DnD: 'The Accidental Alliance' adventuring party

CG HEf - SharessFelina - 'Party leader', Unseen & Art

Born on a different Prime, she does believe in spending, not earning. She dislikes the discomfort of adventuring. When in doubt she casts lots of defensive magic on herself.

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Felina did become the 'party leader' because her experience, but also because nobody else seemed suitable. She's a 'laisez faire' kind of person, who only decides when others ask for her opinion. In truth she prefers to be independent, but at this time she finds the group to be handy.

She came from somewhere, persecuted for her arcana knowledge, to Faerun, to be persecuted for her rather loose definition of mine and thine. As an 'adventurer', however, her acquiring of goods is accepted and the extra bodies between her and danger is a decided advantage. The addition of healing power and somebody to discuss magic with - and the fact nobody tells her what to do - makes her like it more than she dislikes it. She even starts to care for some of these people.

Felina doesn't mind working with Chi-Si-Chen (and getting Zhae for free), as the oriental girl seldom opposes her and has a different, but interesting, view on the Art. She has learned to trust Kendalan's wilderness lore. Grimwald is tiring, both because it seemingly endless talks about boring subjects, as well as the fact that their outlook in life is so totally different. Cuura is to agressive to her taste - and to obvious, while she is wary of Nethander.

CN Hf - SuneCuura - combat leader, (mounted) melee combat

Born on The Ride (and to ride), Cuura has little interest in organization, but wants to become a horde leader. She dislikes people reading to do 'magic'.

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Other than many of her kin, Cuura has some feeling for trying to keep oversight and to fight tactically. Using her horse's speed and ranged weapons to reduce the enemy is something she was never trained for but still feels natural. What's more, she no longer sees combat as crucial on its own, but only as an important way to gain stature. She now follows Sune, where most barbarians follow Tempus.

Grimwald is long winded, but at least he's a fighter, as is Zhae; Kendalan she works well with, and she feels Felina's experience is useful. ChiSiChen's morning tea is nice, and she finds Nethander interesting.

LG Dm - Dumathoin/MoradinGrimwald - smith, cleric

He was forced to flee from his fallen home. Even if he is not worthy he will fight on to restore the Dwarven heritage - if somebody would listen to him.

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Dwarves are the pinnacle of creation, but his own destination is one of doom and despair. These things Grimwald knows to be true. Where he's ever doubtful about his selfworth, he is steadyfast in his belief in his races destiny - if only the other acceptable races could see that truth and the neccessity of eliminating the orc threat once and for all.

His faith assumes silence, but his companions must be shown the way. He often sees their flaws, yet he knows he/his race will need their support to survive. They miss the obvious, think they see, and put their trust in cursed powers and tainted blood. Giving up, however, is not, and will never will be, a viable option.

Grimwald looks up at Cuura, seeing her as a great captain experienced in combat. Zhae is to much a lone wolf with a flawed memory of dwarven history. Kendalan is an expert in an area he's not remotely interested in, and he just cannot believe the elf's remarkable eye sight - if he can't spot it, it can't be important. He distrusts Nethander and he cannot believe that anybody might want to work with such a creature. His opinion of both the Art and the person of Felina is low - Magic is dangerous and bad for ones soul. Chi Si Chen he sees as touched by the Gods, but he isn't sure she isn't cursed too. Sometimes he has high hopes, other times he despaires for her.

After breaking the vow/curse of a dwarven clan, his outlook in life changed. Oddly enough - as he sees it - the dwarven gods seem to (more or less) agree with this.

N C-Em - MielikkiKendalan - guide, archer

After the Retreat some Copper elves decided that they needed 'ambassadors' in the human world. He's a cosmopolitan to their standard.

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For a Faerûn copper elf, Kendalan is a real open minded individual. He was sent into the (human) world to try and make sense of it, as the lack of shielding Moon and Sun elves made encounters with that race ever more likely. He was to discover which humans (and dwarves, gnomes, etc) could be trusted, so to create a buffer zone to the elves beloved High Forest.

With his deep understanding of forests and nature in general, and due to his phenomenal eye sight, Kendalan is the group's Pathfinder, scout, and camp master. In combat he fulfils the usual elven role, but his connection to Mielikki gives the party an extra healer/supporting caster and his Amethyst dragon blood also slowly becomes a telling factor. More and more his true strength shows in his animal companion, Bear.

Except for a kind of tiredness because of Grimwalds endless monologues, Kendalan accepts most others as they are - even if he does not understand them.

NG Hm - noneZhae - Melee specialist, war historian

A westerner trained in the martial arts by a Shou master. His handling of the blade is great, his handling of civilization somewhat less. His master disappeared and he's not quite sure what to do about it.

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Felina: she is our leader, the one dealing in matters not directly related to battle. Her decisions... I'm starting to question them more and more as I see more of the world I see... I can't quite put my finger on it. Everything however tends to work out, so there may be more wisdom behind her choices than I see. She moves with exquisite grace though and has shown great skill behind her frailty, with her things are simply not as they seem.

Cuura: an exquisite warrior in raw ability, not to mention her vigor and willingness to throw herself in the thick of it. I would mark her only flaw her tendency to lose herself in conflict, yet even that she turns into a powerful weapon. She is very practical and our leader in matters of combat. An excellent horse rider, having even taught me the beginnings of how to ride. Combat from the back however feels to restrictive to me, despite their great swiftness. She is a jovial spirit and I find her demeanor quite uplifting. A credit to the group morale and her willingness to listen to counsel and straight to the point when there is too much deliberation is commendable.

Grimwald: the Dwarven master himself, teaching me the very basics of a weapons construction, which greatly aids my ability to wield them and make them a very extension of my self. He has been a bastion of the group and even conquered great choices posed before him. He did not have the vigor in conflict I expected at first, but perhaps it was not needed till recently, he has even begun to demonstrate techniques of the sublime way, manifesting in awe inspiring manner. His path focuses on the strengthening of the group itself, our healer and cornerstone he is.

Kendalan: our guide and keenest eyes. His skill with the bow is truly impressive, making shots of unheard accuracy. He fights with the blade and even has the aid of nature itself. We do not speak much, but I still desire to learn such techniques of the bow, but first I must focus on my current studies. His heart is a righteous one and he will act when I but ponder if I should. No better example could I ask to demonstrate one of my greater lackings.

Reed: what could I say about her, I lack the poets tongue to spin the words I want. I lack the skill to give my blade focus, that I may truly protect her. She shows such strength when tested, this small flower would stand against a hurricane and not wilt. There is so much I have to learn, but I will stand and defend her till my last breath. When I stand upon my last leg, she drives me further, her peril made me force the door open, she was the one that awoken me from the madness that had me assault my friends, she drives my blade to it's sublime state. I ponder if she could be my answer to the spirit, but I am not ready yet.

Nethander: my rival of the blade. He is unlike Cuura, a master of focus and precision. When we spar he shows me weaknesses no other adversary has shown me, I can turn and avoid any mans blade, but his still follows and ends where he wanted it. His only flaw is this abilities ineffectiveness to those who lack such vulnerabilities. His skill and flair are admirable. It is only his demeanour I tend to question, he as an enjoyable flair, but it sometimes turns into grave disrespect. He has as much growth to do as do I.

NG Hf - Guan YinChi Si Chen (Reed) - Merchant, Mystic

A T'u Lung citizen, sent/fled to the west. She has the Sight, rather impressive Fire Art, and an ever growing understanding of nature through her faith in Guan Yin and the path of Enlightenment, but is dependent on support of the group as some people back home wish her dead. She's also handy when something needs to bought or sold.

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Together with Zhae she is the 'youngest' of the group. Perhaps not in years - Nethander is younger still - but in worldy experience as it pertains to the western Realms. She is learning fast though, and she no longer is a proper T'u Lung maiden.

Her position in the group is based on four totally different aspects. Her arcane fire Art is deadly for such a low level caster, she can cast druidic spells, she has a incling of what the future might bring (both by study and by involuntary insight), and she is the best trader of the group. Even in a standup fight she isn't totally useless. On the down side are several cultural inhibitions, emotional instability, neither animal companion nor shapeshifting, and less martial insight than is healthy.

She likes Zhae's culture, and the fact that he is her guardian. She is utterly frustrated by his inability to make the next step. Felina's has knowledge of the Art and understands a woman's position, yet her casual disregard for ownership wrings with a high merchant's daughter. Kendalan's understanding of Nature is different but akin to her own, in a peculiar way he is the 'closest' in understanding. Reed seldom disagrees with the elf, but in the end there is one main stumbling block: Reed is a thinker, Kendalan acts out of natural reflexes. Cuura is a special case, the woman 'role' does not apply to her, and her love for horses a beautiful thing. However, she is coarse, distrustful ot the Art, and has a tendency to take on bigger things than she can handle. Grimwald... Slowly these two are getting closer. The dwarf is often right, and often wrong. It mostly depends if he knows what he is talking about. He craft is outstanding. What is clear is that he has a horrible way of convincing people. Even if he is right, the way he puts it almost forces one to take the other position. Together they mostly decide 'why' things should be done. Nethander is practical even if his morals are, well... She tries to show him the path to self knowledge, but it will be a long one.

CN TFm - TymoraNethander (Snake) - rogue and scout

Grown up in the squalors of Calimport, cursed by his birthright to become one of the many thieves fighting for survival. His body still shows the signs of a youth where food was a luxury. Picked up by a blademaster in hiding, he learned the art of fencing.

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Nethander is kind of stumped by Felina. She is supposed to be the party leader, but he really doesn't understand why: she is certainly not the wisest, clearly not the most intelligent and most certainly not the most present character in the group. Nethander can't place Felina: she's stealthy and can do some magic tricks, but you don't really see her do anything and then when you've finally placed her she does something that forces you to re-evaluate her completely. Labeled 'Formidable'. In a social way Nethander has got no issues with Felina, perhaps because she’s a social outcast herself, she seems to accept Snake’s heritage.

Cuura perhaps the easiest going member of the party. Cuura is a person who looks at actions, not stature! Cuura is a formidable warrior, yet not so bright and easily manipulated. Cuura is a classis case of WYSIWYG, a formidable warrior who takes damage and dishes it out 'till either she or the opponent drops down and on top she's even a good laugh. Labeled 'Risky' Socially, Cuura is the closest to a friend Snake has ever encountered.

Nethander regards Zhae as the most skilled fighter in the party. His battle prowess is beyond all others, especially his ability to dish out damage is astounding. His prowess combined with the fact that Nethander doesn’t seem to be able to place a sneak attack really bothers him. Labeled 'Deadly'. Socially the fact that Nethander and Zhae share the passion for swordplay makes Nethander respect and accept Zhae without a doubt. Somehow Nethander doesn't understand the issues Zhae is encountering with himself. Zhae is clearly bothered by a lot of issues about duty, loyalty, insecurity that Nethander can't relate to. Although they seem to accept each other, a real friendship seems to be out of the question due to incompatible character.

Kendalan the all seeing Elf. Kendalan seems to act like a true Elf. Patient, reasonably open minded and he seems to judge on actions. Nethander has no quarrels with Kendalan and thinks this also counts for kendalan as well. Kendalan is a real virtue to the party because he seems to spot danger from miles away. What he really excels in is unclear to Nethander. He can handle his weapons decently and can do some magic tricks, but he doesn't really shine in any profession. Perhaps his knowledge about nature and the bond he has with wildlife makes him special. But since nature is not Nethanders strong point he cannot put this in perspective. It's after a fight that Kendalan really shines with his healing powers. In a fight itself Kandalans tricks doesn't seem to be very effective and his battle prowess is average and nothing more. Labeled 'fifty-fifty'. Socially Nethander does not object to Kendalan, he keeps to himself when not spoken to and answers whenever addressed to. He is a bit strange, but that must be his Elvish heritage. In a fight Nethander will certainly let Kendalan guard his back and if Nethander doesn't object to long nights of walking guards together with the Elf.

Reed is a most interesting character according to Nethander. Nethander regards reed as the real party leader, she has the wisdom, intelligence, knowledge and natural wits to decide what's best for the party. In this frail body she combines magical prowess beyond all others and she tries to sharpen her battle prowess with that strange weapon of hers. Sometimes she's an enigma to Nethander, strong, willful and standfast in her deeds and then without a real reason she becomes overwhelmed by emotions and looses all strength. When Nethander has to evaluate Reeds possible danger he has to give here a 'Risky'. Her ability to dish out incredible fire damage is as dangerous as anything, yet when prepared Nethander thinks he can end the fight in a few quick decisive rapier thrusts, before she can call the power of her magic. Fortunately Nethander knows it will never come to this because Nethander has a soft spot for the gentle lady from the East. Somehow she sees him as her personal project. She tries to teach him and keep him on the track of goodness and Nethander slowly begins to understand that somebody seems to care for or at least worry about him.

Last but not least the grumpy dwarf. Grimwald is the most difficult one in the party, although lately he has proven to be a wise dwarf, he's really not a team player. He mumbles on about the party being fools and he most certainly doesn't trust Snake at all. If Nethander comes into a conflict with anyone it will be the grumpy dwarf. Although he packs a good swing with his battleaxe and his priestly magics allow him to stay in the fight longer, he's no match for Nethander in battle. After the weeks Nethander and Grimwald has spend together on the road, Nethander slowly seem to appreciate the wisdom and abilities on priestly powers the dwarf adds to the party. The problem lies with the dwarfs distrust in Nethander based on his fiendish heritage. Nethander really doesn't like the dwarf, his crazy ideas on good and evil, predestination and his incredible stubbornness. Nethander will accept Grimwalds presence in the party, friends they will never become. In truth Grimwalds reaction is like most people react to tieflings, so Nethander is used to be treated like this. Strangely enough grimwald seem to be shaken whenever Nethander performs an act of 'goodness'. Since Nethander knows this, he secretly enjoys messing around with Grimwald's view of the little tiefling. Labeled 'fifty-fity' and the social mismatch of the party.

The party according to others:

The Harpers

The Harpers have some hope for this group, even if currently only a few characters would be considered potentional Harper members individually.

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Weldin had been laughed at for getting this motley group together, but others now have to admit that it worked out well. Priests of Oghma are frustrated about them.

• Felina is a bit to 'roguish' to be asked as harper candidate, but if she would ask herself she would definitely be considered. Her skill would seem to lie in information acquisition, not in 'alter circumstances'.
• Cuura would be an unlikely candidate. Yet her following Sune... In a way the harpers find her the most difficulty of the group, especially as she has worked for the Zhentarim without any qualms. They still have to decide how to work with her.
• Grimwald is clearly not a harper, but as a craftsman he is very much worth being in the 'friendly' list. Reports from Naskhel suggested he did a good thing even though he paid a heavy price, so he might be willing to work in specific missions.
• Kendalan, a copper elf, which means he is likely far too 'direct' to become a member. Still, him being a druid of Mielikki means he can be trusted to work for the good of nature.
• Zhae might become a harper, once he sees that it is a good way to fame.
• Reed is ready to join.
• Nethander is on the 'watch' list.

Nashkel

All kinds of opinion float around, although the group stood up to a red dragon guarding the village, and they retrieved some farmers kidnapped by kobolds, so the worst opinion is at least neutral.

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Many guards feel they owe their life to the group. The captain isn't so convinced, but he wasn't there when the dragon attacked. The rescuing of the kidnapped farmers have given them a rock solid reputation.

• Felina people see as a lady, perhaps with some trading background.
  People find it hard to disagree with her.
• Cuura is seen as a horse trainer/warrior from the icy north.
  She is far less agressive than people expected.
• Grimwald is a smith with much craft, but no manners
  Either he ignores you, or you get a monologue.
• Kendalan an enigmatic elf, but friendlier than most expected
  Rumour is that he can see (and shoot) a sparrow at 600 paces.
• Zhae is rumoured to be a blade master. Look but do not bother.
  Silent and always training.
• Reed has people wondering: is she a bard, seer, fire mage, glaive fighter?
  The guards are very careful around her.
• Nethander looks the dangerous guy, but he is a true hero.
  He is the pupil of the swordmaster Blade.

The Red Wizards

A motley group without even one true mage, that seems at least capable in a simple standup fight. Soon they would learn about the true might of magic.

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Analysis by Nezreth, school of enchanment.

• Felina: halfelf rogue who can do some magical tricks.
  Powerword Blind.
• Cuura: barbarian.
  Confusion or Dominate then use against their own.
• Grimwald: dwarven cleric and master smith
  Offer a job, if refused lot's of evocation magic.
• Kendalan: copper elven ranger/druid
  Feeblemind.
• Zhae: human warblade.
  Charm, then Dominate.
• Reed: fire mage/druid mystic theurge
  Feeblement or a Cone of Cold.
• Nethander: swashbuckler/rogue.
  Offer a job, else dominate.

The Black Network

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The Cult of the Dragon

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