DM Brainiac's War for the Crown: Table 1 (Inactive)

Game Master Brainiac

"That makes sense." Melodie agrees. "I think we have to call him from up here, unless Zil you can get us all to fall down the side of the keep slowly? There is a spell for that isn't there?"

I propose we all go back to the top and let Sara yell at him - see what happens. We can probably take the elemental before his people get here and it should be a good defensive position if we have to.

"Feather fall? Not the kind of magic that I can do," says Zileska.

"Most of my specialty magic is very... one-on-one," she continues. "I don't know that I have much that I can do to affect a large group like this."

Sara sits down for a few minutes to prepare, doing up her hair and makeup more dramatically than she's become used to, pulling her lengthy black hair up into the tall bun from the Gala, stepping back into the image of a woman she has abandoned being.

She pumps some perfume and reaches into her purse for a necklace and a few more rings, looking expensive rather than just beautiful.

Nervous but confident, she walks out of his chambers and onto the castle balustrade. She leans dramatically against the battlement wall before calling out to him. "Ho, Pythareus! How long has it been? Only a few months ago, you expressed to me that my crimes were beyond morality. Is that how you see yourself, oh leader of men? Are we just two souls, doing evil to protect our families?"

She begins to descend down the ramparts, trusting that no one will shoot her until Pythareus gives the order.

"I think you learned the wrong lesson from my morality tale," she chides, playfully. "I started with the full intention of providing for my family, yes, but it became about me. How can I, benefit myself, push myself forward. Don't let yourself get caught in the same trap as I did, Max."

She beckons to him, warm, welcoming. "Come inside and talk with me. I'm sure this can be equitable."

Diplomacy, Ring of Terrible Cost, Charm Rank 5: 1d20 + 42 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 42 + 5 + 2 = 69

Diplomanced.

The assembled soldiers raise their crossbow, but the High Strategos holds his hand up to forestall their attack. A cold smile spreads across his face as he listens to Sara's words. "Miss Burke, so lovely to see you again. I understand you have made quite the reputation for yourself of late. Rather impressive, for a woman. But I think you would benefit from remembering where it is you came from and stayed in your proper place."

Mockery: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (12) + 20 = 32

Seeing Sara nonplussed by his cutting remarks, he tries again. "You are nothing but a low-born hooligan putting on airs. I am Maxillar Pythareus, the latest in a long line of military commanders and war heroes. My ancestors include Admiral Arminus Pythareus, whose fleet attacked Absalom 800 years ago, and Colonel Sarius Pythareus, who earned the moniker 'Lion of Zimar' when he led the attack to liberate the oppressed people of Zimar during the Grand Campaign. I was always destined for greatness, and once I deal with you and your meddling princess, I will be the next Grand Prince of Taldor!"

Presence: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (8) + 20 = 28
Edge Reroll: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (14) + 20 = 34

A verbal duel has begun! Sara won the first exchange, reducing Pythareus's determination by 1. He has started the next exchange. Anybody may respond.

Each of the following bits of information revealed to the soldiers or Maxillar Pythareus grants the PCs 1 edge: Milon Jeroth’s nature as a rakshasa, Milon Jeroth’s letter to the Immaculate Circle, the Sisters of Indulgent Dreams’ identities as night hags, the PCs’ training and blessing of the Lion Blades, and Maxillar’s letter ordering the Seven Forms of Sin to assassinate Princess Eutropia. Finally, if the PCs reveal the dagger Maxillar’s father used to kill Tae Amalon, they automatically reduce his determination by 8 by shaking Maxillar’s core confidence.

I'd like to take this second round as well, will edit this post with my follow up

Missed the edit deadline by one minute ugh, luckily I wrote it on Google Docs

"This is the folly of nobles," she says, unhurt and unphased by Pythareus' crude remarks. "You mistake birth and privilege for power. No real person cares about your ancestry. Pedigree is purely masturbatory, and it serves no one. I know where I come from too, Max, and I can tell you exactly what it gave me. My father was the bastard son of a fishmonger and he avoided work and responsibility like the plague. He battered and abused my mother until she could no longer work, beat me and my brothers without relent, and died bitter, unloved and unmourned. When he died, I sold his body to a necromancer at his own funeral. Do you remember how much it got me?"

She reaches into her purse and pulls five platinum pieces from the bottom of the bag.

"Fifty gold. There's quite a bit more I can do with fifty gold than I could with some fancy names and a big ego."

She drops the coins from one hand to another, then again, and again, letting the gentle clink-clink-clink form a rhythm and beat behind her words.

"That should be enough to cover transport and enrollment in the Kitharodian Academy, for example, except wait, I forgot. I've already been there. Me. Trained and blessed by the Lion's Blades. That's right, Max. The Lion's Blades have sided against you. Not no one believes in you or your small, pathetic cause, no matter how many of your grandparents you can name."

Mockery: 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (1) + 30 = 31
Edge Reroll: 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (18) + 30 = 48

+5 if I can Flex into Intimidating Prowess, as asked in the Discussion thread

You can use Intimidating Prowess.

Pythareus weathers Sara's mockery well, though the revelation that the Lion Blades have supported her gives him pause. He hesitates long enough that the soldiers shift uncomfortably, looking to their commander for guidance.

Sara wins that exchange. Pythareus' determination is at 23/27. Beginning new exchange:

"I do not need the Lion Blades. I command the might of the entire Taldan army. A ruler is nothing without the power to secure his rule. The Imperialists are winning. We have prevailed in every skirmish against your so-called Loyalist troops. It is only a matter of time before we march into Oppara and claim the capital for our own."

Rhetoric: 1d20 + 20 ⇒ (9) + 20 = 29

Ante is 1. Anybody may respond.

"Your army? Interesting you should mention that." Melodie responds calmly. "Loyal to you for your honour and military prowess no doubt General. You are the archetypal soldier, facing his enemies on the battlefield and defeating them man to man - I'm sure that's what you want them to believe? What would they say if they knew their general was a spoiled child, who helped his father murder his teacher, simply because the woman dared to criticise him? I imagine they'd want proof. Proof like a dagger, carved with the family sigil and found with part of the blade still embedded in the victim's corpse perhaps? How would they react then General? I imagine shock, anger, disappointment." She's playing to the crowd as much as the general, but theatrically brandishing the dagger seems to be a good tactic either way.

Emotional Appeal, Perform Oratory: 1d20 + 19 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 19 + 2 = 26
Reroll using Circlet Edge: 1d20 + 19 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 19 + 2 = 34

Calculated Pythareus's bonuses wrong. They should be 2 lower.

Pythareus pales slightly at the sight of the fateful dagger. "Wh-where did you get that?" he stammers, momentarily shaken. Then his scowl deepens as he recovers from the shock. "You are one to talk, Melodie d'Valois. Bastard daughter of a vile monster! Manipulative hagspawn! I've heard the rumors of your scuffle outside of Dalaston. Did you live up to your mother's expectations, I wonder? Was she proud of you when you committed matricide? I can only imagine such a heinous act would leave an indelible stain on your already corrupted soul."

Baiting: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (6) + 18 = 24
Edge Rerolls: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (9) + 18 = 271d20 + 18 ⇒ (20) + 18 = 38

Ante is at 4! Melodie is up.

Pythareus Determination 15/27.

"Really Pythareus?" Melodie snaps in return. "I defended myself when attacked, by a monster that I no more recognise as a parent than you would? You say you have 'heard' of my being attacked - concrete proof indeed when I have not only the weapon used but also the testimony of the deceased and witnesses to prove it!"

Presence: 1d20 + 22 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 22 + 2 = 35
Edge Reroll: 1d20 + 22 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 22 + 2 = 30
Edge Reroll: 1d20 + 22 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 22 + 2 = 44

Take that General! :D

A murmur of discontent ripples through the soldiers. It's enough to throw Pythareus off, and it's clear that Melodie is the winner of this exchange.

"I have made... regrettable choices in the past. But let's look at the facts," the High Strategos says, attempting to regroup. "Grand Prince Stavian III formally adopted me in a legally binding ceremony. It was witnessed and notarized by the church of Abadar. I am his rightful heir, not Princess Eutropia. By law, the Primogen Crown belongs to me."

Logic: 1d20 + 18 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 18 + 2 = 27

Ante 1. Anybody may respond.

Pythareus Determination 10/27.

"And by decree of the senate Primogeniture has been lifted, paving the way for all children of the Emperor to inherit in turn." Melodie replies, happy to see the exchanges moving away from her parentage. "An adopted heir comes after a blood heir, that has and always will be the case in Taldor. Unless you'd prefer to overthrow those traditions which you so proudly trumpet. That's a good image actually for you Pythareus - a trumpet, a lot of noise and hot air comes out, but its not much good in a crisis."

Wit: 1d20 + 13 - 2 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 13 - 2 + 2 = 29

"The princess is a spoiled child. She has no business ruling an empire as vast as ours. I am the Grand Prince this nation deserves. I will bring us back to the glories of old, and make Taldor great again!" Pythareus says.

Rhetoric: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (12) + 18 = 30

Ante at 3. Melodie is up.

"Women have no business ruling?" Melodie asks, her shock not entirely affected. She turns to the soldiers, relying on them to be a more sympathetic audience for her point. "How many of you are married? How many of you still hold fond memories of coming home after a long day to the support and comfort of your wife or mother? How many of you have children and delight in seeing them grow up healthy and happy? These things couldn't happen without women! You might say that these are 'womanly things' and that it is suitable for them to be good at it, but I'll wager you still jump and do the dishes when you're told to!" She lets them laugh for a moment or two before waving them down. "Women can command as well as men. General Pythareus says the princess is a spoiled child - I say she is a Stavian, trained to lead. How can this man claim to be the Grand Prince this nation deserves when he ignores half of it? If he is the Prince we deserve then I weep for Taldor!"

Melodie finishes her speech with real tears rolling down her cheeks - this is no mean performance.

Emotional Appeal: 1d20 + 19 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 19 - 2 = 37

Pythareus laughs derisively. "Yes, weep, woman! It's what your gender is best at, after all. You are far too emotional to hold the fate of an empire in your hands! While you sob and wring your hands, men like me take action!"

Mockery: 1d20 + 18 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 18 + 2 = 26
Edge Reroll: 1d20 + 18 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 18 + 2 = 32

The mutters of the High Strategos's soldiers get louder. Several of them shake their heads with disgust at the general's misogynistic comments.

Pythareus Determination 4/27!

Realizing the tide is turning against him, Pythareus becomes angry. "Oh, what, you agree with these women? You would see Taldor fall to ruin in the hands of a weak princess? War is coming, mark my words! The old tensions with Qadira are bubbling to the surface, and I am the only thing that can stand in their way! Without me, the desert-dwelling horse people will take your homes from you! Your families! They are ruthless barbarians who care nothing for human life! Is that the future you envision for our empire?"

Rhetoric: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (18) + 18 = 36

Ante is 1. Anybody may respond.

Zhi watches the exchange in silence, knowing the others are much better with words than she could ever be. Only when Melodie's heritage is brought up does she show emotion. It seems to take all her willpower to avoid falling back on her strengths.

"Weakness?" Zhi's quiet voice speaks up, finally. "So that's still what this comes down to? Women are weak and shouldn't rule?"

She shakes her head. "You know nothing of strength, Pythareus. Every single one of you - including you General - was brought into this world by the strength of a woman. The strength to bear through pain that would leave any of you weeping. And she bore it for love. Love. Love gives you the strength to bear anything for those you care for. And Princess Eutropia loves this country. You don't love it, General, you just love the power that it will bring you. You see it as some kind of destiny to fuel your ego. That's not the type of ruler we need."

She's walking into a mindfield, but she couldn't not say something.

Emotional Appeal: 1d20 + 16 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 16 + 2 = 24

Pythareus chuckles and shakes his head. In his eyes, at least, Zhi's emotional outburst just proved his point. His resolve strengthens.

You lose 2 points of determination. Any one of you may begin the next exchange.

Sara turns to face the gathered army. "Taldor is built upon the abuse and exploitation of us, the Unbearded. You and I, all of us, we are just pawns for our regional lords and ladies. We've been fed and sold a lie that if we work hard enough or perform our duties well enough, we'll be noticed, uplifted. But nobility needs us to have any strength, any power. They have stolen it from us or lied outright to convince us to lend it to them, but we can take it back. We can take it right now. Leave your master, abandon him, and in doing so, sieze this power! In these moments, he has shown himself a coward, a hypocrite and unworthy to rule. You owe him nothing. Each of you would lay your life down for him, but do you think for a second that he would act in kind? If the entire army were to die unless Pythareus were to sacrifice himself, he would never put others before him. He is too proud, petty, selfish and ignoble. Take your power back, and remind the nobility that without us, they are nothing."

Rhetoric: 1d20 + 42 ⇒ (11) + 42 = 53

It won't be +42 Sara, I imagine you're +20 (12 ranks, +5 Cha, +3 class) and something like 7 edges. You only count skill ranks, class bonus and cha mod. Also, -4 for having won two exchanges!

Sorry.

"Do not listen to her! I am your commanding officer. I am the High Strategos of Taldor! Serve me and share in glory, or rebel and fall to shame!"

Presence: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (19) + 18 = 37

Ante 2. Sara is up. Check your bonuses as Melodie said. :)

"I'm honestly surprised he hasn't just interrupted and talked over us yet," mutters Zileska.

Do trait bonuses play nice?

Taking a breath to feel her strength bolstering her Flex into Intimidating Prowess again, Sara leers at Pythareus. "What authority have you? If one leaves, if two leaves, they are rebels, but if everyone leaves, it means the people have recognized you are not worthy to rule. We decide this, Pythareus, we control our own fates. That's why you lord your supposed birthright and authority around, because you know it means nothing. You are weak and scared. At any second, these men could abandon you, and you would be powerless."

Mockery, Intimidating Prowess: 1d20 + 20 + 5 - 4 ⇒ (8) + 20 + 5 - 4 = 29
Edge Reroll, Lion Cloak+Luckstone: 1d20 + 25 - 4 ⇒ (16) + 25 - 4 = 37

What do we do in the case of a tie? I can't find any answers in the rules

"I suppose he believes in a fair turnabout," Sara murmurs back at Zileska.

"All his playing at being noble."

Pythareus seems inured to Sara's mockery, taking some of the punch out of her words.

Ties go to the defender, but he has a bias against mockery, so you take another -2 to the check. You can use more edges to reroll if you want but you would have to get at least a 19 on the die, or accept the loss of 3 determination and start a new exchange.

Edge Rerolls, Circlet of Persuasion, Persuasive Feat, Miloth is a Rakshasa, Hags, Kill the Princess: 6d20 ⇒ (17, 12, 18, 13, 2, 20) = 82

Her eyes narrow farther as Pythareus refuses to even acknowledge her. "You hypocritical swine. You speak of loyalty and claim that we consort with hags when not only is the reverse true for you, your Sisters of the Immaculate Dreams, but worse than that; your spymaster was a rakshasa and you sent assassins to kill the Princess. All this talk of honor, and it gives you nothing. You are not worth following."

"What? Jeroth was a rakshasa?" Pythareus says, frowning in concern. "He convinced me that the assasins were necessary. It seems I was deceived by a trusted ally, then. This is news to me... And I know not of these Sisters..."

He trails off, conceding the exchange. His soldiers' loyalty is visibly wavering.

A curious look crosses his face as he looks up at Sara. "Miss Burke, despite our differences in ideology, I was always quite taken with you. We have come a long way from the Exaltation Gala. If you change your mind about this whole princess nonsense, there's a place for you at my side."

Flattery: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (7) + 18 = 25

Ante 1. Anybody may respond. Pythareus determination 1/27!

Rhetoric: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (10) + 18 = 28

Zileska sashays up behind Sara and slides her arms around the warrior's waist. She presses against her from behind and her head peeks out over by Sara's arm as she says, "Princess 'nonsense'? Clearly this isn't 'nonsense' or there wouldn't be a war over it and you wouldn't be in the midst of this conflict. And I daresay that telling this woman that you are taken with her but you don't agree with her ideology is nigh unto insulting. She is not merely an object for you to appreciate, but a vibrant, powerful personality working hard to improve the lives of all the people of the Empire - from the simplest soldier to the hardest-working farmer. Dismissing her ideology is telling her that you care only for her as a trophy, and that her aspirations and dreams are worthless."

Zileska cranes her head up to look up at Sara and says, "I love your passion and your drive, your commitment and your liberation. Because you're not just a pretty face, but a storm of revolution against oppression, and a shield against the perils that put this Empire on the brink. And most of all that you put yourself on the line for this, without asking other people to risk suffering and dying for you. You have the true courage of your convictions."

Baiting: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (4) + 18 = 22

Pythareus rolls his eyes. "Ah yes, the priestess of Calistria. Because she's a force for stabilization. Eutropia certainly has chosen strange bedfellows--perhaps literally."

The High Strategos sighs. "Very well, you have made your points. It seems that Taldor is headed down a different direction, abandoning centuries of tradition in favor of radical revisionism. If that's case, I want no part of it. Leave Zimar at once. I will call off my operations in Qadira and abandon my claim to the Primogen Throne. But I will not surrender myself to you, and I will never acknowledge Eutropia as the rightful heir to the throne."

You have won the duel!

"We appreciate you acknowledging that you have no place on the throne," Zhi says with false sincerity. "However, we have been charged by the Lion Blades - who protect the very throne itself - to place you under arrest for your crimes. They see you as the real threat to the stability of the country."

"They may choose to let you go on your way, but we don't have that option."

"Calling off your operations in Qadira? You mean the false flag operations you've been deliberately running purely to ferment war? The operations that are probably responsible for there even being tension with Qadira recently? If maintaining traditions means plunging Taldor into a war that will leave thousands - maybe even tens of thousands - dead purely to reclaim lost glories, then perhaps those traditions should be abandoned."

"How exactly would that help the nation in the long run? A whole generation of soldiers slain in war?"

As Maria brings up the false flag operations and the rumblings of Qadiran war, Zileska makes air quotes and mouths "stability."

Sara blushes at Zileska's words and gives her a big ol' kiss. "There was never anything between us, Max. I'm a lesbian."

"And a very good one at that."

"You wouldn't understand," Pythareus says to Maria. "Sometimes you need to break a few eggs to make the crust for a victory pie."

The general narrows his eyes at the kiss between Sara and Zileska. "Of course you are," he mutters,

To Zhi, he raises his lance. "You will not take me without a fight! Take up your arms, men!"

There is no response. He turns to look at his soldiers, who stand with arms crossed and stern expressions on their faces. "Cowards! This is treason!" he bellows. "Fine, I will fight you myself!"

Sara and Zileska may act before Pythareus! He's about 40 feet away and 40 feet below you, mounted on his horse.

Zileska points and says, "You brought this upon yourself!"

Casting major curse. DC 20 Will save to resist, otherwise, -6 Strength permanently.

In all honesty, there are at least a couple of the ladies that won't be happy with just slapping him around. ;)

Sara waves the Standard of Conquest, calling all to a charge! She barrels down towards Pythareus, slapping him in the face and spitting in his eye, openly displaying her disrespect for the man.

Battle charge gives us all flight, +20 to base speed, Greater Heroism, no penalty to AC for charging, as long as we stay within 60 feet of each other

Unarmed Strike, GH, Charge, PA: 1d20 + 18 + 4 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (16) + 18 + 4 + 2 - 4 = 36
Nonlethal Damage: 1d6 + 5 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 5 + 8 = 17
Serpentine Dirty Trick, Blind, GH, Charge, PA: 1d20 + 26 + 4 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 26 + 4 + 2 - 4 = 48
Enforcer Intimidate: 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (2) + 30 = 32 +5 if less than one minute has passed since my last Verbal Duel round

Will: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27
AoO (Combat Reflexes): 1d20 + 25 ⇒ (8) + 25 = 331d8 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17
Lance,PA: 1d20 + 21 ⇒ (6) + 21 = 271d20 + 17 ⇒ (20) + 17 = 371d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27
Miss: 1d100 ⇒ 201d100 ⇒ 141d100 ⇒ 16
Horse Bite, Hooves: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (4) + 14 = 181d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 271d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27
Damage: 2d6 + 6 ⇒ (1, 4) + 6 = 11

Pythareus resists the curse. He stabs Sara with his lance as she closes with him, but then she blinds him with her dirty trick! "Argh! I fight for honor!" he declares, challenging her. But all of his strikes miss since he can't see! His horse fares better, kicking Sara twice!

28 total damage to Sara. Everybody is up!

Zhi snaps off the words for one of her spells and then sails down to flank the blinded general with preternatural speed.

haste

move action to fly down and draw weapons.

Current Effects: mage armor, Arcane Strike, haste - 9 rounds
Koriana's Blade: +4 AC, +1 AC to Sara
Current AC: 25

Zileska continues providing support.

Blessing of fervor!

Melodie, well supported by her allies magic, calmly steps off the balcony and descends as though she was walking down a flight of stairs.

"Your time is done Pythareus. Stand down!" She says sternly, voice ringing with authority.

Hold Monster on Pythareus, DC25 will, -4 on saves, attack rolls, SR/spells etc

Will: 1d20 + 13 - 4 ⇒ (17) + 13 - 4 = 26

Pythareus barely shrugs off Melodie's spell!

Maria and Sara are up.

Concentrating on Pythareus' movements, Maria dove into the fray as she felt the magic from Zhi and the banner settling in.

Swift to activate Studied Combat, Move to get into melee with Pythareus, Standard to attack.

Studied Attack: 1d20 + 25 ⇒ (1) + 25 = 26
Damage: 1d6 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18

-insert Laura Bailey-esque string of swearing-

Sara punches the man in the stomach to try and sicken him, following it up with a supernaturally hastened series of kicks to his thigh.

To Hit, OF, Haste, BoF, BF: 1d20 + 18 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 18 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 = 25
Nonlethal Damage: 1d6 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6
Serpentine Dirty Trick, Sicken: 1d20 + 26 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (1) + 26 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 = 32
Enforcer Intimidate: 1d20 + 30 ⇒ (1) + 30 = 31
Heel, OF, Haste, BoF, BF, PA: 1d20 + 20 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (3) + 20 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 = 241d20 + 20 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (7) + 20 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 = 281d20 + 15 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 15 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 = 361d20 + 10 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (14) + 10 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 = 25
Damage: 1d4 + 6 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 6 + 8 = 181d4 + 6 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 6 + 8 = 171d4 + 6 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 6 + 8 = 15
Crit Confirm: 1d20 + 15 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (2) + 15 + 4 + 1 + 2 - 2 - 4 = 18

Despite his blindness, Pythareus weathers Sara and Maria's assault well. Sara only lands one good kick to his thigh, the general's armor and shield protecting him from further harm.

He assaults Sara again, and despite his blindness, manages to stab her once with his lance. His mount bites and kicks her!

Lance, PA, Stare, Shaken: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (14) + 15 = 291d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 261d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19
Miss Chance: 1d100 ⇒ 351d100 ⇒ 57
Damage, PA, Challenge: 1d8 + 31 ⇒ (1) + 31 = 32
Horse Full Attack: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (18) + 14 = 321d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 261d20 + 12 ⇒ (7) + 12 = 19
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 71d6 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

44 total damage to Sara. Everybody is up!

It's clear that Zhi is making no effort at all to take the man alive as she stabs at him with her blades.

BoF: +2 attack/+2 AC/+2 Reflex

Rapier Attack: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 12 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 = 31 haste, outflank, blessing of fervor, greater heroism
Rapier Damage: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 2 = 15 arcane strike
Sneak Attack Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (6, 1, 2, 3) = 12

Rapier Attack: 1d20 + 12 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 12 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 = 26 haste, outflank, blessing of fervor, greater heroism
Rapier Damage: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 2 = 11 arcane strike
Sneak Attack Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (5, 3, 2, 2) = 12

Rapier Attack: 1d20 + 7 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 = 20 haste, outflank, blessing of fervor, greater heroism
Rapier Damage: 1d6 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 7 + 2 = 11 arcane strike
Sneak Attack Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (2, 3, 1, 6) = 12

Koriana's Blade Attack: 1d20 + 8 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 ⇒ (10) + 8 + 1 + 4 + 2 + 4 = 29 haste, outflank, blessing of fervor, greater heroism
Korian's Blade Damage: 1d6 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6 arcane strike
Sneak Attack Damage: 4d6 ⇒ (2, 5, 5, 6) = 18

well that was a sucky set of attack rolls.

Current Effects: mage armor, Arcane Strike, haste - 8 rounds, blessing of fervor, greater heroism
Koriana's Blade: +4 AC, +1 AC to Sara
Current AC: 27

Edited to reflect greater heroism.

Wow, even with the -2 and loss of his DEX bonus from blind, his AC is higher than 28? F&$& this a#+&@$+. Also oof, I'm hurtin

Tired of getting bit and stomped on, Sara yanks the godsdamned horse's hood over its eyes and slaps Pythareus again in the face, this time taking the time to loop the reins around his chest, entangling him. She finishes again with a series of kicks to his thigh and calls out. "Zileska, babe? I would really appreciate a little stick poking right now."

Quick Dirty Trick, Blind, OF, Haste, BoF, GH, BF: 1d20 + 26 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (12) + 26 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 47
Unarmed Strike: 1d20 + 18 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (8) + 18 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 35
Damage: 1d6 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
Serpentine Dirty Trick Entangle: 1d20 + 26 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (6) + 26 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 41
To Hit, Heel, OF, Haste, BoF, GH, BF: 1d20 + 20 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 20 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 471d20 + 15 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (4) + 15 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 281d20 + 10 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 ⇒ (7) + 10 + 4 + 1 + 2 + 4 - 2 = 26
Damage: 1d4 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 101d4 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8

If that worked, entangle should lower his AC by another 2, cause blind doesn't remove penalties to DEX.

EDIT: Oh heck, I forgot last round about Greater Heroism's +4 to hit. Zhi, Maria, don't forget it applies to you, too. With the +4 and the lower AC, maybe more of your attacks will land, Zhi, :)

Edited my post to reflect GH

Welcome to the game! I look forward to a fun campaign.

Some notes:

I will roll passive Perception checks for your characters when the situation calls for them. To speed things along in combat, I will roll initiative for everybody. Those whose initiative scores are higher than the enemies can post their actions, I'll summarize the results and the enemies' actions, then everybody can post for the following round's actions.

I am usually online weekdays between 4:00 AM and noon, and can check in sporadically the rest of the afternoon. I can usually post a few times each day during the week, but my access is limited on the weekends.

As a heads up, my wife and I are expecting the birth of our second child in July. When that happens, I'll likely not be able to post much for a month or so until I return to work, at which point I will be able to resume regular posting in the mornings, though my afternoon posts will likely drop off after that.

The gameplay thread is up. You may begin posting when you are ready.

*pulls her folded whip taut out of habit*

Hello and greetings and thank you!

Wow I am glad and excited to have been chosen! Anyone interested in having backstory ties?

Always! Maria Grayson and I have a connection in that she interviewed me for a case about a year ago while studying with her father. Given your backstory it's entirely possible that Maria was tied in with the investigation that broke up Hare's organization and landed you in jail; conversely as a priestess it's possible that I was peripherally involved as someone Hare defrauded from laying the dead to rest.

I like both of those.

Just having ran through everyone's backstories, other easy options are the bar I'm presently living in is the same one Maria mentions in her backstory (the empty one ran by a guy named Edmund); Zhi and Melodie, Sara likely met at parties, eager to gain the attention of a both noble and a princess.

Hello all.

Zhi has a connection with Maria as well. Zhi hire her to search for her father which was unsuccessful.

I think I'll let any other relationships form organically.

On to the fun ...

Incidentally, @Sara, your stats in your Sheet spoiler (Str 16, Dex 11, Con 14, Int 13, Wis 7, Cha 16) don't match your stats in your main alias (Str 18, Dex 11, Con 14, Int 13, Wis 7, Cha 14).

It might be best if we don't all know each other already - that would be a very weird coincidence - but it's not a big deal.

I guess depending on preferences any PC might also be a former client of Zileska.

Incidentally, @Sara, your stats in your Sheet spoiler (Str 16, Dex 11, Con 14, Int 13, Wis 7, Cha 16) don't match your stats in your main alias (Str 18, Dex 11, Con 14, Int 13, Wis 7, Cha 14).

Fixed, thank you.

I'm happy to do background links with anyone who wants to, but loads of my background is still up in the air until I can pick a campaign trait and tie down exactly what has happened to Melodie - I think she's probably now (and only recently) aware that she is not human, which means meeting her mother but the circumstances... the circumstances!

We'll work it out eventually! :)

In fact, having read other peoples backgrounds - Sara, are you open to us knowing each other, at least by name? I'm thinking Melodie's mother and Hare might have been linked in some way...

@Brainiac: Thanks for the selection, always a pleasure to play in your games and congrats on the forthcoming little-one!

I'm open to any other connections you might want but I'm kind of in the same boat as Melodie - no idea how Maria would've gotten involved or what re-writes the appropriate campaign trait might entail. At the moment, I feel like Taldan Patriot would work but I just don't know.

Goddamn flu; why'd you have to hit Paizo so hard this time?

EDIT: And speaking of Traits, I only just realised I hadn't selected any traits for Maria. Just gave her Civilized (+1 on Know Local and Know Nobility, both are always class skills for her) so that's that fixed.

In fact, having read other peoples backgrounds - Sara, are you open to us knowing each other, at least by name? I'm thinking Melodie's mother and Hare might have been linked in some way...

Yes, I'm down. Burke and Hare, unlike their real life counterparts, were less of a team and more of an employer/employee sort of deal, but Sara was still his top man, more out of longevity than any real talent for the trade.

Sara was at this for six years or so, I like the idea of her recognizing her from when "Mel" was like 13 and being shocked at how she'd grown, etc.

Melodie d'Valois wrote:

In fact, having read other peoples backgrounds - Sara, are you open to us knowing each other, at least by name? I'm thinking Melodie's mother and Hare might have been linked in some way...

Sara was at this for six years or so, I like the idea of her recognizing her from when "Mel" was like 13 and being shocked at how she'd grown, etc.

This is going to be fun! :) Sara can protect Melodie right? Fragile might as well be her middle name...

Sara Burke wrote:

Melodie d'Valois wrote:

In fact, having read other peoples backgrounds - Sara, are you open to us knowing each other, at least by name? I'm thinking Melodie's mother and Hare might have been linked in some way...

Sara was at this for six years or so, I like the idea of her recognizing her from when "Mel" was like 13 and being shocked at how she'd grown, etc.

This is going to be fun! :) Sara can protect Melodie right? Fragile might as well be her middle name...

Stop, you're playing at my heart strings, that's cute

Melodie will take cute - her skills are certainly NOT in the realm of hitting people/things :)

Hey DM, before we get much further, do you have a ruling about retraining traits? My trait gives me an ability that you can also get from taking Greater Whip Mastery, which I plan to take, but that's many levels down the road. Ideally I'd like to retrain out of the trait at a future date. If that's not possible (there are technically no retraining rules for traits), then I'd prefer to just swap it now.

I'll let you retrain your trait for a modest price when you get to that point.

Dropping my math here for what Sara grabs. She grabs from the box, twice and at random, 1 getting her Liquid Blade, 2 3 4 a smoke pellet, 5 the soul stim, 6 the dust.

City Map of Oppara

I'll post a link to this map in the campaign tab, along with a growing list of Dramatis Personae to help you keep track of the many NPCs you will meet.

To paraphrase what we need

"senatorial aide to provide a cover for the rest of you and to run communications between allied politicians"

Escape Artist or combat maneuver checks

"uncover the true dedication of ... Duke Centimus and Countess Abrielle Pace. Find out what stance ... and why each noble holds that position."

Perception or Sense Motive checks

"discredit a few prominent senators backing primogeniture ... to undercut their influence ... identify one of the major opponents ... spread rumors about or manufacturing damning evidence"

Sense Motive and either Bluff or Linguistics

"strong impression on Baron Nicolaus Okerra and remind him of certain debts he owes me"

socially influencing the baron or Intimidate checks.

"retribution against my more powerful half-brothers ... petty revenge ... render the wine embarrassingly undrinkable. Be careful not to steal the bottle and to conceal any signs of tampering; it must be drunk at dinner"

Appraise or Knowledge (nobility) and Disable Device checks.

"tabs on my political rivals ... most notably High Strategos Maxillar Pythareus. ... stay close ... watching for unusual behavior or listening"

Perception or Sense Motive checks, as well as either Disguise or Stealth checks.

"Earl Calhadion Vernisant ... artifacts ... vanish"

Sleight of Hand checks.

Score comparison (only counting plusses, and not ones, twos, zeros or minuses):

Aide:

CMB: Sara +4.
Escape Artist: Zhi +10, Zileska +6.

Stalking Nobles:

Perception: Melodie +7, Zileska +5, Maria, Zhi +4.
Sense Motive: Melodie +7, Maria, Zhi +4, Sara, Zileska +3.

Rumor Mill:

Sense Motive: Melodie +7, Maria, Zhi +4, Sara, Zileska +3.
Bluff: Melodie +8 or +13, Sara +7, Maria, Zhi, Zileska +6
Linguistics: N/A, trained only.

Racketeering, Arguably:

Diplomacy: Zileska +9, Melodie +7, Maria, Zhi +6, Sara +3
Intimidate: Melodie, Sara +7.

Wine:

Appraise: Zhi +6, Maria +3.
Know (Nobility): Melodie +6, Zhi +3.
Disable Device: Zhi +11, Maria +6.

Stalking Rivals:

Perception: Melodie +7, Zileska +5, Maria, Zhi +4.
Sense Motive: Melodie +7, Maria, Zhi +4, Sara, Zileska +3.
Disguise: Zhi +6.
Stealth: Zhi +10, Maria +6.

Artifacts:

Sleight of Hand: Zhi +11, Maria +6, Sara +3.

All in all, we are all well suited for a variety of tasks.

Melodie is very much a social situations girl, so Stalking and Rumour Mill are probably the best place for me to focus my efforts...

I'd lean toward Aide and Stalking, as mentioned IC.

My next post will be a large one, so it will have to wait until the morning!

By the way, here are the senate rules:

Martella gives you a rundown of the senate rules:

I have a feeling that I'm trying to go at this a little too directly.

It looks like we have to 'soften up' each area to make it easier/possible to accomplish out tasks. It would probably be best to focus on the skills presented for the areas. In which case, Zhi would most definitely not be the best solution for the Servant Area.

Aaaannnnddd everyone else probably realized that already.

Yes, that makes me Captain Obvious.

Nothing to see here - move along.

I've made the map of the senate editable in Google Slides so you can move your icons to the different parts of the building. The grassy area south of the building will stand in for the gallery since it doesn't appear on the map. I'll also put icons for each of the NPCs to show their locations. Have to find some good art for Pythareus and Okerra, since none is provided in the first adventure.

I'd suggest we team up and try to hit one or two areas hard, get ourselves up to the thresh-holds, and then we can move on to doing our specific tasks - no point in missing out the groundwork.

To that end I'll go with Zhi for now, try and help with the kitchen staff first.

Why do I feel like campaign traits would be good right about now?

They would probably help you out. Hopefully it won't be too much longer until the player's guide is released!

When I finally corner this guy can I monologue at him? I got a good one

Sure can! You'll have more opportunities to interact with him later in the evening.

How many rounds do we need to accomplish everything in?

The gala is expected to last 4 hours before the vote takes place, so you'll have a total of 16 social rounds to get stuff done.

I don't know what else I can do. DM, you said I could try alternative means of discovery, but I don't know any other skills that I can use, your big intro post to the scene says it's either Knowledge (nobility) or Sense Motive, both of which I have no ranks in; so as far as I can tell there is no way for me to participate in this scene.

You could try performing one of the other tasks, or work on influencing the different areas. Or just guess at a skill to try to influence an NPC--Diplomacy is a pretty common skill for most of them.

If you want, I can offer you my immediate task, your +11 beats out my +4

Sure, let's switch dance partners.

Oof, actually, I think I wanna handle this first one for Lotheed, but you can help with whatever else she needs. Like we could split the job in half. Also, just an aside, I was wrong in my recollection, you have a +6.

With Centimus done, I'll move on to the Rumour Mill for a while. :)

I just received book 2 of the AP, and with it, official art for Baron Nicolaus Okerra.

Zileska, the DC for the Escape Artist check to deliver a message is only 12, so with a roll of 7, you would succeed in your task.

Very well. Forgive me if I'm not terribly invested at the moment. The incredible streak with the die roller basically has me feeling like I essentially don't get to do anything.

I know. I'm sorry that the dice roller has been hating on you lately. Hopefully your luck will turn around soon--it's still relatively early in the evening! :)

You can come RP with Zhi and get catty about Dame Trant. ;)

Well, I'm an idiot - forgot all about this use of Inspiration: "The investigator can use inspiration on any Knowledge, Linguistics, or Spellcraft skill checks without expending a use of inspiration, provided he’s trained in the skill."

Granted, Maria doesn't have any ranks in Linguistics or Spellcraft and only one Knowledge skill, but I should really remember about that in the future.

We're nowhere near my limits, but just to check, what's the rating on our version of this adventure?

Where are our limits on language, violence, romance, sex?

Do we need to worry about it now?

Probably not, but just thought I'd bring it up.

Obviously I can "fade to black" certain kinds of content, but as a Calistrian temple prostitute there are some inherent elements baked into this character design.

Melodie is pretty sheltered - but she's also a changeling so some things are just going to 'come naturally' to her... As a player I'm not too fussed :)

My limits for such things are pretty high. Feel free to go as detailed as you'd like. :)

*flexes her whip*

Copied from the foreword to the second book:

10 Things to Know About Taldans

10. Taldans Love Wordplay. As originators of the Taldane language, Taldans understand a considerable breadth and depth of the Common tongue that even their former colonies don’t share, and fast-paced banter and clever linguistic choices are proud parts of their heritage. Even the flintiest of farmers love insightful plays on words, and a cleverly timed, crass pun can delight even the stodgiest of nobles.

9. Taldans Love Board Games. Every Taldan fancies herself a general, and so board games, strategy games, and war games are popular pastimes for everyone from gong farmers to emperors. While gambling can be fun, it leaves victory in the hands of fate—something few Taldans can stomach—and they prefer diversions that offer at least the illusion of control. While many board games—the equivalents on Golarion of agon, backgammon, chess, Parcheesi, and rithmomachy—were either invented or adopted by Taldor, just as popular are war games played out with wooden miniatures using elaborate rules.

8. First Emperor Taldaris Is the Man. Taldans are a people suffused in patriotism and a love of history, but until we published Pathfinder Campaign Setting: Taldor, The First Empire, they lacked yhe sort of founding myth typical of large (and especially old) nations. When we updated their history, we fleshed out their origins as a series of city-states united by a great leader: First Emperor Taldaris, Taldor’s own Romulus or George Washington. Like similar figures, he’s often invoked and exploited by residents: politicians insist they know what his vision for Taldor really was; tutors place him in all sorts of parables for bravery, honesty, and other virtues; and inns and estates advertise that “Taldaris slept here” to impress travelers—even though few, if any, structures in modern Taldor have survived since the First Emperor’s day.

7. Taldan Hair Is a Big Deal. Even poor households invest in quality brushes, sheers, and oils from the tea tree and argan tree to keep themselves looking and smelling good, and every family has its own secret recipe for shiny, healthy hair. Many outsiders consider this yet another example of Taldan vanity, but the truth is more complex. Taldans’ world travels have brought a wide array of parasites home over the centuries; clean hair is a simple comfort that also promotes health.

6. Taldans Will Eat Anything. You can’t be a refugee or a soldier on the march and still be a picky eater. Since the founding of their nation, Taldans have embraced a philosophy of “whatever doesn’t kill me makes me stronger,” and that very much extends to their embracing of unusual and exotic foods. For nobles, this translates to eating almost anything that walks, crawls, flies, slithers, or swims, while for commoners it more often means making a meal out of whatever parts the rich won’t eat.

5. Taldans Are Creative. Shelyn began as a Taldan god, and Taldor still reveres the arts in every form. “Anything worth doing is worth doing with a flourish,” the Taldan saying goes, and almost every citizen of the empire pursues an art in her spare time, especially music and dance. Most families have a long tradition associated with a particular skill they may turn into a business—such as painting, weaving, or woodcarving—but just as many are farmers who pluck away at their lyres after work or sing reprises from their favorite operas to make the harvest pass more quickly. Illustrated or illuminated books are especially popular, and many families record their history in books passed down and doodled in over generations.

4. Taldans Love Dogs. Taldor claims it domesticated the first dog, but then again, Taldans claim to be the first to do a lot of things. Realistically, while dogs were rare in Azlanti society, they were common among the Kellid and Garundi societies that early Taldans filtered themselves through, and dogs became companions and workers in a culture hard up for extra hands. In those first unstable centuries, Taldor bred a hundred specialty dog breeds to assist with herding, pest control, physical labor, warfare, and even kitchen work, and as the Taldans’ fortunes rose, they also bred dogs to serve purely as companions.

3. Taldans Love Pie. Since before the first Army of Exploration, Taldans have been sealing their tastiest treasures—and especially leftovers—inside pie shells to help preserve them, and that trend continues to this day. Sweet pies are the traditional breakfast, while farmers and laborers carry a savory hand pie or two with them for a midday snack. Taldans particularly love blending the sweet and the savory into pies, creating treats such as jubilee pie, a rich mix of currants, cherries, and fowl served at almost every major event.

2. Taldans Are Very Polite—Until They’re Not. Taldans live by their politics and succeed through cooperation. Sometimes that means smiling politely and shaking the hand of the man who tried to kill you last week. Rudeness isn’t just unseemly... It’s un-Taldan! They instead couch insults in careful language, usually as unhelpful critiques and backhanded compliments, most notably the cold Taldan “Well, aren’t you a treasure.” Once Taldans decide to stop being polite, they take their outrage and insults up to 11, insulting, scolding, threatening, and yelling in tirades that usually end in duels.

1. Taldans Never Quit. While most of Azlant sank, the ancestors of modern Taldor dragged themselves onto a foreign shore and pulled their lives back together. Orcs attacked and they rebuilt. Kellids plundered them and they rebuilt. They founded a kingdom and ran into one natural barrier after another—from rivers to forests to deserts to more orcs—and every time they pushed forward again. Taldor’s glories stem from bravery and skill, to be sure, but more than anything they come from the fact that Taldans never look at a challenge and say “maybe not this time.”