And everyone thinks the barbarian is dumb because they keep talking to the wildshaped druid

That's effectively every Oath of Redemption paladin.

Alternatively you turn it around and play it like a buddy cop movie: The straight-laced paladin screwed up and ended up breaking the law big time. He's given probation of he does some stuff for the city and the probation officer happens to be the loosest cannon in the entire force.

Cue the rogue constantly operating on "eh, it's probably going to be okay" (and getting his way because he's the actual cop) and the paladin burning half of his spell slots on curing the ulcers he's developing.

Add in the Rogue only being here because he's friends with the Barbarian and we're set.

Fighter: Barbarian's fratbro drinking buddy

Wizard: Fighter's emotionally distant and verbally abusive father-figure

Monk: Wizard's even more emotionally distant and verbally abusive father-figure

Sorcerer: Monk's third ex-spouse, mostly along to look after the Fighter because he's like a little brother to her

Ranger: Sorcerer's daughter by a second marriage and also the Druid's husband (which has led to some confusing moments with the cleric)

Bard: Rogue's legal defense counsel

Gotta go quest to the third circle of hell to make amends in recovery

These are fantastic. Thank you.

@PostWatchBot@lemy.lol