![[TarekRatleyPic.webp]]
# Tarak Ratley
_Human Former Assassin | [[Gilded Gallows]] | [[Stormwreck Isle|Dragon's Rest]]_
## Summary
Haunted former assassin who fled the [[Gilded Gallows]] after refusing to kill his lover, [[Adira Shadowveil]]. The party rescued him from the [[Red Daggers]], and he now seeks refuge at [[Stormwreck Isle|Dragon's Rest]].
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## Now
Sheltering at [[Stormwreck Isle|Dragon's Rest]] after the party pulled him from the [[Red Daggers]]. Still running from the [[Gilded Gallows]] in his head.
## Appearance
Lean, with dark hair streaked prematurely gray and haunted eyes; faded scars on his hands. Speaks quietly, checks exits constantly, flinches at sudden movements.
## Personality
Guilt-ridden and cautious, protective of innocents. Carries the weight of the partner he could not save.
## Quote
_"They make you think you're family, then they order you to kill the only person who ever truly loved you."_
## Connections
**[[Adira Shadowveil]]** — lover; refused to kill her, and she died for it.
**[[Ravenna]]** — captured them both and executed Adira when he wouldn't.
## Background
**The Partnership:** He and [[Adira Shadowveil]] rose through the [[Gilded Gallows]] together, becoming two of its most effective assassins. Their partnership became love, which they kept secret.
**The Betrayal:** When they planned to flee, their escape was betrayed. [[Ravenna]] captured them and ordered Tarak to kill Adira as a loyalty test. When he refused, [[Ravenna]] killed her herself. Tarak barely escaped and has been running since.
## Stats
**Base:** Assassin (MM p.343).
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