We're using the fast progression (as there are some tasties I want to throw at you later that'll require you to be a tad higher :) so starting XP will be 1,300...
Aye the campaign/achievement traits are something I want to lace the saga with. I'm a big fan of the trait system but want them to be something you acquire as you adventure not just before.
Some will be group achievements while others might be individual. They'll also be a mixture of bastardised current traits and me own Highland recipes! It all adds to the flavour! :)
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Okay, guys. I am still busy with work and have added some new responsibilities to my plate that are going to ensure I am kept busy. I would suggest go ahead and replace me. ProfPotts is a magnificent GM and great player so if he shows any interest, he has my recommendation. The same goes for another, Zyren. Both are great and both are in Europe (well the Prof is actually in England, but it's just off of Europe).
I have been scouring the OOC forum looking for all of the games I am in and now I find out there is a new utility for posting to games. Sigh, it figures. =P
Good luck all. It has been so much fun playing with everyone.
Dray probably summed it up better in Randall's thread but you'll be sorely missed, you were onboard from the start when I was mooting this game and Disa is an excellent character.
Am sure the Norns will aid us find a replacement for your goodself!
Appreciate the heads up on potential players...
Mark you've your fingers in many game pies - do you also know of anyone looking for a game [the glacial pace is about to change I promise lol]
I'd prefer to try and recruit rather than open a thread, but if needbe we can go down that route.
Once again Drayen thanks man - will hopefully go a viking with you again some day!
As I said in Randall's game - we'll miss ya Drayen - good luck!
Ditto on the sentiments drayen - look us up when you've more time to spare and we'll find a spot next to the hearth for you.
DM BD - aye, many fingers in a number of differently flavoured pies. I'll give first right of refusal to ProfPotts and Zyren, but if they aren't inclined then then I can send out some tendrils of interest detection.
Have given ProfPotts and Zyren an invite, once I know yah or nae we can take things from there...
We'll definately need to replace Disa, but am open to 2 more characters if necessary. Iss Trow will soon wittle that down anyhow heheheh ;)
Mark: saw your new game recruitment minutes after it went live... was SO tempted but given I've been pruning games due to commitments it came at the wrong time... :(
Looks a doozy though! Undead and dwarves - sublime...
Hello everyone, it's an honour to be invited to your game, but sadly I have to refrain from joining, since the 6 campaigns I'm DMing don't leave any time or space to join another one as a player.
What I can recommend is posting a player request in my campfire thread. About 20 players are lingering there and I guess one or two of them are very interested in joining another game.
Good luck with your search!
DM BD - aye can understand. If my vision plays out this is going to easily be the darkest and bleakest of the games I'll be running. Will be interesting to see exactly how bitter and twisted my outlook can actually get...
Voodoo has said separate that he was pondering one and the same (ie. a Zolurket campaign) in the future, so there's always a chance for that :)
Thanks Zyren will do that - haven't heard back from ProfPotts and I'd like to get the party replacement done and dusted before we move on [you'll need em :)]
Hence they'll be a slight delay lads - will keep the hearth chatter ticking over though as plan your journey to the sages hermitage tho.
@Ragnar - aye it looks a dark one all right, was going to propose a drunken brawler whose sought solace and escape in the sauce... that or a abherrant blooded [choker] sorcerer concept that I've been mooting for a while... ;)
Maybe next time right enough...
Right on with this show - apologies btw for the post lag, will get some heavy lifting done asap...
Regional map updated with L'il Icerime now shown
Awww what a sweet little huge of frozen rock and cold hel it is... ;)
Hi, saw your post on Zyren's campfire. I'm still working on the background, but here's the man.
Here's his background. Everything else is on his profile. Thanks!
Born in the small port town of Rykka, Skølrykk was the son of Samyyk, a local fisherman. Every morning, even before he could walk, his brother Vårgyl and his sister Quialia would bring him to the icy seawater and bathe him. He learned to swim nearly as quickly as he learned to walk, which made his father very proud when he came home after a long day on the water.
When Skølrykk was 13, he joined his father and brother on his first day of fishing. He loved the spray of the salt waves and the cries of the seabirds, and he exulted as the wind blew through his hair as he stood on the bow of the small ship. He helped his father fish for much of the summer months, but when the wintry seas grew too stormy and dangerous, he was no longer allowed to accompany them.
He studied through the winters with the other children in the village at the house of an elder. The man was named Korl and he was the oldest man Skølrykk had ever seen, but he was still very clever and knowledgeable of many things. He taught the children of nature and history, and they all revered his sagacity.
As he grew older, he helped more with the fishing, and he maintained his love of the sea and of swimming. On returning to the port, he would often spring from the boat and swim to shore, starting progressively farther away, until his father and brother began to call him a fish.
At 15 he started training with the other young men of the village for the militia. There, he learned from a retired Viking named Thorald how to wield sword and shield, spear and axe. He also learned wrestling, and became quite good at it, because he was very strong. He continued with his teachings from Korl and Thorald and grew to be a fine young man.
He was always adventurous, and would explore the sea and the land both. One day, he would swim out as far as he could in the icy waters, and the next he would hike into the woods, often not returning until the morning. People wondered what he did this for, but he couldn't quite explain it, not even to himself. He felt like he was looking for something, but he knew not what.
On one of his swims, he went out and out and out until he thought his lungs would burst, or the waves would crush him, or some beast from the deep like in the legends would come up and devour him. A form materialized out of the water, slowly. It was a small island, thickly covered in trees and with sharp stones on the small shore. This was a very strange place for an island, and he had never seen or heard of it, though he had sailed this direction many times with his father.
He swam to the island and hauled himself out of the water, breathing hard and shivering. He walked across the shore, the sharp stones digging into his feet making him wince. He reached the forest and entered, to find it lush and sheltered from the wind, even strangely warm. He went through the small glade until he reached what he thought was the middle. There, he sat on the ground and leaned back against a tree. It was strange to see such a large tree on such a small island, and the entire place was exceedingly unnatural.
He then walked further, to find the other side of the island. There, he came upon a Skald longboat, wrecked on the jagged rocks of the beach. It looked like it had been there for years, and he wondered at this strange small island. He approached the boat and found it mostly in shambles. Seabirds had made the deck their roost, and the oars hung with algae and barnacles. The sail hung, tattered and eerily flapping in the wind. Old, peeling letters on the side read Det Dråthen Jyøgun. He climbed up the side to the protest of the seabirds, and entered the hull. Inside, he found a shipment of strange things, mostly parchment that fell apart as he lifted it out of chests, but also some boxes of dried fruits and spices. He found a box full of strange, moth-eaten clothes and donned them because he was cold. A further search revealed a small armory. He hefted a simple sword, and saw a couple of old axes as well, but they were deeply pitted with rust and grime. However, in the corner, he found a long spear that looked almost new. Lifting it, he found it light and strong, and the head was still sharp and free from decay. He decided he would bring this spear home and tell his family of his adventure. He returned the old clothes and left the ship with one last glance to hold it in his memory.
He followed the way he came by, and came to the shore where he came onto the island. He slipped back into the frigid water and began the long, awkward swim back with his treasure. The swim was twice as long as he remembered it, and was only made harder by trying to keep track of the spear. Twice, he considered leaving it to float away, but decided to keep it as it was the only evidence he had that this strange island existed. For a time, he thought he was lost, but as he smelled the smoke of the homefires burning, he knew to continue. The shore became visible, and to his horror, he realized that he could not only smell the smoke, but see it, too. He saw a black cloud growing over the shore where his home town was, and increased his pace, fearing the worst. He finally came to the shore, but it was too late. His father's fishing boat burned, half-sunk in the harbor, and Rykka was in ruins. Much of it still on fire, and he saw no people. He rushed home but found only a smoking pile of coals and rubble.
With his heart torn asunder and his face washed with tears, he ran through the streets, desperately looking for someone, anyone. He wanted to kill the people responsible for this evil, but nobody was there. He wandered dumbly through the streets now, his small world shattered. Without realizing it, his feet took him to the door of the old wise man, Korl. His house was made of stone, and had not been burned but the door hung off of its hinges and the place was torn apart. He sat on the floor and let the spear fall. A noise behind him made him jump and he saw that the old man, Korl, stood in the doorway, hunched as he was and leaning heavily on his walking staff. Tears ran down his old cheeks, but he smiled still.
That you yet live...that is a blessing, child. It is a blessing...
Skølrykk stood and wanted to say something, but nothing came out of his mouth except ...how?
I, too was away. I was deep in heart of the forest...there is my home, my space...As the sea is yours...
Korl bent down with much effort and lifted the spear, and looked at it, surprised. Where have you come by such a thing? he asked, wonder in his eyes.
On an island...there was a wreck...I...I found it... Skølrykk said slowly, still in shock.
This is a fine weapon, child! The wood, look at the handle!
Looking at it, Skølrykk saw that it was dark, and he remembered how light it was, but that meant nothing special to him, simply that it was well-made. He shrugged.
Child, this is Dunkelholz! Darkwood! he said, his eyes still watering. It was made for a great warrior. You keep this, and honor it, child. Honor it, and honor Rykka. You must go. There is nothing left here. He pressed the spear into his hands, and Skølrykk nodded.
Skølrykk repaired Korl's house and the two lived there for a short ime as he was preparing to leave. He was able to find a small boat and repair it enough to sail. The day he had finished, he returned to Korl's house. Korl told him Child, I am old, and I will die soon, I know. My heart cannot bear these last sufferings...Please perform the ceremony, will you? Skølrykk once again nodded, perplexed.
But how do you know...?
Do not worry, child, it is a part of life, and for me the time has come. I know this as you know that you must go!
The next morning, Skølrykk woke to find Korl cold in his bed. Solemnly, he built a pyre and set it to burn. He sailed away as Korl's spirit left this world, and has never returned home.
Skølrykk - you might want to check out the Campaign info page as well. DM BD has homebrewed some campaign traits and you might want to use one?
Thanks Ragnar, have done. Skølrykk is now finished, unless someone has suggestions for improvements. He's a spear-fighter and wrestler, but can also do sword and board.
Wow, just by accident I found out that people I don't know visit the campfire?! If you feel like posting there T-Ron, just go ahead :)
@ Black Dow: Glad that you found a replacement, good luck with your campaign!
Welcome to a place in the Saga's Skølrykk and thanks ZZ:)
Another Northman joins the ranks - the group's lost its "face" but gained more steel (well darkwood!). [Ragnar you're now the most charismatic of the group... well you and Liten Mun!]
Before we get Skølrykk introduced into the game - couple of wee suggestions regards his class/background.
The Brawler Fighter archtype seems to tie well with Skølrykk's background. If you're avoiding archtypes - then ignore my Scottish rummlin's; The longspear is a perfect weapon for him until foes close, then he gets nasty... [maybe swap out your longsword for a close weapon? - Unarmed strike and shield already qualify but if you go Brawler might want to rethink Feats - Cleave might not be best pick/fit]
Your longspear is darkwood, but you've also listed your shield as darkwood as well - initial gold is max starting + 500gp, so not sure you'd have both a dw longspear and shield...
Just a few runes to consider, but looking forward to seeing Skølrykk in action :) Once again welcome aboard and thanks for stepping up man - appreciate it.
Thanks, Dow! I'm excited to join! Now for a list of answers:
- I've swapped the Longsword for a Shortsword, but in close quarters, Skølrykk will most likely use his hands. This is sort of Beowolf-inspired, and I may consider a level of Brawler or even (Brutal Puglist) later. For now though, I think I'll stick to fighter if that's in order. I think the spear will be his main weapon when he can use it.
- The shield has been changed to regular old wood. (Though Darkwood isn't all that expensive, it doesn't really make sense to have now...)
- I've re-arranged feats, working towards whirlwind attack, which might be nice with the reach of the Longspear.
- The entrance sounds fine
Skølrykk [promise I won't keep messing with your character build - just suggestions and flavour...] here's a "viking" themed alternative to the shortsword:
Scramaseax
7 gp 1H Martial Dam: 1d6 19-20/x2 — 3 lbs. Type: S Sunder
Scramasax: Designed to be used in boarding actions and the press of shieldwalls, this popular tool and secondary weapon is a heavy curving knife, reminiscent of a meat cleaver. You gain a +1 bonus to your CMB to sunder shields and handheld items with a scramasax.
As far as the Brawler/Brutal Pugilist goes - the Barbarian archype could be picked if/when you multi-class, but I believe you'd have to go with the Brawler from Level 1 [or not as the case may be...]
Ultimately your call though. Anyone else seen a Brawler in game action guys?
Also [if you've not already done so] check out the game thread to see how we pepper the dialogue with "Auld Iobarian" terms - these are from the Old English translator in the game info section. Its related to Skald so Skølrykk will understand it.
I'll fire up the intro of Skølrykk tomorrow - looking forward to it!
Okay you'll have arrived (fittingly) to Kustnir by fishing boat and have been met by the dour dwarf Droost the Kipper. Droost is a militia leader and also a fish smoker of some renown... almost as renowned as his bad temper. He escorts you to the other "Outlanders"...
Upon the Lakeside there sits an old deserted villa... folk whisper how the spirit of a mighty Cyclop's mage was imprisoned within its walls... and how its spectral remains wait there still...
I have taken the Scramasax, it sounds sweet. I am hesitant to take the Brawler Archetype if it means I will lose the normal fighter bonuses. How does this affect these? For now I have taken the Brawler Archetype. Let's get started!
PS. Are we keeping track of our own XP?
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Black Dow: sorry for my lack of response to your thoughtful invite - I had one of those weeks, and this is the first chance I've had to get back to posting on the site.
I'm interested in playing, but it may take me a bit to catch up on what you've posted both IC and OOC and what's going on. If you've already filled the spot, that's fine - my own fault for being tardy! ;) Otherwise I'll see if I can get something together in the next day or two.
I have decided not to archetype. I prefer the flexibility of the straight-up fighter class. I may multiclass later but for now I will keep it simple.
@Skølrykk: No worries - character looks fine and is fitting right in. At present its just baseline XP that I'm granting as we go [you can keep track, but I'll also note the awarded XP in Game Info]. We're using the fast track, with some added extras thrown in. After your night of mead you'll be entitled to the "Outlander" achievement trait.
@ProfPotts: Group are still a little light on spellcasting [more arcane] - would welcome your thoughts on that and possible characters. There's a real sandbox feel to the initial part of the Saga so your character could be introduced at anytime in any number of locations... [no rush].
Run some ideas past me - either here or by Email (on my profile).
Thanks for the interest :)
I am going to need to swap out knowledge engineering for Craft Taxidermy. I realize with Muli's potions and pouch containers being animals, he will need to be creating these items. Much more practical than having glass bottles freeze or heavy metal containers.
Yeah...i can definitely hunt those little critters for pouches, or snare them with awesome survival checks. let me know in game when you need some.
I'll do my part by suppling some new flora and fauna for Muli to harvest, stuff and skin!
No worries - Knowledge: Engineering was good flavour, but Craft: Critterware is even better :)
Skølrykk in place of armor expert.
River Rat (marsh or river): You learned to swim right after you learned to walk. As a youth, a gang of river pirates put you to work swimming in nighttime rivers and canals with a dagger in your teeth so you could sever the anchor ropes of merchant vessels. You gain a +1 trait bonus on damage dealt with a dagger and a +1 trait bonus on Swim checks. Swim is always a class skill for you.
becomes...
Sea Rat (sea or ocean): You learned to swim right after you learned to walk. You grew up on and in the water, working either as a fisherman's helper or a deckhand on a pirate ship. You gain a +1 trait bonus on damage dealt with a dagger or close weapon and a +1 trait bonus on Swim checks. Swim is always a class skill for you.
I would like to switch the dagger for my scramasax. Let me know what you think!
Aye looks fine. I'd re-name it Sea-Wolf though... more Ulfen in flavour :)
The communal rumour mill is up and running in Campaign Info under: "Cold Truths & Tricksters Whispers"
We'll add to it as you all collect more [being the meadhus diplomats that you all are lol]
kicking on the game thread today as well, prise you from the mead horns and head out into the wilds o' Iobaria...
For the record "forky tails" is a local Scottish nickname for earwigs ;)
Map looks great. For future I would maybe go with a more neutral background for representing open ground. That texture is a little hard on my eyes, it's like those fuzzy 3-D images.
@ Prof: No worries sir, if things change for your goodself, please look in on us :)
@ Muli: Yeah thought that myself regards the background, went with tundra style with a shed load of snow overlays... next few maps will be more snow based backgrounds, so less 3-D and more "WHITE!!!!" lol.
hopefully by the endgame I'll be pulling out maps worthy of the Saga and its heroes!
DM Dow: If I can get to J-8 I will, but I thought you could only run in a straight line. Let me know the verdict!
Right call on the straight line. J -5 it is. Cheers for the heads up, my thinking is scrambled right now lol...
DM Dow: Remember I am ten feet away from Gilstur, attacking with my longspear so he wouldn't have been able to attack without moving first. If he did move, would I get an AoO for him exiting a threatened area?
5 ft step up before the hit?
Yeah, a 5' step would work but i think I would get an AoO on him...?
See this really teaches me to try and post while at work, one eye on the game, other prepping for students!
Yeah he'd have taken a 5 ft step, but regardless it was all for naught!
Apologies for the niggles in missing fundamentals gents, brain freeze at the moment!
Yeah, a 5' step would work but i think I would get an AoO on him...?
From the PRD:
Take 5-Foot StepYou can move 5 feet in any round when you don't perform any other kind of movement. Taking this 5-foot step never provokes an attack of opportunity.
Check!
Skolrykk - already bought, downloaded and being devoured.
Wonder if the Divine Yeti is thinking of implementing Reputation points?....
Don't sweat it BD - health focus first, then come back to the wonderful world of PbP.
Meh - life is fairly pishing on my chips as we say here in Scotland... Tried to purchase LoLK only to find my bank card wasn't working and am a victim of online fraud... :(
Feckin cheeky buggers actually donated to charity using my card!
Anyhoo while I'm waiting for my new card, my purchasing has been curtailed... So the book o' the north will have to wait :(
Any thoughts or juicy details lads? Anything you reckon would fit with our saga??
Hope that the bank is kindly to you, we got our card skimmed when we went to Vietnam (ended up with charges to 'Bathroom Bizzare' in Johannesburg of all places) - but the bank was pretty good in responding to it and we had the charges reversed and a new card in a week or two.
From Lands of Linnorm - lots of flavor related stuff that I've not read all the way through yet, but pretty light on crunch. The reputation system looks interesting and all, but not sure exactly how balanced it is.
eg. Killing a linnorm and returning with its head = +3 rep
Cashing in for a +5 circumstance on a single Diplo check = - 1d6 rep....
The effigies are ok, but don't think we'd get much use o' them.
The best thing that I've seen for an Iobaria campaign was actually in the latest section of the Jade Regent AP - Frostfallen Creature:
This frozen mammoth erupts into movement, its bones armored with plates of ice and eyes burning with cold flames. - a template for mindless undead.
The best thing that I've seen for an Iobaria campaign was actually in the latest section of the Jade Regent AP - Frostfallen Creature:
This frozen mammoth erupts into movement, its bones armored with plates of ice and eyes burning with cold flames. - a template for mindless undead.
Yeah I'd noticed that myself ;) Mmmmm...
Bank's been cool. Scammers bought barcode scanners... go figure and made a charitable donation...???
New card arrived today and Lands of Linnorm prompted purchased. Lack of crunch is a little disappointing, but expected it to be honest.
Considering a swim with the bunyips lads? Best brush up on your Dancin ;)... or you'll be taken with ketchup lol.
Funny stuff there Black Dow!