Korvosa has long stood as the first bastion of civilization on the wild frontier of Varisia. Yet tragedy seems to haunt the city’s royal bloodline. Few of the rulers rule for long, and none have lived to a ripe old age, dying instead well before their time. Heirs to the throne are few and far between- in it’s 300-year history, no king of Korvosa has directly inherited the Crimson Throne from his father. This is the source of much gossip and tale-spinning among the city citizens, who speak of The Curse of The Crimson Throne.
Long has The criminal Gaedran Lamm eluded the authorities of Korvosa. His reach and impact has been great and perverse. Whether by bribery or elusivness he has escaped capture, or worse, again and again. His allies count among the great crime lords of Korvosa. However just maybe his running is at end….just maybe…..
With the city perched on the edge of anarchy, the ailing King Eodred Arabasti IIhas passed away, and his young power hungry Queen, Ileosa is working to seize power of Thr Crimson Throne taking more and more control of governing, things have been going from bad to worse within this once proud city. Easily a 5th of all buildings are abandoned as people flee to better managed cities, such as Maginmar. Hellknight patrols seek swift justice to any who interfere. The Korvosan Guard is hard put to stop organized crime, but makes a good attempt at non-organized variants. The Sczarni smirk in their multicolored tents and gilded wagons on the fringe of the city, at watching the Chelish infidels try and stem the tides of depravity. Hippogriff Riding Marines ply the sky’s over the city in fewer and fewer numbers from what once was, their sight bringing brief hope.
Reveling even more though are the Shoanti barbarians who had the land that was sacred to their people snatched from them by Chelish invaders oh so many years ago. The deeds of the wars between the Chelaxian Explorers and the Shoanti Guardians of The Grand Masataba, upon which Castle Korvosa sits, are filled with wonder and awe for both people’s. But as the power of Korvosa wanes, so to does the flames of desire for righteous vengeance begin to wax. Whisper’s have begun in dark corners.
There is but one beacon of hope to the impoverished people of Korvosa, The Legendary hero ‘Black Jack’ who pioneer’s the cause of the downtrodden, eluding capture and discovery. Some say he is a ghost, some say he is tall tale, some say he is the hope of the city given life.
All that can be said though, whether it is on Endrin Ilse; where Old Korvosa and The Patriarch of The Poor, The Noble Glorio Arkona or by the Self Named King of Spider’s Devargo Bevassi; or in the trimmed estates of South Shore where the womanizing Perishial Kalissreavil, Ambassador of the Elvish Kingdom of Mierani or among the varied clergy of the many turreted Temple of The Many sits; Whether on the heights where the aging Wizard Toff of House Ornelos works as Headmaster to famed wizardy school Acadamae, or in the myriad confined streets of Mainshore where Archbanker Daub Tuttle of Abadar works to stave off the coming storm of anarchy....
All that can be said though, is Korvosa has made it’s mark on the land once ruled by Ancient Thassilonian Runelords and is in the process of either making history or becoming history…in your lifetime. How will you affect the course of Korvosa....
Golarion Calender in Korvosa:
Abadius (Winter)
31 days
*Full Moon ‘Longnight’ (Abadar worshippers defy the long winter days by staying up all night to greet the dawn)
*22nd ‘Crystalhue’ (Winter Solstice. Shelyn Worshippers. Day of Artistic Creation. Also celebrated by proposals and courtship.)
*———‘Ritual of Stardust’ (Summer Solstice. Desna/Varisians- A Night of Song and Merrymaking themed with throwing colored sand and powdered Gems into bonfires. Oaths of Friendships and Love are made.)
Calistril (Winter)
28 days
*2nd ‘Merrymead’ (Commemorates coming Spring with distribution of last of previous season’s alcohol)
*16th ‘King Eodred II’s Birthday’ (<no longer a Holiday>)
*19th ‘Loyalty Day’ (Celebrated by select noble houses allied with Cheliax- commemorates the signing of the Treaty of Egorian and the beginning of The House of Thrune’s Rule in Cheliax)
‘Leap Day’ (added every 8 years for calender accuracy)
Pharast (Spring)
31 days
*5th ‘Day of Bones’ (Pharasma Holy Day marked by a parade of recent dead in a procession to be interned for free)
*6th ‘Sable Company Founding Day’ (Formal celebration with a parade and displays of martial prowess. Somber non-drinking holiday.)
*day of King Eodred's Death
7th----Day of Markus Abberbaugh's Death
8th 'Current Day'
Gozran (Spring)
30 days
*7th ‘Currentseve’ (Gozreh Holy Day marked by sailors and fisherfolk praying for safe passage for the year.)
*15th ‘Taxfest’ (Abadar Holy Day. Clerics accompany Royal Tax Collectors on their rounds and afterwards host a public feast for all citizens)
*22nd ‘Firstbloom’ (Vernal Equinox ‘Gozreh’, celebrates the coming spring with dancing and courting)
Desnus (Spring)
31 days
*Last Sunday of Desnus ‘Breaching Festival’ (Holiday and contest to try and break into the Acadamae)
Sarenith (Summer)
30 days
*3rd ‘Day of Destiny’ (Held to be the day that Emperor Halleck IV of Cheliax signed the Charter that eventually actually became Korvosa. Lots of drinking and toasting)
*10th ‘Burning Blades’ (Saranrae Holy Day. Celebrated with displays of swordsmanship and with Burning Blades.)
*22nd ‘Riverwind Festival’ (Typically the winds shift for a few weeks bringing down cool mountain air from the Mindspin Mountains abating the stifling heat of summer…celebrated with drinking)
Erastus (Summer)
31 days
*14th ‘Founding Festival’ (Celebrating the Founding of The City. The Wildest Parties and festivities occur on the anniversary of it’s founding with Alcohol, Fireworks, Displays of Magical Prowess until the wee hours of the next morn)
*22nd ‘Ritual of Stardust’ (Summer Solstice. Desna/Varisians- A Night of Song and Merrymaking themed with throwing colored sand and powdered Gems into bonfires. Oaths of Friendships and Love are made.)
*——-‘Sunwrought Festival’ (Saranrae worshippers- fireworks, gift giving and a reenactment of Saranrae’s victory over Rovagug)
Arodus (Summer)
31 days
*31st ‘Saint Alika’s Birthday’ (more a time of reflection than an excuse to party. Celebrated with red and white flowers and platefuls of Alikan Oysters.
Rova (Fall)
30 days
*First Wealday (Wed) ‘Crabfest’ (Seasonal Migration of Crabs to the cooler waters of the Jeggare River’s mouth is celebrated with great feasts of Crab.)
*Second Oathday (Thurs) ‘Signing Day’ (Celebrated by select noble houses allied with Cheliax- Marks the day the nations broke from Taldor)
Lamashan (Fall)
31 days
*Second Moonday (Mon) ‘Harvest Fest’ (Celebrates the Harvest and the the end of field work for the year)
*22nd ‘Swallowtail Festival’ (Autumnal Equinox. Desna/Varisians. Storytelling and public release of a wagonfull of butterflies)
Neth (Fall)
30 days
*13th ‘Great Fire Remembrance’ (Somber and Quiet, this holiday shuts down the city. Most people stay at home and by tradition No one lights a fire from dawn on the 13th to dawn on the 14th)
*14th ‘Even-Tongued Day’ (Celebrated by select noble houses allied with Cheliax- celebrates Cheliax’s freedom from Taldor)
Kuthona (Winter)
31 days
*7th ‘Psuedodragon Festival’ (The sky is alive with the meeting of the city bound little dragons with their wild cousins who migrate from the Mindspin Mountains to near by wintering habitats. Much drinking and enjoying the spectacle)
*Second week from Sunday to Starday (Sat) ‘Winter Week’ (Traditional Fest. Courting and spending time with friends.)
*31st ‘Night of the Pale’ (Night of Morbid Revelry as people wait inside for the spirits of last years dead to pass by.) )
Korvosa:
Lawful Neutral Large City
Corruption: -2/Crime:+5/Economy:0/Law:-2/Lore:+4/Society:-2
Qualities: Academic, Insular, Prosperous, Strategic Location, Racial Intolerant- Shoanti/Varisians
Danger: +30
Disadvantages: Anarchy
Population: 18,500
Noteable NPC's
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Dead-King Eodred Arabasti II (Patriarch of House Arabasti)
Queen Ileosa Arabasti
Seneschal Neolandus Kalepopolis
Glorio Arkona (Patriarch of House Arkona)
Volshyenek Ornelos (Patriarch of House Ornelos)
Toff Ornelos (Headmaster of Acadamae)
Daub Tuttle (Archbanker of Abadar)
Valdur Bromathan IV (Patriarch of House Bromathan)
Commandant Marcus Endrin (Sable Company)
Field Marshal Cressida Kroft (Korvosan Guard)
Lictor Severs 'Boneclaw' DiVri (Order of The Nail)
Senior Arbiter Zenobia Zenderholm (Matriarch of House Zenderholm)
Eliasia Leroung (Matriarch of House Leroung/Headmistress of University of Korvosa)
Mercival Jeggare (Curator of Jeggare Museum/Matriarch of House Jeggare)
Amassador Perishial Kalissreavil (Elven Ambassador)
Melyia Arkona (Sister to Glorio Arkona)
Magistrate Lolia Perenne, (Department of Regulation)
Magistrate Garrick Tann, (Department of Commerce)
Magistrate Syl Gar, (Department of Expenditures)
Magistrate Mercer Cuccteni, (Department of Tourism)
Ornher Reebs (High Priest of Asmodeus)
Keppira d'Bear (Bishop of Pharasma)
Lord Gyrad Tolgrith (Leader of Fort Thorn of Bloodsworn Vale)
Mistress of Blades Maidrayne Vox (Order of The Nail)
Paravicar Acillmar (Order of The Nail)
Touran Palastus (Owner of Marbledome)
Vencarlo Orsini (Ex-Korvosan Guard Now runs Acadamy to teach Swordplay)
Sabina Merrin (Bodyguard of Queen Ileosa)
Tepest Geezlebottle (Headmaster at Theumanexus College)
Guildmaster Boule (Cerulean Society)
Devargo Barvassi 'The King of Spiders' (Crimelord of Eel's End)
Gaedren Lamm (Crimelord of Midland)
Thavium Rigulus (Owner of 'The Posh and Turtle')
Thesandra Darklight (Owner of Three Rings Tavern/Leader of Darlkight Sisterhood)
Portenus Gaskelinni (Owns and Runs 'Leftovers' Possible Pathfinder)
Gasta Weagra (Owner of Golden Orrery)
Pilts Swastel (Runs Exemplary Execrables---Porn/Whorehouse)
Tauk Par (Bodyguard/Bouncer at Three Rings Tavern)
Jope Chantsmo (Owner of 'Trappers Hole')
Goupie Capabopple (Royal Clocktender/runs 'Time Stop')
Vadid Pestico (Owner of Pestico's Dolls and Figurines')
Blackjack (Legendary Hero)
Marlessa (Szcarni Woman/Lover of Kynndors Thok)
Kynndors Thok (Leader of Dusters Gang)
Costa Serimus (Owner of 'Bookmaker')
Basha (owner of Basha's)
Samp (Guide to Sewers)
Amin Jalenko (Minor Noble of House Zenderholm)
======================================================================
Solora (Priestess of Sarenae)
Ammi (Bookkeeper Friend)
Bert Runkle (Baker and Ex-Fence)
Nivik Darven (Sczarni man-of-the-streets.
Trayven Pike (Tavern Owner in East Shore-Trayven's Drink Hall)
Karric Fayne, (Jarrin's father & Captain of East Shore Watch House)
Tayce Soldado. (a Varisian Seamstress/Washerwoman that lives in Trails End)
Trinia Sabor, (Performer,Dancer and Singer, Sculptress)
Tobias Siril (Captain of High Bridge Ward Watchhouse)
Marcellano Andros (Arbiter who primarily passes judgement in civil disputes in Korvosa. He is also responsible for making regular trips to the outlying villages surrounding the city to settle their issues as a travelling arbiter)
Nuala Burdon (Works as Caravan Guard/Teamster)
Dana Aronus (Priestess of Shelyn)
Ariana Summersault (13 y/o Orphan)
Cecile Fanguard (clerk in the arbiter's office and is the go to person that handles the legal and administrative paperwork involved in dealing with the problems caused by escaped otyughs)
John Cripteron (Ratcatcher)
Dengaro (Instructor at Orsini's Academy).
Grau Soldado (a Former student at Orsini's and a Former Guardsman Now a drunk).
Solangus Crispin (wizard, professor of anthropology and archaeology at the Acadamae)
Zriorica Valcziescu (witch, fortune teller in the Varisian enclave)
Aula Jeggare (Employee at Bashas)
Dalin Mernathik (cleaning lady ay Jeggare Museum)
Josef Iascu (a Varisian Horse Trader)
Skender the Rat (Szcarni Gang Messenger)
Zova Khen (Priestess of Desna)
Luminita Zriorica (Varisian tattoo artist)
Ghaekan of Skoan-Quah (Shoanti Warrior)
Little Eddie Gin (An Orphan Street Hustler)
Lord Eldon Vulgrax of House Arabasti (Commander of The Gray Wardens)
Iosef Scanscu (Szcarni Fence)
Lady Sherice of House Jeggare
Tremont of House Endrin (Young Naval Officer)
======================================================================
Base Value: 11,200 Gold
Purchase Limit: 75,000 Gold
Items: 9 Minor, 11 Medium, 6 Major available
Spellcasting Limit: 8th
Before The Cities Founding, the site on which Korvosa stands was sacred to the Shoanti, although most have forgotten why. They knew only that the large pyramid atop the hill at the mouth of the river was to be guarded at all costs and that noone was to enter it. For hundreds of years the Shoanti guardians kept this promise.
In 4407 AR Field Marshal Jakthion Korvosa rescued an abandoned group of Chelish marines trapped on a hostile island and founded Fort Korvosa. The settlement acted as a strong defensive position and trading post for settlers, pioneers, trappers and explorers in the area. After much of the settlement burnt during a Shoanti raid (an event known as the Great Fire), an influx of Chelish gold and tradesmen strengthened the settlement’s defenses and allowed its residents to move to the mainland.
An ill-fated insult against a prominent Korvosan noble family sparked the Cousin’s War in 4502 AR. The war ended Korvosa’s role as a military outpost and- with a further influx of Chelish nobility- made the settlement into a true colony. A period of great wealth followed, leading to a steady increase in size.
Korvosa’s prosperity came crashing down in 4606 AR, when the unexpected death of Aroden kicked off a civil war in imperial Cheliax. Cut off from it’s homeland without a word, Korvosa survived these dark times. Today, the city prospers again, thanks to (or in some cases, despite) it’s self-appointed royalty.
Description of The City of Korvosa:
The city of Korvosa wears its Chelaxian heritage proudly on every building, tower, and rooftop. As the oldest human settlement in Varisia (a claim frequently challenged by Kaer Maga), Korvosa considers itself the founding seat of civilization in an otherwise lawless region. Thanks to it and the spread of its people, Varisia has become a relatively safe place to live.
Korvosa sits at the end of Conqueror’s Bay, where the Jeggare River meets the sea. The city fills the spit of land formed by two sharp turns in the river, covers Endrin Isle (which splits the river at its mouth), and spreads to a few outlying areas on the far shore of the Jeggare. It stands on two hills: Garrison Hill on Endrin Isle and Citadel Hill on the mainland. The Narrows of Saint Alika separates Endrin Isle from the shore.
The city is divided into seven districts, many of which are further subdivided into Wards.
East Shore: The only district beyond the channel of the Jeggare River, East Shore is home to a handful of noble houses closely tied to the military of the city, as well as the struggling Theumanexus College. Eastshore has no wards to subdivide it.
Gray: Unlike all other districts in Korvosa, Gray’s residents generally keep to themselves and are well behaved. Of course, most of Gray’s residents are dead. The only living creatures who reside in Gray belong to the church of Pharasma and live within the temple. The separate Wards of Gray District are more to define the type of burial plot available for the dead. Potter’s Ward in the southeast portion of Gray District are where the poor are buried, many in mass graves. Everyman Ward is for the Middle Class and lower upper class, though no noble houses are buried here. It dominates the majority of Gray District. Gold Ward is reserved for nobility as well as the Commandant of Sable Company and The Korvosan Guard’s Field Marshal. Sepulcher ward is reserved for those of religious background. Priests, Oracles, Paladins and the like are interred here.
Heights: Standing atop Citadel Hill, the Heights District has a commanding view of the rest of the city, which its residents look down on—both figuratively and literally. Nearly all of Korvosa’s power players reside in the Heights, including the monarchy. The Heights district is divided into the following wards:
Citadel Crest- by far he wealthiest of the wards within the city. Rent(per month)- House: 300/Apt: 50-200/Studio: 18-70. It is noteworthy to mention that Citadel crest has no Inns, by charter there can only be Bed and Breakfast’s, of which there are 3- Upslope House, The Frisky Unicorn, and Tenna’s. Noteworthy Buildings are The Great Tower (Housing Sable Company and The Hippogriff Riding Marines) and The Temple to Asmodeus.
Cliffside- The ward where the most lesser nobles and wealthy merchants reside. Rent(per month)- House: 140/Apt: 25-100/Studio: 8-35. The extremely expensive Crested Falcon restaurant is located here. Other noteworthy buildings, sites are Gatefoot, Kendall Amphitheater and a section of The Pillar Wall. Also home to The Marbledome; locale of Korvosa’s Opera Company. Finally The Temple to Saranrae is bordering Citadel Crest in this ward.
University- On the Northeastern and eastern slope, this ward is home to museums and students hang outs. Rent(per month)- House: 120/Apt: 25-60/Studio: 8-20. The Jittery Quill (Coffee House/alehouse) and The Wise Dragon Inn are located here, as well as The University of Korvosa. Where Acadamae is for Arcane Studies, UoK is for more mundane learnings. Established and ran by House Jeggare, all are afforded the opportunity here to better themselves.
Midland: When most people think of Korvosa, they think of the cosmopolitan and friendly district of Midland. As the home district of the Korvosan Guard, Midland has the smallest number of gangs and gang battles in the city—although the thieves’ guild does a brisk trade in the district thanks to the disproportionately high number of merchants, shops, and other commercial and financial concerns. Four Wards make up the district:
High Bridge- This ward is primarily made up of fisher folk and those that make their living from the river and the families of both the Korvosan Guard and Sable Company Marines. Rent(per month)- Apt: 7-26/Studio: 3-8/Tenement Flat: 4-13. Most noteworthy is this is the ward that has Citadel Volshyenek on its edge. Eodred’s Square, one of the most used meeting places for those looking to gather islocated in the heart of this ward. The Creaky hammock is it’s best known Tavern and Inn.
Pillar Hill- The Most demographically diverse ward found in the city. Rent(per month)- Apt: 15-35/Studio: 5-12. Every Race and walk of life can be found in the southern reaches of Midland.
Slope- This primarily Mercantile region of Korvosa has The Gold market and Eodred’s Walk, both good sources of shopping and trading. Rent(per month)- House: 100/Apt: 15-60/Studio: 5-20.
West Dock- an area rife with criminal activity, The Dock area has a a large number of warehouses and relies on the shipping trade for it’s work. Rent(per month)- Apt: 6-18/Studio: 2-6/Tenement Flat: 3-9. The only Inn of note is Bailer’s Retreat. Within sight of The Citadel, it is a locale frequented by The Guard.
North Point: The first section of the mainland settled by the descendants of the city’s Chelish founders was Mainshore, at the northwestern tip of mainland Korvosa. That ward houses many of the city’s oldest non-noble families. The greater district of North Point covers the entire northern end of the city and holds Korvosa’s seat of municipal power(City Hall), the city’s courthouse (Longacre Building), and the Bank of Abadar. North Point includes the following wards-
Five Corners- This relatively crowded residential ward houses many of the cities politicians and their underlings. Rent(per month)- Apt: 15-30/Studio: 5-10. The most distinguishable feature is Jeggare Circle, in it’s far northern corner. Jeggare Circle is a meeting place of many roads and is almost always occupied by those who are trying to gain an audience for whatever cause they are behind.
Mainshore- The location of the First Chelish encampment off Endrin Island was here. portions of the old wall can still be seen along its edges. Rent(per month)- House: 100/Apt: 30-50/Studio: 10-18/Tenement Flat: 15-25. Three battles took place in Mainshore and the numerous plaques, statues and memorials are testimony to the memories of the citizens. The Laughing Wave Inn is the wards only Inn, and The infamous Dock Trade is an open market that is frequented by ne’er-do-wells. Also The Shrine to Shelyn can be found here.
Northgate- Usually the first view of Korvosa for visitors as they cross over the Long River Bridge into the city proper. Rent(per month)- House: 60/Apt: 16-45/Studio: 6-15. Many of Korvosa’s non-noble elites and old money families reside here. The Home to City Hall, The Longacre Building (Hall of Justice), and The Bank of Abadar; Northgate is the nerve center of the city. Two Noteworthy Inns are located here- Whitecaps and The Three Rings Tavern.
Ridgefield- Looking across the Straits of Alika at Old Korvosa, Ridgefield has succumbed to poverty itself. With few exceptions (The Posh and Turtle noted), Ridgefield is rich in economic diversity and is a picture ofthe decline found in the city. Rent(per month)- Apt: 6-45/Studio: 2-15/Tenement Flat: 3-23. The Posh and Turtle is a well heeled establishment in the shadows of The Great Tower, at the end of The Avenue of Arms (road lined with the upraised ‘sculptures’? of human arms protruding from the ground), that has a great view of the cliffs and Conquerors Bay. The unique shaft running down to the Lair of The Giant Sea Turtle’s Lair beneath the Inn allows the sounds of the surf to resonate within its walls.
Old Korvosa: As its name implies, Old Korvosa is old. It covers all of Endrin Isle, most of which is covered by Garrison Hill. Atop Garrison Hill stands the stone wall of Fort Korvosa, while the imposing blackmarble Palace Arkona dominates the northwest corner of the island.
Bridgefront- Running the width of Endrin Island, this ward has a number of homemade bridges crossing over to the mainland. Rent(per month)- Apt: 1-3/Studio: .4-1/Tenement Flat: .5-1.5 When they ran out of room to build homes, they went up and so Bridgefront (as pictured above) is a ramshackle collection of makeshift lean-tos and structures. Bridgefront only runs inland 3 blocks, but those three blocks house 80% of the poor of the City The only Building of note is The Aging and nearly abandoned Temple of Aroden.
Fort Korvosa- Dominated by The Palace Arkona, home to the wealthy House of Arkona, is also the location of The Endrin Military Academy. Rent(per month)- None. Old City Hall is here, and is reputed to be one of the places used by The Cerulean Guild (Korvosa’s Thieves Guild) to run their enterprise. Also located here is The Orsini Academy, noted for teaching swordsmanship.
Garrison Hill- Crammed into the a narrow confines between Fort Korvosa and Bridgefront, Garrison Hill looks like a maze of tiers running from the Straits upwards towards the walls of Fort Kovosa. Rent(per month)- Apt: 8-16/Studio: 2-4/Tenement Flat: 4-8. The most noted building in Garrison Hill is the huge foundry called The Ironworks. Dwarven Smiths from Janderhoff work to keep the city in weapons, tools and armor.
Old Dock- The Eastern end of Endrin Island is a poverty sticken den of iniquity. Rent(per month)- Apt: 2-9/Studio: 1.5-3/Tenement Flat: 1-4. Another Dwarven Smithy, called Copper Beater Hall is located here, and is the almost the only legal enterprise located in Old Dock. Two Inns Jegarres Jug (called Jeggy’s Jug) and The Sticky Mermaid are located here…but by and large the most noted place in Old Dock is Eel’s End, where the self proclaimed Crimelord of Korvosa, Devargo Barvasi aka The King of Spiders, makes his home at the end of a dock where 5 vessels are tied off; each providing for a different vice.
South Shore: The newest district, South Shore became a part of Korvosa only a quarter-century ago. Rent(per month)- House: 60/Apt: 10-40. It contains the Pantheon of Many, a massive temple dedicated to most of Avistan’s most popular deities. South Shore’s population consists mainly of the city’s nouveau riche hoping to escape the cramped conditions found elsewhere in the city. Also found here is the newly acquired Green Market, an open market built where a Shoanti Shamen who preached peace was stuck down.
In addition to the Wards and sub-districts, there are several places that are not part of the Ward system.
The Acadamae: Although it stands within Citadel Crest District of The Heights, The Acadamae does not fall under the wards jurisdiction. The Acadamae is an Arcane University of far reaching reputation. The Current Headmaster is Toff Ornelos of House Ornelos, a somewhat meek and timidly Wizard for all of his vast power. He is reputed to be an Archmage, which is noteworthy even for his timidity. The Acadamae has sub colleges for each of the schools of Magic, even the generally outlawed Necromancy. However, Conjuration seems to be the school that the university is known for more than any others.
Castle Korvosa & The Grand Mastaba: Also in Citadel Crest is a Huge Pyramid of Black Marble that sits atop one of the hills that Korvosa occupies. This pyramid is considered a holy site for the Shoanti, and in the early years Wars for fought because of Cheliax trying to occupy the land here. Called The Grand Mastaba by The Shoanti, though it predates their civilization by thousands of years, this flat topped Pyramid with smooth exterior faces is noticeable from any vantage point in the city. Early Chelish explorers damaged the southern corner and now it is a mass of rubble. A Ramp has been built up the South West Face to were the imposing Castle Korvosa rests atop the Grand Mastaba. It is here that King Eodred II and his child bride Ileosa reside and govern over Korvosa. Rumors abound surrounding what can be found in the depths of the Grand Mastaba. Castle Korvosa was made of the same Black Marble, so Aesthetically it almost looks like they are part and parcel of the same structure, though skilled engineers and masons know this is not the case.
High atop Castle Korvosa is a Clock Tower and the impressive Seawatch Tower. The Castle and its protection falls to The Korvosan Guard.
The Great Tower Standing 270 feet tall, This tower sits on the northwest corner of New Korvosa, overlooking Conquerors Bay. The Tower’s Massive Granite Walls, faced with an inch of Black marble and an intervening sheet of lead afford a great degreeof protection and privacy for Sable Company and their Hippogriff’s
Citadel Volshyenek sits on the waters edge of where The Jeggare River enters Conquerors Bay on The Eastern side of Korvosa. Home to The Korvosan Guard.
Finally There are two enclaves on the Eastern Shore out of the city walls.
Trails End, North of Northbridge, which is an enclave made up of primarily Shoanti, and a handful of Kellid Barbarians, and Ulfen Northmen and Thieves Camp Just outside the northgate of East Shore which is a Varisian Enclave.
Handout #1 Courier's Scroll in Gaedrens:
Gaedren, I thank you for taking care of this unfortunate incident and trust in your discretion. In return, as always, we will keep you safe from prying eyes. I trust the stipend is enough to insure our mutual agreement continues.
S.M.
The Noble Families of Korvosa:
1. House Arabasti. The winner of The Cousins War, they took the Throne of Korvosa by Force. For a long time, The Arabasti's sought to stay under the influence of Cheliax, trying to curry favor with the old Empire. King Eodred II however, has distanced The City from its homeland and sought to establish Korvosa as it's own city state. House Arabasti lured the Hellknights, The Order of The Nail north, by funding the building of Citadel Vraid, half a days walk south west of the city. with the passing of The Patriarch of House Arabasti, King Eodred Arabasti II, Queen Ileosa of Cheliax is his queen, and successor to The Arabasti house by marriage. The King had no known heirs, though he was a renowned womanizer. House Arabasti resides in Castle Korvosa. It is one of the original Dock Families.
2. House Arkona. After the Cousins War, House Arkona had been nigh unto Bankrupt. Siding with House Arabasti had been costly and they had lost much of their holdings. In desperation They took a loan from House Jeggare and took a huge gamble on buying a few ships, the Flagship had been aptly named The Reprieve, and sailing to Vudra on the Northern Coast of Garund, the southern Continent. They had returned with spices, exotic goods and the beginning of a trade route that launched them into one of the top 3 wealthiest families in Korvosa. House Arkona has embraced the Vudran Culture and provide endless assistance to the impoverished people of Korvosa. Glorio is called The Patriarch of The Poor. The Patriarch of House Arkona is Glorio Arkona, a middle aged man of good looks and charm. He has not taken a wife, and as such has no heirs. It is reputed he has an illicit relationship with his sister Melyia Arkona, who is second in line for House Arkona's power. House Arkona resides in The Arkona Palace on Endrin Isle in Old Korovosa. They are one of the Original Dock Families and on the Peerage Review.
3. House Jeggare. The wealthiest family in Korvosa, House Jeggare controls easily 25% of all land holdings within the city. They are the chief financial backer of both The Korvosan Guard and Sable Company. A sensible and practical house, they are liked and respected but not revered by the people. The Matriarch of House Jeggare is Mercival Jeggare. They are among the original Dock Families and on The Peerage review. They are allied with the Church of Shelyn.
4. House Ornelos. The single most powerful family in Korvosa and run Acadamae, The most respected School of Magic in the west. They stay out of day to day politics and try to remain neutral in disputes. The Patriarch is The Undying Lord Volshyeneck Ornelos, who has been around for a century at least. One of the original Dock Families and on the Peerage Review.
5. House Leroung. An old family in Cheliax, they have very old connections and ties throughout the Old Empire. They control The University of Korvosa. They are considered allied with almost every Noble House and try to steer clear of petty arguments instead looking to maintain law. The Matriarch is Eliasia Leroung. They are allied with The Church of Abadar. One of the original dock families and a member of The Peerage Review.
6. House Zenderholm. A House not recognized in far off Cheliax, yet none-the-less a powerful family in their own right. The family looks out for the future of Korvosa like no other and have been instrumental in severing ties with Cheliax. The Matriarch is Senior Arbiter Zenobia Zenderholm, who some say is more fond of ladies than men. A Member of The Peerage review.
7. House Bromathan. Allied with the Temple of Saranrae, This house truly has the interest of the people in the forefront of their minds. A Minor house that was one of the original Dock Families, but not important enough to be on The Peerage review. The Patriarch is Lord Valdur Bromathan IV, a minor priest of Saranrae. Stable and steady in both the worst and best of times.
8. House Endrin. All but taken over by House Jeggare because of a marriage in the early years of Korvosa. House Endrin is a one of the original Dock Families, and a long standing history of military service. The Patriarch of House Endrin is Lord Ponchus III.
9. House Porphyria. The Exiled House. During the Cousins War, House Porphyria was on one side, House Arabasti the other. All the minor houses that House Porphyria had allied with were summarily destroyed. Only this old family house of Cheliax managed to survived, though all of their holdings were seized by House Arabasti. General Uril Krakon of House Porphyria, In Cheliax, has eyes on Korvosa however.
Cedric (Varisian)
Traits- Missing Child (Son or Daughter), Fast Talker
1. Profession- 'Exterminator' or Ratcatcher/Profession- Trapper, K Local, K-Dungeoneering.
2. Languages- Common (Chelaxian), Varisian
Cedric- Studio Flat In Ridefield Ward of Northpoint District. Cost: 2 Gold/Month. Cost of Living: 12 Gold. a month. Works as a Ratcatcher (Vermin Disposal) Making average 28 Gold a month. Gets jobs at The Local Guardposts and The Longacre Building.
Ellismus- Studio Flat in Slope Ward of Midland District. Cost: 5 Gold/month Cost of Living: 15 Gold/month. Works at Basha's in Eodred's Walk as a Librarian/Cashier/Book Repair/Scribe. Average Income 28 Gold a month
Ashimar- Studio Flat in Ridgefield Ward of Northpoint District
Cost: 2 Gold/Month Middle class cost of living: 12 Gold a Month total. (Average) works as a Barrister in The Longacre Building- making average 36 gold a month
Akrem'dar- Tenement Flat In East Shore. Cost: 1 Gold a month Cost of Living 11 Gold a Month Works as a Tatoo Artist out of the various Inns in the city. Makes on Average 20 Gold/Month,
Jarrin- Studio Flat In East Shore. Cost: 2 Gold/Month Works as a Fortune Teller out of the various Inns and Taverns of the City. Cost of Living 12 Gold a month. Makes an Average of 24 Gold a month.
Torenn- Lives out of the Temple of Saranrae In Citadel Crest Ward of The Heights District. Works for the temple. Makes 10 Gold a month. cost of living is 3 Gold a month.
Contacts/Tolenn:
1. Solora , Priestess of Sarenae Mentor (Helpful)
Having plucked Tolenn from the streets, Solora has kept in touch with Tolenn as she made her way through her training. Her heart is gladdened by Tolenn's return to Korvosa, however she knows
her foundling has a great task ahead of her. Korvosa hides many evil secrets, Gaedren Lamm being the least.
2. Ammi, Bookkeeper Friend (Friendly)
Having run with Ammi for many years under Lamm's yoke, Tolenn and Ammi always looked out for each other. That is why when Solora took Tolenn from the streets, Tolenn asked that she do the same for Ammi.
Solora rescued Ammi from Lamm's clutches ( along with all of the other children at the time) and had her educated : letters, history all subjects expected of a well-bred young woman of Korvosa. Having a talent for numbers and an independent streak, Ammi set out on her own after her 16th birthday. Convincing an apothecary in Midland to take her on, Ammi had been tending his books for 2 years when he took on a new apprentice who was to become Ammi's husband. They now run an apothecary of their own in South Shore.
3. Bert Runkle, Baker/Fence Acquaintance (Friendly)
Bert was a baker, but is also a fence. A gentle man, he was always kind to Lamm's orphans; buying their midden heap trash and giving out sweets. Tolenn still has a place in her heart for Bert, who still operates a well respected bakery in Old Korvosa.
Tolenn hopes Bert is doing well; she still occasionally has cravings for his sweet sticky rolls.
4. Lord Valdur Bromathan IV, Patriarch of House Bromathan and Priest of Saranrae. (Friendly) You've met him once in the company of your Mentor. Good Terms.
5. Bishop Keppira d'Bear High Priest of Pharasma. (Friendly) You Met him once as well when you came to Gray Ward for training vs Undead. You occasionally work with Pharasman Priests on Patrol in Gray Ward.
Contacts/Jarrin:
1. Nivik Darven, Sczarni man-of-the-streets. (Helpful) Jarrin once talked the knave out of a bad situation and in repayment for that he uses Nivik as his ear to the streets for anything related to Lamm.
2. Trayven Pike, former Varisian performer and current innkeeper (Friendly) Another ear for Jarrin and also a childhood friend. Jarrin rents a small room here and occasionally helps Pike out when non-violent trouble comes around.
3. Karric Fayne, father (Helpful): The elder Fayne has been seen in the city much more often after word of the tragedy reached his ears. While he never stays long, Karric does try to help with things that can’t be discovered from within the city. Now Watch Captain of East Shore Watch House.
4. Tayce Soldado. She is a Varisian Seamstress/Washerwoman that lives in Trails End (Friendly). Her Husband was a Varisian Guardsman who died. Her and her three kids live a meager life in Trails End, and they are 'taken' care of by The local Varisians and Sczarni, who make sure she has work....You met her once with your Szcarni contact and left on good terms
5. Trinia Sabor, a Fellow Performer, besides dancing and singing shes a pretty good sculptress (Friendly). Rumor has it she got royal recognition for some work and is her fate is on the upswing. You met her working a tavern once. you were on good terms at the eves end.
6. Iosef Scanscu Szcarni Fence (Indiferent)
Contacts/Ashimar:
1. Tobias Siril - Ashimar's father (Friendly). He's had a long career as part of the Korvosan Guard. He is nearing the end of his tenure and getting ready to enjoy his golden years.
2. Marcellano Andros - Human, Chelaxian (Helfpul). Ashimar's Mentor. Marcellano is an arbiter who primarily passes judgement in civil disputes in Korvosa. He is also responsible for making regular trips to the outlying villages surrounding the city to settle their issues as a travelling arbiter. More details outlined in 'personality glimpse - age 19 write-up.
3. Nuala Burdon - Childhood peer/rival (Indifferent). I see this one as more of a strained contact. Nuala is likely rough around the edges and hanging with some not so nice elements given her childhood attitude. Ashimar would be hesitant to use her but her philosophy on seeing 'the good in everything' as she matured would make her want to try and mend fences and/or redeem Nuala.
4. Dana Aronus Priestess of Shelyn (Helpful). A senior Priestess in the Temple, she has been someone you go to frequently for advice and guidance. you are on good terms with her.
5. Zenobia Zenderholm , Matriarch of The Zenderholm House and Senior Arbiter (Friendly). Known as The Hanging Judge for her no nonsense approach to the law. You respect her, but are a little daunted by her. She knows you, but you know she would never bend the law for you. However within the law, she would listen to anythging you had to say.
6. Lady Sherice of House Jeggare (Indifferent)
7. Tremont of House Endrin The young Naval Officer (Indifferent)
Contacts/Cedric:
1. Ariana Summersault (13 y/o) (Friendly) 2-3 years ago ariana family has been killed during an otyugh escape. When cedric found her she was the sole survivor. The city official placed her in an orphanage but cedric came to visit often in the beginning. Not only did he feel for the lone child but he also took a liking to her. He even help finance her tuition and school's expense. Fortunately ariana was a bright mind and even though she always complain about the orphanage she considered herself lucky. It has been a few years since they have know each other and more often then not he thanks the gods for giving him a purpose in his immediate life.
2. Cecile Fanguard is a clerk in the arbiter's office and is the go to person that handles the legal and administrative paperwork involved in dealing with the problems caused by escaped otyughs (Helpful). For some reason when cedric's boss sends him to take care of the paperwork it always goes smoothly, while not so much with any one else.
3. John Cripteron is now Cedric's partner as an otyughs enforcer. (Helpful) Cedric found the old teenager about a year ago in a pool of his own blood in a shady alley. Left for dead cedric managed to save his life. Nursing him back to health the only thing john told him was that he used to be called Stickyfinger and that he was part of underground thief gang, called The Drudgespades. He had wanted to leave and that was how he ended up in that alley stabbed. His old accomplice thinking that john was dead he was able to resume his goal of making an honest living, and so cedric helped him to get an interview.
4. Dengaro (Friendly). Hes a drinking buddy of your's He works as an Instructor at Orsini's Academy. An Academy showing the finer arts of swordplay. He's been telling you for years to join and let him and Orsini make a better swordsman of you, but you have declined up to this point (its besides the point its expensive ;) )
5. Grau Soldando (Indifferent), a Former student at Orsini's and a Former Guardsman Now a drunk. Ocassionally he joins you and Dengaro, though it always ends up in a disagreement with how hes waisting his life.
Contacts/Ellismus:
1. Solangus Crispin, wizard, professor of anthropology and archaeology at the Acadamae (Friendly). Mentor and friend. Tracked down the eyewitness of the crime Ellismus was accused of, discovering the truth. The later death of the witness made it impossible to corroborate but also caused the charges to be dropped. Introduced him to a Varisian witch, known from his days where he would imbed himself in a different culture for research.
2. Zriorica Valcziescu , witch, fortune teller in the Varisian enclave, mentor and friend (Helpful). Helped him complete his magical training.
3. Aula Jeggare, fellow employee at Bashas (Friendly). They would chat whenever he visited bookstore (which seemed quite often). After the incident after having been forced to drop out of the Acadamae and being kicked out of the family home, she put in a good word with Bash a, allowing him to get the job.
4. Dalin Mernathik (Friendly) Works at The Jeggare Museum as a cleaning lady. Long time friend.
5. Josef Iascu, a Varisian Horse Trader. Works out of Thieves Camp. Friends with Zriorica. (Friendly)
Contacts/Akrem'dar:
1. Skender the Rat- Szcarni Gang Messenger (Indifferent) (Male)
2. Zova Khen - Priestess of Desna & hidden friend to Shoanti (Helfpul) (woman)
3. Luminita Zriorica - Varisian tattoo artist (Friendly) (woman)
4. Ghaekan of Skoan-Quah- Shoanti Warrior who has befriended Akrem (Friendly).
5. Little Eddie Gin- An Orphan Street Hustler who has a speech impediment but always seems to have good information (Helfpul). An Escaped Lamb of Lamm
Potions/Alchemical Items Id'd:
Acid {Clear Liquid/Burning Acidic Smell)
Cure Light Wounds (Creamy White Potion/smells of Milk)
Endure Elements (Gray and Red banded Potion/smells of Dirt and Sulphur)
Keen Edge (Silver and Gray Mottled liquid/Smells Oily)
Silversheen (Silvery liquid/No Smell)
Tanglefoot Bag (fist sized bags that smell's earthy)
Thunderstone (brittle stone that smells of sulphur)
List of Factions/those with interests in Korvosa:
1. House Arabasti. Interest- Power, Trade
-Queen Ileosa Arabasti
*Sabina Merrin (Bodyguard of Queen Ileosa)
*Lord Eldon Vulgrax of House Arabasti (Commander of The Gray Wardens)
2. House Arkona. Interest- Commerce, Privacy
-Glorio Arkona (Patriarch of House Arkona)
*Melyia Arkona (Sister to Glorio Arkona)
3. House Jeggare. Interest- Exploration, Knowledge
-Mercival Jeggare (Curator of Jeggare Museum/Matriarch of House Jeggare)
*Aula Jeggare (Employee at Bashas)
*Lady Sherice of House Jeggare
4. House Ornelos. Interest- Magic, Learning
-Volshyenek Ornelos (Patriarch of House Ornelos)
*Toff Ornelos (Headmaster of Acadamae)
*Gasta Weagra (Owner of Golden Orrery)
5. House Leroung. Interest- Knowledge, History
-Eliasia Leroung (Matriarch of House Leroung/Headmistress of University of Korvosa)
6. House Zenderholm. Interest- Law, Tradition
-Senior Arbiter Zenobia Zenderholm (Matriarch of House Zenderholm)
*Amin Jalenko (Minor Noble)
7. House Bromathan. Interest- Goodness, Justice
-Valdur Bromathan IV (Patriarch of House Bromathan)
8. House Endrin.- Military, Defense
*Seneschal Neolandus Kalepopolis
*Tremont of House Endrin (Young Naval Officer)
9. House Porphyria.- Power, Tradition
10. Temple of Abadar- Commerce, Law
-Daub Tuttle (Archbanker of Abadar)
11. Temple of Pharasma- Defense, Tradition
-Keppira d'Bear (Bishop of Pharasma)
12. Temple of Shelyn- The Arts, Goodness
-Dana Aronus (Priestess of Shelyn)
13. Temple of Asmodeus- Power, Tradition
-Ornher Reebs (High Priest of Asmodeus)
14. Temple of Saranrae- Goodness, Law
*^Valdur Bromathan IV (Patriarch of House Bromathan)
*Solora (Priestess of Sarenae)
15. Priests of Zon Kuthon- Power, Magic
16. Priests of Urgathoa- Tradition, Privacy
17. Order of The Nail- Law, Order
-Lictor Severs 'Boneclaw' DiVri (Order of The Nail)
*Mistress of Blades Maidrayne Vox (Order of The Nail)
*Paravicar Acillmar (Order of The Nail)
18. Sable Company- Defense, Goodness
-Commandant Marcus Endrin (Sable Company)
19. Korovsan Guard- Military, Law
-Field Marshal Cressida Kroft (Korvosan Guard)
*Lord Gyrad Tolgrith (Leader of Fort Thorn of Bloodsworn Vale)
*Karric Fayne, (Jarrin's father & Captain of East Shore Watch House)
*Tobias Siril (Captain of High Bridge Ward Watchhouse)
20. Gray Maidens- Defense, Power
-^Sabina Merrin (Bodyguard of Queen Ileosa)
21. Gray Wardens- Military, Power
_^Lord Eldon Vulgrax of House Arabasti (Commander of The Gray Wardens)
22. Cerulean Society- Privacy, Tradition
-Guildmaster Boule (Cerulean Society)
23. Darklight Sisters- Knowledge, Defense
-Thesandra Darklight (Owner of Three Rings Tavern/Leader of Darlkight Sisterhood)
*Tauk Par (Bodyguard/Bouncer at Three Rings Tavern)
24. Pathfinders- Knowledge, Exploration
25. Cheliax- Power, Control
26. Janderhoff- Commerce, Tradition
27. Kaer Maga- Magic, History
28. Elvish Enclave- Commerce, Magic
-Amassador Perishial Kalissreavil (Elven Ambassador)
29. The Sczarni- Tradition, Privacy
*Marlessa (Szcarni Woman/Lover of Kynndors Thok)
*Kynndors Thok (Leader of Dusters Gang)
*Nivik Darven (Sczarni man-of-the-streets.)
*Skender the Rat (Szcarni Gang Messenger)
*Iosef Scanscu (Szcarni Fence)
30. The Lyrune-Quah (Shoanti)- Tradition, Knowledge
31. The Sklar-Quah (Shoanti)- Military, Defense
32. The Skoan-Quah (Shoanti)- Tradition, Defense
*Ghaekan of Skoan-Quah (Shoanti Warrior)
33. The Red Mantis- Privacy, Tradition
34. Abken- Defense, Commerce
35. Biston- Trade, Privacy
36. Baslwief- Commerce, Trade
37. Harse- Trade, Defense
38. Melfish- Tradition, Knowledge
39. Palins Cove- Military, Commerce
40. Sirathu- Privacy, Defense
41. Veldraine- Defense, Military
People Met:
Mikey 1st Rogue Member of Drudgespades and Sellsword. Friendly
Jeremy 2nd Warrior 'Skullkicker' High Bridge Watchhouse Sergeant Unfriendly
Trakel 1st Warrior 'Skullkicker' High Bridge Watchhouse Guard Indifferent
Amin Jalenko 3rd Aristocrat House Zenderholm Friendly
Whats been encountered (indicates not overcome):
6 1st Human Rogues, Yargin 2nd Human Alchemist, Giggles 2nd Level Half Orc Fighter, Bloo Bull Mastiff, Avoided a Fight with the Lambs, Hookshanks Grueller 2nd Gnome Rogue, (Jigsaw Shark), Gaedren Lamm 4th/2nd Human Expert/Rogue, 5 Pye Dogs (Pit Fighting Dogs),
A) The person will list the item he is trying to sell.
B) Who he is trying to sell it to.
B1) If he doesnt have a 'name' that will buy it he will list the contract he is using to find a person to purchase it.
B1a) I will post as the contact and tell you what skill you need to roll against to find an appropriate buyer. The contact will provide a modifier to that roll, depending on the contact you choose.
C) You will have a 'post' meet with the buyer...where you will 'present' your item and make an appropriate skill check you are trying to use to sell it. Could be diplomacy, could be history could be knowledge could be profession...Ill let you be the judge what skill is useful here. One roll only though.
D) Based off what I know about your character, what I know of the buyer, your post, and your skill check this will elicit a cash return of 75%-125% face value as listed.
E) If you dont like the response. You can decline the offer. However the result of this is the contact shifts 1 column down on how he views you...as he set up the meet. and the buyer wuill likely not offer to buy any of your goods anymore and you will have to wait 24 hours to try again.
Now you can ALWAYS sell it at one of the listed shops on the map for 80% of the face value without contacts and without rolls.
Thats your failsafe.
This is the opportunity though to get more and establish a network to liquidate items.
As you find buyers they are in your contact info and depending on how things go, they may begin to regularly buy things at higher values.
how I'll be doing combat.:
Because This is one of the biggest slow down in a PBP format, I will be doing everything possible to speed things up. This means Ill be putting normally closely guarded dm information out there right off the bat so things move smoothly. In addition to that, You will be rolling some of my dice and I will be rolling some of your dice.
When an encounter happens all will roll initiative. I will roll once for each major bad guy on the enemies side and once for blocks of mooks that share common statistics. This will especially be important in the latter part of the game when the party will be facing at times literally hundreds of Kobolds at a shot.
I will then arrange initiative like this- Whichever side had the higher initiative among all of its members then the opposing side.
I will post the enemies stats as such.
Name AC Touch FF HP FO- RE- WL-
Special- Defenses.
for each combat so it makes it easy for you to know what to roll.
Consider it as if the group has a tactical leader who starts barking out orders and everyone responds. This means it will reward the party with a member who has a very high initiative roll, but it could also work against you if theres a bad guy with the same. In the end I think it will balance out.
I will have combat maps
When players post their action, I ask you do it like this...
Fluff post
5 foot step. move action go to A10. Cast spell Ray of enfeeblement
dice roll attack. dice roll damage
If there is a save then roll the opponents save. Ability checks roll them.
I will do the same.
You may edit to place a fluff post after the crunch
I will Work hard to post at least once a day, and sometimes twice. I ask all of you to do the same.
Should a player not post for 24 hours, in combat only, I will npc the character to move it along. I will not use any of the characters special abilities or spells or consumables with the exception of healing if it is needed. I will use the simplest form of attack (o level spell, ranged, melee) that makes sense at the time. So please dont miss your action. Exception: If a player is going to be absent and tells me what they want to do, I will make sure I do that.
what to do with problems- ie forgotten abilities spells etc...NO Backtracking However we continue and do ad hoc modifiers from that point on to bring things up to snuff. 2 examples-
DM I forgot to add the +1 for bless to the attack, I would have hit.- answer: You automatically hit next round. But that monster only had 2 Hit points left and I would have killed him from the plusses alone. and it wouldnt have hit Joe....
Right- Joe's damage turns out to be nonlethal and is subdual only, and the monster stumbles allowing your team to shift initiative and get attacks in now.
Example 2- DM I channeled to save everyone and forgot I had no more channels left- No worries your Diety gave you a freeby. do it again and it will turn out to cause damage ;)
in other words i WILL WORK TO MAKE THINGS RIGHT, WITHOUT BACKTRACKING.
game play:
Once again I will be posting once or twice a day, depending on whats going on. Should an emergency come up I will find the time to notify you. I ask you do the same. I realize that some times during gameplay a player reads the threads and says to their self..There's nothing for me to 'say' and does not post.
A DM sometimes wonders if all the players read what was posted so they don't move things along without getting confirmation from the group thats what they want. Also a DM wants to allow players the opportunity to search and research the fluff. Its a tricky balance.
Because of that I will be using OOC a lot to let you know what I need to move things along. Please read it.
How Ill do traps (and there are a lot of them)- IF The Party Rogue (or a character with Trapfinding) is in front I will make perception checks at every juncture where a trap is present as the party moves through the dungeon. If its an alternative character I will NOT make passive perception checks. If the type of trap is evident, success will tell you what it is. If the type of trap is not evident, I will merely say what you see and that the hairs on the back of your neck are standing up.
Along with that- I will make passive perception checks if the module asks for it for players who may be able to notice things. However most things will require you to say "I search" or "I look". Please dont say "I search the room."
Be specific. I search around the corner to my right. I search the urn. etc...
House Rule #1: Coup De Grace:
Ive never liked characters who are asleep being able to be slain outright by a DM. I developed this modification to the Coupe De Grace Rule. A Helpless Character; NPC, Monster or Player, can have a coupe de grace performed on them. This is an automatic hit That puts a character Below 0 hit points by whatever the strength modifier of the character is. This is a full round action, and may result with death. But may just leave the character hovering near deaths door with a chance to recover. To me this is more cinematic and doesnt have character's being slain for falling unconscious to a spell. Only 1 Coup de Grace may be performed on a character. It takes a Heal Check at DC 25 to ascertain the character is not dead.
House Rule #2: Potions:
Potions do not detect under Detect magic, as they are Alchemical. Nor do Alchemical created items. Each potion requires a formulae to create. When a character takes 'Craft Potions' Its like he had a Bachelors Degree in Alchemy A Masters would be to take Craft: Alchemy as well. ;) Each potion has a certain look and odor. These never change. Once you id a potion I will put it under the Potions ID'd spoiler on this page. From then on you automatically ID that potion when you run into it. To ID a potion- Craft Alchemy, Spellcraft, or trial and error can work ;)
