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| name = Gale | | name = Gale | ||
| image = Gale2.png | | image = Gale2.png | ||
| role = [[Origin characters|Origin | | role = [[Origin characters|Origin Character]]<br>[[Companion]] | ||
| voice = Tim Downie | | voice = Tim Downie | ||
| full_name = Gale Dekarios | | full_name = Gale Dekarios | ||
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|str=8|dex=13|con=15|int=17|wis=10|cha=12|level=1|weight kg=75|movement m=9|prof bonus=+2|hp=8|size=Medium|type=Humanoid|initiative=+1|int save prof=yes|wis save prof=yes|va=[https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0236071 Tim Downie]|full name=Gale Dekarios|ac=11|title=The Wizard of Waterdeep}} | |str=8|dex=13|con=15|int=17|wis=10|cha=12|level=1|weight kg=75|movement m=9|prof bonus=+2|hp=8|size=Medium|type=Humanoid|initiative=+1|int save prof=yes|wis save prof=yes|va=[https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0236071 Tim Downie]|full name=Gale Dekarios|ac=11|title=The Wizard of Waterdeep}} | ||
'''Gale Dekarios''' is an [[ | '''Gale Dekarios''' is an [[Origin characters|Origin Character]] and recruitable [[Companion]] with the [[Sage]] background. He is a [[Human]] and a [[Wizard]] first appearing during [[Act One]]. | ||
A scholar and prodigy in the arcane arts, Gale is committed to unlocking the secrets of the Weave no matter the cost. He can be first found at the [[Wilderness|Roadside Cliffs]] [[Ancient Sigil Circle|waypoint]] during Act One, where he can be recruited into the party as well as romanced by characters of any gender. | A scholar and prodigy in the arcane arts, Gale is committed to unlocking the secrets of the Weave no matter the cost. He can be first found at the [[Wilderness|Roadside Cliffs]] [[Ancient Sigil Circle|waypoint]] during Act One, where he can be recruited into the party as well as romanced by characters of any gender. | ||
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=== Special features === | === Special features === | ||
* In order to sate his arcane hunger, Gale must consume magic items periodically for a total of three times. If he does not then he will be afflicted with "Arcane Hunger" which has three different stages of severity: | * In order to sate his arcane hunger, Gale must consume magic items periodically for a total of three times. If he does not then he will be afflicted with "Arcane Hunger" which has three different stages of severity: | ||
** {{ | ** {{Cond|Arcane Hunger}} gives him [[disadvantage]] to [[Constitution]] [[saving throw|saving throws]]. | ||
** {{ | ** {{Cond|Greater Arcane Hunger}} gives him disadvantage on all [[attack roll|attack rolls]] and saving throws. | ||
** {{ | ** {{Cond|Severe Arcane Hunger}} gives him disadvantage on all attack rolls and saving throws and his [[Resources#Movement Speed|movement speed]] is halved. | ||
** After reaching the third stage, if not fed Weave, Gale's netherese orb will explode leading to a [[Game Over screens|Game Over]] screen. | ** After reaching the third stage, if not fed Weave, Gale's netherese orb will explode leading to a [[Game Over screens|Game Over]] screen. | ||
* If Gale is slain, his corpse will emanate a {{ | * If Gale is slain, his corpse will emanate a {{Cond|Necrotic Aura}}, dealing {{damage text|1d4|Necrotic}} damage every turn to those around his corpse until revived. Left dead for more than three [[Long Rest|long rests]] will lead to a Game Over screen as his netherese orb detonates without magic to sustain it. | ||
* Cursed by netherese magic, Gale can cast {{SAI|Netherese Orb Blast}}, obliterating everything in the vicinity and leading to a game over screen. | * Cursed by netherese magic, Gale can cast {{SAI|Netherese Orb Blast}}, obliterating everything in the vicinity and leading to a game over screen. | ||
* Gale can create the unique {{SmRarityItem|Shadow Lantern}} in [[Moonrise Towers]], a special item that allows summoning a shadow wraith. Alternatively, he can reject the ritual, receiving [[Mystra's Benevolence (Condition)|Mystra's Benevolence]] instead, granting him advantage on [[Concentration]] checks until the next long rest. | * Gale can create the unique {{SmRarityItem|Shadow Lantern}} in [[Moonrise Towers]], a special item that allows summoning a shadow wraith. Alternatively, he can reject the ritual, receiving [[Mystra's Benevolence (Condition)|Mystra's Benevolence]] instead, granting him advantage on [[Concentration]] checks until the next long rest. | ||
* When chosen as an origin character, Gale can either cleanse or consume the Shadow Weave from the corpse of {{CharLink|Malus Thorm}}, {{CharLink|Gerringothe Thorm}} or {{CharLink|Thisobald Thorm}}, granting him one of the following boons: | * When chosen as an origin character, Gale can either cleanse or consume the Shadow Weave from the corpse of {{CharLink|Malus Thorm}}, {{CharLink|Gerringothe Thorm}} or {{CharLink|Thisobald Thorm}}, granting him one of the following boons: | ||
** | ** {{Pass|Consumed Shadow Weave}} gives Gale an additional Level 3 [[Spells#Spell Slots|Spell Slot]] that recharges on long rest if he consumed the Shadow Weave. | ||
** | ** {{Cond|Mystra's Blessing (Gale)|Mystra's Blessing}} gives Gale immunity to {{DamageType|Acid}}, {{DamageType|Cold}}, {{DamageType|Fire}}, {{DamageType|Force}}, and {{DamageType|Thunder}} damage if he cleansed the Shadow Weave. | ||
* When played as an origin character, {{CharLink|Tara}}, Gale's tressym, will join him in [[Campsite | * When played as an origin character, {{CharLink|Tara}}, Gale's tressym, will join him in the [[Campsite]] as a [[Camp Follower]]. | ||
* If Gale chooses to ask for Mystra's forgiveness during their meeting at the [[Stormshore Tabernacle]] in the [[Lower City]], she will grant him {{cond|Anointed in Splendour}} which permanently gives him a +2 bonus to all saving throws. He is the only party member who doesn't need to make an offer at one of the statues at the Stormshore Tabernacle to get this condition. | * If Gale chooses to ask for Mystra's forgiveness during their meeting at the [[Stormshore Tabernacle]] in the [[Lower City]], she will grant him {{cond|Anointed in Splendour}} which permanently gives him a +2 bonus to all saving throws. He is the only party member who doesn't need to make an offer at one of the statues at the Stormshore Tabernacle to get this condition. | ||
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=== Recruitment === | === Recruitment === | ||
Gale can be recruited as a permanent companion during [[Act One]]. He can leave the party if the goblins are sided with and the Emerald Grove is raided successfully - after the slaughter, he will confront the player and say his goodbyes, though he can be retained through dialogue. If neglected or ignored for too long, he will leave the party without much fanfare, leaving only a small note behind.{{ | Gale can be recruited as a permanent companion during [[Act One]]. He can leave the party if the goblins are sided with and the Emerald Grove is raided successfully - after the slaughter, he will confront the player and say his goodbyes, though he can be retained through dialogue. If neglected or ignored for too long, he will leave the party without much fanfare, leaving only a small note behind.{{ref|{{SmRarityItem|A Wizard's Farewell}} by Gale}} | ||
====Act One==== | ====Act One==== | ||
* Gale can be found when approaching the ''Roadside Cliffs'' [[Ancient Rune Circle]], north of the [[Ravaged Beach]]. If investigated, Gale will stick his hand out from inside the circle and ask for help. A successful ability check is required to pull him out, with multiple options available: | * Gale can be found when approaching the ''Roadside Cliffs'' [[Ancient Rune Circle]], north of the [[Ravaged Beach]]. If investigated, Gale will stick his hand out from inside the circle and ask for help. A successful ability check is required to pull him out, with multiple options available: | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''You'll have to remain extremely calm to touch him without burning him. Take a deep breath, then pull.''|tags=Karlach|roll=Strength|dc=7}} | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''Ignore the urge to maim. Grab the hand and pull.''|tags=Dark Urge|roll=Strength|dc=7}} | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''Grab the hand and pull.''|roll=Strength|dc=7}} | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''Whisper to the Weave roiling within the sigil. Attempt to calm it down.''|tags=Wizard|roll=Intelligence|dc=7}} | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''Attune yourself to the sigil's magic, then bid it to quiet down.''|tags=Warlock, Sorcerer, Bard|roll=Charisma|dc=7}} | ||
* {{Dialogue option|''Let flow some words of prayer to soothe the sigil's magic.''|tags=Cleric, Druid|roll=Wisdom|dc=7}} | |||
* {{Dialogue option|''Let flow some words of prayer to soothe the sigil's magic.''|tags=Cleric of Mystra|roll=Wisdom|dc=7|advantage=y}} | |||
* {{Dialogue option|With a keen, but calculated twist, you attempt to sabotage the sigil.|tags=Rogue|roll=Sleight of Hand|dc=12}} | |||
If the first check is failed, a second one can be attempted with increased difficulty: | If the first check is failed, a second one can be attempted with increased difficulty: | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''Take a deep breath. Stay calm and cool. When you're sure your flames won't hurt him, pull again.''|tags=Karlach|roll=Strength|dc=12}} | ||
* {{ | * {{Dialogue option|''Pull again, as hard as you can.''|roll=Strength|dc=12}} | ||
* {{Dialogue option|''Muster your strength and yank harder.''|roll=Strength|dc=7}} (if class-specific check) | |||
Failing two checks, or choosing to leave him to his fate, will mean Gale falls back into the rune circle and cannot be recruited. | Failing two checks, or choosing to leave him to his fate, will mean Gale falls back into the rune circle and cannot be recruited. | ||
=== Approval === | === Approval === | ||
{{main|Gale/approval}}[[File:Gale Approval.png|50px|left|alt=Gale Approves|link=|Gale Approves]]Gale generally approves of doing good and helping those in need, as well as solving conflicts with tact and | {{main|Gale/approval}}[[File:Gale Approval.png|50px|left|alt=Gale Approves|link=|Gale Approves]]Gale generally approves of doing good and helping those in need, as well as solving conflicts with tact and pragmatism. He likes those who appreciate the arcane arts and are willing to learn from him, as well as those who support his grand ambitions. | ||
Gale dislikes harming innocents and using unnecessary violence when diplomacy is an option. As a scholar, he disapproves of destroying or wasting valuable knowledge, and those who criticise his convictions and goals will earn his disapproval. | Gale dislikes harming innocents and using unnecessary violence when diplomacy is an option. As a scholar, he disapproves of destroying or wasting valuable knowledge, and those who criticise his convictions and goals will earn his disapproval. | ||
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== Description == | == Description == | ||
=== Appearance === | === Appearance === | ||
Gale has a simple, yet refined style to him, with clothes well-made but never ostentatious. His mousy brown hair is straight and shoulder-length, swept back with an elegant flair. His eyes are chestnut brown, his gaze soft but confident, and he keeps his facial hair neatly trimmed. On his left ear, Gale wears a silver earring shaped in the form of | Gale has a simple, yet refined style to him, with clothes well-made but never ostentatious. His mousy brown hair is straight and shoulder-length, swept back with an elegant flair. His eyes are chestnut brown, his gaze soft but confident, and he keeps his facial hair neatly trimmed. On his left ear, Gale wears a silver earring shaped in the form of an eight-pointed star, the holy symbol of Mystra — perhaps representing his former relationship with the goddess or just his affinity with magic. In the middle of his chest, a dark circle with wispy tendrils can be found, the result of absorbing [[Karsus|Karsus']] netherese magic. These tendrils extend all the way to under his left eye, faint, but ever present.{{ref|Gale received an appearance change in Patch 8 of Early Access that would remain until release. His face was changed and smaller details like his signature earring and chest tattoo were added.}} | ||
=== Personality === | === Personality === | ||
Gale is an intelligent, thoughtful wizard, with a good-hearted and peaceful nature. Despite his scholarly and slightly pompous manner of speaking, he is friendly and always willing to lend his ear to friends. As an accomplished wizard and eternal scholar, he is proud of his arcane knowledge and feats achieved as an erstwhile Chosen, yet it is this pride combined with his ambition that prevent him from seeing reason sometimes, risking repeating mistakes from the past. Still, Gale is not unreasonable, and if convinced by friends, he is willing to think twice before jumping to rash actions. Furthermore, he is good to his companions, being attentive of their problems and taking care of them however he can, often by assuming cooking duties for the camp.{{ | Gale is an intelligent, thoughtful wizard, with a good-hearted and peaceful nature. Despite his scholarly and slightly pompous manner of speaking, he is friendly and always willing to lend his ear to friends. As an accomplished wizard and eternal scholar, he is proud of his arcane knowledge and feats achieved as an erstwhile Chosen, yet it is this pride combined with his ambition that prevent him from seeing reason sometimes, risking repeating mistakes from the past. Still, Gale is not unreasonable, and if convinced by friends, he is willing to think twice before jumping to rash actions. Furthermore, he is good to his companions, being attentive of their problems and taking care of them however he can, often by assuming cooking duties for the camp.{{ref|During the end of his Companion story, Wyll remarks, "Let's hope Gale doesn't take offence if I assume cooking duties, just the once." This implies that Gale usually does the cooking. Additionally, if he is sent to camp when recruited in [[Act One]], he will tell the player he is going to cook a slow roast for their return.}} | ||
Though outwardly confident and easy-going, Gale still carries the physical and emotional wounds of his former relationship with Mystra and the consequences of dabbling in forbidden magic. As such, he is sensitive about criticism, and often reacts defensively when confronted by his past actions. All of this leads him to be willing to do anything to earn Mystra's forgiveness, even if it means sacrificing his life to do so. He also seems to hide somewhat behind his ''Gale of Waterdeep'' persona, built to project this image of a great and powerful wizard as opposed to, the way he sees it, the more mundane Gale Dekarios.{{ref | Though outwardly confident and easy-going, Gale still carries the physical and emotional wounds of his former relationship with Mystra and the consequences of dabbling in forbidden magic. As such, he is sensitive about criticism, and often reacts defensively when confronted by his past actions. All of this leads him to be willing to do anything to earn Mystra's forgiveness, even if it means sacrificing his life to do so. He also seems to hide somewhat behind his ''Gale of Waterdeep'' persona, built to project this image of a great and powerful wizard as opposed to, the way he sees it, the more mundane Gale Dekarios.{{ref|[[Open Hand Temple]] rooftop, lines spoken by Gale after inquiring about his surname upon meeting Tara.<br>''"It is. Courtesy of my mother, the inimitable, dare I say it sometimes ''unavoidable'', Morena Dekarios. It's been so long since I've used it. 'Gale Dekarios' cuts a poor figure next to the wizarding prowess of 'Gale of Waterdeep'."''}} | ||
== History == | == History == | ||
===Life in Waterdeep=== | ===Life in Waterdeep=== | ||
Born to Morena Dekarios and an unknown father,{{ref| | Born to Morena Dekarios and an unknown father,{{ref|[[Open Hand Temple]] rooftop, lines spoken by Gale after inquiring about his surname upon meeting Tara.<br>''"It is. Courtesy of my mother, the inimitable, dare I say it sometimes ''unavoidable'', Morena Dekarios. It's been so long since I've used it. 'Gale Dekarios' cuts a poor figure next to the wizarding prowess of 'Gale of Waterdeep'."''}} Gale was raised in the city of [[Waterdeep]]. A prodigy of magic from a young age, Gale learned to manipulate the [[Weave]] like a skilled virtuoso plays music, his talents and abilities manifesting in many occasions, though often with unintended consequences. One time, forbidden from having a cat of his own by his parents, Gale summoned {{CharLink|Tara}}, a tressym that would become not only his lifelong companion, but also family.{{ref|[[Secluded Cove]], dialogue with Gale after saving Mirkon.<br>''"One time my parents denied me a kitten, so I summoned myself a tressym. Dear old Tara. Beautiful creature. (...) There was that magma mephit once. Nice fellow - we kept in touch."''}} Such was their bond that Gale disallowed any attempts at referring to Tara as his pet, even if Tara considered him the "most expensive pet in Waterdeep". After Gale's departure from home, Tara would keep mother Dekarios company throughout the years. Other less successful attempts resulted in a fiery meeting with a [[Magma Mephit]], though he kept in touch with them over the years, nonetheless.{{ref|[[Secluded Cove]], dialogue with Gale after saving Mirkon.<br>''"One time my parents denied me a kitten, so I summoned myself a tressym. Dear old Tara. Beautiful creature. (...) There was that magma mephit once. Nice fellow - we kept in touch."''}}{{ref|It is likely that Gale's summoned mephit is the same magma mephit who appears in {{Quest|In Case of Death...}}}} In time, Gale would be enrolled at the prestigious {{FRWiki|Blackstaff Academy}}, an educational institution for promising wizards and sorcerers.{{ref|[[Arcane Tower]], lines spoken by Gale after reaching the tower and speaking to him.<br>''"Ah. Quite. A misadventure from my days as an apprentice at Blackstaff Academy. I was but a child, only a few months into my studies, but already I knew I was destined for greatness. No one believed me, of course, so I decided to prove it. To cast a spell with the Blackstaff itself. From one perspective, I succeeded. I opened a portal. However, instead of pointing it at the first year dormitory, I found myself pulled into limbo, facing a very ''irritated'' Death Slaad. Fortunately, The Blackstaff himself came to the rescue, hauling me back from the brink, and straight into several months of writing lines."''}} | ||
===Blackstaff Academy=== | ===Blackstaff Academy=== | ||
The academy seemed the perfect place to nourish his talents, as Gale deeply believed he was destined for greatness despite being only a child. Still, young Gale's misadventures would continue even at the academy. Irritated with everyone's lack of faith in him, he attempted to cast a portal spell with the | The academy seemed the perfect place to nourish his talents, as Gale deeply believed he was destined for greatness despite being only a child. Still, young Gale's misadventures would continue even at the academy. Irritated with everyone's lack of faith in him, he attempted to cast a portal spell with the {{FRWiki|Blackstaff_(staff)|Blackstaff}} itself. Though it worked, rather than returning to his dormitory as he intended, the resulting portal pulled him into {{FRWiki|Limbo}}, facing a rather angry Death Slaad. Before Gale could face the slaad, the current {{FRWiki|Blackstaff Archmage}} pulled Gale back, and punished him with months of tedious work.{{ref|[[Arcane Tower]], lines spoken by Gale after reaching the tower and speaking to him.<br>''"Ah. Quite. A misadventure from my days as an apprentice at Blackstaff Academy. I was but a child, only a few months into my studies, but already I knew I was destined for greatness. No one believed me, of course, so I decided to prove it. To cast a spell with the Blackstaff itself. From one perspective, I succeeded. I opened a portal. However, instead of pointing it at the first year dormitory, I found myself pulled into limbo, facing a very ''irritated'' Death Slaad. Fortunately, The Blackstaff himself came to the rescue, hauling me back from the brink, and straight into several months of writing lines."''}} | ||
===Chosen of Mystra=== | ===Chosen of Mystra=== | ||
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== Involvement == | == Involvement == | ||
[[File:Gale Icon.png|right|125px]] | [[File:Gale Icon.png|right|125px]] | ||
{{Hatnote|See main article: [[The Wizard of Waterdeep]]}} | {{Hatnote|See main article: [[The Wizard of Waterdeep]]}} | ||
''The Wizard of Waterdeep'' is Gale's personal quest. It is added to the journal upon recruiting him and spans all three acts of the game. | ''The Wizard of Waterdeep'' is Gale's personal quest. It is added to the journal upon recruiting him and spans all three acts of the game. | ||
=== Act One === | |||
Gale can be found at the Roadside Cliffs [[Ancient Rune Circle|rune circle]]. Likely trapped as he hastily escaped the crashing [[Nautiloid]], he asks the party for assistance in getting him out. Once free, he recognizes the party as other victims of the [[Illithid]] abroad the sieged ship and quickly offers his services as a wizard of great renown. | Gale can be found at the Roadside Cliffs [[Ancient Rune Circle|rune circle]]. Likely trapped as he hastily escaped the crashing [[Nautiloid]], he asks the party for assistance in getting him out. Once free, he recognizes the party as other victims of the [[Illithid]] abroad the sieged ship and quickly offers his services as a wizard of great renown. | ||
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With the truth out, and concerned about his current predicament, Gale begins looking into alternative solutions to sate the netherese orb. | With the truth out, and concerned about his current predicament, Gale begins looking into alternative solutions to sate the netherese orb. | ||
As the party continues their travels, they eventually encounter an old man in the trail leading to the [[Shadow-Cursed Lands]] in the [[Rosymorn Monastery Trail]]. Gale recognizes the man as none other than {{CharLink|Elminster|Elminster Aumar}}, the legendary ''Sage of Shadowdale'' and a former mentor of his. Elminster announces that he comes to deliver an important message to Gale, and asks to speak in peace back at camp. There, he reveals that Mystra has been watching over Gale and following the movements of the [[Cult of the Absolute]] with great attention. Mystra sees the [[Absolute]] as a credible threat to the world, and believes the only person able to stop them is Gale. Thus, she offers a bargain her former | As the party continues their travels, they eventually encounter an old man in the trail leading to the [[Shadow-Cursed Lands]] in the [[Rosymorn Monastery Trail]]. Gale recognizes the man as none other than {{CharLink|Elminster|Elminster Aumar}}, the legendary ''Sage of Shadowdale'' and a former mentor of his. Elminster announces that he comes to deliver an important message to Gale, and asks to speak in peace back at camp. There, he reveals that Mystra has been watching over Gale and following the movements of the [[Cult of the Absolute]] with great attention. Mystra sees the [[Absolute]] as a credible threat to the world, and believes the only person able to stop them is Gale. Thus, she offers a bargain her former Chosen cannot resist: redemption in exchange for his live. Elminster explains that the power of the netherese orb lodged within Gale can be harnessed as a weapon used to destroy the Absolute for good and stabilizes Gale's orb, controlling its hunger pangs and allowing Gale to detonate it at will. Gale considers the proposition solemnly, and thanks Elminster for his words. With the message imparted, Elminster wishes Gale and the party the best of luck in defeating the Absolute and departs. | ||
When spoken to, Gale seems to be shocked at Mystra's directive, but considers it seriously. This is the chance he was waiting for, redemption in Mystra's eyes for the cost of martyrdom. The party can support or dissuade him from following this path. As an origin, when {{CharLink|Tara}} is told about the plan, she disapproves of the idea, and will force Gale to promise her he will find another way. | When spoken to, Gale seems to be shocked at Mystra's directive, but considers it seriously. This is the chance he was waiting for, redemption in Mystra's eyes for the cost of martyrdom. The party can support or dissuade him from following this path. As an origin, when {{CharLink|Tara}} is told about the plan, she disapproves of the idea, and will force Gale to promise her he will find another way. | ||
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If Gale dies at some point during his adventures, his body will start emanating a necrotic aura that will harm those near his corpse. The first time this happens, a projection of him will appear nearby that will begin {{Quest|In Case of Death...}}. The projection will give precise instructions on how to revive Gale, and stress the importance of doing so before it is too late. Following the instruction grants a {{SmRarityItem|Scroll of True Resurrection}}, reviving Gale with it will result in his gratitude and some information on his condition. If Gale dies again, it will be up to the party to find the means to revive him. Should the party leave him dead for too long, it will result in a Game Over screen when the netherese orb within him explodes after being left hungry for too long. | If Gale dies at some point during his adventures, his body will start emanating a necrotic aura that will harm those near his corpse. The first time this happens, a projection of him will appear nearby that will begin {{Quest|In Case of Death...}}. The projection will give precise instructions on how to revive Gale, and stress the importance of doing so before it is too late. Following the instruction grants a {{SmRarityItem|Scroll of True Resurrection}}, reviving Gale with it will result in his gratitude and some information on his condition. If Gale dies again, it will be up to the party to find the means to revive him. Should the party leave him dead for too long, it will result in a Game Over screen when the netherese orb within him explodes after being left hungry for too long. | ||
=== Act Two === | |||
While exploring the [[Shadow-Cursed Lands]], Gale and the party can find a hidden chamber belonging to {{CharLink|Balthazar}} in [[Moonrise Towers]]. The chamber is clearly used for the necromancer's experiments, and upon inspecting a nearby table, Gale will be attempt to make sense of the writings on it, beginning the quest {{Quest|Balthazar's Experiment}}. He reveals that the sigils are used in the fabrication of {{SmRarityItem|Moonlantern|Moonlanterns}}, and that given enough time, he can create a better one himself. The ritual does require using dark magic forbidden by Mystra, leaving the decision up to the party whether to encourage or dissuade Gale from finishing the necromancer's work. Allowing Gale to complete the lantern results in the party gaining a {{SmRarityItem|Shadow Lantern}}, an upgraded version of the regular moonlanters found, while destroying the sigils rewards Gale with [[Mystra's Benevolence (Condition)|Mystra's Benevolence]] until the next long rest. | While exploring the [[Shadow-Cursed Lands]], Gale and the party can find a hidden chamber belonging to {{CharLink|Balthazar}} in [[Moonrise Towers]]. The chamber is clearly used for the necromancer's experiments, and upon inspecting a nearby table, Gale will be attempt to make sense of the writings on it, beginning the quest {{Quest|Balthazar's Experiment}}. He reveals that the sigils are used in the fabrication of {{SmRarityItem|Moonlantern|Moonlanterns}}, and that given enough time, he can create a better one himself. The ritual does require using dark magic forbidden by Mystra, leaving the decision up to the party whether to encourage or dissuade Gale from finishing the necromancer's work. Allowing Gale to complete the lantern results in the party gaining a {{SmRarityItem|Shadow Lantern}}, an upgraded version of the regular moonlanters found, while destroying the sigils rewards Gale with [[Mystra's Benevolence (Condition)|Mystra's Benevolence]] until the next long rest. | ||
After reaching the [[Mind Flayer Colony]] the party will finally come face to face with the truth of the Absolute: a gargantuan [[Elder Brain]] controlled by {{CharLink|Ketheric Thorm}}, {{CharLink|Enver Gortash}} and {{CharLink|Orin|Orin the Red}}, Chosen of the [[Dead Three]], using the fabled {{SmRarityItem|Crown of Karsus} | After reaching the [[Mind Flayer Colony]] the party will finally come face to face with the truth of the Absolute: a gargantuan [[Elder Brain]] controlled by {{CharLink|Ketheric Thorm}}, {{CharLink|Enver Gortash}} and {{CharLink|Orin|Orin the Red}}, Chosen of the [[Dead Three]], using the fabled {{SmRarityItem|Crown of Karsus}}. With the elder brain and the Chosen all gathered in a single location, Gale decides that no better opportunity will present itself, and prepares to detonate his netherese orb as ordered by Mystra. The party can encourage Gale to go through with Mystra's directive, destroying everything in the vicinity including the Absolute and the Chosen, as well as the party. Because this course of action does not remove the tadpoles already implanted in the victims around the {{FRWiki|Sword Coast}}, it causes a mass ceremorphosis as the tadpoles wake from their stasis. Without anything controlling them, rampart illithid ravage the lands, infecting and destroying everything they see, leading to an early Game Over screen. | ||
Gale can be convinced to do otherwise, however, by passing certain dialogue ability checks in order for him to stand down. Alternatively, he can be left in camp when adventuring through the illithid colony, skipping his interactions. Though he will be disheartened at having defied Mystra and thus eschewed redemption in her eyes, he quickly shifts his focus to the artefact controlling the elder brain. Gale will identify it as as the Crown of Karsus, one of the regalia of the ancient archwizard Karsus, and an exceptionally powerful arcane object thought long lost. Convinced it is the key to defeating the Absolute for good, and asks the party to help him find more information about it. Since the group's destination is Baldur's Gate, he believes the famous [[Sorcerous Sundries]] must have information on netherese magic, making it worth a visit. | Gale can be convinced to do otherwise, however, by passing certain dialogue ability checks in order for him to stand down. Alternatively, he can be left in camp when adventuring through the illithid colony, skipping his interactions. Though he will be disheartened at having defied Mystra and thus eschewed redemption in her eyes, he quickly shifts his focus to the artefact controlling the elder brain. Gale will identify it as as the Crown of Karsus, one of the regalia of the ancient archwizard Karsus, and an exceptionally powerful arcane object thought long lost. Convinced it is the key to defeating the Absolute for good, and asks the party to help him find more information about it. Since the group's destination is Baldur's Gate, he believes the famous [[Sorcerous Sundries]] must have information on netherese magic, making it worth a visit. | ||
=== Act Three === | |||
Once at Baldur's Gate, Gale will recommend visiting Sorcerous Sundries with haste, sure that the renowned bookstore will have tomes on netherese magic that can be of use in defeating the Absolute. There, when inquired about possible books on the matter, {{CharLink|Tolna Tome-Monger}} will answer that a tome containing information on Karsus' Folly and Netheril exists, yet it is kept under lock in the vaults as the information is too sensitive for most readers and access is strictly forbidden. The party can convince her to volunteer information on how to reach the vaults, or break in themselves through subtlety. Whatever the case, once in the vaults, the party must follow the correct path to reach Karsus' vault, containing the ancient tome {{SmRarityItem|The Annals of Karsus}}. Gale can be given the tome after reading, and he will exclaim that it not only contains information on the Crown of Karsus, but also details on how it was constructed, making it possible to reforge it after destroying the elder brain. Gale's ambition grows at the prospect of the power he could wield with the Crown, speculating that he could become a god strong enough to challenge even Mystra. The party can support his plans to be free from the yoke of Mystra, or challenge him about them, warning against treading down the same path Karsus once did before the fall of his empire. | Once at Baldur's Gate, Gale will recommend visiting Sorcerous Sundries with haste, sure that the renowned bookstore will have tomes on netherese magic that can be of use in defeating the Absolute. There, when inquired about possible books on the matter, {{CharLink|Tolna Tome-Monger}} will answer that a tome containing information on Karsus' Folly and Netheril exists, yet it is kept under lock in the vaults as the information is too sensitive for most readers and access is strictly forbidden. The party can convince her to volunteer information on how to reach the vaults, or break in themselves through subtlety. Whatever the case, once in the vaults, the party must follow the correct path to reach Karsus' vault, containing the ancient tome {{SmRarityItem|The Annals of Karsus}}. Gale can be given the tome after reading, and he will exclaim that it not only contains information on the Crown of Karsus, but also details on how it was constructed, making it possible to reforge it after destroying the elder brain. Gale's ambition grows at the prospect of the power he could wield with the Crown, speculating that he could become a god strong enough to challenge even Mystra. The party can support his plans to be free from the yoke of Mystra, or challenge him about them, warning against treading down the same path Karsus once did before the fall of his empire. | ||
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== Interactions == | == Interactions == | ||
=== Companion interactions === | === Companion interactions === | ||
Gale has unique dialogue interactions as a companion available after certain events. Whenever one is available, he will have a floating [ ! ] icon above him. | Gale can be spoken with {{SAI|Speak with Dead}} has unique dialogue interactions as a companion available after certain events. Whenever one is available, he will have a floating [ ! ] icon above him. | ||
==== Act One ==== | ==== Act One ==== | ||
* If the player intervenes in the confrontation between {{CharLink|Arka}} and {{CharLink|Sazza}} standing in harm's way for the goblin, Gale will reminisce about a similar situation he saw in the | * If the player character intervenes in the confrontation between {{CharLink|Arka}} and {{CharLink|Sazza}} standing in harm's way for the goblin, Gale will reminisce about a similar situation he saw in the {{FRWiki|Yawning Portal}}. | ||
* Gale will seek out the player when he requires a new magic item to feed on. This can occur thrice. | * Gale will seek out the player when he requires a new magic item to feed on. This can occur thrice. | ||
* After saving {{CharLink|Mirkon}} from the harpies near the grove, Gale will reminisce about his childhood with the party. | * After saving {{CharLink|Mirkon}} from the harpies near the grove, Gale will reminisce about his childhood with the party. | ||
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* '''Narrator:''' *The corpse remains silent. It does not know.* | * '''Narrator:''' *The corpse remains silent. It does not know.* | ||
{{Dialogue end}} | {{Dialogue end}} | ||
==Loot== | ==Loot== | ||
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*{{MdRarityItem|Simple Robe|override_icon=Simple Robe Unfaded Icon.png|override_rarity=common|Gale's Simple Robe}} | *{{MdRarityItem|Simple Robe|override_icon=Simple Robe Unfaded Icon.png|override_rarity=common|Gale's Simple Robe}} | ||
*{{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots|override_icon=Generated_ARM_Camp_Shoes_Gale_Unfaded.png|override_rarity=common|Gale's Tasteful Boots}} | *{{MdRarityItem|Tasteful Boots|override_icon=Generated_ARM_Camp_Shoes_Gale_Unfaded.png|override_rarity=common|Gale's Tasteful Boots}} | ||
*{{MdRarityItem|Keychain}} | *{{MdRarityItem|Keychain}} | ||
*{{MdRarityItem|Netherese Briefs}} | *{{MdRarityItem|Netherese Briefs}} | ||
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==Gallery== | ==Gallery== | ||
<gallery heights=" | <gallery heights="250"> | ||
File:Gale Model.webp|In-game model. | File:Gale Model.webp|In-game model. | ||
File:Gale Camp Model.webp|Camp model. | File:Gale Camp Model.webp|Camp model. | ||
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==Related literature== | ==Related literature== | ||
*{{MdRarityItem|The Annals of Karsus}} | *{{MdRarityItem|The Annals of Karsus}} | ||
*{{MdRarityItem|A Wizard's Farewell}} | *{{MdRarityItem|A Wizard's Farewell}} | ||
== Notes== | ==Notes and References== | ||
{{notebegin}} | {{notebegin}} | ||
{{div col}}{{reflist}}{{div col end}} | |||
{{noteend}} | {{noteend}} | ||
==External links== | ==External links== | ||