Sandpoint is a large town, but not big enough to be called a city. It has a theater, a few taverns, a well known glass works, and a few other points of interest. All in all, just large and popular enough that their annual Swallow Tail Festival is known through the area, attracting locals from Magnimar to see them release the butterflies at the start of the festivies.
This year, the Swallow Tail Festival also marks the dedication of the town's new temple. After the previous one burned down early last year, this new one is largely dedicated to Desna, but most good aligned deities have a shrine inside (Erastil's being the biggest of those).
The six of you find yourself in the town square amongst all of the locals, everyone gathered to hear the opening speeches. Mayor Deverin goes first; as always, her speech is a little stuffy but short. Next is Sheriff Hemlock, his words about safety and responsibly enjoying the party bringing the mood down some. Last is Father Zantus; somewhat nervous at his first festival in Sandpoint, he still comes off as affable and gets the crowd back in the partying mood after the Sheriff's warnings. As as the sun reaches it's crest, he declares the festival begun, pulling the rope and releasing the tarp over the wagon. Hundreds of blue Swallow Tail butterflies burst into the open, filling the sky and the on lookers with their gossamer wings. The children in the crowd begin to chase after them as the games begin all around the square and through out town. Musicians begin to play lively tunes as the crowd begins to disperse towards the various attractions, the sound of their conversations soon filling the square.
There are a variety of festival games to be had, and a ton of food. All of the vendors in town have stalls set up, so feel free to peruse them. Most notably is the glass blowers stall, displaying a wide variety of decorations and goods. As for the games and contests,
there is:
Arm Wrestling
Horse shoes
Archery
Poetry and Music
Racing
Wrestling
more to come as the day progresses
Feel free to choose from them, or just to enjoy the party.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
A faint smile upon her lips Elery, a pretty young woman with blazing red hair pixie like features and green eyes dressed like a woodsman, moves unobtrusively through the crowds watching the children play and nodding to acquaintances here and there. After a brief perusal of the glasswares, she makes her way over to the horse shoes game and watches a few tosses before stepping forward, stabbing her spear into the dirt, and proceeding to try her hand,
Horseshoe:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
"Pffft, thank goodness Erastil does not actually require you to have a good aim!" She snorts, seeing her less than spectacular effort, as her cheeks turn pink, "give me a shout if anyone with skill similar to my own manages to hit themselves on the head!"
Glancing at a butterfly that has alighted upon her shoulder she admonishes, "You did not see that alright?"
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Ambling by Snyk's side, Harness noticies that his heavy feet leave semi-permanent prints in the beautiful earth.
So this is freedom. I...like it so very much!
Harness is self-conscious of his form, and his former function, but others also present are evidently armed and of a martial persuasion, so his thoughts move on to other things.
When the swallowtail butterflies spread aloft he feels something...even more beautiful than anything he has felt ever before. So much of life is fleeting, and yet so incredible. He wonders if Snyk feels the same way. Seeing the arm-wrestling, Harness sees an opportunity to test himself.
"This I can do! Come Snyk, let us see!" he calls to his friend. "Then you can have a turn!"
Harness contorts his facial features into his best approximation of a smile, and pits himself against another.
Diplomacy:1d20 - 2 ⇒ (7) - 2 = 5[for reaction of others nearby to his "smile"] Arm Wrestle:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24
conditions: none Ratfolk U.Rogue (Knife Master) 2: HP 17/17; AC18, T15, FF14; Init +4; Fort +1, Ref +7, Will +0; CMD 14: Perception +5:
"As you say."
That would not go well for me. At least he seems to be enjoying himself.
Snyk soaks in all the sights and sounds of the festival. The smells, the music, the bits of overheard conversation. He spots a single low flying butterfly meandering its way through the stalls and civilians. He watches its flight path with his eyes for a time until it flutters out of view.
Let's see if Harness's competitor can do as well... Arm Wrestle:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20
First person Harness pits his strength against is a local wood cutter and last year's champion. You both hold steady for a few seconds, and then you slam his hand down to the surprise of everyone.
@Harness, if you wish to stay in the tournament, make 3 more strength checks and I'll roll against them. Single elimination tournament.
@Elery, the local theater master steps out of the crowd to announce a contest. Everyone interested will be grouped in pairs randomly and the horse shoe game will begin. Entry cost 1 sp with the winning team splitting 2/3 of the pot, second place getting their money back, the rest going to funding the party next year. Would you like to enter?
Half-Elf Ranger 1 | hp 11/11 | Init 4, Per 12 | AC 17, T 14, FF 13 | Fort 2, Ref 6, Will 2 | longbow 5 (1d6/x3), longsword 3 (1d8+3/19) | Goblinoid +2, PBS
Despite it being a festival, Girnt has still managed to find himself something to do. Helping out with the archery games, Girnt watches as each contestant tries their luck. A few kids stand close by, probably hoping to hear a story or try a bow.
"Come see just how good your hunting aim really is!" Girnt shouts out, drawing out more customers. "Let's see if you really can hit the side of a barn for once!"
Despite it being a festival, Girnt has still managed to find himself something to do. Helping out with the archery games, Girnt watches as each contestant tries their luck. A few kids stand close by, probably hoping to hear a story or try a bow.
"Come see just how good your hunting aim really is!" Girnt shouts out, drawing out more customers. "Let's see if you really can hit the side of a barn for once!"
Make a diplomacy or perform role to see how many people you attract.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Elery snorts and waves the offer off smiling, "Ah, no I think my trial has shown my true colours! I struggle to hit things with a spear let alone a horseshoe! I would not want to be a burden, good luck everybody Deadeye guide your hands!"
Wandering over to the food stalls she picks up a chicken leg and heads over to watch Girnt trying to encourage the kids to take part in the archery. Waving her chicken leg at Girnt she shouts,
"I don't know Girnt, they do not look much like archers to me! But then I struggle to make an arrow go forwards and I'm a Cleric of Erastil, so its only a matter of seeing how much better than me you lot are."
Fela strides over to her place for the Swallowtail festival, her serpent coiling around left arm.
“No, Tac,” she whispers to him. “You’ll have to wait. I gave you a chance to eat earlier.” She shrugs to the red viper, allowing it to squeeze her arm before melding into her flesh as red ink.
She takes her place among the fellow Desnan followers, happy to be able to take part in the festival, as one of those responsible for releasing the butterlies. Starting to zone out to the dialogue, her interest rekindles when Father Zantus speaks, though his words are far from invigorating.
Fela joins in the festivities, more as an observer than an active participant, and notices a pretty young woman with blazing red hair pixie like features and green eyes dressed like a woodsman. Is she a fey? No, can’t be. Still though…” Her curiosity draws her to follow her as she heads toward the shouting half-elf at the archery contest.
Male Human Magus (Bladebound) 2: HP 14/19; AC 15, FF14, T11; Init +7; Fort +5, Ref +1, Will +3; CMD: 15 Perception +6; Arcane Pool 3/3
Eydor looks around the festival, surprised to see such festivities for the first time in his life. He walks around aimlessly, enjoying every new experience he finds upon himself.
He glances at the arm wrestling competition, seeing Harness winning over the last years champion.
He looks really strong and... Strange? I for sure wouldn't pick a fight with him. There's a lot of races I have no idea about. I wonder how many I'll find on my travels.
Catching a femenine voice amongst the crowd announcing an archery game, he approaches to take a look.
Half-Elf Ranger 1 | hp 11/11 | Init 4, Per 12 | AC 17, T 14, FF 13 | Fort 2, Ref 6, Will 2 | longbow 5 (1d6/x3), longsword 3 (1d8+3/19) | Goblinoid +2, PBS
"Erastil has a spot for each of us, Elery. Who knows. Maybe he's chosen one of these to be his next hunter," Girnt replies. Seeing a few more interested participants come by, Girnt waves them on. "Try your hand and see if your aim is true!"
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Elery nods sagely expression solemn, aside from the tiniest twitching upturn at the corners of her mouth, "Could be, could be. Well let's see what you've got, maybe the next Blackfeather."
Then covering her mouth with her hand, longspear hooked awkwardly in the crook of her elbow, she took a bite of her chicken leg.
Well, it seems we've role played past our need for the diplomacy roll, which is good. Anyone who wants to can participate in the archery competition. Same rules as the horse shoe; 1 sp to enter. Winner gets half the pot, 2nd and 3rd get their money back, the rest goes towards next years festival. 4 locals join in, including one of the kids. Normal ranged attack rolls, AC is 10 for the target, 12 for the middle, 14 for the bulls eye. 3 shots each, best wins.
The crowd seems excited with the competition. Both hunters do very well, tied at this point. The young man only hits the target once. The little girl has a terrible first shot, sending the arrow flying towards one of the displays, but then seems to concentrate and hits the bull's eye with the next two.
Harness, would you like to continue with the arm wrestling?
Snyk, what are you doing in this time?
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
"Wow, what a come back Aggie! Way ta go!" Elery calls excitedly, pumping a fist enthusiastically. She had never really taken to her gods favoured weapon, but she could appreciate its usage at least, especially when the bow was practically bigger than the user.
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Harness "smiles" again.
"Look, Snyk! I am powerful. Fun!
I am the champion!.
Only he isn't, at least not yet. He strives to win again.
Arm Wrestle:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21 Arm Wrestle:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7 Arm Wrestle:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16
Here we go. The strong and athletic - and even more so those that think they are – are the ones who I probably patron most. This might be the perfect spot to start my clientele in Sandpoint.
Fela positions herself between the arm wrestling and archery competitions, and cries out of the gathering and those coming and going. “Get your vouchers, here! Half off for the first ink job at Inkmaster Fela’s!”
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Glancing at the children nearby, "If any of you lot think about taking one of those vouchers... well I will be happy to heal you up after your Ma or Da applies the hot iron, but I do not recommend it."
Movie towards Fela, she gives a slight smile as she takes a voucher, "Do you tattoo holy symbols? Stags? I am Elery by the way, is it you doing the, ah, is it inking?"
1) Harness, lets see how your competitors do against you.
Arm Wrestling:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7 Arm Wrestling:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (9) + 1 = 10 Arm Wrestling:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Harness is knocked out in the second to last round of the competition, but does well for a new comer.
2) Fela, you get a few interested villagers that come up. A few ask for prices, some hear Elery's question and ask the same. A few younger locals are chased off by their parents.
3) Elery, at your admonishment (friendly though it is), those few children who seemed interested wander off with Aggie, congratulating him on his success at the archery competition.
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Harness shakes his head at being bested so easily in his third bout. He nods to Snyk.
Moving towards Fela, she gives a slight smile as she takes a voucher, "Do you tattoo holy symbols? Stags? I am Elery by the way, is it you doing the, ah, is it inking?"
Fela smiles, handing the voucher over. "Sure, I can ink just about anything, given enough time and materials. The art and the ability certainly wouldn't be shortcoming. Swing by some time. And yes, it's just me so far, so I would be doing it. The name's Fela. Good to meet you, Elery. So, I take it you follow Old Deadeye?"
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
"Sure, good to meet you to! And yes, but, well, don't expect me to do anything with a bow *sigh* I don't really care for the whole archery thing overmuch. Erastil gives you the power to cure bunnies, and next thing you know every Tom, Dick, and Harry with a bow expects you to judge their mumbling archery contests. I mean I had to learn, but..."
Realizing she has gone off on a bit of a tangent Elery wrinkles her nose sheepishly and tucks the voucher away in a pocket.
"I sort of host a few simple rituals here and there, try and help people and animals, and take care of Aunt Kendra's gardens. So if you are ever in need of healing feel free to give me a shout - I am a bit less formal than the Desna's lot, and much less powerful, but I don't require donations."
To be clear "mumbling" is Elery's swear, kinda like "sugar", etc.
As Snyk wins the competition hands down and gets his silver back plus the extra 3 silver as well, a dog wanders into the square, bleeding from the neck. It lets out a single, pained whelp before collapsing on the ground. As the crowd begins to take notice, they quiet down. As their noise drops, another takes its place.
GOBLINS CHEW AND GOBLINS BITE
GOBLINS CUT AND GOBLINS FIGHT
STAB THE DOG AND CUT THE HORSE
GOBLINS EAT AND TAKE BY FORCE
Battle map is up in the campaign details. No enemies are visible yet, but you all recognize the sound of violence imminent. Effectively,
the Goblins are skipping their turn this round, giving you a round to prepare.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
"Kids get over here behind me!" Elery shouts urgently before beginning to chant as she moves towards the archery contestants. A blessing of Erastil flows forth from her holy symbol as she spreads her feet and grips her longspear in both hands.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
"Kids get over here behind me!" Elery shouts urgently before beginning to chant as she moves towards the archery contestants. A blessing of Erastil flows forth from her holy symbol as she spreads her feet and grips her longspear in both hands.
Move 20 feet to the right and cast bless, all good guys within 50ft. of Elery get +1 to hit and +1 vs fear.
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
"I think it safe to assume they mean to disturb the festivities." intones Harness, deeply disappointed the festival has been interrupted.
"Eliminate them as best as you can, little Snyk. I will head into them and lay waste. If you wish, throw your spikes at them, and stay out of harm's way."
Harness moves north, level with Elery, while readying his heavy flail.
ROund 1
Move Action: Move four squares to the north.
Standard Action: Unhitch Marauder, Harness' heavy flail.
Fela stares at the dead dog, horrified at what could have been the cause of this. Stunned, she stands frozen in place as she drops the vouchers for her shop, several of which scatter and swirl in the wind of the market, adding a visual aesthetic to the chaos in the market. Fela shakes her head to wake herself from her daze and pulls her crossbow out from her back loading a bolt, scanning frantically for the perpetrator(s).
Male Human Magus (Bladebound) 2: HP 14/19; AC 15, FF14, T11; Init +7; Fort +5, Ref +1, Will +3; CMD: 15 Perception +6; Arcane Pool 3/3
Eydor takes a look at Snyk, first surprised at such a strange creature, and then surprised twice for such aim with a bow.
So, those two seem to be together... Intersting. I could learn a lot from them, maybe I should approach... Gah, I hate social interaction...
Then, the dog catches his attention. And the dog's blood soon does too. Quick to react, he turns upon the goblins chantings, moving to the left of Harness to make a barrier with him and protect the people of the town.
It looks like the party's over for now. If you're half as good with that weapon that you are in arm wrestling, they are in for a bad time. I'm with you.
He draws his scimitar and enchants it with a few arcane words, getting as ready as possible for them.
Move action: Move to the left square of Harness
Standard action: Draw scimitar
Swift action: Spend 1 arcane pool to enchant scimitar with +1 enhancement
Half-Elf Ranger 1 | hp 11/11 | Init 4, Per 12 | AC 17, T 14, FF 13 | Fort 2, Ref 6, Will 2 | longbow 5 (1d6/x3), longsword 3 (1d8+3/19) | Goblinoid +2, PBS
Girnt is surprised and angered as he sees the dog appear and collapse. He instantly recognizes one of the more used goblin songs as it begins to drift in the air. Grabbing his own bow and notching an arrow, Girnt keeps an eye out for the creatures while trying to help ebb the flow of chaos around them.
"Get to cover! Go indoors and block all entrances until it's over! Stay in groups!"
Girnt had experience with goblins, but this was completely unprecedented. The real question is how did they get here?
Move to draw weapon. Sorry about the slight delay. Paizo wasn't showing any updates for the gameplay tab, though it was for the discussion. I'll try to keep a closer eye on it.
Goblins race and goblins jump.
Goblins slash and goblins bump.
Burn the skin and mash the head.
Goblins here and you be dead!
The second verse starts up as the goblins move into view. A few of them have bloody swords drawn and a few are carrying torches as well. They see Harness and Eydor standing before them, apparently undeterred, and a frenzy lights their eyes as they charge forward to attack.
Their sudden, feverish violence breaks the local townspeople out of their shock and sends them running from the square in all directions at once, people rushing back and forth, calling out for friends and family members. You see Father Zantus begin to usher as many people as he can into the newly christened cathedral, his eyes darting between the crowd, the attacking goblins, and the six of you. Treat the town square as difficult terrain (except between Harness, Eydor, and the Goblins) for 1 round as the townspeople exit in a panic.
Three of the four goblins rush forward to attack, the fourth one runs up to the nearby wagon that recently held the swallowtail butterflies and uses its torch to start it on fire, chucking the entire brand into the back of the wagon.
Eydor quickly brings his blade to bear, shoving aside the clumsy attack by his little green foe.
Harness doesn't even have to move to avoid the first goblin's wild swing, but the second one lands a solid hit on his thigh. He does a little dance in excitement, not knowing that he didn't have the strength to actually do damage to the warrior before him.
Half-Elf Ranger 1 | hp 11/11 | Init 4, Per 12 | AC 17, T 14, FF 13 | Fort 2, Ref 6, Will 2 | longbow 5 (1d6/x3), longsword 3 (1d8+3/19) | Goblinoid +2, PBS
Spotting the goblins coming toward the stage, Girnt aims and lets his arrow fly, but hesitates a moment too long with so many people rushing past. Erastil keep it from hitting someone friendly.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Relieved as the crowd seem to be escaping while more capable folks provide a bulwark Elery moves carefully forward to support them. Frustrated at being unable to reach her foes she calls upon the power of her god and is briefly covered by a surging ass of vines which vanish a split second later revealing Elery's now towering form.
Standing nearly twelve feet tall, her longspear now the height of a flag pole she thrusts out at the goblin before Eydor. Unfortunately unused to her newly acquired bulk, and conscious of the villagers streaming past she stumbles and her spear cracks into the wooden stage sending splinters exploding outwards.
"Mumbling heck!"
10ft. move through difficult terrain. Swift action usage of growth domain enlarge power - last one round, reach now 20ft. Attack action that misses horribly.
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Harness looks at Eydor momentarily, eyebrow metal raising before taking notice of a "clong!", a vibration in his leg, and the dancing goblin at his knee. Harness sweeps Marauder accordingly.
"Well met, arcane warrior!" he adds to Eydor. "I am Harness."
The flailing chain sweeps over the head of the goblin, achieving naught but creating a small wind...
Male Human Magus (Bladebound) 2: HP 14/19; AC 15, FF14, T11; Init +7; Fort +5, Ref +1, Will +3; CMD: 15 Perception +6; Arcane Pool 3/3
Eydor worries for a split second, seeing a few hits missed from his newfound companions, but he quickly reacts to the situation and tries his best to draw first blood in a combat. All his training must be worth something.
Using Spell Combat, attacking goblin in front of him
5ft step back, putting himself in the lower left corner of Harness
He then moves his right hand and musters a few words, trying to enchant the goblin right in front of Harness to avoid him from attacking his combat companion or doing any harm to anyone.
Will Save:1d20 - 1 ⇒ (16) - 1 = 15
A flurry of blows and shots go wide as our stalwart warriors attempt to not kill the locals as they fight off these invaders. Eydor lands a solid hit on one of these knee high menaces; but it stays standing, although it is swaying some. A small flash of light then comes from Eydor's hand, streaking towards the goblin in front of Harness, but to no visible affect. The goblins now see their chance to surround and bring down Harness and move to do so, howling and laughing in high pitched voices as they attack. Their crudely made short swords flash, and......
....most of the attacks make contact with his body, none of them are able to penetrate his thick plating to get to any sensitive areas.
Unseen by most, Snyk moves towards the goblin burning the wagon in the back and guts it quickly and efficiently. It dies without making a sound or knowing that Snyk was ever there.
Snyk, your K(Local) check grants you that these are Goblins and gives you 1 question. Everyone else's turns now. Only the outside 2 rows of squares are difficult terrain now as the townspeople quickly vacate the area, next round there will be no more difficult terrain at all.
BEGINNING OF ROUND 3
Half-Elf Ranger 1 | hp 11/11 | Init 4, Per 12 | AC 17, T 14, FF 13 | Fort 2, Ref 6, Will 2 | longbow 5 (1d6/x3), longsword 3 (1d8+3/19) | Goblinoid +2, PBS
Girnt lets out a deep breath as the last of the townspeople begin to leave. Hopefully they would get somewhere safely. He is heartened to see a few staying back to help fight, though. The warforged especially catches his eye as the armored being takes the brunt of the goblins' attention.
Let's see if we can't help that.
Standard Action: Shooting at the goblin straight north (or up) from Girnt's position. Attack:1d20 + 5 + 1 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (16) + 5 + 1 + 2 - 4 = 20 Damage:1d6 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Using her enlarged height to step up onto the stage Elery soon dwindles back to her normal height before thrusting her spear down at the goblin in front of Harness. This time her aim is true and her spearhead sinks home skewering the creature between its neck and shoulder sending blood spraying forth.
"You were not invited!" she snaps, glowering down at the goblins.
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Harness grunts as the goblins puny attack rain down upon his adamantine form, then smiles as the goblins either side of him are dispatched. He sweeps Marauder back again at the creature that he missed previously...finally catching one bodily...
"Indeed" the warforged booms, echoing Elery's negation of the goblinoids.
As the last goblin drops to the ground, silence rules the town square. The sound of heavy breathing from the sudden and unexpected exertion is all that any of you can hear for the next few seconds. The square is empty of all civilians and the church doors are closed.
After those few seconds, you all hear the sound of more terrible things happening in town and plumes of smoke rising over the rooftops.
You all have a bit to catch your breath. Good job on that last round, much better luck with the dice rolls.
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Harness looks about at the small carnage, and exhales heavily. He shakes Marauder free of any...goblinic detritus, then looks to his newfound allies. He merely nods.
"I am Harness. [here juts his head toward yonder chaos] It seems there are more uninvited guests. [and looks around] Snyk!?!"
Half-Elf Ranger 1 | hp 11/11 | Init 4, Per 12 | AC 17, T 14, FF 13 | Fort 2, Ref 6, Will 2 | longbow 5 (1d6/x3), longsword 3 (1d8+3/19) | Goblinoid +2, PBS
Girnt keeps his bow at the ready and tries to calm a bit. These goblins were taken care of, but it definitely wasn't over yet. "I'm Girnt, local hunter," he says, coming over to the group of braves. "I thank you for helping in the fight. Never believed goblins would make it into Sandpoint proper, especially not during the festival."
While he speaks, Girnt looks around for any other threats as well as searching for any wounded townspeople.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Elery glances around anxiously, before jumping down and moving over to the group, nodding to Girnt, "Elery. Thank you," she says hurriedly, "I am a Cleric, is anybody hurt? If not I ask you to please accompany me and deal with the rest of these goblins quickly, before something more than a dog dies."
Even as she speaks her eyes scan the square frantically trying to ensure there are no stragglers from the crowd who might be in danger.
Am I right that only Harness got hit, but it did not penetrate his DR?
Male designation Warforged Fighter 1/Warpriest 1 HP 21/21; DR 2/adamantine; AC 20/11/FF19; Fort +7, Ref +1, Will +1; Init +1; Per -1; Spd 20 ft. CMB +5 CMD 16
Harness stows Marauder and nods to Elery and Girnt.
"Well met."
The warforged pats his adamantine body, and casually toes a goblin corpse to make sure it is really dead.
"Barely a dent here. Snyk...you ok? The little sneak in the shadows is my shadow, Snyk."
Alright folks, those of you invited into the game, start posting and discussing concepts here. General rules so far are as follows.
Character creation stuff
1) Paizo only with a few exceptions to follow. I prefer Core stuff, but I’m down for anything…. anything that fits the theme of the campaign. If you make a gunslinger, that’s cool. If you make a gunslinger that is modeled after Al Pacino, I’m going to take my proverbial DM finger and proverbially flick your character off the proverbial map and tell you to make something else. Anything not from the Core Rulebook has to be from a book I own, which is most of them. I have pretty much everything except the player companions and gazetteers. Just ask.
Non-Paizo allowed sources: 3.5 Eberron races (Warforged, Shifter, Changling) and their racial feats. Classes from Kobold Quarterly as long as I own the issue. Tome of Secrets, both races and classes.
2) Discuss your party amongst yourself. I don’t pull punches and I won’t change the AP to compensate for the party make up. Don’t have a rogue? There will still be locked doors and traps. Don’t have a controller? There will still be mobs. Keep this in mind while you’re discussing your party make up.
3) The technical side.
22 point buy (not a typo)
2 traits
Full HP at level 1
Roll for starting gold, minimum is 150
No evil alignment (prefer no CN; but if you think you can pull it off, I’ll let you try)
4) Once you have your character nailed down, tell us about them. The info I'm looking for is: Why are they adventuring/willing to adventure? Why are they adventuring here? What do they want? (Short term and long term) And this last one is both proverbial and literal. Do they want safety for the village? Great. Do they want a Rod of the Sunlords? I'll work it into the game eventually. So give me a break down of both the characterization and the mechanical progression you hope to make.
5) Don't hesitate to ask questions. I have one of my home games tomorrow after a full work day, so I won't be checking in much until the day after. But I will try.
I will add a Game play thread later on. I want to give you guys until 2/21/18 to discuss and build characters. I want a full formatting of the character in your alias. See Kar Roden under my alias for the sort of thing I'm looking for. Doesn't need to be exact, but as much info as possible is helpful.
I have no intention of sticking to strictly by the book play. I will add in new treasure, some new creatures, take some out, move them. So don't be surprised if somethings don't match up with what you have seen from previous partial play throughs.
Hi folks. Looks like a nice set of creation rules...
@GM Sphen - quick three questions -
1: are the creation rules for Warforged/Shifter/Changeling from this Eberron Pathfinder site acceptable?
2: do you own Kobold Quarterly #23 - specifically asking about the Gauntlet Witch archetype? (shameless I know, I am the author...)
3: regarding Warforged, can they be reflavoured as the fairly rare product of mages or construct summoners or similar; or do you have a set idea for a nation they hail from?
Hi folks. Looks like a nice set of creation rules...
@GM Sphen - quick three questions -
1: are the creation rules for Warforged/Shifter/Changeling from this Eberron Pathfinder site acceptable?
2: do you own Kobold Quarterly #23 - specifically asking about the Gauntlet Witch archetype? (shameless I know, I am the author...)
3: regarding Warforged, can they be reflavoured as the fairly rare product of mages or construct summoners or similar; or do you have a set idea for a nation they hail from?
1) I would allow the favored class options, but that is all. You should pull the races straight from the Eberron materials as is. The only adjustments I feel would be needed are some of the level requirements for the feats since you gain feats faster in Pathfinder.
2) I do own KQ #23. I would allow the Gauntlet Witch with one rule. I get to be the personality of the Gauntlet.
3) As for the reflavoured, I would say no. But only because I had already set something up in my head for that. But I'm going to keep it a secret until it is revealed in game. If you (or anyone else) chooses to play a Warforged, we will discuss it in more detail at that time.
Ok, thanks for the answers. I don't have the source mateial with me at the moment (away from home until tomorrow), thus the link!
Nominally looking at a Warforged Gauntlet Witch, with you playing the gauntlet. Unless I have a crisis of confidence and go for something a little more Core. Likely a human, possibly a Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Inqusitor or Warpriest. Maybe a Druid.
Heya everybody :) Thanks for the invite GM Sphen, particularly as I am new to the site, if not PF, and have been jonesing for a RP fix!
So at the moment I am thinking of a human female Cleric of Erastil, probably lightly focused on melee as a viable secondary combatant. Thinking of making her an ex Magnimar resident who was sent away by her family after some scandalous (for Magnimar) behavior that saw her have a child out of wedlock, with a Married man, but loose the babe during birth. Sent away to Standpoint to be Father Zantus's ward she went from party girl to quiet and contemplative, and after finding comfort in nature gravitated towards Erastil's more gentle aspects, gardening and often tending to injured animals - particularly birds brought to her by the village children.
Domain wise, Growth, because I have wanted to try it for ages, and possibly the Animals Domain or Feather subdomain, depending upon how GM Sphen feels about speak with animals coming up on a regular basis, and on whether an additional animal companion at 4th level feels like it would be a bit much for the group and bog things down.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Here is Elery, with basic back story and ability scores. I will flesh out her statblock fully over the weekend. Planning on taking the Merchant Family Campaign trait as that gives some nice ties to Sandpoint and Magnimar, and a nifty family name.
For my character, I'm thinking of a tattoed sorcerer that is interested in the ancient ruins, or a ranged ranger that helps patrol Sandpoint's forest for goblins. Depend a bit on party build. What are your guy's opinion?
@GM Sphen: Will we be using Background Skills? I find they help add flavor to characters, especially skill-starved classes.
Ok, rethinking. Possibly just go straight martial with a true-to-type Warforged Fighter or Paladin. I think there was a good non-mount Cavalier archetype in a recent Paizo book - Adventurer's Handbook?
So far it looks like:
Placeholder of Doom - Female Human Cleric (Erastil)
Fire Drake - Tattooed Sorceror OR Ranger (Ranged)
SkaTalon - ???
Oceanshieldwolf - Warforged Gauntlet Witch/Martial or Human (???)
If you have an idea for Warforged, then I'll lock that race in.
As for classes, still on the fence - depending on the need for a dedicated martial. Still looking at Gauntlet Witch, but if I go martial, how about a Disciple of the Pike Cavalier. It is from the Monster Hunter's Handbook. I like the Cavalier for the challenge and tactics abilities but don't like the Mount schtick.
@Oceanshieldwolf: Background Skills are an extra two skill points per level that are spent on more RP-ish skills, such as perform, profession, etc. Allows a bit of characterization without taking from a character's ability to perform on the field basically. Found in the Pathfinder Unchained book.
Also, the daring champion from the Advanced Class Guide might be what you're looking for for a mountless Cavalier.
Hi everyone! First of all, thanks for letting me play this one.
About what would I play... For the moment I'm a bit at a loss. I'm reading the player guide and trying to come up with ideas. Will post something as soon as it comes up, but suggestions would be welcome. I'm in for helping the party with a class that is needed.
Ok, thanks for the answers. I don't have the source mateial with me at the moment (away from home until tomorrow), thus the link!
Nominally looking at a Warforged Gauntlet Witch, with you playing the gauntlet. Unless I have a crisis of confidence and go for something a little more Core. Likely a human, possibly a Fighter, Monk, Paladin, Inqusitor or Warpriest. Maybe a Druid.
Are you dead against Summoners and Hunters?
I am not dead set against anything. I will say that if you play a Summoner, it does need to be the Unchained version of the class.
Heya everybody :) Thanks for the invite GM Sphen, particularly as I am new to the site, if not PF, and have been jonesing for a RP fix!
So at the moment I am thinking of a human female Cleric of Erastil, probably lightly focused on melee as a viable secondary combatant. Thinking of making her an ex Magnimar resident who was sent away by her family after some scandalous (for Magnimar) behavior that saw her have a child out of wedlock, with a Married man, but loose the babe during birth. Sent away to Standpoint to be Father Zantus's ward she went from party girl to quiet and contemplative, and after finding comfort in nature gravitated towards Erastil's more gentle aspects, gardening and often tending to injured animals - particularly birds brought to her by the village children.
Domain wise, Growth, because I have wanted to try it for ages, and possibly the Animals Domain or Feather subdomain, depending upon how GM Sphen feels about speak with animals coming up on a regular basis, and on whether an additional animal companion at 4th level feels like it would be a bit much for the group and bog things down.
2 things here.
1) RP wise, Father Zantus is a priest of Desna. I am not sure it makes sense that they would send you to be his ward as he himself is a new priest and not of the same religion.
2) I don't mind animal companion. As a player, I prefer to have one myself. That being said, if everyone chooses to have one...... you know what, forget about that. You can all pick one and just have a big ole party. More likely to have you all make it through to the end of the adventure anyway.
For my character, I'm thinking of a tattoed sorcerer that is interested in the ancient ruins, or a ranged ranger that helps patrol Sandpoint's forest for goblins. Depend a bit on party build. What are your guy's opinion?
@GM Sphen: Will we be using Background Skills? I find they help add flavor to characters, especially skill-starved classes.
We are not. I know some classes don't get much, but I feel it adds to the balance of the game.
If you have an idea for Warforged, then I'll lock that race in.
As for classes, still on the fence - depending on the need for a dedicated martial. Still looking at Gauntlet Witch, but if I go martial, how about a Disciple of the Pike Cavalier. It is from the Monster Hunter's Handbook. I like the Cavalier for the challenge and tactics abilities but don't like the Mount schtick.
A melee Inquisitor could be fun too...
I don't know what you mean by, if I have an idea. When I have allowed them used in the past, it's been just as is from the books.
If you go for that Cavalier archetype, I will require you to have it linked under the alias for quick reference since I don't own that book.
Also, I have already changed my mind on background skills to: I will think about it and let you guys know.
Hi everyone! First of all, thanks for letting me play this one.
About what would I play... For the moment I'm a bit at a loss. I'm reading the player guide and trying to come up with ideas. Will post something as soon as it comes up, but suggestions would be welcome. I'm in for helping the party with a class that is needed.
No one seems to be looking at any sort of control caster. So a wizard or sorcerer that specializes in that would be helpful.
My quick character concept is a historian junkie who wants to make his own mark on history. So obviously, he's infatuated with all things Thassilonian.
Could go a lot of ways with this one.
1) Wizard/Arcanist
2) Magus
3) Warpriest/Cleric obsessed with glory
4) Fighter fascinated with architecture
The first 3 I'm kind of digging more than the last.
@GM - I have played a little of the first book of this adventure & ran Jade Regent in its entirety as a GM so...
One thought I just had was a Warpriest of Shizuru (Samurai-type with Glory & honor as its focus) being a younger brother of Ameiko? Thoughts? If you don't think that will work, that's fine.
The other concept is a based more on a full arcane caster/magus that is obsessed with Thassilonian history and wants to study the culture to see where the runelords went wrong along the way (or some such).
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
GM Sphen wrote:
1) RP wise, Father Zantus is a priest of Desna. I am not sure it makes sense that they would send you to be his ward as he himself is a new priest and not of the same religion.
Agreed, after deciding on the Merchant Family trait I have her living with Kendra Deverin, who is her Grandfather's niece, but for the sake of ease referred to as her Aunt. Largely dropped the relationship with Father Zantus, though she has been providing assistance and an Erastilian view during the construction of the Cathedral.
Could not find any mention of actual Priests of Erastil, but I believe the religion is fairly informal in nature so I have not gone out of my way to give her a particular mentor.
Background:
The Granddaughter of Magnimar's Deverin family Patriarch Hogarth, Emery grew up thoroughly spoiled. Always friendly, mischevious, and generous, she had both family and servants wrapped around her little finger, and invariably got exactly what she wanted. At twelve she began helping at the families brewery, The Fancy Reefclaw, and her endearing mannerisms mad eher an exceptional sales woman and saw her become acquainted with Magnimar's idle young nobility.
She began to attend parties, drink to excess, and received many expensive gifts, even sneaking out at night. Eventually she fell in love with Darus Kaddren, a Mage of some repute and younger brother to House Kaddren's head. Unfortunately Darus's was both Married, and had a terrible reputation, with rumours that he was not averse to using magic to aide his womanizing.
Eventually her family discovered she was pregnant and forbade her to leave the house, with Darus showing no more interest in her, and even denying the babe could be his she became miserable barely ate, and weakened lost the babe in childbirth.
A few months after the loss of her child, at fifteen Elery was sent to Standpoint, her family hoping she could recover her once cheerful and outgoing personality and forget her troubles. Staying with her Aunt Standpoints Mayor Kendra Deverin she began spending time in the garden, tending the flowers and vegetables, and taking walks in the woods feeling drawn to nature and weary of people.
She began to worship Erastil, finding the simple ideas of man and nature working together and family called to her. She started to take in wounded birds healing them with Erastil's power, and soon the children of the Village would bring any injured animals they found to her. This drew her out, talking with the little ones, then their parents, and graduating to curing humans as well as critters.
Slowly her cheerful personality is reasserting itself as she becomes more and more a part of Standpoint, but it remains tempered by sadness and self doubt. Recently she has been involved in the building of the Cathedral, ensuring that Erastil is properly represented, bringing food, and encouragement to the workers.
Elery would like to have a family one day, but is not sure if she will every be ready to do so. Standpoint has become very dear to her and she has long since regarded the village as home.
Appearance:
Elery is fairly tall and slender, but well muscled with a head of fiery shoulder length hair that she tends to pull back in a tight utilitarian pony tail. Her fair skinned features are pixie like, with a faint smattering of freckles and cheeks that refularly flame with embarrasment.
She dresses like a woodsman more often than not, though she still keeps a few more feminine outfits for special occasions - when they are less likely to get covered in bird doings.
Since she often visits the woods Elery has started carrying her longspear and using it as a walking stick and is rarely seen without it.
@Zamdoc looks like we have most of the bases covered, though depending on builds we seem to lack lockpicking skills - though personally I dislike rogues and think many classes can do this just as well. If you are looking for suggestions how about trying a Magus? I think they are great fun to play, seems like GM Sphen might be up for playing the Black Blade, its an archetype that gives a free talking magic sword, from earlier comments, which can be entertaining. They generally deal a lot of damage, but cannot tank due to relatively low HP, etc., and spells make them pretty versatile.
@Famfrit given the tentative lineup I would lean towards a dedicated arcanist, plus people tend to subconsciously put there preferred option as number 1 in lists ;)
1) RP wise, Father Zantus is a priest of Desna. I am not sure it makes sense that they would send you to be his ward as he himself is a new priest and not of the same religion.
Agreed, after deciding on the Merchant Family trait I have her living with Kendra Deverin, who is her Grandfather's niece, but for the sake of ease referred to as her Aunt. Largely dropped the relationship with Father Zantus, though she has been providing assistance and an Erastilian view during the construction of the Cathedral.
Could not find any mention of actual Priests of Erastil, but I believe the religion is fairly informal in nature so I have not gone out of my way to give her a particular mentor.
** spoiler omitted **...
That magus archetype looks nice roleplay wise. If Sphen is up for it, I might give it a try and see what I can come up with.
Okay, so after thinking about it, I'm pretty sure I want to play it. I would prefer to leave anything related to the Black Blade to the GM so he can build something deep and interesting, even things like where I find it, what's his personality, and how it'll interact with the group and me (Pretty much letting you roleplay it).
If that is okay with you Sphen, I'll try to see if I can come up with a good background for him.
Now, that aside, I'll hold about what type of magus I'm going to play, since if I'm the only frontline I'll probably want to build a dex magus instead of a str one.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
I find Dex more to my taste, if GM Sphen is not keen on running the Black Blade Kensai's are badass. I always wanted to run a Staff Magus, but kept talking myself out if it be cause its not great mechanically.
I believe Oceanshieldwolf is planning on running a frontliner? I think of the Magus as a striker, as their lower HP can make them something of a glass cannon - I do not want to take a full attack from a serious foe as a Magus ever. Spells do help mitigate that a great deal though.
Also, the daring champion from the Advanced Class Guide might be what you're looking for for a mountless Cavalier.
Not really, Fire Drake. Thx though - I do see that crop up a bit. I was looking for something more like the Dreadnaught cavalier archetype I created. The Sister-in-Arms Cavalier archetype comes closer. Disciple of the Pike will work in a pinch.
Still deciding between a Gauntlet Witch, Cavalier, Druid, Hunter/Summoner or Fighter. Or monk. Gah.
EDIT: Or melee Inquisitor if we need the skills...
@GM Sphen - re: Warforged, I was referring to this:
GM Sphen wrote:
3) As for the reflavoured, I would say no. But only because I had already set something up in my head for that. But I'm going to keep it a secret until it is revealed in game. If you (or anyone else) chooses to play a Warforged, we will discuss it in more detail at that time.
Placeholder- Erastil Cleric
Zamdoc - Magus
Ocean - waffling all over the place
SkaTalon - four flavorful options
Fire Drake - tattooed sorceror or ranger (ranged)
Famfrit - arcane caster
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
This does not make a great deal of difference to begin with, but hurting for skills I am planning to take the Herald Caller archetype from the Monster Summoners Handbook. Is that permissible GM Sphen?
I was planning on taking Augment Summoning at 5th or so and this gives me it without the need for Spell Focus Conjuration. It gives up a domain, and medium armor proficiency, but seems just about worth it. I would probably pick up Summon Good Monster at 5th level instead if that is allowable.
Though I am not likely to summon anything for a mortal age in PBP time, low level summons not being great, mostly due to their duration vs summoning time.
Can we know the premise by which the party teams up? Would knowing each other beforehand be a problem? Anyone have good suggestions for party connections?
Alright, from what I've seen, I'll go with my ranger idea.
@SkaTalon: RotR does a good job of getting different characters into a group, but knowing each other beforehand shouldn't be an issue. Also, the life-debt idea seems like a good idea while also making a connection with another player right off the bat. Even if you don't use them, you can check the background traits for ideas as well.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
Sandpoint is pretty small so if our characters have been there for any length of time the likely know one another at least in passing. Elery has been living in the village for four years, and providing healing for the two of those. But I agree with @Fire Drake the AP does a good job of bringing the group together.
@SkaTalon you can download the Players Guide for free on this site, and I believe it gives the setup. To summarise briefly Sandpoint Church was burned down some years ago, I think, and they have just finished constructing a Cathedral dedicated to 6 gods, Abadar, Desna, Erastil, Gozreh, Sarenrae, and Shelyn - but mostly Desna as the Priest Father Zantus and the former Church are/were of that faith.
The Cathedral is being opened on one of Desna's holy days The Swallowtail Festival. So basically we are all attending a big party on the village square that incorporates the opening of the Cathedral. Everyone is there essentially so its a nice easy setup :)
@Oceanshieldwolf, I don't know how I didn't get that. I'll add a Warforged flavor post soon.
@Elery. Yes to the two alternate options with one exception. I am going to reserve the right to remove your ability to heal summoned creatures with your channel energy when they aren't in your radius. That just doesn't make much sense to me, but I'm going to let it run for now. If I feel it gets to be to much, I'm going to change it somehow.
@Party-Getting-Together, I have nothing in mind for that. You should all have your own ideas as to why you're in Sandpoint and/or willing to adventure around it. Obviously doesn't need to be super complicated. A simple "I like to go on adventures" is good enough.
@Elery (agian). I don't know why I forgot to mention the player's guide. Everyone should download it and read it. It's a great refrence tool. You may have already read that I have approved the archetype. I want your Perception score in the fluff under your name as well.
A question for you Elery. I looked through your character, and it all seemed good and done correctly. But why are you wearing Eastern style armor? Is there a story reason why or how she has armor of that type?
Nex and Geb. Two small countries far away from Sandpoint, where it's biggest problems are the local goblin tribes. But anyone who knows about them knows that they've been at constant war for generations. And, as history has shown, war breeds innovation (amongst other things). No one knows which side started the Warforged project, as they were found buried near the constantly fluctuating boarder, but both sides could agree that they are a marvel. The Pathfinders who had discovered this place had found nothing but ruins around the top, and had expected as much down below. But after getting through the seals protecting the door, they found something far more. A facility deep underground, a walkway that spiraled down and around, hundreds upon hundreds of feet, an open shaft of air in the middle dozens of feet across. The chamber was dimly lit only by the soft glow of crystals placed into the wall, but each crystal was at least 5 feet tall. And when the first explorer set foot on the ramp, they began to glow brighter. But they moved in anyway, expecting some sort of trap any minute, they moved cautiously down the ramp.
At the bottom, they found what one of them described as "the biggest damn armory I've ever seen, and I went to fight in Mendev against that damned demon horde". Tables, racks, cabinets, all full of weapons. Shelves and chests full of staves and spell books. Rope and lock picks and cloaks and battering rams. Alchemy labs, forges, shields, armor plating, every type of weapon you could imagine. Whoever built this place, they were arming people for war. And that is when they heard the first hiss.
From nearby, one of the crystals on the wall began to move, slowly lifting from the bottom up. Immediately on their guard, the Pathfinder agents moved together to form a defensive circle as another crystal began to slowly lift, then another, and another. Soon, every crystal they could still see had started opening. And out of them stepped creatures they had never seen before. Roughly human in height, most of them were as broad as dwarves. Their bodies covered in a variety of materials (wood, stone, mostly metal), their eyes made of gemstones (usually the same color, but not always); it quickly became apparent to them that these creatures had as much variety as humans themselves in their size, shape, and "eye" color.
They had little in the way of knowledge. This is not to say that they were dumb, just that they lacked experience. Most of them learned quickly though, as the Pathfinder Society took responsibility for them and integrating them into this world that they had never seen. They did know one thing, however. They had not been born into these bodies of magic and technology. They had been people once, so long ago that they cannot remember if they volunteered or not for this. The writings found later in this facility gave them a name, one that stuck despite their distaste for it. Warforged.
@Zamdoc, if you'd like to go with the Bladebound magus archetype, I'll allow it. There will be some things though. Since you don't get the blackblade until level 3, there are two ways we can handle it.
1) You already have the blade (reason determined by you, or us if you'd prefer), but it is dormant. It will awaken later, at the appropriate level.
2) You can find the blade in game, I'll have it in a thematically appropriate location in the game. But you might be past the level you would normally gain it. Not a ton, but it depends on what order you guys do stuff in to know when you'll get it.
Let me know which one you would prefer and we'll go with it.
Alright, as to the Back Ground skills question. My initial reaction is to say no, like it was before. But I then think to the Matt Colville videos and ask myself, why not? And I think that it just doesn't seem needed. I've already allowed so many archetypes I'm not familiar with that it's going to be difficult enough to keep up with these mechanics. But, these are pretty static bonuses. So, after a day of thinking, I am still torn. So we are going to solve this in the best way I know how, group vote. All votes before I get off work on Monday 2/19/18 will count, anyone who doesn't vote by then gets left out. If there is still a tie, I'll roll a die for it (odd number and they are included, even number and they are not).
@GM Sphen - re: Warforged Info awesome. That works. So:
# As for Background Skills: I vote yes, on the proviso that, as a Warforged, I don't get any! Unless GM Sphen allocates some to me as my built-for-war-specialisation.
@All: I'll try to lock down a concept tomorrow!
Player - Gender/Race/Class (archetype)
Placeholder- Female Human Cleric of Erastil (Herald Caller)
Zamdoc - ??? Magus (Bladebound)
Ocean - Warforged ???
SkaTalon - four flavorful options
Fire Drake - ??? Ranger (ranged)
Famfrit - ??? arcane caster
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
@GM Sphen Seems perfectly reasonable to me, and honestly its not something I could see myself making much use of anyway, I'll edit the ability accordingly.
As for the Eastern armor the truth is I did not know it was Eastern, I was looking at armor on the archive of Nethys and it was the best armor I could afford within my proficiency and dex, etc., it did not say it was Eastern, but I have not looked at the original source.
As it does not make sense contextually I will switch it out for scalemail, and bought a counties poutfit and signet ring.
I definitely vote background skills. I would for example use them for Profession Gardener, and Profession Brewer both of which it makes sense for Elery to be able to do, but are hard to justify when skill points are few and far between.
@GM Sphen I'm in for option two. I think it will make it more interesting and more realistic. I'll see what I can make, but I'm still at a loss about the background of my character. I'm all ears for some ideas or some shared background with another player if they would like to make one.
Cleric (Herald Caller) 1: HP 10/10; AC 17, 15, 12; Init +2; Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +4; CMD 15: Perception +2: Channel Energy 5/5; Enlarge 4/5
@Zamdoc take a look at the campaign traits they can give you ideas about appropriate backgrounds. Given that Magus is a bit of a specialized class you might be better off being from Magnimar, which is the city that Sandpoint pays nominal fealty to.
Or maybe you have been attending the nearbyish Twilight Academy and had to flee after falling out with a powerful older Necromancy student or some such. Give yourself a relative in Sandpoint and it becomes an obvious place for a discrete retreat.
Twilight Academy:
The Twilight Academy is a major center for magical learning in Varisia. Located in the small town of Galduria, it was founded by mages who wished to sidestep the politics of the larger magical colleges in Korvosa and Magnimar. Because of this, it is looked down upon by the other Varisian schools, who consider it an upstart with no sense of tradition or history.[1]
The Academy has always had the reputation of promoting some of the more unconventional theories of magic and not putting too many strictures on its students, leading to the occasional spell going awry.[1] This was most memorably demonstrated in 4688 AR, when a group of precocious necromancers from the Academy lost control of their carrion golems. The constructs went on a horrible spree of destruction in the countryside which is remembered to this day.[2]
The building which houses the Academy is constructed more like a small fortress, with numerous mundane and magical defenses. Some speculate that these defenses are designed more to keep people in, rather than to keep intruders away.[3]
