When Muli gets his mead, he pulls a stuffed chipmonk out of a pocket. He unscrews its head, shakes a few flakes of something into his drink which then sets to foaming. "Muli likes a little spice in his mead. He proceeds to screw the rodents head back on and tuck in back into a pocket.
He raises his mug in Skølrykk's direction. "Good to have crossed paths." He takes a swig which sets one of his eyes to twitching. But then sets it down and extends a very hairy hand to Skølrykk.
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
@Luke: Sundfulnes! Skølrykk replies, raising his tankard as well. I am pleased to have a local for our ládmann, you will be weorþlic! I heard tell of an egesgríma in an ærn am strand. Could this be the source of the trouble?
@Muli: Aye...it is good to have company in dark days. Skølrykk says thoughtfully, observing the man's strange habits and containers. Tell me, Muli. What do you þiging?
sundfulnes- health, prosperity, safety
weorþlic- important, valuable
egesgríma- terror-mask a horrible mask a creature that has assumed a horrible form a specter ghost
ærn- house
Strand- shore
þiging- to take to eat or drink
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
@Skølrykk: Aye, could be, but we are hoping that Quern will cunnan. Gódniht, all.
Luke heads outside to relieve himself and returns to find a comfortable spot to bed down for the night, knowing that the day will be long and possibly filled with danger.
Oh this? as Muli hefts the foaming tankard. "It's an asquirreled taste. Hur-hur" He laughs into his beard which foams up as he takes another drink. He finds the chipmonk again and screws its head off and shakes a flake onto the table. "It's Monk's Cloth, a black feldswamm that grows on the roots of the nightshade that get exposed to air in mús dens. It collects the unlybba and turns it to a woody tasting wyrt ."
Sipping down his mead, Kevkul rues the impotent kick of the local brew. When this is all over, I would make a brew strong enough to warm toes after a little sip, and then some.
Let whatever is devastating the puca do its worst to the foul creatures. A concern if only it threatens the doughy folk of this land.
Mentally noting Muli's exotic collection of spices, Kevkul sets in the back of his mind incorporating recipes for his new Kustnir brew.
Friend Muli, any chance you have used wyrts in flavoring the local medu?
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
Aaahh! Skølrykk sighs, draining his tankard. He, too then exits the mead hall to relieve himself. He nods to Ragnar on his way past Gódæfen. All seems friþsum, ne? He stands outside with him for a while, then retires to the lodge to sleep.
Gódniht, then. he says, knocking on the table where the others are seated. He then retires to a corner bed, leaning his spear against the wall and laying his hide armor and backpack on the floor next to him.
Gódæfen- good evening
friþsum- peaceful, fortified
Gódniht- good night
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
When the night has long set in and the moon is in the sky as Ragnar remains outside. The waking hours spent in quiet reflection and almost begging for some interruption where he could bring Skäggig to bear.
As the evening passes without interference, Ragnar is heavy of heart as he falls to slumber inside. Liten Mun sleeping at the foot of his cot.
Fireday 12th Lamashan (Late Autumn) Dawn in village of Kustir
Weather is as Luke thought, a crisp autumn morn. Light snow has fallen overnight leaving a hoar frosting across the realm..
You are awoken by Wym's chirpy preperation of breakfast; gulls eggs, smoked kippers, bread and buttermilk.
Soon he is dishing up and keen to share some news;
"Good ærmorgen my friends! So today you léaf us eh? Well you've ábróden me of a láþgeníðla , regardless of how successful you are at liberating us from the áwiergednes... Gilstur has left the village, gone into the wilds to lick his sárslegeas no doubt hah!"
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Rumour sharing off page sounds fine to me O' Lordly Sasquatch
Rising to water his preferred tree outside the Net, Ragnar returns after spitting the taste of morning out into the snow. He takes a seat and eats of kippers and bread - passing some meatier chunks of fish to Liten Mun as he is everpresent at his heel.
At word of Gilstur's departure "The sop has likely found a hole to crawl into and hide. And though we leave, we shall eftcyme when our business done"
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
Skølrykk is nowhere to be found when the others awake. He rejoins them only as they are sitting down to eat, his hair still wet and slightly frozen. Aye, Wym, gut ærmorgen. He says, sitting down and helping himself to some eggs. A man who is not with us is easy to mock, Wym. Who is this Gilster?
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Luke rises early, relieves himself outside, and uses the snow to clean himself. Upon returning and hearing of Gilster, he responds to Skølrykk.
Gilster is a oferdrincere who we had to set straight. We need to watch our bacu for awhile because he is also known as a sneak who likely has fæhþ in mind fer us.
Kevkul would have headed into bed a bit late, taking advantage of the free flow mead, being merry (in his own way), counting his blessings for being a cleric of the deity of ale and wine, and lastly thanking Wym for his hospitality.
Come morning, as a testament to dwarven liver, he wakes refreshed. A quick splash of water, Kevkul prays.
Bless, Deep Breath, Endure Elements, Longstrider
Donning his armor and rechecking his equipment, Kevkul heads towards the dining area, greeted by smell of newly cooked food.
He sits, ladling a helping of eggs.
The grig ran with finta between legs. A moment is what he needs to grow herðan.
Kevkul munches with relish, knowing a hot meal like this would be awhile to come round.
The stirings of making breakfast, rouse Muli from his spot curled up by the fire. He goes to his pack and pulls out his pipe and tobacco pouch. He sits outside the door to the hall and watches the weak sun rise while adding his own small clouds to the pink and oranges ones hanging low over the Lake at Dawn.
Afore long fast is broken, gear is packed and set, and hands warmed upon the glowing coals of the gatehouse brazier.
Klenna and Pater Fisc are among the thin ranks of shivering Kustnir villagers who huddle in the morning frost to watch their would be saviours leave. As you march out of the stockade and into the wilds of Iobaria, you catch Droost the Kipper curtly nodding from the watchtower, his words from the previous night still echoing;
Tend the fire, share the gewring an' watch out fer the ceald... It'll take a finger or fríese a heart just as easy as a Trow or Puka will!
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
Alright, Let us go then!
Skølrykk starts off breaking trail, the hood of his thick cloak pulled up and his hands sheathed in wool and leather. He walks quickly with long strides and uses his spear as a walking stick along side him as he goes.
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Luke will take the point, ranging as far as 50 feet ahead at times, being extra careful to look out for the passage of any human element. he carries his Long Bow, strung and ready to fire, if necessary.
Everyone will notice how at home Luke appears outdoors in the winter elements. He moves with cat-like grace and a wariness that demonstrates his true abilities.
Muli shrugs into his enormous pack and hefts it off the ground. He gives Klenna a shy wave and falls in with the group. He initially starts off near the front with Luke, but as they walk, Muli will often pause to look at a shrub, collect some berries, or peer into a burrow. As a result, he will in most cases be found at the back of the group trying to catch up.
Kevkul steps from the stockade gates. Feeling the chill then, he casts Endure Elements before he goes on further.
Trudging on, Kevkul would be found second last from behind, often looking over his shoulder at Muli, who often wanders often investigating shrubs, burrows or gaze at some far off thing.
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Ragnar marches in full armor with Skaggig drawn and laid across his shoulders. Reveling in the cold weather he is obviously happy to be doing something more than sitting and waiting. He walks in the main pack near the front, leaving the scouting to Luke.
Liten Mun ranges in and out of the convoy, but never outside of sight range.
Upon the walk Ragnar occasionally breaks into singing a Northlandic ode in a quiet voice.
So that puts us thus:
Skølrykk and Ragnar
Kevkul and Muli
with Luke ranging forward and back at times.
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Sound right to me...likely will leave the back ranging to Muli, whilst Liten Mun and I range primarily ahead and to the flanks occasionally. Bring it on!
As you trudge through the bracing autumnal country of Iobaria, something catches the eye of your trailblazer: Crouching like on the hunt Luke cautiously peers between some thicket and a sapling, his attention clearly drawn to something...
Luke:
Some 60-70 metres ahead, nestled in a copse of trees, is the camp of a traveller or hunter. It appears unoccupied, but at this distance it is impossible to be sure.
Meanwhile some 30 metres behind, at the tail of the party Muli notices a large, interesting burrow nestled between roots of a icethorn bush to his left...
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
Skølrykk levels his spear and gets better footing, spacing himself from the rest of the group to gain full use of his spear's range. He pads quietly up with Luke to get a better view of the camp. Move to A4
Too late Muli recognises the lair as that of a tundra forca-tægl or "tundra forky tail" - a large, voracious, armoured insect.
As he pulls back his investigating hand, it is pursued by a shining rust red carapace, and a set of hungry snapping mandibles;
DM o' the North's rolls:
1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
The creature's pincers attempt to grasp at Muli as the creature skuttles from its tundra lair...
Luke:
Luke as you creep closer to the encampment you notice an unoccupied bedroll, unlit firepit and perhaps more sinister; the rusted tips of bear-trap teeth poking from their cloak of twigs, scrubs and moss.
"Welllll, hello there. You are going to try to sting Muli now aren't you?...Muli knows that is what you do...But Muli did not know you were in there.." Muli sees that reasoning and kindness will not work on the mindless creature.
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
Round 1
Perception:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (16) + 1 = 17
Noticing the bowman, Skølrykk dashes across the clearing to the bushes on the other side. Run to J-5. Speed is 20, x4 =60. Is it okay to run diagonally? Also, does a moving target mean anything?
The bowman's first strike lands short, skitting harmlessly across the hard, frosty ground. The second however finds its mark, embedding itself in Ragnar's shoulder, soliciting a wheezing hack-laugh from beneath the hood...
Longbow Damage: 1d8 ⇒ 4
Ragnar: 4 hp damage and make a DC 11 Fort save... oh and you're up big fella :)
Simultaneously, but seperately, both Kevkul and Luke glean the possible identity of their foe... Kevkul recognising the fletch of the arrow just missed, and Luke the familiarity of the hacking laugh...
Seems old Gilstur has grown some herðan after all...
MAP ROUND 2 Ragnar - moved Liten Mun to shadow his master (unless you want him somewhere specific?)
Male Human Fighter 3) (HP: 35/35, AC: 17, Touch: 13
Round 2
Skølrykk lowers his spear and charges across the small distance left between him and the bowman, thrusting his spear at him with all his might. Charge to J-8 from J-5.
Okay as promised here’s the OOC thread for all would be adventurer’s in my Iobarian Saga (UK2/3: Sentinel & Gauntlet PFRPG Conversion)PBP. Game will be looking to begin late August [want plenty of time to prep characters and digest UC/Inner Sea Magic].
For the time being we’ll use this to discuss character creation, backgrounds and the upcoming game itself.
This is my first time GM’ing a pbp, so they’ll no doubt be a feeling out process as we kick off. I’m a pretty regular poster as well so will hopefully keep the game ticking over nicely too.
Most of you know me as a player, so know what to expect in terms of style etc. I enjoy roleplaying as well as roll-playing, so please indulge yourselves when we get underway and don’t take myself too seriously [see Kaul’s exploits for an example ;)]. That being said the Iobarian Saga will be at times be pretty grim, as befits the land you’ll be travelling to. I’m drawing from Beowulf, Old Slavic, Old Norse and Old English mythos, horror and languages to create a feel of Iobaria as a place with an old, cold legacy.
This has been a labour of love for me for some time – finally coming to fruition, but I’m not going to be precious about it – if there’s something you don’t like or want me to address feel free to comment. Know there are at least two of you who are running pbp games, so all input is much appreciated [with that in mind any advice on combat map generation will be most welcome].
Recap of those interested in writing their names into this Saga:
Mark Sweetman: Ulfen Berserker?
Filios: Native Iobarian Ranger (Guide) or Ranger (Battle Scout); dependent on contents of UC.
Meowzebub: Native Iobarian; Knife Fighter Rogue (from UC), a Metal Oracle blacksmith, or a Lore Sorcerer (expert in Runes and Cyclopes ruins).
Randall793: Thinking of filling in as healer, either druid, cleric, or oracle (depending also on UC content)
Drayen: Aldori Sword Lord?
Won't hold you to the above concepts folks as I know UC & other sources might throw up some new inspiration. Had a party of 5-6 in mind so we're pretty much there [you guys will get first refusal for the game].
May open a recruitment thread if needbe, but if any of you know of players in other pbp looking for a game and have had good experiences with then please direct them here.
Character Creation
Okay now onto the nitty-gritty [most of this is under my DM Black Dow profile, but I’ll reprint for ease of reference]:
Classes: All classes/archetypes from Core, APG, UM, Inner Sea World Guide, UC* & Inner Sea Magic. The only party proviso is that it would be hugely beneficial (hint-hint) to have an arcane spell-caster in the group.
* Gunslingers, Ninja & Samurai will need a great validation/background before I let them in; it’s not that I’m not a fan – just don’t them fitting into this mini-campaign too well.
Races: Standard only please.
Starting Level: 1st [may bump to 2nd, but I’ll let you know as I fine tune the adventure, for time being presume 1st]
Ability Scores: 20 point buy.
Feats: Core, APG, UM, UC, ISMagic & ISWG. Other sources must be approved by me.
Traits: 2 traits [one of which must be a Campaign Trait - see below,other sources as above]. May well be awarding traits as part of advancement rewards [will choose those that fit characters particular in-game achievements].
Iobarian Saga Campaign Traits:
Campaign Traits
These character background traits for the Iobarian Saga campaign are available at first level and seek to add an Iobarian flavour to the characters involved:
1. Comfortably Numb
2. Conqueror’s Heart
3. Friend o’ Nomen
4. Hearth Wisdom
5. Ken of the Kodlok
6. Kodlak-blōd
7. Lochfolk of Lodovka
8. Proud & Free
9. Survival of the Fittest
10. Touch of Frost
Comfortably Numb: You have grown up in the harsh cold lands of the north and barely notice the chill of winter.
Benefit: You gain a +4 trait bonus on all saving throws made to resist the effects of cold environments. You also acquire energy resistance 1 against cold.
Drawback: Your senses are dulled also and you suffer a -1 penalty to Perception checks.
Conqueror’s Heart: The barbarians of Old Iobaria were renowned expansionists and subjugators. Their spirit still runs strong in your veins, granting in you a lust for battle and an air of intimidation.
Benefit: You gain a +2 bonus to Initiative when you personally instigate combat. Combat started by an ally does not count. You also gain a +1 bonus to Intimidate checks and Intimidate is always a class skill for you.
Drawback: In your eagerness to engage in combat you fail to fight as savvy as normal and suffer a -1 AC penalty in combats where the above initiative bonus is in effect.
Friend o’ Nomen: The centaurs of the Noman Hills recognise you as an ally and you are familiar with their ways and traditions. In addition you share their affinity with horses.
Benefit: You gain a +2 trait bonus on Diplomacy checks when dealing with centaurs. Ride is always a class skill to you and in the event that Ride is already a class skill you then receive a +1 trait bonus to Ride checks.
Drawback: Your admiration for these creatures makes it difficult for you to battle them. Anytime you engage a centaur in combat you take a -2 penalty on your attack rolls.
Hearth Wisdom: In the cold winter evenings your people would gather round the hearth to recount the tales and myths of Old Iobaria. These sagas fired your imagination and spirit of adventure, and continue to drive you to this day.
Benefit: You gain a +1 trait bonus to any two of Knowledge (History), Knowledge (Nature) and Knowledge (Religion). The two chosen skills are always class skills to you.
Drawback: Your hasty impatience in seeking to experience the old legends for yourself means you suffer a -1 penalty on one Dexterity-based skill check chosen from Ride, Sleight of Hand or Stealth.
Ken of the Kodlok: You possess a supernatural or scholarly understanding into what the Iobarian people call the Kodlok; humanlike creatures that possess animalistic qualities. Your proficient insight relates to both their behaviour and ecology.
Benefit: You gain a +2 bonus to Initiative, Knowledge (Nature) and Sense Motive checks with regards to any creatures of the Monstrous Humanoid type.
Drawback: Hostile creatures with the Monstrous Humanoid type encountered in Iobaria instinctively sense your keen acumen regarding them and target you in combat, gaining a +1 morale bonus on attack rolls whilst fighting you.
Kodlak-blōd: Someone in your distant family tree was a lycanthrope or an animalistic shape-shifter and you still carry their legacy in your veins.
Benefit: Animals have a strange reticence when they attack you, and as a result suffer a -2 penalty on all attack rolls made against you. If you have the wild empathy ability you receive a +1 trait bonus to any wild empathy checks.
Drawback: Due to your legacy you suffer a -1 penalty to saving throws resisting lycanthropy, and take +1 point of damage from attacks with silvered weapons.
Lochfolk of Lodovka: Your kin has made a living off the Lake of Mist and Veil’s coasts since before Brevoy existed. Your family’s apt motto is “The Waters, Our Fields”.
Benefit: You gain a +1 trait bonus to Profession (Fisherman), Survival and Swim checks. Swim is always treated as a class skill for you.
Drawback: A proverbial “fish out of water” you struggle socially in areas devoid of a large body of water. As such you take a -2 penalty on any Knowledge (Local) checks in non coastal and lakeside locales.
Proud & Free: You are a descendent of the free folk who populate much of Iobaria’s hinterlands and you share their fierce and stubborn spirit of independence.
Benefit: Pride for your lineage fortifies your mind and soul. You gain a +1 morale bonus on attempts to intimidate you, saving throws against fear and mind affecting powers, spells and effects.
Drawback: You abjectly refuse to bend knee to any nobles that you encounter, and as a result suffer a -2 penalty to Diplomacy checks when dealing with them.
Survival of the Fittest: One of your ancestors was a survivor of the last great plague that swept Iobaria. Like them you are especially resistant to diseases, but are cautious when dealing with creatures that can spread sickness and pestilence.
Benefit: You gain a +4 trait bonus on all saving throws made to resist the effects of disease.
Drawback: You suffer a -2 penalty on initiative when in combat with creatures that are diseased or can inflict disease with a supernatural ability or extraordinary ability.
Touch of Frost: The cold fey of the North infused some of their essence into one of your forebear’s centuries past, but you still carry their boon, albeit now greatly diminished.
Benefit: You may cast the 0-level spell Ray of Frost once per day as a spell-like ability. This ability is cast at your highest arcane caster level gained; if you have no caster level, it functions at CL: 1st. The frost spell-like ability’s save DC is Charisma-based. Additionally any cold based damage you deliver by spell or spell like abilities does bonus +1 damage.
Drawback: Like the fey that empowered you, cold iron weapons are your bane and deliver an additional +1 damage to you in successful attacks.
Languages: All characters start off with Common and regional language. Auld Iobarian [a blend of Skald, Sylvan & Hallit] is also an optional regional tongue.
Experience Track: TBC, will be either Standard or Fast.
Hit Points: Max at first level, rolled or class average [PC choice] from their-on in.
Starting Gold: Maximum for class. If we’re starting @ 2nd level you’ll get a bonus cache to reflect your experience.
Background: For those of you familiar with Kingmaker AP, you will probably begin the Saga in Brevoy as a group not selected to forge a realm in the wild Stolen Lands of the River Kingdoms. However another opportunity to slake your wanderlust will soon present itself ;) If you’re not I’ll provide an overview here to aid character background.
Here's the pre-amble for the conversion of the classic UK 2 & 3 series The Sentinel & The Gauntlet aka "THE IOBARIAN SAGA":
Murder one night... Mercy the next... Strange script inscribed upon the walls in blood.
The cold land of Iobaria is as unyielding as the Icerime mountains, deep as the waters of the Lake of Mists & Veils, mysterious as the ancient destinies once forged there.
Yet now in a forgotten village, within a forgotten realm, once proudly independent folk plead the help of strangers. Will you aid them?
Hope that gives a little background to the pbp. I'm happy to give more flavour to my take on Iobaria if anyone wants it, but with potentially 2 Iobarian natives in the group, they may want to relay that info in-game...
The basic premise of the game is to journey to the village and solve their murderous mystery. Of course its never as simple as it sounds lol. Iobaria's past and present will play a role in how the pbp evolves.
The framework of the Sentinel element [first part] is more sand-box, while the Gauntlet [second part] element is more railroaded due to a more static locale.
I'll be upping the flavour and feel or Iobaria and using cold weather rules to give you all something else to think about.
The in-game start date will probably be in late Lamashan/early Neth [mid-late Autumn]... plenty of time before winter bites...
Not sure on a name yet, but picked up the 2nd to 4th trade paperbacks of Northlanders in the last few days so will hopefully get inspired.
Looking to play him as a big ol' hulking hunk of prime Northman. Not too nimble and prefers to take the direct route.
Rough Outline Background:
Believes himself a descendant of one of the warriors that originally sought out Iobaria and settled it.
Currently a disgraced son of a coward. His father refused call to armament to battle raiders that were approaching their village.
Disowned his family and swore a blood oath to come back covered in glory from Iobaria.
Set off with his dog.
Crunch:
Str: 16, Dex: 8, Con: 16, Int: 12, Wis: 13, Cha: 12
Archetypes of Interest from UC: Armored Hulk, Titan Mauler
Human Alternate Features: Heart of the Wilderness
Traits:
Proud and Free (Campaign): +1 morale on attempts to be Intimidated and saves vs fear / mind-affecting powers. -2 Diplomacy with nobles.
Know the Land (Green Faith – Faiths of Balance): +1 on Knowledge (Nature) and Survival.
Feats:
Rugged Northerner (Inner Sea Guide): treat extreme cold as severe cold, severe cold as cold and not impacted by cold. No fatigue from frostbite or hypothermia.
Endurance: +4 bonus on Swim to resist exhaustion, Con made to continue running, Con to avoid damage from force march, Con to hold breath, Con to avoid nonlethal damage from starvation or thirst, Fort saves from hot or cold environments and Fort saves to resist suffocation. May sleep in light or medium armor without becoming fatigued
Skills (4+Int): Handle Animal, Intimidate, Knowledge (nature), Perception, Survival
Gear: 180gp start
Greatsword (50gp): 2d6, 19-20/x2, S, 8lb
Scale Mail (50gp): +5 AC, +3 Max Dex, -4 Armor Check, 20ft speed, 30lb
Guard Dog (25gp) – a Norsk Elghund (Norwegian Elkhound)
With an Int of 2, can know six tricks: Down, Fetch, Heel, Guard, Seek, Stay
Str 13, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 2, Wis 12, Cha 6; Skill Focus (Perception)
Acrobatics +1 (+9 to jump), Perception +8, Survival +1 (+5 scent tracking)
Cold Weather Outfit (Free) - +5 circumstance on Fort saves against exposure to cold weather, 7lb
Deity: The Green Faith
Ahhh Northlands... like it - great series. Have actually been thumbing through them myself for some inspiration!
Basic build looks good. Nice background... we'll see what UC throws up regards archtypes.
Mark:
Glad your character's background has a legacy in Iobaria... have a nice bittersweet surprise planned which I'll tailor towards your Ulfen's heritage ;)
BTW your Norsk Elghund actually knows 7 tricks - you missed play dead... no wait that's what the Is Trow will teach him... I joke of course...
It is always difficult to imagine a a cool back ground and then have to limit it to a first level character that has never done anything.
Will definitely be interested in Runes and Ruins.
Will work on crunch tonight with your blessing
background:
ok, idea just came to me. A wandering alchemist hermit, travels through Iobaria treating sickness and disease, looking out for next outbreak. He studies the Cyclopean ruins thinking there is a tie. Takes on a local apprentice to help him in his old age.
When the old man dies, his last instructions are to travel to Brevoy to settle his affairs. Confused the lad goes, only to find out the hermit was a noble. A will that had been prepared a few years earlier passed on the hermit's estate to his family, but rewards him with some money or his trouble and service and his equipment.
The lad buys a book in a street market as a memento of the the old man. It had been recovered in the Stolen Lands written in Cyclopean, a natural history treatise (or so a crude translation of the title would suggest), so it is not considered all that valuable. But what is natural for a cyclops is quite unnatural, and fuels his new advancement. The book is full of strange formulae and methods to collect plants and minerals to create even stranger magics. Book in hand, he is about to set out and return to his homeland and pick up the efforts of where his old master left off.[/background]
Chirurgeon Archtype from UM (so will have some arcane healing) and possibly Mind Chemist (Mental mutagens instead of physical and bonus to knowledge) also from UM.
Meow you make a good point regards starting level...
Okay let's all shoot for a 2nd level start - that way any multiclassers get an opportunity to... err multiclass, and it refects you all have a little more experience under your belts.
Also means I can unlease harder nasties upon ye all ;)
****************Revised Character Creation**************
Starting Level: 2
Additional Wealth: 500gp [yeah I know 1000gp is the recommended amount for 2nd level but I'm a stingy Scot... if your desperate for something outwith your wealth range - then I'm open to ideas...
Meowzebub:
Really like the concept... the region your all heading to has a resident sage known for his historical (and bizarrely) horticultural knowledge... Could be he was a colleague/friend/rival of your deceased master??
Great minds and all :) I knew there would be a guy like that. My first thought was to be that character, but yeah at first level you can't really pull that off.
I could be this person's apprentice if that would work. I could have been sent to Brevoy for supplies or to collect warriors to help. Or I can stick with the first background and see my master as a friendly rival, with his equally weird ideas. Whichever works better for your story.
Think I will go with Kodlak-blōd as my trait. Something my master maybe recognized as worthy of keeping an interested eye on. The alchemist mutagens could represent Cyclopean means of awakening his Kodlak-blōd.
2nd Level will be cool as I at least get a Rage Power to play with. Will wait on UC before finally deciding that too. 2nd level HP will help this low AC brute soak up a few more hits too....
I see my barbarian as still on his way through to Iobaria when we take on the quest in Brevoy. 2nd level can reflect the experience he picked up on the path from the Linnorn Kings to Brevoy.
With the increased wealth can I upgrade my dog to masterwork? - maybe a +1 on Fort vs massive damage :P
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
I see Luke in Brevoy collecting his fee from a recent job as a Guide for a caravan into Iobaria. He has since returned to Brevoy with the caravan, and he has just collected his fee.
Impressed with the character concepts thus far gents... Glad 2nd level fits with everyone's approval :)
Over the coming week I'll start firming up some background knowledge on Iobaria for each of you.
Any other info/feedback that I can give you all?
@Mark: Yup the 500gp is ontop of max starting wealth, again this'll reflect coin and potential items gained through your advancement. MW dog... like it lol. Your Ulfen has probably carved a bloody path across Avistan to reach Brevoy lol.
@Luke: Looks good. Remember to take a regional language... Auld Iobarian is probably a good fit :)
An Iobarian guide will prove pretty handy... I'll supply you with some more background regards possible regional caravan/trade info. For sake of the campaign we won't have him come from the beleaguered village, but he'll know of it...
Have some cunning ideas that I'll come back to you on... heheh.
Will have a more detailed scan over Luke over the next couple of days.
Meowzebub:
Currently leaning towards the idea that your master was an acquaintance of the sage you might encounter. That way you've heard of him but not familar with him? Also perhaps in your master's will he bequeath's a book, knowledge or an item for you to deliver? Would give you added incentive and open up a opportunity for a side quest too... Like the rational behind the trait too... giving me plenty of inspiration at this end.
DM BD - what's your go-to google translate for 'Ulfen'?
I've half decided to go with the always classic Ragnar as a first name and am thinking of the surname Sköld Född (shield born in Swedish according to Google) to reflect the fact he's disowned his family name and is forging a new one upon the story of his arms.
I'm warming to the Armored Hulk archetype from what I've heard of it. Splint Mail and a Heavy Shield gets me an 18 AC even with the -1 Dex penalty.
@Mark: Ragnar Sköld Född is an great name... one for the Sagas.
Not really fussed on the default for Skald - in the game myself and Drayen play Ulfen we communicate via Icelandic [online translator] but any of the Scandanvian tongues would fit as Skald dialects. The translator we use is: Online Translator, Swedish might be a good shout - but not fussed either way. Check out my character Skäne “Countless” Ingvârssonn for how we use in in DMRandall's 3 Days to Kill.
Here's a trait from Humans of Golarian you might find use for given the Armoured Hulk archtype:
Shield Bearer Trait:
Shield Bearer (Ulfen): You have survived many battles thanks to your skill with your shield. When performing a shield bash, you deal 1 additional point of damage. Also, once per day on your turn as a free action, you may provide one adjacent ally a +2 trait bonus to his Armor Class. This bonus lasts for 1 round, so long as you and the target remain adjacent to one another. You can only use this ability if you are using a shield. You retain your shield bonus to your armor class when using this ability. I'm hoping to take it for my own Northman Skane in another game, as it fits his "shieldwall" persona, might be too defensive for Ragnar??
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Luke is upgraded to Second Level! Waiting on UC to see if there are any changes. Added MW Cross Bow and CHain Shirt with extra 500GP! Rolled 8 on HP for 2nd.
Luke is upgraded to Second Level! Waiting on UC to see if there are any changes. Added MW Cross Bow and CHain Shirt with extra 500GP! Rolled 8 on HP for 2nd.
Notice you've 90-odd gold left. Might I suggest some MW/cold-iron/silvered ammo? Just a suggestion...
Will have a proper trawl over Luke this afternoon - looks good though. Excellent scout and ranged combatant - no probs regards changes, until we start I'm open to rebuilds etc....
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Yep, that is definitely my next purchase...just contemplating. Skills might not be totally accurate due to quick math at the office - I was going to level up on Hero Lab when I get home from work and re-post profile over to be certain that all is perfect.
Quick question - do you know of any feats that will allow me to increase the number of times per day that I can use the Ranger's Focus from the Guide Archetype from 1/day? I could not find any. It may be that there just are not any?
Yep, that is definitely my next purchase...just contemplating. Skills might not be totally accurate due to quick math at the office - I was going to level up on Hero Lab when I get home from work and re-post profile over to be certain that all is perfect.
Quick question - do you know of any feats that will allow me to increase the number of times per day that I can use the Ranger's Focus from the Guide Archetype from 1/day? I could not find any. It may be that there just are not any?
No probs re: the crunch. Plenty of time to hammer things out. Re: the feat, nothing springs to mind at present [I'll root about though] could be that UC has something?
I've seen the Shield Bearer trait, but as you say it's probably a little too defensive for Ragnar.
I'd like to fit him out as a stereotypical viking - bearded axe, longsword, wooden shield, spear and chainmail - so will probably still play around with the stat figures and maybe even the archetype.
Even dallied with the idea of building him up as an Unbreakable archetype Fighter - which gives Endurance and Diehard as 1st level bonus feats.
I kind of see him running from Linnorm to Brevoy in full battle kit, not even taking off the armor to sleep.
Obviously still some pondering to do - but I have time at least to decide.
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
@Mark: have you looked at the Invulnerable Rager Archetype. It was pretty much right on for your description..gotta love the DR and the adaptability to elements based upon the cold we will be dealing with in this PbP?
@Mark: have you looked at the Invulnerable Rager Archetype. It was pretty much right on for your description..gotta love the DR and the adaptability to elements based upon the cold we will be dealing with in this PbP?
I would also check if BD is amenable to the barbarian variant in the PCCS which trades Trap Sense for Cold Resistance.
Welcome aboard Randall & Drayen... what's yer thoughts guys?
Invulnerable Rager is a pretty cool fit. Anyone got UC yet? [I'm a pdf guy so won't get it in deadtree until I've had a look see first...]
Absolutely good with swapping out Trap Sense for Cold Resistance, always thought it fitted Norse barbarians much more than say a Tarzan trap sense type of fella...
Cold Resistance (Ex): At 3rd level, a barbarian gains cold resistance 2. This resistance increases by 2 for every 3 additional levels the barbarian attains, for a total of cold resistance 12 at 18th level. this ability replaces Trap Sense. PCCS page 41.
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Luke is accurately leveled as a Guide. I hope to see pdf of UC tomorrow night to see if I need to change to Battle Scout, or make any other small tweaks.
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Invulnerable Rager is indeed a good fit, but I've always had Rugged Northerner from Inner Sea Guide in the build which basically gives me close to that level of cold protection from 1st level. And DR is fun and all, but I was hoping for some more flavorful abilities.
Wild Rager (UC) would be fun, but I'd have to make a morale save each time I killed something or get confused and start potentially attacking you guys. You do get the equivalent of a Monk's flurry though...
PS - I have been able to skive a little looksie at UC, so if you have any directed questions I can answer them.
Luke - Battle Scout looks cool, but the replacement abilities start at 4th level. You lose animal companion and some favored enemies to be very good at ambushes on your favored terrain.
I love Warden though - you don't get 'any' favored enemies, but your favored terrain bonuses are insane. At 2nd level you can take 20 on Survival checks in your favored terrain if not distracted, and can take 10 even if distracted. At 4th you get the same 'leading a group' bonuses in favored terrain as you do with the Guide archetype.
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Massaging the background a bit more:
Ragnar's father was a húskarl - which makes his refusal to take arms more poignant. Plus gives me a reason to use a two-handed bearded axe as his main weapon. Will still have the longsword and shield as back-ups.
DM BD - would you be open to a mish-mash of a couple of archetypes?
I like the DR bent of the Invulnerable Rager, but not so much the Extreme Endurance (as I get most of that through Rugged Northlander).
Instead of swapping Trap Sense for Extreme Endurance, would you be open to the following trade-off (for trap sense only):
Sixth Sense (Ex): At 3rd level, the superstitious barbarian gains a +1 bonus on initiative and a +1 insight bonus to AC during surprise rounds. This bonus increases by +1 for every three levels after 3rd. This ability replaces trap sense.
@ Ragnar: The trade off looks fine enough, would fit with that notion that Ragnar has had to leave the North due to a blod-feud, and thus is always on his guard [something that will become steadfast in his character by 3rd]
This applies to everyone actually - want you all to have the best characters [both conceptually and mechanically] so if there's anything you're mooting feel free to run it past me :)
@ Luke: Falconer would be cool - you'd just have to go for one of these tho; Gyrfalcon, amazingly beautiful artic birds o' prey.
Great, with a potential bird and hound in the party, you guys are really playing to my animal loving sensibilities! Damn yease :)
Great, with a potential bird and hound in the party, you guys are really playing to my animal loving sensibilities! Damn yease :)
Is someone making a character with a hound? I was looking at the Hound Master cavalier archetype from this year's RPG Superstar contest and was juggling that idea with the Savage Skald bard archetype. Please let me know if anyone is going with a hound theme already as I don't want to step on any toes.
@ Drayen: Houndmaster is cool, its a great archtype and one that conjures up elements of Fionn mac Cumhaill (for a celt like me anyway).
Would be happy for you to go with it... will need to think about Ragnar also having a hound as combat's could get hugely messy with three dugs, but with a party of 5 it'll work... (just no tricks entitled Leg Hump or Crotch Sniff please :)
Just better hope there's no artic goblins in Ioberia ;)
First Kes now the Dog Whisperer... I had such high hopes for this game... double damn yease lol.
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Just to clarify that my pet dog will not be a combat entity in any regard. He doesn't even have any combat tricks taught. He'll just be my character's confidant... had to have someone to talk to on the big run across Golarion right?
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
Gyrfalcon looks awesome...I will definitely use that if I build as the Falconer. I can't wait to sink my teeth into the UC and see if I want to go that route!
Just to clarify that my pet dog will not be a combat entity in any regard. He doesn't even have any combat tricks taught. He'll just be my character's confidant... had to have someone to talk to on the big run across Golarion right?
Deal - you try and keep him out of combat, and I'll try and keep him out of harm's way lol.
Least I now have a "miraculous" last gambit should the Is Trow get you all early...
Groggily Ragnar is pulled into conciousness by his hund's incessant licking...
His eyes widen as the brutal events of the morning return, the painful memory of the ambush and of the sight before him... Somehow, against the odds, his hund had dragged all the fallen back to camp... But what of the Is Trow???
As he rises the Northman catches a glimpse of the all-too-familiar clawed hand of an Is Trow lying in the light snow..."Nei... it cannot be... is that... chew marks?!?!"
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Or more likely:
Ragnar came upon the broken and lifeless body of what was once his closest companion. Teeth marks and missing portions of it's belly showed that the Is Trow had fed after they had killed the elghund.
His eyes grew dark with intent as his pupils dilated. Heavy breaths cast waves of steam into the frozen air. A growl started low in his stomach and grew in intensity as Ragnar howled into the sky.
A crack to his side brought his eyes around as one of the foul creatures lingered still. Unlimbering his axe Ragnar began chanting rhythmically "Chlanna nan con thigibh a so's gheibh sibh feoil" as he charged the beast.
This really reminds me of an MMO called Dark Age of Camelot. I don't know if anyone else played it, or if you even know of it, but it was a blast playing vikings in the Midgard realm.
Thinking of going with the Beastmorph archetype as a tie in with Kodlak-blod(adding even more animal-ness to the team). Sort of alchemical lycanthropy. Unfortunately, it interferes with Chirugeon so that will be dropped. That would have allowed me to help heal a little bit, but now the brunt will be on Randell's concept. I can still pick up infusion (which would allow others to drink my elixirs) but I will have to take a discovery for that and that won't happen right away.
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Meowzebub - Beastmorph would be very cool. I'm correct in assuming your 2nd Level discovery will be Feral Mutagen? That will pretty much give us two frontline fighters (three if drayen goes Houndmaster).
Looks like we'll be able to dish out the hurt, just a matter of how much we could take....
Yeah group is defo loaded for Cave Bear lol... And the animal vibe is pretty cool also.
Its possible that the group may need a "face" as well... [depending on what Randall opts for] as at present any diplomacy you guys get involved with is likely to be the gun-boat style ;)
If Randall opts for a druid I'll be tempted to rechristen the game "Iobarian Menagerie" lol or run a seperate game thread for your pets [a la Pet Avengers ;)]
Overall am loving the character concepts - Drayen while I've not played the MMO, that Dark Ages feel is definately one I'm going for. Likewise I'm drawing on the much-maligned [but hell I enjoyeded it] Viking: Battle for Asgard.
Meowzebub - is the Beastmorph from UC? Speaking of which anyone who has UC fill me in a little on the Skirnir Magus archtype...
Anything you guys would like to see from me? [in-game or prior to...]
BTW - I had been tinkering with Iobaria maps [published ones] but seems I can't post them on the boards without breaching copyright issues. I'm happy to try and rustle up some or can email them as/when necessary? Anyone else overcome this problem...???
Oh and advice on combat maps would be greatfully recieved. Apologies for all the questions!
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
drayen could have face-like qualities as either the Houndmaster or Savage Skald.
Beastmorph is indeed from UC - lets you take on animal qualities (as per Beast Shape spell) when you drink your mutagen. I fear for our enemies... at low levels especially, Meowzebub will likely outdamage me.
Skirnir:
Basically a shield focused magus.
Gives up one spell per level, but can wield shields with no arcane spell failure.
Can use the arcane pool to boost the shield with enhantments like a weapon.
Can spellstrike through a shield bash.
At 4th gets to use the shield to help cast defensively.
Good luck with the maps, might be worth askin' the Cap'n for pointers as well.
With regards the Savage Skald i planned to make Skane [my Ulfen Shielded Fighter in another game] a SS before the bard slot went. My biggest gripe was the bard weapons weren't that "savage" so am open to "vikinging" up any Weapon Proficiencies [should Drayen still consider the class - tho' Houndmaster is very cool indeed]
Good to know as a group you'll be a damage buzzsaw (runs off to hastily re-design low-level encounters :)
Aye will head over and ask the Cap'n, see what pearls o' wisdom he can provide.
Male Human (Ulfen) Barbarian 3 (Invulnerable Rager archetype)
Do we need a face? - we could probably get by on deed alone, and could still rustle up some decent Diplo bonuses if we use aid another, etc.
Or alternatively I can re-jig my trait selection to get Diplo as a class skill...
New Cavalier Orders:
Blue Rose - promoters of peace.... likely not much use in this PbP ;)
Seal - protectors of secrets: gets defensive bonuses mostly
Tome - preservation of knowledge: get knowledge skills and can use scrolls at 8th level
Cav Archetypes:
Beast Rider - can ride a mastodon at level 4...
Emissary - mobility focus
Gendarme - charge focus
Honor Guard - basically a bodyguard
Luring Cavalier - range weapon focus
Musketeer
Standard Bearer - boosts standard and delays mount to 5th level
Strategist - focus on the teamwork feats
Do we need a face? - we could probably get by on deed alone, and could still rustle up some decent Diplo bonuses if we use aid another, etc.
True. The folk o' Iobaria are pretty stoic and insular anyway so deed may well outweigh silver tongue...
@ Drayen: In addition to party face, you forgot party healer, strategist, main frontline fighter AND leader... tis a heavy burden the Great Bear carries... ;)
@ Drayen: In addition to party face, you forgot party healer, strategist, main frontline fighter AND leader... tis a heavy burden the Great Bear carries... ;)
Yes, but I bear my burden with silent stoicism.
I must admit that Beast Rider sounds mighty interesting. Oh, so many choices.
Male Human Ranger Hunter (Outlander)/4, HP: 31/31, AC: 16 , Saves: STR +3, DEX +6, Initiative: +4, Perception: +6
OK...have to call Bull Shat on Bjorn being any of those things in Randall's game! Besides, I can't understand a damn word he says! LOL!
@DM O' The North: I read the Falcolner archetype, and I am undecided. I may stick with the Guide because it fits the PbP so well to have someone familiar with the area. I guess that I could use the Falconer and still keep that background for use as a Ioarian guide with a Gyrfalcon?
