An archmage and devotee of the Belosian heretic Thuzuul whose history is largely unknown. He is believed to have been half-Elysian and apprenticed in Ulmeth; the first record of his appearance is in the student ledger at Baileydowns in 1593.
Balo was tasked by the Stone Council with penetrating the more dangerous locales of Bhodlem civilization, and securing them against encroachment so that their items may later be collected and researched.
Balo was exiled from Elistrond after he was caught performing forbidden rituals. He wandered for years, amassing power and followers until he encountered Thuzuul, in whom he saw a kindred spirit and an opportunity to further his own ends. He joined forces with Thuzuul, becoming his chief advisor and the architect of many of the heresy’s dark schemes.
He was last encountered by rangers encamped outside Azedoma, where it is believed he set traps for plunderers. His whereabouts are currently unknown.
Origin
Balo hails from the ancient city of Elistrond, a place known for its scholarly pursuits and magical studies. He was once a respected member of the Arcane Council, a body of powerful mages who governed the use of magic in Elistrond.
He is exceptionally intelligent and knowledgeable about arcane matters. His intellect, however, is often clouded by his arrogance and hunger for power. His primary motivation is the pursuit of ultimate magical power and knowledge. He is willing to go to great lengths, including delving into forbidden dark magics and making pacts with dark entities, to achieve his goals. His moral compass is skewed by his ambition. He views ethical boundaries as obstacles to be overcome rather than rules to be followed.
Abilities
Balo is a master of several schools of magic, including necromancy, pyromancy, and enchantment. His abilities include summoning undead, casting powerful fire spells, and creating magical wards.
Balo has performed numerous dark rituals, sacrificing lives to amplify his magical abilities. This has given him a level of power that few can match, but at a great cost to his humanity.