[PF-1e] Parabellum Games

[Eviltedzies]

Originally Posted by Ermine;

Can we have custom casting traditions, too? I already designed one, but I'll keep the name private until the reveal of the full character. It's specific to a small group of people (4 total).

Custom Casting traditions are allowed with the caveat that you can have no more than 6 drawbacks. Obviously I need to approve the tradition. (Will update the main thread)

Originally Posted by Ermine

-CAM: Intelligence
-Type: Divine
-Drawbacks: Anemic, Center Of Power (scales over her heart glow when she casts or concentrates), Emotional Casting, Somatic Casting (2, must be able to freely dance), Substantial Magic
-Boons: Sanguine Empowerment, Deathful Magic, Empowered Abilities

Approved

[MundayKnight]

Originally Posted by Eviltedzies

Kind of funny to me that the name is Whip "Boxer" when the Boxing sphere is nowhere in it lol, but that is purely a fluff observation. Mechanically the tradition is sound. Also assumed you meant the "Axe Kick" talent instead of "Ace kick."

The curse of phone posting. Also whip boxing is a thing and includes no boxing. Blame Australia.

Edit: Also unrelated but somehow my brain has decided that the parabellum games calls for a character heavily inspired by professional wrestling.

[Battlechaser]

This might be a strange request, but I’m requesting summon spirit from the death sphere. I want to summon the spirits in the remnants of the victims from the monster my PC is hunting. So these hands will be possessed by vengeful spirits. So piecemeal reanimation to animate the hand, summon spirit to have it possessed, parts and pieces to have them count as animated objects and to grant them feats with the militant animation feat. And then tomb of flesh to transport them.

Now to find a way to have the hands come together and form a mega-undeadmech.

[Eviltedzies]

Originally Posted by MundayKnight

The curse of phone posting. Also whip boxing is a thing and includes no boxing. Blame Australia.

Well..... I learned something new today. Love good old Australia insanity. Whip Boxing it is!

Originally Posted by Battlechaser

This might be a strange request, but I’m requesting summon spirit from the death sphere.

Summon Spirit is allowed [Though see Lore note below]

Originally Posted by Battlechaser

I want to summon the spirits in the remnants of the victims from the monster my PC is hunting. So these hands will be possessed by vengeful spirits. So piecemeal reanimation to animate the hand, summon spirit to have it possessed, parts and pieces to have them count as animated objects and to grant them feats with the militant animation feat. And then tomb of flesh to transport them.

Your idea is totally valid and an interesting twist to the Grim Hunter trait.

Originally Posted by Battlechaser

Now to find a way to have the hands come together and form a mega-undeadmech.

If you go Wraith with the Path of the Corruptor you can technically possess your animated undead. Not quite a mech but similar in concept. (IE: Combine undead and master into one). Also might help to look into the Necrotic Marionette

@Battlechaser - Seeing as how you are going the Necromancy route (a personal favorite I suppose?) I should at least throw out that the views on Necromancy in this setting vary depending heavily on where you are.

 

Views on Necromancy Necromancy is by its vary natured viewed with fear, suspicion, and disdain by most civilized folk. In most countries it is illegal to practice necromancy and even where it is tolerated it is often heavily controlled and monitored. Of the major kingdoms, only Arrhakor, Baalreisan, and Soul Terra allow the practice of necromancy though each have their own stipulations to them. Arrhakor is split between the northern barbarian tribes and the patchwork territories of the south. The barbarian tribes are horrified by necromancy as they see it as a violation of their ancestral spirits. This makes necromancer's essentially kill on sight to any barbarian tribesmen with enough bravery to or insanity to take one on. The southern territories however see the value in a mindless untiring workforce gained from reanimating corpses. Despite this they remain suspicious and numerous superstitions involving such practices make them extremely wary of trusting any practitioners fully. Baalreisan sees the practical military applications of necromancy, but due to popular perception of the craft generally keep it heavily policed and more importantly out of the public view. Those wishing to practice necromancy within Baalreisan must apply for an expensive license and are required to annually reaffirm their skills in their craft at the main mage's guild run by House D'Sang. Those who do not are stripped of their license and if caught practicing will suffer severe consequences. Soul Terra is the only country to openly acknowledge Necromancy due to it being one of the fundamental schools of arcane magic. An entire college exists within kingdom dedicated to the study of the craft, though just like in Baalreisan necromancy is heavily monitored and controlled. Necromancers are required to register with the main guild and pass an annual exam to acquire or renew their license. Though many forms of necromancy are considered taboo by most kingdoms, only two aspects of the school are outright banned in Soul Terra. Any magics dealing in the manipulation of the soul or the creation of sentient undead are strictly forbidden in Soul Terra. Modern Era Debate on Reanimation and the Soul By far the largest controversy with the school of Necromancy revolves around reanimating corpses. Over the known history, necromancers who attempt to reanimate undead without using any special preparations run the risk of calling a soul into the reanimated corpse. This can range from the original soul of the body, a foreign soul, or at worst a malign spirit. Even if the original corpses soul is returned, they are more often than not twisted. Stories of souls coming back filled with malicious intent, plagued by insanity, or worse are not uncommon. Should something darker find its way from the other side into the host corpse even worse could happen. Much of what is known to modern day necromancers was learned from the past horrific failures and deaths of many a necromancer and innocent bystander alike. Generally speaking, mindless undead possess no soul if reanimated properly. All novice necromancers regardless of the origin of their knowledge are taught various rites or how to craft trinkets with the specific intention of preventing any soul from accidently crossing over during an animation process. So long as these teachings are abided by most reanimations run no risk of accidently calling a soul. Of note, undead brought into being through temporary Conjuration or Summoning magics do not suffer the same risk of calling a soul as re-animated undead do. Scholar's theorize that this is due to these summoned undead already having existed elsewhere prior to being conjured.

(Added this to the main lore post as well for others)

Note on Your Idea: Given that the souls would be willing to return to the pieces of their bodies, this would not be seen as badly by educated necromancers. (Though most would agree your character would have put himself at great risk making the attempt) Most non-casters however would not know the difference or even be able to tell a soul was imbued into the corpse to begin with.

[Ermine]

I have everything but art and RP sample (but art is coming along slowly). Trying to come up with more of an RP samplr thaan "Yippee!"

[Eviltedzies]

Originally Posted by Ermine

I have everything but art and RP sample (but art is coming along slowly). Trying to come up with more of an RP sample than "Yippee!"

You've still got 3 weeks before the deadline and I doubt I'll hit the 16 completed app limit I set lol. Take your time and enjoy it. Let me know once you've posted your app and I will add it to the table.

[Ermine]

Here it is, the long awaited, still artless, app!

Application Name: Aisling of the Lunar Flame Race: Xada   Xadu (pronounced SHAH-doo, singular Xada (SHAH-da), adjective Xadun (SHAH-dune)) [Total: 15RP] Breathe, Drink, Eat, and Sleep as normal. Age: Live as long as elves, but are considered an adult at 21. Type: Humanoid (draconic) [0RP] Size: Medium [0RP] Speed: Normal [0RP] Ability Scores: +2 Str, +2 Dex, +2 Con, +4 Int, -2 Wis [4RP] Languages: Common and Draconic. Those with high intelligence scores can learn Catfolk, Dwarvish, Elven, Goblin, Halfling, Sylvan, or Undercommon. Fearless Confidence (Eternal Hope) [2RP]: Xadu gain a +2 racial bonus on all saving throws against fear and despair effects. Once per day, they can reroll a d20 roll that resulted in a 1, using the second result. Death Sense (Soul Seer) [4RP]: Xadu gain Deathwatch as a constant spell-like ability. Slapping Tail [3RP]: Xadun tails can be used to make an attack of opportunity dealing 1d6 bludgeoning damage on a successful hit. Warrior Culture (Static Bonus Feat) [2RP]: Xadu gain Extra Combat Talent as a bonus feat, but must select the Berserker sphere with this bonus talent. FCB: Bard - +1 bardic performance round per day FCB: Hedgewitch - +1/6 hedgewitch secret FCB: Prodigy - +1/6 of a magic talent FCB: Symbiat - Increase the number of rounds the symbiat may use psionics by 1 Classes: Prodigy 10 Archetype(s): Void Dancer (no 7 link teleport) Alignment: True Neutral Primary Party Roles: Off-tank, Damage Dealer Character Sheet: Eventually Home Kingdom: The North of Arrhakor, among the barbarian tribes. Campaign Trait: Glutton For War (campaign), Wild Soul (region, Arrhakor, Scent) Picture: Physical Description: Aisling has draconic horns and a scaly, jagged tail, with patterns of red scales on her fair-complected body. Her straight, red-to-blonde hair reaches just past her shoulders. Deceptively strong despite being so thin. Rabbit-like ears which match her hair are on top of her head, and she has blue, slitted eyes with an almond shape. Hints of fur grow around her scales. Her hands are in a combat ready position at all times. Her double set of canine teeth are in surprisingly good health. Personality: Obsessed with blood and battle, like the rest of her people. Just like the rest of her people, she believes she will be reincarnated when she dies, something she'd prefer to do in glorious battle against a worthy foe. Not that she wants to die any time soon, of course, and she has no interest in fighting unworthy foes unless forced; it's not fun if it's not a challenge. She believes her people's place will be cemented as normal citizens in Baalreisan, instead of being the targets of discrimination, if enough of them win in arena battles in the colosseum, and that people will know of them as capable warriors. She knows most of her people would enjoy a romp in the arena, almost as much as she herself. She fights for the thrill of battle, not the outcome of it. Backstory: Part of the wandering barbarian tribes of Arrhakor. She's on the path to ascension to replace her peoples' "waxing moon goddess", as she is supposedly the reincarnation of the "full moon goddess." These goddesses are technically just very powerful mortals, glorified shamans, and powerful warriors, and can be of any age when they supposedly ascend. The appointment is obviously for life, but there are 4 stages (full, waning, new, and waxing), a goddess for each, and these stages progress in order as the previous stage's goddess dies, becoming the new leader of the tribe. Her role as full moon goddess was determined when she was born and was "recognized" by the family of the previous full moon goddess. Most of her life, she had a hound she named Cú an Bháis. She was an edgy child when she got him, but didn't regret the name at any point in her life. While her people don't have a formal military (they all "serve" if able when the time for battle comes), she would often be relied upon as a general-like figure, even in her youth, because of her fierce intellect, clear skill in combat, and status as the next leader of the tribe. Cù an Bháis died of old age not long before Aisling left her homeland, which was surprising since she took him into battle with her. Aisling is the last of four children (the others are named after other warriors). They were all raised by the entire tribe, which mostly meant play-fighting with various weapons. She discovered she was best with farming implements-turned-weapons, particularly the scythe. Not that the children used real weapons, of course, but when she was older and actually doing real battle. She was always the victor as a child, and made obvious by her continued survival, as a teen and young adult. RP Scenario: Aisling Aisling waited at the tavern for a response to her bid for citizenship. This, of course, meant she'd have to fight in the Volker Macht Colosseum, something she knew she'd enjoy. Battles to the death against beasts from all corners of the world? That was her dream. If this was to be how she was going to get citizenship and a place for her people that valued their views, she hoped that they would be worth fighting. She wondered briefly if she would be granted a place to stay as a victor of the Parabellum Games, but came to the conclusion that living on the fringes of society would probably be better for someone not accustomed to city life. All that waited was getting the news, and this is where she was asked to be by the attendant. She awaited the courier with anxious glee. She expected — no, KNEW — the people here would see her prowess and cower before her if they were intelligent enough to fight. Barring that, she carried with her an ordinary, but wicked-looking voidglass scythe. She didn't trust anyone else to enchant it, so would put bloody runes on it when the time came, when battle was imminent. Just then, when she was deep in her musings, but not in her cups, the courier arrived. The young lad was no warrior, but a scrawny and gangly human teen. She was almost offended that they'd send their weakest to greet her. She'd be more offended if this young one was to deliver bad news. Her face was stony at the thought, but when the courier found her, he held out a scroll dramatically. "Welcome, mistress...Ayez ling to the Parabellum Games!" Mispronunciation of her name was common in these parts, but it still bothered her. She was ash linn. But it was only a momentary concern. She let out a loud cheer that clearly struck short-lived fear in the courier. "Celebrate with me, young one! Now is not the time for fear, but joy! Give this child some...no, not mead. Juice from the finest apples!" Her grin exposed her sharp teeth, pearly white. Monster Encounter: Encounter Name: Huli Jing Twins Difficulty Rating: Hard Monsters: 2 Huli Jing Monster Strategy: Both huli jing will attempt to use Dominate Person immediately. If they succeed, they burrow underground. If it fails, they create a figment they can hide within of hallucinatory terrain before using assorted charms to control their foes. They only resort to attacking physically if they have to, preferring to burrow out of combat.   Huli Jing CE Tiny Magical Beast A black, nine-tailed fox that usually stays in its natural fox form. It is highly intelligent, and most notably, very much knows its power. These ones chose to fight in the arena after a discussion with the collector, instead of avoiding capture. Init +2; Senses low-light vision, scent; Perception +8 Defense AC 14, touch 14, flat-footed 12 (+2 Dex, +2 size) hp 168 (19d8+19) Fort +3, Ref +4, Will +1 Offense Speed 40 ft., Burrow 10 ft Melee bite +1 (1d3–1) Space 2-1/2 ft., Reach 0 ft. Statistics Str 9, Dex 15, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 12, Cha 18 Base Atk +0; CMB +0; CMD 9 (13 vs. trip) Feats Skill Focus (Perception) Skills Acrobatics +2 (+10 when jumping), Perception +8, Stealth +10, Survival +1 (+5 scent tracking); Racial Modifiers +4 Acrobatics when jumping, +4 Survival when tracking by scent Abilities Caster Level 14 Dominate Person 1/day. This spell-like ability uses Charisma as the casting modifier. Casting Tradition: Natural Illusion sphere: Illusory Touch (sensory, touch) Mind sphere: Expanded Charm, Fear (charm), Gestures (charm), Hostility (charm), Mind Spy (charm), Paralyze (charm), Powerful Charm

[Battlechaser]

Thank you.
And it’s mostly a favorite due to laziness. Why work when others can do it for you?

[triedtherest]

The fearful view on necromancy may well be the reason why Battlechaser's PC decided to go to the arena in the first place.

[Battlechaser]

Is spheres of origins allowed to make new races?

And asking for approval of this casting tradition:

Psychic casting
CAM: Constitution
Innate curse: shattered psyche
Draining casting
Incompatible energies
Witchmarked
Somatic casting
Mental focus
Skilled casting perform sing
Boons: easy focus, fortified casting, alien source, drawback feat: reinforced structures

[Eviltedzies]

Originally Posted by Battlechaser

Is spheres of origins allowed to make new races?

For this first run of the game I am not allowing any of the Origin race creator options from Spheres material.

Originally Posted by Battlechaser

And asking for approval of this casting tradition:

Psychic casting
CAM: Constitution
Innate curse: shattered psyche
Draining casting
Incompatible energies
Witchmarked
Somatic casting
Mental focus
Skilled casting perform sing
Boons: easy focus, fortified casting, alien source, drawback feat: reinforced structures

Approved

[AximusLokar]

Ooh, this seems fun. And Spheres are so rarely allowed. I've got something for this. Got a few things that'll need approval. Lemme pull them together and get back to ya.

Concept: Magic-blooded Archer and her pet rock. O̶̩͠m̸̬̌i̴̙͊n̵͉̽ȍ̵̩u̸̳͌s̵̨̚ ̶͕͝d̶̦̀r̶̠͋ȏ̵̥ṋ̴̍i̶̦̾n̸̻̄g̵̛̗ ̴̟̉ḯ̴̻ņ̴͊t̵̯̓e̷̝͒n̷͉̄s̶̝͐í̷̞f̷̪̎i̶̲͂e̴̦͠s̸̖̎.̶̈́ ̘
Translation: Bloodbinder Armorist with a bound Orb that uses the Fate and Warleader spheres.

A few questions:

Originally Posted by Eviltedzies

Custom Casting traditions are allowed with the caveat that you can have no more than 6 drawbacks. Obviously I need to approve the tradition. (Will update the main thread)

Does this include the Sphere-specific drawbacks that modify the base function of spheres instead of the spellcasting tradition overall? ie: Destruction (Energy Focus) or Divination (Limited Divination: Senses Only)?

Also, Conjuration's Martial Companion doesn't innately grant a Martial Tradition but mentions 'some companions may qualify to trade things for a martial tradition'. Could I trade something from my Orb companion for this? Of the top of my head I'm eying it's Natural Armor and Hover Height Advancement. I don't mention it's Natural Weapon or Multiattack only because I already planned to trade that Natural Weapon for Implement Bearer (which makes Multiattack worthless anyways so it'd be kinda cheesy to trade it for something), though I'd rather have that tradition than Implement Bearer so it is on the table.

One about the function of Gory Armaments. It summons ranged weapons with basic ammunition, and allows one to create and use basic ammunition without the normal blood loss price. But could one pay that blood loss price to produce enhanced ammunition per the enhancement bonus of a created weapon? ie: Every 20 shots (the capacity of a quiver) it has to be restocked at the usual blood loss price?

And finally, while this is one I think works just fine mechanically and it's honestly overspending to get a bit of synergy and stylistic cool factor, I'd rather confirm it than be blindsided. Bloodbinder gets access to Blacksmith Insights. There's a pair of Blacksmith Insights, Shieldsmith and Master Shieldsmith, that effectively allow one to use a shield unimpeded. One removes the attack penalty for using a weapon in your shield hand, the other stops you losing your shield AC when using your shield arm to attack. There's a bit more but that's what it breaks down to for my purposes. Then you have the equipment talent Shielded Gauntlet that lets you treat a gauntlet as a buckler. Do you have any objection to my archer using a magic blood gauntlet as a shield without penalty at the cost of 2 Insights and a Talent (functionally 3 talents considering I could just take a Talent with an Insight)?

The minor synergy is I'm looking at Smashing Counter if I've already invested so much into this shield combo for people that think 'oh, it's an archer, I'll just run up and stab it scott free'. Also synergizes with what should be my only Legendary Talent request, Soul's Shield (shield enhancement bonus gives resist bonus to saves, so basically taking the place of a Cloak of Resistance).

[Unforgiven]

Alisha

Name: Alisha Nocturn
Race: Elf Vampire
Classes: Conscript 10
Archetype(s): N/A
Alignment: CE
Primary Party Roles: Minor skill monkey. Hard Carry: Stabber(melee and ranged)
Character Sheet: LINK

Home Kingdom: Baalreisan

Campaign Trait:

 

Alisha’s life had always been marked by bloodshed, survival, and the unquenchable hunger for challenge. After a century of torment under Deacon and centuries more of disciplined hunting under Seraphion’s guidance, she had learned to channel her darkness into calculated and honorable combat. Now, as a valued operative of House Jaeger, Alisha found herself thrust into a new arena—the Parabellum Games—a stage where bloodshed became spectacle, and death a path to glory.

For Alisha, the games were more than a duty; they were an opportunity. The prospect of facing worthy adversaries and unleashing her power in a sanctioned, celebrated manner stoked something primal in her. This was a chance to push her limits, to test the discipline she had forged under her sire’s mentorship, and to revel in the razor’s edge between life and death. Every injury only drove her to fight harder, each triumph affirming her mastery over the darkness within.

But House Jaeger’s motives for entering her into the games went far beyond the desire for glory. In secret, Lord Jaeger had orchestrated this as an act of vengeance against a rival house. One of their noble scions had disgraced House Jaeger by breaking a betrothal to one of its daughters, tarnishing the family’s honor. Now, this rival would be forced to bet heavily on the life of their young champion—a champion destined to face Alisha in the arena. The stakes were far more than money; they were life and legacy.

Unaware of the full extent of the machinations behind her entry, Alisha focused on the challenge ahead. To her, the Parabellum Games were a proving ground. Each foe she faced brought her closer to emulating Seraphion’s legacy—a disciplined predator wielding strength with purpose and honor. She knew her father might even attend, and the thought filled her with equal parts fear and determination. Would this be the moment she could finally prove herself worthy of his bloodline, a knight in her own right, not merely an adopted creature of shadow?

For House Jaeger, each of her victories would serve a dual purpose: securing glory and wealth for their house while exacting a quiet, calculated revenge. For Alisha, every fight in the games was another step toward controlling the darkness within and proving that even the most fractured soul could find balance in the chaos of battle.

The Parabellum Games were not just a contest of strength; they were a stage for survival, redemption, and vengeance—on the sands of the arena, where bloodlust and honor converged.

Physical Description:

 

Alisha, as she appears now, is an elven woman in the prime of her life, relatively tall for a female elf. She resembles a moon elf, her brilliant silver hair flowing like liquid light and her eyes shining with a cool, mesmerizing radiance. Her silken skin is as pale as moonlight itself, lending her an ethereal beauty that captivates onlookers. She generally wears noble finery—fanciful dresses or fitted leather attire—emphasizing her refined elegance. Her smile is a beacon of allure, drawing admiration and desire from men at every ball she attends.

With a moderate bosom for an elf and long, delicate limbs, Alisha’s beauty is undeniably striking. Yet most who seek her attention fail to recognize the hidden danger until it’s far too late. In quiet, secluded corners, away from prying eyes and ears, her partners might notice something unusual—a faint, unsettling flicker in her gaze, a glimpse of something dark and terrible within. In their passion, they often brush this off, seeing it as an alluring quirk of such a flawless woman. But as her smile shifts, a sharp, wicked edge appears, revealing a predatory glint. They then notice her pronounced canines, which seem to elongate slightly as the gleam in her eyes intensifies.

With daggers hidden in places no one would expect in polite society, she closes in on her chosen target, her perfect features twisting into cruel joy. A well of panic rises in her prey’s chest as her silent powers take hold, choking off any chance of screaming. And then, Alisha goes to work with her daggers, efficiently and without hesitation.

When she returns to the party, there’s a faint blush to her pale cheeks, though no one could guess the reason. She twirls and dances, seeming to glide from partner to partner with a swan-like grace, drawing admirers into her orbit. Every man she dances with feels that, in those brief moments, he is her sole focus. Her alluring gaze and intoxicating perfume leave each partner reeling as she moves on to the next, a trail of dazed admirers left in her wake.

By the end of the night, Alisha has quietly disappeared. Most assume she retired early, perhaps having had one too many glasses of wine, though only the bartender notes how many cups she truly took—more than twelve, and each emptied without effect. And no one notices the small red silk bundle she left with, once empty, now suspiciously full. The next morning, the authorities find themselves investigating yet another grisly scene: a corpse, skinless and bloodless, yet no closer to catching the mysterious "Lady of Moonlight" who haunts their city’s nights.

Personality:

 

Alisha’s personality is as mercurial as her history is layered. Her fractured mind, shaped by a century of torment under Deacon’s cruelty and strained by her resurrection as a vampire, is both volatile and turbulent. She experiences intense emotional swings, triggered by moments that unleash either unbridled rage or plunge her into the depths of despair. Her demeanor shifts unpredictably, ranging from childlike playfulness to the poised grace of a noblewoman—echoes of her tumultuous past, her time under Seraphion’s mentorship, and her life navigating the shadows of her profession. Her moods and thoughts are labyrinthine, a complex tapestry of suppressed memories, twisted truths, and hidden vulnerabilities.

Under Seraphion’s strict guidance, Alisha began to temper the darkness within her. He offered her more than discipline; he showed her the possibility of redemption, teaching her to channel her hunger for blood and violence into purposeful action. Yet, despite his efforts, the darkness remains an indelible part of her. Alisha lives with the constant pull of her violent impulses, a hunger that gnaws at her edges. She tempers this with an unyielding sense of loyalty to the ideals instilled by Seraphion, pursuing strength with honor while striving to wield her power without succumbing to her baser instincts.

Her years in service have refined her abilities, honing her into a lethal assassin and a skilled operative. The demands of her role have offered her purpose and structure, but the monster within remains restless. She is haunted by the tension between her drive to conquer her own darkness and the seductive allure of surrendering to it entirely. Her hatred for necromancers burns with particular intensity, rooted in memories of Deacon’s sadistic experiments, and she views destroying practitioners of necromancy as both a personal vendetta and a necessary act of justice.

Alisha presents a dichotomy to the world. To many, she is a figure of unearthly beauty and grace, her allure intoxicating yet unnervingly predatory. She delights in toying with her prey, weaving a web of charm and fear that masks the predator beneath. Yet, to those rare individuals she trusts, she reveals fragments of her true self—a playful, almost innocent side that belies her haunting past. Among trusted allies, she shows glimpses of humor, vulnerability, and even joy, though these moments are fleeting and often tinged with an undercurrent of sorrow.

Privately, Alisha is a paradox of light and shadow. She yearns for redemption and purpose but struggles to believe she deserves either. Her fractured mind often draws her into moments of self-reflection, where she battles against the lingering voice of the monster she fears she truly is. Despite this, she remains resolute in her desire to find a path forward, guided by a code of honor instilled in her and a burning determination to prove she is more than the sum of her darkest moments.

To those who know her, Alisha is a force of nature: unpredictable, enigmatic, and undeniably powerful. She walks the razor’s edge between light and darkness, striving to reconcile the monster within with the woman she aspires to become. Her life is a journey of balance and conflict, as she forges ahead in a world where redemption feels both tantalizingly close and heartbreakingly out of reach.

Backstory:

 

 

Alisha was born during the final days of the Horizon War, a brutal conflict that tore apart the lands and shattered any semblance of peace. Her parents, both skilled elven mages, dedicated themselves to shielding their young daughter from the horrors of the world outside. In her early years, Alisha was kept hidden away, moving from one makeshift refuge to another, her family forced to live in secrecy and fear. She spent her childhood in fleeting safety, constantly on the move, sleeping under the stars or huddled in hidden caves, the flickering firelight casting long shadows on the rough stone walls.

Even in this life of isolation, Alisha’s parents did their best to make her world feel safe and magical. Her mother would tell her stories of the Celestial Empire, a place of beauty and tranquility, while her father taught her simple songs and melodies to help her find comfort in dark times. Despite the bleakness of their situation, her parents tried to cultivate her natural curiosity, teaching her to read and recounting tales of their homeland. But hunger was a constant companion, and resources were scarce. They often survived on roots, wild berries, and the occasional small game her father could trap, always just scraping by.

For years, Alisha and her family remained elusive, hiding in the forests and mountains, her parents’ magic cloaking their presence from wandering patrols and demonic scouts. Alisha, despite her innocence, began to understand the stakes. She sensed the fear that colored her parents’ every move, the way their bodies tensed at every sound, every shift in the wind. The outside world became something monstrous and mysterious, something she both feared and longed to understand. Her parents spoke of the grand cities and open meadows they’d once known, but these stories felt like distant dreams to her. Her reality was shadows, silence, and the ever-present threat that loomed just beyond the safety of her family’s magic.

But Alisha’s life changed forever one cold, dark evening. As they moved toward a distant cave they had hoped to take refuge in, a sudden chill swept over them. The skies darkened, and a cacophony of unnatural sounds filled the air. Her father froze, his senses alert, and a feeling of dread washed over them all. They were being hunted. A swarm of lesser demons, creatures left behind from the chaos of the Horizon War, had caught their scent. They were voracious and driven, tearing across the land, leaving only death in their wake.

Her parents put up a fierce fight to protect her, channeling powerful magic—ice, fire, and lightning crackled in the air as they fought to hold back the oncoming horde. Alisha watched in terror as her parents battled against the overwhelming swarm, their spells lighting up the darkened landscape in flashes of raw power. Yet, for every demon they vanquished, more took its place. Her parents’ strength waned, and the swarm closed in, surrounding them. Desperation filled the air as her mother and father cast their final protective wards around her, urging her to stay hidden as they made their last stand.

At just fifty years old—a mere child by elven standards—Alisha felt her world collapse around her. She was paralyzed with fear as the creatures descended upon her parents, their fierce bravery swallowed by the ravenous swarm. Alisha’s heart raced as she tried to comprehend what was happening, the sounds of tearing and snarling filling her ears as the world she knew faded into a nightmare of blood and shadows. In a final attempt to protect her, her mother managed a whispered spell, casting a faint shield over her daughter before being overwhelmed.

Then, the demons turned on her. Alisha’s small frame was no match for the creatures that now descended upon her with unrelenting hunger. She fought back with everything she had, but her strength was nothing against their claws and fangs. Her vision blurred as pain overtook her, and in those final moments, a strange sense of peace washed over her. The world grew silent, the darkness swallowed her whole, and the pain and terror slipped away, leaving only a cold, empty void as her life faded into oblivion.

That was supposed to be the end. Alisha had succumbed to the demons’ onslaught, her young life cut tragically short in the chaos of war. Yet, the peace she found in death was fleeting, for her story would take an even darker turn in the centuries that followed. But in that moment, as a child alone on the battlefield, she knew only fear, suffering, and loss—a haunting memory that would linger in her soul long after death itself should have claimed her.

 

Two hundred years after Alisha’s death, during the height of the Era of the New Dawn, a weary and broken necromancer sat in the very cave where she had perished. This former man of faith was known simply as Deacon.

Deacon was broken inside. He despised himself, what he had become, and the monstrous beings that had torn his family from him. Leftover abominations from the Horizon War had ravaged his family, and though he was able to destroy them, he hadn’t been quick enough to save his wife and children. He didn’t understand why it happened or why his god had abandoned him. All he knew now was hatred and rage. Cursing his god—a name that would be forgotten in a thousand years—Deacon embraced his bitterness.

Desperate, he attempted to heal his family, stitching them back together and pouring magic into their lifeless forms. But no amount of healing would return the dead to life.

With sudden clarity, he realized necromancy could accomplish what healing could not, despite his god’s opposition. His defiance grew, daring his god to strike him down. When no punishment came, he wondered if his god had truly died. It didn’t matter; Deacon would reclaim his family, whatever the cost.

He brought their bodies to a cave he’d seen before, steeped in residual energy from ancient battles. With preserved bodies, personal tokens to bind their spirits, and his own blood sacrifice, he began the ritual. Drawing from the cave’s negative energy, he reached into the beyond, pulling his family’s souls back from the afterlife. But something went wrong; other restless souls also sought to inhabit his loved ones’ bodies.

Horror gripped him as the animation ritual completed. He’d miscalculated, and the protective circle was breached. His first son rose, reaching out, “Daddy, help me!” as a third arm and horns erupted grotesquely from his body. The boy’s form twisted, unable to contain multiple souls, and ultimately disintegrated to dust. His second son met the same fate. Deacon watched in terror, barely able to move.

Then his daughter rose, transformed, lunging with ghastly fangs and a grotesquely distended jaw. Instinctively, he unleashed a holy bolt, destroying the creature that was once his beloved child. Finally, his wife rose without apparent mutation. Grateful, he embraced her, tears streaming as he thanked the gods. But she spoke in an archaic dialect, asking, “Who are you, mister? And where am I?” Something snapped within him, and he broke into laughter, a cruel irony mocking his desperate, shattered heart and mind.

 

Alisha’s second life was a century-long nightmare of suffering. From the moment she was resurrected, she was bound to a world of endless torment. Deacon, the broken necromancer who had brought her back, saw in her a grotesque echo of his lost family. Consumed by grief and fury, he treated her as a living effigy of his failures, taking out his wrath with relentless cruelty.

Over the years, Deacon’s tortures became routine. His rage was inflicted upon her through brutal means, yet her vampiric regeneration healed her within minutes, forcing her to endure each torment anew. No matter the agony—burns, broken bones, or torn skin—she regenerated, trapped in this cycle of pain. Over a hundred years, her memories faded, her sense of self eroded, and a dark, primal hunger for vengeance grew.

Finally, her strength peaked, and she broke free. She turned Deacon’s cruelty against him, each scream marking her liberation as she took back every ounce of suffering he had inflicted. When he lay silent, Alisha left, her spirit shattered but finally unbound.

Her new life was that of a predator, driven by hunger and rage. As a daywalker, immune to sunlight, she drifted through the world, killing and feeding on humans, becoming known as the “Skinslayer.” For two centuries, she evaded capture, leaving a trail of horror across the new nations rising after the Horizon War, each hunt sharpening her instincts and hardening her spirit.

One day, a powerful presence sought her out. A true vampire lord—a blood knight who had mastered his weaknesses and could walk in daylight—found her. He called himself Seraphion Nocturn. Recognizing in Alisha a kindred spirit shaped by suffering, he approached her with respect and offered her a place by his side, seeing her not as a monster but as a survivor. Though he could not heal the fractures of her mind entirely, he contained her horror and guided her down a path toward balance.

Under his mentorship, Alisha found both purpose and a semblance of stability, though her murderous tendencies never fully faded. Her mind, still scarred from centuries of torment, held onto a dark edge that even her new “father” could not completely soften. Yet, she was no longer alone. In him, she found a dark kinship, a guiding presence that steadied her and gave her a sense of family she had long forgotten.

And so, Alisha’s path turned once more. With her fractured mind tempered by the vampire lord’s teachings, she embraced her newfound purpose, ready to wield her power and darkness with a sharper, more controlled edge, forever shaped by the horrors of her past.

 

After centuries of mentorship under Seraphion Nocturn, Alisha emerged as a tempered yet deadly vampire, able to live among mortals without attracting the wrath of monster slayers. Seraphion, her mentor and guide, approached her with a unique mix of compassion and discipline. Though she wasn’t bound to him by blood, he saw in her a fractured spirit he wished to heal, and he worked to shape her darkness into something with purpose. While he did not hold her to the same uncompromising standards as his blood-bound knights, his punishments were severe when she strayed, and his teachings left an indelible mark on her.

When she was ready for independence, Seraphion arranged for Alisha to join the enigmatic House Jaeger of Baalreisan, known for their vast information network, mastery of espionage, and rumored ties to the city’s criminal underworld. Seraphion’s only condition was that they respect and treat Alisha well, warning that any betrayal of his trust would be met with swift vengeance. With her reputation preceding her, Alisha quickly became an invaluable asset to the family, her skill and discretion earning her high regard within the house. The noble members respected her greatly, but she was kept at arm’s length, a silent reminder of the house’s dark dealings. Among the lower members, her deadly reputation made her both feared and revered, leaving her with few equals in her circle.

Within the house’s ranks, however, Alisha formed a close bond with Brennar Vael, the house’s secretive spymaster. Brennar, a seasoned operative, recognized in Alisha a kindred spirit—a soul tempered by hardship yet hungry for connection. Through their mutual respect and countless missions together, they developed an understanding, each valuing the other’s insights. Brennar served as both friend and confidant, offering her wise counsel and a rare trust she cherished.

Alongside Brennar, Alisha also caught the attention of two unusual admirers. Caelum Loreweaver, a gifted bard, was captivated by her complex spirit and often composed songs inspired by her beauty and mystery, singing them in Baalreisan’s underground taverns. Thane Aleron, a dashing swashbuckler with a devil-may-care attitude, fell deeply in love with Alisha, drawn by both her strength and vulnerability. Alisha struggled to see their affections clearly, her fractured mind unable to truly believe anyone could love her for who she was. To her, the idea of love seemed foreign, as though reserved for others, not for someone who carried such darkness.

At the same time, Alisha maintained a circle of “friends” she kept as toys or distractions. Among her favorites were two beast men, Rykath and Fenn, whose loyalty to her bordered on worship. She allowed them close, using their raw strength as tools and occasionally indulging in their adoration to satisfy her darker whims. Alongside them were two mages, Ilyra and Darem, skilled in various arcane arts but not in necromancy—an art she despised. Both Ilyra and Darem sought her favor and feared her wrath, existing in the shadows of her presence, useful yet wary of the depths of her power.

After nearly a century of service, House Jaeger presented her with a unique opportunity. In Vlastheim’s famed Volker Macht arena, where nobles and warriors alike gathered for the legendary Parabellum games, she would have the chance to test herself against the most formidable opponents in single combat. The games offered Alisha an outlet to satisfy her bloodlust, and House Jaeger could profit from the wagers they placed on her abilities. For Alisha, however, the games held a deeper significance: they promised her a proving ground where she could walk the line between restraint and savagery, a way to honor Seraphion’s teachings and test her strength against worthy foes.

Alisha entered the games with fierce determination, anticipating powerful adversaries—knights, monsters, mages—that would push her to her limits. In the arena, she expected to confront both her inner darkness and the disciplined warrior she had become under Seraphion’s tutelage. Each battle was a test of whether she could harness her rage and power with purpose, fighting not just to bring glory to House Jaeger but to honor the legacy of her sire.

In the Parabellum games, Alisha was not merely fighting to survive; she was fighting to prove to herself—and to Seraphion—that she had transformed her fractured soul into something more. The arena would be her crucible, a place where darkness and honor could converge, granting her a chance to live up to the ideals instilled by the only two homes she had ever known.

Extra Backstory:

 

 

Seraphion Nocturn is a vampire lord of unmatched prowess and the founder of a noble bloodline of vampire knights known as the Order of the Crimson Ascent. His rule is centered in a remote fortress nestled high in the mountains, a citadel known as Eldergaze Keep, named for the peak’s commanding view over the lands below. Within this stronghold, Seraphion’s children—the vampires he sired and trained—live by a strict code of honor that reflects their lord’s unyielding principles. To Seraphion, strength is only worthy when wielded with restraint and dignity, and he demands his knights embody these virtues without exception. Those who break the code are dealt swift and merciless justice by his hand, as no betrayal of honor will stand within his order.

Seraphion’s path to mastery over his vampiric curse is a legend told in whispers. In his early years, he sought out and vanquished the most powerful foes, from ancient werewolves to formidable mages. His journey reached its pinnacle when he challenged an ancient gold dragon lord to single combat. The battle was fierce, and Seraphion chose to fight the dragon with only his claws and fangs—a testament to his skill, strength, and unbreakable will. He emerged victorious, and as he drank the dragon’s final drops of blood, a transformation overcame him. The curses and weaknesses that once plagued him fell away, leaving only his strength and mastery. Now a daywalker, Seraphion is immune to sunlight and other limitations of lesser vampires.

Seraphion instilled his code into the very soul of his bloodline. His knights, the Crimson Ascent, are bound by their highest law: Never kill those weaker than yourself. They must continually seek powerful adversaries and worthy challenges, emulating Seraphion’s own journey by honing their skills against the strongest foes the world can offer. Seraphion believes that only through these trials can they truly ascend, reaching a state of mastery akin to his own transformation.

Though formidable and severe, Seraphion also possesses a deep sense of duty to his “children.” He views each as a valued member of his lineage, offering guidance to those who show promise. Among them, he favors Alisha—a volatile yet determined vampire whom he has taken under his wing, seeing in her both potential and the scars of a tortured past. Seraphion guides her as a father would, knowing that her fractured mind may never fully heal but that, with discipline and purpose, she can channel her darkness into something greater.

Seraphion Nocturn, the Dragon-Slayer Lord, remains a living legend, his life defined by honor, discipline, and the relentless pursuit of strength. For his children, he stands as both a ruler and an ideal, embodying the very essence of power tempered by a strict moral code. In his eyes, to wield power without integrity is to squander the potential of one’s existence.

 

Brennar Vael, the Darkling Spymaster:
Race: Darkling
Brennar is a Darkling, a shadowed race born from the Plane of Shadow, with dark skin and faintly glowing silver eyes that reflect his otherworldly origin. Darklings are known for their cunning, stealth, and innate connection to shadows, which makes them excellent spies and infiltrators. His race’s innate ability to blend into the dark and their heightened senses make him an ideal candidate for espionage.

Early Life and Descent into Crime:
Brennar’s childhood was one of harsh survival and betrayal. Born into a small community on the fringes of the Umbral Highlands, he grew up in a culture where secrets were currency and trust was scarce. His parents were lower-class merchants who struggled to make ends meet. When they were falsely accused of trafficking illicit shadowed artifacts, they were stripped of everything and left destitute. Brennar watched his parents’ slow descent, witnessing firsthand the brutal cost of a single misstep in their society.

Forced to fend for himself as a child, Brennar became adept at navigating the shadowy underworld. By the age of twelve, he was stealing, eavesdropping, and running messages for the local crime lords in exchange for food and shelter. His wit and resourcefulness quickly made him a valuable asset, and he rose through the ranks. But Brennar wasn’t content with petty crime; he saw it as a stepping stone to something more—a way to master the art of secrets and power. By the time he left the Umbral Highlands, he was known for his unmatched ability to acquire and trade information, even among the most dangerous circles.

Entry into House Jaeger:
Brennar arrived in Baalreisan as a young adult, drawn to its reputation for opportunity and its growing underbelly of crime. House Jaeger, known for their grip on Baalreisan’s secrets, quickly caught his attention. Brennar approached the house with caution, recognizing that they held the influence he craved. At first, Jaeger’s nobles were wary of this shadowed stranger, but Brennar’s ability to uncover information on rival families—and even on some of Jaeger’s own members—convinced them of his value. In his first year, he provided secrets that crippled two minor houses and strengthened Jaeger’s hold over Vlastheim’s Splinter district.

His rise within House Jaeger was swift. Brennar’s keen intelligence, ruthless pragmatism, and natural connection to darkness allowed him to establish a network of spies and informants across the social strata. He recruited beggars, thieves, aristocrats, and everyone in between, transforming Jaeger’s information network into one of unparalleled power. Jaeger granted him autonomy as their unofficial spymaster, and Brennar took on the title of “Keeper of Crows”, using crows as a symbol of his agents who roamed every corner of the city.

Connection with Alisha:

 

Connection with Alisha When Alisha entered House Jaeger, Brennar saw her as a kindred spirit—another shadow-dweller shaped by trauma and a past steeped in blood. Her beauty and allure didn’t charm him in the way it did others; instead, he saw the fractured but disciplined mind beneath, a soul hardened by suffering yet capable of intense loyalty. Alisha’s unpredictability and her experience as a seasoned predator intrigued him. Brennar initially approached her as a mentor, sharing his knowledge of espionage, subtlety, and manipulation, but quickly realized that she had just as much to teach him. Alisha’s centuries of experience provided insights he hadn’t considered; her understanding of patience, ancient rivalries, and calculated restraint helped him refine his approach. Through their partnership, Alisha taught him about honor and loyalty—concepts he had long dismissed as weaknesses. She showed him the value of personal codes, even for those who operated in the darkest corners of society. In turn, Brennar’s mentorship helped Alisha hone her spycraft, teaching her the art of gathering information quietly, as well as reading and manipulating people without resorting to force. Their relationship became one of mutual respect, with Brennar finding in Alisha a rare companion who truly understood his shadowed world. Brennar Vael’s bond with Alisha grew from shared shadows, a mutual understanding of the darker realms they inhabited within House Jaeger. As the spymaster and a master of secrets, Brennar saw in Alisha a reflection of his own guarded soul, an ally whose loyalty was as unwavering as her skills were lethal. She was not merely a weapon; she was a kindred spirit who thrived in the murky depths of Baalreisan’s underworld, just as he did. Together, they formed a unique partnership that transcended mere professional ties—Brennar respected her like few others, and she valued him as a rare confidant who understood the price of living in shadows. In many of their missions, Brennar and Alisha operated as a seamless team, each one relying on the other’s unique abilities. For assassination assignments, Brennar would be her eyes in the dark, feeding her crucial information through a telepathic bracelet they shared. As Alisha moved in on a target, Brennar would guide her, updating her on guard rotations, hidden defenses, and escape routes, his mind working as fast as hers was sharp. Through their telepathic connection, they communicated in a language honed through years of missions, their words precise and efficient, each syllable an unspoken acknowledgment of the trust between them. Brennar admired Alisha’s combat proficiency, her expertise with elven blades and her mastery over telekinesis. He often marveled at how she wielded her daggers from a distance, her telekinesis making her as dangerous from across a room as she was up close. He would watch from afar, a silent witness to the deadly elegance with which she could dispatch an entire room of adversaries without ever getting a single drop of blood on herself. When it came to marksmanship, Alisha was unmatched; her precision with a bow or crossbow was legendary, and her throwing daggers rarely missed their mark. Brennar knew he could depend on her skills absolutely, and he trusted her to be his guardian whenever a mission required him to be in harm’s way. In some of their darker assignments, Alisha served as Brennar’s protector, ensuring his safety as he worked within hostile territory. One such mission had them infiltrating the fortress of a rival spymaster who had betrayed House Jaeger. As Brennar dug through intelligence files in the enemy’s hidden study, Alisha moved like a wraith around him, her daggers hovering in the air through her telekinesis, ready to strike at any sign of danger. When guards approached, she would intercept them with swift, silent efficiency, her weapons slicing through the air in a deadly dance that left no trace of her presence. Brennar felt an unusual sense of security with her by his side, knowing that her loyalty was as sharp as the blades she wielded. On another mission, Brennar had to guide Alisha from afar as she moved to eliminate a prominent noble suspected of espionage against Jaeger. Feeding her information through their telepathy bracelet, he mapped out each twist and turn within the noble’s manor, directing her path while she slipped silently through the halls. With his intel and her lethal precision, they dismantled the noble’s defenses one by one, Brennar orchestrating the operation from the shadows, while Alisha executed it with ruthless efficiency. Their partnership was a balance of mind and blade, each enhancing the other’s talents in a way that few could rival. For both Brennar and Alisha, their shared missions were more than work; they were the foundation of a bond that could only form between those who had faced darkness together. Brennar understood her fractured mind, her hidden fears, and he knew what drove her to be both the beautiful enigma and the deadly weapon she was. He never judged her for the blood she shed or the monstrous urges she struggled with—instead, he respected her restraint, the way she balanced on the edge of her own darkness without ever succumbing to it. In her, he saw the kind of strength he aspired to himself, a determination to survive no matter the cost. Alisha, for her part, trusted Brennar in a way she rarely trusted anyone. She appreciated his understanding, the way he never questioned her methods or judged her for her nature. With Brennar, she could speak freely, sharing the rare fragments of her past that she kept hidden from others, knowing he would neither pity her nor recoil. She felt an almost familial bond with him, a connection strengthened by their mutual understanding of the sacrifices they both made for House Jaeger. Their partnership was not bound by words or sentiment; it was built on loyalty and trust, forged in the fires of countless missions and hardened by shared darkness. Each mission they undertook only deepened their connection, solidifying a friendship as unbreakable as the secrets they kept. Together, Brennar and Alisha moved like two halves of the same shadow, bound by loyalty, respect, and a shared understanding of what it truly meant to live in the dark.

Spymaster and Mastermind of Jaeger’s Network:
Brennar’s network in House Jaeger extended beyond the usual spies and informants. He became the mastermind of an intricate web of contacts that spanned from the beggars in Vlastheim’s Splinter district to aristocrats who whispered secrets in court. His crows were his eyes and ears, gathering rumors and watching everyone, including members of House Jaeger. This made him an invaluable asset to the family, as he could alert them to potential threats from within and without.

As the Keeper of Crows, he established safehouses, hidden communication hubs, and even secret tunnels under the city to facilitate his agents’ movements. His methods were ruthless, often using leverage, blackmail, and coercion to ensure loyalty. He tolerated no betrayal, and any agent caught turning on him was either silenced or used as an example to keep others in line. Brennar’s reputation was that of a ghost—a figure who knew everything but was seen by few.

Personality and Beliefs:
Brennar is a deeply private, calculating figure. Though he values power and control, he is not motivated by cruelty or malice; rather, he sees his actions as necessary within the harsh reality of his world. To him, secrets are power, and trust is a currency he offers only to those few who have earned it. Alisha is one of the rare individuals he genuinely trusts, and their friendship has softened some of his hard edges, though only slightly.

Unlike many in his line of work, Brennar holds a deep respect for those who demonstrate loyalty and dedication. He values honor, as strange as that may seem for a spymaster, though he applies it only selectively to those he deems worthy. He still remembers his parents’ unjust downfall and the years he spent clawing his way up, and it is these memories that fuel his commitment to staying one step ahead. To Brennar, weakness is the failure to understand and control one’s environment, and he ensures that he remains in the shadows, always watching, always prepared.

Brennar’s Legacy and Influence on Alisha:
In many ways, Brennar sees Alisha as both an ally and a protégé. He admires her resilience and respects her discipline, seeing in her a piece of himself—a survivor molded by trauma but unwilling to be defined by it. He views her as the strongest connection he has, a friend who knows the darkness as intimately as he does. While Alisha learns much from him, he also finds her perspective invaluable, particularly her understanding of honor and loyalty, which he’s begun to incorporate, if only within his small circle of trusted agents.

Brennar’s influence within House Jaeger is unmatched, and his presence is felt in every whisper, every clandestine meeting, and every rumor that ripples through Baalreisan’s underworld. As the “Keeper of Crows,” he remains a phantom in the city’s shadows, ensuring that Jaeger’s power endures and that he himself is ever in control, ever watchful.

 

Caelum Loreweaver, Bard of the Shadows

Race: Moon Elf
Caelum is a moon elf whose ethereal grace and haunting beauty give his music an enchanting quality. With a natural affinity for the harp, lute, and flute, Caelum tailors his performances to suit his audience but favors the harp, viewing it as the pinnacle of musical elegance. His haunting ballads and graceful presence have made him a beloved figure in Baalreisan’s taverns and secret gatherings.

Early Life and Path to Bardhood:
Born to artisans in a remote elven enclave, Caelum grew up surrounded by beauty and creativity. His father was a master glassblower, and his mother a skilled weaver, both encouraging his artistic inclinations. By adolescence, he was an accomplished harpist and singer, captivating his small community with songs of elven history and folklore. Driven by an insatiable curiosity, Caelum left his peaceful enclave to explore the world, ultimately finding his way to Baalreisan.

In the city, his elven charm and talent quickly won over audiences in taverns above and below the underbelly. Though he never achieved the prestige of a court bard, his poetic lyrics and enchanting melodies resonated deeply, allowing him to navigate both high and low society with ease. Caelum became known for his ballads of lost love, valor, and tragedy, capturing the attention of those who felt the pull of both beauty and sorrow.

Joining House Jaeger and Becoming a Crow:
Caelum’s entry into House Jaeger was as much fate as fortune. While performing one evening in a high-end tavern, he overheard a conversation between Jaeger agents. With his signature finesse, he wove fragments of their discussion into his song, catching their attention without revealing anything overtly. Impressed by his discretion, House Jaeger soon recruited him as an informant and entertainer. His blend of subtlety, charm, and elven grace made him a perfect fit, and he was welcomed into Jaeger’s network as one of Brennar Vael’s “crows”.

Brennar quickly recognized Caelum’s unique skills, granting him a degree of autonomy within the network. Caelum used his performances to gather intelligence from audiences across Baalreisan, often collecting valuable information from the conversations of his admirers. As a crow, Caelum was more than a musician; he was Brennar’s eyes and ears in places the spymaster himself could not reach, an invaluable asset for gathering secrets through song and charm. His popularity and connections gave him access to gossip and sensitive discussions among the nobility and Jaeger’s elite, and he became known for his uncanny ability to draw out hidden truths with seemingly innocuous questions.

Connection with Alisha:

 

Connection with Alisha Caelum’s first encounter with Alisha is etched in his memory like a haunting refrain. He had been performing a somber ballad at a gathering hosted by House Jaeger, the quiet notes of his harp filling the room with an air of melancholy. As he played, he sensed a shift, an almost tangible change in the room’s atmosphere. When he looked up, his breath caught in his throat. Alisha had entered the room, and it was as though a figure from one of his tales had materialized before him. Her silver hair shimmered in the candlelight, her skin a pale glow against the darkened space, and her expression carried an enigmatic sadness that seemed beyond mortal experience. She was a beauty beyond his dreams, a vision of grace with a depth he had never encountered. For a moment, Caelum faltered, missing a note as he took her in, his heart stirring with both awe and reverence. That night, Caelum was swept into a tide of emotions he hadn’t anticipated. He spoke with her briefly after his performance, his usually eloquent tongue struggling to find the right words. Her voice was soft, her manner courteous but distant, as if she held herself carefully apart from others. The mystery surrounding her only intensified Caelum’s feelings, and as he watched her move through the gathering with reserved poise, he felt himself falling in love with the very idea of her. She became, in his mind, a tragic muse—a figure both inspiring and untouchable, a woman of shadows who seemed as unattainable as the moonlight she resembled. From that day forward, Caelum was captivated by Alisha. Every time he saw her, his heart ached with unspoken feelings, words he longed to share but never dared. He poured his love into his music instead, weaving notes and lyrics that hinted at the depth of his emotions, veiling his affection within ballads and lullabies that only the most attentive listener would recognize. His gaze would linger on her as he performed, his eyes holding a quiet reverence, a longing he could only express through the delicate notes of his harp. To Caelum, Alisha was more than just a beautiful woman—she was the embodiment of everything he cherished in his art: beauty, tragedy, and an elusive mystery he could only hope to understand through song. Yet, his love for Alisha remained a secret, one he held close to his heart. His closest friend, Thane Aleron, loved her openly and fiercely, and Caelum, ever the loyal friend, knew he could never betray Thane’s trust by revealing his own feelings. Watching Thane pursue Alisha with wild abandon only deepened Caelum’s own quiet suffering, but he kept his love hidden, choosing to support his friend and cherish the moments he could share with Alisha as her confidant and companion. There were times when the pain became almost too much to bear—times when he would sit alone, his fingers plucking at the strings of his harp as he poured his heartache into music, feeling as if his unspoken love for her would consume him. In Alisha, Caelum saw both a muse and a kindred spirit. She was drawn to the shadows, just as he was, and they shared a bond over the beauty and melancholy of life that few others could understand. Though he couldn’t express his feelings openly, Caelum became her closest friend, a steady presence she could rely on, someone who saw her for who she was and accepted her unconditionally. He watched her interactions with Thane, feeling both a pang of jealousy and a deep respect for his friend’s unwavering love. Caelum’s heart ached each time Thane would share his latest attempt to win her over, yet he would listen patiently, encouraging his friend even as his own heart silently broke. In moments of solitude, Caelum would imagine what it might be like to tell Alisha how he felt. He wondered how she would respond, whether she might finally see him as more than just a friend, a bard who shared her sorrows and her joys. But he knew that revealing his love would risk everything—the fragile friendship he shared with her, the bond he cherished with Thane, and the quiet solace he found in simply being near her. So he kept his feelings hidden, expressing them only through the music he played for her, letting each note speak the words he could never say aloud. His love for Alisha was both a blessing and a curse, a quiet agony he bore willingly, knowing he would rather have her as a friend than risk losing her entirely. In her presence, he felt alive, inspired, his heart stirred with a passion he rarely let himself indulge. And though his heart ached, Caelum accepted his place in her life, content to be the silent poet, the loyal friend, the bard who would carry her memory in his heart and let it shape every song he would ever sing.

Friendship with Thane Aleron:
Caelum’s closest friendship was with Thane Aleron, the swashbuckler who brought a daring spirit to his otherwise introspective life. The two were an inseparable pair in Baalreisan, with Caelum playing his harp or lute while Thane regaled tavern-goers with tales of adventure. Thane’s brash confidence balanced Caelum’s sensitivity, and the two shared a fierce loyalty to one another, each protecting the other in a world fraught with danger. While Thane openly loved Alisha, he respected Caelum’s quiet devotion, understanding that his friend’s love for her was as real as his own.

Their friendship often served as a stabilizing force, with Caelum offering Thane perspective when his impulsive nature got him into trouble, and Thane pushing Caelum to step out of his introspective tendencies. Together, they became well-known in the social circles of Baalreisan, drawing both admiration and envy as the inseparable duo of charm and daring.

Role as Jaeger’s Bard and Informant:
As one of Brennar’s most trusted crows, Caelum’s role extended beyond mere performance. His songs often carried veiled truths, drawing confessions and secrets from patrons without them realizing. He had an uncanny ability to blend fact and fiction in his lyrics, creating a subtle allure that few could resist. As Jaeger’s unofficial bard and informant, Caelum’s music influenced public sentiment, discreetly swaying opinions in favor of House Jaeger.

Though he was deeply loyal to Brennar and House Jaeger, Caelum retained a personal code. He respected the privacy of his true friends and never used his influence to harm innocents needlessly. His artistry was a means of elevating those he cared about, and he viewed his position within Jaeger’s network as both a responsibility and a privilege. Caelum’s discretion and respect for boundaries made him an ideal confidant within the house, someone who could be trusted to gather information without crossing dangerous lines.

Personality and Beliefs:
Caelum is an artist through and through, valuing beauty, love, and the human experience. He approaches life with a quiet passion, viewing each song and performance as a means of connection and expression. Though he thrives in the shadows, he remains sensitive and compassionate, always striving to lift the spirits of those around him. While he navigates Baalreisan’s darker circles, Caelum maintains a sense of honor, never using his influence to harm those who are undeserving.

His feelings for Alisha remain a bittersweet secret, woven into the lyrics of his ballads and the haunting notes of his harp. He values his friendship with Thane, supporting his friend’s love for Alisha while quietly accepting that his own devotion will remain hidden. Caelum is a deeply introspective soul, finding peace in his music and solace in the connections he forges, however fleeting they may be.

Legacy and Influence within House Jaeger:
As Jaeger’s trusted bard and one of Brennar’s most effective crows, Caelum has an influence that extends throughout Baalreisan. His music carries both secrets and sway, serving as a soft yet powerful reminder of House Jaeger’s reach. Through his friendship with Thane and his quiet love for Alisha, Caelum’s art becomes a reflection of his loyalty, passion, and the life he has crafted in the shadows of a city built on power and mystery.

Caelum’s legacy within House Jaeger is one of respect, trust, and artistry. He remains a beloved figure, using his music to inspire, influence, and remind others that even in a world shrouded in shadows, beauty and devotion endure.

 

Thane Aleron, the Swashbuckling Gleeman:

Race: Human
Thane Aleron is a charismatic human swashbuckler known for his flair and finesse. With his hat adorned with a vibrant feather and his clothes as bold as his personality, Thane embodies the daring spirit of a classic rogue. A skilled storyteller and fencer, Thane is as quick with his wit as he is with his rapier, a man who can charm a crowd one moment and dispatch a foe the next.

Early Life and Path to Swashbuckling:
Thane was born in the bustling merchant quarters of Baalreisan, the son of a minor trader who dealt in exotic wares and trinkets. From a young age, Thane was enchanted by the colorful tales spun by travelers and the mercenaries who visited his father’s shop. As he grew older, Thane learned to mimic their stories and entertain the shop’s patrons, developing his talent for storytelling. His father hoped Thane might follow in his footsteps, but Thane’s heart was set on adventure. He left home as a young man, seeking a life of excitement and fame that matched the stories he so loved to tell.

Thane trained himself in the art of fencing and trickery, honing his skills on the streets of Baalreisan. By the time he reached adulthood, he was a skilled fencer, adept at using tactics that other fighters might consider dishonorable. Smoke bombs, oil flasks, and cleverly concealed blades became his tools of choice, making him a dangerous opponent both in and out of formal combat. His flair and skill caught the attention of House Jaeger, who saw in him the potential for a valuable ally in both their public and clandestine dealings.

Joining House Jaeger:
Thane’s entry into House Jaeger came after a fateful encounter at one of the house’s underground gatherings. He had been performing in a high-end tavern, regaling a crowd with tales of his “many” adventures (some of which were less than true) when a Jaeger agent took notice. When a rowdy patron caused a disturbance, Thane effortlessly disarmed him, spinning his rapier in a theatrical flourish that left the crowd cheering. Impressed by his charm and skill, the agent invited Thane to meet with Jaeger’s inner circle, seeing in him a potential operative who could blend both style and subtlety.

Thane quickly became one of Jaeger’s favored operatives, his charm and cunning making him an ideal candidate for missions that required a deft touch. As a “gleeman” of sorts, Thane’s tales and flamboyant personality allowed him to move freely within Baalreisan’s social circles, gathering information and occasionally influencing opinions in Jaeger’s favor. His unique skill set made him invaluable to the house, and Jaeger provided him with protection and resources, allowing him to pursue his adventurous lifestyle under their banner.

Connection with Alisha:

 

Connection with Alisha Thane’s first encounter with Alisha was a moment he would never forget. At a Jaeger gathering, he entered the room with his usual confidence, fully prepared to charm anyone he encountered. But when he saw her, time seemed to stop. She stood alone, a vision of beauty and grace that made the rest of the room fade into shadow. Her silver hair caught the light, and her moon-pale skin seemed to glow with an ethereal quality. For the first time in his life, Thane was speechless. His usual charm and wit deserted him, leaving him to stammer a simple greeting, mesmerized by her presence. From that moment on, Thane knew he would do whatever it took to win her heart. The first words he managed were stammered and awkward, a simple greeting that made his heart race, for he had never seen anyone as captivating. He watched her move through the gathering with poise, her beauty seeming to cloak a deep sadness. She was both a dream and a mystery, the embodiment of the tales he loved to spin for others, and for the first time in his life, Thane felt himself lost for words. That night, he swore to win her heart, convinced that she was the one adventure he could not walk away from. From then on, Thane pursued Alisha with unyielding devotion. He wooed her with tales of his daring adventures, gifts chosen with care, and endless attempts to coax a smile from her guarded demeanor. Every meeting brought a new attempt—flowers, songs, and daring feats he hoped would capture her heart. He brought her moonstones, roses plucked at midnight, and even rare elven wine he had tracked down just because she once mentioned her fondness for it. Each gift was chosen with care, and with each offering, Thane found himself hoping for even the smallest smile in return. Though her responses were often reserved, even distant, Thane was undeterred. He sensed a quiet sadness in her eyes, something that only drew him closer. To him, Alisha was the embodiment of his most cherished tales, a mystery worth unraveling and a soul worth winning. Unknown to Thane, Alisha was secretly moved by his devotion. A part of her longed to believe in his love—to hope that someone as full of light as Thane could truly care for her. Yet, her doubts and self-recrimination kept her from fully accepting his advances. She couldn’t bring herself to believe that anyone could truly love a creature like her, a “blood-sucking monster” from the storybooks he loved so much. Her past, the blood-soaked history she carried, made her feel unworthy of the affection he offered. But then, one evening, Thane finally broke through her guarded exterior. They were alone at another gathering, and he had been recounting one of his more absurd escapades, hoping to make her laugh. To his amazement, Alisha’s lips curved into a smile—a true, radiant smile that lit her eyes and softened her entire expression. For a fleeting moment, Thane felt that he was seeing her unguarded, the real Alisha shining through. The warmth in her gaze was everything he had hoped for, a brief glimmer that she might indeed be capable of loving him in return. Yet just as quickly as it appeared, her smile faded, and a shadow crossed her face. She seemed to withdraw inwardly, as if terrified by her own vulnerability. Her expression returned to the reserved mask he knew so well, as though a gate had closed over her heart once more. Though Thane couldn’t understand the full extent of her fears, that single, unguarded smile was all the motivation he needed to continue his courtship. It showed him that beneath her defenses, she did have the capacity for love—and he resolved to win her heart, no matter how long it took. From that day on, Thane became even more devoted, finding every opportunity to steal moments with her. Whenever they were in the same room, he would ask her to dance, savoring the rare times she allowed him to lead her across the floor. These dances became cherished memories for him—a time when he could hold her close, even if only briefly, and silently promise her his unwavering affection. In these moments, he felt that each step brought him closer to breaking through her defenses. Once, he convinced her to spar with him, hoping to impress her with his skill. Yet he quickly realized he was outmatched, her inhuman speed and agility far beyond his own. Alisha moved with deadly precision, her strikes almost too fast to see, and within moments, she had disarmed him. Though outclassed, Thane was undeterred; if anything, his admiration only grew. Her strength and supernatural prowess were just one more part of her he cherished, and he resolved that, despite her superior abilities, he would always protect her without hesitation, no matter the odds. To Thane, Alisha was worth every effort, every rejection, and every challenge. He would often take her hands in his and say, “I don’t care where you’ve been or what you’ve done. There’s no one so far gone they can’t be brought back into the light. Let me be the one to bring you there.” His voice held a conviction that even Alisha’s doubts couldn’t fully ignore, and in those moments, she felt a flicker of hope—a small, fragile belief that perhaps, one day, she could trust him with her heart. To him, Alisha was more than her past, more than her darkness. She was a rare beauty, a woman deserving of love and acceptance. And with every smile he coaxed from her, every dance they shared, and every small moment of vulnerability she allowed, Thane knew he was one step closer to reaching her heart. He understood that it might take years, or even a lifetime, to convince her—but Thane Aleron was a man who never backed down from a fight, especially not one for the heart of the woman he adored.

Role as Jaeger’s Fencer and Entertainer:
Thane’s skill as a fencer and his talent for storytelling made him an ideal representative of House Jaeger’s charisma and reach. In public, he was the face of the house’s charm, an engaging storyteller and performer who could captivate crowds with both his tales and his skill with a blade. Thane’s antics and tales were popular across Baalreisan, making him a well-known figure in both the upper and lower circles. His tales of daring escapades often served to sway public opinion subtly, painting House Jaeger as a house of both power and style.

In combat, Thane’s style was flamboyant but deadly. He wielded his rapier with unparalleled finesse, able to dispatch opponents with swift, precise strikes. His fights were as much a performance as they were battles, often using tricks of the trade like smoke bombs, flash powder, and oil to disorient his foes. Thane was not above using unconventional tactics, and his resourcefulness made him a dangerous opponent. His quick thinking and agility allowed him to adapt to nearly any situation, a skill that Jaeger valued highly.

Personality and Beliefs:
Thane is a man of passion and confidence, living each day as though it were his last. He is bold, charming, and unabashedly romantic, both in his love for Alisha and his approach to life. Thane believes that life is meant to be lived fully, embracing every adventure and opportunity that comes his way. Though he is known for his flamboyance and wit, Thane takes his loyalty to his friends and House Jaeger seriously. When the situation calls for it, his demeanor shifts from playful to deadly serious, revealing a side of him that few have seen—a side that is calculating, strategic, and unyielding.

While he has a clear code of honor, Thane is not above using underhanded tactics when needed, believing that survival sometimes demands creativity. He holds a deep respect for those who demonstrate loyalty and courage and often sees himself as a champion for those who cannot defend themselves. His love for Alisha drives him, inspiring his finest tales and his fiercest battles. Though he knows she may never return his love, he is content to remain close to her, supporting her with unyielding devotion.

Friendship with Caelum Loreweaver:
Thane’s closest friendship is with Caelum Loreweaver, a bard whose introspective nature provides a counterbalance to Thane’s adventurous spirit. The two are a well-known duo, often found in Baalreisan’s taverns, with Caelum playing his harp or lute while Thane regales their audience with tales of daring and intrigue. Caelum understands Thane’s love for Alisha, and though he shares his own quiet admiration for her, he supports Thane without reservation.

Together, Thane and Caelum are a force to be reckoned with in Baalreisan’s social scene. Thane’s charm and flair draw people in, while Caelum’s music and eloquence add a layer of depth to their performances. The two complement each other perfectly, their friendship built on mutual respect and a shared loyalty to both House Jaeger and each other.

Legacy and Influence within House Jaeger:
Thane’s influence within House Jaeger extends beyond his skills as a fencer and entertainer. As one of the house’s more visible figures, he embodies Jaeger’s values of charm, wit, and power. His tales and flamboyant personality serve as a reminder that the house’s reach goes beyond fear and control; it extends into the hearts and minds of the people, inspiring both admiration and respect.

With each tale he tells and each duel he fights, Thane strengthens House Jaeger’s influence in Baalreisan. His loyalty to Alisha, his friendship with Caelum, and his skill as a swashbuckler make him a beloved and respected member of Jaeger’s network. Thane Aleron is not just a fencer or storyteller; he is the embodiment of the spirit of adventure, loyalty, and daring that defines House Jaeger’s place in Baalreisan’s world of shadows and intrigue.

 

Rykath and Fenn, the Twin Wolfen Warriors:
Race: Wolfen
Role: Alisha’s Loyal Guardians and Enforcers

Rykath and Fenn, twin wolfen warriors, embody the fierce warrior culture of their kind. With bipedal, wolf-like forms, they stand as powerful, primal figures, both physically imposing and highly skilled in combat. Once renowned mercenaries, Rykath and Fenn pledged themselves to Alisha with an unbreakable loyalty, their bond forged in the fires of a pivotal encounter that changed the course of their lives. Raised in a warrior clan that values strength and loyalty, the twins found a kindred spirit in Alisha, and her presence would mark a turning point in their own journey.

First Encounter with Alisha and Pledge of Loyalty:
Rykath and Fenn were once mercenaries roaming the battlefields of Baalreisan, taking on contracts that tested their combat prowess. Their skills were widely respected, but they were also feared for their ruthless efficiency. On a fateful mission, they found themselves on the opposite side of a conflict that would bring them face-to-face with Alisha. She had been sent by House Jaeger to eliminate a warlord who had been terrorizing nearby villages, and the twins were hired as the warlord’s bodyguards. The confrontation was inevitable.

When Alisha engaged the warlord’s forces, Rykath and Fenn fought her with everything they had, testing her speed, strength, and endurance in ways few had managed before. Alisha, however, proved to be far more than they anticipated. Her telekinetic control over her blades, her mastery of ranged weapons, and her almost supernatural agility allowed her to evade and counter their every move. She bested both twins in a duel that left them humbled and, to their surprise, alive. Instead of dealing a final blow, Alisha spared them, recognizing their strength and honor, and seeing no need to waste time finishing them off when they were clearly not her target. She also found animal blood to taste horrendous.

The decision struck a deep chord within Rykath and Fenn. In their warrior culture, sparing a defeated foe was not a sign of mercy but of respect—a recognition of strength, even in defeat. To be defeated by such a warrior and spared was a mark of honor. Alisha’s choice displayed not only her prowess as a fighter but a level of honor that resonated with their own values. They offered her their loyalty then and there, pledging to serve her as guardians and enforcers, devoted to protecting her with their lives. The wolfen’s warrior code dictated that a life spared in combat was a life to be pledged, and so Rykath and Fenn joined House Jaeger as Alisha’s loyal companions.

Loyalty and Roles in House Jaeger:
Once they joined House Jaeger, the twins quickly became Alisha’s most trusted bodyguards and enforcers. Their skills as warriors were unparalleled, and their connection as twins gave them an instinctive ability to work together seamlessly in battle. Rykath, the elder by minutes, is the more deliberate and cautious of the two, his loyalty to Alisha tempered with a measured approach to every mission. His sister, Fenn, is fiery and impulsive, a natural predator who relishes the thrill of combat. Together, they are a balanced force, combining strategy and ferocity to deadly effect.

Rykath and Fenn took to calling Alisha “our Lady of Shadows,” a title of respect that reflected both their reverence for her power and their bond of loyalty. They would often flank her during missions, serving as her personal guard and carrying out her orders without hesitation. Alisha came to rely on their unflinching loyalty, trusting that they would follow her into any situation, no matter the danger. The twins became her shield and her sword, embodying the fierce loyalty and warrior spirit of their people in service to her.

Partnership in Missions:
The bond between Alisha and the wolfen twins extended beyond loyalty; it became a partnership rooted in mutual respect and an understanding of each other’s strengths. In missions where Alisha required muscle and intimidation, the twins were invaluable, their presence alone often enough to make adversaries think twice. Their wolfen heritage made them natural hunters, able to track targets with a keen sense of smell and heightened awareness, a skill Alisha found particularly useful when tracking elusive enemies.

When Alisha needed a more subtle approach, she relied on their disciplined restraint. Both Rykath and Fenn were trained by Alisha herself to operate with stealth, adapting their combat skills to her unique style. Their natural strength allowed them to wield heavy weapons and shields, while Alisha’s influence encouraged them to hone their finesse, making them versatile fighters who could adapt to any situation. The telepathic bracelet set she shared with Brennar Vael was also extended to the twins during missions, allowing them to coordinate with a silent efficiency that often left opponents bewildered and outmatched.

One notable mission took them deep into enemy territory, where they were tasked with infiltrating a fortress guarded by elite mercenaries. Alisha’s plan required precise timing and absolute trust. Rykath and Fenn cleared a path for her, eliminating guards quietly and efficiently as they moved through the darkened halls. In the final encounter, when they confronted the fortress’s captain—a towering brute nearly matching the twins in size and strength—Alisha’s telekinetic control over her blades struck with deadly accuracy, allowing Rykath and Fenn to flank and dismantle their foe. Their combined power was overwhelming, and the mission became a flawless execution, the captain’s defenses no match for the synergy of Alisha and her loyal wolfen warriors.

The Bond of Shadows:
Rykath and Fenn’s bond with Alisha is unlike any other. She may have defeated them in their first meeting, but it was her act of sparing their lives and offering them purpose that earned their undying loyalty. In her, they found a leader who valued strength but tempered it with wisdom. Alisha, for her part, came to see the twins as more than warriors—they were allies she could trust with her life, a bond forged not by blood but by choice.

The wolfen, with their deep-rooted warrior culture, understood the darkness within Alisha that few others could. They sensed the conflict she carried—the bloodlust and murderous urges that were both a part of her and a shadow she could not easily escape. In the wolfen’s homeland, warriors often faced similar inner battles, with berserkers and blood-frenzied warriors walking a fine line between control and chaos. Over time, Rykath and Fenn became a support to her, sharing the wisdom of their own culture and helping her navigate her impulses.

The twins would often talk with her openly about their own experiences in the heat of battle, where bloodlust became a powerful force but one that could be honed and focused. Rykath, the more contemplative of the two, would tell her of their people’s tradition of blood-oaths and honor-bound restraint, explaining how the wolfen believed that true strength lay not just in one’s ability to kill, but in knowing when not to. Fenn, with her fiercer spirit, shared stories of the berserkers of their homeland—warriors who learned to direct their frenzy toward specific foes, a practice they called the “hunt within.” She encouraged Alisha to think of her bloodlust as part of a hunt, something she could choose to focus on enemies who threatened what she held dear rather than let it control her blindly.

Together, Rykath and Fenn offered Alisha practical methods for managing her darker instincts. In moments of deep conversation, they would practice breathing exercises used by wolfen warriors to center themselves before and after battle, a technique the twins believed could help her channel her bloodlust without succumbing to it. They helped her develop rituals before missions that allowed her to face her darker urges with purpose, viewing them as a tool rather than a curse. Through their influence, Alisha learned to treat her urges as a part of her identity, not something to suppress but to master, a process that brought her closer to inner balance.

In quiet moments, Rykath and Fenn would be found sharing tales of their homeland’s warrior rituals and battles, recounting the stories of legendary berserkers who could face even the fiercest foes with controlled fury. Alisha, in turn, shared fragments of her own past, her struggles with the darkness that lay within her, her victories over it, and the times it had won. In these exchanges, a camaraderie and kinship grew, deepening their loyalty beyond mere duty. Rykath and Fenn became the rare allies who could meet her at the edge of her own darkness and help her find her way back.

For Rykath and Fenn, serving Alisha was not just a duty—it was a privilege, a sacred bond formed in the fires of battle and strengthened by their shared understanding of what it meant to hold back the shadows within. They saw themselves as her protectors, bound by honor to stand by her side, not only as her loyal enforcers but as her guides, helping her find peace amidst the chaos that both defined and threatened her.

 

Brennar Vael
Rykath holds Brennar in high regard, respecting his intelligence and disciplined approach to strategy. He sees Brennar as a crucial ally, someone who shares his appreciation for structure and order. Rykath trusts Brennar’s calm, measured presence, finding it reassuring to have such a skilled tactician in Alisha’s circle.

Fenn, however, has a more mixed view. She finds Brennar’s secretive nature overly cautious and would prefer direct action over his intricate plans. While she acknowledges his loyalty to Alisha, she sees his reserved style as a barrier and sometimes wonders if he’s hiding something. Despite this, she respects his loyalty and recognizes that his network of spies is valuable to their cause.

Thane Aleron
Rykath finds Thane’s open devotion to Alisha admirable but sees it as a bit naive. He respects Thane’s skill with a blade and his bravery but doubts that Thane fully understands Alisha’s darker side. While he considers Thane a good-hearted companion, he occasionally worries that Thane’s romantic ideals may blind him to the complexities of Alisha’s true nature.

Fenn sees Thane as endearing, though she often rolls her eyes at his romantic gestures. She loves to tease him, finding his devotion both amusing and over-the-top, though she has a soft spot for his courage and loyalty. Despite her playful jabs, she admires that he’s willing to throw himself into danger for Alisha. In her own way, Fenn respects his unbreakable spirit, even if she thinks he’s all heart and not enough sense.

Caelum Loreweaver
Rykath respects Caelum’s quiet admiration for Alisha, finding it less naive than Thane’s overt affections. He values Caelum’s calming influence, appreciating how the bard’s music and insight can ease tensions within the group. Rykath sees Caelum as a steady presence, someone who understands Alisha’s complexity without being blinded by romantic idealism. He finds Caelum’s introspective nature to be a positive counterbalance in their circle, admiring him as a man of depth and subtlety.

Fenn, on the other hand, feels more conflicted. She finds Caelum’s secret love for Alisha frustrating, especially as it distracts him from noticing her own admiration for him. She’s both drawn to him and annoyed by his lack of interest in her, leading to playful jabs and the occasional cold shoulder. Fenn’s crush makes her critical of his unspoken affection for Alisha, leaving her wishing he would either declare his love openly or move on—and hoping, somewhere in her heart, that he might eventually turn his affections toward her.

Ilyra
Rykath finds Ilyra’s obsession with cleanliness amusing but respects her precision and discipline. Her meticulous approach to magic and order resonates with his own appreciation for controlled strength. He values Ilyra as a skilled ally and admires her willingness to serve Alisha loyally, though he is cautious about her fierce need for Alisha’s approval, seeing it as a potential vulnerability.

Fenn, however, has less patience for Ilyra’s fastidiousness, viewing it as unnecessary fuss. She often teases Ilyra about her dislike for dirt, enjoying the goblin’s dramatic reactions to any sign of mess or gore. Yet, she respects Ilyra’s effectiveness in combat, finding her magic to be a valuable asset. Fenn views Ilyra’s intense admiration for Alisha as both amusing and pitiable but still values her company, especially as a partner in their frequent banter.

Darem
Rykath appreciates Darem’s vast knowledge of the arcane and has come to respect his resourcefulness, even if he finds the halfling’s casual habits grating. He views Darem as a bit eccentric but useful, someone who hides his talents beneath a nonchalant exterior. Rykath trusts Darem’s loyalty and sees him as a valuable advisor, even if he sometimes questions his commitment to discipline.

Fenn, on the other hand, finds Darem endlessly entertaining and often laughs at his carefree manner. She loves his jokes, his hearty appetite, and his good-natured teasing. While she doesn’t fully trust his spellcasting abilities, she appreciates his cleverness and his loyalty to Alisha. Darem’s laid-back nature and humor offer a lighthearted balance to her own fierce intensity, making her enjoy his company more than she’d openly admit.

 

Ilyra the Fastidious:
Race: Goblin
Class: Sorcerer

Ilyra is a rarity among goblins, both in her magic and her meticulous nature. Unlike her kin, who revel in chaos and dirt, Ilyra is obsessed with cleanliness and order. She dresses in pristine robes, her green skin polished and flawless, and she keeps her nails sharp and clean, often using her magic to banish any hint of grime. Her abilities as a sorcerer mark her as an anomaly within goblin society, and she takes pride in her refined nature, believing it elevates her beyond the “grubby” stereotype of her race. Her fixation on control and precision led her to Alisha, a woman who exudes lethal elegance and mastery over her own dark impulses.

When Ilyra first saw Alisha, she was captivated by her aura of ruthless sophistication. Alisha was everything Ilyra aspired to embody: a figure who balanced dark desires with poise and a razor-sharp mind. Ilyra found herself willingly attached to Alisha, viewing her as both a mentor and an ideal. To Ilyra, Alisha represents the apex of what a creature of darkness can achieve with discipline and control.

Relationship with Darem:
Ilyra’s relationship with Darem is a mix of resentment and reluctant admiration. She finds his slovenly habits revolting—his unkempt hair, constant crumbs, and frequent beer stains are an offense to her highly cultivated sense of cleanliness. She often uses minor spells to push his crumbs and tankards away or sighs dramatically whenever he makes a mess. Despite this, she grudgingly respects Darem’s intellect and his talent with arcane theory, and she secretly finds his insights useful, though she would never admit it. Darem’s jovial disposition drives her mad, yet, to her own annoyance, she finds herself relying on him more often than she’d like.

Opinions of Other Characters:

Brennar Vael: Ilyra respects Brennar for his tactical brilliance and discipline, qualities she admires in herself. She regards him as one of the few in Alisha’s circle who shares her appreciation for structure and order, even if she finds his methods too indirect at times.

Thane Aleron: Ilyra views Thane as a bit of a fool, endlessly wooing a woman he’ll never fully understand. She can’t fathom his devotion to Alisha’s “lighter” side and sees him as naive. Still, she can’t deny he’s talented with a blade and a good distraction in combat.

Caelum Loreweaver: Ilyra has mixed feelings about Caelum. She finds his romantic outlook and quiet obsession with Alisha strange and perhaps even unworthy of Alisha’s time. His music, however, she appreciates, especially during long evenings. It soothes her, though she would never admit it.

Rykath and Fenn: Ilyra is wary of the twin wolfen, respecting their loyalty and strength but keeping her distance due to their wild nature. She’s seen their bloodlust firsthand and finds it unsettling, though she occasionally respects Fenn’s fierceness. Rykath’s contemplative nature also occasionally wins her grudging respect.


Darem the Jovial Scholar:
Race: Halfling
Class: Wizard

Darem is a halfling of considerable size and a laid-back disposition. He’s rarely seen without food in his hand or a tankard of ale nearby, his love for indulgence as big as his appetite for knowledge. To many, he appears unrefined and unprofessional, but beneath his carefree exterior lies a sharp intellect and extensive knowledge of arcane lore. Darem is driven by an insatiable curiosity, especially when it comes to powerful figures, which is what drew him to Alisha in the first place. In her, he sees a living legend, a paradoxical blend of grace and violence, a mystery he feels compelled to unravel.

Though Alisha’s bloodlust is far from anything Darem could match, he isn’t frightened by it. Instead, he sees it as just another side to a complex character, one that makes her more fascinating. To him, Alisha’s monstrous urges are akin to the darker heroes in his tales, characters who walk a fine line between light and shadow.

Relationship with Ilyra:
Darem finds Ilyra’s obsession with cleanliness laughable, even irritating, often making a point to be even messier just to see her reaction. Her disdain for his appearance and habits amuses him, and he occasionally goes out of his way to push her buttons—smearing crumbs across the table after he finishes eating or leaving his drink precariously close to her notes. Still, he respects her skills as a sorceress and values her precision in combat. While he wouldn’t call her a friend, he appreciates her as a teammate and ally, albeit one he enjoys annoying.

Opinions of Other Characters:

Brennar Vael: Darem respects Brennar’s intellect and strategic mind but finds his secretive nature exhausting. Darem would rather have a straightforward plan than endless intrigue, but he recognizes Brennar’s value and trusts his judgment.

Thane Aleron: Darem admires Thane’s boldness, finding his open affection for Alisha refreshing and genuine. Though he thinks Thane’s chances are slim, he appreciates his loyalty and courage and shares his love of storytelling, often swapping tales with him.

Caelum Loreweaver: Darem respects Caelum’s artistry and romantic outlook, viewing him as an unlikely kindred spirit. He’s aware of Caelum’s quiet love for Alisha, and though he teases him about it, he respects Caelum’s dedication to his craft and the complexity of his feelings.

Rykath and Fenn: Darem is wary of the twin wolfen but respects their strength and loyalty to Alisha. He finds their wildness intriguing, but he keeps his distance in combat, knowing their fierce style contrasts sharply with his own. Fenn’s fierceness and Rykath’s discipline remind him of characters from his favorite tales, and he appreciates them as protectors of the group, though he’s quick to avoid them if they get too intense.


Ilyra and Darem’s Love-Hate Relationship:
Despite their shared loyalty to Alisha, Ilyra and Darem are often at odds. Ilyra’s refined, orderly approach to magic and life clashes with Darem’s casual, carefree attitude. She finds his sloppiness and constant eating habits borderline offensive, especially since she considers herself far superior in discipline and refinement. Meanwhile, Darem enjoys goading her, playfully taunting her about her “snobbish” ways and going out of his way to be messier than usual in her presence. Yet, they both grudgingly respect the other’s skills and recognize that their differences in approach often complement each other.

In moments of true danger, they set aside their rivalry and work seamlessly together, each leveraging the other’s strengths. Ilyra’s precision and quick spellwork are invaluable, while Darem’s arcane knowledge and practical casting offer a broader approach that frequently saves them both. Ilyra may silently curse his messy habits, but she acknowledges his resourcefulness, while Darem, though he mocks her fastidiousness, has come to rely on her keen mind and sharp instincts. Their shared loyalty to Alisha is the one thing they don’t question, both holding her in high regard and feeling a fierce protectiveness for her. In their own way, each sees Alisha as a figure worthy of admiration, and it’s this shared devotion that keeps them united despite their constant bickering.

Their interactions often provide comic relief in Alisha’s circle, with Thane, Caelum, and even Rykath and Fenn occasionally stepping in to mediate their squabbles. In the end, though they might never admit it, both Ilyra and Darem trust each other deeply and would risk their lives for the other if it meant protecting Alisha and her cause. Their rivalry, at its core, is as much a sign of respect as it is an expression of their unique personalities—a complex relationship built on grudging reliance, mutual loyalty, and their shared bond with Alisha.

Tie in With Leobyron:

 

On one of Alisha's sanctioned hunting expeditions, she noticed something strange. She had only just begun her hunt when she spotted a beautiful young woman who bore a striking resemblance to a certain new operative who had recently gained unwarranted favor with Lord Jaeger. Alisha hadn’t thought much of the new operative, but Brennar had referred to her as a bewitching demoness.

He had been keeping crow eyes on her at all times, looking for an excuse to have her eliminated. Thus far, he hadn’t gathered enough evidence to take action without severe consequences. For now, patience was required.

But this woman, who looked so much like the supposed succubus, was worth investigating. Alisha decided to forego her hunt in favor of tailing the woman. She waited patiently in a dark corner, blending with the shadows until the woman left. Then, she made her rounds, inquiring about what the woman had been doing there. Her hunch proved correct—the woman was seeking information about the suspected succubus. Most interesting, indeed.

Alisha quickly reported her findings to Brennar, entirely forgetting to eat her fill that day. Blood wine it would be for dinner tonight; she always kept a stock for occasions when her regularly scheduled feeding was missed.

With Brennar informed, his crows began sniffing out everything they could about the mysterious woman and the strange man who sometimes traveled with her. The information returned was peculiar. Brennar deduced there was some form of compulsion at play between the two and noted that one of them could perform extraordinary feats of stealth. Based on the evidence, Brennar theorized the man might be some kind of ethereal creature, disappearing without a trace. Though more research was needed to confirm this, Brennar knew he could leverage the information against the man if needed. Confident in his assessment, Brennar sent one of his young crows to deliver a message.

The crow, a young urchin boy, skillfully slipped a note into the woman’s pocket before vanishing into the night. Brennar then approached Alisha to inform her of the plan. She was the only person he trusted completely. By proxy, Alisha arranged the security for the chosen location, assigning her wolfen berserkers as guards for the warehouse.

Though Brennar did not trust the wolfen personally, he knew their loyalty to Alisha was absolute. If she commanded them to walk into hell, they would do so without hesitation, and their silence in this matter was unquestionable.

Once the stage was set, all that remained was to wait. Brennar and Alisha sat in the dark of the warehouse, the only illumination a single candle on the table between them. Alisha rolled a goblet of blood wine in her hand as they spoke. Brennar laid out his plan.

"Alisha, I believe we can leverage this duet to enter the arena. They could join your group, increasing your chances of success while accomplishing two goals with one move—completing your mission and eliminating the succubus."

Alisha giggled to herself, taking a sip of her wine. “Brennar, you’re obsessed with this succubus. I’ve never worked with her, but do you truly believe one could infiltrate the house? Their kind are hunted ferociously here. Wouldn’t this be the worst place to put down roots and take over an established organization?”

Brennar’s lips curved into a sly smile. “Couldn’t one say the same about vampire kind, Alisha? And yet, here we are. Though your ambitions don’t extend to taking over the house, as I suspect hers do. It’s my duty to protect the house from threats within and without, and I have no intention of failing—not after I’ve built my empire of crows.”

Alisha burst into laughter, so hard that tears nearly came to her eyes. The absurdity of it all—her and a succubus working side by side, both unaware of the threat the other posed—was too much. Even the Skinflayer found it amusing. She had never worn the skin of a succubus before; it would surely last a very long time.

Brennar waited patiently for her laughter to subside. He knew her well by now and understood this was merely a quirk of her divided mind. When a small knock came at the door, Alisha instantly resumed her noble composure—the picture of regal perfection. Ten seconds later, the door opened, and Fenn’s head peeked in, signaling the duet had arrived. She stepped aside to let the old man and young woman enter before excusing herself and shutting the door tightly behind them.

The conversation progressed, and an agreement was struck.

As the duet was leaving, Alisha called out to the old man. Her demeanor shifted completely, and the Skinflayer’s derangement broke through. “One last thing, Lucius,” she said, her voice tinged with insanity. “When you kill the succubus... I’d like to have her skin.”

Her eyes gleamed with madness, and she giggled uncontrollably, a sadistic grin of bloody anticipation on her face. And then, it was gone. The Skinflayer receded, and Alisha, the noblewoman, returned. Her personality slip was subdued as she offered a pleasant smile that didn’t reach her eyes. She said nothing more.

RP Scenario:

 

It was late at night, or perhaps very early in the morning, when Alisha returned to her sanctum within the House of Jaeger. The mission had been a success, as expected. She had dealt with a rival house's informant in a manner as precise as it was ruthless. Her orders were explicit: the target was to die by a planted dagger enchanted to misdirect divination magic, framing another house for the crime. She carried out the task with her usual efficiency, leaving no trace of her involvement save for the dagger that pointed to someone else.

Her two loyal wolfen, Rykath and Fenn, padded silently behind her, their hulking forms casting long shadows in the dimly lit halls. As they approached her quarters, Alisha was surprised to find her personal sitting room already occupied. Lord Jaeger himself was seated there, waiting for her. Two cups rested on the table—one of fine wine for himself and the other a goblet of blood wine, specially prepared for her.

She dismissed the twins with a wave of her hand, instructing them to guard the door and ensure privacy. Their ears twitched in acknowledgment as they stationed themselves like statues outside. Alisha moved into the room, her presence as graceful as a drifting shadow. Her blood-red gown accentuated her alabaster skin and the silver radiance of her hair and eyes. A matching crimson adorned her lips and nails, completing the picture of elegance and danger. Despite her impeccable appearance, she felt a flicker of irritation—she had not been forewarned of this meeting and suspected she might still bear a few drops of blood from her latest victim, hidden only by the color of her gown.

Closing the door behind her, Alisha curtsied deeply before gliding into her seat across from the lord. She offered him a polished smile, though it was tinged with an edge of sardonic amusement. “Why, Lord Jaeger,” she said in a voice as smooth as silk. “What a surprise to find you in my study. I hope I have not caused such an occurrence through any failing of my own?”

The faintest quirk of her lips hinted at the absurdity of their charade. Pleasantries and decorum—such hollow rituals, she mused, when both of them knew her true nature. The thought made her laugh softly, her giggles spilling forth like notes from a haunted melody. But Lord Jaeger’s expression remained unchanged, his gaunt face as inscrutable as ever. His sharp eyes, predatory in their intensity, fixed on her with the weight of someone who saw far more than he revealed.

“I am not here to jest, Alisha,” he said, his voice a steady tenor devoid of humor. “You will soon have a new mission—one I believe will be most advantageous for both you and... your darker inclinations. I have entered you into the Parabellum Games. You will represent our house.”

Alisha’s silver eyes narrowed slightly, betraying the briefest flicker of suspicion. Lord Jaeger’s tone, calm yet commanding, carried an unmistakable weight as he continued. “This will serve us both. Our house will benefit financially and politically from your performance. And you…” His gaze bore into hers. “You will have the opportunity to indulge your... appetites under the guise of honor. Blood, glory, and renown—all for the benefit of House Jaeger. Perhaps even your sire will come to see you compete.”

Alisha studied him, her mind racing behind the facade of her composed exterior. This was an opportunity unlike any other. A chance to kill without restraint, to bathe in blood and call it honor, all while proving her worth not just to Jaeger but to her father. Could she surpass his expectations? Could she one day stand as an equal to those children of his borne by his own blood? Perhaps she could even surpass them in his eyes, becoming something more than a mere Blood Knight. Her smile widened as the thought took root.

“I thank you for your consideration, Lord Jaeger,” she replied, her voice unwavering. “I accept this role with pride. I will win the games and bring glory to House Jaeger. None who stand before me shall survive.”

Lord Jaeger nodded, a glimmer of satisfaction in his otherwise stoic expression. Rising to his feet, he took his leave without another word, his dark cloak swirling behind him as he exited. Alone at last, Alisha sipped her blood wine, a wicked grin spreading across her lips.

The Skinslayer stirred within, whispering gleeful promises of carnage. It taunted her with visions of slaughter and rivers of blood, but Alisha felt no need to silence it tonight. This was her moment—a sanctioned bloodbath cheered by the masses. She laughed softly, the sound echoing in the quiet room. Perhaps this life was a joke played by a godless world. But if it was, she would savor the punchline.

The Parabellum Games would be hers. Blood-soaked glory awaited.

 

Example Monster Encounter Encounter Name: Gremlin Bombardiers Difficulty Rating: Low Monster(s): Gremlins (Hobkins) x6, Gremlins (Pugwampi) x6, and Bombs x6 Monster Strategy: The fight will begin with with six Bomb's floating into the arena. Each bomb is being ridden by two Gremlins (One Hobkin and one Pugwampi each). On their initiative, two Hobkin gremlin use their Silent Image SLA to create an illusionary fog filled with smiling gremlins to block line of sight from the PCs to the bombs. The rest use Ghost Sound to imitate the laughter of gremlins from multiple places within the fog that are not directly near the actual Bomb locations. Meanwhile, the Pugwampi gremlins direct each Bomb to spread out and begin trying to flank the PCs from the above them in the air. The Bomb's themselves use their spit fire ability to target the most flammable looking PCs. Once a PC comes within range the Hobkin gremlins leap from their bombs and swarm the weakest looking target. Meanwhile the Pugwampi continue to direct the bomb's, but if they see a PC wearing fragile equipment or containers they will use their Shatter SLA to try and break the gear. Once the bombs are engaged in melee they proceed to try and bite the closest PC while the Pugwampi actively use the bombs as soft cover to keep the PCs affected by their Unluck Aura. Bombs actively try to use their Detonate ability to maximum effect unless slain before they can move into position. If a Pugwampi is still riding a Bomb when it explodes all PCs within range are subject to the Pugwampi's Unluck Aura when rolling their Reflex saves. Monster Statblocks: Gremlin, Hobkins Gremlin, Pugwampi   Credit: This stat block was converted from the FFd20 site using the Bomb creature. All credit goes to the original creator. CE Medium Elemental Init: +6; Senses: Darkvision 60ft, Low Light Vision; Perception +6 AC 15, Touch 13; Flat-Footed 12 (+2 Dex, +2 Natural, +1 Dodge) HP: 48 [4d10+8] Fort: +3, Ref: +6, Will: +4 Immune: Fire Weaknesses: Vulnerability to Cold Speed: 30ft Fly (Average) Melee: Bite +5 (1d8+1) Ranged: Spit Fire +6 ranged touch 60ft (1d6 + Burn) Str 12, Dex 15, Con 14, Int 3, Wis 10, Cha 12 Base Attack: +4; CMB: +5; CMD: 18 Feats: Dodge, Improved Initiative Skills: Fly +7, Perception +6, Survival +6 Language: Ignan Special Abilities Float - A bomb has the Float (always floating 5 feet into the air) status effect continuously unless unconscious or dead. This effect cannot be dispelled. Self-Destruct - After each successful physical attack made against the bomb, the bomb increases in size by 1-ft. in diameter (the bomb increases Strength by 2 per physical attack, size increase lasts for 1d6+4 rounds); Once the bomb is struck 3 times with a physical attack, but not killed, the bomb will use its next turn to place itself within range of as many enemies as possible before exploding as an immediate action destroying itself and dealing 4d6 points of elemental type and physical (half and half) damage to everything within a 15-ft.-radius (Reflex save DC 13 for half damage). Alternatively, if a bomb is dropped to 0hp it detonates as an immediate action. Spit Fire - Bombs can spit a glob of fire as a ranged touch attack with a range of 60ft. This deals 1d6 Fire damage and targets struck must make Reflex save DC 13 or catch fire.

[Eviltedzies]

Originally Posted by AximusLokar

Does this include the Sphere-specific drawbacks that modify the base function of spheres instead of the spellcasting tradition overall? ie: Destruction (Energy Focus) or Divination (Limited Divination: Senses Only)?

Good catch. General drawbacks are limited to 6 per casting tradition. Sphere specific drawbacks may be taken as many times as you like. [Will update the main thread with this info]

Originally Posted by AximusLokar

Also, Conjuration's Martial Companion doesn't innately grant a Martial Tradition but mentions 'some companions may qualify to trade things for a martial tradition'. Could I trade something from my Orb companion for this? Of the top of my head I'm eying it's Natural Armor and Hover Height Advancement. I don't mention it's Natural Weapon or Multiattack only because I already planned to trade that Natural Weapon for Implement Bearer (which makes Multiattack worthless anyways so it'd be kinda cheesy to trade it for something), though I'd rather have that tradition than Implement Bearer so it is on the table.

If you take the Battle Creature (Form) talent twice your conjured companion may choose to exchange Martial Weapon proficiency with a Martial Tradition. I will not be allowing the exchange of natural attacks, defenses, special qualities, ect.... for a Martial Tradition.

Originally Posted by AximusLokar

One about the function of Gory Armaments. It summons ranged weapons with basic ammunition, and allows one to create and use basic ammunition without the normal blood loss price. But could one pay that blood loss price to produce enhanced ammunition per the enhancement bonus of a created weapon? ie: Every 20 shots (the capacity of a quiver) it has to be restocked at the usual blood loss price?

I see the argument to be made for allowing this, but I will have to say no for now.

Originally Posted by AximusLokar

And finally, while this is one I think works just fine mechanically and it's honestly overspending to get a bit of synergy and stylistic cool factor, I'd rather confirm it than be blindsided. Bloodbinder gets access to Blacksmith Insights. There's a pair of Blacksmith Insights, Shieldsmith and Master Shieldsmith, that effectively allow one to use a shield unimpeded. One removes the attack penalty for using a weapon in your shield hand, the other stops you losing your shield AC when using your shield arm to attack. There's a bit more but that's what it breaks down to for my purposes. Then you have the equipment talent Shielded Gauntlet that lets you treat a gauntlet as a buckler. Do you have any objection to my archer using a magic blood gauntlet as a shield without penalty at the cost of 2 Insights and a Talent (functionally 3 talents considering I could just take a Talent with an Insight)?

If you are willing to spend that many resources just to be able to wield a gauntlet that counts as a shield while also firing a bow with it that is fine by me.

Originally Posted by AximusLokar

Legendary Talent request, Soul's Shield

Allowed

[OneDarkness]

Posting interest, I keep wanting to try and a Crimson Dancer so you can expect one of those with a heavy focus on the Blood sphere