance I might find it has to be up there. Now he tells me to use the library to look up prophecies when I don't live here anymore, couldn't have suggested it when it was literally on my doorstep? And Sarevok? So wants to kill me, has been to Candlekeep and you didn't perhaps challenge him at the time? Tell his Dad, get him grounded, give a warning his son is a psychopath?
I passed the letter to my companions, fearful of their reactions.
"Let me get this straight, your dead father was a God, you are half divine?" "Seems that way, and there are others according to Alaundo" "So I banged a half Goddess.....and a half God..........result," (careful Edwin, there are those who will be jealous of your prowess)
"It would have been better had the divinity come from your mother, males are inferior" "He was the God of Murder" "I was a high pristess of Lolth and now worship Shar, do you really expect me to hold that against you?"
"I never got a chance to bang you. You were male when we met"
Revelations out of the way and still reeling from the shock, we decided to retire for the night and face the IT Crowd the next day.
Just rolled 101 for a half-orc blackguard. Guess what my next run will be?
Trying to decide whether Dridersdoom will be more comfortable with other drow such as Vynd, Baeloth and Viconia or other good NPCs. In this set-up Jaheira is half drow so that would make up a five member team if I chose drow. I have virtually no experience with them though. That could be a good thing.
I think that I will start with Sirene and Gavin, do his quests, and go from there.
Comments
Also, a long time ago, I remember that you were trying to run a 12 characters run (via permanent simulacrum and xp penalty, if I remember correctly). I think you ran into some technical troubles, but maybe the newest version of the games could make that possible. That would be the type of run I would see you do !!
Other than that, maybe you just need a little break from the game, to come back with fresh ideas and renewed motivation.
Plus, I wouldn't be able to customize them. Having 6 pairs of twins isn't that much more interesting than 6 individuals. And there are balance issues associated with having two characters wearing their own copy of the Robe of Vecna.
@Grond0: I don't generally go with restrictions much. I prefer to plan my runs based on new tactics and tricks--I figure out how to do something weird, then design a strategy around it and see how far I can push it.
I've toyed with the idea of restrictions before, but restrictions haven't actually changed gameplay much for me. Rather than developing new strategies, all I did was lean more heavily on some backup strategies I was already familiar with.
It felt like playing tennis without a racquet, and choosing a baseball bat instead. Sure, it's more challenging, but it doesn't change the mechanics of the game.
I've already tried a restless run, but I really like running caster-heavy parties, which isn't feasible in restless runs. And for a fighter-heavy party, being unable to rest isn't actually a major restriction, considering you can heal yourself using regeneration... and also remove fatigue from everyone in the party except for Charname simply by kicking out party members and bringing them back in (fatigue gets set to 0 when characters leave the party, even if it's just for a moment).
I've started a new solo LoB run with a gnomish Glyphscribe of Deneir/Mage (which is supposed to be possible, but a bug required EEKeeper to implement it). Clerics of Deneir get SR's animal summoning spells, so basically my gnome just sends out a huge pack of dogs and wolves to murdalize gibberlings and kobolds. She's at 180,000 XP and her summons have 98% of all the kills. I spent half the Nashkel mines eating chips.
It's a good strategy, but it doesn't feel very interesting.
I've considered running a solo Seducer (I have some revisions to the kit to make it more interesting), but it's really, really not suited to solo no-reload play, especially in LoB mode. All of its power comes from the enemy's failed saving throws, which are never guaranteed.
Tig-5,
A fathers love,I asked Imoen to toss her 'cloudkill' and Sarevok didn't wait for his bodyguards; a dispel arrow from Dorn, Doom from Tiax and (scroll) Greater Malison from me then he failed his first Polymorph save and its over.
· Imoen stepped out of the party once we get the screen back... apparently Sod wants me to 5 man it... I'll pass thanks!
Bugs;
My portrait doesn't have the same name in bg2ee and I was tempted to fix it but my stated rules say no mods are acceptable so I've had to pick another.
If you're bored with standard summons you could have a go with a shaman. Running that solo in LoB isn't easy, but there are some ways of manipulating the use of their summons that you might find interesting to experiment with.
What about trying a no-kill run - that gives scope for using spells somewhat differently?
Previous updates:
https://forums.beamdog.com/discussion/comment/873494/#Comment_873494
I've been slow about pushing on with this run. As I know so little of SoD, play takes rather more concentration than I usually dedicate to my gaming
In Dragonspear, the saying goes, "scout the territory".
The dungeon groups may be strong
But really they don't last too long
When fireballs bring you glory.
In Dragonspear, the saying goes, "fear not only combat".
While you may wish to seek a thrill
Knowing well that traps can kill
Your run won't last long like that.
In Dragonspear, the saying goes, "stick to what you know."
When that's not much move on fast
Coast Way and Troll Woods are soon passed
Though among the Wyrms you need to take it slow.
Bard L12, 73 HPs (incl. 6 from familiar), 543 kills
Anyway, I hope you find something to your taste
Previous updates:
https://forums.beamdog.com/discussion/comment/873494/#Comment_873494
https://forums.beamdog.com/discussion/comment/874898/#Comment_874898
True to my prediction in the previous post, I didn't last much longer. My impression is that the traps in SoD are far more of a hazard to solo adventurers than in BG1&2 - probably lots more pain to come from those in the future unless I specifically set out to design a safe route through for a no-reload ...
In Dragonspear, the saying goes, "you're about to die my son".
Webs may help take down Ziatar
And summons things even more bizarre
But watch your step or the run is done.
Our next objective is the Planar Prison, unless anyone has a, uhm, safer idea.
So of course I start by failing not once, but twice to set a surprise for Shank. Even with starting as a Dwarf (+10 set traps) Bounty Hunter (+15 set traps) and pumping 40 points into set traps (for a cumulative 65% snare chance) I failed twice. Gah. And being a Bounty Hunter slows my skill progression a little (+20/level instead of 25) which means I'll be crutching with Safana for an extra level. Then again, thieves level crazy fast so that's maybe just a couple extra quests and I still get double snares per rest. Which of course means I'll be resting like crazy for situations where I have control over the battlefield beforehand. Like with Carbos.
Unfortunately I can't RP log this effectively as he's not a Diviner and I know of no recruitable ones in unmodded BGEE. Blah. I "buy" a healing potion from the Clinic for 37 gold (at least I got all my shopping done) and finish the Baby Bhaalspawn quests with a little difficulty - my short sword broke while exterminating the rats, which means fisticuffs and bowshots. Or I could duck outside and set my regular snare, but I don't think the rats will leave the storehouse. Or I could just beat them to death with this quarterstaff that I started with (at THAC0 22, but they're rats)
Strangely enough, Shank is also dumb enough to try to murder me in public.
Parda still felt it necessary to check out the Priest's Quarters, despite Shank lying dead on the side of the road.
I pawn my rewards from the rats and from Phlydia to replace my sword, then spend a gold to replenish my snares. I'll be doing the standard Level Grinding along the sword coast since I want to get my Traps maxed out and starting on my Disarm before I take on Nashkel. I may have made a fatal mistake in ducking Imoen, but I'll level faster this way (and I'm taking Safana instead of Imoen so that she's prepped for SoD).
Traps are virtually useless on Skeletons (they deal missile damage) and with throwing daggers they match me in APR so I have to engage in Melee. Really glad I have that third potion right now. I collect his skull, his daggers, and a spare short sword. I wish I hadn't burned my traps on that fool since I still need Purdue's short sword. I reach the Beregost border, cross my fingers, and camp.
I can breathe easy now; thief traps are your best friend while camping in the wilderness since they're party-friendly, target every hostile within range, and are party-friendly. Much better to set a couple of these babies before resting than to stack skulls. I set a basic snare where I camped, then set my Special a little further south. With my snares set I go south and try to lure the Gnoll with Purdue's sword northward. The thought occurs to me that I can recruit Kivan as cannon fodder here, but he's not a character I've seriously used before and I kinda want to give him a decent shot this time around.
I finally reach the gnolls and - wouldn't you know it? - I can't pull just one coming from the north side of the high hedge. So of course I pull 'em both. On the plus side, I know where they aren't - ahead of me...
Welp, so much for taking potshots on the way in. I also have to reroute the pull so that I can try to hit all three with the special trap (with just two I could use one trap each - gnolls aren't that tough, they just hit like a truck).
Oh look, there's Purdue's sword. The last gnoll follows me to the other snare trap.
I take my spoils of war to Feldepost's to complete the level. One One Three Three One. I put 15 in Set Snare and 5 into Move Silently, to make these even for after I max Find Traps. I need one more level to max my Snare skill, four to max Find Traps, and eight to max both Stealths - a total level of 15, which I believe should be somewhen around Sahaguin City. Joy. Still, getting double snares per day is worth it. A quick rest restores my snares for Karlat. I put the special snare closer to the door, and the regular one a bit further south. Wisely, as it turns out - Karlat eats 15 damage from the special snare and is still three blocks full. The good news is that Special snares surrender one damage roll in favor of their special effect - the southern snare finishes the job.
I duck back into the Red Sheaf to replenish my traps and deliver Purdue's sword. This gives me Level 3, which means 100% Set Snare. Woo. At level 4 I'll have enough Disarm to handle the Nashkel Mines - you can clear every required trap there with 30% find traps. I set all two of my snares under Silke, then go talk to Garrick to get myself some easy money. I'll grab Garrick when I'm ready to start working the coast - I don't like killing Shoal, even if it's worth more XP that way.
Of course, now my traps are out again. I work my way back to Feldepost's for the night - I still need to save Mellicamp and pick up my Whistling Sword +2 (not looking forward to that fight) as well as Bassilus' holy symbol (another icky fight, but for a completely different reason).
Still an enjoyable run.
I then tried a thief run and discovered that I the mod that I made to Mendas in Candlekeep actually made beating him impossible for a thief. I will have to nerf my mod somewhat as I tried beating him 5 times without success. Perhaps I could give Shank better weapons/armour. Of course he could then become too powerful. Trial and error needed.
So for the sake of the narrative, I'm going to have to employ "artistic licence" and just remember that all of the city quests were done after Durlags except for the Hall of Wonders.
The Partridge Family
Having flooded the Cloakwood mines (and rescued the slaves, very important, I am a hero) we headed back to Beregost. Needed to identify stuff, sell stuff, chill for a while and discuss our next move. We were feeling pretty damn pleased with our exploits, pretty rich as well. Drinks on the house for everybody. Even Vicky relaxed enough not to threaten anybody who looked her way with unimaginable tortures, though the young bard she found hanging around outside the Burning Wizard was never going to be the same again.
Kivan was still fretting about Tazok but Branwyn was very succesful keeping him occupied, lets face it, there's a lot of Branwyn to keep any man occupied.
Edwin suggested that I explore all the possibilities offered by my belt in the interest of research. He had a point, though I put my foot down at a straightfoward swap, not into women but men, hmmm, (suffice to say it was interesting.....and more complicated).
So, our next move, onto Baldurs Gate and investigate this "Iron Throne". Decided that it was time to "take arms against a sea of troubles, And by opposing, end them?" Viconia's Bard was surprisingly good!!
So up north once again, killed some more Ankhegs, as you do, was asked to sort out some fishing rights dispute, sided with the priestess because "Umberlee", enough said. Crossed the bridge, was approached by customs, said we had nothing to declare and yes we had packed our backpacks ourselves. Was taken to a small room and asked to wait.
Upshot, head of the local law enforcement wanted us to work for them undercover, very cloak and dagger.
Met a psycho elf with a wolf fetish, pretty but what a bitch, Kivan was reduced to tears, (can't blame him even V and E thought she was harsh). Branwyn took her apart...slowly.
Finally, Baldurs Gate.
And what's the first thing we see?
Bloody Elminster shuffling around glad handing the tourists.
Got the usual enigmatic "one with your heritage" what heritage? Tell me you senile old fool, oh no, that would be too helpful, you're far too busy cadging coppers.
Repaired to the Elfsong, more wine, met a gnome, took a "commission", and called in on the local thieves in spite of disapproval from the more law abiding members of the group. The thing is K and B, we're only just this side of being hung for all sorts ourselves. A good prosecuter would surely be able to get a conviction for disrupting commerce, unlawful killing (have you forgotten Dynaheir so soon?), poaching, drunkeness, enviromental damage, the list goes on and on. And I'm not exactly the person who walks past a locked door and just thinks "oh, private property, must respect that". I reckon I'd be down about 15 hands had I lived where law enforcement was a little more abrupt (itty bitty stumps at my shoulders by now).
So that night we hit the town, laughable security at the museum, even worse at one house where walking in armed to the teeth I was hired as a cleaner. That must be one hell of a cockroach problem they have. We crossed swords with a dodgy looking couple, they approached we attacked, paranoia is well set in. Just as well, they were carrying a couple of very valuable items which could have caused us no end of grief. Another pair of BOS and a fantastic short bow I can actually use, and five potions of poison. That last bit was very odd.
The next day got asked to retrieve a dead body from the sewers, was asked to retrieve another dead body from a temple, a skull from a pub, (have they never heard of cemetaries) asked to deal with shenanigans at a merchants guild, a cure for a curse for a baby, to kill a basilisk, a peeping tom, a blackmailer, a mage, deliver an amulet, retrieve a ring, a cloak, a helmet, a book.
This city is a mess.
So by unanimous vote, we decided to take a holiday up the coast as there's no way we are going to go down in the sewers in midsummer when it hasn't rained for a while. All these ongoing troubles can on go for a bit longer. TBH, just couldn't get the enthusiasm up, it's August, summer holiday time, need to work on our tans (we can find a dank cave for Vicky). Come back refreshed and willing.
So went up to Ulgoth's Beard, and lo and behold, another load of people asking us to do stuff. But one interesting attraction, guided tours of Durlags Tower. Plus of course a couple of people asking us to fetch something from Durlags. The dagger, well if we find it fair enough. But the mother asking us to look for her son, that struck a chord, we'd seen the horrors of the first level and we'd come across so many grieving parents and families on our travels.
So we paid our money and decided to take the tour.
or
The Partridge Family Do Durlag
It was very refreshing riding a wagon for once rather than slogging on foot as we usually do, spirits were high. Did get me to thinking why we have never used horses when we see quite a few of them around, (graphics/coding/animal rights?) But the mood changed as the Tower loomed up before us. Subdued, the tour group made it's way through the entrance and the patter of the salesman couldn't compensate for the feeling of doom that surrounded us.
Now we had visited previously, cleared the first few levels, so stood around smirking at the others with that insufferable smugness that always occurs when only some are "in the know". I don't know why it happened, perhaps it was the number of people milling around that disturbed the evil lurking in the Tower, but then the Demon Knight appeared and issued his challenge. Followed by a fireball that obliterated the previously happy tourists.
So left on our own, what to do?
Kivan and Branwyn wanted to smite the evil, predictable. Viconia was happy as long as she was out of the accursed sun, so was all for staying. Edwin recognised power when he saw it and of course wanted more. I wanted to try and rescue the son, sentimental I know. So on we went, back to the Dwarven Guards, clutching our bottle of wine as offering (not a particually good vintage, they are ghosts after all).
And all hell broke loose.
It was one hell of a fight, started by Edwin throwing whatever he could at the area webs/grease to slow the guards down, that worked on one so was able to safely shoot him (it) from a distance. Sent the Skellies after the "Love" guard as they are a mage, they managed. The last two were the problem, fireballs and skull traps took down one from out of sight. Trouble was that once they moved into our area, the only thing Edwin could do was go invisible, otherwise it's one perhaps two hits and he's dead. And the bugger kept on going invisible, so had to retreat myself. That left it up to B/V and Kivan and the few remaining skellies. Well they won through, but in the process Branwyn got chunked.
(Now at this point, going to have to break the reload rule, so if this thread needs to be moved to playthrough, feel free)
So reload, and this time the fight went very well except that Edwin got killed because he stayed and fought rather than retreat and stay safe. Actually it went a little too well, I did think at the time that we had missed something, lost count along the way. So retreated to a temple, bought Edwin back, (promised him all sorts as compensation) and then came back to head down to the next level. So venture down through the weird tomb/staircase thing, and guess who's there to greet us?
Nasty guard number four, (Avarice?)
No choice in that confined space but everybody to thump him, got a haste off and miraculously everybody survived, it was a close call for Kivan and Viconia, (the temple will have a gold roof before we are finished I'm beginning to think.)
This level is trapped, I mean trapped like nobody's business. Skipped around disarming them, then webs, cloudkill, fireballs work exceptionally well I'll have you know. And an important discovery, duh moment from me. If you buy all the dispelling arrows you can, and use them sparingly, the dopplegangers are completely f*cked (excuse the language but it really was something I never do because always paranoid about running out for the last Sarevok battle). Decided that I would take on the Kiel guards rather than skip them eventhough I only ever sell the stuff. Another hard fight, a 100 charge summoning wand is such a useful gadget.
So ever downwards.
We run past the fireballs and found ourselves in a garden, awww nice, awww, ghasts, not so nice, awww invisible, annoying, ghost, child, nobody knows what, not very nice at all. Summons all the way, invisible backstabbers are so not my favourite thing, (and SCS uses so many, I think they got the idea from here). Platforms with skeleton archers, one fireball on each platform, poof, no more archers, smirk, giggle. And lots of lovely arrows to pick up (still can't identify the +2 though, which doesn't make any kind of sense as detonation/dispelling arows have to be rarer don't they?).
Then four rooms representing the elements, fire/cold/poison easy. Air memphit? How hard does that hit? It's made of air, illogical.
Killed two wyvens, chickened out from the third as the first two nearly did for us. Chased up the corridor, out into the "garden", didn't think it would get through the door, scattered, thankfully I had cleared all the traps.
And so then the chess board. My game won't automatically transfer you so have to use console, thank the Gods. So have time to fully buff and prepare. Have learnt to transfer invisible to get the first shots in. Edwin web, everybody else hurling oils of FB and explosion potions into the incoming hoard. Arrows of detonation into those who get webbed or hold back. Viconia and Branwyn my only melee fighters, two always get through. Edwin cloudkill, me because no reload, after the first couple of shots scarper. Kivan left to shoot what he can (and blow himself up if you are not careful with the arrows, oops). Managed to paralyse one of the melee fighters which allowed V and B to survive, then just the king. I took over the shooting, arrows of biting, Edwin fireballs, check mate. Strength potions to carry all the spoils with Kivan down. Speak to Durlag. Ask the nice lady to transport us out for our regular trip to the temple.
(have to keep going, other wise lose momentum)
At the temple we sat and licked our wounds and waited for Kivan to "come back". I asked him why he hadn't gone off to find Deheiriananana, he said it was to keep his promise to avenge her (also might have something to do with Branwyn methinks as their reunion was very touching...in all sorts of innappropriate places).
So time for a motivational speech to the troops.
"Awww, come on guys, you can't let me down , purleeese, pretty please, think of the gold, you don't want to see me angry, I'll cry, aww go on, you know you want to, just because you hate me, it's not fair, I always do what you want to do, it's my turn to choose, nobody cares about what I feel, none of you understand me, I hate you, I'm going to run away then you'll be sorry, you're all just so mean to me"
After 2 hours of this they gave in.
So back to Durlags it was, have to say, quite a feeling of accomplishment running through the untrapped and cleared out (except for a few ghasts/spiders) rooms down to the lower levels.
Buoyed up we took down the third wyvern and released the statues. Whereupon they turned on each other, jeez, you'd think they'd learn.
Across the chess board and then to have a proper talk with the ghost.
The answer was to learn about what had happened here. A tragedy in anybody's reckoning.
Having to kill dopplegangers who looked like those he loved whilst knowing they were all already dead. It must have been tempting to let them live, when they still held the memories, the personalities of those they had killed?
It begs the question, would you kill the doppleganger when it could at least pretend to be your child when the child was already dead?
No wonder he had been driven mad, and such guilt never knowing if you did the right thing, left with nothing when there might have been a way to have something however wrong?
We cleared the caves, we talked to the monster who had once been an ally. He warned us of the evil that we could face that had damned him to this. We gave him the release he desired and wondered how much killing there was still to do.
We answered the questions, we understood but did that matter after all this time?
Finally we returned to Durlag and he told us there was a greater evil who had moved into the Tower, the Demon Knight we had encountered at the entrance. He gave us the choice, leave or defeat it.
We met the woman who had been part of the group who we had seen traces of, the group with Dalton, the son of the woman at Ulgoth's Beard. But now he was caught by the Demon Knight. After all the death, all the sorrow of the Tower, we had to at least try and save something.
Or rather, me, Kivan, Branwyn thought so, Viconia was more inclined to take the view that if he survived on his own it would be a good test, make him strong, she's not very maternal at all. Edwin, after checking out the woman, just wanted to display his spell slinging and was dismissive about any threat posed.
So unanimously (well as close as it was ever going to get with this group) we headed through the door to face the Demon Knight.
OT
And the last little fight just before this point, I kid you not, I achieved level 10 Swashie. So dualed, not going to waste that amount of XP, so hit the Demon Knight, level 1 fighter. Going to be relying on the team here rather a lot. 2 points long bow, 2 points Bastard sword (foebane is the goal) and we had a spare FMP.
The fight went OK, done it far more efficiently in the past though. I am a lot less parsimonious with potions nowadays, don't hoard them as much. Arrows of dispelling, works everytime. Skellies to soak up attention, missile weapons and magic from distance. Kivan got held, but the DK came up the other steps, we ran away, we played tag for a while.
I know there is a way where you use the mirror, did that once years ago by mistake, or am I imagining it?
I'm sure I ended up fighting clones or something.
Rescued Dalton (yay, us being heroic again) and sent him home. We left Durlags Tower, richer, more experienced and somewhat reflective.
As an aside.
I wish I knew who wrote Durlags Tower. Everytime, although I kind of dread bothering with it, I end up getting caught up in the atmosphere. I still read all the stone head bit, (we came from the west ect.) often all the books and love the lore.
It's an outstanding dungeon and piece of RPG IMO.
I did have to use a healing potion against Mendas, but I now realise that better tactics were sufficient so won't make any changes to my set up. Single class thieves won't be as successful as a fighter/thief was, but will be successful enough.
The first thief that I was testing was an adventurer. No backstab multiplier! The one that succeeded was, not surprisingly, an assassin.
Weidu Log:
// Log of Currently Installed WeiDU Mods
// The top of the file is the 'oldest' mod
// ~TP2_File~ #language_number #component_number // [Subcomponent Name -> ] Component Name [ : Version]
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Slime Quest: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #1 // Beregost Family Quest: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #2 // Installing the Babysitting Quest, including the Carnival Encounter...: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #3 // Nashkel Monster Quest: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #4 // Fallen Paladin Quest: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #5 // Undying Love Quest: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #6 // Orcish Lover Encounter: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #7 // Unexpected Help Quest: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #8 // "Many Little Paws": v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #9 // Drunk near Beregost Temple: v14
~BGQE/SETUP-BGQE.TP2~ #0 #10 // A Warm Place for Noober: v14
~DRIZZTSAGA/DRIZZTSAGA.TP2~ #0 #0 // The Drizzt Saga for BGEE/Tutu/BGT -> Default version: areas connected by travel triggers: v3.00
~DRIZZTSAGA/DRIZZTSAGA.TP2~ #0 #2 // Raise the XP cap: v3.00
~DRIZZTSAGA/DRIZZTSAGA.TP2~ #0 #3 // Delayed start: Drizzt joins after Durlag's Tower: v3.00
~RECOLOREDBUTTONS/SETUP-RECOLOREDBUTTONS.TP2~ #0 #1 // Recolored character's toolbar buttons (BG:EE) -> Golden color scheme: v4.1
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #0 // Ice Island Level Two Restoration: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #1 // The Mysterious Vial: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #4 // Finishable Kagain Caravan Quest: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #6 // Kivan and Tazok: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #7 // Branwen and Tranzig: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #10 // Place Entar Silvershield in His Home: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #11 // Scar and the Sashenstar's Daughter: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #12 // Quoningar, the Cleric: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #13 // Shilo Chen and the Ogre-Magi: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #14 // Edie, the Merchant League Applicant: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #16 // Creature Corrections: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #17 // Creature Restorations: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #18 // Creature Name Restorations: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #19 // Minor Dialogue Restorations: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #21 // Store, Tavern and Inn Fixes and Restorations: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #22 // Item Corrections and Restorations: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #28 // Prism and the Emeralds Tweak: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #29 // Duke Eltan in the Harbor Master's Building: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #30 // Nim Furlwing Encounter: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #32 // Svlast, the Fallen Paladin Encounter: v14.0
~BG1UB/SETUP-BG1UB.TP2~ #0 #33 // Mal-Kalen, the Ulcaster Ghost: v14.0
~BYMULTIPORT/BYMULTIPORT.TP2~ #0 #0 // Multi-Portrait Mod: 1.5
~SETUP-DARKHORIZONSBGEE.TP2~ #0 #0 // "Dark Horizons" Mod for Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition: BG:EE v213
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #40 // Change Viconia's Skin Color to Dark Blue: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #50 // Avatar Morphing Script: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #60 // Weapon Animation Tweaks: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #110 // Icon Improvements: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #130 // Force All Dialogue to Pause Game: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #140 // Fix Boo's Squeak: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #180 // Unique Containers -> Fixes only: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #191 // Use Character Colors Instead of Item Colors -> For non-magical shields and helmets: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1036 // Make Cloakwood Areas Available Before Completing the Bandit Camp -> All of Cloakwood Except the Mines: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1070 // Improved Multi-Player Kick-out Dialogues: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1080 // Add Bags of Holding: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1090 // Exotic Item Pack: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1100 // Reveal City Maps When Entering Area: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1120 // Stores Sell Higher Stacks of Items: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #1250 // Move NPCs from Baldur's Gate: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2040 // Universal Clubs: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2060 // Weapon Styles for All: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2151 // Wear Multiple Protection Items -> No Restrictions: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2200 // Multi-Class Grandmastery (Weimer): Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2211 // Change Grandmastery Bonuses -> BG2 Grandmastery Rules: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2352 // Alter Multiclass Restrictions -> Install both of the above options: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2360 // Remove Racial Restrictions for Single Classes: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2371 // Alter Dual-class Restrictions -> Allow non-humans to dual-class: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2380 // Remove Racial Restrictions for Kits: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2420 // Loosen Equipment Restrictions for Cleric Multi-Classes: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2440 // Everyone Gets Bonus APR from Specialization: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #2999 // Max HP at Level One: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3000 // Higher HP on Level Up -> Maximum: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3010 // Maximum HP for NPCs (the bigg) -> For All Creatures in Game: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3031 // Easy Spell Learning -> 100% Learn Spells and No Maximum Cap: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3040 // Make Bags of Holding Bottomless: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3050 // Remove fatigue from restoration spells: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3080 // Increase Ammo Stack Size -> Unlimited Ammo Stacking: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3090 // Increase Gem and Jewelry Stacking -> Unlimited Gem and Jewelry Stacking: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3100 // Increase Potion Stacking -> Unlimited Potion Stacking: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3110 // Increase Scroll Stacking -> Unlimited Scroll Stacking: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3121 // Happy Patch (Party NPCs do not complain about reputation) -> NPCs Can Be Angry About Reputation but Never Leave (Salk): Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3125 // Neutral Characters Make Happy Comments at Mid-Range Reputation: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3190 // Rest Anywhere (Japheth): Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3205 // Stores Purchase All Item Types: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3220 // Sensible Entrance Points: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #3230 // Taerom Makes Additional Ankheg Armor (Icendoan/grogerson): Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4000 // Adjust Evil joinable NPC reaction rolls: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4020 // ToB-Style NPCs: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4031 // Consistent Stats: Edwin -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4041 // Consistent Stats: Jaheira -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4061 // Consistent Stats: Minsc -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4071 // Consistent Stats: Viconia -> Use BG2 Values: Beta 5
~CDTWEAKS/SETUP-CDTWEAKS.TP2~ #0 #4090 // Make Montaron an Assassin (Andyr): Beta 5
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #5 // Bjornin's Desire, by jastey (adult content): v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #13 // A Lonely Dryad, by Kulyok (adult content): v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #14 // Edwin's Softer Side, by Kulyok: v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #24 // A Night with Lais in Imnesvale, by Kulyok: v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #30 // Rebecca the Gypsy, by Kulyok: v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #41 // Isabelle's Fears, by gertjanvh (adult content): v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #45 // Rehearsal with Chandra, by Western Paladin: v11
// Recently Uninstalled: ~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #52 // Minsc. Takes. A Bath, by Thimblerig: v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #5 // Bjornin's Desire, by jastey (adult content): v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #13 // A Lonely Dryad, by Kulyok (adult content): v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #14 // Edwin's Softer Side, by Kulyok: v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #24 // A Night with Lais in Imnesvale, by Kulyok: v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #30 // Rebecca the Gypsy, by Kulyok: v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #41 // Isabelle's Fears, by gertjanvh (adult content): v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #45 // Rehearsal with Chandra, by Western Paladin: v11
~RE/SETUP-RE.TP2~ #0 #52 // Minsc. Takes. A Bath, by Thimblerig: v11
~CORANBGFRIEND/CORANBGFRIEND.TP2~ #0 #0 // Coran's Extended BG Friendship Talks: v4
~XANBG1FRIEND/SETUP-XANBG1FRIEND.TP2~ #0 #0 // Xan's friendship path for BG1: v9bgee
~SETUP-WMART.TP2~ #0 #0 // Deidre and Joluv in BG:EE
~S3DISCLUBS/S3DISCLUBS.TP2~ #0 #0 // Distinguisable Clubs: V1.1
~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #30 // Improved Specialist Mage Descriptions: v4
~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #31 // Replace Berserker Kit with Battlerager for Dwarves: v4
~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #900 // Add Red Wizard to Edwin's Kit Description: v4
~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #1400 // Give Imoen Adventurer Kit: v4
~NPCKIT/NPCKIT.TP2~ #0 #2300 // Change Minsc's Title to Rashemaar Ranger: v4
~SETUP-BGEEAR.TP2~ #0 #0 // TeamBG's Armors for BG:EE, BGT and TuTu Version 1.05
~SETUP-BG2EEW.TP2~ #0 #0 // TeamBG's Weapons Pack for BG2:EE Version 1.01
~WANDCASE/WANDCASE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Wand Case: v1.3
~SETUP-VYND.TP2~ #0 #0 // Vynd for BGTutu, BGT and BG:EE
~GARRICK_FLIRT/SETUP-GARRICK_FLIRT.TP2~ #0 #0 // Garrick's Infatuation: b20140925
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #102 // Choose a class for Imoen -> Make Imoen a multiclass mage/thief: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #121 // Choose a class for Jaheira -> Make Jaheira a druid: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #141 // Choose a class for Khalid -> Make Khalid a ranger/cleric: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #161 // Choose a class for Minsc -> Make Minsc a fighter: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #181 // Choose a class for Dynaheir -> Make Dynaheir a sorcerer: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #221 // Choose a class for Coran -> Make Coran a thief: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #242 // Choose a class for Branwen -> Make Branwen a multiclass fighter/cleric: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #302 // Choose a class for Xzar -> Make Xzar a necromancer/cleric: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #321 // Choose a class for Montaron -> Make Montaron a thief: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #464 // Choose a class for Alora -> Make Alora a cleric/thief: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #483 // Choose a class for Xan -> Make Xan a fighter/mage: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #583 // Choose a class for Viconia -> Make Viconia a cleric/thief: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #621 // Choose a class for Neera -> Make Neera a sorcerer: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #2000 // NPC kit choices: v2.6.6
~NPC_EE/NPC_EE.TP2~ #0 #3000 // multiclass kit choice: v2.6.6
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #11 // Install new spells -> Only add spells if not present from other mods: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #100 // Cleric Remix: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #103 // Install Silverstar of Selune Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #106 // Install Nightcloak of Shar Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #107 // Install Holy Strategist of the Red Knight Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #109 // Install Battleguard of Tempus Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #115 // Install Firewalker of Kossuth Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #118 // Install Authlim of Iyachtu Xvim Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #124 // Install Heartwarder of Sune Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #127 // Install Feywarden of Corellon Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #130 // Install Strifeleader of Cyric Cleric Kit: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #600 // Install Battleguard of Tempus Kit for Branwen: v8
~DIVINE_REMIX/SETUP-DIVINE_REMIX.TP2~ #0 #610 // Install Nightcloak of Shar Kit for Viconia: v8
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Amount of -ahem- details and BG-style vs. description text!: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #1 // Bardolan's Briefing, by berelinde: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #2 // Scar's Spare Time, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #3 // Kim's Preoccupation, by jastey (WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #4 // Extension of Bjornin Encounter (Personal Wound Treatment), by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #5 // No Starch in the Maypole: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #6 // Duke Eltan's Spare Minute, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #7 // Husam's Personal Preparation, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #8 // Laurel's Post-Hunting, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #9 // Bartus' Seduction, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #10 // Lina's Massage, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #11 // First Night with Quentin, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #12 // Chatting Niklos Up, by Kulyok (mature content. WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #13 // Slythe and Krystin, by Kulyok (mature content. WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #14 // No Regrets: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #15 // Purchased Love, by Thimblerig: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #16 // Hull: Heavy Duty, by Lava: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #17 // Late Night with Jaheira, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #18 // Sil's Blessing, by Lava: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #19 // Melicamp: The Poultry Boy, by Lava: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #20 // Reading with Rinnie, by Western Paladin: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #21 // Molly the Husband-Grabber, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #22 // The Mourning of Centeol, the Spider Lady, by Lava: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #23 // The Essential End, by Lava: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #24 // The Harvestmen Lair, by Lava (mature content): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #25 // The Great Zudini, by Kulyok (mature content): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #26 // The Messenger, by Thimblerig: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #27 // Ender Sai, the Hero's Reward, by Thimblerig (WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #28 // The Novelists, by Thimblerig: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #29 // The Honest Lies of Two Riversides, By Lava: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #30 // Necromancer's Trouble, by jastey (WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #31 // Dinner with Thalantyr, by jastey: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #32 // Girdle of Gender Reactions, by Thimblerig, Kulyok, Domi, Lava, Lastknightleft, Twani, Jastey, Daisy Ninja Girl: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #33 // The Surgeon's Dream, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #34 // All That Left Was, by Lava and Thimblerig: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #35 // A Childhood Friend, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #36 // Arlene the Working Girl, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #37 // Della May from Thay, by Kulyok: v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #38 // A Dirty Guard in Candlekeep, by Kulyok (mature content. WARNING - refer to the readme!): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #39 // Phoenix Flame, by Kulyok (mature content): v1.6
~BG1RE/SETUP-BG1RE.TP2~ #0 #40 // Mikala the Monk, by Twani: v1.6
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #0 // The BG1 NPC Project: Required Modifications: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #1 // The BG1 NPC Project: Banters, Quests, and Interjections: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #9 // The BG1 NPC Project: Ajantis Romance Core (teen content): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #10 // The BG1 NPC Project: Branwen's Romance Core (teen content): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #11 // The BG1 NPC Project: Coran's Romance Core (adult content): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #12 // The BG1 NPC Project: Dynaheir's Romance Core (teen content): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #13 // The BG1 NPC Project: Shar-Teel Relationship Core (adult content): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #14 // The BG1 NPC Project: Xan's Romance Core (teen content): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #15 // The BG1 NPC Project: Female Romance Challenges, Ajantis vs Xan vs Coran: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #18 // The BG1 NPC Project: Alora's Starting Location -> Alora Starts in Gullykin: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #20 // The BG1 NPC Project: Eldoth's Starting Location -> Eldoth Starts on the Coast Way: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #22 // The BG1 NPC Project: Quayle's Starting Location -> Quayle Starts at the Nashkel Carnival: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #24 // The BG1 NPC Project: Tiax's Starting Location -> Tiax Starts in Beregost: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #30 // The BG1 NPC Project: Cloakwood areas availability in Chapter One -> Open four Cloakwood areas (everything but the Mines): v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #32 // The BG1 NPC Project: Sarevok's Diary Adjustments -> Sarevok's Diary Date Changes only: v22.8
~BG1NPC/BG1NPC.TP2~ #0 #200 // The BG1 NPC Project: Player-Initiated Dialogues: v22.8
~DELAINY/SETUP-DELAINY.TP2~ #0 #1 // Delainy/Durlyle Same-Sex Romance Options -> Always spawn Durlyle.: v0.91
~DELAINY/SETUP-DELAINY.TP2~ #0 #3 // Dialogue Fixes: v0.91
~K9SHARTEELNPC/SETUP-K9SHARTEELNPC.TP2~ #0 #0 // Install Shar-Teel NPC Mod: v1.2
~NORACERESTRICTIONS/SETUP-NORACERESTRICTIONS.TP2~ #0 #0 // BCaesar's No Race Restrictions Mod: Version1.01
~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Sirene NPC for Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition
~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #1 // Sirene NPC for Baldur's Gate: Siege of Dragonspear
~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #3 // Choose an alternate class for Sirene? -> Cavalier
~SIRENE/SETUP-SIRENE.TP2~ #0 #7 // Alternate Portrait (BG2 style) by Isandir
~SOA/SETUP-SOA.TP2~ #0 #0 // The Stone of Askavar for TotSC/Tutu/BGT/BGEE -> Default version: areas connected by travel triggers: 2.0
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #0 // Copy all portraits for use by player characters: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #1 // Replace all NPC portraits (AMOK): v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #4 // Alternate Branwen portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #7 // Alternate Coran Portrait -> Alternate by Melisah: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #10 // Alternate Dynaheir Portrait -> Alternate #3 by Amok: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #13 // Alternate Faldorn Portrait: by XVIII: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #19 // Alternate Kivan Portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #23 // Alternate Safana Portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2
~BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK/BG1NPC_PORTRAIT_PACK.TP2~ #0 #27 // Alternate Viconia Portrait: BioWare edit by XVIII: v2
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #0 // Alternate Aerie Portrait by sporeboy!: v3
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #1 // Alternate Imoen Portrait by sporeboy!: v3
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #2 // Alternate Jaheira Portrait by sporeboy!: v3
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #3 // Alternate Mazzy Portrait by sporeboy!: v3
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #4 // Alternate Nalia Portrait by sporeboy!: v3
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #6 // Alternate Viconia Portrait by sporeboy!: v3
~SAPP/SETUP-SAPP.TP2~ #0 #7 // Install new portraits to the 'portraits' directory: v3
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #0 // Copy all portraits for use by player characters: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #1 // Install new portrait for Aerie: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #2 // Install new portrait for Anomen: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #3 // Install new portrait for Cernd: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #4 // Install new portrait for Edwin: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #5 // Install new portrait for Imoen: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #6 // Install new portrait for Jaheira: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #7 // Install new portrait for Jan: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #8 // Install new portrait for Keldorn: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #9 // Install new portrait for Korgan: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #10 // Install new portrait for Mazzy: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #11 // Install new portrait for Minsc: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #12 // Install new portrait for Nalia: v2
~PLASMOPORTRAITS/SETUP-PLASMOPORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #13 // Install new portrait for Viconia: v2
~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #0 // Alternate Aerie Portrait by JPS: v3
~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #1 // Alternate Imoen Portrait by JPS: v3
~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #3 // Alternate Jaheira Portrait - Option 2 by JPS: v3
~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #4 // Alternate Nalia Portrait by JPS: v3
~SETUP-JPS_PORTRAITS.TP2~ #0 #5 // Alternate Viconia Portrait by JPS: v3
~SETUP-BGII-SUBRACE.TP2~ #0 #1 // GUI changes for subrace mod
~SETUP-BGII-SUBRACE.TP2~ #0 #2 // Alternate NPC subraces
~SETUP-BGII-SUBRACE.TP2~ #0 #0 // Subrace mini-mod for BGII v1.0
My thief is a chotic good drow assassin called Dridersdoom. Her only memory prior to Candlekeep is of her mother telling her to flee as she fought off some driders. As a result Dridersdoom has an intense hatred of driders. After reading about the drow in Candlekeep Dridersdoom realised that her mother must have been a rogue drow to have sacrificed her own life for her. However, in the end it was the rising sun that caused the driders to call ofrf the chase. All this she managed to accurately deduce from the Candlekeep writings.
She has Str 18, Dex 19, Con 17, Int 20, Wis 10, Cha 10. The intention is to dual to mage at level 7.
She has beaten all the bad guys in Candlekeep and had a not-so-unusual escapade for a drow with a guard in the inn. Firebead gave her 300gp and she acquired the 1000gp gem too. The armour that Mendas was wearing gives some thieving bonuses as well as being +3 leather. The sub-race mod gives her some advantages and disadvantages:
DROW: Drow, also known as dark elves, are the subterranean cousins of high elves.
Their black skin and pale hair are a curse for their allegiance with the spider goddess,
Lolth.
Drow societies are usually ruled by cruel clerics of Lolth and their noble houses.
Dark elves are known for their arrogance, cruelty, and penchant for civil war.
- ADVANTAGES: +1 to Intelligence, +1 to Charisma, Magic Resistance of 50% and +2% every
level thereafter to a maximum of 80%, +2 to all Spell Saves and Faerie Fire 3/Day.
- DISADVANTAGES: -20% experience modifier, and -1 to THAC0 and saving throws when outside
during the day. The sun blindness should not be applied during the night or inside, but it does. It is one of a number of bugs. Sadly the sub-race is not shown on the record sheet and some of the gui changes don't work.
Journal of Dridersdoom
After we were ambushed I returned to where Gorion was killed. On his body were unsurprisingly a mage's robe and a belt that protects from cold. Also a knife. He should have told me that he didn't have a good one. I'd have given him the one that I found on Shank's body. There was also a sword that looks suspiciously like the one that mother was wielding when she was killed. How Gorion acquired it I have no idea. perhaps it was still there when he found me. I felt irresistably drawn to pick it up. Once I did so, it was almost as if we became one. I also felt mothers' presence there which was comforting.At the Friendly Arms Inn I easily killed Tarnesh and some hobgoblins. Joia rewarded me for the return of her ring with an increase in reputation. I was given some potions of antidote aganst poison by Landrin on the understanding that I would clear some spiders from his home in Beregost.
I spent a VERY pleasureable night with Quentin before heading northwards the next day.
I helped a widow by disposing of her undead husband and then helped Tenya against some evil fishermen. As a result I reached level 3.
In Beregost I calmed down Marl, took a tome to Firebead and killed the spiders. I didn't need the potions.
EDIT
I then learnt that there were problems in Nashkel and on the way there killed a couple of ogrillon and several hobgoblins. I found some useful boots on one of them.I also met Left and then left.
After arriving at the carnival I gained the ability to heal.
In Nashkel I talked to Oublek who considers me to be fine and honest. Clearly he knows nothing of what I have been up to, breaking into chests and tealing the contest and the like!
I also talked to Noober, and helped a couple of ghosts to be re-united.
I have agreed to help a boy find his dog Rufie.
My portrait doesn't have the same name in bg2ee and I was tempted to fix it but my stated rules say no mods are acceptable so I've had to pick another.
I wouldn't have called changing a portrait name a mod.
Before I even leave Feldepost's, I set some surprises for when Chapter Two comes along. I'm totally going to forget those are there and find it hilarious when what'sisname dies almost instantly after picking a fight (traps don't expire).
I strike for the south to pick up the Worn Whispers (very quicky going off the road since I've died to the Ogrillons before and don't want to burn my traps quite yet). Unfortunately I still get too close for comfort to the ogrillons, so I set my special snare on the other side of Floodhaus. To my consternation, the Ogrillons catch up before my aura clears, which wastes my standard snare, so only one of them gets killed by a trap. I use an AI exploit unique to the Enhanced Editions (hostiles will move to where you're going to instead of tracking your current location if they're not in range to attack you) to keep the Ogrillon busy while I kite it. I wasn't planning on delivering Roe's message, but the ring is nice and I need my traps back anyway.
I dropped 750g on ten arrows of biting; I really hate buying these since the coastline is a really good source of them, but I'm going to need them very soon. At this point I get the brilliant idea to try to take down the spiders in Landrin's house. This is a bad idea for a couple reasons - they're poisonous (which means Melee is BAD) and I don't have a lot of inventory space right now.
Well, this is a dilly of a pickle. The spiders are moving too separately to kill them en masse with my traps - one of them dies to the standard, and the other needs a bowshot after taking the special snare. That still leaves me with two spiders chasing me. I quaffed a potion of 0 AC before opening the door but I still don't exactly want to fight these things up close since I have no antidotes. Which means it's time to kite - or I could just lead them to the 2nd floor of Feldepost's.
This was almost a disaster. Almost. I score a level from that mess - which also means I score my third proficiency point, which I place in Single Weapon Style. After refreshing my traps I go collect the spoils of war from the battle with the spiders. I still have inventory space, so now it's time to muck around in the west... no, wait, I still need the Worn Whispers. Dangit. Back to the south I go. At least now I can shoot hobgoblins without needing to roll crits. I save some inventory space by equipping a jade ring and the worn boots... which immediately after doing so I come across the hob with the Worn Whispers. It helps my stealth skills a fair bit, but I still want the Shadow Armor to complete the set.
I head westward to my actual targets for this session: Bassilus, the Hobgoblin Trio of Death and Despair, and Mellicamp. But before I get there I get ambushed by some Gibberlings.
Yeah no. They can only hit me with a natural 20... which of course means that when they do hit it's going to HURT. I abandon a stack of four arrows to save inventory space (I need a gem bag is what I need).
DAMN YOU MERSENNE! Wait, is it a mers-OW (while I'm distracted Goiwam switched back to his bow - but he's got 'attack enemies' switched off in Advanced AI so the gibberling basically got a free round)
So I arrive in Mellicamp's Canyon and start by failing to backstab the wolf.
I end up killing it, but I have to burn yet another healing potion (BLAH). I make for Bassilus but pull a wolf by accident. After wasting 150g by trying to poison the wolf, I decide to evacuate to the High Hedge and hope that Mellicamp is spared. Except I pull a Flind on the way in and have to take care of THAT now. *headdesk* And I wasted another 300g trying to poison the Flind. *headdesk 2x combob*
I do eventually kill it for a Detect Invisibilty scroll and 120 exp. THAT WAS NOT WORTH 300 GOLD. And of course Mellicamp fails his constitution check on top of all this.
THIS IS WHY I PLAY FIGHTERS. I'm actually heading back to Beregost to end the session, as I don't want to take on either the Hobgoblin Trio Of Doom and Despair or Bassilus after that fiasco, but the southern border is closer and I know there will be more Flinds if I head to the eastern one. So, naturally, capping off this LOVELY misadventure is the spawning of a skeleton between me and the southern map border. This one skeleton makes me chew through two more potions. Yeah, we're done here. I drop extra gold for the poshest room in the place, which keeps my resting time down to 16 hours.
If it weren't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all.
The wagons and horses were long gone when we started the trek back to Baldurs Gate. And to make things just that bit more difficult, the heat wave broke. We slogged on through the rain, first Nashkel, then Beregost, the FAI, finally arriving at Baldurs Gate once more.
So many tasks people had asked us to help with and nobody really wanted to do any of them. So I set out on my own, leaving the others to their own devices at the Elfsong. First stop, cashing in a favour at the temple to retrieve the boy's body. But I was too late, the father couldn't resurrect him, that was hard to accept and I blamed myself. We could have done this before Durlags but I didn't realise (suppose I should have but we'd used the temples so much it had become routine).
Better news saving the nymph, the mage let her go without a fight and I got some hair as a reward (thanks, not weird at all). Got the skull and lifted the curse off of Ghorak (not sure he deserved it having killed his brother and all). Found Euric for his mother and delieved the amulet, got the cat ring for Petrine. Euric wouldn't go home, Petrine had been kicked out, life really sucks sometimes. Delievered some lost gauntlets, killed an ogre in an inn (as you do!!, talk about a rough crowd), and dropped off the pin we had found near Beregost to the Silvershield estate.
Exhausted I made my way back to the Elfsong to find my companions.
The next day much the same but I coerced Edwin into coming along, too many magic users around . He grumbled a lot, but cheered up when we stormed the tower of Ramazith and he could fling spells around. Didn't even complain too much when we braved the sewers and took down an ogre mage. Edwin's an odd one, total failure as a decent human being. But the magic, utterly focused. You can forgive a lot for that power at your disposal.
We checked out the Seven Suns as requested by the FF chief Scar, dopplegangers. We bumped into the hunting lodge chap and investigated his problems, more dopplegangers. Beginning to get paranoid here, had they followed us from Durlags? Was everybody in Baldurs Gate a doppleganger? Was I a doppleganger? How do you tell? Check the teeth, what? Time to call it a day.
After my efforts round the city, we now had official leave to check out the Iron Throne building, find out what we can about what they were up to. From a Duke no less, I'm moving up in the world. So after a few more jobs around the city with everybody on board, we headed to the imposing IT building to meet the IT Crowd (there's a joke there somewhere, damned if I can find it).
The place had the worst security you can imagine, we tricked our way past the guards and made our way to the upper floor where we hoped to find Reiltor. Instead we found his subordinates and they were not very co operative to put it mildly. Had the obligitory, "I'm going to kill you", "no, I'm going to kill you first" speech and then ran downstairs. Got ourselves much better prepared, and stormed the top floor from both staircases.
On one side Branwyn, Viconia, Edwin, respectively throwing oils of burning and fireballs. Kivan and me on the other with arrows of detonation. That warmed things up nicely. Then retreat, rinse and repeat with Kivan on his own, first one side then the other. Only drawback was some invisible assasins following him down, nasty buggers. But we had summoned some skellies and kept moving so they eventually appeared when they tried an attack and we could take them down. (what I wouldn't do for a casting of true sight). When they were done, we all stormed up stairs to finish off whoever had survived Kivan's arrows.
We searched the place and picked up some letters, one from Rietar's son Sarevok, saying he had dealt with us personally. A deliberate lie, why would he do that?
Reported back to Duke Eltan that all the bigwigs had decamped to Candlekeep, what a strange coincidence, almost as if I was tied up in this all along. Whereupon he gave us a book for the entrance fee and told us to get going (is there no law enforcement at all in these parts other than random adventurers like ourselves? What do people pay their taxes for?)
So looks like I'm going home.
Journal of Dridersdoom
After returning Rufie to his owner I helped a dryad against some ruffians and rescued Drienne's cat. I then killed a couple of guys who were charging exhorbitnt fees for crossing a bridge and returned to the Carnival for some R & R. Upon heading south I came across an ambush and upon killing the hostile fighters Dorn joined up with me. We killed Kryll, picked up Samuel (literally) and went to the FAI where I dropped of Dorn temporarilly. He warned me not to make a habit of it.I then left Samuel at the inn.
To this point no difficult fights.
Tig-6,
A good start,I lost Imoen to the wizards and pinched a ring from the store without upsetting the bodyguards... a hard battle rescued Viconia, then we exited the city and went looking for a wild mage.
Armed with the book given to us by the Duke, we set off towards Candlekeep stopping at the FAI. And here I faced my first mutiny. Edwin refused to budge unless he was given time to study it.
"It's a "History of the Nether Scrolls"
"But it's indicipherable"
"Just because something is beyond the scope of your intellect, do not assume that I am that limited (surrounded by idiots)"
"You can't read it either. So what's it about then"
"It's a history"
"Well yeah, it says that in the title"
"It could hold invaluable insights and map the road to immeasurable power"
"Could?"
"Be thankful that I don't simply murder you all and steal it"
"Edwin for all your threats, you have achieved a lot of power travelling with me, all the scrolls, wands, magical bits and pieces (not that you can ever recognise them)"
"Is it my fault I travel with the uneducated who can make no use of what we find? But nonetheless, you have a point, very well, no murder but you will give me some time. I am convinced this book will lead to life changing consequences"
Impasse, and truth be told, I was nervous myself about returning to Candlekeep, so much had changed, I had changed. So we compromised, he had three days before we left for Candlekeep.
On the second day Coran turned up on his way to Baldurs Gate.
"So Coran, guess who I met in BG, a very nice lady with a half eleven baby, called Brielbara"
"A what, who?"
"The baby was very cute, little pointed ears, mother said something about being abandoned by her lover and then thrown out by her husband. Dreadful state of affairs"
"So where are you going?"
"Candlekeep"
"I always wanted to visit that great seat of learning"
Viconia was less than pleased.
"I cannot believe you are allowing that Darthiir to travel with us again"
"Aw come on Vicky"
"Don't call me that"
"Sorry, but you know I can't use my fingers properly at the moment since that injury, can't open doors or disarm traps. We need him"
"Such weakness, in Drow society you would be cast out to starve"
"Hmmm...so we have that in common at least. Can't you control him, train him, enslave him? Would have thought it was a piece of cake for you"
"Perhaps it would be amusing to practise some of the old techniques, a suitable punishment for one so lacking in proper respect. Very well, watch and learn".
I have to admit feeling the tiniest bit sorry for Coran. On the other hand, he was a complete letch, and unlike Edwin, pretended he wasn't, it was all "I'll love you forever". Hence poor Brielbara. Perhaps with Viconia's tender care he might come to appreciate her more?
I didn't need so many traveling to Candlekeep with me, so I asked Kivan and Branwyn if they would be prepared to wait for us. Actually they were delighted, Kivan wanted to show Branwyn the tree by High Hedge he thought of as home. And Branwyn wanted to get in some serious Tempus praising which she felt had been neglected recently. Though judging by the looks they kept sending each other, Tempus was going to have to take a back seat and cover his all seeing God eyes.
We set out for Candlekeep, separating at the crossroads, K and B carrying on down to Beregost where we had arranged to meet.
"So Edwin, diciphered the book"
"Enough for my purposes"
"So that's a 'not all of it' then"
"Shut up"
We were ambushed by a group of Ogre Magi, don't know why, perhaps they were passing?
But, lookie here OM, we can go invisible too. And we can throw cloudkill at you, suckers.
Apart from that, easy journey, and we confidently approached the gate warden to be allowed entry.
Journal of Dridersdoom
I headed south and was met by Zargos Flintblade, another assassin. As I was struggling in the fight I stepped inside a building hoping to hide, but was attacked by some war dogs. Fortunately I was not followed inside so I killed the dogs, poisoned my weapon, hid in shadows and went outside again. One blow was sufficient to end the assassins life.I returned to the Carnival to recover after which I returned and took on Greywolf. He too was tough, and what is more some xvarts aided him. Nevertheless I prevailed and once more went to the Carnival to recover.
I then returned and found the missing emeralds. At that point my reputation dropped, however I gave the stones to Oublek. I then charmed him to help in a fight against a baby wyvern. Sadly he died, but his help was invaluable and I didn't. I found not only the gems on his body, but a large amount of gold as well.
Clearly he had been somewhat dishonest in his dealings.
I was then accused of killing the boy's pet, but it all got sorted out in the end, to my satisfaction at least.
I was able to ease Bardolan's tension COMPLETELY. He was so delighted that he gave me a Meg Ryan impersonation.
I then pracised unlocking chests in the barracks but had enough wisdom not to open them.
After that I returned to High Hedge where I was able to find perdue's sword and get Mellicamp back into shape after which we had a romantic pic-nic together.
Whilst getting the sword, the gnolls hurt me badly.
I tried to help Bassilus, but he became hostile. My magical resistance meant that his spells were ineffective. However despite using potions he was getting the better of me in the fight, I therefore fled and recuperated in Beregost. Upon returning, he was also fully recovered but that was of little importance as I was able to backstab and thus kill him. Upon going to the temple for the reward I reached level 6.
After resting I killed two more hobgoblins and ghouls without any problem.
Heading south, I killed four half-ogres before going to an archaeologists dig where I helped Charleston thus gaining a reputation of 20. Time to do some shopping I think.
I bought some potions that would help in Durlag's Tower having heard that it is riddled with traps.
I found a tome and killed Kirinhale plus a number of ghasts. It was at this stage that I realised that I had failed to buy the necklace of missiles despite having sufficient funds.
Perhaps killing ankhegs would give sufficient experience to get to level 7. However I have no idea as to whether I can defeat them as I can't use my backstab ability on them. Perhaps fighting basilisks will work better. I will see how I manage in Durlag's before deciding.
EDIT
Killing two of the basilisks in Durlag's brought me to level 7 so I will now join up with some allies and dual class to a mage. (Possible for an elf with my set-up)
It was strange walking through the grounds once more, nothing looked changed, nothing affected, same people doing the same things, same Chants, . I felt both out of place and at home. You expect everything to change when so much has changed for yourself, it's a sobering thought when you realise the world doesn't revolve around you.
We settled in at the Inn, put up with Winthrop's feeble attempts at humour and discussed our next move. We'd already been warned the IT Crowd were here, having a meeting. We'd also been told that there was a visitor who looked shifty and a monk acting strangely.
"So here's the plan, I'll go have a chat with all my old friends, see what I can find out. Edwin, you go to the library, see if you can spot the shifty visitor. Viconia, you go and try and get some information from those here for the meeting. Coran, see what you can nick. We'll meet back here this evening."
So off I went, fetched Hull his sword, got some crossbow bolts for Fuller, killed some rats for Reevor, fetched a book for Phlydia, got an antidote for Dreppin and practised fighting with Jondalar (that last was a bit unfortunate, but I'm sure the priests will be able to reattach his head, they're very good).
Sometimes I feel like I'm caught in some never ending time loop where events keep repeating.......
We met back at the Inn to share information.
"Did you see the shifty visitor?"
"Yes, said his name was Koveras, very interested in what I was studying in the library. They have a surprisingly extensive "restricted" section.". Edwin blushed, "he gave me a ring, and asked me out, he's dreamy"
"Koveras, that's an odd name, almost as though it was made up", (I couldn't shake the feeling I was missing something important.)
"I spoke to the iblith as you instructed, though I fail to see what information I could have obtained without the proper incentives".
"You have your looks, your pretty face and never underestimate the importance of body language"
"When I can use whips, are you insane?"
Coran had been very quiet up to this point, nervously fiddling with a letter he had stolen.
"I found this in a chest, addressed to you".
I read the letter, then read it again. Well Gorion certainly kept that little nugget of tremendously important information to himself. Why didn't he tell me, it would have explained so much of what had been troubling me, the dreams, the powers, the urge to kill (which at that moment was focused heavily on Gorion had he not already been dead). I mean of all the inefficient ways to impart life changing info, leaving a lettter lying around on the off chance I might find it has to be up there.
Now he tells me to use the library to look up prophecies when I don't live here anymore, couldn't have suggested it when it was literally on my doorstep?
And Sarevok?
So wants to kill me, has been to Candlekeep and you didn't perhaps challenge him at the time?
Tell his Dad, get him grounded, give a warning his son is a psychopath?
I passed the letter to my companions, fearful of their reactions.
"Let me get this straight, your dead father was a God, you are half divine?"
"Seems that way, and there are others according to Alaundo"
"So I banged a half Goddess.....and a half God..........result," (careful Edwin, there are those who will be jealous of your prowess)
"It would have been better had the divinity come from your mother, males are inferior"
"He was the God of Murder"
"I was a high pristess of Lolth and now worship Shar, do you really expect me to hold that against you?"
"I never got a chance to bang you. You were male when we met"
Revelations out of the way and still reeling from the shock, we decided to retire for the night and face the IT Crowd the next day.
Trying to decide whether Dridersdoom will be more comfortable with other drow such as Vynd, Baeloth and Viconia or other good NPCs. In this set-up Jaheira is half drow so that would make up a five member team if I chose drow. I have virtually no experience with them though. That could be a good thing.
I think that I will start with Sirene and Gavin, do his quests, and go from there.