Otis

Otis is a rugged, stoic presence in the village of Nulb. Known locally as a skilled smith and stable keeper, he maintains a quiet yet undeniable influence over the town. While Otis appears to be nothing more than a seasoned ex-mercenary running a simple smithy, his layers of complexity, skills, and hidden affiliations make him one of Nulb’s most intriguing figures. His services are essential to the rougher folk of Nulb, from fixing horseshoes and crafting weaponry to maintaining armor for those who require more than a blacksmith's touch.

Blacksmith Description

Otis is a tall, broad-shouldered man with weathered skin and hands calloused from years at the forge. His face is framed by a grizzled beard, streaked with gray, and his piercing blue eyes hold a shrewd, calculating gaze that seems out of place for a mere village blacksmith. Clad in simple leather and a heavy apron, Otis moves with a fluidity that hints at his experience as a warrior, and his powerful frame suggests he is more than capable of defending himself and his establishment.

• Appearance: Tall, muscular with a seasoned warrior's build. Has piercing blue eyes and a grizzled beard.
• Attire: Often seen in a thick leather apron over his work clothes, he embodies a rough but dependable image.
• Demeanor: Stoic, slightly mysterious, with a quiet strength that resonates through his interactions.

Otis the Blacksmith Background

Otis arrived in Nulb years ago, presenting himself as an ex-mercenary who desired a quieter life after years of combat. He purchased the smithy and stable, quickly establishing himself as a trustworthy craftsman for locals and passing travelers alike. While his past remains a mystery, Otis occasionally shares tales of battles and far-off lands, sparking whispers about his true origins. Despite his reticence, Otis is respected by the villagers, with most assuming he keeps to himself out of a desire for peace.

• Origin: Appeared in Nulb claiming to be a retired mercenary; few know of his true past.
• Reputation: Known as reliable and hardworking, Otis maintains a quiet, stoic presence in Nulb.
• Mystery: Though respected, Otis is a source of speculation among locals, who sense there is more to him than meets the eye.

Otis History

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Early Life and Upbringing (534 CY - 540 CY)

Otis Fletcher was born in the small village of Hommlet, a modest community in the Kron Hills under the Viscounty of Verbobonc. His parents, hardworking farmers, instilled in him the values of respect for the land and community. Otis’s father, Zed Fletcher, served as the local Militia Captain, a role that gave Otis early exposure to the idea of service and protection.

• Birth: 534 CY in Hommlet, Kron Hills, Verbobonc
• Family: Son of Zed Fletcher, a Militia Captain, and his wife, both respected figures in Hommlet
• Early Influences: Exposure to his father’s role in the militia; values of service and loyalty were instilled early

Growing Affinity for the Wilderness (540 CY - 551 CY)

Though expected to follow the family trade of farming, young Otis was captivated by the wilderness. He preferred the Gnarley Forest to the fields, spending countless hours tracking animals and learning their patterns. During one of his wanderings, he became lost, only to be found by elves who lived deep in the forest. These elves taught Otis skills in tracking, survival, and respect for nature, sparking a life-long friendship with them. His time with the elves led to his training as a ranger, developing skills that would set him apart from the average villager.

• Friendship with Elves: Learned tracking, stealth, and survival from elven mentors in the Gnarley Forest
• Ranger Training: Formally trained by the elves, advancing rapidly due to his keen aptitude and affinity for the woods
• Skills Developed: Tracking, archery, survival skills, and a deep respect for nature and elven lore

Early Adventures and the Encounter with Mordenkainen (551 CY - 560 CY)

Otis’s curiosity and skills led him on many adventures across the Viscounty and beyond. In his travels, he encountered a powerful mage named Mordenkainen, who along with his apprentice, Bigby, aided Otis in defeating a band of marauding trolls. This fateful meeting left a strong impression on Otis and opened the door for him to join Mordenkainen’s secretive organization, the Citadel of Eight, a group dedicated to preserving balance in the Flanaess.

• Meeting Mordenkainen: Assisted by Mordenkainen and Bigby in a battle against trolls near Hommlet
• Invitation to Citadel of Eight: Recruited by Mordenkainen as a ranger; joined the ranks of notable adventurers
• Skills Honed: Experienced in team coordination and learned to work with a diverse group of adventurers

Time with the Citadel of Eight (561 CY - 569 CY)

Joining the Citadel of Eight was both a challenging and enlightening experience for Otis. Among his new allies were some of the Flanaess's most powerful figures, including Mordenkainen, Prince Melf Brightflame, and Robilar. However, Otis found the group dynamics difficult. The Citadel was rife with internal politics, differing philosophies, and clashing personalities. He respected Mordenkainen but became wary of his leader’s intense ambition and obsession with balance. Over time, Otis grew disillusioned with the group's constant urban and dungeon expeditions, which he felt ignored the real threats facing the natural world.

• Role in Citadel: Served as a dedicated ranger; his tracking and survival skills were invaluable to the group
• Conflicted Loyalties: Became skeptical of Mordenkainen's philosophy, wary of being a “tool” for a vague “balance”
• Growing Disillusionment: Frustrated by the group's focus on treasure and cave expeditions rather than protecting the wilds and rural communities

The Breaking Point and Return to Hommlet (569 CY)

The Citadel of Eight was destined to fracture. Disagreements between members like Robilar and Tenser, who often argued over morality, eventually tore the group apart. Otis, fed up with the Citadel’s infighting and narrow focus, left the group, decrying them as “cave-delvers and treasure seekers” blind to the broader dangers in the world. He returned to Hommlet, drawn by rumors of trouble brewing in the Gnarley Forest and Nulb. It was during this period that Otis heard unsettling tales of the Temple of Elemental Evil’s rise and its corrupting influence on the land he held dear.

• Leaving the Citadel: Severed ties with the Citadel, frustrated by their lack of focus on “real problems”
• Return to Hommlet: Rejoined his community, where he continued to protect the land, with a keen eye on growing threats from the Temple of Elemental Evil
• Disillusionment with Adventure: Lost faith in adventuring as a means of real change, focused instead on local protection and serving the good people of Hommlet

Otis’s Secret Role and Hidden Identity

Though he returned under the guise of a simple blacksmith and ex-mercenary, Otis’s ties to the Gnarley Rangers and his training as a ranger remained. Unbeknownst to most in Hommlet and Nulb, he was also a knight in the service of Furyondy and Veluna, working as a covert agent monitoring the Temple of Elemental Evil's activities. Under the cover of a quiet life, Otis continued to wage a secret war against the forces of corruption that threatened his homeland, waiting for the right moment to act and gathering allies along the way.

• Ranger Knight: Operates secretly as a knight of Veluna and Furyondy, aiding those in need against evil
• Agent Against Evil: Monitors activities around the Temple of Elemental Evil, maintains a network of spies including giant owls and sprites
• Dual Identity: Known publicly as a simple blacksmith but operates as a guardian ranger secretly

Otis Fletcher and the Battle of Emridy Meadows

A Fateful Turning Point (569 CY)

In 569 CY, one of the most decisive battles in the Flanaess's recent history erupted on the fields of Emridy Meadows, a confrontation between the forces of good and the rising threat of Elemental Evil. This battle became a touchstone for Otis, not for his presence, but for his absence. As the Citadel of Eight’s members were spread across the Flanaess, embroiled in personal pursuits and individual agendas, only Serten, the devout cleric of St. Cuthbert, answered the call to defend the forces of good. He fought valiantly beside Prince Thrommel IV of Furyondy, facing overwhelming waves of humanoid soldiers, fanatical worshippers, and elemental monstrosities unleashed by the Temple of Elemental Evil.
For Otis, however, The Battle of Emridy Meadows was a bitter reminder of the cost of his wanderlust. The same day that Serten and the allied forces clashed with evil on the eastern fields, Otis was still struggling through the Gnarley Forest, where he had encountered pockets of evil that had festered while he was adventuring with the Citadel. Aware of the impending battle, he had hurried eastward, but found himself beset by agents of the temple and its corrupting influence on the creatures of the forest. By the time Otis reached the site of Emridy Meadows, the battle was over, and Serten had fallen in combat, surrounded by enemies with none of his friends by his side.

• Battle's Start: The Battle of Emridy Meadows, a pivotal conflict against the Temple of Elemental Evil’s forces, unfolds.
• The Citadel’s Absence: Only Serten, among the Citadel of Eight, joins the fight; Otis is delayed, others are scattered on separate missions.
• Otis’s Arrival: Arrives too late, finding the fields littered with the dead and the news of Serten’s sacrifice.
• Grief and Rage: A Warrior's Sorrow

The news of Serten’s death struck Otis with the weight of a personal failing. He wept openly—not only in grief but also in frustration and guilt. His fellow villagers, though kind, looked upon him with quiet questions. They could not understand why their beloved ranger, their guardian of Hommlet, had been absent when they needed him most. Their unspoken words haunted Otis: “Where were you when we needed you?” He had been out in the world, chasing shadows with the Citadel, while evil grew unchecked in the lands he had sworn to protect.
Otis’s sorrow was laced with fury, directed at himself and the members of the Citadel who he felt had lost sight of their mission. In his mind, Mordenkainen and the others were preoccupied with mysteries and arcane secrets while the real battle—one that directly threatened their homelands—had unfolded without them.

• Mourning Serten: Otis is deeply affected by the death of Serten, a friend and the only member of the Citadel to have answered the call.
• Questioned Loyalty: Villagers’ kind words mask an underlying disappointment in his absence, fueling Otis’s guilt and grief.
• Anger at the Citadel: Blames the Citadel’s leaders for their obsession with faraway dangers and neglect of their own lands.

The Return to Vigilance (570 CY - 574 CY)

Shaken by the events at Emridy Meadows, Otis returned to the Gnarley Forest and the lands around Hommlet with renewed purpose. He vowed never to leave his homeland vulnerable again. Otis took up his old role with vigor, patrolling the fields of Emridy and the paths of the Gnarley, tirelessly clearing the forest of any remnants of the Temple's influence. He faced down bands of straggling cultists, hobgoblins, and other sinister agents who had survived the battle and fled into the wilderness. He drove them out, using his knowledge of the land to become a relentless sentinel against encroaching darkness.
As word of his efforts spread, the fields and forests slowly returned to normal. Villagers felt safe once more, and the prosperity of Hommlet increased as crops flourished and trade resumed. Adventurers still passed through, but Otis knew that their interest in the region was fleeting. Unlike him, they would not remain once the land was “safe” again. The villagers began to rely on Otis as both a protector and a symbol of resilience. They no longer whispered questions of his loyalty; instead, they looked to him with pride.

• Reclaiming the Gnarley: Otis dedicates himself to rooting out all traces of Elemental Evil from his beloved forest.
• Guardian of Hommlet: Resumes his role as the protector of Hommlet and the fields of Emridy.
• Restored Prosperity: Villagers thrive under Otis’s vigilance, and the region’s prosperity is renewed.

Lingering Regrets and the Weight of Responsibility (574 CY - 576 CY)

Otis’s grief over Serten’s death and his own perceived failures weighed heavily on him. Despite the passing years, he could not forget his absence at Emridy Meadows or the possibility that he might have saved Serten. As he patrolled the roads and forest paths, he could not escape the haunting memories of the battle he had missed, nor the implications of what might have happened had he and the Citadel of Eight united in that moment. He often found himself standing before the ruins of the Temple of Elemental Evil, staring at the stones as if trying to divine some answer. Had he stayed in Hommlet, could he have prevented the rise of the temple altogether?
These doubts became a source of silent suffering for Otis, yet he channeled them into his work. Never again would he allow such evil to grow unchecked in his homeland. In time, fewer and fewer monsters or villains dared to encroach upon Hommlet, until the once-thriving community of adventurers moved on, seeking greater challenges elsewhere. Yet, Otis remained, bound by his silent vow.

• Enduring Guilt: Otis is haunted by thoughts of what might have been if he had been present at Emridy Meadows.
• Frequent Patrols: Driven by guilt and responsibility, he redoubles his vigilance over the Gnarley and the paths to Hommlet.
• Solitary Defender: The village thrives under his protection, but Otis feels alone in his mission, knowing he must remain vigilant.

Living Incognito in Nulb (576 CY)

By 576 CY, Otis took his mission a step further, establishing himself incognito in the rough-and-tumble village of Nulb. Disguised as an ordinary blacksmith and ex-mercenary, he carefully monitored the Temple of Elemental Evil’s growing influence. With rumors of a new threat emerging from within the temple’s shadowed walls, Otis saw this as his chance to protect his homeland more effectively, using the anonymity of Nulb’s chaotic environment to gather intelligence. His vigilance was no longer just an exercise in redemption, but a strategy to uncover and prevent threats before they reached Hommlet.
Otis has no illusions about the danger he faces in Nulb. He keeps his true identity and skills concealed, maintaining the facade of a simple craftsman while watching the Temple’s activities closely. He knows that, should the Temple of Elemental Evil rise again, he may be the first line of defense—a duty he has willingly accepted, for he knows he cannot fail his people a second time.

• New Role in Nulb: Otis lives under a false identity, posing as a blacksmith to watch the Temple’s activities.
• Quiet Vigilance: Carefully gathers intelligence, reporting to allies in Hommlet and Veluna when needed.
• Resolve to Protect: Driven by his past mistakes, he refuses to let evil take root again, prepared to act should the Temple rise once more.

Summary of Otis’s Journey

From his humble beginnings in Hommlet to his days as a ranger in the Citadel of Eight, Otis Fletcher’s path has been marked by regret, redemption, and relentless duty. The scars of his past—both literal and emotional—fuel his vigilance over the lands he loves. Though he may be unrecognized by history as a hero of Emridy Meadows, Otis has chosen a more solitary but equally important role: that of an unsung guardian, ever watchful for the darkness that would encroach upon his homeland.

Otis’s Family: The Fletchers of Hommlet

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Otis’s roots run deep in Village of Hommlet, where his family has lived for generations at the 2. Fletcher Farmstead, fostering a legacy of strength, integrity, and duty to the village. His parents, Zed and Mara Fletcher, are still respected figures in the village, though age has slowed them. Zed Fletcher, Otis’s father, is the village’s esteemed Militia Captain, a veteran of the fields and defender of Hommlet’s peaceful way of life. Despite his years, Zed commands respect from the townsfolk, and his presence alone serves as a reminder of the strength and resilience that have protected Hommlet through difficult times. Mara, Otis’s mother, is a warm-hearted woman, known for her wisdom and sharp wit, who quietly holds the family together with grace and fortitude.

• Father, Zeb Fletcher: Militia Captain of Hommlet, a respected figure despite his advanced age, and a protector of the village’s people and traditions.
• Mother, Mara Fletcher: A kind yet formidable woman, known for her wisdom and humor, maintaining a steady presence within the Fletcher household.

Elmo Fletcher: Otis’s Younger Brother

Young Elmo has grown up since Otis’s departure, now a familiar face at the local inn where he can often be found nursing a jack of ale. A brawny and unassuming man, Elmo’s easygoing demeanor masks his keen instincts and formidable strength. The villagers say Elmo takes after his brother in spirit, though he lacks Otis’s polished skill as a ranger. With his lumbering frame and quiet, almost lackadaisical attitude, Elmo is often underestimated by strangers passing through Hommlet. However, those who know him understand he is far from simple, and rumors suggest that he shares his family’s deep loyalty to Hommlet’s safety and well-being.

• Elmo Fletcher: Otis’s younger brother, a seemingly easygoing but powerful figure in Hommlet; frequently found at the inn, he is keenly observant and dedicated to protecting his home.

The Fletchers and Hommlet’s Future

Though Otis has chosen a path that takes him away from his family more often than he’d like, he feels a deep responsibility toward them, particularly as Hommlet faces renewed threats. Elmo, in his own quiet way, looks out for their aging parents, stepping up to carry on the family’s protective legacy. Together, the Fletchers serve as both an anchor and a source of strength for Hommlet, embodying the values of loyalty and vigilance that Otis holds dear.

• Legacy of Service: The Fletcher family is revered in Hommlet, embodying generations of loyalty, protection, and community resilience.
• Protectors at Heart: Both Otis and Elmo, though different in approach, are fiercely devoted to safeguarding Hommlet and upholding the family’s honor.

While Otis watches over the larger threat of the Temple of Elemental Evil, his family remains rooted in Hommlet, quietly ensuring that the Fletcher name continues to be synonymous with dedication and defense of the village.

Services and Expertise

Otis’s smithy is well-equipped, providing services that range from basic horse shoeing to advanced armor and weapon repair. His knowledge of armaments and craftsmanship is unmatched in Nulb, making him a valuable resource for both locals and adventurers. In addition to his smithing, Otis provides stable services, caring for horses and other mounts passing through the village. Adventurers often seek him out, knowing that Otis’s skills extend beyond ordinary smithing and that his tools and trade can sometimes hint at hidden insights into the dangerous regions nearby.

• Smithing Services: Repairs armor, weapons, and other metalwork; provides horseshoeing and minor weapon crafting.
• Stable Keeping: Offers a secure stable for travelers, ensuring mounts are well-cared for.
• Unique Craftsmanship: Known to produce work of higher quality than typical village smiths, suggesting advanced skill.

Personality and Motivation

Otis is driven by a deep sense of duty and responsibility, often found supporting those in need with little expectation of reward. His calm demeanor belies a steely resolve, and he often speaks with authority on topics of survival and combat. Otis is motivated by his hidden allegiance to protect the Viscounty from dark forces, though he rarely reveals his intentions outright. He is cautious in choosing his allies, showing a quiet preference for those who demonstrate honor and courage.

• Personality: Stoic, observant, and slightly gruff, but compassionate to those in need.
• Hidden Purpose: Committed to secretly aiding the forces of good in Nulb and beyond, while maintaining his cover.
• Motivation: Driven by duty to keep watch over the growing darkness in Nulb, particularly regarding Lady Lmag and the bandit gangs.

Relationships and Local Connections

Relationship with the Waterside Tavern and Lady Lmag’s Men
Otis maintains a cautious relationship with the Waterside Tavern and its owner, Lodriss Barkinar. The tavern, being a hub for unsavory characters, provides Otis with ample opportunity to observe Nulb’s underbelly. Although he frequents the tavern to keep up appearances, Otis carefully avoids entanglements with Lady Lmag's Men, aware of their darker connections. His stance toward these associates is one of cautious tolerance, though he keeps an eye on them for any signs of alignment with the Temple’s cultists.

• 3. Waterside Hostel of Nulb: Otis is a known presence at the tavern, though he primarily goes there to gather information on the town’s criminal activities.
• Lady Lmag's men: Maintains a guarded relationship, aware of their connections to dangerous forces.
• Observation: Uses the tavern as a means of keeping tabs on suspicious characters passing through Nulb.

Public Perception and Rumors

Otis is respected in Nulb, but whispers about his past abound. Some say he’s a soldier who deserted his post, while others believe he’s hiding from a dark deed committed long ago. However, most townsfolk see him as a pillar of the community, albeit a secretive one. Travelers sometimes report seeing him venture into the Gnarley Forest at odd hours, fueling rumors about his affiliations with the Gnarley Rangers or other clandestine groups.

• Respected: Known for his skill and fairness, Otis has earned a place of quiet reverence.
• Mystery: Locals speculate on his history and occasional excursions to the forest.
• Rumors: Some believe Otis is a former knight, while others think he may be involved with The Gnarley Rangers.

DM Only Section: Secrets of Otis

Hidden Identity and Purpose

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In reality, Otis is far more than he appears. He is a high-ranking ranger knight and secret agent of the Kingdom of Furyondy, working under direct orders to monitor the growing threat posed by the Temple of Elemental Evil. Disguised as a common blacksmith, he gathers intelligence and occasionally assists adventurers who share his commitment to thwarting evil. Otis was once stationed in Hommlet but moved to Nulb when the need for his covert oversight became apparent. He maintains regular communication with allies in Furyondy and Veluna, including Murfles the gnome and the druid Y’dey.

• True Identity: Level 10 Ranger Knight, an agent of Furyondy and Veluna.
• Mission: To secretly monitor the Temple of Elemental Evil’s activities and protect the region.
• Allies: Works with Y’dey, Murfles, and his loyal followers, including giant owls and sprites, to keep a vigilant watch over Nulb and its surroundings.

Otis Fletcher: The Roving Ranger of Hommlet

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For all his vigilance, Otis Fletcher could not hold back the resurgence of dark forces in Hommlet. After the Temple of Elemental Evil’s fall, Otis had hoped his homeland would know peace. But over the years, the shadow of evil returned, creeping back into the lands he had once sworn to protect. Bandits began appearing on the roads again, striking at travelers and merchants, their attacks sporadic yet effective. This development stirred grim memories among the people of Hommlet, who feared that the foul days of temple raids and ruthless cultists might return. Word spread through the village, reaching the ears of the Viscount of Verbobonc, who in turn called upon those willing to aid in the defense of the realm.
Yet, with each new “hero” that appeared, the villagers grew wary. Though these self-proclaimed defenders claimed to be in Hommlet to slay monsters and bring peace, their true motives remained unclear. Otis observed this influx with a wary eye, his instincts honed by years of dealing with mercenaries, brigands, and worse. Many of these new faces concealed ulterior motives behind their promises of protection.

• New Bandit Threats: Bandits begin raiding the roads around Hommlet, rekindling fears of a return to darker days.
• Outsiders Arrive: Word of the renewed threat spreads, attracting adventurers and fortune-seekers to Hommlet, though their intentions remain ambiguous.
• Otis’s Skepticism: Having seen the deceitful nature of evil firsthand, Otis keeps a close watch on these outsiders, wary of their true goals.

The Rise of Lareth the Beautiful

While Otis tried to defend his village alone, a more insidious force grew in strength nearby. Lareth the Beautiful, a cunning and sadistic cleric of chaotic evil, had taken control of the moathouse outside of Hommlet. Handsome and charismatic, Lareth commanded a small band of loyal followers, including humans and bugbears, who operated out of the moathouse’s dungeon. Rumor has it that Lareth is not just another servant of the Elder Elemental God but a favored instrument, poised to restore the temple to its former glory.
Operating with a patience and precision that belied his cruelty, Lareth was careful to keep his activities hidden. His raids targeted distant villages and isolated travelers, ensuring that none survived to tell the tale. Wagons and traders would simply vanish, leaving no trace but silence and fear. Lareth’s methodical approach stood in stark contrast to the brazen overreach of the temple’s former masters, demonstrating a more dangerous form of cunning. Under his leadership, the Temple of Elemental Evil’s influence crept back into the lands surrounding Hommlet, its power rebuilding in the shadows.

• Lareth’s Command: Lareth the Beautiful takes control of the moathouse, assembling a small force of loyal human and humanoid followers.
• Deceptive Strategy: Lareth raids far from Hommlet, leaving no survivors and avoiding suspicion, slowly expanding the Temple’s influence once more.
• Favor of the Temple: Viewed with high regard by his superiors, Lareth is seen as a promising agent, potentially the key to restoring the Temple’s former power.

Otis’s Struggle and Cry for Help

As the bandit attacks increased and rumors of Lareth’s activities reached him, Otis found himself overwhelmed. Alone, he set traps and laid ambushes along the roads, hoping to disrupt the brigands and prevent them from terrorizing his people. But time and again, he arrived too late, finding only the remains of smoldering wagons and the bodies of fallen merchants. Frustrated and embittered, Otis was forced to admit he needed help to combat the rising tide of darkness.
In response to the growing threat, Canoness Y’dey, the local cleric of the Church of St. Cuthbert, called upon her trusted allies to defend the village. Rufus, a hardened fighter, and Burne, a formidable magic-user, answered her call. These two seasoned adventurers arrived with a contingent of men-at-arms, bolstering the village’s defenses. They took their positions within Hommlet, with Rufus leading the troops and Burne maintaining a vigilant watch for signs of evil.

• Otis Overwhelmed: Unable to stem the tide of bandit attacks alone, Otis struggles to protect Hommlet.
• Canoness Y’dey’s Call: Y’dey summons her allies, including Rufus and Burne, to aid in defending the village.
• Increased Defense: With Rufus commanding the men-at-arms and Burne using his magical prowess, Hommlet’s defenses are bolstered.

New Allies and Old Foes

With the arrival of Rufus and Burne, Hommlet’s defenses were stronger than ever. Rufus, a seasoned fighter with a loyal following of soldiers, took command of the village’s defenses, while Burne, a cautious and pragmatic wizard, supported him with spells and strategy. Jaroo Ashstaff, a druid of the Gnarley Forest, also lent his support, keeping a watchful eye on the woods and the Temple’s influence. These stalwart defenders gave Otis a sense of hope, though he remained vigilant, knowing that Lareth’s schemes could outwit even the most capable warriors.
Yet, unbeknownst to Otis and his allies, two shadowy figures had already infiltrated Hommlet. Rannos Davl, a sly and treacherous thief, and his partner Gremag, a ruthless assassin, lurked within the village. Both were servants of the Temple of Elemental Evil, feeding information back to their superiors and aiding any dark agents that passed through. Posing as harmless traders, they observed Otis, Rufus, and Burne, always a step ahead, reporting any significant movements back to the Temple.

• Strength in Numbers: Rufus, Burne, and Jaroo join forces with Otis, bolstering Hommlet’s defenses.
• Rannos and Gremag: Temple spies Rannos and Gremag work in secret, watching the defenders of Hommlet and reporting back to the Temple.
• Undercover Agents: Posing as traders, the two spies provide the Temple with valuable intelligence, working against Otis from within.

The Shadow Over Hommlet

Despite the efforts of Otis and his allies, the shadow of the Temple of Elemental Evil continued to loom over Hommlet. Lareth’s presence in the moathouse and the resurgence of bandit attacks weighed heavily on the village. The once-peaceful roads of Hommlet were now fraught with danger, and fear once again became part of daily life for its citizens. Traders were cautious, travelers suspicious, and villagers uncertain of whom they could trust. Though Otis, Rufus, and the others fought to protect their homes, the insidious presence of Lareth and the growing power of the Temple remained an ever-present threat.
As Otis patrolled the roads and forests around Hommlet, he could feel the weight of his responsibility pressing upon him. Evil had learned from its past mistakes, growing more cunning and patient. Lareth’s strategy was far more dangerous than the brazen tactics of old. Otis knew that this new wave of darkness could not be defeated by strength alone; it would require patience, cunning, and allies who shared his unwavering commitment to defend Hommlet from the shadows.

• The Darkened Roads: Bandits and cultists make travel to and from Hommlet perilous, fostering fear and mistrust.
• Lareth’s Influence: The Temple’s influence spreads slowly, cunningly weaving itself back into the land, biding its time.
• Otis’s Burden: Realizing that brute force alone cannot defeat this new threat, Otis shoulders the heavy responsibility of defending Hommlet against an enemy that has grown wise and careful.

Summary of Otis’s Current Vigil

Otis Fletcher stands at the heart of Hommlet’s resistance against the rekindled threat of the Temple of Elemental Evil. Supported by allies like Rufus, Burne, and Jaroo, he faces a growing darkness that has learned from its past mistakes. With Lareth the Beautiful biding his time in the moathouse and spies like Rannos Davl and Gremag lurking within the village, Otis knows that the defense of Hommlet is more fragile than ever. He remains vigilant, his commitment unwavering, prepared to face whatever new horrors the Temple may bring.

Current Situation of Otis in the Village of Nulb

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Otis Fletcher, now living incognito as a blacksmith in the Village of Nulb, maintains a delicate balance between his cover identity and his role as a vigilant agent of Good. Nulb is a hotbed of both Good and Evil factions, a place where intentions are masked, alliances shift like shadows, and every action is subject to scrutiny. The Evil factions, consisting of cultists, bandits, and spies loyal to the Temple of Elemental Evil, are vigilant and connected, making it nearly impossible for Otis and his allies to act without risking exposure. Otis is highly aware that any misstep could reveal his true identity and disrupt his mission.
Otis operates cautiously, avoiding open confrontations and limiting his interactions with unproven adventurers or unknown individuals. His every action is calculated, and he rarely offers aid unless absolutely necessary. Together with Canoness Y’dey and the halfling spy Murfles, Otis forms part of an underground resistance dedicated to monitoring the Temple's growing influence. They only reveal themselves to those they have vetted or those who prove their worth in the struggle against the Temple's forces. Otis remains resolute, biding his time and assessing each development with the keen instincts of a seasoned ranger.

• Calculated Caution: Otis avoids direct involvement in skirmishes, choosing to remain hidden in plain sight to protect his mission and identity.
• Hidden Resistance: Alongside Y’dey and Murfles, Otis is part of a covert network opposing the Temple's influence.
• Guarded Interaction: Otis is selective in his alliances, only assisting adventurers who demonstrate a commitment to combating Evil.

Otis’s Purpose and Resolve

Otis’s true objective in Nulb is clear: he is there to monitor the resurgence of Evil in the Temple of Elemental Evil and to be ready to strike if the opportunity arises. Recent intelligence indicates a disturbing increase in the Temple’s activities, with rumors of cultists, mercenaries, and monstrous allies gathering strength. The malevolent forces that plagued Hommlet and the surrounding lands years ago are stirring once more, and Otis can feel the weight of destiny pressing upon him. He knows that the battle against the Temple may reach a crescendo soon, and he must be ready.
If he encounters adventurers capable of mounting a serious assault on the Temple, Otis will join them, recognizing the necessity of combined strength. However, he will not do so lightly; he understands that his life and his mission are precious tools in the larger fight, and he will not jeopardize either for a reckless foray. Otis believes that only a well-prepared, focused strike has any hope of success against the Temple’s defenses. He values preparation and strategy, and he looks for those qualities in others before he commits his aid.

• Readiness for Battle: Otis stands ready to accompany adventurers in a decisive attack on the Temple if a genuine opportunity presents itself.
• Selective Alliance: Otis will join only those who show careful planning and sufficient strength to stand against the Temple's forces.
• Commitment to the Cause: Otis is motivated by a deep resolve to see the Temple dismantled, but he is pragmatic and cautious in his approach.

The Brewing Evil and Future Plans

Otis senses a resurgence of the evil that once cast a shadow over Hommlet and the Gnarley Forest. The Temple of Elemental Evil’s influence grows daily, and whispers of its returning power echo throughout Nulb. Otis understands that he cannot fight this battle alone, nor can he rely solely on his covert allies. With the arrival of new adventurers, he sees the possibility of turning the tide, provided they have the strength and resolve to match the Temple’s dark ambitions. Otis dreams of a unified strike, a coordinated assault that will finally silence the darkness in the Temple’s walls.
If Otis’s intelligence reveals a critical vulnerability in the Temple’s defenses, he will dispatch messages to his allies. Burne, the mage in Hommlet, stands ready to provide arcane support, supplying spells and magical insights for adventurers aligned with Otis's mission. Furthermore, should Otis uncover the full extent of the Temple’s power, he will alert Burne, who will then call upon powerful allies from Veluna and Verbobonc. This organized force would be capable of launching a large-scale assault, a final death-stroke against the malevolent temple.

• A Rising Threat: The Temple’s resurgence is undeniable, with increasing numbers of cultists and mercenaries gathering.
• Strategic Alliances: Otis can rally allies such as Burne and summon support from Veluna and Verbobonc if a full-scale assault becomes necessary.
• Hopes for a Unified Strike: Otis envisions a decisive and coordinated assault to eradicate the Temple's dark influence once and for all.

Otis, Ex-Mercenary and Blacksmith

• Appearance: Tall, muscular with a seasoned warrior's build. Has piercing blue eyes and a grizzled beard.
• Attire: Often seen in a thick leather apron over his work clothes, he embodies a rough but dependable image.
• Demeanor: Stoic, slightly mysterious, with a quiet strength that resonates through his interactions.

Items: Weapons: Dagger, Smith's Hammer (counts as a club).

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Otis level 10 Ranger Knight

Armor Class: 7 (unarmored) or 3 (in chain mail +2)
Hit Points: 100 (10d10+40)
Alignment: Neutral Good
XP Value: 5000

• Strength: 18/07
• Dexterity: 17
• Constitution: 18
• Intelligence: 15
• Wisdom: 15
• Charisma: 13

Languages: Common, Alignment, Elvish, Gnomish, Ogrish, Sprite

Special Equipment:

• Chain Mail +2: AC 3 when worn.
• Longsword +2: Magical weapon, grants +2 to attack and damage rolls.
• Cold Iron Battle Axe and Arrows: Effective against certain supernatural creatures, particularly fae.
• Pouch with 25 gems (worth 100 gp each): A hidden stash with amethysts, chrysoberyls, pearls, and tourmalines, kept under the anvil in his smithy.

Spells (Druidic): Otis can cast the following spells:

• 1st Level: Detect Magic, Speak with Animals
• 2nd Level: Affect Normal Fires

Skills:

• Tracking (Expert): Otis can track creatures in forests, plains, and hills with a +10% bonus.
• Ambush Awareness: Otis has a +2 bonus to Perception checks when identifying ambushes or hidden enemies.
• Blacksmithing and Armoring: Skilled at crafting and repairing arms and armor.

Combat Options

• Unarmored Combat: When unarmored, Otis has AC 7 due to his agility and combat training.
• Armored Combat: When he equips his hidden chain mail +2, his AC becomes 3.
• Weapon of Choice: Longsword +2 (1d8+2 slashing damage) or cold iron battle axe (1d8 slashing).
• Bow Proficiency: Skilled with the longbow, often used to hunt monsters and patrol the Gnarley Forest.

Special Equipment

• Magic-Enhanced Longsword (+2): Glows only when Otis speaks a secret rune, keeping its magic hidden until necessary.
• Cold-Wrought Iron Arrows and Weapons: Effective against certain creatures and supernatural beings.

Possessions

• Personal Pouch: Contains 1 copper, 4 silver, 7 electrum, 2 gold.
• Secret Cache (beneath the anvil): Includes a selection of adventuring gear and additional weapons, such as a longbow with 20 cold iron arrows and a cold iron battle axe.

1st level (4 slots): animal friendship, detect magic speak with animals
2nd level (3 slots): animal messenger, protection from poison
3rd level (2 slots): wind wall
Possessions: +2 longsword, +1 chain shirt

Otis's Companions

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Otis's Animal Companions: Owls (2)

• AC: 6, MV: 3"/18", HD: 4, hp: 27, 22
• #AT: 3, Dmg: 2-8 / 2-8 / 2-5
• SA: Surprise on 1-5
• SZ: M, XP: 258, 238

Otis's Faerie Companions: Sprites (4)

• AC: 6 (-4 when invisible), MV: 9"/18", HD: 1, hp: 7, 6, 5, 5
• #AT: 1 (dagger 1-4) or 2 (arrows 1-3, save vs. poison or sleep 10-60 turns)
• SA: Surprise 75%
• SD: Move silently, invisible at will
• SZ: S, XP: 87, 86, 85, 85

These creatures use surprise and stealth to protect Otis and assist in his vigilant watch over the Temple of Elemental Evil's resurgence.

Alignment

Neutral good

Current Location

18. Otises Smithy and Stable

Species

Humans of Greyhawk

Ethnicity

Oeridian Oerid

Year of Birth

534 42 Years old

Sex

male

Eyes

piercing blue eyes

Hair

greying wavy brown hair and grizzled beard

Height

6'3"

Aligned Organization

The Gnarley Rangers

Other Affiliations

• Verbobonc, Viscounty

Ruled Locations

• 18. Otises Smithy and Stable

Otises Smith and Stable by 3orcs

Otis Smithy Services

Basic Repairs

• Sharpening (swords, axes, daggers): 1 sp
• Minor Weapon Repair (small cracks, dents): 5 sp
• Armor Patch Repair (leather or metal): 8 sp
• Horse Shoe Replacement (per shoe): 2 sp

Weapons Crafting

• Dagger: 2 gp
• Short Sword: 5 gp
• Long Sword: 10 gp
• Hand Axe: 4 gp
• Battle Axe: 10 gp
• Spear: 2 gp
• Mace: 6 gp
• War Hammer: 8 gp

Armor Crafting

• Leather Armor: 5 gp
• Studded Leather Armor: 10 gp
• Chain Shirt: 15 gp
• Chain Mail (full suit): 50 gp
• Plate Mail (breastplate only): 75 gp

Custom Requests

• Engraving or Embossing (simple designs): 1-5 gp, based on detail
• Magical Item Repair (non-identified): Priced upon inspection
• Weapon Rebalancing (improves accuracy, skilled labor): 10 gp

Miscellaneous Services

• Iron Nails (per dozen): 1 sp
• Door or Gate Reinforcement: 2 gp per hour of work
• Custom Tool Crafting (hammers, tongs, farm tools): 1-3 gp depending on complexity
• Iron Candelabra or Lantern (basic): 3 gp
• Chain Links (per foot): 5 sp