Lazarus - Perform changes are ok with me (what a surprise

). I'll rework my skills some time soon.
I also agree Baril would not know nothing but vague rumors about the evil wizard. That's what I actually meant, but I can tone that down in the background if you like.
Some suggestions for connections with other characters:
In general, Baril is somewhat well-traveled and likely to seek company, so he could know just about anyone if you like. He gets along with all kinds of people. He likes the city scene so he spends most of the time he isn't wandering around in the capital.
Rybaer - Baril likes wizards in common, they have the same interest in knowledge as he does. I think our characters could easily be friends if the dwarf is willing to tolerate a babbling bard, that is.

Maybe Baril had worked for the gnome who trained Bellows as an apprentice and learned to know the dwarf that way?
Shalimar - Baril is not above working with rogues. Actually he likes to be around them, because it reminds him of home, the gypsy caravan. He could have sometimes worked with the group of thieves Tuli was with until the rest of them got caught. Besides, being somewhat an outcast as a gypsy himself, they would have something in common. What do you think?
Tanstaafl - Nylarra, being a noble's daughter in the Corlinna region, could have met Baril. Baril's earlier jobs have mostly been finding information about some pieces of art or other interesting items. People who'd be interested or could afford it would be mostly nobles. Just an idea - some nobles probably wouldn't even consider hiring someone with Baril's heritage.