Order of the Gate (Inactive)

Game Master SOLDIER-1st

"I'm not saying we should ignore them. I'm saying that, should they be treated well, any unrest is merely as symptom. A sign of some interference by outside forces. I don't care what unrest lies within the hearts of the common people, as long as they don't act upon it. Or have proper plans to act upon it. Leave it to those goons of the Pyre and the Rack to waste their time on those folk. We concern ourselves with what really matters, not with disgruntled folk who just wish for a way out of their crappy situations."

"Now I have never been part of that part of society, which you might have guessed considering my last name is Jeggare. As such all my knowledge comes from observation. That and reading their minds for practice purposes."

Unaware that there were so many disparaging comments made about him during his trial, Gerontius is a bit taken aback by the latest.

"Both of you sound like such clichés"

Taking a moment to make sure his voice is level, Gerontius responds. "Of course I know that we need the populace, and even one of them possessed the skill to make these resplendent robes, but does that mean I should enjoy their chaotic ways? Why the woman who make this, her and I had agreed upon a fair price. I returned several weeks later only to find that she would not give me the robes until I paid her more than the agreed upon price. She mentioned something about 'Falling on hard times, kids are starving' or some other such drivel. Rested assured I left with the robe at the agreed upon price. Yet later that night I saw that woman, a pot of Old Erebus in her hands. Chaos. They are ruled by chaos, and that I cannot stand.

"You and I may differ, maybe you would like to spend more time with the cows who provided you such supple leather boots, but I for one feel at home here. And a quick bit of friendly advice, you will come to find that your rank is much more important than your surname, Armiger Jeggare."

Gerontius turns back to watch the last of the trails.

"Unfortunately I must find myself in agreement with Gerontius here," Vespartius interjects. "I am sorry to tell you this Thurio, but in my experience and research the vast majority of people in general, commoners no more than nobles, are concerned only with themselves and perhaps their immediate kin. It is our duty, as the few who see the bigger picture, to safeguard civilization from this selfishness, with no regard for the chaotic desires of the masses."

Morvan eyes Gerontius with a hint of respect as he arrives from his battle, and says, "The method by which you defeated the devils was impressive, true, but I feel the buildup was a bit of a waste. I also question the overall effectiveness of your tactic in the field if you are not given the time and space to cast your spells, but I admit I am not given to the arcane persuasions."

"Regarding the common people, I do agree more with Vespartius and Gerontius, Thurio. They do tend to act selfishly in ways which will primarily benefit themselves and their kin. It is why we have laws in order to ensure society remains orderly and does not descend into chaos. Should someone have thoughts and desires that would undo the order we have created, that is why we, the Order of the Gate, do exist to stop such criminals before they can put their plans into action. Would you not agree that is our purpose?"

Tybalt regards Gerontius with detached amusement. "Where I feel at home isn't relevant to me. What I can learn is".

"I certainly don't advocate the Order make it's business to persecute malcontents, but rather use them as a resource. The social web that connects them leads many places. Some of them dark. I can read thoughts, but only so many and only when I know where to look. But you have access to the underbelly, when you're listening to the chatter as it turns dark, secrets can come unlooked-for."

Tybalt sits down, seeming tired for the first time.

"But I don't discount your observations of the common people because you are an outsider to them Armiger Thurio. You're another source of information. Another perspective. As long as your goals remain in concert with the Order and the Empire I am eager to see where your methods lead."

"If you want to talk about rank, at least know it. We all surpassed the rank of armiger upon completion of our tests. As such I am a signifer now." He ignores the comment on family not mattering. In time he'd learn that generous donations to the cause could help fast track one to a higher station.

"I do think you all misunderstood me. I am not saying the common folk are paragons of law and virtue. I'm saying that they are no real threat to order. Most of them are as fond of demonic cultists as any of us and even fewer want the bedlam that is Galt to spread. If treated properly they are an ally, an asset to be used. Treat them badly and you will invite Galt into our homes."

Urashu shifts uncomfortably as the conversation picks up around him. He didn't know people in this depth, they were too transient on his island. He understood patterns, and he knew that there would be a thief, or a cheat, but he had never really interacted with such people. His short time in Cheliax had been spent in training, studying or preparing; it hasn't involved much in the way of social interactions or events.

Is this much tension among the new recruits normal? Is it healthy? I suppose we really will have the same goal, but how it is it going to be accomplished?

Quietly sighing, Gerontius is unhappy with the bantering, but pleased nonetheless that many have spoken to support him.

"If you want to talk about rank, at least know it. We all surpassed the rank of armiger upon completion of our tests. As such I am a signifer now."

"Just because one passed this test does not mean that all are ready to join the ranks, though I do apologize Signifer Thurio if I have offended. I do believe that we may have some minor disagreements here and there, but I am sure that there is much more that you and I, hell, all of us agree upon. We must focus on that. It was never my intention to be a cause of divisiveness."

"The method by which you defeated the devils was impressive, true, but I feel the buildup was a bit of a waste. I also question the overall effectiveness of your tactic in the field if you are not given the time and space to cast your spells, but I admit I am not given to the arcane persuasions."

Pausing for a moment to make sure that he is explaining himself correctly, he responds "Hellknight Morvan, you are entirely correct. My display was gaudy, wastefully even. I could have killed dozens of devils before they even had a chance to touch me. But this was a test, in the Pit. This was not, as you say, in the field. In the field, I can transform into several dozen monstrous or bestial forms. If my unit needs one to scurry up the side of a building, I can transform and climb like the nimblest of monkeys; should we face the perils of the Inner Sea, I can transform into a beast that can glide through the water effortlessly; should we find ourselves deep underground, my beast shapes allows me to see even in the absence of light; and as you have seen when the time arises, I shall stand shoulder to shoulder with my more martial brother and sisters.

"And I have other magicks that I have yet to reveal. Many to aid those such as you." he ends in a smile.

Jathal doesn't say a word, jsut quietly listening.

Prefight Prep: Takes both Bloodchill pill and Potion of Mage Armor beforehand (if allowed) for a final Init +0, Blood Defense of 20 points, and AC 21/Flatfooted AC 19 due to long duration.

Will use the Quibble ability just in case he is the subject of a Dazmen-like Crit. ;)

Pellius awaits his turn at trial, which he knows will be soon.

Gerntius's boasts about his power provoked a raised eyebrow from Tybalt.
"I would be glad to see such things, I'm sure."

"Ah Thurio..." Tybalt leans forward to speak, seemingly quite engaged. "You say the common people are no real threat to order, but without them there would be no chaos in Galt. Their own leaders we're once faces in the crowd, unremarkable until suddenly their skill fit the times. I also would not underestimate the temptation of demonic magic to the desperate and downtrodden. By simple math there are more of them than us, a small number of them are bound to be ambitious and foolish. I don't seek to replicate the incompetent tyranny of Galt before the fall. I believe in a light touch... most of the time. In fact, fundamentally we agree. They are a resource, not to be abused."

Tybalt rubs the back of his neck and stretches his shoulders.

"But they are a threat, as much as they are necessary, they are to be watched as much as they are to be protected. They are not mindless pawns, they are people with desires and ambitions and inner lives, and all of that makes them even more dangerous. Anyone can be a tool, anyone can be a weapon."

Chej: woops, my bad. But since you just killed it I guess it doesn't super matter =P

A final dagger thrust and the devil falls, gurgling a bloody last breath. The Hellknights cheer and pound their chests as a signifer comes out to heal your wounds and escort you to the victors seating. The Vicarius nods at you before calling the next armiger.

Congrats! Level up and bask in the stabbity glow.

Smiling, Morvan said, "As I said, the mystic arts are not where my skills lie. I rely more on my martial training and my faith in Asmodeus for strength. I will believe you when you say your gifts make you capable in the field. After all, no one truly knows how they will react until in that situation."

** spoiler omitted **

Here's the link to the Blood-chilling pill from the Alchemy Manual.

Pellius will move backwards, 30 feet away, from where the Devil stabbed at him while drawing out his MW alchemically silvered sansetsukon to both his hands. Pellius' Move action.

Pellius will then activate his 2nd level vested power of Divine Favor, gaining a +1 Luck bonus to both hit and damage at the cost of one of his investiture points. Pellius' Standard action.

Finally, as a swift action, Pellius activates his Electrical Elemental Fury, which will last the next two rounds, at the cost of one of his Ki points.

Kallant listens to the differing opinions and finally offers, "as long as the people obey the Law, then they can lead their own lives. When they plan to disobey the Law, then it is our duty to enlighten them."

** spoiler omitted **

No prob. :)

When the Devil moves in for another stab, which does hit- but thanks to the alchemical pill, no blood was drawn.

Pellius then suddenly moves in towards that Devil, taking a 5' step and does a Flurry of Blows, adding in his Foot Stomp Style Strike. 5' Step as a no action and the Flurry as a Full Round action.

One of his Flurrys will be just with his Kick (with the Foot Stomp Style Strike) and is subject to the Devil's DR if it connects.

Kick with Foot Stomp: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 1 = 16. Damage, if it hits: 1d8 + 3 + 1 + 1d6 ⇒ (7) + 3 + 1 + (5) = 16. Electric damage=5.

His Second Flurry will be with his Silvered Sansetsukon.

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 9 + 1 = 28. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 5 + 1 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + 5 + 1 + (1) = 10. Electric damage=1.

As a swift action, Pellius will spend another Ki point to do one more extra attack with his foot stomping Kick as part of the Flurry, subject to DR.

Kick with Foot Stomp: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 8 + 1 = 27. Damage, if it hits: 1d8 + 3 + 1 + 1d6 ⇒ (4) + 3 + 1 + (3) = 11. Electric damage=3.

If either of those two kick attacks hits, the Devil must stay adjacent to Pellius until the Devil's next turn or try to break out of the Foot Stomp Style against Pellius' CMD as a standard action.

Note: Edited to add in the +1 Divine Favor effect, my apologies for the inconvenience.

Capitalizing upon the Devil's missed claw attacks, Pellius will utilize his Barroom Brawler feat, as a Move action, to gain the Belier's Bite feat for the duration of the next minute.

Pellius will then make a single attack with his silvered Sansetsukon at the Devil. Pellius' Standard action.

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 ⇒ (6) + 6 = 12.

Elemental Fury expired, Devil free to move normally next round.

Pellius will attempt to use his Stunning Fist next round. ;).

Glancing down at his slashed arm, Pellius opts to activate his Stunning Fist while unleashing yet another Flurry of Blows with the Foot Stomping Style.

Kick with Foot Stomp: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 9 - 2 = 27. Damage, if it hits: 1d8 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 4 - 2 = 5. Bleed: 1d4 - 2 ⇒ (2) - 2 = 0.

Confirming Crit or not: 1d20 + 9 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 9 - 2 = 22. Damage, if it confirms: 1d8 - 2 ⇒ (6) - 2 = 4. All damage with this attack is subject to the Devil's DR.

Devil will need to make a DC 15 13 Fort Save or be Stunned for 1 round.

Pellius quickly follows up with a strike from his silvered Sansetsukon.

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (19) + 10 - 2 = 27. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 6 - 2 = 14.

Confirming Crit or not: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 10 - 2 = 13. Damage, if it confirms: 1d10 - 2 ⇒ (9) - 2 = 7.

Devil will need to make another DC 15 13 Fort Save or be Stunned for 1 round. If already Stunned, then a DC 15 13 Fort Save or be Fatigued for 1 round.

As a Swift action, Pellius will spend another Ki point to get yet a third strike with his Sansetsukon in...

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 10 - 2 = 11. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (10) + 6 - 2 = 14.

Devil will need to make another DC 15 13 Fort Save or be Stunned for 1 round. If already Stunned, then a DC 15 13 Fort Save or be Fatigued for 1 round. Spent 3 out of 5 Stunning Fists.

Edited to account for the Sickness fumble. ;)

Of which, he is able to do just that despite feeling a bit woozy in his head- was it an effect of missing so badly with his last attack or was it the Devil's successful claw strike that did some damage? The Ganzi Monk does not know but he does realize that the feeling of wooziness will not go away...

** spoiler omitted **

No worries, I will adjust things accordingly then with a -2 for the Sickened condition. ;)

** spoiler omitted **

With the Cornugon Stun feat, Pellius could apply his Stunning Fists to his Sansetsukon. The disadvantage would be that the Stunning Fist will run out that much faster. :(

Knowing that the feeling of wooziness has yet to subside, Pellius notes that his Devil foe has just succumbed to his second Stunning Fist attempts.

With time being of the essence before the Stunning Fist effect wears off, Pellius wastes no time in utilizing another Flurry of Blows in the follow-up attack with just his Sansetsukon. As an added measure, Pellius will spend his fourth Ki point to regain his Elemental Fury instead of a third attack. The former is a Full round action, the latter will be a Swift action.

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 10 - 2 = 13. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (1) + 6 - 2 = 5. Electrical Fury: 1d6 ⇒ 1.

And Pellius makes his second attack...

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 10 - 2 = 23. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (5) + 6 - 2 = 9. Electrical Fury: 1d6 ⇒ 4.

Wincing at the Devil's retaliatory strike, Pellius does note, some moments later, that the woozy feeling doesn't increase any further in intensity but it is still present all the same.

Knowing that this will be the last round before his second activation of the Elemental Fury runs out, Pellius goes for yet another Flurry of Blows, only this time activating his final Ki point for a third attack. Full round action on the Flurry plus a final Swift action to gain the extra attack..

Pellius makes his first attack...

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 10 - 2 = 10. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (9) + 6 - 2 = 13. Electrical Fury: 1d6 ⇒ 1.

Pellius makes his second attack...

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 10 - 2 = 15. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 6 - 2 = 10. Electrical Fury: 1d6 ⇒ 6.

Pellius makes his third and final attack...

Sansetsukon: 1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (13) + 10 - 2 = 21. Damage, if it hits: 1d10 + 6 - 2 ⇒ (9) + 6 - 2 = 13. Electrical Fury: 1d6 ⇒ 5.

Edited to input the right Sansetsukon attack values.

** spoiler omitted **

My apologies, had a last minute change in attack values due to a mistake (was a +6 instead of a +10 before the correction); if you want to have those last 3 attacks kept as misses, I'll be fine with that final result (It can be blamed on the sickness effect as an explanation).

No worries. And it looks like that kills the devil!

Sweating and shaking, you finally defeat the devil, its skull cracked and leaking blood as it smokes lightly from the electricity. Hellknights cheer and clap as the nausea leaves your system at the touch of a signifer. You are led over to the victors area after a nod from the Vicarius. The final armiger has been called. The Test is over.

Sounds good to me. :)

Pellius nods once to his Devil Opponent's corpse, gives a respectful bow in response to the Vicarius' nod, then makes his way into an appropriate spot in the victor's area- all the while, making sure to give any and all proper due acknowledgements (mostly non-verbal) to his gathered fellow Test survivors.

Well, we certainly had a high rate of success on the test. I'm pleasantly surprised.

Well, we certainly had a high rate of success on the test. I'm pleasantly surprised.

As am I. There were quite a few deaths last time.

May have helped that most of us prepped specifically for this test, buying items to negate DR (Silver) or Bleed (really wish I had known about the Blood-Chilling Pill - blowing even one of those concentration checks could have killed me).

Chej drops down into the auditorium seat with a loud 'flumph' and from his bag pulls out a bottle of polish and a rag. He goes to work cleaning devil blood off his blade; keeping one eye on the arena and trying to figure out what everyone else was badgering on about.

There are a lot of good characters here. I tried to make a character that could beat the devil but wasn't too overspecialized and didn't spend too much money to get through it. It's was really fun just to do the test and make Tybalt blather about his creepy political philosophy.

Admittedly, I had more of an interest in seeing if a Bearded Devil could be handled by a Monk character but the prep allowance did help out plenty though. ;)

I had a lot of fun making Jathal, even if there was that bit with the one magic item. I always enjoy making AC builds, and making a not-exactly monk in heavy armor desinged to go into the hellknight commander class was fun. Biggest fear of the trial was the bleed and dr, as the build worked around neither.

@Soldier

Thanks for the selection. Looking forward to the game.

What city are we in? Are we at the Motherhouse of the Gate, which I thought was in the mountains.

Kallant doesn't have any Craft or Profession to practice, so I would appreciate a setting for any RP to align us.

thanks

You are currently at Citadel Enferac, the headquarters of the Order of the Gate and the place where you've been training for the last three years. You would now have your own room, and as a Hellknight you will also have free reign for many of the training rooms, workshops, and the armory.

@Soldier

Just checking in. Thanks for the selection. I'll have an RP post up tonight for the intervening 7 days. I did level up but I left my iPad at home so I can't update he statblock at the moment.

I don't have any Craft or Profession either. Fortunately, I have lots of Knowledge skills (for a Warpriest), so I'm going with that as a focus.

Hello all

Thurio does have a craft skill, being Craft (Alchemy) and he will be using it. In addition he'll end up training his skill at arms with the fresh armigers.

He'll also be writing several letters, some to be sent out to his family and others to keep locked away.

Gameplay thread is up. If everybody could post there we'll start soon as I can.

I'm going to give Thurio until the end of today to either post or respond to my pm before I move things along.

I'm guessing we know each other well from training with each other?

I didn't assume that. I figured we knew each other by appearance, but not necessarily have formally greeted one another.

I'm good with whatever.

At the very least you would recognize each other. There's no hard numbers that I could find, but the Gate is supposed to be one of the smaller orders, so I'd say there was probably only 40ish people who became Hellknights. You would know at least superficial details about each other. You all did see each other fight the devil, even if you somehow never saw them beforehand.

Sorry guys but end of semester and figuring stuff out/making arrangements so I can finally get my MSc by the end of October is consuming quite a bit more time and energy than I anticipated.

I'll try my very best to get a post in tomorrow (Sunday)

Alright. Just try and give us a bit of warning in the future.