Faolin Devers

[Sir_Carnifex]

A fancily-dressed young man stood on the rolling deck of the rickety ship, Sea Troll. He was gazing across the blue waters towards the huge port city of Baldur's Gate. It was still some distance to go, but just seeing his old home distracted his mind slightly from the troubles of his trip.

The sea voyage from Waterdeep was rather rough and he didn't take to the water very well anyway. Not only that, but the entire crew was gruff and rude, the ship reeked worse than a sewer and the food was the worst he had ever eaten. The only thing that could have made his trip worse would have been pirates, but fortunately, they had run into none of those. He anxiously watched as the ship neared port.

Only a short while to go... The captain said about an hour...

"Ahoy, matey!" Someone boisterously gave Faolin a hard slap on the back that nearly caused him to fall forward . "Hah! You ain't got yer sea legs yet, I see."

Faolin swung around to face the man who had addressed him. The man was considerably shorter, but extraordinarily muscular. His clothes were ragged and filthy. Tattoos covered his body. He was the complete opposite of Faolin. The sailor grinned, revealing a near-toothless mouth, then he exhaled sending a wave of foul breath directly into his Faolin's face. This time, the dandy nearly fell backwards.

"She's a fine sight ain't she? I never get tired of seeing that place. Don't set foot on land too often. Ye gots to take advantage of the taverns when ye gets the chance, ye does. O' course, we have a goodly stock of drink aboard, but that stuff wud prob'ly cut right through yer stomach, sonny."

The presence of the rough sailor made Faolin wish even more that he hadn't thrown his money away gambling. If he hadn't he could have afforded a good ship with decent quarters and crewmen who minded their own business. Now he had to suffer intolerable company.

"Th' way yer dressed, ye'll probably be hittin' the high part o' town, now, won't ye? My, but I ain't got any recollection of ever seein' that kind o' finery come on this ship ever." The sailor fingered Faolin's perfectly-tailored silk shirt with his grimy hands, leaving a stain upon it. Faolin looked down in dismay. He was having an extraordinarily difficult time keeping his usual cheerful disposition under these conditions. He was saved by the captain who happened to swagger by.

"Hey, deck scum! Get back to work and leave the passengers alone! We're not in port yet, so we don't take breaks!"

Faolin wanted to shake the captain's hand for getting rid of the pest, but the captain was nearly as dirty as the sailor. Instead, he smiled and gave a friendly nod. Turning around, he once again faced the city. He sighed.

Only fifty-five minutes to go...

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

I finally disembarked from that filthy ship. It's not fit to transport a herd of cattle, or even pigs, for that matter! Regardless, I'm finally back in Baldur's Gate where I want to be.

One of my first stops was at Maltz's shop to purchase a little equipment after I had picked up a decent set of clothes from Lucky Aello. All the saltwater completely ruined my last set. Sadly, I'm all out of coin now and need some way of earning some, much as I despise the idea. Maltz, the old fool, had the nerve to ask me to pick up some supplies for him in Beregost. I refused him initially, but he insisted, and since I do need a little more weight in my purse I agreed. Still, I cannot believe that Maltz doesn't recognize me. Perhaps it's best that he doesn't considering where I am right now.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

A farmer just outside Baldur's Gate asked me to hunt some wolves for him that have been preying upon his livestock. If it were not for my lack of funds, I wouldn't care anything about his stupid animals. He should take care of his own problems! Yet, here I am, doing another menial task! It's not so much killing the wolves that bothers me, but I hate to get all bloody from skinning them. If I find someone to go with me, maybe I can convince him to do it.

I was fortunate my wish for help came about. I found a couple of new adventurers to "help" me clear the wolves. Holden Darkfield and Anna Nefzin were their names. For some reason they seemed to think that I -- of all people! -- was experienced and should lead the way! A little help was better than none, anyway. I even managed to get those two naive people to do most of the skinning for me. They still wanted to give me a share of the gold they got, but I refused it... just this once. They have to have a little incentive for doing all the work, but next time, I will take my fair share of the profits.

During my travels, I came by some equipment that I had no use for, so I tried selling it to some stranger in town. He bought it willingly, but gave me the impression that I was robbing him with my price. But considering what Maltz sells the same item for, I think I'm the one who got robbed! I definitely was not myself at the time. Perhaps I shouldn't have had those drinks before trying to barter...

After that fiasco, I once again I returned to Maltz's shop for a few odds and ends. On my way out, I encountered a strange pair. One of them was a half-orc -- big, brutish, and obviously highly unintelligent. I had a little fun with them by speaking a bit in an "unknown" language. The confused looks on their faces were payment enough for having wasted the time to talk to them.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

While walking by the palisade outside Baldur's Gate, I came across the drow that the city is hunting. I have to admit that I was nearly shaking in fear (fortunately not outwardly) but since I was cornered, I saw no way out of that situation except to bluff my way through and hope she didn't gut me then and there. Instead, she took me into a cave to show me a sample of the power I could have if I aided her. I have never experience being able to down a horde of enemies with just a few sword thrusts before, but whatever she did allowed me to clear the bandit caves in short order. I didn't exactly relish the task, but the alternative was no more pleasing.

While we were in there, an adventurer came upon us. When he realized he was spotted, he screamed in terror and ran, only to be promptly slain. I felt sorry for the poor fellow, but there was nothing I could do about it. Still, he did prove one thing: I would have been dead had I tried to escape like he did.

After that, I took my leave. Despite my natural fear, I find this particular drow intriguing. I just have to remember that family-based jokes don't go over well with the drow.

Shortly after that episode, I met an elf by the name of Pandoriah on the coast way heading toward the Friendly Arm Inn. I couldn't miss her with that outlandish pink suit of armor. She warned me to run away from a particular drow should I happen to come across her. Too little, too late!

We decided to join together since we both wanted to head to Beregost. She cleared all the bandits or whatever it is we came across on the way there, so I wasn't about to complain about her company. We made it into town easily enough, but I knew I couldn't count on my luck to get back should she choose not to come along. She didn't.

I had to make use of several potions to allow me to survive running through the gauntlet all the way back to Baldur's Gate. Fortunately, my barkskin potion lasted just long enough for me to escape most of the gnolls around the that abominable fortress of theirs.

So here I am, back in the city with Maltz's supplies in my pack, not to mention a few years taken off my life. I have no more desire to run errands for merchants -- or anyone else, for that matter.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

I had been avoiding Baldur's Gate and the nearby areas for quite some time, being content -- or trying to be -- to pass the time in the lowly town of Beregost. After my encounter with the drow, I decided that it may be best to lie low for awhile and see what happens. I thought perhaps that the Fist would grab hold of her within a short time, but I have heard no word of it.

But that was a few days ago. I am quite disgusted with living like a commoner in this backwater hole. I shall return to the city and seek my fortune there.

Perhaps my return was too soon, as an unexpected situation arose. I became caught up in the Fist's attempt to apprehend an Orc accused of robbery. I hadn't intended on helping initially, but gaining the favor of the local law enforcement struck me as a good idea. I can always use connections. Besides me, there were two members of the Fist, plus a volunteer, so there was little personal risk involved.

We caught the orc after a protracted chase through the Cloakwood forest and into the abandoned mine (that place was filthy!). For awhile I was left alone with the Orc to guard him. I took the opportunity to see if he would be of any use to me in the future. Ha! I discovered that he's too stupid to be of use to anyone, and definitely too stupid to be involved in a bandit ring (working with humans, no less!). I think he's innocent of the crimes of which he is accused, but who am I to oppose the law? If he hangs, it'll just be one less half-orc to deal with. And that would be a good thing for everyone.

Unfortunately, on the way back, he escaped due to the intervention of an outsider. I do not see why a person would waste any effort to save such a creature. Thankfully, the day wasn't a total waste. The senior member of the Fist said he would mention my assistance in his report. I don't doubt I could join their force if I so wished - not that I would ever consider it.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

I had heard of all the stories of the recent battles between the Red Wizards and the Iron Throne before, but I had never had the misfortune of being in the middle -- or even being within sight -- of on of their altercations. I hoped that everything would stay that way, but two events proved otherwise.

I had entered into the Beregost region only to be confronted by large band of Iron Throne soldiers. Just at that time, the entire ground began to shake violently and I had to struggle to keep balance. Others ran up to see what was occurring and soon there was quite a gathering present.

Demons they said. Before I could glean any more information, what they said became reality. Some fell creatures materialized right in front of us and began to assault the soldiers! I and a few others gave what aid we could, but it did not prevent many from dying. The whole thing was a slaughter!

The soldiers were crying out that the Red Wizards had betrayed their agreement about a dragon. At that instant, the Wizards themselves attacked and the onslaught began anew. The streets were filled with so many dead bodies that it was a struggle to walk without stepping on one. To end it all, the wizards cast some sort of spell that caused the soldiers to begin dying. I know not what it was, but it effectively cleared the remainder of the Throne. I have never seen such a mess!

Several men, including a Fist member, began clearing away the corpses that littered the streets since nobody from the town itself seemed so obliging. I suggested that the Temple of Lathander might set about task later. I had no desire to touch any of those carcasses for I had already done more than my part.

* * *

The Fist was very quick to respond to the Red Wizards' attack. I have just arrived in Beregost a day after the battle to find a considerably large detachment of their mercenaries occupying the town. I shall have to commend them for their quick and decisive action.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

With all the recent happenings, I had been neglecting somewhat the business I am supposed to oversee. Considering all the trouble with the roads -- bandits, abominable creatures, drow -- I don't foresee any lucrative trade in the near future. Still, I need to attend to some of the shipments, so I have begun to make frequent trips between Baldur's Gate and Beregost. I would much prefer not having to do this, but I am the only one who can survive the trip and we cannot afford to hire any help at this point.

There has not been a whole lot in the way of impediments to my recent travels. A few goblins and the occasional ogre cross my path, but I can deal with those easily enough. Despite the relative ease lately, I always expect the worst, so I tend to look for good company to pick up along the road.

My last trip, I convinced some monk or cleric of Ilmater to accompany me. A healer is a convenience I prefer to have and she seemed willing to go for no other reason than to be that. I might as well take advantage of any free service I can gain.

We arrived in Beregost just before nightfall and it was too late to conduct any business negotiations, so we decided to stop at an inn. While in there, I offered her a decanter of wine and we traded stories and backgrounds. She told me hers, I told her half of mine. It made for a very enjoyable evening.

But now, all I have to look forward to is another day of battling back to the city. I shouldn't have to do this.

[Sir_Carnifex]

A man in a bright blue surcoat sat hidden away in a corner of the Helm and Cloak slowly sipping wine. As he set the goblet down, he smiled, congratulating himself on his recent good fortune.

His mercantile endeavors hadn't been going well when he had first arrived to take over for his relative who had died. Running a legitimate trade in the current times is a struggle under ordinary circumstances, but with the Red Wizards selling anything from highly magical items to small trinkets at low prices, success is almost an impossibility. Yet, he had done it. He had begun to win against the odds -- even if he had to resort to smuggling and contraband to do it. Anything to avoid those tariffs.

He stopped his thought process momentarily to drain the rest of his wine but soon began to gloat to himself again.

That monk of Ilmater was easily -- is easily -- fooled. What more could one ask for -- a personal bodyguard who requires no pay. Sure, he had been "generous" and given her a small token of gratitude (or rather, he had given it to Ilmater through her), but that was a small price to pay. He could probably even get her to carry the package for him someday...

He arose, walked to the bar, and placed a few coins on the counter.

"Thank you, Mr. Devers. I hope you had a pleasant time here," the innkeeper said as he scooped up the gold.

Faolin tipped his hat in reply and disappeared out the door.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

The roads never were safe to travel, but these past few days have been much more treacherous than the previous weeks. There are the usual goblin hordes, ogres along the way, and other such creatures, but in addition, there is now the fear of shadows, and, according to rumor, a vampire.

Recently, while traveling the Lion's way, I observed a light in the distance. I drew near, curious as to what it was, only to encounter a raging battle. A small group of adventurers were furiously assailing a large shadowy (I can think of nothing else to describe it) creature. Just as it seemed they had subdued it, another just like it (or the same come back again? I do not know) arose behind me. I recall drawing my sword to defend myself, but then I fell unconscious.

Upon awakening, I found myself engulfed in a black cloud. The group that I had found were nearby by discussing what had occurred, but I did not gather much from what they said. There was mention of dragons, shadows, and others creatures.

All but one of the party departed, so I joined with the remaining and traveled to Beregost with her. According to her, my small involvement in that brief scuffle made me marked by these undead and that I would be hunted mercilessly. I cannot say if she is right or not, but I certainly will be more prudent in my curiosity in the future. For now, there is nothing more to do but go about my business once more.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

I stopped in the Burning Wizard for a little relaxation this evening only to find quite the opposite. The place was overflowing with patrons of all kinds and barmaids scurrying across the room serving drinks as fast as they could. Not that I should be unhappy about the inn doing good business, but I was hoping for a quiet evening in front of the fire. Ha! I was dreaming.

The first thing that happened was a brawl between a halfling and a man. I didn't bother watching, but I gather the hin was the victor as he soon came across to bother a group at a table. I'm glad the annoying runt removed his presence shortly thereafter.

The innkeeper asked me to tell a story to help calm the rowdy crowd. As luck would have it, there happened to be two other bards inside as well, one whom I recognized from a previous night. He and I entertained the crowd for some time before most of the patrons retired (or fell asleep).

What began as a rather hectic night turned into something good for a change. I wish that would happen more often.

Faolin's Poem:

In the days of old when men were cold
They'd sit beside a fire
And then would unfold stories untold
As the bard strummed his lyre

The crowd did stay and let the bard play
And tell a story very grand
Of goblins and gnolls, and great big trolls
That never ceased to roam the land

But the center of all was a warrior tall
Who carried a fearsome blade
He was armor-clad and always had
A vicious scowl displayed

Glory he sought but it was all for naught
For he loved to down a flagon
Til one day he fought and rescued distraught
A princess from a dragon

The knight married the lass and had riches en masse
He gloated about his fortune and fame
But by his wife he was beaten and he wished she was eaten
By the dragon who spouted red flame

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

Dark clouds again...

It seems I cannot travel without encountering these. I approached a couple of bystanders on the road on my way back to Baldur's Gate when all of us were enveloped in an inky darkness. Our vision was so blinded we could barely make out shadows flitting about and it was impossible to tell one another apart.

As we all thought it would, the darkness was accompanied by the appearance of the undead that have fearful people wagging their tongues. I could not count how many of the foul creatures we dispatched ... the number was too many to count. No sooner would we deal with one wave then another would beset us.

Ramset. One of those fighting alongside me mentioned that name. It sounded similar to what rumors I had heard before but I wasn't positive of anything until some huge creature loomed before us. This was the notorious Ramset everyone had heard of... an undead lich king apparently.

Whatever it was, it toyed with the lot of us for some time and we tried to fight it off to no avail. Only the timely arrival of a mage unknown to me and his powerful magics drove off the lich. We were very fortunate to have survived that encounter. I, for one, did not believe we had much chance that day.

Traveling the roads grows increasingly difficult with each passing day. I must make note to stop less often in the wilderness.

[Sir_Carnifex]

From the Journal of Faolin Devers

I had been spending some pleasant days relaxing in Baldur's Gate away from all the hectic infested roadway. Unfortunately, that time passed and I once again found myself making a trip to Beregost this morning.

I do not know what it is - perhaps just bad luck, perhaps something else - but anymore when I make any journey I inevitably run into the Ramset family. The one bonus to the darkness that surrounds everybody is that I can stay back away from the fighting and none is the wiser. I see no reason to risk my life on something that I more than likely cannot harm. Chances are I would be hit by my own companions were I to step in, so it works for the best that I stay out of the way.

Luckily, I survived once again and now I hope to reach Beregost soon. Business is necessary, but I will not be spending any extended amount of time there as I wish to return to the city as soon as possible.

[Sir_Carnifex]

The fancily-dressed young man sat alone on one of the wooden benches inside the circle of caravans beyond Wyrm's Crossing. He planned to begin yet another journey to Beregost at sunrise, but with the few hours remaining until that time, he focused his attention on a little notebook he carried. The bright glow of the fire before him illuminated the pages enough for him to read.

So it was that is mind was intent on his task that he failed to hear the soft foot falls behind him. He felt the icy tip of a dagger tickle his throat and a whispered voice demand he drop his gold. Tense, yet still composed, he thankfully remembered that he never kept a large sum on his person. At the order of the unknown robber, he dropped the small change purse he carried and stood there until there was nothing but silence for a time.

His first intention was to inform the Flaming Fist of the robbery, but thoughts gnawed at the back of his mind. With a shake of his head, he decided to take his loss and not speak a word of it.

[Sir_Carnifex]

Faolin shuffled through a few papers on his desk, then set them aside and pushed his chair back. Keeping records was such a chore, he was glad that was over for the day and he could sit back and relax for a time. His arms unconsciously folder behind his head as he stretched his legs and leaned back.

He thought back to the time he had been staying overnight at Beregost in Feldepost's Inn. To while away the evening he had written a rather silly piece of poetry, one that would, he hoped, make a person laugh no matter the mood. Plus, it was good for himself to distract his mind for a time from business matters.

He had been pleasantly surprised how the audience had taken it that first time he recited in the the Burning Wizard. He had even gotten high praise from a real bard! Faolin wasn't one to let anything get to his head, but he had to admit that moment he was floating. But that was with a happy audience.

A few days later on his way back to Baldur's Gate, he had been approached by a woman. He was rather taken aback by her almost-too friendly manner and cut her off, thinking that she was perhaps one of the street girls. Her reaction was what he least expected and she ran away from him up the Trade Way towards the goblins.

Feeling a bit ashamed that he might have been the cause of someone being hurt, or that he had somehow said something wrong, he had rushed after her, and in a last desperate attempt to be on her good side began reciting his tale while running along behind. To his surprise, she stopped and laughed, and he had realized what kind of power it really was to be able to charm a listener...

That was many weeks ago. He could still hardly believe what that chance encounter had come to, nor how it had ended. Or was it really the beginning?

Faolin arose from his seat and strode to the door. It was time to go find the new Mrs. Devers...