How Fionn Met the Equality Brigade

Dear journal,

TodA, methinks I ha' lernd tha leters wel enuf tha I wil bE Abl to luk at wat I ha writ and remMber what thA sA. I think me kelda spOk wIs wen she bAd me wrIt te remMber what I did, but O wAlE if e'er what I wrIt is tAken in a com-pli-cat-ed doc-U-ment!

TodA ha been quIt tha day! Leosin bAd me fallO tha caravan, and sO I did. Tha path I follOed led me to a hOl army o' muilemhagun, o' biggun tOds. I used wat me kelda that me, and was able to snEk past them, but it was all I cood do to no cry wAlE! Me thot I would dre me wyrd at there hands fins flippers spErs! I thot thA were marchin te tAk the casel casl castle, bu nau I do no think so NEmore. Within tha castle I fond a groop of pEpl. Methinks they R truly me wyrd group, for sur they are wErd! When I told them wAlE, thar be a group o biggum tOds, 'n' te run, thA did no! ThA tuk most o a minute te ask hu I was 'n' if thA cud trust me! For shur, if e'er I hEr a wAlE 'n' RUN, I naer ask queshions queshtons who is shoutin, 'n' jus run, if awA from the danger, gud, i' to the danger, bettR!

In tIm we ran down to the dunjon, 'n' Kieran fel into a puddle, trippin o'er sumthin I dinnae sE thar bEfor. WE faut an eabarun, thO methinks the oothers hEr call it a SLIME. Wit tha big group, i wen doun EZ. Then wE met wit sum biggun tOds, undr the castle! I dinnae sE what happn'd, bu methinks Ril kiled them quik. WE then slid doon a hil o mood, 'n' methinks Ril used Sam as a sled! Ril can be varry intrsting! At the botom o the hil, thar was a hUg pile o' laghairtun, oor LIZARDFOLK, bEin Eten bI the biggun tOds! The biggun tOds alredE had the land undr the castle!

We walked arund thar lAk, 'n' found Snapjaw, hoo is Kieran's friend. WE also found wat methinks was the biggun tOd's kelder, 'n' he was sacrificin' Snapjaw! Nau, I rspect other kelders, bu I naer lIk sacrificin things, 'specIlY things tha nae wanna be sacrificed, so me 'n' Kieran hEled Snapjaw, and e'eryone defended theyselvs from the biggun tOds all 'round. Wen thA wer all ded, I found some new armer!, 'n' the oothrs loooked foor moor gold 'n' things! (I M findin many OOO's in a roow is foon te wrIt!) Many jRs fel from the rooof, and Ril got some wIt poudr in her face, then strtd atakin us! Methinks tha scard me most of all that happnd tedA! Then I remMbrd wer the portl was (oh, aye, thar was a portl undr the castle we wantd to get te te get oot). WE went throo, and I M rIting this on the oothr side!

I M nau with a vary divers group. ThA are:

Ril: she is vary sneakE, 'n' methink I can learn from her. But she hides from a fight, and I do nae think that is gud, e'en thO the biggun tOds died faster when she did. MabE she is not hIdin from the fightin!

Sam: She sEms nice, and is wilin te be Ril's platform (thank ye Kieran fer helpin me spell that!). I M wonderin why....

Kieran: He is nae vary trustin, 'n' sometimes clumsE, bu he is luial loial loyel does a lot for his friends

Alooshtis AlUchis Allooshis thar I a man that is all blue, bu I nae think he is family. He likes water, and is varry quIet.

Snapjaw: He is a laghairtun, 'n' has the tawkin' o' the lAk folk wE usd te borO fish from!

Fionn

p.s. If e'er this is ta'en te cort, this is NAE a con-fesh-ion! I lI all the tIm, an' ye canno trust tha things I say OOR wrIt! I di nae do it!

Tales of My Death- By Phedre

 Among the Papers of EB is found scrawled in blood and blotted with dirt this poem. Scratched upon the back of some waxed paper. It is scrawled in fine handwriting, but lacks the depth of a trained writer.

The world is not kind to me. Woe it is anything but

I am lost among the seas of whips and tears

Shall I ever be free?

Guilded halls, I run from thee, sister at my heel

To live a life, kind and free

Is All I ever did seek

Yet here I am dead again

Risen once more

The stars did come, they did leave

Etching pain across my mind

Will I ever know what freedom is?

I try to run, I try to flee

Please just let me be

Cruel Drow Priestess makes me miss

My sisters whips blistering kiss

EB Guild Status Update

  (From the Desk of Kieran Darkwater)



         Dear Fellow Council Members,

     It is with a sad and heavy heart that I write to you this day. With the traumatic experiences we had in the swamp it is now my duty to take stock of our situation and report the current status of our fine adventuring company. I have re-compiled our former list to keep track of the additions and subtractions that have happened in the past few weeks in our journeys. It is my hope, that with the help of the remaining council members, we will be able to spread our reach and influence from the frothing coasts near Luskan, to the murky jungles of Chult, and far past the eastern reaches of the Sea of Fallen Stars. For now, let us gather our provisions, and march onward towards the rising sun and towards our destiny as the greatest fellowship to ever be written about!

                                                                                            Your Always Hospitable Chum,
                                                                                                    Kieran Darkwater       

Rainbow Council:

Archivist (R)- Taman
Envoy (P)- Madame Chelsea Serafina
Quartermaster (B)- Alushtas the Hermit
Taskmaster (Bk)- Ril
Treasurer (O)- Sam Las' Tname
Secretary (G)- Kieran Darkwater

Current Members:

Lord Thea  (Dwarven Barbarian)
Madame Chelsea Serafina ("Human" [Fire Genasi] Valor Bard)
Bharash (Dragonborn Paladin of Torm)
Ramas Akabob (Human Cleric)

Prospective Members:

Immeril [a.k.a. Mutt] (Elven Sorcerer)
Merric "Singefoot" (Moon Elf Arcane Trickster)

Retainers: (AKA Bitches of the EB Guild)

Arrizz (Race: Drow, Class: Elite Warrior- Denizen of the Underdark
          Notes: Won't leave the Underdark, Bound to Chelsea)
Aya Glenmiir (Race: Elf, Class: Commoner- Scholar
          Notes: Rescued from Phlan, Bound to Chelsea)
Conbert (Race: Human, Class: Commoner- Aspiring Minstrel
          Notes: Ex-Red Plume Mercenary, Devotee of Madame Chelsea)
Todd (Race: Half-Elf, Class: Commoner Child
          Notes: Servant of EB Guild)

Followers:
Ara Dyernina (Race: Human, Class: 3rd Level Monk
          Notes: Ex-Earth Cultist, Brandy Brewer, Devotee of Chelsea)
Doran Brizik (Race: Human, Class: 3rd level Fighter 2/Barbarian 1
          Notes: Ex-Fire Cultist, Skilled Horse Rider, Devotee of Madame Chelsea)
Drummone (Race: Half-Orc, Class: 1st level Thief,
           Notes: Welcomer Thief, In service of Sam and Kieran)
Shoalar Quanderil (Race: Water Genasi, Class: 5th level Sorcerer
          Notes: Ex-Water Cultist, Pirate Captain, Lady Chelsea's Servant)
Snapjaw (Race: Lizardfolk, Class: Shaman
          Notes: Ex-Dragon Cultist, Servant of Kieran)
Spernik (Race: Human, Class: 2nd Level Cleric/2nd Level Rogue
          Notes: Ex-Dragon Cultist, Devotee of Chelsea)
Thump Thump (Race: Half-Orc, Class: 3rd Level Fighter
          Notes:  Madame Chelsea's Guard)
Animals:

Vecna (Snake/Viper- Taman’s Familiar)
Scazzers (Kieran’s Pet Mouse)
Cleo and Theo (Kieran’s Two-Headed Worm)
Unknown Mouse (Ril’s Pet Mouse)
Giant Spectral Owl (Ril's Spirit Guardian)

Vehicles:
Large Keelboat (Chelsea's)

Contacts:

Hillsfar
Arrizz (Dark Elf Fighter- Liason to the Underdak)
Feraltha (Minstrel- Leader of Feralth's Merry Minstrels)

Phlan
Madame Freona (Innkeeper- Madame Freona’s Teakettle: Phlan)
Lord Sage (Library: Phlan)
Gisele Greycastle (Blackfist: Phlan)
Serelis (Ranger: Village near Phlan)
Minnitha [Hulda] (Dragonborn: Teakettle in Phlan)
Jenny Greenteeth (Hag: Whispering Forest near Phlan)

Mulmaster
Urdun Brizik (Innkeeper- Wave and Wink: Mulmaster)
Usilie Rostik (Smokeshop Owner/Smuggler: Mulmaster)
Faltyn Gos (Nobleman: Mulmaster)
Count Stoe (Nobleman: Mulmaster)

Road to Neverwinter
Ladia Widris (Human Female Guard: Road Caravan)
Noohar Serellim (Moon Elf Brothers: Road Caravan)
Snapjaw and the Jar-Jars (Lizardmen: Neverwinter Swamp)

Other
"       " the Rogue (Associate of Equality Brigade, Location Unknown)
Rorith (Red Wizard of Thay)
Leosin (Emerald Enclave: Etheril [A Pair of Black Antlers Inn])
Garwilogos


Leroen Keenblade (dragon cultist that wants out)

Important Documents:

-Map of Faerun, Sword Coast, Hillsfar, Phlan, Upperdark, and Mulmaster (2)
-Star Charts: Ancient Parchment, Clay Disk, Copper Sheet
-Aeryn Merryweather's Dissertation on Eating and Mating Habits of Faerun's Dragons

Castle Naerytar Books:
-Fierto's Folio of Fine Faerunian Foods
-Fontciel's Fieldguide to Factions. Fellowships, and Friendly Folk
-Harvald's Holistic Handbook of Helpful Herbs
-Prashaj's Publication of Perilously Poisonous Plants
-Rhontar's Rhetoric on Religious Relationships
-Sister Talona's Sacred Texts on Settlements, Towns, Shires, and Territories

Quartermaster Inventory:

2 incense blocks
1 censer
Dragon Cultist Journal
Drummone's Gift (EB Engraved Jewels- Rubellite, Charoite, Aquamarine, Jet, Topaz, Jade)

Trophies
Brain Jar
Enhanced Braincap Mushroom
Exotic Armor (Githyanki)
Ice Panther Rug
Tankard of Plenty

Guild Funds:

10,200 CP
2,307 SP
7 EP
3,162 GP
63 PP
















Kieran's Catalogue:

Brooch of Shielding
Cloak of Elvenkind
Dagger of Venom
"Death" Potion
Dragon Cultist Journal
Driftglobe
Goggles of Night
Golden Wyrm's Floating Water Orb
Greenteeth's Bone-Pin
Kieran's Parental Token
Kieran's Holy Coin
Kieran's Harper Pin
Kieran's Xhent Coin
Melted Scale Armor
Sacrificial Dagger
Scazzers
Serpentine Owl
Silver Spoon
Snapjaw's Totem
Two-Headed Worm
Ring of Swimming

The Departure of the Purple Wizard

The great wyrm is sad to say that the Purple Wizard of EB has been removed from the Rainbow Council. After insisting that all members of the EB wear shiny sparkling cloaks, Ril and Kieran were done. They fought valiantly that the EB was not in fact a fashion club and that they would not wear such ridiculous garb.

Offended greatly that the members of the Rainbow Council did not respect his every fashion whim the Wizard left in a huff, never to return. Alas. The Council will miss the glorious carriage rides, and highly recommends all future EB members put great effort into communicating clearly, not presuming things about members  fashion tastes and not assuming that differences of approaches are personal smears about the reputation of fashionistas.

Possible Headquarter Locations

      Dear Fellow Equality Brigade Members,

  I have been thinking about our recent adventures and travels throughout the Sword Coast and the newly established guild that we are a part of. It has come to my attention that, in order to be taken seriously as an organization we must have a functioning Guild Hall to call our own. To this end, I have been sending out requests to contacts in various cities (fellow priests, merchants, and other associates) to find suitable locations for our headquarters. I have compile a listed of some more suitable areas and unique opportunities that we might look into. Obviously there are many more areas than these, and you may have suggested areas of your own. This is merely to help initiate the discussion into the possible future our our little group and what it might unfurl into.

                                                                                                    Best Regards,
                                                                                                        Kieran Darkwater

(Attached to the letter you find a list of interesting locations along the west coast of Faerun. It seems that Kieran's contacts are only along this coast of the continent.)

Mulmaster:    From some of the Tymoran clergy, I have learned that a lesser nobleman, by the name of Uther Graywater, has recently been eagerly trying to sell his manor in the northern outskirts of Mulmaster. As I've been told, it is a decent size and looks decently kept from the outside, but nobody in Mulmaster is willing to buy it.

Waterdeep:   Less than a ten-day ago I heard some chatter from a passing caravan about a tavern in Waterdeep having been burnt halfway down. It seems a careless adventuring party got in a scuffle and caused the place to burn down. The tavern was named The Clinking Coins and is located in the South Ward. If the owner is willing to sell, I'm sure we could buy the property for a good price and construct a new building there.

Winding Water Hold: It seems that the Baldurian Parliament is granting full rights to a territory north near the river known as the Winding Waters to whomever eliminates the group of bandits that has taken refuge there. From what I've collected from my contacts it is a former redoubt used to defend Baldur's Gate in more harrowing times; now it is the home of the Rusted Saber Bandits.

Snakewood Province:  I've contacted my underground sources for any opportunities and it seems that they have found one east of Baldur's Gate on the road to the Sea of Fallen Stars. They have learned that a prominent lord, Umbero Falone, has fallen prey to his gambling habits and owes a fortune to a number of people. We could possibly attempt negotiations to buy the area from him, or use his addiction to try and win the holdings from him.

Pauper's Landing: A traveling cleric told me about a small village that he passed during his voyage across the Sea of Fallen Stars. Apparently a group of halflings bought a port and shantytown on the northern coast but have fallen on hard times attempting to renovate it for commercial use. It seems that they are seeking out investors to help rebuild the hamlet into a prosperous route along the sea trade routes.

Luskan: I've been contacted by some brethren of faith about a possible location up in the northern area of the Sword Coast. The Tymoran Clergy wishes to help revitalize the dilapidated city of Luskan by building a temple and try to slowly restore order to the area. They are willing to do this if they can find a trustworthy group to help guard and guide the reconstruction efforts.

Duncan's Hollow: I talked to some of the builders on the way to the Neverwinter Road and learned they came from an village known as Duncan's Hollow. It was a border-village that is north of Amn, but has recently been plagued by a swarm of kobolds that seem to be harassing the surrounding area. While the town itself is well-defended, outlying farmers have been forcibly removed by the vermin's arrival. This leaves a lot of potential in this area for redevelopment if we can help them remove this threat.

Danglewood Farms: One of my merchant friends sent me a letter in detail about a possible location on the outskirts of Secomber. Apparently a famous halfling farmer, by the name of Roscoe Danglewood, finally passed at the astounding age of 194. His family wishes to take up traveling and are going to fund their ventures by selling his large estate. They are asking a fair price but want to make sure that the land is put into good hands before they consent to selling it to anyone.

Castle Esmel: Back in Baldur's Gate, I may have "found" a document in a lord's bedchamber while exploring our surroundings. An announcement was sent out to parties of interest that an auction will be coming up for a place known as Castle Esmel in Amn. Due to a need of funds to pay for a recent war effort, the Amnian government is selling a parcel of land near Lake Esmel. It seems that the castle is in terrible shape but the surrounding area is highly valued territory and would be a great asset.

Mara's Hold: I met a ragged group of dwarves at a tavern near Waterdeep that recently came from the Sword Mountains. They lamented about how their clan was slaughtered by a stark raving mad lunatic commanding a regiment of undead. They were the only ones to escape and are seeking companions to help retake their home. They have pledged their home and their lives to whomever can help them defeat this menace and sanctify their homestead again.

New Port: One of my contacts, previous employer Ladia Widris, now works for one of the Lords of Waterdeep. It seems that he (she?) is looking to invest in creating a new trading port on the island of Chult. She is looking for highly dependable and respectable groups to take on senior positions at this new construction site who will eventually take up positions of running it once built. He (she?) is willing to meet with recommended companies to determine eligibility for the positions. Apparently, the pay is quite generous in it's amount per person, although the term used was "possible hazard pay".

Loudwater: Another of my brethren contacted me from where he is stationed in Loudwater. It seems that the relationship of the citizens of Loudwater and the elves of the High Forest has been severely strained due to logging and infringements by people on both sides. In order to keep from falling into the catastrophic possibility of war both leaders, Lady Moonfire of Loudwater and Faena Sovieral of the High Forest, have formed a controversial plan to set up a settlement at the edge of the forest by willing volunteers from both cities. They are seeking an upstanding third party to help construct and guard the settlement and govern with an unbiased view. Both are seeking recommended groups that include a variety of races, and with at least one human and one elf in them.

Calimport: Ever since the rapid decline of Calimport a century ago the Pasha and Viziers have been trying to rebuild the city to it's former glory. Since the death of Pasha Marod el Arhapan, the viziers have been able to try and restore order again to the Capital. One such vizier, Lady Yasheira Jassan, has contacted the Tymoran Clergy in an effort to find competent leaders to revitalize Calimport. She is willing to place a group in charge of an outlying Sabban with the hope of repopulating the derelict and deserted parts of the city. She has faith that outside help may finally return Calimport to it's rightful status as greatest city in Faerun.

Trollbark Isle: The strangest of my reports comes from an unusual letter. It was delivered to me by courier on the way to Baldur's gate from a Mr. Ekemon "Excellence" Skamos, self-proclaimed Tiefling of Renown. He mentioned that he had a "lucrative offer" and would like to meet on the island west of Trollbark Forest. He said that we would be rewarded greatly, including the deed to said island, if we were to complete a simple task for him. I have no idea who this man is but a whole Island would be a very "lucrative" investment.

Kieran's Pile of Leaflets #4

(Continuing to peruse through Kieran's documents, you come across an unusual tattered parchment which seems to be a crudely drawn map. Although you can't determine it's age, it seems more weathered by travel than time. The writing appears to be scrawled in terribly penned Dwarvish but is still legible, that is, if you can read dwarvish script.)

Kieran's Pile of Leaflets #3

(Further Searching in Kieran's paper bundle reveals another item of interest. This paper seems to be a notice to the customers of a Waterdeep Tavern. It seems to have been pulled off a wall and scribble on.)

Kieran's Pile of Leaflets # 2

(From the pile of papers inside of Kieran's pack, you notice a nicely folded sheet between a few letters. It seems to be a notice from the Order of the Gauntlet going out to the citizens of the Sword Coast. At the bottom you notice a few words in Kieran's handwriting.)

Kieran's Pile of Leaflets #1

(In Kieran's pack you find an assortment of documents, papers, and booklets. They seem to have been collected from numerous sources; some of the paper look like official documents, while other seem to be leaflets and newsletters from different towns and cities.)

(Flipping through the pile, you see a small flier notifying an event in the town of Zelbross. It seems to be a few months old but kept in a good condition. There are some scribbles on the bottom.)

* * * ATTENTION TRAVELERS * * *

Greetings from the Mayor of Zelbross

As is tradition, this month is our annual Challenge Hunt!!!!

As you may know, at this time of year the base of the Star Mounts

overflows with many nuisances to our daily lives so, in order to combat

the ever-increasing danger, we have created this tournament for passing

adventurers, guards, soldiers, and other such daredevils.

For the 16th annual Challenge Hunt we have a list of desired targets:

Forest Wolves

Bears (Brown or Black)

Goblins

Hobgoblins

Orcs

Bugbears

and for the truly daring. . .

Ogres

The contest will start on 1 Kythorn and end on 1 Flamerule

Your party will be judged on the amount of points you earn

and they are as follows:

                                  Wolf:    Regular - 1 pt.    Dire - 3 pts.

                                  Bear:     Black - 3 pts.     Brown - 5 pts.

                                  Goblin: Regular - 2 pts.   Hobgoblin - 4 pts.

                                  Orc  -  3 pts.

                                  Bugbear  -  4 pts.

                                  Ogre  -   10 PTS. !!!!!!

As always, you will earn points by bringing us proof of you victories

Proof is shown by bringing the pelt of the animal or the ear of the

creature (for ogres you must bring the tusks as proof)

Parties competing may be between 1-7 members and must

be in good standing with the citizens of Zelbross.

The Prizes will be as follow:

                                     7th Place:  A New Adventuring Pack

                                     6th Place:  A Newly Forged Weapons 

                                                       (Choices: 2 Longswords, 6 Handaxes or 

                                                        Maces, 3 Shortswords, A Rapier, 

                                                        2 Warhammers, or A Greataxe)

                                     5th Place: A Finely Crafted Longbow, 5 Quality Quivers,

                                                      and 100 Newly Fletched Arrows

                                     4th Place: 2 Hardy Pairs of Studded Leather Armor

                                     3rd Place: 10 Gold Bars

                                     2nd Place: 2 Thoroughbred Riding Horses,

                                                       1 Sturdy Draft Horse,

                                                       Leather Barding and Saddlebags,

                                                       and A New Wagon

                                     1st Place: Small Velvet Bag filled with Fire Opals 

                                                      and free stay at The Drunken Alderman 

                                                      for a Year!!!!!

Note:

- Contestants will be paid 3 copper per Animal. 1 silver per Creature,

and 5 gold per Ogre.

-Every Participating Contestant will go home with one of our

finely crafted Tortoise-Shell Pipes, courtesy of the citizens

of Zelbross.

- Pelts and items collected from creatures during this contest

are considered property of those that killed them.

-Any injuries resulting from contest are at the cost of the

contestant. Participation is completely voluntary and at the

expense of those choosing to play.

Registration for the contest will be done at the Zelbross
Town Hall with Astorio's Secretary- Maya Evenwood

Any Further Questions Regarding the Contest may be

Brought to the Mayor of Zolbross: Astorio Belgros

 

 

 

(You see some scribbles in Kieran's handwriting.)

 

This seems promising. Nice prizes, not too tough competition. Need to make sure to mention this to the group. If we ever pass through make sure to convince the others to try it.



Development Character Sheet - Alushtas "Hermit"

Name: Alushtas
Level: 4
Race: Water Genasi
Class: Sorcerer
Faction Level: Harpers, Rank 2 (not mentioned publicly)
Secret Missions: 0

Background 

I was adopted and raised as a farmhand, but grew disillusioned. I turned my back on that lifestyle, family, and Common name long ago.

In my search for meaning, I found myself alone on an island which housed the ruins of a small temple built around a lake. This temple housed a stone which glowed when immersed in water, and in the moonlight it displayed symbols I could not understand. I studied the stone, and used a slim metal chain to fashion it into a necklace. This ruined temple became my place of meditation. As the ocean and the sun cycled, time seemed to become such a trivial thing. Many seasons passed; decades, perhaps?

One night, a particularly violent storm put a permanent end to my peace, as it delivered a wooden ship to the nearby shoals. The ship split open and spewed forth a small restless army of elves. I despised them at first but attempted to communicate with them, as I wanted them and their ship gone. Fate smiled upon us, as I realized we have a common goal. I taught them how to survive on the island. They taught me their language. They referred to me as alushtas. The brighter ones realized that I am a seeker of knowledge and approached me one night, describing the existence of an organization called the Harpers. They referred to my water manipulations as a school of magic called Sorcery, and explained that my natural ability is simply the beginning in a vast field of study.

Together, we engineered a solution to their conundrum: they worked together to build a retaining wall around their ship, and as I guided the ocean waters into it their ship was seaborne again. I felt accomplished. In their absence I was pleased to see the island become peaceful again. But the Harpers claimed that if I wanted to truly understand the world, it could not be accomplished in solitude. Perhaps they were right? Moreover, I quickly came to the realization that my glowing pendant had gone missing - I had not seen it since the elves were on the island. What was the true significance of that stone? 

Clearly I had to bid farewell to this place, at least for now.

What was your flaw?
I am willing to make great sacrifices for a little knowledge I seek.

How has this flaw influenced your life?
This has led to an ascetic lifestyle.
I keep few possessions.
I only look for employment when I am starving, or it empowers me to gain knowledge.

Are you aware of this flaw?
Some others think this is a flaw. I think they put too much value on materialistic and mundane distractions.

Have you realized you have more flaws along the way?
I have difficulty appraising the value (wealth) of possessions.
I rarely form close relationships with others, but have learned how to approach strangers politely.

What was your initial bond?
I am driven by my thirst for knowledge. I intend to learn the plans that the deities have for our world, and learn the sciences behind the forces of the universe. Some would call this knowing the 'mind of the gods', and others would call it forbidden knowledge.
I am seeking the pendant which I lost.
My adoptive family may still be looking for me.

Does that bond still stand?
Yes.

What is the most significant bond in your characters life currently?
The search for knowledge, which may involve the elves I once knew and the missing pendant.

What is your characters bond with each of your main party members(one to three sentences on each character)?

Sam - A practical joker. Doesn't seem malicious, but I suspect she was voice in the swamp who convinced me nobody was there that night.

Ril - A guarded personality, understandably.

Kieran - May have sticky fingers, but I have nothing to lose. Mutters things in his sleep about myconids and gnolls. 

Alphonse - He mended my outfit, but also tailored it to his liking. It started as a plain robe, now it now has frills and lace. I reluctantly still wear it because I cannot afford to replace it.

Taman - His style is a bit bold. I do not know what his motives are.

What is one place you have visited that you would like to visit again?
I don't have a lot of places to go back to, but when the time comes I would like to return to my island and reflect on what I have learned.

If you were to retire, have you found where you want to retire?
Retirement is not in my plans.

What is your current main goal as a character?
I am seeking knowledge, and a good means to that end may involve a library or the elven harpers who I met on the island.

What is one item your character really wants?
 The pendant I lost, and a new set of clothes.

It feels awkward, writing about myself this way -

Alushtas

Official Titles Announcements

The Rainbow Council

Black- Taskmaster: Ril
Purple-Envoy: Alphonse
Red-Archivist: : Taman
Blue-Quartermaster: Hermit
Green-Secretary: Kieran
Yellow:  Treasurer : Sam

Character Development Sheet - Ril

Name: Ril (full name Merila)

Level: 7

Class: Rogue Assassin

Faction Level: 2 Zhentarim

Secret Missions: 1 from Dark Pyramid

What was your flaw? 

Once betrayed I never forgive. You don’t get second chances with me

How has this flaw influenced your life? 

I am very slow to trust and let people in, and easily grow suspicious of others. I try and tend to stay neutral and don’t take sides.

Are you aware of this flaw? 

Yes.

If so, how do you plan to overcome it?

Living on the streets, I’ve learned to live and protect myself first. I’ve seen and experienced what happens when you put too much trust into others. It never ends well. People are fickle, and there is always something or someone that will turn them against you. It will take a very optimistic friendship to even come near fixing this and I have no plans for that.

Have you realized you have more flaws along the way? 

Nope

What was your initial bond? 

There’s a couple in Mulmaster that took me off the street, for awhile. I send them a few gold in thanks whenever I reach a town.

Does that bond still stand? 

Yes.

What is the most significant bond in your characters life currently?

That initial bond

What is your characters bond with each of your main party members(one to three sentences on each character)?

Sam - The most dependable of the group. Not quite friends but close. I almost trust her.

Kieran - I feel like I’ve taken him under my wing, but not in a motherly sort of way. He has potential, but should be watched, constantly.

Alphonse - At first I thought I wouldn’t like him, he is just so completely opposite to me. But I’ve realized there’s a clever, deceivingly subtlety to his flashy ways. And I’ve found a good high class 2^nd identity that will help me get into places I normally wouldn’t be allowed entry.

Taman - Loud, talkative, completely unsubtle. For now I tolerate him as he’s a good distraction.

Alushta - Unknown. The most subtle of the group besides myself. Proves himself in battle though there’s a wild, chaotic component to him that isn’t always beneficial. 

What is one place you have visited that you would like to visit again? 

I only briefly stopped at Waterdeep and didn’t get to explore the city which I would like to do.

If you were to retire, have you found where you want to retire?

No, I haven’t quite found the right place, though I know I won’t end up in somewhere too quiet or remote, I’d become bored.

What is your current main goal as a character?

I would like to hone my assassin skills and take out a high profile target.

What is one item your character really wants? 

A Poisonous dagger, I am used to killing from afar, but when I am a master this will be my weapon of choice.

Character Development Sheet- Kieran

Name: Kieran Darkwater

Level: 5

Class: Cleric (Trickster Domain) of Tymora, also pays homage to Garl Glittergold and Baravar 
Cloakshadow

Faction Level: Harper- Harpshadow (Rank 2)

Secret Missions: I don't know


What was your flaw? 
It's not stealing if I need it more than someone else

How has this flaw influenced your life? 
This flaw was shaped from living on the streets of Mulmaster. If you could find useful tools as an urchin, you took them. Eventually I was taken into the Temple of Tymora for training and now use my "appropriated" goods to help further the influence of the temple and to succeed in my missions.

Are you aware of this flaw? If so, how do you plan to overcome it? 
I don't. The re-utilization of unused items from other people seems like a very reasonable thing to do. If i could put it to better use then that means it should be done.

Have you realized you have more flaws along the way?
I have an intense hatred for gnolls. My village was ransacked as a child, and as far as I know, only myself and a few other children were spared from the fire and blade. We were on our way to be sold, when a group of Harpers waylaid the group, slew the gnolls, and set us free. Ever since, unless held in check by persuasive allies, I am very likely to attack gnolls with reckless abandon.

I have gained fear of mushrooms ever since one fateful day adventuring. Now I can't bear the site of mushrooms, living or in food, and dread the name of the creatures called Mycanoids (shudder. . .)

Innately curious, maybe a little too curious at times.

What was your initial bond?
I owe my survival to another urchin who taught me to live on the streets.

Does that bond still stand?
Yes, and I am eternally grateful to that person. I will always go out of my way to protect their life from harm and will always be willing to lend a hand.

What is the most significant bond in your characters life currently?
It is first and foremost my dedication to the gods that I honor. Secondly to the urchin that saved my life. Third, to the newly formed Equality Brigade. Fourth, to any gnomes that I meet that aren't trying to kill me. Fifth, to the Harpers for saving me from the gnolls (then promptly dropping me off at mulmaster and leaving to continue their mission :\)

What is your characters bond with each of your main party members(one to three sentences on each character)?
   Sam- She is like a sister, somebody to annoy and tease on occasion, but make sure they are safe when danger comes around
   Ril- Always ready to go on an adventure with Ril, willing to save her any time she gets into trouble. such as "drowning"
   Taman- Sometimes stupefied by, sometimes amazed by. It is astonishing to Kieran how one person can be so omniscient and confusing at the same time
   Alphonse- Constantly amused by Alphonse. His antics and fastidiousness are always good for a laugh and he may be useful if not just entertaining.
   Alushta- Uncertain at this time. Very curious about his physiology as this is the first Genasi that Kieran has met.

What is one place you have visited that you would like to visit again? 
Some nights, when I dream, I can picture a great wheel made of earth, where games and laughter abound. This is the place where my Goddess resides. This is a place that one day I hope to have the honor of attending.

If you were to retire, have you found where you want to retire?
I would like to create a place, (Stronghold, town, hamlet, etc.) that can be a haven to both urchins and gnomes. This place would collect any willing volunteers and house/feed them, also it would serve to teach them skills to defend themselves/ the village so that another ransacking wouldn't happen.

What is your current main goal as a character? 
Current goal is to capture a Djinn and receive a wish from it. I must also properly outwit the Djinn so as to have the wish be a successful and prosperous one.

What is one item your character really wants?
Two items that Kieren really wants are: 
A) A Wand of Wonder: It is quite an entertaining device; you will never know what will happen.
B) The Deck of Many Things, what better way to honor my goddess than a deck of chance?

5th Level Benchmark Character Development Sheet

So your character has hit 5th level? Great! You are no longer a boring newb adventurer. The great Wyrm commends you on your accomplishment of not being slaughtered by the foul beasts of the wild world yet.

Time to take a moment and reflect. So you started out as a character, someone who had a background/flaw/personality trait/bond. You are better than that now, you are someone, people are starting to hear about you! Time to invest... deeper.


So  here is a 'mini' sheet for you to fill out at Level 5/8/10/12/14 ect.


Name:
Level:
Class:
Faction Level:
Secret Missions:


What was your flaw?
How has this flaw influenced your life?
Are you aware of this flaw?
If so, how do you plan to overcome it?
Have you realized you have more flaws along the way?


What was your initial bond?
Does that bond still stand?
What is the most signifigant bond in your characters life currently?
What is your characters bond with each of your main party members(one to three sentances on each character)?

What is one place you have visited that you would like to visit again?
If you were to retire, have you found where you want to retire?

What is your current main goal as a character?
What is one item your character really wants?



These sheets are to help reflect on your characters growth. They are not to be used by any other PC against a player, or as player knowledge. If a player wants to fill this out secretly and send it to the great wyrm privately, that is acceptable.

Maps of Faerun

(From The Desk of Kieran Darkwater)


Pleasant Tidings Beloved Brother-in-Arms,

      I have recently had the fortune of finding the time to compile the maps I collected from my brothers at the Temple of Tymora in Baldur's Gate. Thanks to their generous allotment of temple property, we now can most definitely place any area that we might venture to along the Sword Coast or partially inland. As we progress I will keep watch for any possible merchants or cartographers in the area so as to purchase further maps for Guild use. For now, please take time to peruse the map scrolls to ensure basic knowledge on the surrounding elements that we will be encountering. It would always be wise to have knowledgeable members in the Equality Brigade Guild.

                                          With Warm Regards Your Endlessly-Deserved Friend,
                                                                                 Kieran Darkwater




Faerun:

http://vignette1.wikia.nocookie.net/forgottenrealms/images/a/a0/Faerun_map.jpg/revision/latest?cb=20080923050218



Sword Coast:

https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC9sgykcbufHYAtJwjhna7Dqtkbrv_n92Zc7Pu5SnuCVTrX3Ruj3K5jkKzxqLJK1TBMHa1iR2br2IYna41XiZn0N2QZAlLKJL2wuLGBC7Mcvf5bSMFZkLPID01W1tN2zpDHidgOQdaoc8/s1600/Map+-+Sword+Coast+x_Page_1_Image_0001.jpg



Mulmaster:

http://i.imgur.com/62wmQEf.png

Revisions of the By-Laws

(From The Desk Of Kieran Darkwater)

Welcome Adored Compatriots,

     As we have had our first official meeting of the Rainbow Council, it is with great pride as the new Secretary of the Guild, to put into accord the refurbished By-Laws that will be used for active members of the guild from now on. I don't believe that I need to remind you how important that it is to follow these rules, for without us setting the example for all other potential members, how can we expect them to uphold our tenets and promote prosperity throughout the land (especially for us). As ever I wish good luck to all of us on our ventures in the Equality Brigade Guild.

                                               Initialed by Your Incessantly-Distinguished Friend,

                                                                                                Kieran Darkwater

Preface: This is and will be considered the guild charter for all of those who wish to and have been accepted into the service of the Equality Brigade. All who serve under our banner must uphold the regulations and principles that are written within these texts. Rules and by-laws of the guild may be set and altered by the Council of Six as long as they do not contradict with the primary goals of the Equality Brigade.

Mission Statement: The Equality Brigade is a group of like-minded people who seek to ensure the diversity and prosperity of the goodly mortal races across Faerun. We are dedicated to the preservation of life for the common folk as well as ensuring stability within the societies that have been built on the principles of cooperation and hospitality. We are welcoming to any race that is not aggressively hostile to the aforementioned societies and strive to coerce inspire any other races to live in a peaceful co-existence to ensure longevity for everyone.

Rules and Regulations:

I.                 Members of the Brigade must prioritize guild values over any other associate objectives. While membership in other factions is permitted (i.e. Harpers, Order of the Gauntlet, Wizards of Thay, etc.), it must not take priority over the function of the Brigade.

II.               Members must ensure the protection of those who seek our aid employ. The purpose of the Brigade is to promote permanence in the lives of peaceful societies others and one must keep them alive, within reasonable circumstances, to ensure said permanence.

III.              Members shall not commit any crimes that will inflict harm unto the Brigade, whether it is monetary, physical, or reputation. If there was due cause for breaking laws, then the guild will send an associate to help navigate the legal processes but any reckless law violations will not be tolerated.

IV.              Members shall not inflict injury or steal from any other member of the Brigade. Also, any damage of theft of guild property will not be tolerated and will bring about consequences decided by the Council.

V.               Gnolls are not to be considered an acceptable race in the realm of Fareun. Any gnolls encountered during the travel of members of the Equality Brigade must be mercilessly destroyed to ensure that the vile race doesn’t desecrate the lands any further.

V.           Upon initiation to the Guild, all members must pay an entrance fee, (100 GP for Senior positions, 25 GP for regular membership.) as well as the appropriation of 10% of any members monetary gains during Guild-sanctioned missions.

VI.          The collection of guild funds, known as the Treasury, will keep an amount of 2,500 GP in reserve for use in case of any "unforeseen mortal injuries" might be sustained by members of the Brigade. After the minimum reserve is held, 10% of income for the Treasury, will be allocated for the use of the Quartermaster, for use in Guild supplies.

VII.              Any violation of the Brigade’s rule will invite a hearing convened by the Council. By the grace of the council, depending on the severity of the incident, a punishment will be decided appropriate to the violation that was caused. 

VIII.          Meetings of the Rainbow Council may only take place if all members are present. If the quorum is not met in physical conditions, it is possible to converse together upon the Brigade's personal terminals.

Rainbow Goddess and All Her Glory

The high and mighty Goddess on high, Queen Johanna the gold.

 Ancient Gold Wyrm, head intellect and instigator of the Rainbow Council of the Equality Brigade welcomes you to her lair.

 The lair of the Rainbows is not to be spoiled with ill attitudes. All ugly minded creatures will be banished to less tasteful planes of existence.

Questioning the all mighty gold wyrm is unacceptable.

 Acceptable tributes to Rainbow Wyrm are as follows:
 -Chocolate
-Melon flavored drinks/candy
-Rainbow colored trinkets
-Adorable cats for her personal army of Cats.
 -First born children (for use in stew)
 -Evil siblings (for sacrifice/bon fires)
 -Dwarf beards shaved off of disrebellious dwarves
 -Lolita items, in particular Angelic Pretty items for Lolita clothing hoard.
 -Dragon Eggs

 Unacceptable tributes:
-Living Dogs
-Perfumes
-Banana or Peach flavors candies
- Bad Anime
 - Anything that could be found in a sewer
 -Useless trinkets

 Rules for pleasing the great Wyrm:
-Never question her
 -Stand up for the weak
-Do not be prideful or arrogant
 -No being bad
-Be kind to the great Wyrm's human mate
 -Clean up after yourself when in the Wyrm's Lair
 -Don't overly partake in vises such as alcohol in the Wyrms presence
 -Thank the Wyrm for her mighty wonderful presence and the meals she provides to your lowly selves


For those too shy to look upon the face of the great golden dragon, paintings are provided of her excellent forms.

A scroll found at camp

(you find a large scroll by by Ril’s resting place one night at camp. It is curiously sitting out quite noticeably as if someone left it out there on purpose. It seems to be a work in progress with many cross outs and short-hand notes written in the margins and between lines.)

A treatise 2TL a study The Art of Subtlety by a Shrewd Master

Many overlook look the Subtle Art, a part of its’ charm which may be due to its’ key nature, and lose out on a rewarding and healthy lifestyle. First let us look at the most obvious of reasons to learn the Art, the rewards. To act in a subtle manner reaps prizes both physical and metaphysical beyond internal. When one is an adventurer for hire (or any other simlar and excellent job choices) the most common request of employers’ is discretion. This is often a side request and one can still receive payment either way however, employers, and any allies one should meet along the job, reward r2m tend to bestow kindness on one’s level of discreetness. And by kindness I mean gold Kier Also, whenever dealing with persons of power, subtlety is the only way to get things done. Showing one’s hand too quickly can cause one to lose out on the bigger game. 2m1? bigger game means bigger reward. 

Now onto the less obvious, the benefits to one’s health. When one is a master of the Subtle Art, one avoids much stress and danger that comes about from open and rash behavior. To properly explain, let us use some examples. When one is meeting the wise, powerful leader of one’s organization, a subtle master would be able to point out the leaders complete lack of fashion sense without being sent through a portal to a hell swamp. A subtle master may even be able to insult the leader on his lacking skills in such a way as to be seemingly compliment him. Let’s say this is a magical organization; “Clearly a Master of the Arcane, has no time to spend on such frivolites as ones appearance, and it is only right that you push such small tasks onto another”. seeming to be humble is In another example, a person without a more refined manner might instigate a rebellion among members of dragon cultists, thus obvioulsy potentially drawing catastophe the eye and ire of a dragon. Though one with skills in the canny and cunning can bend such a situation to their advantage. One of such astutenes could use the rebellion as a distraction to steal a dragon’s treasure. It would of course be best if one’s involvement in the rebellion was unknown, making even the rebels believe it was their idea. A Master of the Subtle never chooses a side, but waits for the highest bidder and seemingly gets behind them. Always be ready to change alliance, it is not betrayal if one wasn’t a believer in the first place. 

The  Art of Subtlety is a sophisticated art to master. It takes time and dedication. One of course does not brag boast one’s skills but, inconspicusly uses them to the advantage of oneself and those around them. 

(Deep within the pack of Kieran Darkwater you find a finely written message on a piece of fine vellum. Unfortunately, it is written in a coded text and is illegible without the proper cypher.)

(Translation)

Dear Brothers in Song,

               As Of yet there has been no confirmed sightings on my part of those who dwell within the shadow of the Purple Sun or those within the Blackened Grasp. Our suspicions have been confirmed, the recent disturbances have been caused by another faction, one that I have yet to discover the name of. Currently I have found the help of a trustworthy party, and have decided to keep on with them due to similar ideologies. Whoever this new group is, it seems that they have a fascination with dragon-related subject; something that never bodes well for the common folk. I will be keeping an eye out for any disturbances in the future and will report on further progress. It seems that they are keeping to the Sword Coast for now, as I have seen no sign of them further inland on the road to Mulmaster. Strange events seem to be happening there as well, particularly fire-related events, but I must remain focused on things here as they are top priority. As always may your travels be swift, your health be sound, and your hearths be warm.

                                                                                                         Signed,

                                                                                                                     Watcher K. D. 

Excerpt from the personal journal of Alphonse Theren Valarian the Third

If someone would have told me that my impeccable fashion sense would have landed me is such a predicament, I would have laughed stylishly in their face. At first, I thought it was such a great honor to be called into the secret meeting hall of the Arcane Tower of Might.

The halls whispered with the sounds of my delicately embroidered velvet slippers as I ascended the granite stairs of the tower. I was disappointed as usual in the decor. There was something to be said for the whole sense of dark foreboding that the flickering candles that dimly lit the halls of the tower, and that was boring. There was no style, no panache, and most definitively no color.

I secretly hoped that someday they would allow me to brighten up the place. For now however, I had to be content with setting an example of what it meant to be a fashionable wizard in this day and age. My robes were made of the finest silks, gold and silver threads, and glittered with finely powered diamond dust. The fabric itself was enchanted to reflect light in all the colors of the spectrum depending on the angle one viewed them.

Right at that moment, I caught a glimpse of myself in a dust covered, poorly polished mirror as I strode purposefully down the hall. I stopped for a moment, casting prestidigitation cleaning and polishing the mirror until it gleamed brightly. I involuntarily took in a quick breath when I saw what could only be an angel reflected there in the mirror. I smiled at the enchanting creature before me as it smiled back at me, not a hair out of place. Simultaneously, we whispered gently, lovingly and almost greedily to one another, “You look fabulous.”

Taking one last lingering look, I walked over to the chamber door and spoke the secret phrase that would allow me to enter this one time and one time only, “Something fabulous this way comes.” A loud gong rang announcing my presence to the lone occupant within.

“Enter.” A male human voice that sounded like crushed gravel assaulted my ears. “And be quick about it.” It sounded as if he hadn’t spoken in years.

The heavy stone door guarding the room swung open of its own accord. Behind what appeared to be a stone altar stood the head wizard of the order of the Cloaks, Thurndan Tallwand. Although I could feel the arcane might thrumming around him, I was horrified by the absolute lack of care in which he presented himself. His wizard robes were barely more than the tatters of what I supposed was the homespun creation of a blind country bumpkin. His long white beard was unkempt in the way that few rat’s nests ever achieved. I found him revolting.

It looked as though the feeling was mutual. “So you are the one they chose?” He sneered disdainfully at me. Our eyes met, sending chills down my spine. His eyes shone with a dark intensity as they appraised me. “I suppose you will have to do.”

“I am sure that I am more than…”

“I will speak and you will listen.” The sternness of his voice spoke volumes of the tortures I would receive in the dungeons below the tower if I disobeyed. I dared only the barest of nods before he continued. “There is yet another, party, at the Estate of Mistress Astrid Saj.” Disdain dripped from his lips like venom as he spoke. “I was told that you had been in her employ recently as a ‘fashion advisor’. Is this true?”

“Yes. It most most certainly is true.” I said distracted by what could only be remnants of his last meal stuck in his teeth and beard.

“Good. There are representatives of the various factions including the Thayans are visiting Mulmaster and I have been ordered by the High Blade Jasseen Drakehorn herself to put in an appearance.” The scowl crossing his face deepened even further and as he said this his eyes smoldered. “You will assist me by giving, fashion advice.”

I laughed, gods help me, I laughed. “Surely you must be joking. You? Fashion advice?” The sounds of my laughter rang through the chamber again. “The best fashion advice that I can give you is simply to not be seen in public, ever.”

I could see his cracked yellowed teeth as his mouth dropped open beneath his wrinkled visage. His bony hands clenched in anger at his sides. The dust on his robes fell to the floor as he shook in anger.

“And furthermore, even if I had a few hundred years, which I doubt you have left to live, I wouldn’t even be able to begin to explain the concept of dental hygiene, or even hygiene in general to you.” I laughed again.

“ENOUGH!!!” his cracked lips spat. He raised a gnarled finger as he pointed at me. “You will regret speaking to me is such a manner.” Several magic missiles leapt from his fingertip, streaking across the room.

I cast shield in response, causing the magic missiles to reflect about the room. Some struck the walls harmlessly, while others hit the altar causing it to glow as a bowl of mysterious fluid spilled on it. A trail of what appeared to be a mixture of blood and various other bodily fluids ran across the floor towards me. It poured into some strange pattern that was carved into floor. I was standing right in the middle of it dazed.

Thurndan gathered power for a new spell, drawing lines of force through the air. Whatever he was about to cast was a spell far beyond my abilities. My soft alabaster skin thrilled with the growing energy that filled the room. His eyes glowed with a raging fire as he raised his hands into the air. “I wish that this fool be transported to a land of his worst nightmares and that I will never see nor hear him again!”

As he completed the spell, lightning struck the circle causing it to glow. I found myself falling for what felt like an eternity surrounded by darkness. I splash landed into murky swamp water. It would have come up to my knees if I had not have been sitting. As it was it came up to my chest. The feeling of the stagnant water was only matched by the revolting smell that assaulted my nostrils. If there was a hell surely I was in it.

After falling back into the horrid muck several times, I managed to stand. Off in the distance there was a patch of dry land. It appeared to be some sort of ruined village. I slogged through the quagmire in the direction of the village, cleaning myself as best that I could with prestidigitation as I went.

When I finally arrived on dryish land and finished returning my clothing to pristine condition, I noticed a party of adventurers speaking in earnest with some lizardmen of all things. “Perhaps one of them might be able to help me get out of this gods forsaken place.” I muttered to myself. I approached the group of adventurers looking for assistance.