@CharlestonianTemplar Just wondering if there is a reason for the name Dispenser. Is it because he disposes of people, or is it something to do with the Despensers in the reign of Edward II or something else entirely such as dispensing justice?
@CharlestonianTemplar Just wondering if there is a reason for the name Dispenser. Is it because he disposes of people, or is it something to do with the Despensers in the reign of Edward II or something else entirely such as dispensing justice?
Hey pal, thanks for the question. I am a medieval church scholar, writing a thesis on the Knights Templar - in between playing Baldur's Gate.
Henry Dispenser, Bishop of Norwich, was known as the "Fighting Bishop." He was prominent in the beat down of the peasant's revolt during the reign of Richard II of England. He was a "vigorous & skillful soldier" a "soldier of Christ," and caught the eye of Pope Urban V who said he was a man that could "protect the interests of the church by his ability to proselytize w/ his sword as well as his sermons." Dan Jones, Summer of Blood: England's First Revolution.
I thought he was a perfect persona for a Cleric who pursues the "Holy Justice of Tyr."
Neera glowed as she prepared herself for another day of adventuring. Dispenser finally came to her the night before & she felt like a little girl this morning, tingling with excitement, ready to face a whole new world. She smiled, wondering if Dispenser was watching her as she slipped into her Robe on Invocation. She asked him for help w/ her Bracers of Defense AC5, to which he acquiesced, sharing a knowing smile with her as he secured the laces & tightened them around her delicate forearms. She rolled her eyes at him as she sat back down on her bed, packing her scrolls in her Black Scroll Case by importance – she was weird about packing them just so. She decided on Potions of Superior Healing & Clarity & a Scroll of Melf’s Meteor’s as her Ready Items. She picked up her Quarterstaff +2 making note that she was out of Throwing Daggers. She knew Dispenser did not like her charging into battle like a maniac - like a Wild Mage – but she also knew if she had them or not, there was something about fighting in melee alongside Isra, Saerileth & Yasraena (& Dispenser) that gave her a rush in a nutty sort of way. She sat toying w/ her Amulet of Protection +1 against her chest, when she suddenly realized she was staring @ Dispenser, quickly turning her eyes away. She saw Amber, the newest party member, a Tiefling Thief, & suddenly felt threatened. “Darn it.” Dispenser obviously liked Amber & was protective of her in battle. Sometimes they would talk alone & she wondered . . . “Stop Neera. You’re just being stupid. They just share a Tiefling heritage” She comforted herself remembering how quickly he dismissed Nalia, that other mage - whose keep he ruled as lord - when he saw her at the Copper Coronet just two weeks ago. “Lord Dispenser.” She liked the sound of that. She smiled, knowing she had a secret. Just then Dispenser called everyone together to give out morning instructions. She listened but not really. She realized she felt as is she was in another plane of existence watching the others. “Darn it Neera! Stop that,” she thought to herself. “Focus.”
The last couple of weeks were exhilarating. When they met again at the Copper Coronet, Dispenser needed coin & was looking for adventure. He found it. Both Paladins regularly used Detect Evil & the Coronet had plenty of evil patrons - & staff. Saerileth, w/ her magnetic personality approached several of them w/ the others close by, looking for evil to be thwarted. The proprietor, Lehtinan, provided plenty. He ran a brothel & sponsored gladiator fights for gambling – w/ slaves as gladiators. Investigation led to an entire slaver ring being run out of a dry-docked ship connected to the Coronet through the sewer system. They worked well as a team – although she thought Amber’s thieving skills were just okay. ☹ Once they were inside, Dispenser would not allow for a rest, lest the slavers have a chance to regroup. She saw Dispenser’s drive as he relentlessly kept the pressure up, driving through the tunnels off the Coronet & into the Slaver Stockade. Once they cleared the ship, he drove all of them hard on the way back through to get back into the tunnels & to the inn. Time was of the essence to Dispenser & he was right. Already having killed Captain Haegan, the lead slaver, several Slaver Guards, a number of Slaver Wizards & a Priest of Cyric, they were forced to battle a second Slaver Captain, another Slaver Wizard & more Slaver Guards who had already moved in behind them. The party was spent, but they won the battle & kept moving. She remembered that Amber had fallen next to her in the fight w// Captain Haegan’s men but Dispenser raised her immediately after they were victorious. She was not sure she was comfortable w/ that now. Earlier, Dispenser freed a gladiator, Hendak, who organized the other freed gladiators & took care of most of the rest of the fighting w/ the Copper Coronet Guards & bouncers before killing Lehtinan himself. By the time they were back in the inn, there were only a few guards left to dispose of w/ “righteous fury” or at least, that is the vernacular Saerileth used. She felt uncomfortable w/ all that ‘justice’ stuff, but Dispenser was @ the center of it all, so Neera resigned herself to her new circumstances. It did make her feel good, knowing that they have saved a little boy & two little girls, one from two Trolls. After all, Dispenser, all of them, aided her in helping the Wild Mages. This is who they were, who he is.
After the battles were over, true to form, they were mugged outside of the Coronet, & Amber was kidnapped by a rogue/wizard. Dispenser’s desire to rescue Amber was obvious – Neera chalked it up to their common heritage. The effort to save Amber made the assault on the slavers seem like a walk in the Wild Forest]/b]. Dispenser accepted a new hireling, Ashar, a female Half-Orc Barbarian, to help. Ashar had been a slave w/ Hendak & wanted to repay Dispenser for her release. Dispenser was good to hirelings, always buying them the best possible equipment to aid them & enhance their skills - & he always let them leave w/ it when he dismissed them. He is a good man. The foray into Amber’s kidnapping led them into the lair of a powerful, very powerful mage named ]Ymmyrt. Ymmrt’s Guards were tough & skilled & a Chasme Demon, guarded entrance to his laboratory. Yasraena destroyed the monster easily - Neera thought Yasraena the most lethal fighter she had ever seen. Dispenser pushed through Ymmrt’s defenses like heavy cavalry through peasant farmers. The battle w/ Ymmyrt, a 21st level Sorcerer was underwhelming. Soon they were back resting @ the Crooked Crane.
YASRAENA'S DEMON KILL
PARTY INFO
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Dispenser (leader), Neera (arcane support & traps), & Amber (rear guard & traps)
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 18 – Heroic) [+2 6k Temple of Ilmater, Destroyed slavers]
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/13 (HP 75) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Free Action, Negative Plane Protection, Defensive Harmony, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/11 (HP 85), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2 & Helm of Charm Protection w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Wyvern’s Tale +2, & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, THWS**); Abilities: Cure Disease, Detect Evil (14), Lay on Hands, Protection from Evil (11), Remove Fear (11); Skills: None: Spells: Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/13 (HP 102), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Girdle of Piercing, & Saerileth’s Holy Symbol w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (12), Remove Fear (12), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (15), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//12 (HP 108), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Bluntness w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***); Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Neera: CN Wild Mage/13 (HP 43) Robe of Invocation, Bracers of Defense AC6, Ring of Fire Resistance & Adoy’s Belt w/ Quarter Staff +2 & Throwing Darts (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Sling*); Abilities: Scribe Scrolls; Skills: None; Spells: Chain Lightning, Improved Haste, True Sight, Animate Dead, Breach, Chaos, Hold Monster, Minor Spell Turning, Confusion, Fire Shield (Blue), Fire Shield (Red), Otiluke’s resilient Sphere, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Haste, Hold Person, Melf’s Minute Meteors, Remove Magic, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Chaos Shield, Ghoul Touch, Invisibility, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Chaos Shield, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Stinking Cloud, Charm Person, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Magic Missile, Nahal’s Reckless Dweomer, Protection from Evil; (Adv AI) (nil)
NEERA CHARACTER RECORD
NEERA CURRENT INVENTORY
Amber: CG Fighter/Thief//6/12 (HP 81), Studded Leather, Buckler +2, Gillian’s Bracelet & Amber’s Earrings w/ Long Sword +2/+4 vs Evil (Daystar) & Spear +2* (Dagger**, Longbow**, Spear**, THWS*, SSS**); Abilities: Blinding Eye (3), Poison Weapon (2), Set Snare (3); Skills: OL 95, PP 41, FT 95, MS 147, HS 147, DI 65, ST 20, B/S x5 w/ Boots of Stealth & Masterbelt; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
A quick note to say my assassin Melif (using the Way of the Assassin kit) has made his way through BG1. Since he spent much of the game stealthing with the Cloak of Nondetection on it seemed inappropriate to post about him .
He's a rather antisocial character who was initially as happy to travel in Korax's company as anyone else's but repeated troubles with the Fist taught him the value of public relations. In the end he travelled with:
Moidre (Dwarven Defender)
Viconia (modified Monk, will just make her Dark Moon in BG2)
Quayle (Mage/ Thief, he died so many many times, even got disintegrated once)
Dave (Priest of Talos whose promises of good weather were much exaggerated.)
Safana (Trying out the Psionicist kit for fighters)
We took slightly fewer risks this run but there were of course a few scary moments. The most terrifying was when Bill the Ducal palace guard turned hostile with his fellow Fists in the area and I almost killed him without realising. He had to be charmed, and then wandered into the palace with us, even though with SR charm durations are drastically reduced... only for Sarevok to do me the favour of killing him. Cheers Binky!
Will skip SoD, as I am certain Melif would not be interested in joining up with the army, or even hanging around Baldur's Gate for long.
@CharlestonianTemplar Just wondering if there is a reason for the name Dispenser. Is it because he disposes of people, or is it something to do with the Despensers in the reign of Edward II or something else entirely such as dispensing justice?
Hey pal, thanks for the question. I am a medieval church scholar, writing a thesis on the Knights Templar - in between playing Baldur's Gate.
Henry Dispenser, Bishop of Norwich, was known as the "Fighting Bishop." He was prominent in the beat down of the peasant's revolt during the reign of Richard II of England. He was a "vigorous & skillful soldier" a "soldier of Christ," and caught the eye of Pope Urban V who said he was a man that could "protect the interests of the church by his ability to proselytize w/ his sword as well as his sermons." Dan Jones, Summer of Blood: England's First Revolution.
I thought he was a perfect persona for a Cleric who pursues the "Holy Justice of Tyr."
I'm glad that you clarified that one as another Despenser, Hugh Despenser has been described as "The greatest villain in the 14th century due to being involved in extortion and piracy."
Journal of Cyreta and the Cyricists
We were so relieved when we were able to recover from being poisoned when we killed Marek.
We were equally relieved when Vay-ya and then Yago fell after trying to kill us.
Then Oupaste asked us to seek out the Book of Unknowing:
We then returned to the Friendly Arms Inn to deliver a spell book to Ygnatz. However, we all came to the conclusion that we should kill him when he had paid us since he appeared to have expensive equipment:
We then delivered Ghaldehar's Boots to him.
After delivering some emeralds to Oublek, we "persuaded" him to help us fight a baby dragon.
Since he died, we were able to recover the emeralds.
Jet'Laya wasn't too happy about our actions since she is a cleric of Lathander. I however was pleased as we had reacquired the emeralds without breaking any laws.
We then tried to repair our relationship by helping her sister, but were horrified to discover that her sister had chosen lichdom. Whilst we are not particularly righteous body of adventurers, we were unanimous in deciding to kill her, and we even had the blessing of Jet'Laya.
We were then asked to fetch a cloak from Ice Island. In addition to the cloak we returned with plentious bounty.
We were then given very useful help when we took on a dragon. A real one on this occasion!! We so pleased to come out of the battle alive!
We were then given a decent mace for killing the undead and proceeded to do so by killing the Dark One!
Our next quest was to rescue a child who had been stolen. None of us like child molesters so we went to rescue it along with some more righteous help.
Cyric was charmed when he tried to open a chest. Fortunately, none of us was nearby at the time.
We eventually came upon Clairis who had stolen him. We were quite proud of ourselves to have killed her.
We were eventually able to return the baby.
Whilst returning we bumped into Narcillicus. He proved to be agressive and so had to kill him too.
At the lathander Temple we were then urged to help the Town of Restenford which we gid.
We were attacked by hosts of enemies, but it was only when druids and bandits teamed up that we had major problems:
When we left the temple we were accosted by a group of men who wanted some of our loot and believed like us that might is right. We proved to be right. This meant that we were able to sell their belongings which is just as well as we didn't have the gold to raise jet'Laya who was killed in the battle.
Afterwards we were quite rich even after paying the temple to raise her.
Otho then asked us to help his nephew, but sadly he was killed in the ensuing battle.
We are now about to look for the Stone of Askavar. EDIT In other games, I think that I will do the Secret of Bonehill before the Darkest Day. the balance of both quest will be better.
I think the Stone of Askavar would be better earlier too. I think that I will revert to playing good characters again. I feel more comfortable doing that.
[quote/] I'm glad that you clarified that one as another Despenser, Hugh Despenser has been described as "The greatest villain in the 14th century [/quote]
Yeah, Hugh Dispenser was a bad man. Ended up executed.
Yeah, Hugh Dispenser was a bad man. Ended up executed.
Not all those executed in that era were bad though. Some of my heroes were executed.
Just supporting the loser in the battle for the crown was enough to lose your head.
Similarly supporting a religious group out of favour with the current king/queen was dangerous.
Thomas Becket, John Wycliffe, Thomas Cranmer, Hugh Latimer, and Nicholas Ridley were all good men who just happened to be unpopular with the current monarch for opposing what they deemed to be wrong.
Having high principles is often costly, even today.
@Wise_Grimwald Henry II did not even order Becket's assassination - some of his knights just did it - they thought they were doing what the king wanted. Oh well, tough luck, Arch Bishop.
@Wise_Grimwald Henry II did not even order Becket's assassination - some of his knights just did it - they thought they were doing what the king wanted. Oh well, tough luck, Arch Bishop.
I was aware of that due to having a history teacher with a strong Christian faith. She ensured that we knew the importance of Christianity in the development of our attitudes, and the way that we are governed in the UK.
However the knights knew that he was unpopular with the king, even if the king wouldn't have had him assassinated. That particular king had more morals than a lot of them.
It was a tough time for kings too. A very violent era, but the same could be said for all eras. We humans are not very adapt at living at peace with each other. However, usually, but not always, democracy reduces internal violence within a country.
After a two week break, the Trio was back in action. A very productive session, as Coreranger and Defoe made it to level 6. On to the details:
We faced many ambushes. Defoe and Balsa like to run like cowards, but Coreranger stood his ground. And then after that, the others followed suit and destroyed most ambushes, which were quite a few this session.
Below gives you an idea how well our fights usually go:
Coreranger will typically scout, Balsa will silence/command/hold person, and Defoe distracts. This has worked well in every encounter so far. Forgot to mention Coreranger does considerable damage with his +1 composite bow. Some things done:
* Baslisks - we got a lot of levels here. No problems encountered. Balsa managed to silence Kirian's entire party. Unsruprisingly, this didn't didn't bode well for Kirian's party.
* Melicamp restored
* Bassilus destroyed. He managed to hold Defoe, but Bassilus couldn't finish off Defoe before Balsa and Coreranger killed their friend's attacker.
* Some Beregost quests done: Firebead, Karlat, Silke, Spiders and turning in Purdue's sword.
* Sirines destroyed. The Pirate Cave Sirines were bested with a clarity potion, and the other group we were able to use skeletons by that point.
* Doomsayer was doomed. Coreranger was using MM wand to speed up the kill, but his groupmates were doing some pretty decent damage as Doomsayer didn't last long. It's possible Coreranger's friends' strengh of 18/97 had something to do with that...
* Nashkel Mines problem solved. It's no surprise that silence made the encounter with Mulahey simple.
* Melium taken down - any one of the party members could have soloed him, but the 3 of us was way, way too much.
* Fire ring picked up, and Samuel returned to the FAI.
* Sendai and her archer buddies taken down, although not without Defoe taking loads of damage. Sometimes a job as Dwarven Defender is a thankless job. We did this mainly for Sendai's armor, the best one that Coreranger can use. Though he usually is at range and tries to be hidden most of the time, so hopefully he won't have to rely on his armor much.
* Ankhegs Farm cleared without incident. By this point, the party had decent armor and was doing loads of damage fast, so was pretty easy for our group. We continued on our way to Ulgoth's Beard, though not without taking a unplanned detour at a farm with zombies - we decided to clear out - pay wasn't good enough. At Ulgoth's Beard, got the standard goodies of greenstone amulet, cloak of displacement and martial staff, all for Coreranger - greedy bastard isn't he?
* We were running low on time, so sold the last of our junk, rested and will take on Durlag's next session.
Coreranger has a slight lead in kills, a little unexpected for BG 1, but perhaps not too surprising with his friends' high STR.
Coreranger will typically scout, Balsa will silence/command/hold person, and Defoe distracts. This has worked well in every encounter so far. Forgot to mention Coreranger does considerable damage with his +1 composite bow. Some things done:
* Baslisks - we got a lot of levels here. No problems encountered.
Balsa might argue about no problems being encountered with the basilisks . That was one encounter where Defoe's distraction proved ineffective. Faced with being attacked in melee by both a lesser and greater basilisk, he chose to run round while the others shot. However, the lesser basilisk soon responded by retreating before switching back to gazing - and its movement apparently took it far enough from Defoe to switch targets. Fortunately Defoe had earlier bought a stone to flesh scroll with the aim of reviving Tamah ...
Journal of Cyreta and the Cyricists
The sea charts to get to werewolf island were pickpocketted. After that the quest was remarkably easy until the final battle there where Jet'Laya was killed. Upon our return to the mainland Selaad Gan was invulnerable to ALL weapons including Balduran's Sword and Werebane. Also invulnerable to Melf's Minute meteor's. This caused me some concern. However I subsequently discovered that he was vulnerable to magic missiles and particularly to Chromatic Orb. At this stage, one of my mages was killed.
His invulnerability to Balduran's Sword means that I won't be able to do this quest without a magic user in the party. At least I discovered the bug when I DID have a magic user in the party.
BGII:SoA - Chapter III, Kangaxx and an ioun stone.
We had an hour to kill or be killed. Our starting point was next to Sister Garlena at Watchers Keep, and Droch is trying to remember that at some point he really needs to cross-skill and pick up the Firetooth crossbow. Not today though.
Our first task is to devise a way for Painter to grab the ring of Gaxx. A simple plan ensues, whereby we pick up four protection from undead scrolls (this is overkill, see later), head into the temple sewers and purchase some strength potions from Roger. That should be enough of a plan so we crack on.
The first lich in the old tunnels under the sewer district is unable to stare past two of the protection from undead scrolls so we destroy it and move on.
A lich near the City Gates has the same problem, and a potion of storm giant strength used to access his lair also proves enough to bash a chest and obtain the Daystar longsword.
A lich in the Bridge District confirms our scrolls are working nicely - and a short discussion on whether Painter could survive a petrification trapped door on the way in becomes a moot point when we realise we must have opened it last time.
On to Kangaxx then. Droch scolds Painter for being impatient and starting dialogue while Droch is delving into his scroll case. Droch hands Painter a second protection from undead scroll and we use that to avoid the multiplayer area transition effect that removes protection from clients while leaving their portrait icons alone. So we used three of the four scrolls and after dealing with Kangaxx we get to experiment with his demi-lich form.
Painter sighs as his Foebane sword bounces off the demi-lich harmlessly. Inspection with the Glasses of Identification later confirms it is +6 damage to undead but only +3 to hit. He equips the Daystar longsword and despite a lack of proficiency hacks away at Kangaxx. Droch is using Usuno's Blade +4 to help a bit, but not much. But a bit. But not much. Anyway, the ring is going to be ours.
Sure enough, Painter soon has finger protection of unheralded proportions and we start to plan our next act. A quick check of gear suggests Painter could purchase Azuredge and that leads to a thought that we may as well just go and grab the Mace of Disruption. We spoke to Sir Sarles on a previous episode so just have to track down the ore merchant. We do that and take a not so cheap alloy as well as securing some real illithium too. Sir Sarles is given the alloy and retires in a huff so we hand the alloy over to the temple of Helm instead.
With the illithium in our hands we set off to grab the mace. Of course, henchmen try their best to stop us, causing a brief delay as we deal with them in the only way we know how.
Their tactics work though, and although we have dealt with Mook's attacker we are sidetracked and forget to track down a pair of traitors. Instead we pick up a stuffed bear in the Copper Coronet and return it to the spirit of Wellyn in the graveyard. Then against our better judgement we help re-home an orphaned girl with a travelling knight - let's hope it is second time lucky there.
Back to the mace. Sort of. We venture down into the lower levels of the graveyard and pick up Kitthix the spider figurine and an ioun stone to help Painter improve his THAC0 (like he needed that haha).
We end the session there.
Although I should mention we have sorted out the Fallen Paladins - their attacks briefly abated as we wandered into Neera's cutscene but fortunately no attacks continued. Droch has wasted two sets of ammunition when he switched from unlimited +1 arrows to 3x +2 arrows and 40x normal arrows. We've also agreed to look into the kidnapping of Tirdir and Painter has picked up a spare head in case his becomes too damaged at any point (evidence below).
Dispenser needed more muscle & he knew it. Although he preferred traveling w/ Amber & Neera, he wanted the added muscle of Keldorn’s sword & his powerful Dispel Magic, especially considering that they were likely to be battling mages in the days ahead. Nalia was an adequate rogue where he needed her most, finding traps & opening locks, & she was every bit as good as Neera as a mage – without the potential side-effects of wild magic. He was getting two for one in a way. He did it quickly, bringing back Nalia & dismissing both Amber & Neera at the same time. Then he travelled to the High Hall of the Radiant Heart to bring Keldorn back into service. He was ready to meet Aran Linvail, rescue Imoen & get her out of harm's way.
He needed Yasraena lethal blade(s), and so he stopped everything to rescue her from elves of Suldanessellar when they temporarily took her captive for the murder of Divalier, her mentor & love. Securing a glowing ring that proved that Divalier still lived quickly gained her release.
Earlier, meeting w/ Valen’s mistress, Bodhi, he quickly realized that an alliance w/ her was unacceptable. Had he not known for himself, the protests from his retinue would undoubtedly have been enough to convince him. Next, he met w/ Aran Linvail, the leader of the Shadow Thieves, & consented to the assistance of the lesser of the two evils. He had to rescue Imoen & had no alternatives. To gain Aran’s help – in addition to 15000 gps - he undertook a mission to investigate some difficuly the Shadow Thieves were having in the Docks District. Meeting Mook, a Shadow Thief, at night there to assist her led to a skirmish w/ a Vampire. The monster killed Mook, but Dispenser pounded him until he escaped in a mist. Returning to Aran to report on the events, he was annoyed to find that his efforts didn’t get him any closer to Imoen, instead, finding himself a short time later in the lair of the Vampiress, Bodhi, beneath the Graveyard District. His party slashed their way through vampires, spiders & other undead until they finally met Bodhi herself, & beat her senseless. Once again, as w/ the vampire in the Docks District, she became a mist, & escaped his clutches at the last instant.
BODHI'S RETREAT
READY TO RESCUE IMOEN
Dispenser cleaned up one last loose end, assisting Gaelen in discovering the whereabouts of one of his fences, Arledrian, who had also gone to Bodhi’s Lair seeking vampires. He found them. They arrived at the last possible moment, w/ three fledgling vampires about to slaughter Arledrian. Gaelen rewared Dispenser handsomely for his efforts: a King’s Tear, a Star Sapphire, an Emerald, and a Diamond.
Aran finally paid off & chartered a ship for Dispenser & his entourage to take them to an island where the Cowled Wizards’ supposedly kept deviants, as they called them. The trip was uneventful, but the ship's captain betrayed them & upon offloading, three vampiresses’ attacked them, killing Keldorn before they died themselves. With Keldorn raised from the dead, they found themselves in a Pirate town, Brynnlaw, where Dispenser quickly located a Wardstone that allowed access to the Cowled Wizards’ asylum on the island.
WIZARD WITH A WARDSTONE
PARTY INFO
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Keldorn, Dispenser (leader), Nalia (arcane support & traps)
CURRENT DISPOSITION: Brynnlaw (Perth the Adepts home)
NEXT STEPS: Enter Spellhold
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 18 – Heroic)
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/14 (HP 77) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Earthquake, Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Defensive Harmony, Free Action, Negative Plane Protection, Restoration, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/12 (HP 88), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2, Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Piercing w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Wyvern’s Tale +2, & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, Axe*, THWS**); Abilities: Cure Disease, Detect Evil (14), Lay on Hands, Protection from Evil (11), Remove Fear (11); Skills: None: Spells: Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/14 (HP 105), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Belt of Inertial Barrier, & Saerileth’s Holy Symbol w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (12), Remove Fear (12), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (15), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//13 (HP 112), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Bluntness w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***); Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn: LG Paladin(Inquisitor)/10 (HP 99), Full Plate +1 (Plate of the Dark) w/ Two-Handed Sword +3 & Crossbow +3 (Necaradan’s Crossbow) w/ Gauntlet’s of Weapon Skill (Two-Handed Sword**, Long Sword**, Crossbow**, THWS*); Abilities: Detect Evil (11), Protection from Evil (9), Dispel Magic (3), True Sight (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (4)
Nalia: CG Mage/Thief//4/11 (HP 63), Necklace of Protection +1, Dusty Rose Ioun Stone, Cloak of Protection +1 & Amulet of Power, w/ Short Bow +2*, Rod of Smiting & Short Sword +1*; (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Dart*); Abilities: Set Snare, Scribe Scrolls; Skills: OL 60, PP 35, FT 80, MS 40, HS 30, DI 10, ST 5 of Non-detection; Spells: (w/ Ring of Acuity), Lower Resistance (3), Greater Malison, Secret Word, Stoneskin, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Spell Thrust, Knock, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Web, Blindness, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Identify; (Adv AI) (nil)
The NPCs below are not traveling w/ Dispenser at this time
Neera: CN Wild Mage/13 (HP 43) Robe of Invocation, Bracers of Defense AC6, Ring of Fire Resistance, Amulet of Power, & Adoy’s Belt w/ Quarter Staff +2 & Dagger +3 (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Sling*); Abilities: Scribe Scrolls; Skills: None; Spells: Chain Lightning, Improved Haste, True Sight, Animate Dead, Breach, Chaos, Hold Monster, Minor Spell Turning, Confusion, Fire Shield (Blue), Fire Shield (Red), Otiluke’s resilient Sphere, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Haste, Hold Person, Melf’s Minute Meteors, Remove Magic, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Chaos Shield, Ghoul Touch, Invisibility, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Chaos Shield, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Stinking Cloud, Charm Person, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Magic Missile, Nahal’s Reckless Dweomer, Protection from Evil; (Adv AI) (nil)
Amber: CG Fighter/Thief//6/16 (HP 83), Studded Leather, Buckler +2, Gillian’s Bracelet & Amber’s Earrings w/ Long Sword +2/+4 vs Evil (Daystar) & Dagger +3/+5 (Vampires, Silverblaze), (Dagger**, Longbow**, Spear**, THWS*, SSS**); Abilities: Blinding Eye (3), Contageous Eye, Poison Weapon (2), Set Snare (3); Skills: OL 105, PP 41, FT 110, MS 147, HS 147, DI 65, ST 20, B/S x5 w/ Boots of Stealth & Masterbelt; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Imoen was ready to join Dispenser again as soon as he rescued her from Irencus’ clutches, but she knew now he wouldn’t allow it. He blamed himself for almost losing her & he was adamant that her adventuring days were over. Imoen understood it was because he loved her, but it did not make her any less upset with him. When Dispenser found her, he gave her a staff & put her at the back of his party until he could get her out of Spellhold. She contributed by aiding in detecting & removing traps, but he did not want her doing anything else. The others, of whom she only knew Isra from their earlier travels, were on her side, but Dispenser would not be moved. She talked w/ Isra, who she battled side by side w/ near Baldur’s Gate on the Sword Coast, finding out that their trek through Spellhold was not nearly as challenging as she thought it would have been. She knew Dispenser would come for her, but she feared even he might not be up to the task – although at times she remembered that he always rose to the challenge & to underestimate him was folly. That is what kept her going. That & the thought that she might soon be traveling w/ him providing outstanding Thief-Adventurer support like she always did. Now it seemed the second part was not to be. He had a robust and well-rounded party & she knew her skills were somewhat redundant, although the little time she traveled w/ Nalia, she was sure her skills were far superior to the noblewoman.
After she found herself amongst Dispenser’s retinue again, they had to work their way through a maze that Bodhi thought would be their end. Time & again, Dispenser was up to whatever she threw at him, a Gauth, Golems, Trolls, an Ulitharid, Minotaurs, Yuan-ti, Yuan-ti mages, & vampires. None slowed down his relentless pursuit of an escape until finally, Bodhi herself, exasperated, decided to try Dispenser on for size. She quickly retreated in a mist after taking a brutal beating from all sides, unable (best Imoen could tell), to ever get in even one blow herself. She later learned this had happened before in Bodhi’s lair in Athkatla w/ the same result. Knowing that Bodhi communicated w/ Irenicus, Imoen wondered why she would have challenged Dispenser alone after learning that his party had done the same to the great mage himself. Regardless, they were soon free of the asylum & on an Island, Brynnlaw. She did not remember ever coming here – she must have been secreted straight to Spellhold when she first arrived. Once situated, Dispenser put her on the first vessel to Faerun while he & the others took care of some business. Despite his objections, Imoen told him she would stay at the Copper Coronet for awhile. She hoped he might get in a pinch & come for her sooner or later but, if nothing else, she wanted to be near her . . . brother, whatever he decided.
IRENICUS ON THE ROPES
IRENICUS WEASELS OUT
AFTERMATH
PARTY INFO
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Keldorn, Dispenser (leader), Nalia (arcane support & traps)
CURRENT DISPOSITION: In Brynnlaw, preparing to return to Faerun
NEXT STEPS: Return to Faerun, mission accomplished!
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 19– Heroic)
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/15 (HP 79) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Earthquake, Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Righteous Magic, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Defensive Harmony, Free Action, Restoration, Negative Plane Protection, Neutralize Poison, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/13 (HP 91), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2, Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Piercing w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Wyvern’s Tale +2, & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, Axe*, THWS**); Abilities: Remove Fear (13), Protection from Evil (13), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (16), Cure Disease; Skills: None: Spells: Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/14 (HP 105), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Belt of Inertial Barrier, & Saerileth’s Holy Symbol w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (12), Remove Fear (12), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (15), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//14 (HP 115), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Bluntness w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***) & Ring of Air Control; Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn: LG Paladin(Inquisitor)/10 (HP 99), Full Plate +1 (Plate of the Dark) w/ Two-Handed Sword +3 & Crossbow +3 (Necaradan’s Crossbow) w/ Gauntlet’s of Weapon Skill (Two-Handed Sword**, Long Sword**, Crossbow**, THWS*); Abilities: Detect Evil (11), Protection from Evil (9), Dispel Magic (3), True Sight (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (4)
Nalia: CG Mage/Thief//4/13 (HP 65), Necklace of Protection +1, Dusty Rose Ioun Stone, Cloak of Protection +1 & Amulet of Power, w/ Short Bow +2*, Clerics Staff +3; (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Dart*); Abilities: Set Snare, Scribe Scrolls; Skills: OL 60, PP 35, FT 80, MS 40, HS 30, DI 10, ST 5 of Non-detection; Spells: (w/ Ring of Acuity), Invisible Stalker, Summon Nishru, Animate Dead, Breach, Cloudkill, Lower Resistance, Fire Shield (Red), Greater Malison, Minor Sequencer, Spirit Armor, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Flame Arrow, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Spell Thrust, Aganazzar’s Scorcher, Knock, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Stinking Cloud, Web, Blindness, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Identify; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn thoroughly embraced the adventuring life of an active Paladin Inquisitor of Torm. Before he met Dispenser, he feared he would soon be relegated to be an administrator in the High Hall of the Radiant Heart. Being among the veteran’s, he had more flexibility than the younger knights, & so he seized on the opportunity to accompany Dispenser when it came. Dispenser’s reputation began to percolate around the city shortly after he uncovered the source of a series of murders in the Bridge District & later when he brought quick resolution to a hostage situation that occurred in a Circus Tent in Waukeen’s Promenade. Rumors about his generous giving to the Temples of Ilmater & Lathander (and Helm) only made Dispenser more famous, or infamous. Dispenser’s repute took a hit when onlookers witnessed one of his followers kill an innocent Halfling in the Bridge District, but veterans of medieval combat know that collateral damage is a part of battle. After all, mind altering mage & cleric spells are an inherent part of warfare. When Keldorn first heard Dispenser was in Athkatla & what he accomplished in Baldur’s Gate, putting down a hostile takeover of the ruling council & preventing a war there, he knew he wanted to travel w/ this man if ever his sword was needed. The fact that Dispenser surrounded himself w/ Paladin’s & good-aligned mages & rogues made him believe this man was special. He would later learn, this man was, in fact, a very special Tiefling.
Now a full-fledged member of Dispenser’s retinue, Keldorn felt pride taking part in bringing down Spellhold. They had little trouble doing so – the only casualties coming from one stubborn trap. They quickly convinced both Bodhi & Irenicus that their best bet was to run rather than endure another moment of their crushing blows & impactful spells. Even better, they freed several humanoids that were prisoners of the Cowled Wizards & put a particularly loathsome brothel that enlslaved its prostitutes out of business.
Despite the success, he was ready to go home to his wife & children after it was over – his days of adventuring, he decided were over. It was time to be a full time husband & father. When they finally arranged passage off the island, he thought he would soon be back in his manor in the Government District. Keldorn would inform Dispenser on the voyage home. But the same pirate that double-crossed Dispenser earlier did so again & his immediate plans quickly changed. Their pirate ship was the victim of piracy itself when a Githyanki vessel ran it down. Githyanki boarded forcefully, crossing over on a plank from their ship. When the same slimy pirate, Saemon Havarian, once again double-crossed them, a melee broke out w/ Dispenser & the pirate crew fighting Githyanky warriors & spellcasters. However, before the skirmish concluded, the ship listed to one side & was also boarded by Sahuagin. The Githyanky retreated to their ship & Dispenser was taken to a wateree Sahuagin settlement called the City of Caverns. A Sahuagin Royal High Priestess met Dispenser first, convinced he was the key to an old Sahuagin prophesy. Keldorn knew about the Sahuagin shark-god Sekolah she mentioned, & warned Dispenser about the evil race he was dealing with, to which his liege immediately chose to fight rather than serve an evil purpose. They found themselves stuck in the middle of a Sahuagin civil war of sorts, but the fishlike humanoids were no match for Dispenser & his followers. They tore through the city, requiring little rest, which they were able to take when needed in the rebel stronghold after wiping out its prior occupants.
An entrance to the Underdark, located in the rebel stronghold, served as the only exit. They would review spells, strategy & rest before using two magical ropes they secured to lower themselves into the heart of Toril.
FACING THE UNDERDARK
PARTY INFO
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Keldorn, Dispenser (leader), Nalia (arcane support & traps)
* Legend: DS = Disturb Sleep, RE = Random Encounter, SH = Spellhold, SC = Sahuagin City
LEVEL UP: None
CASUALTIES: None
NOTEWORTHY TREASURE: (Gold earned = ~ 349 gp)
Armor & weapons: Battle Axe +3 (Stonefire), Scimitar +3, Pixie Prick +3, Long Sword +2 (Ras, the Dancing Blade), Helm of Brilliance, Blade of the Vorpal Sword, Blade of the Equalizer
Gems/jewelry: Rogue Stone
]i]Potions[/i]: Extra Healing (3), Fire Giant Strength (3)
Scrolls: None of note
Wands: None of note
Misc & Artifacts: Boots of Etherealness, Silver Horn of Valhalla
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/15 (HP 79) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration & Boots of Etherealness w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Earthquake, Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Righteous Magic, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Defensive Harmony, Free Action, Restoration, Negative Plane Protection, Neutralize Poison, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/13 (HP 91), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2, Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Piercing w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Battle Axe +3 (Stonefire) & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, Axe*, THWS**); Abilities: Remove Fear (13), Protection from Evil (13), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (16), Cure Disease; Skills: None: Spells: Holy Smite, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/15 (HP 108), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Belt of Inertial Barrier, Saerileth’s Holy Symbol & Boots of Grounding w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (15), Remove Fear (15), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (18), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//14 (HP 115), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection, Girdle of Bluntness & Boots of the North w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***) & Ring of Air Control; Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn: LG Paladin(Inquisitor)/11 (HP 102), Full Plate +1 (Plate of the Dark) w/ Two-Handed Sword +3 & Crossbow +3 (Necaradan’s Crossbow) w/ Gauntlet’s of Weapon Skill (Two-Handed Sword**, Long Sword**, Crossbow**, THWS*); Abilities: Detect Evil (14), Protection from Evil (11), Dispel Magic (3), True Sight (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (4)
KELDORN NPC CHARACTER RECORD
KELDORN CURRENT INVENTORY
Nalia: CG Mage/Thief//4/13 (HP 65), Necklace of Protection +1, Dusty Rose Ioun Stone, Cloak of Protection +1 & Amulet of Power, w/ Short Bow +2*, Clerics Staff +3; (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Dart*); Abilities: Set Snare, Scribe Scrolls; Skills: OL 60, PP 35, FT 80, MS 40, HS 30, DI 10, ST 5 of Non-detection; Spells: (w/ Ring of Acuity), Invisible Stalker, Summon Nishru, Animate Dead, Breach, Cloudkill, Lower Resistance, Fire Shield (Red), Greater Malison, Minor Sequencer, Spirit Armor, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Flame Arrow, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Spell Thrust, Aganazzar’s Scorcher, Knock, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Stinking Cloud, Web, Blindness, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Identify; (Adv AI) (nil)
Journal of Cyreta and the Cyricists
We proceeded to do the Stone of Askavar quest to stop Bane being raised. I was surprised that Dorn didn't object as he is a worshipper of Bane.
We then headed for Balduran's Isle which was infested with werewolves and the like. Things went swimmingly until we returned to the mainland. On the mainland we discovered to our horror that Balduran's Sword and other weapons were ineffective against Selaad Gan. (mod conflict?) We had to kill him with magic, specificly magic missiles and chromatic orb.
We then dealt with the Greywolf clan and were happy to gain a point in intelligence..
Duke Eltan then asked me to solve various problems, but I eventually came to a dead end after solving some of them. Apparently a certain vital character only spawns after completing Durlag's Tower. I can't confirm that yet though.
We then decided to go to Candlekeep, but the tome for entrance was stolen and we were obliged to chase after it.
At first we assumed that reentering the nashkel Mines would be eassy since we had been there before. However we were almost killed and as a result we decided that "Slowly, slowly catchee monkey" was the best tactic.
It worked and eventually we reclaimed the tome.
We then went to Candlekeep which in comparison to the mines was very easy.
We were then whisked off to Restenford again to try and solve a murder.
Andreas was an Inquisitor and faithful follower of Torm. He served his god and his conscience, protected the weak, fought evil where he found it, paid his tithes, said his prayers, and never turned his back on his comrades or anyone in need of help.
When he was falsely accused of murdering the Iron Throne leaders in Candlekeep, he decided to take his comrades (Isra, Branwen, Minsk, Imoen and Dynaheir) to Ulgoth's Beard, where he was transported to an ice island, retrieved a cloak and came back, and then went to Durlag's Tower to retrieve a stolen dagger and rescue a young man, all the while making plans how he could clear his name of the false accusations.
He made his way past four warders and some evil doppelgangers impersonating Durlag and his family, only to be hacked to pieces moments later by Dwarven Doom Guards.
May he rest in peace.
(It was one of those stupid moments where three toons and their green circles merged into one, got stuck, couldn't draw back and that was it. Pity. Now I'm going to take a break, play some Neverwinter Nights, and then try SCS for the first time).
Commiserations on Andreas. Honestly, considering that's a bug introduced in the EEs, I'd have been OK with a reload.
Thank you.
But I would have remained with the feeling that maybe I would have been stuck anyway, and done things differently after a reload. It would have felt wrong.
When they get stuck like that, I wouldn't have any problems using ctrl J.
Having said that sqishy Npcs of mine have died due to that bug in my current game and I've lived with it.
I only survived because Charname was my tank.
When they get stuck like that, I wouldn't have any problems using ctrl J.
Having said that sqishy Npcs of mine have died due to that bug in my current game and I've lived with it.
I only survived because Charname was my tank.
I have never used the console before. I guess it's time to get used to it, because I'm starting to use more mods, so it's more likely that I'm going to encounter more bugs, too...
Comments
"Establishment where consultations and medical care are provided free of charge."
True, but nothing to do with the name of Charleston's character I believe.
Hey pal, thanks for the question. I am a medieval church scholar, writing a thesis on the Knights Templar - in between playing Baldur's Gate.
Henry Dispenser, Bishop of Norwich, was known as the "Fighting Bishop." He was prominent in the beat down of the peasant's revolt during the reign of Richard II of England. He was a "vigorous & skillful soldier" a "soldier of Christ," and caught the eye of Pope Urban V who said he was a man that could "protect the interests of the church by his ability to proselytize w/ his sword as well as his sermons." Dan Jones, Summer of Blood: England's First Revolution.
I thought he was a perfect persona for a Cleric who pursues the "Holy Justice of Tyr."
Neera glowed as she prepared herself for another day of adventuring. Dispenser finally came to her the night before & she felt like a little girl this morning, tingling with excitement, ready to face a whole new world. She smiled, wondering if Dispenser was watching her as she slipped into her Robe on Invocation. She asked him for help w/ her Bracers of Defense AC5, to which he acquiesced, sharing a knowing smile with her as he secured the laces & tightened them around her delicate forearms. She rolled her eyes at him as she sat back down on her bed, packing her scrolls in her Black Scroll Case by importance – she was weird about packing them just so. She decided on Potions of Superior Healing & Clarity & a Scroll of Melf’s Meteor’s as her Ready Items. She picked up her Quarterstaff +2 making note that she was out of Throwing Daggers. She knew Dispenser did not like her charging into battle like a maniac - like a Wild Mage – but she also knew if she had them or not, there was something about fighting in melee alongside Isra, Saerileth & Yasraena (& Dispenser) that gave her a rush in a nutty sort of way. She sat toying w/ her Amulet of Protection +1 against her chest, when she suddenly realized she was staring @ Dispenser, quickly turning her eyes away. She saw Amber, the newest party member, a Tiefling Thief, & suddenly felt threatened. “Darn it.” Dispenser obviously liked Amber & was protective of her in battle. Sometimes they would talk alone & she wondered . . . “Stop Neera. You’re just being stupid. They just share a Tiefling heritage” She comforted herself remembering how quickly he dismissed Nalia, that other mage - whose keep he ruled as lord - when he saw her at the Copper Coronet just two weeks ago. “Lord Dispenser.” She liked the sound of that. She smiled, knowing she had a secret. Just then Dispenser called everyone together to give out morning instructions. She listened but not really. She realized she felt as is she was in another plane of existence watching the others. “Darn it Neera! Stop that,” she thought to herself. “Focus.”
The last couple of weeks were exhilarating. When they met again at the Copper Coronet, Dispenser needed coin & was looking for adventure. He found it. Both Paladins regularly used Detect Evil & the Coronet had plenty of evil patrons - & staff. Saerileth, w/ her magnetic personality approached several of them w/ the others close by, looking for evil to be thwarted. The proprietor, Lehtinan, provided plenty. He ran a brothel & sponsored gladiator fights for gambling – w/ slaves as gladiators. Investigation led to an entire slaver ring being run out of a dry-docked ship connected to the Coronet through the sewer system. They worked well as a team – although she thought Amber’s thieving skills were just okay. ☹ Once they were inside, Dispenser would not allow for a rest, lest the slavers have a chance to regroup. She saw Dispenser’s drive as he relentlessly kept the pressure up, driving through the tunnels off the Coronet & into the Slaver Stockade. Once they cleared the ship, he drove all of them hard on the way back through to get back into the tunnels & to the inn. Time was of the essence to Dispenser & he was right. Already having killed Captain Haegan, the lead slaver, several Slaver Guards, a number of Slaver Wizards & a Priest of Cyric, they were forced to battle a second Slaver Captain, another Slaver Wizard & more Slaver Guards who had already moved in behind them. The party was spent, but they won the battle & kept moving. She remembered that Amber had fallen next to her in the fight w// Captain Haegan’s men but Dispenser raised her immediately after they were victorious. She was not sure she was comfortable w/ that now. Earlier, Dispenser freed a gladiator, Hendak, who organized the other freed gladiators & took care of most of the rest of the fighting w/ the Copper Coronet Guards & bouncers before killing Lehtinan himself. By the time they were back in the inn, there were only a few guards left to dispose of w/ “righteous fury” or at least, that is the vernacular Saerileth used. She felt uncomfortable w/ all that ‘justice’ stuff, but Dispenser was @ the center of it all, so Neera resigned herself to her new circumstances. It did make her feel good, knowing that they have saved a little boy & two little girls, one from two Trolls. After all, Dispenser, all of them, aided her in helping the Wild Mages. This is who they were, who he is.
After the battles were over, true to form, they were mugged outside of the Coronet, & Amber was kidnapped by a rogue/wizard. Dispenser’s desire to rescue Amber was obvious – Neera chalked it up to their common heritage. The effort to save Amber made the assault on the slavers seem like a walk in the Wild Forest]/b]. Dispenser accepted a new hireling, Ashar, a female Half-Orc Barbarian, to help. Ashar had been a slave w/ Hendak & wanted to repay Dispenser for her release. Dispenser was good to hirelings, always buying them the best possible equipment to aid them & enhance their skills - & he always let them leave w/ it when he dismissed them. He is a good man. The foray into Amber’s kidnapping led them into the lair of a powerful, very powerful mage named ]Ymmyrt. Ymmrt’s Guards were tough & skilled & a Chasme Demon, guarded entrance to his laboratory. Yasraena destroyed the monster easily - Neera thought Yasraena the most lethal fighter she had ever seen. Dispenser pushed through Ymmrt’s defenses like heavy cavalry through peasant farmers. The battle w/ Ymmyrt, a 21st level Sorcerer was underwhelming. Soon they were back resting @ the Crooked Crane.
YASRAENA'S DEMON KILL
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Dispenser (leader), Neera (arcane support & traps), & Amber (rear guard & traps)
MONSTERS DEFEATED (ordered alphabetically by value): * Ymmrt (21k – Ym), Ymmrt’s Demon (10k – Ym), Ymmyrt’s Lieutenant (8k – Ym), Greater Yuan-ti (5k – Ym), Otyugh (5k – CC), Umber Hulk (4k – Ym), Minotaur (3k – CC), Beastmaster (2k – CC), Copper Coronet Guards (2 @ 2k – CC), Mustard Jelly (2k - CC), Yuan-ti (2 @ 1500 - SS), Priest of Cyric (1.4k - SS), Slaver (1.4k – SS), Trolls (2 – SS), Grizzly Bear (1150 – CC), Copper Coronet Guards ( 2 @ 1k – CC), Carrion Crawler (975 – CC), Slaver Wizard (975 – SS), Winter Wolf (975 – CC), Ymmrt’s Guards (10 @ 975 – Ym), Slaver (725 – SS), Tabitha, Leopard (650 – CC), Captain Corin (580 – SS), Captain Haegan (580 - SS), Slaver (480 – SS), Slaver Wizards (3 @ 480 – SS), Baby Wyvern (450 – Ym), Hobgoblin Captain (2 @ 420 - CC), Panther (420 – CC), Slaver Guards (18 @ 420 – SS), Leopard (420 – CC), Black Bear (200 – CC), Aulava (Thief/1 @ 165 – CG), Tiiro (Thief/1 @ 165 – CG), Kobold Shaman (150 – CC), Slaver (110 – SS), Hobgoblin Elite (2 @ 95 – CC), Hobgoblin Archers (4 @ 35 – CC), Hobgoblin Shaman (3 @ 35 – CC), Hobgoblin Warrior (2 @ 35 – CC), Kobold Commando (2 @ 35 – CC), Slaver (20 – SS), Copper Coronet Guard (15 – CC), Mutated Gibberlings (2 @ 15 - CC), Kobolds (4 @ 7 – CC)
* Legend: BD = DS = Disturb Sleep, CC = Copper Coronet, CG = City Gates, RE = Random Encounter, SS = Slaver Stockade, Ym = Ymmrt’s Home
LEVEL UP: Dispenser, Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/13, Neera, Wild Mage/13
CASUALTIES: Amber (Slavers)
NOTEWORTHY TREASURE: (Gold earned = ~ 1697 gp)
Armor & weapons: Composite Longbows +1 (6), Short Bow +1, Short Sword
Gems/jewelry: None of note
Potions: Superior Healing (5), Extra Healing (15), Frost Giant Strength (2), Stone Giant Strength, Invulnerability
Scrolls: Breach, Lightning Bolt, Cure Serious Wounds (2), Melf’s Acid Arrow, Protection from Evil
Wands: Fear
Misc & Artifacts: Boots of Stealth, Abyssal Pipe, Ymmrt’s Cloak
BEST KILL:
1) Saerileth, Firkraag (64k exp)
2) Yasraena, Khalabaxin & Thaxll’ssillia (50k & 45k exp)
3) Isra, Unseeing Eye (30k exp)
4) Neera, Mustard Jelly (2000 exp)
5) Amber, Hobgoblin Captain (420 exp)
CURRENT DISPOSITION: Athkatla, Crooked Crane
NEXT STEPS: TBD, Meet w/ Valen’s Mistress
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 18 – Heroic) [+2 6k Temple of Ilmater, Destroyed slavers]
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/13 (HP 75) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Free Action, Negative Plane Protection, Defensive Harmony, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/11 (HP 85), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2 & Helm of Charm Protection w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Wyvern’s Tale +2, & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, THWS**); Abilities: Cure Disease, Detect Evil (14), Lay on Hands, Protection from Evil (11), Remove Fear (11); Skills: None: Spells: Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/13 (HP 102), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Girdle of Piercing, & Saerileth’s Holy Symbol w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (12), Remove Fear (12), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (15), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//12 (HP 108), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Bluntness w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***); Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Neera: CN Wild Mage/13 (HP 43) Robe of Invocation, Bracers of Defense AC6, Ring of Fire Resistance & Adoy’s Belt w/ Quarter Staff +2 & Throwing Darts (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Sling*); Abilities: Scribe Scrolls; Skills: None; Spells: Chain Lightning, Improved Haste, True Sight, Animate Dead, Breach, Chaos, Hold Monster, Minor Spell Turning, Confusion, Fire Shield (Blue), Fire Shield (Red), Otiluke’s resilient Sphere, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Haste, Hold Person, Melf’s Minute Meteors, Remove Magic, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Chaos Shield, Ghoul Touch, Invisibility, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Chaos Shield, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Stinking Cloud, Charm Person, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Magic Missile, Nahal’s Reckless Dweomer, Protection from Evil; (Adv AI) (nil)
NEERA CHARACTER RECORD
NEERA CURRENT INVENTORY
Amber: CG Fighter/Thief//6/12 (HP 81), Studded Leather, Buckler +2, Gillian’s Bracelet & Amber’s Earrings w/ Long Sword +2/+4 vs Evil (Daystar) & Spear +2* (Dagger**, Longbow**, Spear**, THWS*, SSS**); Abilities: Blinding Eye (3), Poison Weapon (2), Set Snare (3); Skills: OL 95, PP 41, FT 95, MS 147, HS 147, DI 65, ST 20, B/S x5 w/ Boots of Stealth & Masterbelt; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Ashar: CN Fighter (Barbarian)/9 (HP 119) Splint Mail w/Cloak of Protection +1 & Battle/Throwing Axe +3 (Rifthome Axe); Abilities: Barbarian Rage (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
MOD USED: Amber v5, Tyris Flare v8, Foundling v4.2, Pesty v3.1, Asher v1.12, Gavin v23, Sirene for BG2, Isra v3, Paina, Tashia v1.2, Vampire Tales, Ninde, Saerileth, Arath v4, Dace v5, Tsujatha, Kelsey v5, Keto v5, Sarah v5, Nathaniel v4.4, Iylos v2.6, Adrian v4.3, Naphele v2.5, Fade v5.5, Saradas Magiv v1.6, de’Arnice Romance v6, Unfinished Business v26, Plane Touched Races, Wheels of Prophecy v8.3, NPC Flirt v1.06, Romantic Encounters v14, Tweaks Anthology, Deities of Faerun, Song & Silence v9, Rogue Rebalancing v4.92, Wizard Slayer Rebalancing v1.14, SCS v32.7, Atweaks v4.53, Item Randomizer
(Current AI) (Chain of Command rank)
A quick note to say my assassin Melif (using the Way of the Assassin kit) has made his way through BG1. Since he spent much of the game stealthing with the Cloak of Nondetection on it seemed inappropriate to post about him
He's a rather antisocial character who was initially as happy to travel in Korax's company as anyone else's but repeated troubles with the Fist taught him the value of public relations. In the end he travelled with:
Moidre (Dwarven Defender)
Viconia (modified Monk, will just make her Dark Moon in BG2)
Quayle (Mage/ Thief, he died so many many times, even got disintegrated once)
Dave (Priest of Talos whose promises of good weather were much exaggerated.)
Safana (Trying out the Psionicist kit for fighters)
We took slightly fewer risks this run but there were of course a few scary moments. The most terrifying was when Bill the Ducal palace guard turned hostile with his fellow Fists in the area and I almost killed him without realising. He had to be charmed, and then wandered into the palace with us, even though with SR charm durations are drastically reduced... only for Sarevok to do me the favour of killing him. Cheers Binky!
Will skip SoD, as I am certain Melif would not be interested in joining up with the army, or even hanging around Baldur's Gate for long.
Dave utterly failing to live up to his promises...
Vicky punching someone so hard she breaks everything.
Sarevok dealing with Bill.
Melif's final stats, after guzzling all the tomes, but also enhanced by some items etc.
I'm glad that you clarified that one as another Despenser, Hugh Despenser has been described as "The greatest villain in the 14th century due to being involved in extortion and piracy."
https://www.historyhit.com/how-hugh-despenser-became-king-of-england-in-all-but-name/
Every family has its black sheep. In our recent family history there have been both missionaries and murderers.
We were so relieved when we were able to recover from being poisoned when we killed Marek.
Since he died, we were able to recover the emeralds.
We then tried to repair our relationship by helping her sister, but were horrified to discover that her sister had chosen lichdom. Whilst we are not particularly righteous body of adventurers, we were unanimous in deciding to kill her, and we even had the blessing of Jet'Laya.
We were then given a decent mace for killing the undead and proceeded to do so by killing the Dark One!
Cyric was charmed when he tried to open a chest. Fortunately, none of us was nearby at the time.
Afterwards we were quite rich even after paying the temple to raise her.
Otho then asked us to help his nephew, but sadly he was killed in the ensuing battle.
EDIT
In other games, I think that I will do the Secret of Bonehill before the Darkest Day. the balance of both quest will be better.
I think the Stone of Askavar would be better earlier too. I think that I will revert to playing good characters again. I feel more comfortable doing that.
Yeah, Hugh Dispenser was a bad man. Ended up executed.
Just supporting the loser in the battle for the crown was enough to lose your head.
Similarly supporting a religious group out of favour with the current king/queen was dangerous.
Thomas Becket, John Wycliffe, Thomas Cranmer, Hugh Latimer, and Nicholas Ridley were all good men who just happened to be unpopular with the current monarch for opposing what they deemed to be wrong.
Having high principles is often costly, even today.
However the knights knew that he was unpopular with the king, even if the king wouldn't have had him assassinated. That particular king had more morals than a lot of them.
It was a tough time for kings too. A very violent era, but the same could be said for all eras. We humans are not very adapt at living at peace with each other.
Coreranger - half-elf stalker, protaginst (corey_russell)
Balsa - dwarven fighter/cleric (gate70)
Defoe - dwarven defender (grond0)
After a two week break, the Trio was back in action. A very productive session, as Coreranger and Defoe made it to level 6. On to the details:
We faced many ambushes. Defoe and Balsa like to run like cowards, but Coreranger stood his ground. And then after that, the others followed suit and destroyed most ambushes, which were quite a few this session.
Below gives you an idea how well our fights usually go:
Coreranger will typically scout, Balsa will silence/command/hold person, and Defoe distracts. This has worked well in every encounter so far. Forgot to mention Coreranger does considerable damage with his +1 composite bow. Some things done:
* Baslisks - we got a lot of levels here. No problems encountered. Balsa managed to silence Kirian's entire party. Unsruprisingly, this didn't didn't bode well for Kirian's party.
* Melicamp restored
* Bassilus destroyed. He managed to hold Defoe, but Bassilus couldn't finish off Defoe before Balsa and Coreranger killed their friend's attacker.
* Some Beregost quests done: Firebead, Karlat, Silke, Spiders and turning in Purdue's sword.
* Sirines destroyed. The Pirate Cave Sirines were bested with a clarity potion, and the other group we were able to use skeletons by that point.
* Doomsayer was doomed. Coreranger was using MM wand to speed up the kill, but his groupmates were doing some pretty decent damage as Doomsayer didn't last long. It's possible Coreranger's friends' strengh of 18/97 had something to do with that...
* Nashkel Mines problem solved. It's no surprise that silence made the encounter with Mulahey simple.
* Melium taken down - any one of the party members could have soloed him, but the 3 of us was way, way too much.
* Fire ring picked up, and Samuel returned to the FAI.
* Sendai and her archer buddies taken down, although not without Defoe taking loads of damage. Sometimes a job as Dwarven Defender is a thankless job. We did this mainly for Sendai's armor, the best one that Coreranger can use. Though he usually is at range and tries to be hidden most of the time, so hopefully he won't have to rely on his armor much.
* Ankhegs Farm cleared without incident. By this point, the party had decent armor and was doing loads of damage fast, so was pretty easy for our group. We continued on our way to Ulgoth's Beard, though not without taking a unplanned detour at a farm with zombies - we decided to clear out - pay wasn't good enough. At Ulgoth's Beard, got the standard goodies of greenstone amulet, cloak of displacement and martial staff, all for Coreranger - greedy bastard isn't he?
* We were running low on time, so sold the last of our junk, rested and will take on Durlag's next session.
Coreranger has a slight lead in kills, a little unexpected for BG 1, but perhaps not too surprising with his friends' high STR.
Balsa might argue about no problems being encountered with the basilisks
The sea charts to get to werewolf island were pickpocketted. After that the quest was remarkably easy until the final battle there where Jet'Laya was killed. Upon our return to the mainland Selaad Gan was invulnerable to ALL weapons including Balduran's Sword and Werebane.
His invulnerability to Balduran's Sword means that I won't be able to do this quest without a magic user in the party.
Droch (male elf archer, Gate70); Painter (male dwarf kensai, Grond0)
BGII:SoA - Chapter III, Kangaxx and an ioun stone.
We had an hour to kill or be killed. Our starting point was next to Sister Garlena at Watchers Keep, and Droch is trying to remember that at some point he really needs to cross-skill and pick up the Firetooth crossbow. Not today though.
Our first task is to devise a way for Painter to grab the ring of Gaxx. A simple plan ensues, whereby we pick up four protection from undead scrolls (this is overkill, see later), head into the temple sewers and purchase some strength potions from Roger. That should be enough of a plan so we crack on.
The first lich in the old tunnels under the sewer district is unable to stare past two of the protection from undead scrolls so we destroy it and move on.
A lich near the City Gates has the same problem, and a potion of storm giant strength used to access his lair also proves enough to bash a chest and obtain the Daystar longsword.
A lich in the Bridge District confirms our scrolls are working nicely - and a short discussion on whether Painter could survive a petrification trapped door on the way in becomes a moot point when we realise we must have opened it last time.
On to Kangaxx then. Droch scolds Painter for being impatient and starting dialogue while Droch is delving into his scroll case. Droch hands Painter a second protection from undead scroll and we use that to avoid the multiplayer area transition effect that removes protection from clients while leaving their portrait icons alone. So we used three of the four scrolls and after dealing with Kangaxx we get to experiment with his demi-lich form.
Painter sighs as his Foebane sword bounces off the demi-lich harmlessly. Inspection with the Glasses of Identification later confirms it is +6 damage to undead but only +3 to hit. He equips the Daystar longsword and despite a lack of proficiency hacks away at Kangaxx. Droch is using Usuno's Blade +4 to help a bit, but not much. But a bit. But not much. Anyway, the ring is going to be ours.
With the illithium in our hands we set off to grab the mace. Of course, henchmen try their best to stop us, causing a brief delay as we deal with them in the only way we know how.
Back to the mace. Sort of. We venture down into the lower levels of the graveyard and pick up Kitthix the spider figurine and an ioun stone to help Painter improve his THAC0 (like he needed that haha).
Although I should mention we have sorted out the Fallen Paladins - their attacks briefly abated as we wandered into Neera's cutscene but fortunately no attacks continued. Droch has wasted two sets of ammunition when he switched from unlimited +1 arrows to 3x +2 arrows and 40x normal arrows. We've also agreed to look into the kidnapping of Tirdir and Painter has picked up a spare head in case his becomes too damaged at any point (evidence below).
Where is this dragon located? I don't think I am familiar w/ a dragon in BG1, am I?
Dispenser needed more muscle & he knew it. Although he preferred traveling w/ Amber & Neera, he wanted the added muscle of Keldorn’s sword & his powerful Dispel Magic, especially considering that they were likely to be battling mages in the days ahead. Nalia was an adequate rogue where he needed her most, finding traps & opening locks, & she was every bit as good as Neera as a mage – without the potential side-effects of wild magic. He was getting two for one in a way. He did it quickly, bringing back Nalia & dismissing both Amber & Neera at the same time. Then he travelled to the High Hall of the Radiant Heart to bring Keldorn back into service. He was ready to meet Aran Linvail, rescue Imoen & get her out of harm's way.
He needed Yasraena lethal blade(s), and so he stopped everything to rescue her from elves of Suldanessellar when they temporarily took her captive for the murder of Divalier, her mentor & love. Securing a glowing ring that proved that Divalier still lived quickly gained her release.
Earlier, meeting w/ Valen’s mistress, Bodhi, he quickly realized that an alliance w/ her was unacceptable. Had he not known for himself, the protests from his retinue would undoubtedly have been enough to convince him. Next, he met w/ Aran Linvail, the leader of the Shadow Thieves, & consented to the assistance of the lesser of the two evils. He had to rescue Imoen & had no alternatives. To gain Aran’s help – in addition to 15000 gps - he undertook a mission to investigate some difficuly the Shadow Thieves were having in the Docks District. Meeting Mook, a Shadow Thief, at night there to assist her led to a skirmish w/ a Vampire. The monster killed Mook, but Dispenser pounded him until he escaped in a mist. Returning to Aran to report on the events, he was annoyed to find that his efforts didn’t get him any closer to Imoen, instead, finding himself a short time later in the lair of the Vampiress, Bodhi, beneath the Graveyard District. His party slashed their way through vampires, spiders & other undead until they finally met Bodhi herself, & beat her senseless. Once again, as w/ the vampire in the Docks District, she became a mist, & escaped his clutches at the last instant.
BODHI'S RETREAT
READY TO RESCUE IMOEN
Dispenser cleaned up one last loose end, assisting Gaelen in discovering the whereabouts of one of his fences, Arledrian, who had also gone to Bodhi’s Lair seeking vampires. He found them. They arrived at the last possible moment, w/ three fledgling vampires about to slaughter Arledrian. Gaelen rewared Dispenser handsomely for his efforts: a King’s Tear, a Star Sapphire, an Emerald, and a Diamond.
Aran finally paid off & chartered a ship for Dispenser & his entourage to take them to an island where the Cowled Wizards’ supposedly kept deviants, as they called them. The trip was uneventful, but the ship's captain betrayed them & upon offloading, three vampiresses’ attacked them, killing Keldorn before they died themselves. With Keldorn raised from the dead, they found themselves in a Pirate town, Brynnlaw, where Dispenser quickly located a Wardstone that allowed access to the Cowled Wizards’ asylum on the island.
WIZARD WITH A WARDSTONE
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Keldorn, Dispenser (leader), Nalia (arcane support & traps)
MONSTERS DEFEATED (ordered alphabetically by value): * Perth the Adept (Mage/Invoker//20 @ Br), Durst (BL), Lassal (BL), Tanova (BL), Vampires (3 @ BL), Del (Br), Fledgling Vampires (9 @ BL), Parisa (Br), Valen (Br), Clay Golem (BL), Vadek (Mage/Conjuror//14 @ Br), Grimwarders (8 @ BL), Guard Capt (Fighter/14 @ Br), Guard (Fighter/12 @ Br), Galvena (Fighter/7 @ Br), Skeleton Warriors (2/2 @ BL/GD), Greyhand (Fighter/Cleric//11/1 @ Br), Camitis (Fighter/12 @ BD), Ghoul Lords (4 @ BL), Mummies (2 @ BL), Specter (BL), Guard (Fighter/12 @ Br), Sword Spiders (8 @ BL), Wraiths (2 @ BL), Caehan (Fighter/10 @ BF), Guild Contact (Fighter/10 @ BF), Jaylos (Thief/10 @ BF), Phase Spiders (6 @ BL), Wight (BL), Wraith Spider (BL), Reti (Fighter/8 @ BD), Chremy (Thief/1 @ Br), Mugger (3/1 @ RE/DD//RE/BD), Ruffian Captain (3/1 @ RE/DD//RE/BD), Assassin (Thief/Swashbuckler (BL), Ettercaps (2 @ BL), Ghasts (4 @ BL), Pirate (Fighter/7 @ Br), Front (Fighter/Mage//9/9 @ Br), Giant Spider (5 @ BL), Shadows (2 @ BL), Ogre (RE/Sl), Thugs (6/2 @ RE/DD//RE/BD), Dire Wolves (3 @ BL), Shady Character (RE/Sl), Zombie (BL), Spiders (16 @ BL), Giant Rats (7 @ BL)
* Legend: BL = Bodhi’s Lair, BF = Bridge District/Five Flagon Inn, Br = Brynnlaw, DS = Disturb Sleep, DD – Docks District, GD = Graveyard District, RE = Random Encounter, Sl = Slums
LEVEL UP: Yasraena, Fighter/13, Dispenser, Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/14, Isra, Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/12, Saerileth, Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/14, Amber, Fighter/Thief//6/16
CASUALTIES: Amber (Mugger Captain)
NOTEWORTHY TREASURE: (Gold earned = ~ 968 gp)
Armor & weapons: Dagger +3/+5 vs. Vampires (Silverblaze), Two-Handed Sword +2, Two-Handed Swords +1 (2)
Gems/jewelry: Kings Tear, Star Sapphire, Emerald, Diamond, Pearl Necklaces (2), Moonbar Gem, Sphene Gem
Potions: Extra Healing (6), Invulnerability (2)
Scrolls: Maze, Cloudkill, Lower Resistance, Hold Monster
Wands: Magic Missile
Misc & Artifacts: Belt of Inertial Barrier
BEST KILL:
1) Saerileth, Firkraag (64k exp)
2) Yasraena, Khalabaxin & Thaxll’ssillia (50k & 45k exp)
3) Isra, Unseeing Eye (30k exp)
4) Keldorn, Adamantite Golem (25k exp)
5) Nalia, Clay Golem (8000 exp)
CURRENT DISPOSITION: Brynnlaw (Perth the Adepts home)
NEXT STEPS: Enter Spellhold
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 18 – Heroic)
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/14 (HP 77) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Earthquake, Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Defensive Harmony, Free Action, Negative Plane Protection, Restoration, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/12 (HP 88), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2, Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Piercing w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Wyvern’s Tale +2, & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, Axe*, THWS**); Abilities: Cure Disease, Detect Evil (14), Lay on Hands, Protection from Evil (11), Remove Fear (11); Skills: None: Spells: Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/14 (HP 105), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Belt of Inertial Barrier, & Saerileth’s Holy Symbol w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (12), Remove Fear (12), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (15), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//13 (HP 112), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Bluntness w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***); Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn: LG Paladin(Inquisitor)/10 (HP 99), Full Plate +1 (Plate of the Dark) w/ Two-Handed Sword +3 & Crossbow +3 (Necaradan’s Crossbow) w/ Gauntlet’s of Weapon Skill (Two-Handed Sword**, Long Sword**, Crossbow**, THWS*); Abilities: Detect Evil (11), Protection from Evil (9), Dispel Magic (3), True Sight (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (4)
Nalia: CG Mage/Thief//4/11 (HP 63), Necklace of Protection +1, Dusty Rose Ioun Stone, Cloak of Protection +1 & Amulet of Power, w/ Short Bow +2*, Rod of Smiting & Short Sword +1*; (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Dart*); Abilities: Set Snare, Scribe Scrolls; Skills: OL 60, PP 35, FT 80, MS 40, HS 30, DI 10, ST 5 of Non-detection; Spells: (w/ Ring of Acuity), Lower Resistance (3), Greater Malison, Secret Word, Stoneskin, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Spell Thrust, Knock, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Web, Blindness, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Identify; (Adv AI) (nil)
The NPCs below are not traveling w/ Dispenser at this time
Neera: CN Wild Mage/13 (HP 43) Robe of Invocation, Bracers of Defense AC6, Ring of Fire Resistance, Amulet of Power, & Adoy’s Belt w/ Quarter Staff +2 & Dagger +3 (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Sling*); Abilities: Scribe Scrolls; Skills: None; Spells: Chain Lightning, Improved Haste, True Sight, Animate Dead, Breach, Chaos, Hold Monster, Minor Spell Turning, Confusion, Fire Shield (Blue), Fire Shield (Red), Otiluke’s resilient Sphere, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Fireball, Haste, Hold Person, Melf’s Minute Meteors, Remove Magic, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Chaos Shield, Ghoul Touch, Invisibility, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Chaos Shield, Agannazar’s Scorcher, Stinking Cloud, Charm Person, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Magic Missile, Nahal’s Reckless Dweomer, Protection from Evil; (Adv AI) (nil)
Amber: CG Fighter/Thief//6/16 (HP 83), Studded Leather, Buckler +2, Gillian’s Bracelet & Amber’s Earrings w/ Long Sword +2/+4 vs Evil (Daystar) & Dagger +3/+5 (Vampires, Silverblaze), (Dagger**, Longbow**, Spear**, THWS*, SSS**); Abilities: Blinding Eye (3), Contageous Eye, Poison Weapon (2), Set Snare (3); Skills: OL 105, PP 41, FT 110, MS 147, HS 147, DI 65, ST 20, B/S x5 w/ Boots of Stealth & Masterbelt; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
MOD USED: Amber v5, Tyris Flare v8, Foundling v4.2, Pesty v3.1, Asher v1.12, Gavin v23, Sirene for BG2, Isra v3, Paina, Tashia v1.2, Vampire Tales, Ninde, Saerileth, Arath v4, Dace v5, Tsujatha, Kelsey v5, Keto v5, Sarah v5, Nathaniel v4.4, Iylos v2.6, Adrian v4.3, Naphele v2.5, Fade v5.5, Saradas Magiv v1.6, de’Arnice Romance v6, Unfinished Business v26, Plane Touched Races, Wheels of Prophecy v8.3, NPC Flirt v1.06, Romantic Encounters v14, Tweaks Anthology, Deities of Faerun, Song & Silence v9, Rogue Rebalancing v4.92, Wizard Slayer Rebalancing v1.14, SCS v32.7, Atweaks v4.53, Item Randomizer
(Current AI) (Chain of Command rank)
It is part of a mod "Dark Side of the Sword Coast" I think. In a cave to the South East of Nashkel (Near where you find Samuel)
Imoen was ready to join Dispenser again as soon as he rescued her from Irencus’ clutches, but she knew now he wouldn’t allow it. He blamed himself for almost losing her & he was adamant that her adventuring days were over. Imoen understood it was because he loved her, but it did not make her any less upset with him. When Dispenser found her, he gave her a staff & put her at the back of his party until he could get her out of Spellhold. She contributed by aiding in detecting & removing traps, but he did not want her doing anything else. The others, of whom she only knew Isra from their earlier travels, were on her side, but Dispenser would not be moved. She talked w/ Isra, who she battled side by side w/ near Baldur’s Gate on the Sword Coast, finding out that their trek through Spellhold was not nearly as challenging as she thought it would have been. She knew Dispenser would come for her, but she feared even he might not be up to the task – although at times she remembered that he always rose to the challenge & to underestimate him was folly. That is what kept her going. That & the thought that she might soon be traveling w/ him providing outstanding Thief-Adventurer support like she always did. Now it seemed the second part was not to be. He had a robust and well-rounded party & she knew her skills were somewhat redundant, although the little time she traveled w/ Nalia, she was sure her skills were far superior to the noblewoman.
After she found herself amongst Dispenser’s retinue again, they had to work their way through a maze that Bodhi thought would be their end. Time & again, Dispenser was up to whatever she threw at him, a Gauth, Golems, Trolls, an Ulitharid, Minotaurs, Yuan-ti, Yuan-ti mages, & vampires. None slowed down his relentless pursuit of an escape until finally, Bodhi herself, exasperated, decided to try Dispenser on for size. She quickly retreated in a mist after taking a brutal beating from all sides, unable (best Imoen could tell), to ever get in even one blow herself. She later learned this had happened before in Bodhi’s lair in Athkatla w/ the same result. Knowing that Bodhi communicated w/ Irenicus, Imoen wondered why she would have challenged Dispenser alone after learning that his party had done the same to the great mage himself. Regardless, they were soon free of the asylum & on an Island, Brynnlaw. She did not remember ever coming here – she must have been secreted straight to Spellhold when she first arrived. Once situated, Dispenser put her on the first vessel to Faerun while he & the others took care of some business. Despite his objections, Imoen told him she would stay at the Copper Coronet for awhile. She hoped he might get in a pinch & come for her sooner or later but, if nothing else, she wanted to be near her . . . brother, whatever he decided.
IRENICUS ON THE ROPES
IRENICUS WEASELS OUT
AFTERMATH
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Keldorn, Dispenser (leader), Nalia (arcane support & traps)
MONSTERS DEFEATED (ordered alphabetically by value): * Bone Golem (18k @ SH), Greater Mummy (14k @ SH), Spirit Troll (12k @ SH), Ulitharid (11k @ SH), Noble Djinni (10k @ SH), Umber Hulk (10k @ SH), Gauth (9k @ SH), Dace Sontan (Vampire @ 8.5k @ SH), Vampire (8.5k @ SH), Spirit Troll (8k @ SH), Air Elemental (7k @ SH), Ruhk (Raksasha 7k @ SH), Yuan-ti Mage (2 @ 7k @ SH), Skeleton Warriors (2 @ 4k @ SH), Umber Hulks (11 @ 4k @ SH), Spectral Troll (3.5k @ SH), Minotaur (9 @ 3k @ SH), Mummies (7 @ 3k @ SH), Sirine (5 @ 3k @ SH), Quasit (2k @ SH), Wraiths (3 @ 2k @ SH), Yuan-ti (9 @ 1.5k @ SH), Imps (2 @ 1.4k @ SH), Trolls (5 @ 1.4k @ SH), Troll Shaman (1.4k @ SH), Wolfwere (4 @ 1.4k @ SH), Ghast (650 @ SH), Air Mephits (2 @ 420 @ SH), Fire Mephit (420 @ SH), Mineral Mephits (2 @ Air Mephit (420 @ SH), 420 @ SH), Salt Mephit (420 @ SH), Shadows (2 @ 420 @ SH), Steam Mephit (420 @ SH), Kobold Guardian (450 @ SH), Spore Colony (420 @ SH), Kobold Guardian (400 @ SH), Kobold Witch Doctor (400 @ SH), Kobold Shaman (270 @ SH), Kobold Witch Doctor (65 @ SH), Goblin Commando (2 @ 35 @ SH), Mutated Gibberlings (16 @ 35 @ SH), Kobold Commando (9 @ 35 @ SH), Kobold Captain (15 @ SH), Kobold (15 @ SH), Kobolds (4 @ 7 @ SH)
* Legend: Br = Brynnlaw, DS = Disturb Sleep, RE = Random Encounter, SH = Spellhold
LEVEL UP: Yasraena, Fighter/14; Dispenser, Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/15; Isra, Paladin (Cavalier or Sune)/13; Nalia,
CASUALTIES: Imoen (2 - traps), Yasraena (trap)
NOTEWORTHY TREASURE: (Gold earned = ~ 3078 gp)
Armor & weapons: Bastard Sword +1/+3 vs. Shapeshifters (Kondar), Battle Axe +2
Gems/jewelry: Laeral’s Tear Necklace, Rogue Stone, Star Sapphires (2), Emerald, Diamond, Pearls (5)
Potions: None of note
Scrolls: Limited Wish, Ruby Ray of Reversal, Spell Sequencer, Pierce Shield, Mass Invisibility, Mordenkainen’s Sword
Wands: None of note
Misc & Artifacts: Cloak of the Stars, Methild’s Harp
BEST KILL:
1) Saerileth, Firkraag (64k exp)
2) Yasraena, Khalabaxin & Thaxll’ssillia (50k & 45k exp)
3) Isra, Unseeing Eye (30k exp)
4) Keldorn, Adamantite Golem (25k exp)
5) Nalia, Clay Golem (8000 exp)
CURRENT DISPOSITION: In Brynnlaw, preparing to return to Faerun
NEXT STEPS: Return to Faerun, mission accomplished!
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 19– Heroic)
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/15 (HP 79) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Earthquake, Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Righteous Magic, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Defensive Harmony, Free Action, Restoration, Negative Plane Protection, Neutralize Poison, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/13 (HP 91), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2, Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Piercing w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Wyvern’s Tale +2, & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, Axe*, THWS**); Abilities: Remove Fear (13), Protection from Evil (13), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (16), Cure Disease; Skills: None: Spells: Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/14 (HP 105), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Belt of Inertial Barrier, & Saerileth’s Holy Symbol w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (12), Remove Fear (12), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (15), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//14 (HP 115), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Bluntness w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***) & Ring of Air Control; Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn: LG Paladin(Inquisitor)/10 (HP 99), Full Plate +1 (Plate of the Dark) w/ Two-Handed Sword +3 & Crossbow +3 (Necaradan’s Crossbow) w/ Gauntlet’s of Weapon Skill (Two-Handed Sword**, Long Sword**, Crossbow**, THWS*); Abilities: Detect Evil (11), Protection from Evil (9), Dispel Magic (3), True Sight (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (4)
Nalia: CG Mage/Thief//4/13 (HP 65), Necklace of Protection +1, Dusty Rose Ioun Stone, Cloak of Protection +1 & Amulet of Power, w/ Short Bow +2*, Clerics Staff +3; (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Dart*); Abilities: Set Snare, Scribe Scrolls; Skills: OL 60, PP 35, FT 80, MS 40, HS 30, DI 10, ST 5 of Non-detection; Spells: (w/ Ring of Acuity), Invisible Stalker, Summon Nishru, Animate Dead, Breach, Cloudkill, Lower Resistance, Fire Shield (Red), Greater Malison, Minor Sequencer, Spirit Armor, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Flame Arrow, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Spell Thrust, Aganazzar’s Scorcher, Knock, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Stinking Cloud, Web, Blindness, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Identify; (Adv AI) (nil)
MOD USED: Amber v5, Tyris Flare v8, Foundling v4.2, Pesty v3.1, Asher v1.12, Gavin v23, Sirene for BG2, Isra v3, Paina, Tashia v1.2, Vampire Tales, Ninde, Saerileth, Arath v4, Dace v5, Tsujatha, Kelsey v5, Keto v5, Sarah v5, Nathaniel v4.4, Iylos v2.6, Adrian v4.3, Naphele v2.5, Fade v5.5, Saradas Magiv v1.6, de’Arnice Romance v6, Unfinished Business v26, Plane Touched Races, Wheels of Prophecy v8.3, NPC Flirt v1.06, Romantic Encounters v14, Tweaks Anthology, Deities of Faerun, Song & Silence v9, Rogue Rebalancing v4.92, Wizard Slayer Rebalancing v1.14, SCS v32.7, Atweaks v4.53, Item Randomizer
(Current AI) (Chain of Command rank)
Keldorn thoroughly embraced the adventuring life of an active Paladin Inquisitor of Torm. Before he met Dispenser, he feared he would soon be relegated to be an administrator in the High Hall of the Radiant Heart. Being among the veteran’s, he had more flexibility than the younger knights, & so he seized on the opportunity to accompany Dispenser when it came. Dispenser’s reputation began to percolate around the city shortly after he uncovered the source of a series of murders in the Bridge District & later when he brought quick resolution to a hostage situation that occurred in a Circus Tent in Waukeen’s Promenade. Rumors about his generous giving to the Temples of Ilmater & Lathander (and Helm) only made Dispenser more famous, or infamous. Dispenser’s repute took a hit when onlookers witnessed one of his followers kill an innocent Halfling in the Bridge District, but veterans of medieval combat know that collateral damage is a part of battle. After all, mind altering mage & cleric spells are an inherent part of warfare. When Keldorn first heard Dispenser was in Athkatla & what he accomplished in Baldur’s Gate, putting down a hostile takeover of the ruling council & preventing a war there, he knew he wanted to travel w/ this man if ever his sword was needed. The fact that Dispenser surrounded himself w/ Paladin’s & good-aligned mages & rogues made him believe this man was special. He would later learn, this man was, in fact, a very special Tiefling.
Now a full-fledged member of Dispenser’s retinue, Keldorn felt pride taking part in bringing down Spellhold. They had little trouble doing so – the only casualties coming from one stubborn trap. They quickly convinced both Bodhi & Irenicus that their best bet was to run rather than endure another moment of their crushing blows & impactful spells. Even better, they freed several humanoids that were prisoners of the Cowled Wizards & put a particularly loathsome brothel that enlslaved its prostitutes out of business.
Despite the success, he was ready to go home to his wife & children after it was over – his days of adventuring, he decided were over. It was time to be a full time husband & father. When they finally arranged passage off the island, he thought he would soon be back in his manor in the Government District. Keldorn would inform Dispenser on the voyage home. But the same pirate that double-crossed Dispenser earlier did so again & his immediate plans quickly changed. Their pirate ship was the victim of piracy itself when a Githyanki vessel ran it down. Githyanki boarded forcefully, crossing over on a plank from their ship. When the same slimy pirate, Saemon Havarian, once again double-crossed them, a melee broke out w/ Dispenser & the pirate crew fighting Githyanky warriors & spellcasters. However, before the skirmish concluded, the ship listed to one side & was also boarded by Sahuagin. The Githyanky retreated to their ship & Dispenser was taken to a wateree Sahuagin settlement called the City of Caverns. A Sahuagin Royal High Priestess met Dispenser first, convinced he was the key to an old Sahuagin prophesy. Keldorn knew about the Sahuagin shark-god Sekolah she mentioned, & warned Dispenser about the evil race he was dealing with, to which his liege immediately chose to fight rather than serve an evil purpose. They found themselves stuck in the middle of a Sahuagin civil war of sorts, but the fishlike humanoids were no match for Dispenser & his followers. They tore through the city, requiring little rest, which they were able to take when needed in the rebel stronghold after wiping out its prior occupants.
An entrance to the Underdark, located in the rebel stronghold, served as the only exit. They would review spells, strategy & rest before using two magical ropes they secured to lower themselves into the heart of Toril.
FACING THE UNDERDARK
ORDER OF MARCH: Yasraena, Saerileth, Isra, Keldorn, Dispenser (leader), Nalia (arcane support & traps)
MONSTERS DEFEATED (ordered alphabetically by value): * Bone Golem (18k @ SC), Sahuagin Priestess (8k @ SC), Sea Zombie Lord (6k @ SC), Ettin (5k @ SC), Royal High Priestess (5k @ SC), King Ixilthetocal (4k @ SC), Skeleton Warriors @ @ 4k @ SC), Spectator (Beholder 4k @ SC), Captain Alyittyl (975 @ SC), Greater Lacedon (2 @ 3k @ SC), Sahuagin (5 @ 3k @ SC), Sahuagin Rebel (17 @ 3k @ SC), Sahuagin Royal Guards (9 @ 3k @ SC), Priestess of Sekolah (2k @ SC), Prince Villynaly (2k @ SC), Sahuagin Rebel (2 @ 2k @ SC), Baron Thelokassyil (975 @ SC), Nereids (3 @ 975 @ SC), Sahuagin Chieftain (420 @ SC), Sea Zombie (2 @ 420 @ SC), Water Weirds (3 @ 420 @ SC), Captain Feerlattiys (270 @ SC), Lacedon (2 @ 175 @ SC), Sahuagin Rebels (4 @ 175 @ SC)
* Legend: DS = Disturb Sleep, RE = Random Encounter, SH = Spellhold, SC = Sahuagin City
LEVEL UP: None
CASUALTIES: None
NOTEWORTHY TREASURE: (Gold earned = ~ 349 gp)
Armor & weapons: Battle Axe +3 (Stonefire), Scimitar +3, Pixie Prick +3, Long Sword +2 (Ras, the Dancing Blade), Helm of Brilliance, Blade of the Vorpal Sword, Blade of the Equalizer
Gems/jewelry: Rogue Stone
]i]Potions[/i]: Extra Healing (3), Fire Giant Strength (3)
Scrolls: None of note
Wands: None of note
Misc & Artifacts: Boots of Etherealness, Silver Horn of Valhalla
BEST KILL:
1) Saerileth, Firkraag (64k exp)
2) Yasraena, Khalabaxin & Thaxll’ssillia (50k & 45k exp)
3) Isra, Unseeing Eye (30k exp)
4) Keldorn, Adamantite Golem (25k exp)
5) Nalia, Clay Golem (8000 exp)
CURRENT DISPOSITION:
NEXT STEPS: Decend into the Underdark
PARTY MAKEUP: (Reputation: 19 – Heroic)
Dispenser: LG Cleric (Holy Justice of Tyr)/15 (HP 79) Red Dragon Scale Plate, Large Shield +2, Helm of the Noble +1, Sensate Amulet, Gauntlets of Dexterity, Cloak of Balduran, Girdle of Hill Giant Strength, Rings of Fire Resistance & Regeneration & Boots of Etherealness w/ Long Sword +3 (Blade of Roses) & Flail of the Ages +3 (Acid, Cold, Fire), (Long Sword*, Warhammer*, Flail*, SWS*, SSS*); Abilities: Cure Affliction (2), Divine Might (2), Healing Touch (2), Hold person (2), Strength of One (2), Holy Word; Skills: None; Skills: None; Spells: Earthquake, Bolt of Glory, Heal, Greater Command, Raise Dead, Righteous Magic, Cause Serious Wounds, Cure Serious Wounds, Defensive Harmony, Free Action, Restoration, Negative Plane Protection, Neutralize Poison, Animate Dead, Cure Disease, Dispel Magic, Holy Smite, Invisibility Purge, Rigid Thinking, Zone of Sweet Air, Aid, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Hold Person, Resist Fire & Cold, Silence 15’, Slow Poison, Spiritual Hammer, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command, Cure Light Wounds, Doom, Protection from Evil, Remove Fear, Sanctuary; (Adv AI) (1)
Isra: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Sune)/13 (HP 91), Full Plate, Ghadir Family Ring, Painbearer’s Amulet, Cloak of the Shield, Ring of Protection +2, Helm of Charm Protection & Girdle of Piercing w/ Two-Handed Sword +5 (Carsomyr), Battle Axe +3 (Stonefire) & Gauntlet’s of Weapons Skill, (Two-Handed Sword**, Mace/Morning Star**, Axe*, THWS**); Abilities: Remove Fear (13), Protection from Evil (13), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (16), Cure Disease; Skills: None: Spells: Holy Smite, Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless; (Adv AI) (2)
Saerileth: LG Paladin (Cavalier of Tyr)/15 (HP 108), Full Plate +1, Large Shield +2, Cloak of the Shield, Periapt of Life Protection, Gloves of Healing, Belt of Inertial Barrier, Saerileth’s Holy Symbol & Boots of Grounding w/ Long Sword +2 (Adjatha the Drinker) & Warhammer +2 (Hammer of Tyr), (Bastard Sword**, Long Sword**, Warhammer**, SSS**); Abilities: Protection from Evil (15), Remove Fear (15), Lay on Hands, Detect Evil (18), Cure Disease; Skills: None; Spells: Chant, Draw on Holy Might, Armor of Faith, Bless, Command; (Adv AI) (3)
Yasraena: CG Fighter//14 (HP 115), Full Plate +2 (Pride of the Legion), Helm of Charm Protection, Girdle of Bluntness & Boots of the North w/ Short Sword +2 (Ironkiss), Short Sword +1 (Fireflower) w/ Gauntlets of Weapon Expertise (Swort Sword*****, 2WS***) & Ring of Air Control; Abilities: None; Skills: None: Spells: None; (Adv AI) (nil)
Keldorn: LG Paladin(Inquisitor)/11 (HP 102), Full Plate +1 (Plate of the Dark) w/ Two-Handed Sword +3 & Crossbow +3 (Necaradan’s Crossbow) w/ Gauntlet’s of Weapon Skill (Two-Handed Sword**, Long Sword**, Crossbow**, THWS*); Abilities: Detect Evil (14), Protection from Evil (11), Dispel Magic (3), True Sight (3); Skills: None; Spells: None; (Adv AI) (4)
KELDORN NPC CHARACTER RECORD
KELDORN CURRENT INVENTORY
Nalia: CG Mage/Thief//4/13 (HP 65), Necklace of Protection +1, Dusty Rose Ioun Stone, Cloak of Protection +1 & Amulet of Power, w/ Short Bow +2*, Clerics Staff +3; (Dagger*, Q/staff*, Dart*); Abilities: Set Snare, Scribe Scrolls; Skills: OL 60, PP 35, FT 80, MS 40, HS 30, DI 10, ST 5 of Non-detection; Spells: (w/ Ring of Acuity), Invisible Stalker, Summon Nishru, Animate Dead, Breach, Cloudkill, Lower Resistance, Fire Shield (Red), Greater Malison, Minor Sequencer, Spirit Armor, Stoneskin, Dispel Magic, Flame Arrow, Haste, Lightning Bolt, Slow, Spell Thrust, Aganazzar’s Scorcher, Knock, Melf’s Acid Arrow, Mirror Image, Stinking Cloud, Web, Blindness, Chromatic Orb, Grease, Identify; (Adv AI) (nil)
MOD USED: Amber v5, Tyris Flare v8, Foundling v4.2, Pesty v3.1, Asher v1.12, Gavin v23, Sirene for BG2, Isra v3, Paina, Tashia v1.2, Vampire Tales, Ninde, Saerileth, Arath v4, Dace v5, Tsujatha, Kelsey v5, Keto v5, Sarah v5, Nathaniel v4.4, Iylos v2.6, Adrian v4.3, Naphele v2.5, Fade v5.5, Saradas Magiv v1.6, de’Arnice Romance v6, Unfinished Business v26, Plane Touched Races, Wheels of Prophecy v8.3, NPC Flirt v1.06, Romantic Encounters v14, Tweaks Anthology, Deities of Faerun, Song & Silence v9, Rogue Rebalancing v4.92, Wizard Slayer Rebalancing v1.14, SCS v32.7, Atweaks v4.53, Item Randomizer
(Current AI) (Chain of Command rank)
we killed a red dragon because he vexed us. druid spells to lock him and bring the pain... a simple battle for a sword I don't really want
then we killed mind suckers with traps for Viccy to get a nice hammer
not a lot of experence remaining but saving a winged [not really] elf did give us a spike trap
6 spike traps and a move undead spell is my goto for getting a very nice ring without stress
We proceeded to do the Stone of Askavar quest to stop Bane being raised. I was surprised that Dorn didn't object as he is a worshipper of Bane.
Apparently a certain vital character only spawns after completing Durlag's Tower. I can't confirm that yet though.
At first we assumed that reentering the nashkel Mines would be eassy since we had been there before. However we were almost killed and as a result we decided that "Slowly, slowly catchee monkey" was the best tactic.
It worked and eventually we reclaimed the tome.
When he was falsely accused of murdering the Iron Throne leaders in Candlekeep, he decided to take his comrades (Isra, Branwen, Minsk, Imoen and Dynaheir) to Ulgoth's Beard, where he was transported to an ice island, retrieved a cloak and came back, and then went to Durlag's Tower to retrieve a stolen dagger and rescue a young man, all the while making plans how he could clear his name of the false accusations.
He made his way past four warders and some evil doppelgangers impersonating Durlag and his family, only to be hacked to pieces moments later by Dwarven Doom Guards.
May he rest in peace.
(It was one of those stupid moments where three toons and their green circles merged into one, got stuck, couldn't draw back and that was it. Pity. Now I'm going to take a break, play some Neverwinter Nights, and then try SCS for the first time).
Commiserations on Andreas. Honestly, considering that's a bug introduced in the EEs, I'd have been OK with a reload.
Thank you.
But I would have remained with the feeling that maybe I would have been stuck anyway, and done things differently after a reload. It would have felt wrong.
Having said that sqishy Npcs of mine have died due to that bug in my current game and I've lived with it.
I only survived because Charname was my tank.
I have never used the console before. I guess it's time to get used to it, because I'm starting to use more mods, so it's more likely that I'm going to encounter more bugs, too...