The Tribune
Tells the truth, exposes the coast
Issue 1
Arkaine HalfOrken Is The Biggest Bully In The Radiant Heart Auxilary
By: Dave Counterpunch
When I originally began my investigation, preceded from news of an increasingly aggressive dispute spawning casualties between Hoarites and the Most Noble Order of The Radiant Heart. I slowly became enamored by the concept of showcasing the professional-political achievements, experiences, and righteous agendas overseen by the current-day Grandmaster; Arkaine HalfOrken. Not because I believe it’s imperative to conduct a tedious, eye-rolling investigation when other current affairs demand attention...By: Dave Counterpunch
Furthermore, the Radiant Heart has an abysmally controversial history; their image battered by the multiple moles and Zhentarim informants who have undermined efforts to fight economic disparity and humanitarian goals in Triel.
It is disheartening a once-great Order has been run to the ground due to corruption and incompetent non-corruptive minds alike inevitably making waves for mercenaries only interested in wage theft, half-truths, and dodging justice through strategic misinformation and coordination setbacks in delivering supplies to the still-mourned town of Triel.
However, let us venture back for clarity’s sake, to figures of political power and larger than life personalities. As they are entertaining, people look up to them or judge ruthlessly, and most notably they’re lives are public affairs-- prompting a defiance of secrecy.
I was a little surprised regarding the uncalled for reaction I received on day one, not to mention the ultra-hawkish growling given free of charge.
Dave:"I want to expose any injustices, and seek out the honesty behind this and perhaps put a stop to future confrontations between you and this guild."
Arkaine Halforken:"You're a liar."
Dave:"What started this conflict?"
Arkaine Halforken: "Begone from me."
This was just the beginning mark down the sad path of realizing the implications of this Grandmaster’s diplomatic abilities were creating a recession of peace and destabilization of respecting territorial waters. I had the privilege of speaking with many intelligent, cordial, and caring people of illustrious and common backgrounds who all had something to say about Arkaine.
I shall organize the rest of my report into “bullet points”, comprised of an amalgamation of information regarding Arkaine’s alleged questionable exploits all the way to him being deceived by Hoarites whom were deceived by a silver-tongued woman (according to Ameris Santraegar) known as Desrah Asher.
1. According to Talisen; Arkaine wanted the Flaming Fist to arrest Dreadlord Xavier. No doubt, this is a deplorable soul, but at the time his only apparent “crime” was being in the farmlands. gnie*Little did Arkaine know that Xavier was here on official business, and had a meeting with the Dukes. Despite Xavier being a powerful figure for an insidious cause empowering the oppression of the disenfranchised and reprehensibly responsible for the enrichment of the powerful and upper-echelon chosen only, it does not help forward the Chapterhouse’s edge nor their efficiencies to improve the realm. When you are a prominent leader held in high regard such as Arkaine, whom argued and threatened the Fist for a while, until a large group of them came and escorted Xavier to safety; leaving Arkaine yelling up at their walls. Your flag of honor is reduced and have tragically tilted now-resentful Flaming Fist’s outlooks towards the Zhentarim’s now high-up-in-the-sky-banner. It is the last thing we as a Baldurian Nation wish to tote as a mission accomplished.
2. Moreover, a few months back Arkaine murdered a group of sailors for paying homage to Umberlee. Of course, nevermind the fact Baldur's Gate has one of the largest temples to the Sea Queen on the Coast. Khazark Kahanak commented in light of this, “I heard he despises Umberlee. Something I was offended by, as I attend mass at every high tides. Something a lot of Baldur’s Gate citizens do.To upset the biggest temple of Baldur's Gate, when the city resides within Umberlee's anger...” I questioned Talisen further on Arkaine‘s handling of Umberlee worshipers, asking if he assaulted them due to law-breaking,“Well, he might tell you otherwise but that's the gist of it, I suppose... it takes only the slightest thing, the slightest hint of 'evil' to send Arkaine over the edge. And when Arkaine goes over the edge, he is devoid of reason, a murderous brute. He has a record of attacking people for worshiping deities he dislikes, but who's worship is not illegal.” There is other cases of sir Arkaine exhibiting hyper-vigilance, I spoke with one of his newly-ordained squires, Henrick. “Mind informing me what he felt necessary to apologize and be humble about?”
“The first time we met, he had confused me with an outlaw from Roaringshore, you see. Needless to say, my reaction was somewhat... flustered. We managed to clear things up before either of our honor was overly slighted, if you catch my meaning. He then took a knee and humbly asked my forgiveness. I could do nothing but give it. He admitted being at fault.”
“I still am a bit boggled here... what convinced him you were an outlaw?"
“My appearance, perhaps. I'm not really sure."
3. I spoke with a man named Aidan outside the Friendly Arm Inn, “I've not seen Arkaine do anything to anyone in nearly a year. Oh there was some child out here, tried to take some coins out of someone’s pouch, he witnessed it and grabbed the child by the arm. And was going to cut his hand off. The last time I saw him do anything it was to offer to cut a childs arm off for stealing a coin. Every horror story I've heard along the coast thus far, has Arkaine somewhere in it. I offered to take the child to the orphanage.” I replied over the crowd’s hub-bub, “Because that would be a more moral solution to punishing and instilling virtue, probably.Then chopping someone's hand off...” Aidan nodded, “Agreed. I heard he once slew two half-orcs along the trade-way because they killed Myla Joriam's boar summon. Apparently, they were hungry and were on the hunt, saw the pig and killed it. Arkaine... if he's ever out of the city, tend to go out of my way to avoid him.”
4. An earth genasi in well-forged, bright-white full plate preferring to stay anonymous was reading a book, a dragon skull by his feet before he informed me: “Arkaine beat me to an inch of my life before throwing me in jail for a crime I was acquitted of. In my defense, I nearly killed him in that fight, and he had his god on his side, apparently.”
“Why did he feel this was justified?”
“And as far as I know, because an Earth Genasi killed some people in the Gate and all Genasi look the same, obviously.”
“So, you were discriminated because of your race?...”
“Far as I know.”
5. I spoke with Cecilia Lafayette at the alegarden in the East Gate District.
“Did sir Arkaine adequately organize meetings for the Order, and would you espouse sir Arkaine listened to advice?”
"When Eliphas was not present, I acted on his behalf as his Squire. Most of the organisation of meetings, and other tasks, especially public relations, were handled by myself on initiative.Arkaine was rarely around, save for when something were planned or drew his interest."
“What were his reasons for being absent?”
"I could not say. He was likely crusading, or attending to matters elsewhere."
May you describe sir Arkaine's relationships with his squires and various Radiant Heart members; did they receive encouraging attention and enough guidance?
"Arkaine had no squire during my year of service. . . .Aside from myself, there was only one other squire. Ronin Marcus, of Helm."
Cecilia Lafayette:"I was under the tutalage of the Grandmaster, after Beric disappeared that is. Ronin was under the wing of Brother Ameris Santrager."
So pooling from my memory, you were saying sir Arkaine was squiring you for a time frame. How would you describe these interactions and lessons? *He smiles widely, asking in highpitched tone*
"Oh no no, prior to being squired by Eliphas, I was under tutulage by a man who named himself Beric Engel. That lasted a month, however, until he disappeared."
"Indeed. Both mentors I had whilst in the Order were Zhentarim infiltrators. The Order was purged however. Cleansed of it's taint. At least taint which was sourced by the hand of vile gods."
We have broached a few facets of sir Arkaine's capabilities in his Order, however, have you ever had any disagreemetns with sir Arkaine, inconsequential or serious?
"In the interest of full disclosure, Arkaine and I have clashed a few times in the past.Both within and after I left the Order. It ranged from minor disagreements of ideals and philosophies during meetings, to the much more terse topic of paladin virtues. . . "
"My decision to leave the Order was based on these things, and others. It remains dear to me, however. It has to chance to become something great once more, as was the intention with the purging. A phoenix was expected to rise from the ashes. . . I am saddened to hear that is not the case, however."
Dave: “I hate to pry, well half way do, half way don't. Can you give a solid instance of a clash of idealistic values between you and the Grandmaster? So, you are definitely not satisfied with the route the Order has gone down then.”
"I am, for lack of a better word. . . disappointed. Arkaine and I seem to clash on these major points, or have done so in the past; humility, observation and method of action among other things.It is metaphorical, of course. A philosophy. With the Order shattered and crumbled at the exposure of Eliphas, it had reached it's lowest point. Yet sometimes it takes being reduced to complete ash for things to change. A forest burnt brings about new life, a building demolished to make way for something new, a phoenix sacrificing to be reborn. It is important to understand that none are perfect, and it's only by realising these imperfections can they be fixed.The Order can become something great again, under the right conditions."
“What conditions do you think sir Arkaine was holding back on? "
“Arkaine remains with his head and heart stuck in the past, and is set in his old ways. He remains shut off to the idea that the newer generation have things to offer. In face, on numerous occassions has referred to me as a petulant child, worthy of only seeking his presence in fifty years when, and I quote, "when you have done half as much good as I have in less than ten."
To answer your question on what Arkaine was holding back. . . The Order is a faction which, although boasts brotherhood and unity, remains cold and rigid under an iron fist. Perhaps this has worked in the past, but a fist only shatters. . . it cannot be offered in aid. The manor has become less of a home then the stables in the courtyard, a pecking order which looked down on and overruled those whom had not been in service as long as others or who were deemed incompetent when compared to the unshaken leaders at it's foundation. Perhaps that is. . . harsh. And Arkaine has done many good deeds for the Coast, and the Order. These remain, however, in the past. He is a hero of a war passed. Arkaine claims the youth lack experience, and while this is true. . . if I seed is never given a nutured chance to grow, it will wither and die or will grow awkwardly and twisted. One should always be open-minded to the ideas and suggestions of youth as his is where new perspectives are offered, and fresh insights can be viewed with an appraising eye. Being a leader requires flexibility, dexterity over brute strength. At least in my opinion. It does not mean compromising morals or ideals, but it means +
eing willing to take on advice and work as a unit."
“Alright, so he is resolutely stubborn in hearing advice and council of others, especially younger ones. I couldn't pinpoint his age, personally. Ameris informed you left the Order due to Eliphas' betrayal, I understand if this is a painful subject to wade but is this the only reason behind your choice?"
"After all, it is why Sir Rokranon implimented the leadership of three prelates over one overruling grandmaster."
“Perhaps I should ask around if three prelates are still being enacted there.”
“Ah. I should have known this would come up eventually. Oh, it isn't. It is a concept I think would be beneficial to the Order, with the right parties involved and not simply those who would pander to the desires of one person. As for my resignation from the Order. . . There are a few reasons, and I do hope you will bear with me as I lay them out for you. I should note, however, that I speak in no way to discredit or publically shame the current Grandmaster, not do I hold any resentment against him. Arkaine was given information pertaining Eliphas' treachery and infiltration many weeks, even months before he was exposed. He did nothing with the information. It wasn't until I was able to uncover it myself with the aid of others, and expose it, did he claim to have known of it. Additionally, once Eliphas was exposed for the traitor he was, the Order was left leaderless. I took it upon myself to handle public relations at this time, as we awaited the dawning of a new era. With the gauntlet stolen, Arkaine voting himself leader +
and then not leaving his chambers for a month when action was needed. . . the Order crumbled. It had been purged, but the spark was seemingly never lit for it's renewal.
The voting process was one in which a new grandmaster to first be nominated. A pool, if you will. Candidates worthy of such. From the nominations, votes were cast at a knighting ceremony. Arkaine and I were both nominated for the position of Grandmaster. With one vote each from the two senior knights, it was left to a tie. Arkaine had a vote, also. Humbly choosing to ignore the voting process and cast it on himself.Admittedly, I was young in comparison. Freshly knighted after the exposure after the grandmaster, yet Arkaine's reasons for voting against me were rather. . . how do I put this. . . poignant."
Dave: "Indeed. It rather defeats the purpose of a vote if everyone voted for themselves. We are judged by others, after all. Sometimes they see things we cannot.”
“My nomination actually went to Sir Lance of Lathander, though he was not present and has not been in a long while. I did not have a vote, however, as I was not a senior knight. It was not so much voting against me as it were voting for himself over me, which I do not fault him for. He certainly had more experience under his belt and accomplished a great many things, even if those things are now several years old. Sir Ferragus and Sir Arkaine did both speak against my nomination under under the notion that rising from Squire to Grandmaster was simply unheard of and that to be an effective Grandmaster one needs the experience to do so. They both nominated and voted for each other, which left a tie. Thus Arkaine changed his vote for himself once the Chancellor said it being allowed, though somewhat unheard of itself."
6. I sat down with a priest of Ilmater, and a famous harper agent named Ameris Santraegar, at the temple of Ilmater. He was one of the few people I could find speaking affably about sir Arkaine’s credentials and accomplishments. However, I was a bit confused when he offered to send my letter to Cecilia Lafayette (who was residing in Cormyr at the time), but never did.
Dave: “Telia told me Arkaine was tricked, and ambushed; subsequently killed. Can you verify these claims?"
Ameris: “I have heard the same, indeed. A crime.”
Dave: “I find that odd hoarites would be working with zhents...
Ameris: “Well, it is a sad story. A woman lies behind it, you see. A lady with a silver tongue, I think she tricked the Hoarites into thinking she was a damsel in distress."
Dave: “Desrah?"
Ameris: “That would be the lady."She's not a damsel in distress. She associates with Bhaalists and assassins."
Dave: “She was attacked by Arkaine the hoarites claimed... because she is the leader of the Dragonwing crew, and their friendship with the hoarites is quite noticeable, and both groups have fought sir Arkaine." This is exceptionally revealing.How regular did the Radiant Heart speak in a collective, and would you say sir Arkaine listens to advice?"
Ameris: “I suppose my concern was that Tegeus, the priest who attacked Arkaine, has been here helping with the plague. And then I find out he lured paladins to be attacked for the words of a woman who, well, as I say. He calls those who venerating the taking of life, brother.”
Dave: “Perhaps, these differences can be resolved before its too late, shame when someone works wrongly under false pretense."
Ameris: “I am a man who has much forgiveness in his heart, these days. I am sure if Tegeus sees his error he will know he has been misled. I'd even see the same for Desrah if she truly repented this attempt to wield others as blades rather than owning her sin.Anyway. You asked a question about the Radiant Heart?"
Dave: “Indeed."
Ameris: “Well, brothers trust each other, that is part of it. it is why the betrayal of Eliphas Valkarian and Beric Engel cut so deep. Its not for me to speak of what lies behind oaths. Yet know that although we had a chain of command, all voices were heard. Of course my commander was Eliphas Valkarian, not the current Grandmaster. I served with the Grandmaster as Brother. And he listened to counsel, and I took heart from his rhetoric."
Dave: “I see. But sir Arkaine held a somewhat pivotal position, yes? Did Sir Arkaine exemplify a hands-on approach in terms of attending fundamental meetings and seeking conferences with other high-ranking figures?"
Ameris: “Not then. He was the senior paladin, but beneath the Prelates.In the field I would serve under him but in counsel we were a brotherhood."
Dave: “Alright. So what was the current-day Grandmaster tasked with back then?"
Ameris: “He was the Brother Paragon. Senior paladin. He led the host when Prelates weren’t present.
Dave: “So, did he have a squire or squires to watch over and give guidance to at any time?"
Ameris: “Let me think."We all mentored aspirants. It is the way the order recruited back then. I wonder though, why do you ask these questions of me? Is the Grandmaster too busy?"
Dave: “I have tried repeated times to come into contact with him, and when I do, he refuses to answer a single question for reason beyond my understanding.”
Ameris: “I see. Well, I might?I was not aware this interview would be about the Grandmaster."
Dave: “He employed a somewhat taunting attitude towards me, he loomed over me and got very close in my personal area. It was perplexing, to say the least. But yes, I would be interested to know of any squires he gave guidance to, and if it could be described as efficient and helpful?”
Ameris: “I was not party to his mentorship of his squires. He was always very helpful to me.”
When I relayed my source; Talisen, that sir Arkaine was not compliant with healing and curing being supplied to Triel, and Khazark Kahanak’s statement Arkaine had to have th concept bashed into his skull; Ameris decried the information. “Then Talisen is mistaken. Arkaine was not in command. And indeed obeyed Eliphas' orders not to engage. Both before the disaster, and after.”
Dave: “Any cases of over-vigilance in the Grandmaster's behavior you may be can harken back to?"
Ameris: “Arkaine is a paladin of Helm and a resolute defender of this city against evil. His deeds, as I said, are a matter of record. He has slain champions of evil, and demons and devils alike. But these deeds are known."
Dave: “Have you ever had disagreements with how sir Arkaine manages duty and religious codes within the order?" His tone is objective-seeming, setting his gaze on Ameris afterwards.
Ameris: “Well, no. Such was not his role while I served the Order."
Dave: “How frequently have you seen sir Arkaine engage in fighting and bloodshed, and is it pervasive?"
Ameris: “Several times. We have fought beside each other several times against a range of enemies."
7. Edward, a local merchant around the Friendly Arm Inn said, "I hear he makes an arse of himself every chance he gets, and that he's a real arrogant fellow. I also hear he brought a bunch of his lackies to the inn once, claiming he was the authority around here. And started attacking people for little to no reason. Just on the suspicion of them being Zhentarim."
Tegeus commented, "He has slain countless orc raiders and undead beasts... I witnessed him bearing arm against a flaming shadow just south of here. Beyond that, he does little good that doesn't satisfy his own bloodlust. Look for a lass named Erza and Ink. Their testimonies were damning in my investigation."
A woman named Faye shared, "I might put in, the last dealings I had with the Radiant Heart was the acceptance of drow sympathizers. The name is familiar. Perhaps the one that tried to recruit me to their cause, of course this was before it came to light they did not serve justice, rather than favortism of their own."
...favortism, unsatiated bloodlust, lawlessness outside the Friendly Arm Inn? Something told me I had to get back to the East Gate District to educate the Grandmaster on his own sanctimonious dogma.
Dave: " Are you familiar with Helmite dogma? It am about to read it aloud outside the Radiant Heart Chapterhouse... Would you care to accompany me?"
Gasten replied: " I try to avoid religion its a plague."
"It am trying to strike home a point, sir."
Gasten: "I guess I can watch."
I ran to intercept a druid named Ivan, " Sir! Would you like to read this Helmite dogma with us outside the Radiant Heat Chapterhouse?" I showed him a document with the Helmite dogma.
Ivan: "Well, no, I don't want to do that."
"Sir!" Dave intercepts Revenark Stonehold. He shows a DOCUMENT. "Would you like to read Helmite dogma with me outside the Radiant Heart Chapterhouse?"
Revenark:"Why? Ye joining the Radiant Heart?"
Dave:"To bring awareness to the Grandmaster of Helm's principles."
"Hmm I be guessing ye be having a disagreement with the lad then?"
A man glanced at Revenark, and I."What is it?"
"Would you like to read Helmite dogma with me outside the Radiant Heart Chapterhouse?"
Bystander: "Why would I want to do that. That sounds like a waste of time?"
Dave: "To bring awareness to the Grandmaster of Helmite principles. I think it is worth it."
Bystander: "They are pretty much aware, I think."
Dave: "Would you say all of them, or just some?"
Revenark: "Soooo what be ye issue with the Radiant Heart?" Revenark AGAIN.
Dave: "I don't have an issue sir, I wish to bring the principles of Helm to the Grandmaster's attention. Oh a new person."
Revenark: "It be what ye saying, but I'd be thinking he'd have to know it. Unless I am missing something."
Dave: "Sir, would you like to come with me to read the dogma of Helm aloud outside theRadiant Heart Chapterhouse?" I showed him the document. “Did you know Arkaine knew about Eliphas the Deceiver being a mole within their ORDER, and didn't' tell anyone the information?"
The man responded, " Sure, let me get some basic supplies first."
"I find that hard to believe," Revenark now.
" I will be right here, excellent. The information came directly from Cecilia Lafayette."
“Well the order wouldn't allow scheming, but a simple calculation to know Eliphas was being manipulative would of been appreciative for everyone's welfare. I am Dave Counterpunch, by the way."
Revenark: “Counterpunch?"
8. I met a beautiful woman named Awnrette, and had some drinks with her at the Friendly Arm Inn to discuss her experiences with the Grandmaster.
Awnrette: “Well. Let me start with who my friend is. Or was rather...” Sighs a heavy breath. “Her name was Ink, a little shou lass, about my size with hair jet as onyx.” Awnrette smirks, then continues. “I was never one for ladies, I have quite a few guy friends... but there was something special about her that I really liked. She had charisma. Also she taught me the ways of Sharess and Bastet." She takes a deep gulp of ale. “Mm."
Dave: “I am familiar somewhat with Sharess.. but not Bastet. Oh well."
Awnrette: “Anyway she became a dear friend of mine and I looked after her on the coast and had adventurers with her. Even gave her a ring like this.” She shows him a ring.
Dave: “So an advisor and teacher.. someone you had vested admiration into.” I dropped my eyes to the ring, examining it carefully.
Awnrette:“She wasn't very well off so I helped her with her stuff. Oddly enough she only fought with a stick because she was what she called a "pacifist" and would only knock peoples clocks."
Dave: “You are adept in shadow-stepping then. A sentimental gift for sure."
“They are somewhat rare pieces... The third I've owned, actually.Then on that fateful day she was witness to one of Arkaine's temper tantrums. He had a suspected necromancer cornered. He was convinced that this necromancer was about to unleash some kind of deadly spell upon him... I believe, and he was in the process of raising that great mace of his to smash him like a bug. Present was Merek and like I said my dear friend Ink."
“I see. That seems like a climatic day.... I have heard others equate him with being a hulking primitive, and if I think I know where this is going well... it would not be an inaccuracy.”
“So what happened next was pure tragedy. My friend Ink was so convinced in doing no harm to those who haven't stuck first and all, she's a "pacifist" but she couldn't stand back from what Arkaine was about to render. My friend Ink took out her blunt striking stick and was using words more than her stick, though she was striking Arkaine, to try to deter his rage and unrelenting mace beatings. The necromancer was good and dead I heard at that point.”
“Whom was Arkaine unleashing his rage and unrelenting mace beatings upon at this juncture?"
“So Arkaine turns and my poor friend Ink, only a waif gets swatted by the heavy mace... Ink was a very disciplined person. I don't think she would have imagined this paragon of justice would turn to kill the next thing near without word so quickly. Without word or warning."
“He actually killed her?"
“I believe at that point another man stepped in on Ink's behalf and got similar treatment."
9. Arkaine showed over-suspicion towards a helmite he later recruited as a squire, as elicited by Edward and Tegeus.The Death Cult Conspiracy.
Edward: “I just remembered! There was this one time, where Arkaine falsely accused and insulted Henrick Webber of being part of a "Death Cult"."
“ I was trying to learn more about that from Henrick himself."
“When he realized his mistake, he begrudgingly and not-so-meaningfully apologized. I came to find out later that Henrick joined the Radiant Heart later."
“What... how come he thought Henrik was apart of this death cult? Hello gentleman! I am Dave Counterpunch."
“I'm not sure what he meant by Death Cult, honestly. I just know those were the allegations. Just having a friendly chat about Arkaine Half-Orken."
Tegeus: “Arkaine's involvement renders anything... unfriendly."
Arakes Gatsan: “This knight's horse musta pissed on more than a few folks travellin' packs then. If I think far enough back they've always been a bit overzealous an' leanin' toward violence."
Tegeus: "He believed the squire to be a Myrkulite?"
Arakes Gatsan: “Favortism as yeh mentioned earlier is a powerful motivator. Even among knights."
Tegeus: "Because the Orc is a thrice-damned fool."
Edward: “I'm not sure. He approached Henrick, ranting ravenously about how he "saw him" and "witnessed him" meeting with evil cult members. Called him a "death cult member". He called him many more nasty names I don't rightly remember. Then some more folks --"
Dave: “A knight should always be courteous in his words, even if he doesn't like someone. No pottymouthing..."
Edward: “Approached and Arkaine said something about "Beware, we are in the presence of servants of Evil!". The ridiculousness. How can a man call random passerby's evil?"
Arakes Gatsan: “Sounds a bit like the Knights I used teh know...though they didn't allow orcs in the order at the time."
Edward: “Then he realized his mistake, and begrudgingly apologized to Henrick. Henrick later joined the Radiant Heart."
Dave: “Begrudgingly? Henrik told me Arakine took a kneel?"
“He took a kneel. But his tone was not sincere. He was in the presence of many, and appeared a fool."
Tegeus: “Revealed his true nature."
Dave: “Well, can we go back down memory lane, for the yore sakes...what were his precise words please?"
“I believe one was.. "Evildoer"..."Assailant of Evil".”
“Do you know anything about the Grandmaster's disputes with a local Hoarite Guild; Led by Tegeus and Talisen?"
Henrick pauses a moment, pensive, before answering. “I know some. It is said these Hoarites operate outside of the law of the Duchy. They reside in Roaringshore and gather cut-throats and brigands to their cause. Naturally this would be an issue with the Grandmaster. They have been reported murdering those they deem guilty, taking justice and vengeance into their own hands.”
“Word on the street is Tegeus has slain him twice somehow, and I had been vexed because I thought their philosophies although different still held similar enough concepts to not come to blows with heinous villainy at large.”
“Can you please offer me any specific murders they have committed in the name of vengeance?"
Henrick: “You are not wrong in that. There are greater evils at large, and it saddens me to waste energy on petty disputes. I am not privy to that specific information, yet am certain it has been passed on in earnest.”
Dave: “Indeed, I would think it'd be petty somewhat as well.” He purses his lips before moving onto the next question. “Are you privileged enough to be educated on Sir Arkaine's public relation affinities entailing the Dukes, and other organizations and holy orders of prestige?”
Henrick shakes his head, tensing somewhat at the question.
Dave: "The ceiling in here is high, why do they make it so high?" Dave chuckles at his odd query before inquiring, “How many times have you witnessed Sir Arkaine resort to violence?”
Henrick: “Personally, I have seen him issue one challenge to honourable battle. He nods curtly. What is the meaning of these questions?"
“I have heard from many sources, some wishing to remain anonymous they've experienced violence perpetrated from his mace so I am rather desiring to get to the heart of the matter. And was the challenge met on a field of valor?”
“The challenge was not met. A group of men, some masked, stalked away into the local wilderness while taunting him. I believe they were attempting to draw him out where they could ambush him. He did not take the bait, and waited instead at the arena where the duel was to take place."
Dave: “If you haven't seen him be aggressive needlessly, have you sighted him casting threats towards anyone, and under what motivation?" He centered an ASSESSING backwards glance around the temple before turning to Henrick with an illy-described visage.The journalist squints down at some media-papers he would be tweaking with a feather pen, experimentally.
Henrick: “The conflict with the masked men I had mentioned. He was certain of one of their identities, and naturally wary of the masked hooligans. Words were exchanged. Things grew tense. His motivations were quite clear: To rid the Gate of known villains. I trust he meant well, though I do not know much more of the situation.”
“I see. What redeeming qualties does Sir Arkaine have?He certainly got them out of there then."
Henrick “I've only met the man a few times, yet his intensity is apparent. He is wholly committed to the people of Baldur's Gate, to their protection. I also sense great resolve within him. Also, he has humility, and is able to apologize”
“Mind informing me what he felt necessary to apologize and be humble about? He is also a half-orc, which I am sure is a great role-model to combat others of the ethnicity painting a negative connotation."
“The first time we met, he had confused me with an outlaw from Roaringshore, you see. pausing
“In all that pristine white regalia! That is quite the shock.” He laughed along. “Sounds like a fascinating tale, really. Needless to say, my reaction was somewhat.. flustered. We managed to clear things up before either of our honor was overly slighted, if you catch my meaning. He then took a knee and humbly asked my forgiveness. I could do nothing but give it. He admitted being at fault.”
“I still am a bit boggled here... what convinced him you were an outlaw?"
“My appearance, perhaps. I'm not really sure.
"I suppose wearing a hood could be construed as shadily-dressed. But anyways. And the less honorable, selfish personality traits would be? I am thinking it may be over-vigilance, as one.”
Henrick crosses his arms. “I will not besmirch the man's name. He conducted himself in a respectable manner, given the situation."
10. Arkaine is responsible for releasing dangerous arachnids throughout Baldur’s Gate. I spoke with Edward more about the subject.
Edward: “Basically.. something happened in Baldur's Gate. Arkaine and a group of others, including the Phoenix Company people came into the possession of an evil artifact. Arkaine, with not so much of a thought to the well-being of those around him, took the artifact and immediately started bashing at it, attempting to destroy it.
Dave: “Indeed, were there scholars around that could of learned more before he rushed to this action or...?
“The Artifact was unharmed, and in retaliation started letting out drowspeak all over the place, then rather large spiders poured out of the artifact, attacking those there and the townsfolk nearby. Yes, there were plenty of qualified people, but his immediate response was, "It's evil, I must destroy it without a second thought!""
Dave: “That is flat-out horrendous.. everyone getting defenselessly pumped with a terrible toxin..."
“He put the people of Baldur's Gate and the people around him in danger because of his zealous, thoughtless actions. Now said Artifact is in the possession of the Dukes”.
Dave:“How were they able to take the artifact without causing further harm? Probably some of those qualified people..."
“
Edward: I'm not entirely sure. It is my guess that the fist had to clean up the mess."
Dave: “How many casualties were there?"
Edward: “I am also not sure of this. I do not believe so. Though the lack of casualties does not discount his abhorent, thoughtless, action. It just shows the competency of the fist and those there to protect the townsfolk."
Dave: “May you present to me some other names who can give a coherent, accurate report of what occured?"
“I'm sure Koryeneer Sentinel could give you a more accurate report than me."
“One of the now-celebrated war heroes there, probably.."
“Yes."
“Anything else important about the artifact to share? I am ascertaining it is of drowcraft.."
“Not exactly, other than that it was drowcraft.I hope what I've provided helps, however."
“It's in the Dukes's possession, but is it being experimented upon by Candlekeepers or other wizards at their leisure?"
“I'm not sure.Though I believe some talks of giving it to Candlekeeps vaults have taken place.”
I ran into Koryeneer Sentinel, at Roaringshore.
Dave: “Edward said you were one of the war-hereos who contained the threat, too.”
(Koryeneer facepalms)
“That is about right. Arkaine tried to smash a relic. He is a stout fella and I think well intentioned but like a rock sometimes he is. I spoke to Teo guide of Candle after the battles.He said that the artifact was taken away by the Dukes. It wasn't much fight from the spiders really. There were just numerous.”
“Right, and it may be given over to the Candlekeeprs since they exclusively tinker with magicaly objects (according to Edward)....What kind of spiders?”
“Shite I do not remember. The nasty kind? As far as spiders go I am no expert. It caused quite the ruckus though. Not heard much on it since but tha is cause I got so many things to do.”
“Do you know what sir Arkaine said before he decided to do this rash action?”
“No clue I stumbled upon the aftermath and wreckage after said smashing of the artifact.”
“Luckily no casualties right but some injuries maybe?”
“A few injuries for a few yes. Not anything that was not handled in quick fashion.”
“How serious were the wounds sustained... and whom might this of been?”
“None that I saw. There was some rumors of a Duke being whisked up into the Fist Compound after the spider attacks though.”
Dave: “Perhaps he was bitten, or he had something do with delivering the drow artifact there?”
Koryeneer: “Perhaps. I was more intrigued by its origin as it has some history with a former group I was in. I suspect many drow raids are coming soon. Many of them followers of her.I suspect one that they have been looking for for some time as well. Maybe they will find a different way to get it back but raids are the common form of action they take initially.”
“Jeez... Perhaps they should (the dukes) let them gave it to curb blood soaking the lands more...”
“I am not sure that is the best course of action but we know the raids will not stop if they conclude it is in the possesion of the Dukes.”
“Do you think they already know?”
“Well I am no expert on that. A guy like Teo would have more answers than I on that. Unless the drow could feel that thing be smashed I would think not.That and Arkaine only dented it.Which is a feat in itself actually.“
Dave: “Probably just an instinctual defensive magically-activated mechanism the artifact releases when it's hit."
Koryeneer: “I would think many relics are warded against being harmed in any way.”
11. Former squires and current squires have slippery, semi-contentious relationships with Arkaine. I met with Tegeus Cromis, a well-known and respected cleric of Hoar in the Helm & Cloak.
Tegeus: "What do ye want, then?"
Dave: “So, let me guess you were minding your own business... the fun-repressed half-orc strode up, with the perpetual inability to express himself verbally, and he starts looking for ways to fight you?"
"I addressed him in debate, and Ameris took my side against him, but the Orc is... an idiot. Steel is used to enforce Justice, not decide it. Not understanding this simple principle.... he challenged me to a duel then and there.Ameris challenged him to a duel then, taking my side over the knight's.The Grandmaster seemed not to care who he fought."
“I wouldn't of expected that."
"Nor I."
“So, he was willing to fight Ameris? Additionally, are you aware of any animosity between them now or in the past?"
"Head Watchknight Sveta Asperan was able to dissuade them from fighting, however, and managed a peaceful solution. Ameris is fiercely loyal to his ex-comrade."
"Even he, could see that the Paladin was in the wrong."
“How did the conversation go between Ameris and Arkaine? Right, because you were just there to participate in a charity event and not to be nagged into violence. Arbitrary violence."
“Arkaine spewed idiocy and flawed thinking as he always does, misunderstanding the most basic concepts of Justice. Ameris tried to explain that the knight cannot lawfully challenge me to a duel that I would not consent to. Three moons past Arkaine sought battle with me and some companions.... he and all his squires were slain."”
“But you found a way to bring them back to the living, or...?
“For the deaths of his squires, to whom I wished no ill and was forced to slay, Sveta commanded me to raise them, rather than fight the Grandmaster."
“So, can you recall the first thing Arkaine said when he ventured to the Tourney Grounds?"
“He queried the fact that I was to spar with Ameris."
“I am merely curious to how fast this escalated towards considerations of dueling planned outside the tourney ground.. I mean if he really wanted to fight you he could of jsut fought you in the ring."
"He believes me a coward, and asked whether I was to flee or fight. All confrontations between Arkaine and another are escalated by him, I can assure ye."
“Well, this isn't comforting for someone with such power in his hands.Have you noticed any dissent among his squires? When he instructs them to do tasks?"
"Only that of the Sunite, Erza. She often disagrees with his brutality, but the others are his loyal servants, to my knowledge."
Not only was my investigation blocked at every corner by Telia who was constantly counseled by Ameris Santraegar; a manipulative Harper Agent who tried his hardest to delay my investigation and lie about delivering a letter to Cecilia Lafayette-- but there is a history of Telia being a mastermind manipulator; her ability to pardon all charges of treason in collaboration with Zhentarim forces and how easily she can become the majority stockholder of The Herald reflect this. Telia, while working with the Zhentarim as their lead magus, devoted her time to main-streaming and designing a more approachable image for their cause.
Before her change to “redemption” she lied about Harper Agents not being able to deliver a cure to the people of Triel. When in reality Zhentarim were dogmatically cutting down anyone who dared offer succor or sustenance.
All of this information was procured from an old paper she wrote for something called the Lightbringers Project.
It is unheard of to be fired from a newspaper merely because you do not agree with the perceived controversial, edgy content within. Normally, you tell someone, perhaps send us something different next time? Or, maybe we can tone the harshness of these words?
Like the economic oppressors who slam Beregost with unfair taxes; there is a similar evil manifesting itself out there.Somehow religious inequality advocates, miscreants, the unwashed, and the unloved meticulously earn a permanent foothold in the name of lawful-meaning, wholesome values. It must be hard on the Gods. Regardless, telling the facts, and naming the names is necessary so the fire of freedom can persist to burn.
The invincible will of the people, progressive philosophizers, and the media have means to haste the revolution caravan this beleaguered, plague-surviving nation screams for. The caravan is alive. The caravan of freedom and justice. You only have to make your protesting voice heard above the media-censoring rage of the reform-resisting storm.
A note from the editor (Charles Sun)
I believe in the importance of a newspaper for Baldur’s Gate. One that comprehensively monitors misinformation to keep those in power in check. Being inspired by Dave Counterpunch's humanitarian efforts... I also believe in the validity of a newspaper’s duty to entertain and educate the readers of it. Unfortunately, I have cancer in my brain and won’t be living much longer. In the mean time, I will be finding an appropriate editor to take my place. We will be publishing articles sporadically with no set date for release right now... just to ensure our presence is felt in this chaotic time.OOC: Once, the inbox is up I can release some more articles worked on by me and redrage1
.. and yeah the newspaper formatting needs work.
