A storm over Tethyr (Inactive)

Game Master JohnLocke

"Speaking of the bandits, we did discover that the bandits who attacked Tilver's Folly were mercenaries, hired by either Jessilyn, a Priestess of the Lady of Pain, or a mage called Profidius, with the deliberate intention of breaking into Lassathor's vault... hmm, where did I put that letter.."

Swiftly checking her numerous pockets, Janiries eventually pulls out a piece of parchment and reads from it.

"Fools!

Profidius"

"Now, I don't know if either of them died at Tilver's Folly, if they triggered the burst of undead activity deliberately, or just as an accidental consequence of breaking into Lassathor's tomb, but it certainly gives us something to look into."

"Aye, they're the type who don't give a whit about the damage they do, so long as they get their little ascension. Likely only way to reason with 'em is with a nice, wide, hewing motion, right about neck level."

That is most useful, Lady Janiries, thank you. Bertram smiles as he relieves you of the letter, reviewing it's contents before passing it to Aidan. Anise rolls her eyes, then shakes her head. I've been blaming these fools for their poor performance, but Aidan, responsibility for this failure really falls upon you for encouraging their recruitment in the first place. Why didn't we send our own people on these tasks?

Aidan's face darkens a bit. Firstly, I do agree that they faced opposition well beyond what was expected - and I mourn for each life lost. But adventuring groups have often been the means by which darkness has been cast down; I hoped for, and still believe, that these adventurers can achieve great things. Not just for the church, and our influence, Anise flinched at that blow! but for the common people, whom we are sworn - bound by oath and faith - to protect. We will have influence enough, amongst the people and the rulers, when they recognize that the presence of the church means safety and guardianship for all! Groups like these adventurers, sponsored by the church, can do more good than some sort of centralized effort, with us pulling every string.

You are deluded - that drink you take to keep your arm from falling off must have found it's way into that adled mind of yours. If we recruit adventuring groups like this, and they fail spectacularily, who will be blamed? We will! And the cost will be borne by the people, as well as the church - for who will trust us, if they know all we will do is send packs of underskilled fools when real help - leadership and trained guardians - are needed? Anise answers, her voice dropping in tone as she looks at the assembled adventurers, shaking her head as she does so.

And when we succeed who will gain the credit for hiring us? You will. Just the same as if you had ventured to Tilver's Folly yourself.

Hezar answers quiety.

Belgrin finishes a mouthful of wine and slams his cup on the table, relatively gently, but enough to grab attention. He then eyes Anise directly, unflinchingly, with a look of absolute disdain. "If ye got time to pout and point fingers, lass, ye got plenty of time to do somethin' about it. Lassathor's comin, and he's not of a mind to sip wine while ye throw tantrums about yer 'station.' I'd rather be out there hewin' heads off the unlivin' and puttin 'em to the torch than hearin' ye whine about losin' a popularity contest. Only two things I got the patience left for from YOU right now are new orders or my pay."

He then leans back in his chair and laces his fingers together expectantly, glancing around the table at the reactions of all present. "Pfft. Don't even posture. Every one of ya's thinkin' it."

Hezar raises his glass to Belgrin.

Taking another drink of the wine, Janiries listens carefully to what Anise and Aidan say, periodically taking more bites of the food. Once Anise stares at her, the Sun Elf grins cheerfully back before replying.

"You know Anise, I actually do think you have the best interests of Tethyr at heart, rather than solely being concerned about the position of your church in this country. And you're correct, some leadership is required, and I'd prefer it to be from a church that cares about the people, rather than a bunch of royals who call hunts against the Tel’Quessir whenever they're bored of sleeping with their cousins."

Sipping the wine again briefly, Janiries puts the glass down before continuing to reply to Anise.

"You are, however, sorely mistaken about one thing. Your continued importance to our efforts to stop Lassathor. You and your church has offered very little to stop this threat, not even information about Lassathor! I have contacts of my own, as do the rest of us, all of whom would be happy to help stop this dire threat. Your own god, through the cleric we met at Tilver's Folly, even helped us in this fight. Besides, as Aidan mentioned, we adventurers have ways of our own. Get rid of us if you want, you won't stop us.

So, what's it going to be, Anise? Do you want to prove you actually care about Tethyr? Show some leadership, put recriminations aside and work with us to stop Lassathor. Cause with or without you, that's what I intend to do."

Janiries then leaps up from her position of sitting delicately from the food table, looking annoyed.

"Food's terrible by the way. No idea why I put up with this human swill.."

Landon looks like was about to say something but stops and waits. I wonder if she remembers that Mathias and I are part of that very same church.

Matthias, too, waited for the outcome of the argument. He was used to following orders, but... what was best for Tethyr came first. He wouldn't speak against the church, as Janiries threatened to do, but he would do his best to be a good example of Helm's teachings, regardless of Anise's worries.

Aidan stands, regarding each of you in turn. I know you have been through much ... and I am sorry that we didn't prepare you properly. But I believe that you can still help Tethyr, in fact, I believe you are the very ones who must help. You've seen firsthand what transpired at Tilver's Folly, and you've encountered the emerging bandit confederation and emerged alive.

Aidan mutters a few words and the room grows dark, save for a large map of Tethyr projected above the large wooden table. At least, it looks like a map - you can see what looks like Tethyr from very high above, including cloud cover. Aidan points to an area just a bit east of Tilver's Folly and the Stendarr estate, on the river.

This was the old Barony of Talonhawke. Prior to the uprising, it was an area of stability and peace - the Talonhawke family was well-known for their honest dealings, fairness, and for keeping their lands secure in the name of the people first, the crown second. They fell not to angry mobs, but to an assassin's knife, a few months before the Kings death.

Anise sits up - she had seemed disinterested up to this point, scratching Apollo behind his ears as he sniffed her boots. At word of the estate, however, she bolts up. Aidan - don't. They can't possibly be ready for....

We must, Anise - Bertram and I have already discussed it. Aidan turns back to you. What I am offering you is this Barony, it's lands, the castle and keep - in exchange for your promise to rule fairly over the area, to keep the people safe, and to make it a beacon in an otherwise dark nation. It may seem like a reward, but it's actually a great responsibility. We will help you as we can - I have a company of Helmite troops to help you establish order, and you will be given enough gold to help rebuild the area and draw in enough farmers, merchants and the like until you are self-sustaining. Two noble families - the Stendarrs and the Lethspurs - will become your vassals as their estates will be on your lands. I encourage you to maintain good relations with them, as they both have influence and their co-operation will make your lives much easier.

Once you have tamed your lands, what you do next is up to you. The rising threats of Lassathor and the bandit confederation must both be met. We will help you create an alliance of like-minded folk to try and meet these challenges, but you may wish to pursue your own alliances and agreements as well. The area is also rife with ruins and places which seem to attract danger - you may wish to explore them more fully as well.

In short, we are offering you these lands for you to rule, to use as your base of operations, and to use as the starting point of a great alliance against the evils which threaten us all. What do you say - are you up for it?

Bertram remains seated, nodding at Aidan's words. Anise is dumbfounded, saying nothing, her beautiful face going red. Aidan, though young, appears tired and worn, and leans heavily upon the table.

A barony? I can hear my grandmother cackling about this already and planning, spinning her webs.

Well I guess there is a new forest for me to tame huh. I guess we better get started. Any of you know anything about running an estate? I might be able to convince my parents to steward the place for us, get the household running and manage the troops. They both have experience in that. That would keep us from the mundane tasks and let us focus on the real challenges. That is if you would all accept the help.

I suggest we move out and consolidate the barony then move to find our allies. I also know that some of us have made a promise to help Marius, and perhaps that would allow us to gain some Druidic assistance as well.

Belgrin watches with fascination as the glowing landscape covers the table, shooting Aidan a raised eyebrow at the conclusion of his offer.

He scratches his beard thoughtfully, contemplating the possible outcomes of managing an entire barony.

Be a lot to do to get that place secure. Farmin' ain't my cup o tea, but there's bound to be mines around...

"You're.. you're giving us a barony? Huh.. didn't quite expect that."

Janiries curses to herself in elven a moment, before grabbing another glass of wine and downing it in one.

"So which lucky person are you making a baron? Landon? Matthais? Amestri? Hezar?!"

Let me bow out of that one. I am not meant to rule. And I see no reason it could not be you or Amestri as Baroness, or Belgrin for that matter.

You will judge amongst yourselves who is to rule - whether you appoint one person, or rule as committee, or take votes - that will be decided amongst yourselves. We do not seek to impose our order on you - you will decide for yourselves what your power structure is.

Anise can barely pick her jaw off the floor. We're ... REWARDING them? Her eyes are wide as she surveys the room, her eyes hovering over Janiries for a moment longer than anyone else. Bertram - you must see that this is unwise ... the blind leading the blind!

Aidan had a vision from the Watcher himself, Anise. responds Bertram, not looking at his lieutenant, as he watches the room.

After hearing my parents speak of the running their household, and from the days when they worked under nobles, I have a feeling that this is less of a reward than most people would think. There is much work to be done I am certain.

Hezar reaches down and scoops up Apollo as he leaves Anise's boot after her outburst.

Amestri blinks and looks up at Aidan's offer of a barony. I left the nobility to help others and now... we help others by being nobility? "I am not from around here... obviously, and thus do not know the politics of this nation well. Does the church of Helm rule the country and thus can dole out plots of land to those they deem worthy? Or did the Talonhawkes bequeath their land to the church? I ask to determine how others might view the legitimacy of this responsibility you are offering us."

The church took over responsibility for protecting as many of the people of the land as possible - including the people who once relied upon the Talonhawke family for protection. But we have neither the numbers to blanket the whole nation, nor the inclination to rule. We are not doling out plots of land; we are relinquishing responsibility for these people and the lands and entrusting them to you. Aidan smiles at you comfortingly. As for the legitimacy of our offer: the lands are certainly ours to give, as Merisel Talonhawke left all the families' lands, heirlooms and other possessions to the church, in absence of any heirs. The legitimacy of your stewardship will not be in question legally. Practically, it will be up to you to win hearts and minds in the area - the folk have become very independent over the years, as living there has seemed more and more like living on the frontier.

Not quite what I pictured when the ghost said we'd need an army, now...But then again, why not? A little Dwarven sensibilities might do the softskins some good. Certainly can't hurt the pride of the clan.

Looking at Bertram and Aiden in a somewhat odd way then turning to Hezar, "Before I left to join the church my grandmother raised me to manage our families estates and holdings. I may be rusty but i'm sure we'll be fine."

that was more of a metagame idea, so we did not have to deal with the minutia of running the estate :)

If you say so, but don't be expecting me to do any cleaning or gardening or training men on a daily basis. That stuff is for the birds.

Utterly dumbfounded, Matthias stared at Bertram and the others, at a loss for words. The parallels with the Talonhawke family and his own struck a chord, and he had to swallow a lump in his throat.

He had never aspired to be a leader, being just one of many children, but with the possibility before him... just imagine what good could be done in the name of Helm!

He looked at his friends. "This is a great responsibility, it is true, but 'from earnest striving lords are made.' I couldn't help but remember that quote - it's from Guirlon Jevath, in The Honest Worker. I think he meant that if you rise to the occasion, you can do great things." He nodded to Bertram, almost a seated bow. "If we can do any good, now is the time to prove it. My friends, let us tame Talonhawke!"

Aidan smiles at your responses. Remember, our church will be your ally so long as you think of the people first. From the time you take possession of the Barony, you no longer answer to us - unless we find your methods deplorable, which I doubt, considering the number of goodly beings assembled here. We will support you, as we do other holds throughout Tethyr, and you can expect help from the churches of Tyr, Torm and Lathander as well - and others beside.

Anise sits, shaking her head at what has transpired. Bertram stands and gives a short bow. I must attend to other business. Aidan - and Anise - can answer your questions, of which I assume you have many. With that, the tall patriarch exits the room.

You know Anise, I am sure the people would appreciate a little extra spiritual advice. I am sure we could find a small church for you.

"Right! Well, to start with, what condition is the Talonhawke estate in? Is it liveable in or will we have to rebuild it?"

"More to the immediate need, is there anyone else occupyin' it at the moment?"

"What condition are the settlements within the territory?"

geography to tell me about the land and the area. 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24

From Hezar's roll: The area of the Barony is roughly 100 miles east to west, bounded by the Stendarr estate on the west and Hawking's brook to the east; and fifty miles north to south, bounded by the Starspire foothills to the north and the Sulduskoon river to the south. At around 500 square miles, the Talonhawke family holdings were once amongst the largest of Tethyr's baronies. Much of the southern part is farmland, especially along the river; the northern part is less developed, mostly grassland, which thins out as you approach the foothills and the mountains proper. A small forest (The Fellwood) grows thicker and more wild as you approach Hawking's brook.

The estate was in quite good shape when last inspected a year ago; the surrounding keep also appeared structurally sound. We cannot be certain that unwelcome guests haven't taken up residence; you will have to find out for yourselves. Aidan gives you a wry smile and a wink.

As for settlements; the Stendarr and Lethspur households are in good repair and occupied; and there are several small villages and hamlets in the area. The farms are ready to be reclaimed, but most lie fallow at the moment, needing people acquainted with farming to get them going again.

You've already acquainted yourselves well with the Stendarr family, I see. notes Anise, her eyes on Janiries and the ring on her finger.

"We've had some.. dealings with the Stendarr family. I'm sure the Lady Stendarr will be enthusiastic at the prospect of serving under us."

Janiries tone returns to normal, having come to terms with the idea of being installed as rulers and leaders.. something that came quite naturally to any Sun Elf, even if it were in a human land.

"So, I imagine we should head to the estate first and confirm that it's structurally sound and lacking in any unwelcome inhabitants, then send word back to you here to send supplies and the like over to us. I'm certain we can find people willing to work the farms amongst the refugees we rescued from Tilver's Folly.. it'd be good for them to find a new, protected home."

I almost completely agree. I strongly believe we should help Marius catch his rogue druid. He has fought by our side with the expectation of our assistance. We can search for him with almost no side track, and once captured Marius might be able to earn us the support of his Circle.

"If there is a rogue druid threatening the people of Tethyr, it only seems right that we deal with that - especially if Marius' Circle might aid us in return. After all, Tilver's Folly is not so far from the Stendarr estate," Matthias agreed. "I have a feeling we'll need all the help we can muster soon enough. If there is no retinue provided for us off the bat, we had best see about gathering one quickly, the better to deal with the challenges we will face without wasting time on matters that could be left to them. Aidan, do you have any suggestions for us?"

Belgrin nods, satisfied that talk has steered away from blame, and towards action. "Huntin' a rogue druid sounds like fun. Gettin' Marius's boys on our side? Sounds like a plan. Sides', aren't druids good with plants and farms and the like? Surely it'd be a good start to have druids kickstartin' yer farmin' and watchin' over yer lands, aye? And besides, yer true on one count afore all others: We made a deal. Methinks Marius's done more'n a fair share of his end. Ah say it's our turn, no doubt."

"Sounds like we all agree, If you'll excuse us we had better get started." then turning to the others, "Lets meet up with Marius and find out what he can tell us about this rogue Druid."
Looks like I'm back hunting down dangerous spell casters again.

I suggest we all meet at my family home. We can provide a good meal and good company before we head out in the morning.

"So, we're helping track down this druid first, then heading to the Talonhawke estate?"

"Aye, sounds like a plan ta me. We take care of a pest, one less thorn in our side, earn some thanks and some new allies all in one go? Only sensible plan in my book."

More time traipsing around the wilds hunting for some Malarite druid, rather than potentially relaxing in a noble estate. Great.

Janiries nods in agreement to Belgrin's answer, helping herself to more wine. "I was hoping to get the loot valued and sold off before heading out again, so we should sort that out at Hezar's house."

"That sounds great, Hezar, thank you."

Marius clears his throat. I'd really appreciate the help tracking this bastard down - I know he had the blood of innocent folk on his hands before, and now - with our attentions turned towards this whole undead thing - I have no idea how many more victims he's claimed.

As to helping with your new lands - I'd be pleased, and I'm sure others of my faith would be as well. You understand, of course, that Silvanus is the God of wild nature - the untamed forests, for example. If you're looking for help with farming, then we'd need some followers of Chauntea - not that rare, amongst those who work the land.

Perhaps you could help me in the forest.

Hezar says with a smile.

"So, to Hezar's house to plan our next move?"

"All the same ta me; We know where the road's takin' us, matters little what stops we make on the way."

Amestri listens to the planning with a wistful look in her eyes. Ahh... it reminds me so much... She rises when the others do to leave for Hezar's homestead.

Aidan nods as you make to leave for Hezar's parents. I'll make sure to stay in touch - I've volunteered to be your liason with the church ... there wasn't much competition for the spot. Aidan looks meaningfully at Anise for a moment, who seems to ignore him.

Please say hello to your folks for me, Hezar - they're wonderful people. If they can help with this new project .... we'd all be better off for it.

As the room empties, Anise clears her throat. Janiries! I would have words with you!

Turning to the group a moment, Janiries sighs ever so slightly "Looks like I'm on the naughty step. I'll meet you guys at Hezar's house." before turning back to Anise.

"Lets talk then."

OOOOOOOOOOOOO Janiries is in trouuuuubllllleeeee! Hezar says like a school boy seeing someone called to the principal. Then he laughs and heads out.

Yes I will Aiden.

As they all leave. If you guys could give me half an hour head start that would be appreciated. I know my father will be thrilled, but my mother might be a little less than happy if a whole bunch of people showed up and she did not have at least 30 minutes to make sure the spotless home is gleaming.

With that he makes sure everyone knows where to go and he takes off at a trot with Apollo nipping at his heals.

Hello everyone!

I'd like to invite you to a PbP game set in the Forgotten Realms - the classic realms of the gray box (with a few pathfinder-y additions, of course). The Realms are a great setting for adventure, similar enough to Golarion to be familiar, but different enough to be interesting. I've played in the Realms for almost 20 years, but I don't expect players to have that level of familiarity. Players new to the setting are certainly welcome, as are experienced Realms veterans.

So, we're looking at a game set in the strife-torn nation of Tethyr, circa 1357 DR. With the royal family dead, the nation has fragmented, and multiple factions vie for power. Security and order have broken down and brigands and monsters roam freely. It's a land that is crying out for heroes! While I do plan to add structure to the adventure, and there will eventually be a meta plot, largely this will be a sandbox campaign which will feature a fair bit of dungeon delving, as well as social interaction with varying factions.

There have been a lot of stories and adventures set in the Realms over the years - forget them. There's no spellplague here. No fall of the Gods. Those events may never even happen - this is our game, just as Ed Greenwood would have it be. The Realms have been knocked by some for having a lot of powerful characters who seem to get involved in everyone elses' business and offer a Deus Ex Machina option for stories. Not going to happen here - this is your story, and while powerful Realms characters may make an appearance, they won't be bailing your party out or be getting overly involved in your story.

So, here's what we're looking at in terms of what's in the game, and what's out:
- all races, classes, skills, feats and spells for the core rulebook are allowed;
- all material from the advanced player's guide is permitted;
- racial options for the core races from the advanced races guide are permitted; mechanically, I don't differentiate between a moon elf and a sun elf, but these options can help you fine tune your character, should you choose to employ them. Additionally, the following races will be allowed: Aasimar, Ifrits, Oreads, Sylphs, Tieflings and Undines
- classes and options from both Ultimate Magic and Ultimate Combat are both fine; Gunslingers, however, are exceedingly rare in the Realms at this time and must be Gond-worshipping Lantanites
- some optional material from the 3.5 spell compendium and Forgotten Realms players guide will work their way in, but will not be player options from the get-go

Characters should be generated via a 25 point buy, with two traits and max starting gold. Hit points at first level are max plus any bonuses. At this point, I'm looking primarily for builds and concepts; we can flesh out your backstories after selection has taken place, especially if you're not familiar with the setting. Levelling up is technically going to be via tracked xp on the medium track, but I reserve the right to level you up at certain story points.

I am looking for players who will commit to posting at least once a day on weekdays, and hopefully on weekends as well. I like to run combat on maps shared via google docs; I do also roll initiative for your characters and the baddies. I run combats fairly quickly, so if you haven't posted in what I'd consider a reasonable timeframe (and I'm really rather reasonable) then I will smartly DMPC your character. Mature themes may pop up in the game so please be prepared; I do promise to handle things in a sensitive manner, however. Roleplaying is encouraged, and I really favour interesting interparty dynamics, even including a bit of disagreement and conflict. But at heart, I'd like to see your party grow and become a team, and perhaps a family, as things go on.

One last note: I tried to run a campaign in the Realms last year that ended due to a very painful situation in real life. I've learned a lot from what happened to me, and one thing that I want to encourage in this game is communication between players and myself. If I haven't seen a player post for 48 hours I'll attempt to reach out to them; as well, I'm going to share my real-life contact info with each selected player, in order to keep lines of communication open. I really want this game to go well and be something each of us can look back on as a great experience!

Oh, and a last note, I'm looking for six or so players total; recruitment will be open until sunday, november 11th. Thanks to all who apply!

Any restrictions to Alignment?

OO OO me me I wanna do this too any room for a dwarven stonelord paladin?

@ Ross Hearne: I don't want to put a hard limit on alignments, though I have found evil characters can sometimes be disruptive to long term harmony. Still, no solid restrictions on alignment at this point.

@ Critzible: By all means, roll him or her up!

Dotting for a dwarven gun fighter worshiper of Gond.

Gotta do a bit of research though. I have gamed in FG for 15+ years and I am unfamilliar with Lantinites. Dwarves may not work, idk.

Gond however is very familliar. I allowed Gond worshipers in the city when my high level group took over Westgate. Though we were the vampires, well one of us.

Absolutely interested!! I love the Realms, and am involved in a 20th level player driven one currently, though our DM is currently MIA.

Thinking of an Elf most likely, not sure what class just yet.

I am very interested in playing this. I have, however, only a paltry understanding of the setting. I've read a few of the Drizzt (probably spelled wrong) but that's about it.

That said, I do have an idea for a Synthesist summoner character I've always wanted to play. An Aasimar who isn't so much fusing with a pre-existing creature as calling on the their inheritance using arcane magic to do so. Fused, the Aasimar would go from being a somewhat cheery human to an indomitable warrior with flowing white robes. As they get stronger in power they're able to become more and more angelic.

The idea could also work for a tiefling, which I wouldn't be against using if it would work better with the group you have.

I'd need a level for when they start but I could work something out right now for a level 1 concept.

Id love to write up a dwarf. I've been a huge fan of FR for 10 or so. I've got most of the 3.x stuff and some 2e resources. I'll look at some stuff tomorrow when I get home to narrow my choice down.

I have a fun character I haven't played in years but unfortunately there are no pathfinder rules for half ogre. I could use half orc but the concept just does not work as well.

will continue to brainstorm a bit.

I managed to find my old creation for it and altered it to the requirements above. (Didn't really need much changing to be honest.) And when I said I had an idea I meant that it was an idea for a character I never got to play. (DM stopped posting on the forums and unfortunately that was that.)

Here is the basic build at level 1. The word fused is a seperate link to what he looks and his mechanics when fused. Anon (Fused)

Mechanically he'll focus on being a heavy hitter on the front lines. Later on, depending on what the group needs or how roleplay with Anon goes, he'll probably take levels of cleric or paladin. The general concept is an Aasimar adventurer who somehow (uncertain how just yet) discovers how to become more angelic and wants to use his powers for good. (rather basic, but I am leaving it purposefully vague so that I can change it too fit the background I'll need help creating.)

I'm open to suggestions and ideas or anything from both players and the DM.

Lantan is the island Gond stayed at during the time of troubles, and gave them advanced machanics and engineering. the extent of these is unknown.

How about a Mulhorandi Ifrit cleric of Thoth, with the Rune and Knowledge domains?

I have a fun character I haven't played in years but unfortunately there are no pathfinder rules for half ogre. I could use half orc but the concept just does not work as well.

will continue to brainstorm a bit.

Yes there is. Bestiary 2 I believe.

Dotting with interest to be a Calishite Pashazada (Pasha's son) with eventual designs on the Noble Scion PrC. Just nutting out if I want to go caster or martial.

Dotting and shuffling through teh thread with idea of Pirate (Rogue archetype) chased out from Luskon, who had to escape his execution.

Big fan of the realms. I'll be submitting a wizard from Waterdeep.

@ everyone: Thanks for the response so far. I should have noted that all characters will be starting off at 1st level. As well, consider how your character will fit into the situation in Tethyr; I'm hoping at least a few characters will be natives to the region. As well, I would like to see these characters get statted up, even if we aren't doing full backgrounds yet. No need for a full alias at this time, unless you choose to make one.

@Ross - a dwarven gunslinger is fine; it's hard to find resources on Lantan that aren't coloured by later events (such as its being wiped out by the spellplague). Consider it the neo-steampunk part of the setting, dwarves aren't uncommon, and neither are gnomes.

@Edward Sobel - I'd really rather we stuck to the core races, as well as the ARG ones that I noted were acceptable.

@Arazni - that's an interesting concept, but a potential flashpoint for conflict, being a foreigner, of a strange race, and of a foreign God who isn't technically allowed to represent his diety outside of his pantheon's sphere of influence. Perhaps a more mainstream God? Kossuth comes to mind.....

@ Mark - a calishite! The locals are gonna love you ;-)

As another note, I would like to see at least one cleric of a mainstream Tethyrian religion represented (Torm, Tyr, Helm, Ilmater, and Lathander would all be good choices).

Thanks all!

I am going to offer up a martial class will have to think about it a little. How friendly is this game to a Cavi? It has been a long time since I have seen this Box Set...very fun. Is it going to be pretty lethal?

@ Bilbo - As much as I like the cavalier, I always feel bad when you have to go into a dungeon (as you will have to do) and all of a sudden, you lose access to one of your primary class abilities. I won't say it's a bad choice, though, as you'll also have plenty of time topside....

The samurai might be a good compromise, as it seems less horse dependant while still giving you that knightly feel if you choose the right order. Paladin is also a good choice, and if you go that way, we'll have to consult together and see which order of paladins you belong to.

I won't be setting out to be lethal in this game, though I do let the dice rolls stand in fairness to all. I definitely want you to feel challenged, and depending on how early encounters go I may ramp up the difficulty somewhat. But everyone's fun is my primary concern.

DM locke. Any comments for the character I proposed or would you prefer I roll up a healer instead?

I have an idea for an Oracle (or cleric if you really want cleric) who would serve one of the main religions if you'd prefer it. I haven't played a straight up healer in a long time and I wouldn't mind trying one.

Here is Etwa Ilumatra:

Anyone know what kind of ranged weapons are used in Mulhorandi?
And do we get to choose a regional feat? If so, Etwa takes Arcane Schooling for the Summoner class.

Edit: Just saw the response. Will look at Kossoth.

@ everyone: Thanks for the response so far. I should have noted that all characters will be starting off at 1st level. As well, consider how your character will fit into the situation in Tethyr; I'm hoping at least a few characters will be natives to the region. As well, I would like to see these characters get statted up, even if we aren't doing full backgrounds yet. No need for a full alias at this time, unless you choose to make one.

@Arazni - that's an interesting concept, but a potential flashpoint for conflict, being a foreigner, of a strange race, and of a foreign God who isn't technically allowed to represent his diety outside of his pantheon's sphere of influence. Perhaps a more mainstream God? Kossuth comes to mind.....

As another note, I would like to see at least one cleric of a mainstream Tethyrian religion represented (Torm, Tyr, Helm, Ilmater, and Lathander would all be good choices).

Thanks all!

Sigh... Mainstream deities are so boring. :P

I changed out Etwa's quarterstaff for a scimitar, and I forgot to spend money on other equipment yet, but this is an interesting concept for a character and I'm feeling attached to her. Ah well. I suppose I can make a cleric of Lathander. I once had a paladin of Lathander.

Indeed, I will look at it a little deeper. Kara-Tur has always been a fun read. An envoy of some sort would probably work. Maybe and exchange of nobles for some sort of trade agreement or a tour of the west in the aftermath of the Golden Horde as means of re-establishing communications?

Hey Locke, nice to see you back.Pity i don't have time to join another PbP now, would have loved your Faerun campaign.
Just saying hello and good luck with everything.

Would an aasimar cleric of Siamorphe fill your main religion requirement. Or is that still too exotic?

Hey Gandal, thanks for the kind words. Sorry you don't have time to play, but I know how time-consuming even a single PbP can be. BTW, players from my old campaign get first consideration here.

@ Bilbo - remember, no golden horde situation has happened yet and may never happen. For a samurai, you could still do a Kara-Tur expat (there for any number of reasons) or we could re-flavour the class into something more regional.

@ Arzani - that fits into the setting; there's no reason you only have to submit one character either :-)

Hmmmm, forgot about that. Haha, it has been a long time.

Locke, any word on the character I submitted or my questions?

@ Marko - apologies for not responding earlier. Go ahead and put Anon forward, and feel free to submit other characters as well.

No problem. Sorry for asking so often. I've had threads go by so fast that DM's miss my submissions completely and I try to make a point of at least being noticed. XD

Anon will be my first submission then and I'll work on a second right now! I'll need some help with the settings, but I already have a few general ideas for the character's background. Would you like it if I wait and see if I get chosen before asking about the background?

And what is your opinion about an Oracle taking the Exalted of the Society trait if he has channeling?

Here is Davina Leantes, aasimar cleric of Siamorphe.

Like Etwa, I used alternate racial traits from the Advanced Race Guide (available on the online PRD)

If we're using the regional bonus feats, since Davina is from Tethyr, she'll take Luck of Heroes. Again, I'm not sure what ranged weapons are popular in Tethyr, but I think she will be melee/support focused anyway.

I gave her the trait Lover of the Law, normally associated with the worship of Abadar, and the Community domain to replace Planning, if that's permitted.

Another question: Can she be middle-aged? It seems fitting. I can see her meditating every day and casting lesser age resistance. :) I'm assuming since the adulthood age of aasimar is 60 years old, and middle age is a little over twice that for most races, she would be about 130 years old.

@ Mark - a calishite! The locals are gonna love you ;-)

Heh - they'll love me even more when they find out that the basis of the build will be a Sorcerer with the Imperious bloodline from ARG :P

I'm tinkering away and will throw up the details once I've hashed out most of the wrinkles.

The character I will be submitting is one of old. Started in the Realms ended in Ravenloft. Got the killing blow on the Flesh Golem lord. Of course he didn't stay dead, but we did escape his land.

Naturally I won't include all that into his backstory. We were not first level when we played that game. Who is to say that this isn't his backstory for that game.

@ Marko - technically, the traits and options from non-core materials and sources not listed really aren't something I want in the game. Having said that, I have no real problem with that trait adding a channeling use per day, so it's okay for you to use it (though, the name wouldn't make any sense in this setting)

@ Arazni - luck of heroes is a good feat, but remember it's not a bonus feat, it's one of your starting choices. Middle aged is fine as well.

Ah, okay. I thought I read somewhere in the Campaign Setting about extra feat at first level, but I see I was mistaken. :)

Sorry DM locke. XD I got the games mixed up with another I was applying for. No trait necessary, especially if it's something you'd prefer not to have.

Dotting for interest.

Arazni, you may be getting it confused with the Regional Feats. Though they were cool, they were not overly good, unless you were really specializing. Typically in a homebrew game creating a specialized character is a mistake. Simply because DMs don't write up player guides.

Barrelhouse is a recycled alias slot. Meaing I deleted the infromation on a character that was not excepted.

Backstory, appearance, and motivations to follow soon.

Here's the build of my submission. An oread monk tetori. The basic idea is that he's a bounty hunter, therefore his basic method of attack is grappling, pinning, and tying up his quarry. Though he's not opposed to doing damage. They're just usually worth more undamaged.

I need to do more background, but I'm new to the Forgotten Realms, so it'll take a bit longer.

Mark me down as interested!

Unfortunately, I know very little about Forgotten Realms, but would be happy to read up and learn if someone could point me to an online source for doing so (I have no access to the books, and am traveling at the moment will be unable to acquire any). Here is the basic crunch of my character concept, a Ninja Face that will emphasize Ki usage and try to deliver powerful blows with a katana.

I will update (add equipment, etc.) as I add on to the character, but first I wanted to ask (I didn't see anywhere in the thread), are we using traits for this character creation? If so, how many? Sorry if this has been answered and I simply missed it.

Hmm... I'm not that familiar with the Realms setting. Although I am interested.

About how well would a Oracle of Metal fit in? I've been wanting to play one.

Hi there garabbott,

It's hard to find good resources on the web for the classic realms - most will be full of info from the novels and subsequent editions, which will not be germane to our campaign. If you want to pm me with your email address, I can send you a pdf which will give you plenty of info about the realms.

And yes, two traits for everyone, though any from non-core sources (including Golarion specific traits from the companion line of books, for example) I would ask that you run them by me - chances are good they'll be fine.

@ everyone - Thanks for all submissions so far, please remember you can have more than one. At this point, we just need a name, concept and stats - backgrounds can be worked out later, unless you already have a solid idea of what you want, which we can work with. Remember, too, that a party can really do well with some good old stalwarts - a fighter, a cleric, the usual suspects. When looking at filling this party I'll be looking for people to fill the traditional roles first, and I'll definitely be considering combat-worthiness against a wide variety of opposition.

At this point, we just need a name, concept and stats - backgrounds can be worked out later.

Well, in that case, here's my first submission. I will have to think about it before I decide to submit a second.

This is an elf from another FR game that died.

I plan on making him a Magus, from The Wealdath, related in some way to the Treespeaker.

@ Harark - fit will really depend on the type of character you envision this oracle as being. I would put him or her forward, along with other characters you may be interested in playing.

@ Ariael - excellent - I look forward to seeing this Magus. Making him a Tethyr native is great, too - though keep his ties to any political bodies and/or leaders nebulous at this point, I've not yet decided on the status and leadership structure of Tethyr's elves, and the treespeaker is not canon at this time.

The Treespeaker is the Elven adviser to the crown of Tethyr.

However, since there is currently no ruling body, maybe it can just be the eldest Druid or something else tied just to the Elves.

Introducing Stigur Starhammer of Starhammer Hall in the Starspire

He is one of the traveling Hammers of Moradin out of Starhammer Hallwhich is in the Starspire mountains he travels often from his holdfast to Zassapur and is often an accomplished weaponsmith and oddly an orator for a dwarf. Currently he working to broker some rights for mining and smelting with the city, and hopes to expand the influence of his clan in this tulmutous kingdom of Tethyr. His Sigil is a brown field with a silvery star on it

Concept

Barrelhouse is pretty lousy worshiper of Gond. Unless you count being the life of the party apart of Gonds teachings. He is deeply devoted, but he considers his personal feelings on the matter private. Brave to a fault there is no task to great or to small for him to undertake.

@ Ariael - We'll work out something that fits your concept. It's not that I'm not familiar with the treespeaker, it's just that I'm not certain that's the leadership structure that the elves currently subscribe to in Tethyr, or that there is a unified power structure for them at all. Tethyr in the gray box is very much a blank slate, upon which much can be written.

@ Critzible - looking good! Not sure if you included "star" enough in your characters name and title though ... ;-)

I have an idea for two characters. One is a Halfling Cavalier, Order of the Paw. The other a Half-Elf Oracle of Metal.

Either work with the setting? I can post up stats for either tommorow, around 4:00pm EST.