Yes, he's definitely developed to an anti-hero if not even more to the "good" side of things. He started out as a villain, but as his official D&D alignment shift reflects (neutral evil to chaotic neutral), he's been "tempered down" quite a bit throughout the years.
One of the most heartbreaking things I've ever read was Jarlaxel's POV in Relentless. He was worried that Zaknerfain was suicidal during Drizzt's years away from house Do'Urden, and was also worried when Zaknerfain was uncharacteristically joyful the last time they met (Zak being glad that Drizzt had saved an elf child and rejected the way of their people and house). But then the next thing he hears is that Zak is going to be sacrificed in place of Drizzt to atone for Drizzt's heresy against Lolth. In the hours leading up to this he was making plans to sell all of Bregan D'aerthe to Malice Do'Urden in exchange for the lives of Drizzt and Zaknerfain. Jarlaxel, who had spent his whole life building this criminal empire to win a seat back at his families table, who was ruthless in his self interest and advancement of Bragan D'aerthe, was going to give it all up for his best friend and his best friends son. And then his Mother Yvonnal reads his mind and forbids him, as it would make House Do'Urden the most powerful house in Menzobaranzan, having him wait in the family chappal until the deed is done, as absolutely helpless as he had always been despite his personal power and entire guild, against the cruelty of the Drow.
I always honestly felt that Jarlaxle seemed to enjoy helping Drizzt so much just because he wanted to see how much chaos Drizzt could create within the city. The ultimate trick played on Menzoberranzan
One of Jarlaxle's lines to Drizzt will always echo to me the core of his character. "You were the one who escaped!" (One of the R.A. Salvatore novels) which was spoken with envy, I interpreted. Because for as much as Jarlaxle cherishes his freedom, he still remains tied to the world of the Drow.
Indeed, it's difficult to cover a character such as Jarlaxle, Who has had such an abundantly lasting, long, & fascinating history in the Forgotten Realms lore. The mutual fan in me feels you left something important out right at the start though: - Jarlaxle is a houseless Rouge, We as the fans know his mother is Yvonnel Baenre, But that's a huge secret. - It's Lolths decree all 3rd born sons be sacrificed. Drow Matron mothers seem to often be looking for excuses to avoid this, (Matron Mother Malice Do'Urden sparing Drizzt,) But it's the law in Menzoberranzan. - On the Day Jarlaxle was born, His mother Yvonnel (Evil'nel) ritually stabbed him over, & over again. Jarlaxle's older brother, The 2nd son. Was told to help the fatigued Yvonnel who had just given birth, n her failed efforts to pierce baby Jarlaxle with a dagger. Unbeknownst was that all of the damage from the stabbing had been absorbed by a Psionic (mind magic) Engery Barrier used by Matron Mother K'yorl Oblodra. And when Daquaio came at baby Jarlaxle The stored up Damage potential was reflected on him, Killing Jarlaxle's Second Brother on the spot. - So Jarlaxle was spared, But his survival was kept secret. It was suggested by Yvonnel to the few who knew the secret of his survival, that Lolth favored, & spared Jarlaxle. But Yvonnel was never so foolish as to know if Lolth every truely cared about anything, Even her own Decrees, Meaning the law could have been used by an enemy of House Baenre to subvert Yvonnel's political power. So Yvonnel kept his survival secret, Jarlaxle was never officially a member of House Baenre, Only a handful of people have ever known that secret. & Yvonnel (Matron Mother of Matron Mothers,) used it to her advantage, & Jarlaxle was key in many of her webs of intrigue (plots.) She favored and supported Jarlaxle, & in turn he was her spy, & thus he was allowed to develop his mercenary group Bregan D'arthe. & even allowed to play with his friends like Zaknafein Do'Urden, If Matron Malice Had her way, Jarlaxle, & Zaknafein would have never been allowed to adventure together. - Yeesh, I'm getting all Candle Keep Forum rant, Long story short. For most of Jarlaxle's life, His ties with House Baenre have been secret. Even Jarlaxle himself didn't seem to know for a time, or perhaps he put it out of his mind to such an extent, for to do otherwise would have incurred the wrath of Matron Mother Yvonnel the Eternal.. Matron Mother Yvonnel used him, & favored him as much as any Drow Female would ever deem to favor a pathetic male that was of great use to her. It's what makes his relationship with Gromph in the current novels so funny at times. They know they are brothers, But when others find out, It's like. OMG. What! Gromph & Jarlaxle are brothers! O_O
Alittle funny fact. Jarlaxle always had different hair from others, however growing up in Menzoberrenzon he got into a lot of situations where his hair would catch on fire haha. Once due to Drizzt father. So now he keeps it shaved, though I'm pretty sure he cant grow it back anymore even if he tried. Source: Timelesss by R.A Salvatore
@@selenium3447It wasn’t intentional, but Jarlaxle and most commonly people from House Barrison Del’Armgo use a… like bat guano mixture to allow their hair to be spiky. One downside it is highly flammable. Jarlaxle found that out the wrong way lol
I read most of the 'middle portion' (in terms of publishing dates) of the Drizzt novels: The Dark Elf and The Legacy Series. As FYI, Jarlaxle switches his "Eye Patch" to his other eye every few days or so.
He also switches it based on certain situations. Whether it be just for signaling to his troops different things. Also he has multiple eye patches. Some are real some aren’t. But most of them look identical that way people are never sure which he is wearing.
I ran Dragon Heist and used him as an NPC, but I never read any of the novels, so I just spent about 5 minutes on the wiki. Apparently that was enough for someone who *has* read the novels to go all "yup, you got it about right" and also my PCs all want to kill him because he came off as a smug chaotic asshole. Seriously, he hasn't even done anything to them; they just hate him.
Bro that’s how my elf character sees him and that’s how I RP my PC, though in the campaign that I’m in he did try to kill my character so the anger and hatred is kinda a given
Currently running WDDH with a group and they befriended Zardoz Zord early on. They just got betrayed by Jarlaxle after getting the gold (I ran an alternate bank vault version of the vault of dragons), so they are fuming. I'm going to have him escape Waterdeep with the gold, and Lord Silverhand is going to hire them to go after him. 10/10 would run this smug, charming, conniving bastard again.
The bracers produce an infinite supply of bladed weapons not just throwing daggers. He always appears unarmed but can produce enchanted daggers, short or long swords and even a stream of blades from either or both simultaneously.
Also not a big magic item but in novels on Drizzt Duorden, when Jarlaxle first appears, it is noted that his jewelry is very noisy seemingly only when he wants to be seen. When he bows or moves, quite noisy. It was either duorden matron or one of the eldest heirs that noted this. And his attitude was always extravagant. He was clearly connected since house Baenre s matron once actually sat as almost peers with him and discussed in informal manner what will happen to another house. He was a visible character, odd one and always made his presence known with a flowery cape, dramatic bows, overly formal to the point of sarcasm and loud entrances.
There have been many fighting duos in fantasy, but you'd be hard pressed to find a better pair than Jarlaxle and Entreri when they team up. They complement each other very well and know each other's strengths and weaknesses. They flow very well together
Maybe my favorite character arc of all time. Anyone else remember how intimidating he was when first introduced? Was he evil? Is he not? Is he trustworthy? Is he lying? Now he's an integral part of the alliances that surround the Companions of the Hall.
Would love too see a video on entreri or possibly cadderly? I know he doesnt fall into the villian category but has done some amazing things in the lore. Also one the subject of drizzt jarlaxle did oppose his former house helping with drizzts escape using entreri too do so. For a real look at how this incredible drow enjoys spending his day too day life i strongly reccomend the sellswords book by R A Salvatore it gives his character and artemis alot more depth then anywhere else and is a fantastic read
Yes! This is exactly want I want to know about. I've recently finished the Drizzt novels. Sojourn. I was hyped to find him on the cover of the new book.
The Drizzt series is amazing, if you want more of this beautiful bald Drow, I cannot recommend The Sellswords highly enough it includes Servent Of The Shard (3rd book in the Paths Of Darkness series) Promise Of The Witch King, and Road Of The Patriarch. Great series with Jarlaxle and a human rogue name Artemis you might know of mortal enemie of Drizzt!
Something to get around meta knowledge, is he has a criminal network, full of spies and divination magic, it would be easy for him to have someone invisible reading surface thoughts, and sent back to him via message spell or magic letter.
Just give players the opportunity every once in awhile to spy the source. Like seeing a scrying orb during a totally unrelated use of true sight, then they're all like "OMG! We're being spied on" and ramp the paranoia up to 1,000
So freaking excited. To see that you've gotten to the significant FR characters. I can't wait for the Artemis Enteri video. I'm re-reading Servant of the Shard right now. Jarlaxle and Kimmuriel and Rai-guy as well as the entirety of Bregan D'aerth are a force to be reckoned with.
This was really fun! I loved the part about his magical items, that really fleshes out the character. I think this will help inform my part when I play Jarlaxle in dragon heist.
I'm glad you made this, I been looking more into him recently from seeing him in Out of the Abyss/Dragon Heist. Another interesting fact about him, his brother is a drow mage who caused the events of Out of The Abyss to happen. Jarlaxle is close to his brother and hide him because of it.
Really love these villain/character videos, I’m still new to D&D and in turn the Forgotten Realms, but these videos are pretty helpful and give a little inspiration
ugh, i've recently been introduced to this character, afraid to watch for spoilers. Just finished reading the Siege of Darkness where Matron Baerne attacks Mithral Hall I'll give you a like anyways.
I am reading the "Legend of drizzt 25th anniversary edition" collection, reading book 3 which contains "The Legacy, Starless Night, Siege of Darkness, and Passage to Dawn", I just finished Siege of Darkness. Taking a break to read Elminster in Myth Drannor.
Some stuff you missed: - Jarlaxle is the uncle of Drizzt and also a 3rd born that should have been sacrificed. - Matron Mother Baenre is his MOTHER, that is the only reason she tolerates his actions - He shaves his head bald because he has a MASSIVE bald spot on the top of his head, caused by a wizard who tried to assassinate him by dropping a fireball directly on said head. The hair grows back in patchy, so he shaves it.
I’ve read every book in the Drizzt series(started in the 90s) buy every new book when it come out. Jarlaxles change over the years is great to read. His and Entreri have a great relationship with each other and how Drizzt affects them both is awesome!
I realize why i like jarlaxle, he reminds me of sauske uchiha. He's a solo power that is chaotic but not necessarily evil, tricky and dark, has eye powers and cool bracers and other tricks.
My son’s is name Jarlaxle Baenre. That lets you know the love I have for this character. You did a fine job of briefly describing his character. You really should read all the books about him. He is a legendary character. I am a novel reader and don’t care much for the game. As I would only want to play a evil Drow campaign in the Underdark which I know is frowned upon.
@@BandsMaysTVCEO You wanted a unique name so you copied one from a famous D&D villian?.. Whatever you need to tell yourself i guess, i feel sorry for your kid though...
Jarlaxle is perhaps my favorite fantasy character of all time. Probably because he reminds me of myself so much...an opportunistic manipulator and business man, yet also capable of friendship (to an extent) and able to understand people's true motives. Although he still seems to have some morals (which is where we differ, as I'm a complete moral nihilist).
I'm running Waterdeep dragon heist and i play him like a mixture between: Captain jack sparrow, The mask of Zorro, and Adam West batman. He solves problems like Batman, while doing jobs like Jack sparrow, and acting like Zorro.
Jarlaxle and Drizzt had a decent relationship atleast one of understanding especially after Drizzt figured out Jarlaxle and Zaknafein knew each other and were friends
Im just going to say it, Jarlaxle is simply put the best character in all of the Forgotten Realms and no one will ever convince me otherwise. He is the very quintessence of that universe hands down, end of story, PERIYAT!
I used him in a game but mixed his personality with that of Raymond Reddington from the Blacklist. They are both antiheroes, and it definitely threw my players for a loop.
Hell yes!! Renegade Drow are the best Drow!! (Are you planning on doing a video of Artemis entreri, one of the only humans to earn the begrudging respect of Drow warriors and his amazing weaponry?)
I'd never read anything about Jarlaxle going into my DMing of Storm Kings Thunder and had to shoot from the hip a couple of times so oops now his name is Jarlaxle Applebee and he owns a popular chain of taverns. I'm sure you can guess the name.
Hes a pragmatic drow this lead him from starting out neutral evil, but later become more chaotic neutral. In reality he has become more powerful than any drow female in mezzobanazan or otherwise. Overall hes a bit of rogue even a scoudral with a code of honor. An occasional good man. But most of all he is a damn good business man.
so...just found this channel. I have been struggling with all the disaggregated information out there on FR and how to improve my own campaign without getting too cross of canon, and you do a really nice job of putting all this stuff together. I am not a Jarlaxle or Drizzt fan necessarily, but I am a FR fan. I think there is a lot made of the whole Drizzt line of novels and stories and characters and there are so many other interesting characters that have not been fleshed out by WotC (I guess its all driven by fan popularity). What i do want to say to you is this: it looks like you have put together a great and much needed series on FR, and I really appreciate it. I will be spending much time on your channel catching up.
Jarlaxle's wild clothes phase was tied with his earlier life when he was content to conduct business mostly in the Underdark. But once he decided to focus on surface operations ("The Sellswords"), his clothing became more conservative. Well, except for the damn pimp hat! Having nearly been sacrificed by the priestesshood of Menzo, Jar started out by plotting how to undermine the authority of priestesses as a houseless rogue, while insulating himself from personal blame, and always coming out ahead. This was manifested in a flashy, foppish personal sense of fashion, and a reputation as a rake and manipulator, who could nevertheless get dirty deeds done, for not so cheap. Over time, Jar decided to get organized by recruiting likeminded drow with grudges against the authorities of Menzo. His band, Bregan d'Aerthe, has magnified his successes and his desirability for those wanting work done without getting their hands dirty. Jarlaxle is interesting because, while he wished for centuries to stick it to the priestesses of Menzo, this did not in any way make him a morally good person. He hated the clergy and their religion, but he loved no one beside himself. Jar was a sociopathic user, abuser, and backstabber of the highest order. But he got away with it, because he paid well. And then there was Drizzt. Drizzt Do'Urden showed that someone could not only have a different morality than mainstream dark elves, but he could also thrive on the surface. He could obtain friends, and fame, and not die at the hands of Lolth or her agents. This began to inspire common drow, eliciting jokes and drinking tales, as much to undermine priestess rule as to praise the dark elf rebel. Jarlaxle was fascinated by this. And as always, he craved a way to take advantage of it to his profit. Then along came Entreri. The human fighter/assassin was pulled into the drow sphere because of a past negative run-in with Drizzt, but the assassin did not simply roll over and play the obedient slave. Entreri showed that Drizzt wasn't the only one who could happily give Lolth the middle finger. Jarlaxle was ecstatic to observe this fellow in action, and resolved to make studying him a personal project. In their adventures together, Jar took turns encouraging Entreri to enjoy surface adventures with a grandiose flare, and betraying the human whenever that was easier than standing by him. Theirs was not a happy life together, but each still learned much from one another. Meanwhile, Drizzt's symbolism as a defiant smalltime hero continued to spread amongst the drow populace, as Lolth and her priestesses pursued chaos and unpredictability to the point that a growing portion of the dark elf society in Menzo found it harder to tolerate the faith and its precepts. So Jarlaxle switched gears and began directly helping Drizzt and his friends. He assures Drizzt that he believes in the goodly drow, and with a little work, so could the majority of the people of Menzo. Jar's backstabbing ways have diminished, as goodly habits seem to rub off on him. He still gets his best work done in the dark, but he is maneuvering to help far more than just himself, these days.
Rai-guy Bondalek & Kimmuriel Oblodra are both awesom drow villains to cover. Erevis Cale is another memorable character and one of my favorites or any of the Red Wizards.
Currently playing Waterdeep. My character (High half-elf monk) and his Goliath Paladin were stripped of arms and armor after passing out drunk in a tavern. Woke up in a cage and bad guys show up. We note that kids were also in the cages with us and the bad guys go to take them away. So like idiots, we decide to be direct and do something about it: goliath yeets my character out of the 2.5 foot hole in the top of the cage, roll initiative. Quickly becomes clear I'm fighting way the hell out of my weight class so the DM throws me a bone and bring in Jarlaxle to bail my ass out while the Goliath tries to break out of the cage. Wind up winning the encounter but now my character is wary as hell because he knows Jarlaxle by reputation and the DM has been throwing Underdark creatures at us to include a Drider... and a cursed sword that apparently came from Lolth is in the mix as well.
I’m just saying this before the video starts I know very little on Jarlaxle but I do enjoy him as a character from the forgotten realms, I’d really like to spend more time reading the books because I’ve never played dnd which would be fun. 💕💕
This is a solid primer for Jarlaxle. A more nuanced look at this character's beginnings is needed, however. Jarlaxle wasn't privileged because of his station as a noble and indeed he was meant to be sacrificed to Lolth as soon as he was born because he was the third-born male (it's a Drow thing). Due to a deception played on Matron Baenre by a now deposed Mother Matron, Jarlaxle was spared sacrifice through the use of psionics... which also led to the death of the second-born male Baenre. This not only negated the reason for the sacrifice, Jarlaxle now being the "second- born" son, but it also led Matron Baenre to believe Jarlaxle was protected by Lolth and/or, at the least, that killing him would anger the Queen of Spiders. Such was the reason House Baenre never went after Jarlaxle when he founded Bregan D'aerthe... that, and Jarlaxle's "everybody profits" attitude made his mercenary band's existence very profitable for Menzoberanzan and especially House Baenre.
Katrina No'Quarr , House of Gwathlo Ve Dagnir, wielding the Arm of Valor , and the Dragon spear,...I hit with The One Power "Balefire". We agreed to not use it, my le titan(helm of alignment changing) had an aura of Diamond dragon effect" but was still bested by the drow queen Zesstra No' Quarr
Jarlaxle isn't really evil, nor is he good. And he's certainly not neutral. There should be a spot on the alignment chart just labelled "Jarlaxle" for the chill-ass mofo characters who give no fucks. Except Jarlaxle fucks. That's canon, baby.
Have you done a video on the drow/shadow dragon assassins guild Jaezred Chaulssin from the city of Wyrmshadows in the underdark? its a very cool topic and I would love for more to know about them and to know more about them. They are basically the flip side of most Drow societies a patriarchy lead by Patron Fathers instead of Matron Mothers...do they still exist in 5e? Id love to see a video featuring them
Jarlaxle had the foresite to give over his company before he started messing around with the shard. He is one of a few who couldn't be corrupted by the shard. I think the sword "cutter" would be a good with him. But of all the people jarlaxle is the most powerful in the series he's just bored. A friend of zaknifien, of drizzit, so much magic about him, controlling the shard, his band, ties to the underdark, ability to teleport anywhere anytime.
No offense, Jemma, but you might have played him wrong; Jarlaxle goes nowhere unless he's certain he has a diplomatic, fighting, and escaping strategy, or some crazy combination of all three. Not to mention the entirety of his mercenary group's finest warriors are within an arm's reach of him, ready to strike at a moment's notice if someone twitches wrong. In addition to his impressive arsenal of magical items, it should be impossible to kill this man short of a wish spell or two. And even then, there would be some serious ramifications for doing so.
He also was son of a drow maitron of the most powerful house in the city and did spying and assinations also fought in house war depending on what his mother or sister chose 😊 good evening 👍🌆.
False he was third born just like drizzt but lolth has plans for jarlaxle so laid a blessing on him keeping yvonnel from slaying him on the alter like all third born sons are sacrificed. Gromph is actually the eldest son of house baenre
@@joshuamiles5293 You're right. I had it in my head for some reason that all first born sons are to be sacrificed, but then remembered Drittz had two older brothers and of course Gromph was explicitly stated to the eldest. I edited my comment.
@@joshuamiles5293 Still somewhat false. Lolth was not the one who saved Jarlaxle, it was Kiorol Oblodra(sry if I spelt that wrong) Matron mother of the once third house of Menzoberrenzon before the time of troubles. She uses her psyonic powers to protect the Jarlaxle making it look as if Lolth saved him.
@@Jorphdan (knocks on door) "Hello! Can I interest you in some cursory, non-mind altering, knowledge on our Lord and savior Pthu'Raigabdr? We of his will would like to invite you to be a part of our holy self. To be one with sjjepwnrhduwbeg (twitch) is to be one with *all*..."
Anyone here know where the best place to find out of print FR novels? I only need a few of them now to complete my library. I've got over 280 of them this far but am missing some of the more obscure novels. I know some of them never made it to print such as the Sword of the Gods book 2 but I'm trying to have a physical copy of all books that have them. Superfan of Forgotten Realms. Got started reading Homeland when I was 12 and had read all currently released drizzt novels by 15 as well as the War of the Spider Queen novels and the Sellswords.
I've always found Dimple Record's a good place for Forgotten Realms books I even found some Eberron books there. But I mostly just call any used book store I can find.
Jarlaxle is not a villain, he is a solid anti-hero.
I can see this 😀
Yes, he's definitely developed to an anti-hero if not even more to the "good" side of things. He started out as a villain, but as his official D&D alignment shift reflects (neutral evil to chaotic neutral), he's been "tempered down" quite a bit throughout the years.
is he a main character in some of the forgotten realms novels? I haven't read any.
The Dungineer He doesn’t start as one, but ends up a huge player in the Drizzt series.
@@TheDungineer there is a side story in the "Legend of Drizzt" series called "The Sellswords" trilogy. He is the main character of those books.
Jarlaxle and Drizzt are the reason why the drow kill their thirdborn sons
Makes a decent case for it.
they did it way before that my friend.
@@RingotheHamster People like them is what I think John meant.
@@spikegilfer1997 Sorry I was Mistaken :P
@@RingotheHamster No worries, it happens to all of us.
One of the most heartbreaking things I've ever read was Jarlaxel's POV in Relentless. He was worried that Zaknerfain was suicidal during Drizzt's years away from house Do'Urden, and was also worried when Zaknerfain was uncharacteristically joyful the last time they met (Zak being glad that Drizzt had saved an elf child and rejected the way of their people and house). But then the next thing he hears is that Zak is going to be sacrificed in place of Drizzt to atone for Drizzt's heresy against Lolth.
In the hours leading up to this he was making plans to sell all of Bregan D'aerthe to Malice Do'Urden in exchange for the lives of Drizzt and Zaknerfain. Jarlaxel, who had spent his whole life building this criminal empire to win a seat back at his families table, who was ruthless in his self interest and advancement of Bragan D'aerthe, was going to give it all up for his best friend and his best friends son.
And then his Mother Yvonnal reads his mind and forbids him, as it would make House Do'Urden the most powerful house in Menzobaranzan, having him wait in the family chappal until the deed is done, as absolutely helpless as he had always been despite his personal power and entire guild, against the cruelty of the Drow.
I always honestly felt that Jarlaxle seemed to enjoy helping Drizzt so much just because he wanted to see how much chaos Drizzt could create within the city. The ultimate trick played on Menzoberranzan
I just love Jarlaxle. Such a fun character.
What's your favorite story that he's in?
One of Jarlaxle's lines to Drizzt will always echo to me the core of his character. "You were the one who escaped!" (One of the R.A. Salvatore novels) which was spoken with envy, I interpreted. Because for as much as Jarlaxle cherishes his freedom, he still remains tied to the world of the Drow.
Indeed, it's difficult to cover a character such as Jarlaxle, Who has had such an abundantly lasting, long, & fascinating history in the Forgotten Realms lore.
The mutual fan in me feels you left something important out right at the start though:
- Jarlaxle is a houseless Rouge, We as the fans know his mother is Yvonnel Baenre, But that's a huge secret.
- It's Lolths decree all 3rd born sons be sacrificed. Drow Matron mothers seem to often be looking for excuses to avoid this, (Matron Mother Malice Do'Urden sparing Drizzt,) But it's the law in Menzoberranzan.
- On the Day Jarlaxle was born, His mother Yvonnel (Evil'nel) ritually stabbed him over, & over again. Jarlaxle's older brother, The 2nd son. Was told to help the fatigued Yvonnel who had just given birth, n her failed efforts to pierce baby Jarlaxle with a dagger. Unbeknownst was that all of the damage from the stabbing had been absorbed by a Psionic (mind magic) Engery Barrier used by Matron Mother K'yorl Oblodra. And when Daquaio came at baby Jarlaxle The stored up Damage potential was reflected on him, Killing Jarlaxle's Second Brother on the spot.
- So Jarlaxle was spared, But his survival was kept secret. It was suggested by Yvonnel to the few who knew the secret of his survival, that Lolth favored, & spared Jarlaxle. But Yvonnel was never so foolish as to know if Lolth every truely cared about anything, Even her own Decrees, Meaning the law could have been used by an enemy of House Baenre to subvert Yvonnel's political power. So Yvonnel kept his survival secret, Jarlaxle was never officially a member of House Baenre, Only a handful of people have ever known that secret. & Yvonnel (Matron Mother of Matron Mothers,) used it to her advantage, & Jarlaxle was key in many of her webs of intrigue (plots.) She favored and supported Jarlaxle, & in turn he was her spy, & thus he was allowed to develop his mercenary group Bregan D'arthe. & even allowed to play with his friends like Zaknafein Do'Urden, If Matron Malice Had her way, Jarlaxle, & Zaknafein would have never been allowed to adventure together.
- Yeesh, I'm getting all Candle Keep Forum rant, Long story short. For most of Jarlaxle's life, His ties with House Baenre have been secret. Even Jarlaxle himself didn't seem to know for a time, or perhaps he put it out of his mind to such an extent, for to do otherwise would have incurred the wrath of Matron Mother Yvonnel the Eternal.. Matron Mother Yvonnel used him, & favored him as much as any Drow Female would ever deem to favor a pathetic male that was of great use to her. It's what makes his relationship with Gromph in the current novels so funny at times. They know they are brothers, But when others find out, It's like. OMG. What! Gromph & Jarlaxle are brothers! O_O
Alittle funny fact. Jarlaxle always had different hair from others, however growing up in Menzoberrenzon he got into a lot of situations where his hair would catch on fire haha. Once due to Drizzt father. So now he keeps it shaved, though I'm pretty sure he cant grow it back anymore even if he tried. Source: Timelesss by R.A Salvatore
His head is burned. The hair won't grow back. He uses an illusion to mask the scars
Wait, why exactly did Zak set his hair on fire??
@@selenium3447It wasn’t intentional, but Jarlaxle and most commonly people from House Barrison Del’Armgo use a… like bat guano mixture to allow their hair to be spiky. One downside it is highly flammable. Jarlaxle found that out the wrong way lol
He's been portrayed masterfully by Chris Perkins in Dice, Camera, Action!.
Nice! I'm gonna have to check that out, I've been looking for someone to model the character off of.
Could you direct me to which episode i can find this?
@@caster- did you ever find it?
Episode 137 about halfway through
I read most of the 'middle portion' (in terms of publishing dates) of the Drizzt novels: The Dark Elf and The Legacy Series.
As FYI, Jarlaxle switches his "Eye Patch" to his other eye every few days or so.
Like Stan Pines.
He also switches it based on certain situations. Whether it be just for signaling to his troops different things. Also he has multiple eye patches. Some are real some aren’t. But most of them look identical that way people are never sure which he is wearing.
I ran Dragon Heist and used him as an NPC, but I never read any of the novels, so I just spent about 5 minutes on the wiki. Apparently that was enough for someone who *has* read the novels to go all "yup, you got it about right" and also my PCs all want to kill him because he came off as a smug chaotic asshole. Seriously, he hasn't even done anything to them; they just hate him.
Bro that’s how my elf character sees him and that’s how I RP my PC, though in the campaign that I’m in he did try to kill my character so the anger and hatred is kinda a given
Currently running WDDH with a group and they befriended Zardoz Zord early on. They just got betrayed by Jarlaxle after getting the gold (I ran an alternate bank vault version of the vault of dragons), so they are fuming. I'm going to have him escape Waterdeep with the gold, and Lord Silverhand is going to hire them to go after him.
10/10 would run this smug, charming, conniving bastard again.
As a huge Jarlaxel fan, I think you did a fine job sir.
The bracers produce an infinite supply of bladed weapons not just throwing daggers. He always appears unarmed but can produce enchanted daggers, short or long swords and even a stream of blades from either or both simultaneously.
Also not a big magic item but in novels on Drizzt Duorden, when Jarlaxle first appears, it is noted that his jewelry is very noisy seemingly only when he wants to be seen. When he bows or moves, quite noisy. It was either duorden matron or one of the eldest heirs that noted this. And his attitude was always extravagant. He was clearly connected since house Baenre s matron once actually sat as almost peers with him and discussed in informal manner what will happen to another house. He was a visible character, odd one and always made his presence known with a flowery cape, dramatic bows, overly formal to the point of sarcasm and loud entrances.
Jarlaxle keep his scalp shaving in a pouch and uses them to weave himself a mighty beard for disguises!
There have been many fighting duos in fantasy, but you'd be hard pressed to find a better pair than Jarlaxle and Entreri when they team up. They complement each other very well and know each other's strengths and weaknesses. They flow very well together
I remember him. That flamboyant bastard. Still, I have yet to finish the legend of Drizzt series but, That guy there, very interesting.😏
Edit
Maybe my favorite character arc of all time. Anyone else remember how intimidating he was when first introduced? Was he evil? Is he not? Is he trustworthy? Is he lying? Now he's an integral part of the alliances that surround the Companions of the Hall.
Would love too see a video on entreri or possibly cadderly? I know he doesnt fall into the villian category but has done some amazing things in the lore. Also one the subject of drizzt jarlaxle did oppose his former house helping with drizzts escape using entreri too do so. For a real look at how this incredible drow enjoys spending his day too day life i strongly reccomend the sellswords book by R A Salvatore it gives his character and artemis alot more depth then anywhere else and is a fantastic read
Bravo Jorphdan the pH is silent,give them what they want they'll keep coming back!👍👍
Yes! This is exactly want I want to know about. I've recently finished the Drizzt novels. Sojourn. I was hyped to find him on the cover of the new book.
The Drizzt series is amazing, if you want more of this beautiful bald Drow, I cannot recommend The Sellswords highly enough it includes Servent Of The Shard (3rd book in the Paths Of Darkness series) Promise Of The Witch King, and Road Of The Patriarch. Great series with Jarlaxle and a human rogue name Artemis you might know of mortal enemie of Drizzt!
Something to get around meta knowledge, is he has a criminal network, full of spies and divination magic, it would be easy for him to have someone invisible reading surface thoughts, and sent back to him via message spell or magic letter.
Just give players the opportunity every once in awhile to spy the source. Like seeing a scrying orb during a totally unrelated use of true sight, then they're all like "OMG! We're being spied on" and ramp the paranoia up to 1,000
So freaking excited. To see that you've gotten to the significant FR characters. I can't wait for the Artemis Enteri video. I'm re-reading Servant of the Shard right now. Jarlaxle and Kimmuriel and Rai-guy as well as the entirety of Bregan D'aerth are a force to be reckoned with.
This was really fun! I loved the part about his magical items, that really fleshes out the character. I think this will help inform my part when I play Jarlaxle in dragon heist.
Hooray! 😁
Am running Tyranny of Dragons and my players just arrived in Luskan last session, I’m considering having him make an appearance.
J is a hero in more ways than one. He’s also a product of his environment. His crew, not so heroic...
I'm glad you made this, I been looking more into him recently from seeing him in Out of the Abyss/Dragon Heist.
Another interesting fact about him, his brother is a drow mage who caused the events of Out of The Abyss to happen. Jarlaxle is close to his brother and hide him because of it.
Really love these villain/character videos, I’m still new to D&D and in turn the Forgotten Realms, but these videos are pretty helpful and give a little inspiration
Love the channel. Hes not a villain.
What a cool character I was so scared that he was going to be truly diabolical, and he was just pretending but he’s a OK guy
ugh, i've recently been introduced to this character, afraid to watch for spoilers. Just finished reading the Siege of Darkness where Matron Baerne attacks Mithral Hall
I'll give you a like anyways.
that's a good book you should also read the sell swords trilogy
You're going to have a great time.
I am reading the "Legend of drizzt 25th anniversary edition" collection, reading book 3 which contains "The Legacy, Starless Night, Siege of Darkness, and Passage to Dawn", I just finished Siege of Darkness. Taking a break to read Elminster in Myth Drannor.
Some stuff you missed:
- Jarlaxle is the uncle of Drizzt and also a 3rd born that should have been sacrificed.
- Matron Mother Baenre is his MOTHER, that is the only reason she tolerates his actions
- He shaves his head bald because he has a MASSIVE bald spot on the top of his head, caused by a wizard who tried to assassinate him by dropping a fireball directly on said head. The hair grows back in patchy, so he shaves it.
Yeah but can he beat my +1 Longsword?
:D
Yes
Considering he has 25 AC in 5e, I'd say yes.
I’ve read every book in the Drizzt series(started in the 90s) buy every new book when it come out. Jarlaxles change over the years is great to read. His and Entreri have a great relationship with each other and how Drizzt affects them both is awesome!
I realize why i like jarlaxle, he reminds me of sauske uchiha. He's a solo power that is chaotic but not necessarily evil, tricky and dark, has eye powers and cool bracers and other tricks.
The best way to gain jarlaxles loyalty is yo be powerful enough yo have him view uou as an asset.
His infinite daggers can extend into longswords at will
I just finished legend of drizzt book 26 and I've grown quite fond of Jarlaxle.
Let's get a video on Jalynfein The Spider Mage!
My son’s is name Jarlaxle Baenre. That lets you know the love I have for this character. You did a fine job of briefly describing his character. You really should read all the books about him. He is a legendary character. I am a novel reader and don’t care much for the game. As I would only want to play a evil Drow campaign in the Underdark which I know is frowned upon.
I'm sorry, but your son is probably going to be made fun of because you decided to name him after a D&D character
Dude, why would you do that? Something wrong with you..
Renn Zen Nothings wrong with me. I wanted a unique name. You are a troll
@@BandsMaysTVCEO You wanted a unique name so you copied one from a famous D&D villian?.. Whatever you need to tell yourself i guess, i feel sorry for your kid though...
You are a asshole plain and simple.
Jarlaxle is perhaps my favorite fantasy character of all time. Probably because he reminds me of myself so much...an opportunistic manipulator and business man, yet also capable of friendship (to an extent) and able to understand people's true motives. Although he still seems to have some morals (which is where we differ, as I'm a complete moral nihilist).
MY GOD JARLAXLE WHY CAN’T I EXPRESS MY EXCITEMENT!!!
P.S. Thanks for doing my request!
I'm running Waterdeep dragon heist and i play him like a mixture between: Captain jack sparrow, The mask of Zorro, and Adam West batman. He solves problems like Batman, while doing jobs like Jack sparrow, and acting like Zorro.
Jarlaxle and Drizzt had a decent relationship atleast one of understanding especially after Drizzt figured out Jarlaxle and Zaknafein knew each other and were friends
I've been reading Salvatore's books since they were first published - you did a great job of introducing Jarlaxle to new people -
Thanks sir!
I would love a part 2. More depth this guy is just so cool.
Im just going to say it, Jarlaxle is simply put the best character in all of the Forgotten Realms and no one will ever convince me otherwise. He is the very quintessence of that universe hands down, end of story, PERIYAT!
As some one who's read most if not every forgotten relems/swordcoast books , this video is a good summary of jarlaxle
I used him in a game but mixed his personality with that of Raymond Reddington from the Blacklist. They are both antiheroes, and it definitely threw my players for a loop.
Hell yes!! Renegade Drow are the best Drow!! (Are you planning on doing a video of Artemis entreri, one of the only humans to earn the begrudging respect of Drow warriors and his amazing weaponry?)
Maybe! I don't have next weeks video planned, gotta go back to my list! #SoBusy
@@Jorphdan don't over work yourself brother! Take your time, we will be here!
Jorphdan I second this request though. Artemis is a very interesting character, and you’d probably enjoy the research on him
I'd never read anything about Jarlaxle going into my DMing of Storm Kings Thunder and had to shoot from the hip a couple of times so oops now his name is Jarlaxle Applebee and he owns a popular chain of taverns. I'm sure you can guess the name.
fantastic :)
Hes a pragmatic drow this lead him from starting out neutral evil, but later become more chaotic neutral. In reality he has become more powerful than any drow female in mezzobanazan or otherwise.
Overall hes a bit of rogue even a scoudral with a code of honor. An occasional good man. But most of all he is a damn good business man.
He shaved his head because it got burned off a few times and he said fuck it.. The top of his head is scarred and he puts makeup on it to cover it up.
He also started shaving his head since an attempt to blow him up fails and half his hair is singed off
so...just found this channel. I have been struggling with all the disaggregated information out there on FR and how to improve my own campaign without getting too cross of canon, and you do a really nice job of putting all this stuff together. I am not a Jarlaxle or Drizzt fan necessarily, but I am a FR fan. I think there is a lot made of the whole Drizzt line of novels and stories and characters and there are so many other interesting characters that have not been fleshed out by WotC (I guess its all driven by fan popularity). What i do want to say to you is this: it looks like you have put together a great and much needed series on FR, and I really appreciate it. I will be spending much time on your channel catching up.
Thanks! I hope you find it a solid resource for your games!
Jarlaxle's wild clothes phase was tied with his earlier life when he was content to conduct business mostly in the Underdark. But once he decided to focus on surface operations ("The Sellswords"), his clothing became more conservative. Well, except for the damn pimp hat!
Having nearly been sacrificed by the priestesshood of Menzo, Jar started out by plotting how to undermine the authority of priestesses as a houseless rogue, while insulating himself from personal blame, and always coming out ahead. This was manifested in a flashy, foppish personal sense of fashion, and a reputation as a rake and manipulator, who could nevertheless get dirty deeds done, for not so cheap.
Over time, Jar decided to get organized by recruiting likeminded drow with grudges against the authorities of Menzo. His band, Bregan d'Aerthe, has magnified his successes and his desirability for those wanting work done without getting their hands dirty.
Jarlaxle is interesting because, while he wished for centuries to stick it to the priestesses of Menzo, this did not in any way make him a morally good person. He hated the clergy and their religion, but he loved no one beside himself. Jar was a sociopathic user, abuser, and backstabber of the highest order. But he got away with it, because he paid well.
And then there was Drizzt. Drizzt Do'Urden showed that someone could not only have a different morality than mainstream dark elves, but he could also thrive on the surface. He could obtain friends, and fame, and not die at the hands of Lolth or her agents. This began to inspire common drow, eliciting jokes and drinking tales, as much to undermine priestess rule as to praise the dark elf rebel. Jarlaxle was fascinated by this. And as always, he craved a way to take advantage of it to his profit.
Then along came Entreri. The human fighter/assassin was pulled into the drow sphere because of a past negative run-in with Drizzt, but the assassin did not simply roll over and play the obedient slave. Entreri showed that Drizzt wasn't the only one who could happily give Lolth the middle finger. Jarlaxle was ecstatic to observe this fellow in action, and resolved to make studying him a personal project.
In their adventures together, Jar took turns encouraging Entreri to enjoy surface adventures with a grandiose flare, and betraying the human whenever that was easier than standing by him. Theirs was not a happy life together, but each still learned much from one another.
Meanwhile, Drizzt's symbolism as a defiant smalltime hero continued to spread amongst the drow populace, as Lolth and her priestesses pursued chaos and unpredictability to the point that a growing portion of the dark elf society in Menzo found it harder to tolerate the faith and its precepts.
So Jarlaxle switched gears and began directly helping Drizzt and his friends. He assures Drizzt that he believes in the goodly drow, and with a little work, so could the majority of the people of Menzo. Jar's backstabbing ways have diminished, as goodly habits seem to rub off on him.
He still gets his best work done in the dark, but he is maneuvering to help far more than just himself, these days.
Stoked on this! Thank you!!
It's funny how Drizzt and Jaraxle are Lloths most favored drow
Gotta love the jarlaxle and Artemis combo
Rai-guy Bondalek & Kimmuriel Oblodra are both awesom drow villains to cover.
Erevis Cale is another memorable character and one of my favorites or any of the Red Wizards.
Jarlaxle is one my favorite FR characters.
He's great!
The NIght Parade was a sick book, dark and good.
Currently playing Waterdeep. My character (High half-elf monk) and his Goliath Paladin were stripped of arms and armor after passing out drunk in a tavern. Woke up in a cage and bad guys show up. We note that kids were also in the cages with us and the bad guys go to take them away. So like idiots, we decide to be direct and do something about it: goliath yeets my character out of the 2.5 foot hole in the top of the cage, roll initiative. Quickly becomes clear I'm fighting way the hell out of my weight class so the DM throws me a bone and bring in Jarlaxle to bail my ass out while the Goliath tries to break out of the cage. Wind up winning the encounter but now my character is wary as hell because he knows Jarlaxle by reputation and the DM has been throwing Underdark creatures at us to include a Drider... and a cursed sword that apparently came from Lolth is in the mix as well.
Nice and enjoyable!
Please make more of these!
Love this stuff :)
Thanks!
I’m just saying this before the video starts I know very little on Jarlaxle but I do enjoy him as a character from the forgotten realms, I’d really like to spend more time reading the books because I’ve never played dnd which would be fun. 💕💕
Thank you again!! This is very interesting and helpful!
sweet :D
If you wanted to know about Jarlaxle, all you had to do was ask friend :)
Thanks for the video!
I thought he was sacrificed met lolth and was sent back? 🤔 And archmage Gromph is the most powerful male in drow society..
My favorite character!
I dunno, Jarlaxle just sounds like a medication for Erectile Dysfunction...
One daily Jarlaxle will have you banging dragon sisters in no time.
Pretty sure he can fix that, but it will cost you... and it would still be cheaper that if you had insurance.
This is a solid primer for Jarlaxle.
A more nuanced look at this character's beginnings is needed, however. Jarlaxle wasn't privileged because of his station as a noble and indeed he was meant to be sacrificed to Lolth as soon as he was born because he was the third-born male (it's a Drow thing).
Due to a deception played on Matron Baenre by a now deposed Mother Matron, Jarlaxle was spared sacrifice through the use of psionics... which also led to the death of the second-born male Baenre. This not only negated the reason for the sacrifice, Jarlaxle now being the "second- born" son, but it also led Matron Baenre to believe Jarlaxle was protected by Lolth and/or, at the least, that killing him would anger the Queen of Spiders.
Such was the reason House Baenre never went after Jarlaxle when he founded Bregan D'aerthe... that, and Jarlaxle's "everybody profits" attitude made his mercenary band's existence very profitable for Menzoberanzan and especially House Baenre.
Katrina No'Quarr , House of Gwathlo Ve Dagnir, wielding the Arm of Valor , and the Dragon spear,...I hit with The One Power "Balefire". We agreed to not use it, my le titan(helm of alignment changing) had an aura of Diamond dragon effect" but was still bested by the drow queen Zesstra No' Quarr
Jarlaxle isn't really evil, nor is he good. And he's certainly not neutral. There should be a spot on the alignment chart just labelled "Jarlaxle" for the chill-ass mofo characters who give no fucks. Except Jarlaxle fucks. That's canon, baby.
Jarlaxle is simply the best
Have you done a video on the drow/shadow dragon assassins guild Jaezred Chaulssin from the city of Wyrmshadows in the underdark? its a very cool topic and I would love for more to know about them and to know more about them. They are basically the flip side of most Drow societies a patriarchy lead by Patron Fathers instead of Matron Mothers...do they still exist in 5e? Id love to see a video featuring them
Jarlaxle is one of my favorite characters next to Erevis Cale.
Jarlaxle had the foresite to give over his company before he started messing around with the shard. He is one of a few who couldn't be corrupted by the shard. I think the sword "cutter" would be a good with him. But of all the people jarlaxle is the most powerful in the series he's just bored. A friend of zaknifien, of drizzit, so much magic about him, controlling the shard, his band, ties to the underdark, ability to teleport anywhere anytime.
Oh yeah, right from the first DnD book that I've read! Love it!!
Woo
4e neverwinter campaign setting has hin under the city also.
Awesome video, I've always liked Jarlaxle.
Thanks!
I loved Jarlaxle in WD:DH, but my characters straight up just tore him to pieces with graphic description. It was very disheartening
No offense, Jemma, but you might have played him wrong; Jarlaxle goes nowhere unless he's certain he has a diplomatic, fighting, and escaping strategy, or some crazy combination of all three. Not to mention the entirety of his mercenary group's finest warriors are within an arm's reach of him, ready to strike at a moment's notice if someone twitches wrong. In addition to his impressive arsenal of magical items, it should be impossible to kill this man short of a wish spell or two. And even then, there would be some serious ramifications for doing so.
Jarlaxle is an OG of the Drow race.
Chaotic Neutral.
Yes he’s one of my favorite drow...Please keep character lore(especially drow character ) stuff coming😈🕸🕷👍🏼👍🏼💯
jarlaxle my beloved
He also was son of a drow maitron of the most powerful house in the city and did spying and assinations also fought in house war depending on what his mother or sister chose 😊 good evening 👍🌆.
Jarlaxle is house Baenre’s third born son which is why he was allowed to get away with so much.
False he was third born just like drizzt but lolth has plans for jarlaxle so laid a blessing on him keeping yvonnel from slaying him on the alter like all third born sons are sacrificed. Gromph is actually the eldest son of house baenre
@@joshuamiles5293 You're right. I had it in my head for some reason that all first born sons are to be sacrificed, but then remembered Drittz had two older brothers and of course Gromph was explicitly stated to the eldest. I edited my comment.
@@joshuamiles5293 Still somewhat false. Lolth was not the one who saved Jarlaxle, it was Kiorol Oblodra(sry if I spelt that wrong) Matron mother of the once third house of Menzoberrenzon before the time of troubles. She uses her psyonic powers to protect the Jarlaxle making it look as if Lolth saved him.
Thanks for the correction! Just want to make sure people get the information right. Just a humble servant of Oghma
@@joshuamiles5293 I'm right there with ya!
Thanks. He is one of my favorite characters. I only him from all R.A. Salvatore books
Yay I was wondering when this would be covered
right now! :D
Omg it's Bay-en-ré and Brāgen-de-airth.
more of these! thank you!
I'll try!
Jarlaxle is my favourite character from D & D he such a grey character
"We don't read minds"
then you should have taken more levels into wizard, or take a few levels in GGO Warlock
I'll get on that 🤔
@@Jorphdan (knocks on door) "Hello! Can I interest you in some cursory, non-mind altering, knowledge on our Lord and savior Pthu'Raigabdr? We of his will would like to invite you to be a part of our holy self. To be one with sjjepwnrhduwbeg (twitch) is to be one with *all*..."
Anyone here know where the best place to find out of print FR novels? I only need a few of them now to complete my library. I've got over 280 of them this far but am missing some of the more obscure novels. I know some of them never made it to print such as the Sword of the Gods book 2 but I'm trying to have a physical copy of all books that have them. Superfan of Forgotten Realms. Got started reading Homeland when I was 12 and had read all currently released drizzt novels by 15 as well as the War of the Spider Queen novels and the Sellswords.
I've always found Dimple Record's a good place for Forgotten Realms books I even found some Eberron books there. But I mostly just call any used book store I can find.
I love Jarlaxle I also like to know more lore about his friendship with Drizzts father Zaknefine 👍❤️
Yeah Jarlaxle is not a villain he’s an individualist absolute independent character who runs a merc group
He was one of the main villains in Waterdeep Dragonheist.
His organization is pronounced (bree gan day arthe)
he also has kazidhea the drow sword
After reading the latest novel, you'll find out that Jarlaxle doesn't shave his head by choice. Its pretty comical.