Taliesin, the Radiant Bard

“Unveiling the Mystical Powers of Taliesin: Legendary Bard and Seer!”

• Alias: Taliesin
• Gender: Male
• Race: Human
• Occupation: Seer, Poet, and Bard
• Religion: Druidic and Celtic Pantheon Beliefs
• Allies: Nature spirits, fellow bards, and those who value wisdom and creativity
• Enemies: Forces that seek to disrupt the natural order and suppress knowledge
• Abode/Base of Operations: Roaming the ancient Celtic lands, often found near sacred groves or mystical lakes
• Nationality: Celtic (Welsh)
• Languages: Old Welsh, Druidic, and various other Celtic dialects
• Alignment: Neutral Good
• Affiliation(s): Druidic circles, Celtic tribes, and the mystical realms of the Otherworld
• Significant Others: Cerridwen (Symbolic Mother and Source of Inspiration), Myrddin Wyllt (Merlin, A Fellow Mystic and Seer)

Taliesin, a captivating figure of ancient Celtic lore, emerges as a bardic enigma. His life, eternally shrouded in mystic veils, unfurls as a timeless saga. As a character, Taliesin embodies the embodiment of a seer, poet, and storyteller with unparalleled talents.

Mysterious Origins: Born of an otherworldly union, Taliesin’s existence begins in the cauldron of Cerridwen, where he experiences a profound transformation that endows him with wisdom, poetic prowess, and mystical insights. This inexplicable origin shapes his enigmatic nature, infusing him with an unquenchable thirst for understanding the cosmos.

A Keeper of Secrets: Fearless in his pursuit of knowledge, Taliesin delves deep into the arcane, seeking the secrets hidden within the natural world and the realms beyond. He fears not the abyss of the unknown but is driven to unravel its mysteries, perceiving the interwoven tapestry of existence.

Champion of Poetry and Song: Taliesin’s lyrical verses and mesmerizing melodies enchant all who hear them. His songs echo through time, capturing the essence of the Celtic spirit. He strives to preserve the oral traditions and pass down the stories of his people, nurturing their cultural identity.

Protector of the Divine: He holds an innate connection to the land, its spirits, and the divine forces that govern it. Taliesin endeavors to maintain the balance between the mortal and spiritual realms, safeguarding the ancient rites and rituals of his people.

Seeking the Infinite: His journey transcends the confines of time and space. Taliesin seeks to understand the boundless cosmos and his place within it. His pursuit of enlightenment and truth fuels his every action, making him an eternal seeker on a spiritual odyssey.

A Legacy of Inspiration: Taliesin’s legacy persists in the hearts of those who hear his tales and songs. He aspires to inspire generations with his wisdom, creativity, and profound connection to the mysteries of the universe.

In essence, Taliesin, the Celtic seer and bard, stands as an eternal beacon of wisdom, inspiring all who encounter his timeless tales and enchanting verses.

Taliesin, the Radiant Bard

Medium humanoid (elf), neutral

Armor Class 15 (mage armor)

Hit Points 82 (15d8 + 15)

Speed 30 ft.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
10 (+0)	16 (+3)	12 (+1)	18 (+4)	14 (+2)	20 (+5)

Skills Arcana +7, History +7, Insight +6, Performance +9, Persuasion +9

Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 12

Languages Common, Elvish, Sylvan, Welsh (understands, but rarely speaks)

Challenge 10 (5,900 XP)

Bardic Inspiration (3/Day). Taliesin can use a bonus action to grant one creature he can see within 60 feet of him an inspiration die (1d8). The creature can wait until after it rolls the d20 before deciding to use the inspiration die, but must decide before the DM says whether the roll succeeds or fails. Once the inspiration die is rolled, it is lost.

Spellcasting. Taliesin is a 10th-level spellcaster. His spellcasting ability is Charisma (spell save DC 17, +9 to hit with spell attacks). He has the following Bard spells prepared:

• Cantrips (at-will): Mage Hand, Prestidigitation, Vicious Mockery
• 1st level (4 slots): Charm Person, Cure Wounds, Detect Magic, Mage Armor
• 2nd level (3 slots): Invisibility, Hold Person, Suggestion
• 3rd level (3 slots): Counterspell, Major Image
• 4th level (3 slots): Dimension Door
• 5th level (1 slot): Modify Memory

Actions

Staff. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 4 (1d6 + 2) bludgeoning damage.

Vicious Mockery (Recharge 5-6). He utters a string of insults laced with subtle enchantments at a creature he can see within 60 feet of him. If the target can hear him (though it need not understand him), it must succeed on a DC 16 Wisdom saving throw or take 14 (4d6) psychic damage and have disadvantage on the next attack roll it makes before the end of its next turn.

Radiant Verse (Recharge 5-6). He utters a spellbinding verse infused with radiant energy. Each creature of his choice within 60 feet of him that can hear him must make a DC 17 Wisdom saving throw or take 36 (8d8) radiant damage on a failed save, or half as much on a successful one. Creatures that fail the save are also blinded until the end of their next turn.

Song of Enchantment. As an action, Taliesin can begin a captivating performance that lasts until the end of his next turn. During this time, he and his allies within 30 feet of him have advantage on saving throws against being frightened or charmed, and hostile creatures within that radius have disadvantage on their attack rolls.

Legends Unveiled (3/Day). Taliesin can use an action to share a tale or song that unveils hidden truths. This ability functions like the “Legend Lore” spell, but it’s cast without expending a spell slot. After using this ability three times, Taliesin can’t use it again until he finishes a long rest.

Reactions

Countercharm. Taliesin can use his reaction when he or an ally within 30 feet of him is subjected to an effect that causes them to be frightened or charmed. The creature gains advantage on the saving throw against the effect.

Legendary Actions

Taliesin can take 3 legendary actions, choosing from the options below. Only one legendary action option can be used at a time, and only at the end of another creature’s turn. Taliesin regains spent legendary actions at the start of his turn.

• Inspire. Taliesin uses Bardic Inspiration.
• Spell. Taliesin casts a 1st-level bard spell.
• Song of Mysteries (Costs 2 Actions). Taliesin begins an enchanting melody. Until the end of his next turn, he and his allies within 30 feet of him have advantage on Wisdom (Insight) and Intelligence (Arcana) checks.

Equipment Taliesin carries a beautifully crafted harp and wears fine clothing adorned with intricate designs. He also possesses a tome of ancient stories and prophecies, which holds his deep knowledge of legends and myths.

Taliesin is a masterful bard whose captivating performances and profound wisdom can turn the tide of any encounter. As the guardian of ancient tales, he weaves magic through his words and melodies, leaving those who hear him forever changed by the power of his stories.

Currently in the World

Taliesin is a striking figure with long, flowing hair the color of raven feathers, cascading down to his shoulders. His piercing, wise eyes are as deep and green as the ancient forests he frequents, often shimmering with an otherworldly light when he delves into profound visions. He wears robes made of natural materials adorned with intricate Celtic patterns and symbols, signifying his connection to the earth and its mysteries.

Currently, Taliesin is seated upon a moss-covered stone near the edge of a tranquil Welsh lake, its glassy surface mirroring the azure sky above. His fingers gently strum a harp carved from the wood of a sacred oak tree, the haunting melody harmonizing with the whispers of the breeze through the surrounding trees. Birds of various species gather nearby, seemingly drawn to his presence.

His mood is one of serene contemplation, as he seeks inspiration and guidance from the natural world around him. Despite the complexities of the universe that weigh on his mind, there’s an undeniable aura of tranquility that emanates from him, reflecting his profound connection to the rhythms of nature and the mysteries of the cosmos.

In Myth

Taliesin, in Welsh mythology and folklore, is a legendary figure associated with poetry, wisdom, and the supernatural. His story is deeply ingrained in the Welsh literary and bardic traditions, making him one of the most celebrated figures in Celtic mythology. Here’s a description of Taliesin in myth:

Taliesin is often depicted as a gifted poet and bard who possessed an extraordinary ability to compose beautiful and prophetic poetry. His name, “Taliesin,” is believed to mean “Radiant Brow” or “Shining Brow,” signifying his exceptional wisdom and insight.

According to legend, Taliesin’s story begins with the transformation of a young boy named Gwion Bach. Gwion was tasked with stirring a cauldron of wisdom for the sorceress Ceridwen. However, when three drops of the cauldron’s contents splashed onto his finger, he gained immense knowledge and insight. Fearing Ceridwen’s wrath, Gwion fled, and Ceridwen pursued him.

Their chase through a series of shape-shifting transformations is a central theme in the Taliesin myth. Ultimately, Gwion transformed into a grain of wheat and was consumed by Ceridwen in the form of a hen. After giving birth to Gwion reborn as Taliesin, Ceridwen threw him into the sea in a leather bag.

Taliesin’s adventures continued as he was found and rescued by a prince named Elphin. He grew to become a renowned bard and adviser to King Arthur, his wisdom and poetic abilities praised throughout Wales. His poems and verses, known as “The Book of Taliesin,” are filled with rich symbolism, mythology, and prophecies.

Taliesin’s tales often intertwine with other legendary figures from Welsh mythology, including King Arthur, Bran the Blessed, and the Mabinogion characters. His story serves as a testament to the power of wisdom, inspiration, and the enduring importance of poetic tradition in Celtic culture.

In Welsh folklore, Taliesin’s influence extends beyond myth, as he is regarded as the archetype of the wise and talented bard, embodying the essence of Welsh poetic and cultural heritage. His legacy endures in both his mythical deeds and the poetry that bears his name.