Baldur's Gate Saga RP Playthrough - Lawful Neutral Half-Elf Cleric/Mage

[Selerel]

[Day 62 Still Continued]

10PM. We discovered some elaborate soul-trapping device within the rocks. I decided to leave it alone, knowing not much good can come of it and not looking to cause more of a ruckus than we need to.

Spoiler

[Day 63]

12AM. We battled through some Kua-Toa and more drow, and eventually discovered the looming gates of Ust Natha, just where the locals said it would be. There is no way we can attempt entry into this place without assistance–surfacers are killed onsite within the city itself, so even breaching the gate forcefully is not a plan that will likely work.

Spoiler

But as Blackenrock said, I soon also discovered a dark staircase; so magically dark, indeed, that it is seemingly impenetrable. This does meet the description that the svirfneblin had about this supposed Adalon, and through this darkness seems to be my best chance at moving forward. So I head back to the gnomish settlement. Yes, I will attempt to slay this demon and look for proper recompense afterwards.

Spoiler

1AM. Fighting the Balor that the gnomes had disturbed was indeed a harrowing battle; worse than I expected. Minsc was stunned initially and was kept in a magically held state for the duration of the fight…until the demon cut him down. It took all of our summons and some interesting tactics to fell the Balor. Jaheira had no Iron Skins remaining, but she survived by going through more than half our stock of Potions of Superior Healing.

Spoiler

[One reload here vs. the Balor. Yes, it was tough. I had no real way I could think of to protect against the Stun other than keeping far away in the very beginning. In my first attempt, Jaheira failed the save but Minsc was alive. That wasn’t good enough. It was vice versa the second time, but that was enough to fight through…]

But once the demon was killed, we resurrected Minsc, read the Stoneshape scroll, and returned to Goldander.

Spoiler

10AM. Once we had the Light Gem, we re-composed ourselves at their makeshift “inn” through the rest of the morning before setting out for Adalon.

I encountered Adalon, a Silver Dragon and a type of steward of the war between the drow and the surface elves. She informs me of what Irenicus has done: stolen her eggs and threatened their destruction if she interferes with the drow plans to invade the surface.

Spoiler

She wants my party to help, in the magical guise of an “expected” party from Ched Nasad. Adalon is quite awe-inspiring, and this appears to be my only way into Ust Natha to really see what clues I can find of Irenicus…so yes, I agree. I will have to play the part of a drow with accuracy and precision, lest they discover our true natures.

Spoiler

As I enter the city, I go by the common drow name of Veldrin. The party from Ched Nasad was apparently to meet with a certain Solaufein at the Male Fighters Society, so we will make haste to do that.

 

[Selerel]

[Day 63 Continued]

11AM. The group of drow foreigners we impersonate came to Ust Natha “to seek refuge” apparently…but we are the ones who must show our worth here to gain it. I’m not sure of the reason that this party from Ched Nasad would be here. Perhaps on a holy war to slay surface elves? I realize I must go a bit further in showing my fierceness, depravity, and combativeness as a true drow. Yes, it sickens me, but this is how these creatures behave. It must be done, and done convincingly.

Spoiler

After I meet Solaufein, my instructions are to intercept Mind Flayers in the southeast portion of the main Underdark cavern. I’m not expected to arrive there until later tonight, around 9-10PM. I will take this time to look around Ust Natha and the greater area and learn what I can of Irenicus and Bodhi–and see if they are possibly still lurking about down here.

Spoiler

1PM. There is a pair of magical bracers stored in a compartment outside the Male Fighters’ Society. I leave it alone for now, but I make note of its presence…

2PM. When I entered the Temple of Lolth, I found where Adalon’s eggs are presumably being stored. However, it looks like there is no way to get to them, at least until I gain the confidence of these drow.

Spoiler

4PM. At some point, I finally made my way to the tavern to see what information could be gleaned there. Acting the part of a drow, we may have inadvertently enraged–and thus challenged–a drow fighter, Lasonar.

Spoiler

I first wanted to put off the pit fight, but I realized it may not look good for us to back down from this challenge. I am mostly confident that Jaheira should be able to defeat this drow, as she’s faced worse. Without too much preparation, I readied Jaheira for combat, and she defeated the drow.

Spoiler

5PM. In a random instant, all the plans to infiltrate Ust Natha fell apart. Maybe I got ahead of myself, but after Jaheira won her first pit match, I thought it was a good idea to keep competing. I thought Jaheira still was very capable of victory, so sent her in–unfortunately, her opponent cast Confusion, and that was the turning point of this entire campaign.

Spoiler

Under the effects of Confusion, Jaheira was still able to defeat Chalinthra. However, upon victory, she was transported outside the pit; still confused, she strucked and killed Sondal the pitmaster. In the moments of chaos that followed, the tavern as a whole (and soon the city) had sentenced us to death for the offense. We are still under our drow illusion and I doubt they even realize we’re surfacers at this point–but it doesn’t matter. These drow want to kill the traveling Ched Nasadrans.

Spoiler

[My reload with the Balor and this snafu with aggroing Ust Natha way earlier than I intended…both stem from being skimpy with Chaotic Commands for some reason. Need to LEARN TO USE IT, GAHHHH. I keep a cast of it, so does Jaheira, plus Jaheira keeps a Wondrous Recall, and Minsc can always use Berserk. Don’t know why I refuse to cast it. Maybe I'll swap out Aerial Servant for another Wondrous Recall.]

It already seemed like we were overstaying our welcome just by being foreigners, and we hadn’t even had a chance to prove ourselves to Solaufein or anyone that may vouch for us. No–in a couple hours we’ve become embroiled deep in enemy territory. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to get back into Ust Natha, so we have no choice but to do in deeper to get Adalon’s eggs. Perhaps someone in the Temple will have the key to the egg chamber? It will take all we have to simply survive this, and once I get her eggs back, I must trust the Silver Dragon will stand by her word and make all right if I can really escape.

We slayed all drow in the tavern and caught our breaths. It will be a battle to get to the Temple.

Spoiler

7PM. We battled through to the Temple of Lolth, and slew its defenders. The egg chamber was now open, but guarded by five large golems. With a summon of my own golem, and Imoen’s casting of Haste, we were able to destroy them before they could flatten any of us…although they got sure got in some deathly heavy blows.

Spoiler

During the skirmish, I had retrieved Adalon’s eggs under Sanctuary. And now it is simply a task of getting ourselves out of this city alive. My path back to the tavern should be relatively clear, but the drow may put up a defense near the merchant square by the entrance…

Current Party:

Candleblood, Level 13 Cleric/Level 13 Mage
Jaheira, Level 13 Fighter/Level 13 Druid
Minsc, Level 13 Ranger
Imoen, Level 7 Thief>Level 14 Mage

Reputation: Popular (15)

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 63 Still Continued]

9PM. I fought my way back to Adalon, and she teleported us near the exit to the surface. More skirmishes with drow and Kua-Toa, until I actually found the exit to the surface. It’s been roughly a day and a half after I took the portal out of Spellhold.

Spoiler

Chapter 6

[Day 63 Still Continued]

11PM. I’m taken into custody by an Elvan war party, led by Elhan. These are the Elves of Suldanessallar. In Irenicus’s unholy partnership with the drow, these are the elves that he ultimately schemes against.

It looks like we have a common enemy in Irenicus, and they soon come to understand that. After elaborating further, Elhan tells me that I can save his city and put an end to Irenicus’s reign of terror both. We will first have to find the magical stolen artifact the “Rhynn Lanthorn”...we likely believe Bodhi was the one who took it, and has it still.

Spoiler

And where could Bodhi be? We had raided her lair in Athkatla weeks ago, but it could be a good place to start the search. Beyond that, there has been rumors of evil in the Umar Hills for months. I had not imagined vampires before, but could it be? It’s my only possible lead right now.

But exhausted from our Underdark battles, we make camp amongst the elves until morning.

[Day 64]

7AM. Last night Elhan had recommended to me that I find support throughout the land for this coming encounter; Bodhi may be more powerful when we face her this time. The elves themselves won’t dabble in these affairs, and instead rely on me. Any other alliances forged from my time spent so far in Amn, I should seek out.

Hmm. I initially would have felt that it’s my responsbility and my responsibility alone to put an end to this. To clean up Irenicus’s horrid mess, and emerge as a renowned and accomplished hero, while keeping the personal matter of my heritage as discrete as possible. But there is also value in what Elhan has said. After all, I am the Hero of Trademeet, Slayer of Firkraag, and Liberator of Spellhold. Yes; it could be a good idea to travel the lands and rally support where I can. I daresay I have earned it for what I’ve done in Amn.

I will return to Athkatla first, to get apprised of the goings-on the city and the Temple of Helm.

[Day 65]

6AM. We traveled back to Athkatla. I met the famous Drizzt again on the way, but did not ask for his help–I did not want to come across as needy or weak, nor wished to inform him of my Bhaalspawn troubles. I have many other allies throughout Amn.

Spoiler

We reached Athkatla in the evening, and rested at the Temple of Helm. My priestly colleagues could offer no martial assistance, but directed me to the Order of the Radiant Heart.

Spoiler

There, the Paladins pledged their help to my cause. Good! Speaking with the Prelate, it’s also seemingly confirmed that the evil vampire has made her way back to the Graveyard district and the catacombs underneath. It will just be ensuring now I am in a position to face her and succeed.

Spoiler

I next pay a visit to Aran Linvail, the Shadowmaster. I inform him of the occurrences at Spellhold, and he is as eager as we are to confront Bodhi. I convince him to send the support of his assassins. While I’ve never enjoyed the fact I’m working with the Shadow Thieves, at least my dealings are on a higher level: with the Shadowmaster himself instead of amongst all of their criminal street rabble.

Spoiler

After conducting business with Ribald in the Promenade, Cromwell in the Docks, and Joluv at the Copper Coronet, I decide I’ll set off on my tour of Amn. I’ll look to rally more support and tell my allies of my urgent battles with the mad wizard.

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 69]

10AM. I set off for Greater Amn, lobbying my allies for assistance. I visited the de’Arnise Stronghold, Rasaad at his Heretic Temple, Trademeet, the Dryad Queen in the Windspear Hills, and the Druid Grove. While it was good that I visited them, it was admittedly disappointing that none of these factions could offer their support to my effort. No matter.

Spoiler

Now in the south, I decided I’ll visit the Wild Mage Refuge, if it is even still standing. Daxus the mage is still in Athkatla, but refuses to interact with me. His always-in-progress, never-quite-done “performance” is forever being readied, it seems. Perhaps I can still help the man, though, if I have Neera in tow. From the Druid Grove, I travel westward.

[Day 71]

1PM. After some monster-fighting in the Forest of Tethir on the way there, I eventually arrived back at the Wild Mage Refuge. I asked Neera to come with me back to Athkatla. She may be able to shake Daxus out of his stupor; and then I will see what type of allies I may have in Neera’s friends.

Spoiler

[Day 72]

2AM. I then traveled to Watcher’s Keep to visit the Order of the Vigil. I didn’t have high hopes they would help in my endeavor, but I conversed with them anyway. I wanted to see how things were faring here. This place looms large, and I still must conquer it to take care of whatever evil lurks inside…but now is not the time.

We made camp and then started the journey back northward to Athkatla.

Spoiler

[Day 74]

8AM. With Neera at my side, we go to talk to Daxus again the first morning we’re back in the city–and it seems it was just in time, after all these weeks. Only a few seconds after he begins to talk to Neera, a contingent of Thayans shows up to intercept us. The timing was uncanny, and we could do nothing but fight for our lives. Maybe they were watching and waiting to grab two wild mages at the same time, with Neera being the real target?

Spoiler

After the commotion we reunited Daxus with Hayes, and they began their journey back to camp. At least it is finally done, though forging any alliance with these people doesn’t seem likely. Neera sensed something was a bit off about the entire exchange with Hayes, and I don’t necessarily disagree. But she wants to run back to her camp as soon as possible to let them know what occurred here…but I just don’t have the time for it. With Bodhi now so close, and me being out in the country for upwards of a week now, it’s not wise to leave again. No, I must prepare for my next confrontation, so we part ways with Neera.

Spoiler

9AM. As I’m preparing to rest at the Temple of Helm, I transferred most of my equipment from storage here into my Bag of Holding. I see the sewer key I had gained from Firkraag’s dungeon and ruminate on it. I have kept it since before first laying eyes on the dragon; could the key be for an area under the sewers of Athkatla? After all, they are the only sewers I know of in Amn. I remember I had discovered some locked passageways all those weeks ago when searching for the Cult of the Unseeing Eye. If Firkraag had the key, it must be for something valuable. His stash of loot? The treasure and equipment might be legendary.

Normally I would not rush to enter the sewers again, but these are strange times. There could be something that could help in my battle against Bodhi. I don’t appreciate having to return to climb back down into the filth, but what I could gain may be worth it.

11AM. I quickly found the locked passageway that the key opened, below the Temple district. And fortunate thing–we stumbled upon a Mind Flayer lair! Apparently they were building some army of other illithid and mind-controlled thralls. I was not expecting to, but it looks like I have ruined their plans. I can only comtemplate what Firkraag or Tazok had to do with this, but their threats are now all over.

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 76]

4AM. We continued to rest until early morning the next day, then began our assault on the vampire lair. I did not know what type of resistance to expect, since we had slayed many of the vampires only days ago. However, it turned out to be very heavy. Bodhi must have called all of her supporters.

Spoiler

It was not a clean battle, so to speak. I ran out of spellcasts of summonses and Negative Plane Protection much earlier than I had anticipated. Minsc had been killed and energy drained in two different vampire skirmishes, and we used Vhailor’s Helm simulacrum and Imoen’s Project Image to bring him back to full strength in both cases. By the time we got to Bodhi, she was able to kill both Minsc (again) and Jaheira. Imoen and I emerged victorious after a desperate end to the fight. We permanently killed Bodhi with a wooden stake and grabbed the Lanthorn, then while it was still dark outsite, quickly made our way to the Temple of Helm in the Bridge District to resurrect the warriors of our group. We then returned to clear out the rest of Bodhi’s lair.

Spoiler

[For some reason I didn’t think to use a Scroll of Protection from Undead I had. By the time I wanted to go with that strategy, we had already used Vhailor’s Helm and Imoen’s Project Image and I didn’t want to actually use the real scroll. So pretty sloppy fight all around but I came out of it with no reloads and just fine after a couple rests.]

6AM. During the fighting in the catacombs, one of the Order of the Radiant Heart was inadventernly attacked by a berserk Minsc and claimed betrayal. In the morning after Bodhi’s demise, the Order was one of the first places I visited. Fortunately the incident in battle doesn’t seem to have grown into any greater conflict. The Prelate gives me their congratulatory regards. I’ve come far with these Paladins, a long way from my old troubles with both Keldorn and Firkraag’s illusions.

Spoiler

I shake my head at the incorrigible Minsc that led us to this situation. I had some worries about his stability when I asked him to join my party, but so far he’s proven loyal and capable. And of course, he’s my only companion capable of stealth and scouting. However, with events like this, I realize my unease with the Ranger’s mental state remains.

[Day 78]

9AM. After spending a day or two resting and recoving from the battle, during which time I forged the Shortbow of Gesen with Cromwell, we set out south to Elhan. Affairs currently seem well resolved in Athkatla, and finally putting an end to my conflict with Irenicus is the only path forward. I also have a chance to be the Hero of Suldanessallar, as well.

Spoiler

Chapter 7

[Day 78 Continued]

9PM. We have entered Suldanessallar–the entrance was actually not far from where I had passed in my travels to the Wild Mage refuge only a few days earlier.

Irenicus has been laying siege to the beautiful city with terribly powerful creatures for days and days now. We will push on carefully, yet swiftly as possible. I am to find Queen Ellesime or High Priestess Demin. Demin’s house is to the west–while Queens Ellesime is likely in the Palace to the north, or possibly even the Temple. I will search for Ellesime first, as Elhan suggested, and head north to the Palace.

Spoiler

11PM. Through a back route we approached the Palace and helped destroy a Balor outside of it. But the Palace itself is divinely sealed. I learned from a Captain Aduo’on that Ellesime is indeed inside–along with Irenicus! Gah, I must have access. I will now seek out Demin as quickly as possible.

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 79]

12AM. I encountered Demin as she was defending herself from Irenicus’s demons.

Spoiler

The way to break the Palace seal–and to access Ellesime and Irenicus–is by summoning the Avatar of Rillifane, Demin believes. I must gather artifacts for a ritual in the Temple: a talisman, a golden cup, and a moonblade.

Logically, I will make the tip to the House of the Talisman and the House of the Moon in the hopes they house those respective artifacts. The cup, I am not as sure. Maybe I will try the Temple itself? I have not yet ventured inside.

Spoiler

1AM. I have retrieved the Talisman, but our party has become fatigued. I check in with Elhan–the evacuation effort continues. I will have to rest until the morning, and will do so in the forest right outside the hidden entrance to the city.

11AM. After resting, we fought valiantly in the Temple…but no clues as to the location of the Golden Cup. There is a clearing to the west I have not yet explored. I will venture there.

Spoiler

1PM. I encounter the Black Dragon that the elves had warned me about. Rather than turning back and preparing, I decided I would kill the wyrm at that moment. With a summoned Deva and a Mordenkainen’s Sword, we were able to survive through the fight, although there were some close calls.

Spoiler

[Figured at this point I don’t have to rest and prepare for a dragon encounter…I looked at the spells and abilities I had and figured I could do it. I was holding my breath for a reload but I made it work. Risky but nice! If my character was less aggressive or more patient, I would have rested, but wanted to keep it as RP as possible.]

The dragon guarded the golden cup; with the three artifacts, the Avatar of Rillifane comes to the city’s defense. The palace also becomes unsealed–and I learned from Demin that I need to gather two more artifacts to get farther into the Palace, a Stone Harp and a Stone Horn.

11PM. Sensing the Irenicus was now truly beneath the Temple, we took a pause to collect ourselves. We spent several hours resting and preparing before we made our descent, and this is likely our final confrontation with Irenicus.

Spoiler

Current Party:

Candleblood, Level 15 Cleric/Level 14 Mage
Jaheira, Level 14 Fighter/Level 14 Druid
Minsc, Level 15 Ranger
Imoen, Level 7 Thief>Level 16 Mage

Reputation: Popular (16)

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 80]

1AM. I saved the Tree of Life, and killed Irenicus. My companions and I have grown in power surely, and my battle with him beneath Suldanessallar was trivial. I had summoned a Deva, but once Jaheira had cast Nature’s Beauty and permanently blinded him, it was barely a battle.

Spoiler

Unfortunately, when Irenicus was slain, all of us were dragged into Hell. Knowing my fate lies behind the warded door, I know I have nothing else to do but explore this terrible realm. There are several different staircases, all leading downwards…

Spoiler

2AM. In Hell, I realize I must collect the five “Tears of Bhaal” that will allow me to progress further. I slay Wraith Sarevok, and release the Enslaved Genio by giving him Blackrazor. As I’m speaking to him, I do now understand that this place–this realm–was forged from my own mind and soul. In that way, collecting these Tears are like tests. Affirmations to myself and my character. So I will make sure to deal with all scenarios with utmost wisdom and honor.

Spoiler

4AM. I collected the next three Tears. I decided to sacrifice a little of myself (my physical dexterity, again) in order to save whatever fate was in store for Jaheira. Hmph, fine.

Spoiler

The Beholders in the next room were difficult, but we found a way to survive and eventually defeat them, wisely not accepting the nymphskin cloak. I don’t currently have a good strategy against Beholders and Gauths, other than to send in summoned golems and magical swords and fire elementals. Even with Chaotic Commands and all the magic resistances we can muster, it’s still generally too dangerous for Minsc and Jaheira in combat due to paralyzation, death magic, and other spells. Maybe if they were to drink Potions of Invulnerability before facing the one-eyed creatures?

Spoiler

Finally, I would have normally been lured to slay the dragon in the final room, but I thought better of it and decided to ask more questions. Soon I realized I could get the final tear amicably and without battle.

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 80 Continued]

1PM. With our final battle directly in front of us, we spent hours making camp in this despicable place: resting and re-learning spells. Finally, it was ready to go forward. Not knowing exactly what was ahead of us, we casted Chaotic Commands, Resist Fear, and Protection from Magical Energy (for Minsc)...and activated the gateway.

Spoiler

Throne of Bhaal

[Day 81]

7AM. We defeated Irenicus, and he finally faced his ultimate end. Ah, the relief. He had been plotting against me since my time in Baldur’s Gate, in deeper and more evil ways than I ever would have believed. The Elves of Suldanessallar took care of us until the morning, but then we travel back into the Forest of Tethir.

With my tremendous victory, I’ll journey back now to Athkatla now and contemplate my next steps. What will be my direction? That is, my next discovery or accomplishment? Ah, Watcher’s Keep, of course. By now, after all we’ve been through, we must have gained the expertise to fight through that third floor demonic maze. We must eventually face the Imprisoned One.

But only moments later, I’m ambushed by a woman named Illasera and a pack of “Black Reavers”. She claims to be a Bhaalspawn too, and she seemed to imply that her attack was plotted by a larger organization.

Spoiler

After we slay her, I am transported to an abyssal realm where I exchange words with a Solar. As much as I’ve tried to achieve in this world despite of my Bhaalspawn heritage, it seems I may be eternally haunted by its ramifications. Maybe I’m slowly starting to realize that. My father, the God of Murder, is very well a defining aspect of my life in this world, and I should stop running from it all.

Spoiler

Who were the people that sent Illasera? Is she just another Sarevok, Firkraag, or Irenicus? Looking to destroy my life for their own ends? But more importantly, what are my next steps? I am far from the prime material plane.

A deathly version of Sarevok, as it turns out, has somehow transported himself here. My half-brother and first true arch-nemesis. I have an…adversarial…relationship with him to put it mildly, although I emerged a renowned hero from our previous conflict.

He demands a fraction of my soul for the knowledge to escape this place. Beyond that, the knowledge of lore and prophecy related to the Bhaalspawn. Pfft. I believe Sarevok is trying to trick me somehow; after all, what wisdom could he have that I don’t?

Spoiler

[Day 81]

4PM. I spent hours in this place but it’s now more than obvious: I do not know how to escape, and I must acquiesce to blasted Sarevok.

I wish to keep my soul whole for the trials ahead. Imoen volunteers to give a fraction of her, and we have no choice but to go through with it.

Spoiler

This place is another version of the abyssal hell I had been dragged to with Irenicus just a day ago. There are more tests and trials here that are formed by my own subconscious. Yes…I will pass these, then, too if I must.

Sarevok will follow me, and swear he won’t betray me under the bond of a geas. Hmph. Possibly it is true he may know more about the prophecy than me, and he is truly a powerful warrior. More intriguiging, it appears I can summon other companions here at my discretion, their fates strongly entwined with mine. But I put both those things to the side for now; I still must pass a “challenge”.

 

[Selerel]

[Day 81 Continued]

5PM. Once I understood how to leave my Pocket Plane (and re-enter, for that matter), I realized I am no longer in the Forest of Tethir. Instead, it is Saradush: a besieged city full of Bhaalspawn ruled by a murderous madman. It seems the fates themselves have forced me into the violent affairs of the Bhaal progeny. So be it. My first challenge will be to seek out this Gromnir.

Spoiler

6PM. I speak to the Waukeen priestess and ask her how to see Gromnir. Thankfully she provides me a key that will get me into an abandoned prison, likely vampire-infested.

Spoiler

7PM. Melissan seems like a classic example of good intentions twisted into something terrible. She must have lacked the wisdom and foresight to anticipate that clustering all of the Bhaalspawn together could lead to disaster!

8PM. Retrieved Lazarus’s spellbook for him. In the future I’ll possibly be interested in buying Spell Sequencer, Khelben’s Warding Whip, and Ruby Ray of Reversal. I will need more scribed spells as I gain more experience.

Spoiler

10PM. I attempted to speak to someone in the Barracks first. That did not end well…

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 82]

3PM. I found a way to Gromnir, and had to slay the mad tyrant. He died, but my entire party was slain in the battle. Two battle mages remained alive, and it took some unique strategizing and swift resurrection-casting to finally kill the pair. I had to flee to different areas of the castle as I determined my tactics…

Spoiler

Saradush, however, is still under siege by the Bhaalspawn Yaga-Shura, so there is limited goodwill for me among its denizens. Fortunately I can venture into my Pocket Plane at will, seemingly the only one here who can escape the city alive. And the key to defeating Yaga-Shura apparently lies somewhere to the east, according to Melissan.

Spoiler

We took refuge in the tavern for the rest of the morning, into the later afternoon. The last few days have been a whirlwind, even more than usual. I slew the all-powerful Irenicus, created a pocket dimension with my divine essence, and then the fates themselves embroiled me in this Bhaalspawn siege.

While I had built much in Amn in my short time there, I realize my unique heritage ultimately demands more of me in this world. Clearly my calling in this world is far greater than simply running the Temple of Helm in Athkatla. No; I’m embarking on a new stage of life, one in which my dark family history will become paramount.

I will save Saradush, to begin. But first, I teleport back to the Pocket Plane.

4PM. I am grateful for Jaheira and Minsc, and they have proven loyal companions through all of my trials and challenges. Jaheira especially has been with me from when I left Candlekeep all those months ago, through to defeating Aec’Letec, Sarevok, Belhifet, Firkraag, Irenicus, and all the rest. But as I enter this new chapter of life, and will likely be dealing with a myriad of godlike beings…and they are both too “provincial” in my estimation. I’ve progressed beyond them. They are a druid and a ranger after all, and more suited for the natural world than for abyssal realms and Bhaal cults. No, I won’t ask them to sacrifice any more for me–I’m going to recruit different companions.

I accepted Sarevok’s offer to put himself under a geas-like oath of loyalty to me. What he said had resonated with me, and he indeed may have knowledge of the prophecy and path ahead. I also know he can be a powerful–and yes, respectable–ally against these southern warlords.

Spoiler

Next, I call upon Rasaad. He had left me weeks ago to focus achieving his own revenge against Algoroth–on my advice. It looks like he just recently failed in that endeavor, unfortunately, and his ex-heretic Twofold clan has scattered to the wind. But the Sun Soul Monk has been a strong ally to me in the past, and with his moderate stealthing skills, he can act as a scout.

Spoiler

[Also, logistically speaking out-of-character why I switched up the group: with my C/M and Imoen, I don’t think I needed another spellcaster perpetually stuck at Level 14. Too many spells at this point. And since I was able to get Rasaad up to 80+ in Hide in Shadows and Move Silently, I think that’s good enough to replace Minsc as a scout, who my PC really doesn’t like and doesn’t have a strong history with anyway…]

[Day 83]

4AM. I was able to escape Saradush, any my Pocket Plane directed me to the path to Yaga-Shura’s realm. After some skirmishes with some fire giants and a larger battalion, I said farewell to Minsc and Jaheira. For a little while at least, they can stay here and keep innocents safe from the rampaging army. After that, it’s up to them, but they will no longer accompany me.

Spoiler

5AM. I decided to head to the Marching Mountains first, Yaga-Shura’s current home. It likely presents the greatest challenge and the greatest likelihood that I’ll find a weakness.

Within an hour, we are waylaid by Sharran cultists still on the hunt for Rasaad. Ahh, just as I had helped him try to resolve this back in Amn, I must continue. Algoroth should face justice after all he’s done, I agree. And being hounded by Sharran cultists is not ideal while focusing on Yaga-Shura.

Spoiler

From the waylayer’s belongings, I see the location of a secret site relatively close by. I will make sure to pay it a visit before I return to Saradush.

11AM. We approach Yaga-Shura’s lair…

Current Party:

Candleblood, Level 15 Cleric/Level 14 Mage
Sarevok, Level 18 Fighter
Rasaad, Level 19 Sun Soul Monk
Imoen, Level 7 Thief>Level 17 Mage

Reputation: Heroic (20)

Spoiler

 

[Antimatter]

Ohhh, congrats on beating the Shadows of Amn part! Interesting thoughts on what made you gather another party composition for the Throne of Bhaal.

Funny about the Order of the Radiant Heart and Minsc situation.

 

[Selerel]

Thanks. I like to think of Candleblood as the type of person that's embarrassed of his hometown friends and would abandon them for cooler friends as soon as he gets famous, haha. Plus he always has to feel like he's the smartest, most serious guy in the room....so Minsc with his inane comments was always on thin ice.

Minsc randomly slashing the friendly Paladin was just a nice little example of how he gets cringed at. As if I weren't the one that pushed the Berserk button!

 

[Selerel]

I like to think my character rolled his eyes too at Jaheira being Confused and killing the Ust Natha pitmaster, like it was somehow her fault. And why are we trying to impress these drow anyway?

Back in Nashkel against Neira or Nimbul, Jaheira got panicked and ran around town, and I remember I wrote about how she kept being an emotional wreck or something

 

[Urdnot_Wrex]

I like to think my character rolled his eyes too at Jaheira being Confused and killing the Ust Natha pitmaster, like it was somehow her fault. And why are we trying to impress these drow anyway?

Back in Nashkel against Neira or Nimbul, Jaheira got panicked and ran around town, and I remember I wrote about how she kept being an emotional wreck or something

Take that back, Candleblood. I love Jaheira. She's a true friend, badass, sincere, loyal, and carries her pain with a lot of strength. If you don't see that, you don't deserve her support. Send her my way, we'll team up and even the Five will tremble in fear.

 

[Selerel]

Jaheira also screamed at me and called me an idiot in front of the Order of the Vigil. Very disappointing!

Found what I wrote about that incident in Nashkel all that time ago, haha:

Returning to Nashkel, we are a tired team. After just resurrecting Imoen, we were ambushed by Nimbul. He killed Neera AND Khalid, and Jaheira had a morale loss meltdown and ran uncontrollably around the town for a long time, inconsolable and mad. I lost a bit of respect for her here. Rasaad, not in our party, jumped to help and was effective in putting him down.

 

[Selerel]

Hi everyone, I know I disappeared for a bit. I had some personal things going on...which may continue for the next few months. Nothing bad, just has not allowed a routine of BG-playing. I still haven't picked up playing again--it's overdue I switch playthroughs anyway--but I had a few Candleblood TOB entries that I've been sitting on. So with that being said, I'll post about 4-5 more times in succession here, then probably go dark again for a little while. I've been coming back to BG for 20 years now so history says I'll be back again...

[Day 83 Continued]

3PM. We fought what seemed like a endless army of fire giants in the mountains outside of Yaga-Shura’s lair. Once we got inside, the battle just became more intense. We fought our way up to the third or fourth oversized level, but eventually got forced back outside by a pack of elite fire giants. Thankfully, they didn’t pursue us farther outside, and none of us needed resurrection–but we are bloody and battered in any case.

Spoiler

These are extremely hostile and dangerous lands. I’ve the power to teleport to my own pocket plane; so we’ll rest there and continue our assault in several hours.

Spoiler

[Day 84]

6AM. Throughout the night and into the morning, we continued to battle fire giants. Eventually, we reached the top of the temple and retrieved Yaga-Shura’s still-beating heart. It’s somehow connected to his invulnerability–and I have no idea how to destroy it. I’ll have to venture farther in.

Spoiler

7AM. A terrible tragedy suddenly befell us, moments after we had retrieved what we came for. We encountered Imix, the Prince of the Fire Elementals. During the fight, with little warning, he cast Flame Column on Imoen and scorched her to ashes. The remnants of her body are beyond the point of resurrection and she is now permanently gone–my Bhaalspawn sister.

Spoiler

The situation is beyond horrible, but I know I must overcome it. My emotions swirl, but I don’t know how to face them quite yet–I will just have to keep fighting ahead, defeating this Yaga-Shura murderer ito get justice for Imoen. She will be avenged as I walk my path of fate. The stakes now are beyond life and death, if it wasn’t abundantly clear beforehand. It is sadly ironic that only hours ago she was asking Sarevok what permanent death truly felt like. Now, she knows.

But I will grieve later for my sister; let me destroy the rest of the evil in accursed Temple, then I will return to my Pocket Plane to try to understand how I move on without her…already, Sarevok has been hurt in several traps hoping to mimic Imoen’s skills.

Spoiler

5PM. I summoned Nalia de’Arnise as the fates allowed. She had wanted to journey with me, and now she has her calling to do so. Something strange had happened to her, as she’s much different than the girl I had helped only a few weeks earlier. She said there could have been some alteration of her history, her reality, and I don’t necessarily disagree.

Spoiler

She was the one of the only people I know that I could summon to this Pocket Plane and can also detect traps and open locks (to a degree). One of those ordained by the fate to accompany me on my journey. So be it.

As those very same fates would have it, the monster that killed Imoen–Imix–seemed to drop the Amulet of the Master Harper. This magical artifact is actually able to hone Nalia’s skills to the point where she may be as an effective thief as Imoen was. Well, then on we trudge, the tragedy of Imoen still with us. At some point I wil have to take the time to process it.

 

[Selerel]

[Day 85]

3AM. I located the Temple in the Forest of Mir. An illusion of Gorion tried to torment me–and it picked a good time, with Imoen just dying. But we did find that Nyalee that we were told about by the slave woman in the Marching Mountains. She did indeed possess the ability to destroy Yaga-Shura’s invulnerable heart, but attacked us moments after she was through with the rite.

Spoiler

1PM. I slew Yaga-Shura in the battlefield. Immediately after, I was transported to the Pocket Plane to speak to the Solar.

Spoiler

My history before Gorion was revealed to me. I was to be sacrificed, offered up to Bhaal by my cruel mother. I was a sacrificial piece of meat to her, meant to do nothing but die for the Lord of Murder. …Yes, Gorion saved me from that, hero that he was, and I don’t want to look back and think on it for a second longer than I have to. As a babe I had no control over any of the choices that were made, and would in fact be rid of this new knowledge if I could! That old horror means nothing to me.

Spoiler

2PM. I take on the Solar’s second challenge.

Spoiler

[THREE reloads here to beat it. I had no summonses and no skins, but I charged in headlong. In all three of the PC deaths, it was my doppleganger that activated a Whirlwind attack and just started wailing on my PC. Like I said, without stoneskin and any type of illusion, it was tough…Three reloads is basically my cue to give my character to ability to metagame his way out of it, by sensing it’s too dangerous and coming back later (if possible). Luckily I was able to do it on my 4th attempt.]

[My character should really be resting for these things. Yes he’s aggressive and wants to accomplish things…but he also wants to WIN, and is smart enough to know he needs to slow down. But there may be some extra urgency here to try to run from the fact that Imoen’s dead…]

[Day 86]

3PM. I trust the Solar, and I decide I should make haste to Amkethran, the oasis settlement that Melissan told me about–before attempting to confront these supposed villains Sendai and Abazigal.

But first, we’ll settle the score with Alorgoth. Like I said, I don’t want to have to deal with Sharran cultists stalking us, nor whatever lies and mistruths they can spin up about us between Amn and Tethyr. I’ve dealt with villains and opponents like this since I left Candlekeep, and I won’t let this Dark Moon cultist get the upper hand.

Clearly it looks like I’ll be able to disrupt a nefarious plot, speaking with the displaced dwarves.

Spoiler

4PM. After fighting some Sharrans and hearing out the formerly enslaved dwarves at the lumber camp, I realize there is a quite a risk of this tunnel dug under the river–and I’d be wise to trust dwarves on the matters of underground tunnel digging. Cuddy Dugdeep seems to suggest to ride logs down the river, but I can’t see ourselves doing that, either.

Spoiler

It looks like the front entrance assault may be the way to go. I recall a different life, long ago…way back north at the siege of Bridgefort during Caelar’s Crusade. The front assault was the successful strategy there; and after Alorgoth’s assault at the Heretic Temple, this will be a fitting recompense for him.

[Day 87]

7AM. We rested and then began our siege overnight. These were very powerful Sharran cultists, but we emerged victorious in all of our skirmishes. Eventually we were came to the basement caverns, where we continued to fight endless cultists until we came to Alorgoth.

Spoiler

He has opened a direct portal to the Shadow World! As I tried to attack his defenders by the portal, we accidentally killed an innocent dwarven clansman with a fireball. This will surely not help our reputation in the lands (combined with what happened in Saradush and what’s happening with Bhaalspawn). I well believe the Sharrans orchestrated this accident…damn Alorgoth and his evil followers!!

Spoiler

Eventually realizing that the shadow creatures would not stop coming, and we couldn’t kill them fast enough, we made a rush to jump into the portal itself–realizing we’d have to find Alorgoth and stop this at the source.

In a way, I understand I’m using the urgency of avenging Rasaad’s sibling to work through my grief at my own sibling Imoen’s death…taking it all more personally and emotionally than I normally might have.

One dwarf remained in the struggle outside the portal, fighting insurmountable odds against Sharrans and shadow creatures alike. He seemed nigh invulnerable in his final minutes of combat; some deep dwarven magic? Not having much of a choice, our party fled INTO the shadow portal. On the other side we continued to fight, facing a final battle with a horde of shadow fiends, and eventually the dust settled.

Spoiler

Sarevok is energy-drained, and we have no summons and barely any more protective spells. Praying to Helm that my planar powers were still working as provided to me by the gods…we were indeed able to teleport out from there.

For days I had never considered this abyssal realm would feel less foreign to me than whatever place I teleported FROM…but now, it is certainly beginning to feel like home. I’ve made camp here for several days now and certainly feels more familiar to me than the shadow realm I escaped.

There’s a likelihood that shadow fiends continue to spill into the prime realm in our absence, but there is little we can do to stop it at this point, whether we are there or not. We seemed to have stopped the flow at the source, so perchance that will have bought us some time. We will have to rest and recover and go back in with a strategy to defeat these monsters...

Current Party:

Candleblood, Level 17 Cleric/Level 15 Mage
Sarevok, Level 21 Fighter
Rasaad, Level 22 Sun Soul Monk
Nalia, Level 4 Thief>Level 17 Mage

Reputation: Average (10)

Spoiler

 

[Selerel]

[Day 88]

4AM. I had gone back into the Shadow Realm from the Abyssal Realm last evening and fought through the fiends that came our way, eventually encountering and slaying a Shadow Dragon. The battle was fraught, to say the least. Alorgoth looked to be trapped in the realm with whose masters he so easily brokered an unholy deal, although I am disappointed he is not fully dead. I convinced Rasaad this is all he can do for now, and I need him by my side in the Bhaalspawn travails to come.

Spoiler

[Two reloads fighting the shadow dragon. Pretty tough with no metagame prep and the level draining! And the blindness, oh Helm the blindness…]

There was still an army of Shadow creatures back in the prime realm. But eventually I was a hero to the dwarves of the clan, as they rightfully took back their home.

Spoiler

We stayed overnight as hero-guests of the Deepstone.

Eventually having slept on it, I considered my next direction. The Solar is pushing me south to the Bhaalspawn warlords of the deserts, so that direction I will go, with support of the gods and the forces greater than me. From the Deepstone Clanhold, it’s only an eight hours’ trip to Amkethran. I have full of wares for sale and some magically unidentified items, so I’m on the lookout for merchants. I’ve decided not to spend the time going to deal with the merchants and priests of Order of the Vigil outside Watcher’s Keep, which is about the same distance west.

2PM. I’ve arrive in Amkethran. I meet Balthazar, who points me in the direction of Sendai and Abazigal.

I soon realize that Balthazar himself is raising any army to likely fight these two other Bhaalspawn. There are rumors he is a Bhaalspawn himself, or that he has Bhaalspawn imprisoned in his Fortress for some nefarious purpose. He certainly seemed defensive enough about the possiblity we would find out what’s occurring there…

Spoiler

It looks like my fate may be to investigate what Balthazar is up to, here in Amkethran, before blindly moving east. Without further direction from either the Solar or Melissan, I want to get a handle of what’s happening here in this village first.

Spoiler

Initially, there’s talk that the smugglers may know a way in. Hmm, I may pay a visit to their cave soon enough.

6PM. It appears I didn’t arrive in time in order to enlist the help of the smugglers; their camp was being broken up by Balthazar’s Monks as I approached.

Spoiler

After a few more hours (and resolving the lich problem in the tombs), it looks like my options are run out. I have no way to get into Balthazar’s fortress. I teleported back to the Abyssal Realm to see if the Solar had anything of interest…but no.

 

[Selerel]

[Day 89]

1PM. I journeyed to, and found, Sendai’s Enclave. While originally I may have wanted to speak to Sendai to get an idea of her motives and more of the context in which that these southern Bhaalspawn operation…but it looks like she is only out for blood. So be it then, this is my destiny.

Spoiler

6PM. Drow, spiders, dwarvern berserkers, and umber hulks abound. There was to be no talks or peace, assuredly.

Spoiler

After five hours, with no spellcasts left of summons or stoneskin and the tunnels of Sendai’s headquaters clear of monsters, I decided to hold my assult until nightfall. We teleported to the Pocket Plane to make camp and prepare for the next phase of the attack.

[Day 90]

5AM. I have slain Sendai, but at the great cost of Nalia’s permanent death. It turns out her fate was to be my companion for the final six days of her life. The fates are cruel, truly. When–if, I suppose–I return to Amn, I shall make it right with the de’Arnise estate, or what’s left of it.

Spoiler

I am told than Jan, the illusionist and thief, can be summoned to be my companion. Previously, I’ve only had the most superficial of interactions with him, yet I know he’s an Athkatlan citizen and adventurer of…odd…renown. Even at this point of my journey, I will need a companion that can detect traps and open locks, so I summon the gnome to join me.

Spoiler

Current Party:

Candleblood, Level 19 Cleric/Level 16 Mage
Sarevok, Level 24 Fighter
Rasaad, Level 25 Sun Soul Monk
Jan, Level 13 Illusionist/Level 15 Thief

Reputation: Average (11)

Spoiler

 

[Urdnot_Wrex]

Welcome back, glad to hear you're alright. Wishing you success with whatever it is that keeps you busy IRL and with finding more time for yourself again some day. *Occasionally* there are more important things to do in life than playing video games [ducks and runs]