Backstory

Rhol ‘Red’ Colbrood, the amiable halfling, grew up in the tranquil village of Helsterden among friends and family. Rhol dismissed the persistent legends surrounding his family's dark past as mere superstition from ancient history. He was known for his kind nature, enjoying the company of others and detesting any harm that befell anyone. When he decided to become an artisan, Rhol sought out the tutelage of skilled craftsman, studying carpentry, smithing, and metallurgy.

As he learned more of each trade, he began to tinker with different designs, occasionally incorporating magic into his creations. He decided that in order to  advance in his trainging, he would have to apprentice under the local artificer, Lalzivar. Rhol's days were spent absorbing all the knowledge Lalzivar would share and his  evenings were spent at the local pub, engaging in jovial conversations with fellow villagers.

Rhol eventually earned enough to reopen the family armory, "The Smiling Smithy." He split his days between the shop and working with Lalzivar. It was a dusty morning, when Rhol was sitting at his desk, thinking about the 3 masters Lalzivar had told him about: Zarmiak, Olun, and Khahyoghoth.

Each were master Artificer, specializing in powerful creations. Just as he was wondering if he should ask Lalzivar more about them, he heard his name.  "Rhol Colbrood?" "Yes, that's me," Rhol said with a wide smile, despite the shiver that went down his spine.The stranger set down a small package wrapped in cloth and twine.  His icy voice cracked when he spoke, "You must take this to Upper Lachus.

Once you are there, you will know what to do with it. If you delay for too long, I will have to kill you and choose the next in line. Leave tomorrow." Rhol started to question, but the stranger's eyes flashed purple, and Rhol fell silent, for the first time in his life he sensed true evil. He knew the stranger was telling the truth. Rhol picked up the package and held it tight to his chest signaling he would do as he was told.

Again, a cold voice, "You hold the artifact known as the Last Shard, which can only be carried by someone of his lineage without...side affects. This vessel has carried it as far as it can." It was at this point, Rhol noticed the stranger's skin seemed mottled and thin, as if it were wrapped around his body rather than attached. The stranger turned, and walked out the door without another word.

Rhol immediately opened the package and began to inspect it. It appeared to be a rock about a foot long in a very rough teardrop shape. He inspected the object, casting detect magic, then another spell to identify items, but nothing. As far as he could tell, it was just a very shiny rock. Yet, he somehow knew, the stranger meant what he said, every word.

The next morning, Rhol woke up, packed his belongings and set out for Upper Lachus. He had decided during the night that it would be good for him to go on an adventure. He could meet new people, make new friends, and seek the 3 masters on the way. Really, what could happen other than a little sightseeing and learning to be the greatest artificer ever?

Intrigued and hopeful, Rhol embarked on his quest, unconcerned with the fact that he did not know how to get to Upper Lachus, its direction, or where the masters were. He'd figure it out on the way. And this was how Rhol 'Red' Colbrood found himself unwillingly thrust into the role of Inheritor of the Last Shard.

Unfortunately, on his journey he was involved in an encounter with a Dragon and other creatures, and fell in battle.