Also add afighterduct tape warrior
Fixed that for you. ;)
Here's a quick check-in for the evening. I'm really liking these entries so far!
@Crisischild - Aptly-named, indeed! It actually took me until I got to the background to realize that Forest Hunter was his name and not a placeholder or title. In any case, I like his backstory! It fits the setting very nicely. I also like that he has a twin. Good entry.
@Rennaivx/Calia - Nice work! I like the character. Bards are always nice to have around, too- I could see Calia being very useful when we get to Masks of the Living God.
Anybody interested in me putting together a list of the notable NPCs and Locations of Kassen? With a bit of tinkering, it would be easy to include some of these people and places in your backgrounds. If there's any interest, I can get that information up sometime in the next day or so.
Also, as a warning, I'm running a live game tomorrow evening and then DragonCon starts on Friday, and I'll be there pretty much all weekend, so I won't be able to respond as much until that's over.
Yes please I'm thinking my herbalist the apprentice of the town apothecary who's taken her training above and beyond.
Sounds good.
Hymenopteryx here, with Jenna Redthorne, a ranger (trapper) for your consideration. I've tried to make her as small-town average as possible, whilst not being too boring. I've not finalised her equipment yet, but can finalise her gear easily if selected.
As far as her background, I can easily expand it in order to include other PCs and NPCs once selections have been made...
Who am I? Why do you want to know? A glass of wine? No, I’d prefer an ale if its all the same to you? Well OK then, but there’s not really very much to tell you. I mean, after all, I’m no-one special. My family? Well, as far as I know they’ve lived here forever. My mum works up at the manor and dad, well he was a trapper, just like me. He taught me a bit before he died. What was that? Oh, no, don’t apologise. It was years and years ago – I was just a little girl back then, just six years old. It was during one of the orc raids that came through Lastwall. Mum says he saved some old woman’s life but I don’t know whether that’s just what she likes to tell me. Siblings? Well there are my brothers. Them? Well I don’t really know what I can tell you. They’re twins, and they’re bloody annoying, that’s all you really need to know, although I guess you can make allowances for toddlers. What’s that? Oh, no, heh, they’re my half-brothers. Mum married their dad almost four years ago. He’s a nice enough man I suppose. Treats her well, doesn’t stray, if you know what I mean. He’s not from here though. He came from somewhere over to the east, Razmiran I think it’s called? He doesn’t talk about it much. Travelled myself? Well I go hunting in the Fangwood of course. Have you ever been into the forest itself? No? You should. It’s just amazing being alone amongst the trees. Oh, yes, and I’ve been to Crossfen a couple of times. I even crossed the river into Lastwall once! So yeah, I’ve been much further than most. Further than that? Well I guess it’d be interesting. Never really thought of it before. No, I don’t have a beau. Is that what all this has been about? Well,… perhaps if you get me another ale you can tell me about yourself and we’ll see?
Jenna not beautiful, but certainly not ugly…. Most would describe her as pretty. A young woman at only seventeen years of age, she has long red hair green eyes, and freckled skin. Generally Jenna wears well used but well crafted leather armour over simple and practical woollen leggings and long leather boots. When hunting, or away from town she wears a simple undecorated shortsword a hunting dagger and a quiver at her waist, and carries her longbow. Jenna carries herself with a quiet confidence, especially once she enters the forest, where she feels most at home.
Yes, I'd love details to tie in with!
Must sub Tanglefoot bags with throwing duct-tape rolls
Anybody interested in me putting together a list of the notable NPCs and Locations of Kassen? With a bit of tinkering, it would be easy to include some of these people and places in your backgrounds. If there's any interest, I can get that information up sometime in the next day or so.
That'd be great... Janna's backstory needs something before I'll be happy with it. Any information about the area around town'd be helpful too if possible?
Introducing Antoine Ficino, a student of the occult arts relatively freshly arrived in Kassen after a particularly turbulent first year in University elsewhere. I haven’t developed his backstory or motivations yet as I would like to use some of the local information that is planned to be posted. As soon as that’s available, I’ll get my thinking cap on (a fez made from aluminium foil obviously!)
With regards to what Antoine brings to the party, the occultist is quite the generalist – he has some spells, he can call on a good selection of skills (which I have pushed towards knowledge areas), he gets some cool powers / buffs through his implements and, with a generous weapon / armour competency list, he isn’t too shabby in combat either.
Ok, I've got my crunch pretty much completed now, although I'm still figuring out traits - I sent you a message, Budd.
soon as that’s available, I’ll get my thinking cap on (a fez made from aluminium foil obviously!)
Wait...you imply there's any other kind of thinking cap. o.O
That'd be great... Janna's backstory needs something before I'll be happy with it. Any information about the area around town'd be helpful too if possible?
That's where I'm at too - Calia's backstory needs a little more something to finish it out. I think I've got some details from shopping that'll top it off, as well as any details about Kassen. (Basic story's staying the same - I'll just be making her more interesting. :D)
Love NPCs. He's a fairly friendly lug, so he'd have interactions with many. Especially those that harbor some pity for his tragedy.
For the stuff I wrote, feel free to leverage the NPCs I input in my back story:
- Portos Lihanuga, Artemis' father, local woodcarver and carpenter. Quiet and methodical, but affable.
- Emilia Lihanuga, Artemis' mother, helps maintain the wood shop and the books. Friendly but firm, has a particular fascination with Goodwife Crowley.
- Alonso Lihanuga, Artemis' grandfather, former soldier for Nirmathis (spear & shield). A gruff man but held in high esteem for his integrity. Devout of Erastil, a carpenter in his own right, set up the cabin and wood shop currently in use by the Portos & son. Had some dealings with Cygar.(Deceased)
- Mikhael, youngest son of a sundries shop in town, Artemis' best friend, killed by a goblin raiding party near the river. (Deceased) Perhaps a relative of another party member?
I also thru a mention of an Anelise, the smithy's wife. But I now notice that the smithy is an established character, not sure if he's married or not.
I'm glad to develop potential connections with other pcs. I can foresee his overprotective nature extending to Doreen or Calia. I'm definitely open to ideas.
I'm glad to tie myself in with any other PCs as well - Calia was basically class clown for a while, trying to ingratiate herself with the younger crowd (a group the PCs fall into), so I imagine many of them would be familiar with her, if only by reputation. Shoot, some of them may have even been warned away from her, back in her wilder days.
Man, I've been looking more closely at all the characters that have been put in so far, and I gotta say, Budd, I don't envy you your choice at all. It's gonna be a tough one, with so many excellent options. :)
My background only includes one NPC but I think she's an important one:
- Goodwife Crowley: a witch and fortune teller who lives in an old hut on the edge of town. Everyone pretends to think she's a crazy lunatic at best and evil at worse but everyone also secretly goes to her for advice and help.
Doreen has only been in town for a few years. Because of her great-aunt, Goodwife Crowley, she is generally shunned by the townspeople. She has changed a bit since arriving. She was fairly ordinary upon arriving but gradually went more "goth" as time went on, as her hair turned black and her skin bleached white.
I hunted around quite a bit to find specific information on Kassen to tie my character to. I was able to do so without encountering any spoilers.
The pathfinder wiki contains useful information.
Once the selection is made I would be very happy to work on my connection to other pc's but until then I wouldn't want to seem to be attempting to edge other submissions out.
Oh, yeah, it's a struggle, lemme tell you. I actually felt physical pain in my last recruitment from trying to pick the right characters. I still weep for leaving out Greven Morius and Silas Caine. ;_; No matter who ends up making it in, you should all know that I've had a great time reading about all your characters anyway. I'm kind of considering them all as canon members of the Kassen community at this point, meaning that the final selection for the game is also the final selection for the Quest for the Everflame. Would there be any interest in allowing those who don't make it in to be "on call" in the event that somebody drops out (or their character dies)?
Anyhoo, NPCs and Locations are below! But fist, a couple'a notes:
@PirateDevon - Just realized we're both in the Ren'Shan campaign! Aloha!
@Jenna RedThorne - Welcome to the running!
@Antoine Ficino - Welcome to the running as well!
- - - -
And now, what you've all been waiting for... The Kassen Gazzeteer, Part One!
Cygar Anravis - A mysterious, heavily scarred outsider who came to Kassen four months ago. He mostly keeps holed up in his rented room at the Seven Silvers Inn, but has been spotted wandering the town and observing certain individuals from time to time. There are many rumors following Cygar, including that he might be a member of the infamous Pathfinder Society.
Mayor Jonark Uptal - Kassen's long-serving mayor, he is a fair but cautious man. Most of the people of Kassen have great love and respect for Mayor Uptal, stemming from his days repelling goblin tribes from the south. He is the one who normally performs the Quest for the Everflame most years, along with a few of his trusted friends.
Sir Dramott - A paladin from Lastwall, he is stationed in Kassen in order to keep watch for orcish invaders from Belkzen. He is honorable, but a bit of a stiff, and the local authorities are often irritated when he steps on their toes, as he has no real jurisdiction in Kassen. He is a potential mentor for paladins, warpriests, or other holy warriors.
Jocyn Elmaran - A local entertainer, he settled in Kassen four years ago after a nasty run-in with an orc scouting party left him battered and wounded, both physically and mentally. He lives in one of the rooms at the Seven Silvers, and is a genial, carefree, and good-humored man despite the trauma in his past. He is a potential mentor for bards and a beloved figure in town.
Grimscar - Half-orcs have a nasty reputation as it is, and Grimscar isn't helping matters any. A local troublemaker, he works for the Woodcutter's Guild. Nobody likes being on his bad side. Abused and ridiculed for most of his life, he has learned to take out his frustrations on others. There is always a collective sigh of relief in Kassen when he is out of town for a few weeks on lumber shipments. And yes, he has a scar, and it is quite grim-looking.
Holgast - A very eccentric wizard who lives in a cruddy, leaning tower on the east side of town. Holgast is quite the character, and has taken many apprentices over the years, though he runs most of them off following one of his typical mood swings or through his abuse of constant, back-breaking chores in place of proper lessons. Forgetful, somewhat irresponsible, and prone to bouts of heavy herb usage and long naps, he is hardly a role model, but from time to time his counsel proves valuable. He is a potential mentor for wizards, alchemists, and arcanists.
Jimes "Short Change" Iggins - A halfling waiter at the Seven Silvers, he is a sly, sneaky sort who has earned his nickname well. If he wasn't so darned likable and friendly, someone would have called him out on this and gotten him fired long ago. To Short Change, a bit of thievery all in good fun is fair game, and he is happy to serve as an undercover mentor for any wannabe rogues.
Braggar Ironhame - A foul-tempered dwarf who serves as one of the most respected blacksmiths in Kassen. His wares are expensive, but top quality. He is also prone to bouts of violent rage, but has spent years attempting to master this temper, meaning he can also act as a mentor for barbarians.
Guardsman Golfond Kir - A likable and reliable member of the town guard, Golfond suffered head trauma as a youth that left him a bit on the simple side, but his kindness has allowed him to continue to live a life close to normalcy. Sometimes, however, he falls victim to pranks and cruel jabs from Kassen's less decent citizens, and he tries to shake these off with a smile and a laugh. However, he refuses to partake in any such pranks himself, including those directed against Guard Captain Wisslo, who is otherwise Kassen's favorite punching bag.
Arnama Lastrid - An orphan of the war with the Molthuni forces, Arnama has become Kassen's most reliable outrider and scout since moving there some years ago. A highly skilled ranger, she has taken a number of younger rangers-to-be along on her scouting missions, for better or worse; many of her protegees are more interested in pursuing romance with her than following her grueling, undisciplined, lead-by-example style of teaching. She is a possible mentor for rangers, hunters, and other woodsy folk.
Ilimara Oniri - A mysterious and beautiful woman from Qadira who lives on the outskirts of Kassen. She can be seen practicing a style of exotic martial arts that resemble a dance every morning. A worshiper of Irori, she is willing to share her curious and powerful fighting secrets with those interested, but there's something off-putting and slightly eerie about her. She is a potential mentor for monks, brawlers, and other martial arts practitioners.
Father Rantal Prasst - The handsome young priest who leads Kassen's Temple of Erastil, he is open-minded enough to allow the worship of many gods at his house of prayer. His youth and hard-headedness mean that many in town do not take him as seriously as his forebearers, but he has many young female admirers. He does not like to talk about it, but he served as a soldier in Tamran, the capital of Nirmathas, when it was last sacked by the Molthuni forces and saw some horrible things, leading him to quit the army and take up the cloth. He is a possible mentor for clerics or other divine spellcasters.
Asina Silvers - A cute and sweet-hearted 13-year-old girl who works for her father at the Seven Silvers Inn. She greatly resembles her late mother, and is quite the town gossip. She is torn between wanting to prove herself to her father by taking over the Seven Silvers eventually and her true dream of moving to the "big city" of Tamran.
Trelvar Silver - The owner and manager of the Seven Silvers Inn, Kassen's most thriving establishment. Despite the success of his business, he has suffered a number of tragedies in recent years with the passing of his wife and infant son, and relies heavily on his daughter Asina for support. It seems he thinks little of Asina's desire to take over the Inn, and perks up at any notion of wealthy visitors to town, hoping to marry her off properly. A lot of his longtime friends worry that his depression is changing him into a shadow of his former self.
Olmira Treesong - The town's local druid. Nearly a match for Holgast in terms of eccentricity, the middle-aged Olmira only wears clothing made from natural materials like leaves and bark, is accompanied by hordes of woodland creatures, and talks to herself and her animal cohorts constantly. Those wishing to learn the druidic arts from Olmira find themselves forced to undertake some truly bizarre training rituals. She is a potential mentor for druids or other nature-based divine spellcasters.
Moltus Vargidan - Patriarch of the wealthy and reclusive Vargidan family, Moltus was the most popular subject of sinister rumors in Kassen before Cygar's arrival. He has a dozen children from different mothers, a pair of lifelong servants, and a callous attitude. It is said that his family possesses strange innate powers, but good luck gleaning any further information from them in person; the Vargidans, Moltus in particular, are notoriously secretive. Despite this, Moltus is a possible "mentor" for sorcerers or bloodragers, though he is no kindly teacher.
Colbin Vetnar - Guildmaster of the local Woodcutter's Guild, Colbin Vetnar is one of the most powerful men in Kassen. He is the opposite number to Mayor Uptal, ruthless and self-serving. He has a tendency to "creatively interpret" local laws into favoring himself and his guild. Unpopular as he is, he brings in a lot of money to the town, so he is seen as something of a necessary evil. He is also Grimscar's boss, so that's not winning him any friends...
Guard Captain Gregor Wisslo - Disciplined to a fault, obsessed with order and schedules, and generally seen as a pain in the rear, Captain Wisslo is seen as just as big of a "necessary evil" as Colbin Vetnar; the difference being that Wisslo is undoubtedly a good man, if overly stern. His methods clash with the spirit of individualism and independence that Nirmathas is all about, so perhaps he was destined to be disliked by those he is sworn to protect. His own troops tease him ("Captain Is-Slow" is a favorite taunt) and pull pranks on him. He is a potential mentor for fighters and other purely martial types.
Roldare - Kassen's favorite cobbler. Look down- you see those shoes you're wearing? Odds are good that Roldare made those. A bit of an odd duck, Roldare keeps to himself, but seems friendly enough.
Dimira - Roldare's younger sister, she is a cleric-in-training under the watchful eye of Father Prasst. She has had her work cut out for her lately in quelling rumors that she and the dashing priest are involved romantically.
That took FOREVER, but I hope it's useful to you! I'll put up a map of Kassen, along with a list of notable locations around the town, in the next couple of days. DragonCon will be eating up a good bit of time this weekend, I'm afraid.
Sounds good to me.
I'd be glad to stay on-call if I'm not picked - I'm generally always up for more PbP. And I think it'd be fun to stay as a canon NPC even if I don't get to play. :)
Thank you so much for your work on the Gazetteer! I'm glad to have it to help round out Calia's story.
Also happy to be on-call. Looking at some changes to Jenna (mostly about personality) and am happy to link up backgrounds with anyone who's willing....?
It's very cool of you to provide that gazetteer, I'm sure it will be very helpful. I'm certainly available as an alternate if not selected. I recognize my own character concept is a little out of the normal bounds for a campaign meant to have a sort of prosaic beginning and sense of place. A half-orc raised kitsune, or possibly any kitsune, risks being a little overly precious but you have to go with the spirit that moves you!
I'd also be happy to hang around as an alternate, though happier to be selected as part of the team.
But of course. ;)
And now, part two of the Kassen Gazetteer...
Map of Kassen
1. Seven Silvers Inn - Run by Trelvar Silvers, this comfy, two-story inn also happens to be host to Kassen's most popular taproom. Things don't usually get too out of hand here.
2. Greathall - This large, three-story wooden structure is used for weddings, celebrations, town meetings, and other large social gatherings. This is where the celebration for the heroes returning from the Quest for the Everflame will be held.
3. Woodcutter's Guildhall - The Woodcutter's Guild is very powerful in Kassen, and every piece of lumber leaving down the Tourondel to Tamran bears their stamp (a nice piece of legal shenanigans pulled off by Colbin Vetnar).
4. Temple of Erastil - Father Prasst presides over this humble place of worship, which also boasts shrines to many of Golarion's other deities.
5.Town Watch Headquarters - Guard Captain Wisslo can usually be found here if he isn't out patrolling. This is also where local troublemakers might find themselves imprisoned if they aren't careful.
6. Renet's Steel - One of the other most successful blacksmith shops in Kassen, prices here are cheap but there are no masterwork items to be found.
7. Arnama's Home - The home of the ranger Arnama Lastrid. Those who have spent time training with her will find that it is far from spotless, yet she imposes surprisingly harsh rules of conduct on visitors.
8. Sir Dramott's Home - The visiting paladin from Lastwall can be found here.
9. Braggar Ironhame's Shop (Ironhame Metalworks) - Looking for masterwork weapons or armor (or a long, curse-laden rant)? This is the place to go, but don't expect quick work or friendly company.
10. The Vargidan Estate - The reclusive and mysterious Vargidan family lives here, complete with its two full-time staffers. It is something of the local spook house, and most sensible folk avoid it.
11. Holgast's Tower - The dilapidated, slightly-crooked tower workshop of local arcanist Holgast is here. In addition to seeking out the wizard for training, one might also travel here in order to purchase magic items, of which Holgast has a small selection for sale.
12. Mayor Uptal's House - This modest waterside home is where the good Mayor Uptal hangs his hat (or headband, as the case may be). He has his own little fishing boat that he likes to go out on to relax after a tough day of work.
13. Ilimara's Home - The residence of the mysterious Qadiran, Ilimara Oniri. One hoping to observe her unusual martial arts practices can find her outside on the lawn every morning at dawn, training.
Not listed: the residences of your own player characters! Also note that quite a few residences are outside the walls, and are not necessarily depicted on this map. That is the Tourondel River you see running alongside the north side of the town, and while technically the residences on the north side of the bridge could be considered to be in Lastwall, everyone still considers it a part of Nirmathas. The woods to the South are indeed a part of the formidable Fangwood.
Does anyone have any questions regarding the town, its customs, or anything else to include in the next (and final) part of the Gazetteer?
@Crisischild - Inside the demon's mouth. All you have to do is reach in and take it!
Also: @PirateDevon - Of course it's a positive association. We've braved an awkward conversation with a snooty local lord together! We've been (repeatedly) pounded into the dirt by Lord Migari together! We're practically bros!
EDIT: More thoughts, as I've had a little more time to look over our more recent entries in more detail.
@Jenna Redthorne - There is one particular bit in your character's backstory that has a LOT of potential for great drama in this particular storyline, especially once Crypt of the Everflame ends. I think you know the one. ;)
Great setup here. I'm more than happy to be an alternate or even help with npc management if there's a job opening. But to be honest, there's so much talent here I'll be reading this story just for the sheer entertainment factor!
A few changes to Jenna's background but will make some more to link more closely to other PCs if selected,... :)
Who am I? Well I'm no one really, I mean, why would you want to know? A glass of wine? No thank you. Maybe a small ale? Well OK then, but there’s not really very much to tell. I mean, after all, like I said, I’m no-one special. My family? Well, as far as I know they’ve lived here forever. My mum works up at the Vargidan Estate and my father, well he was a trapper, just like me. What was that? Oh, no, don’t apologise. It was years and years ago – I was just a little girl when it happened, just six years old. It was during one of the orc raids that came from Belzken. I don't really know what happened. It was something to do with Arnama, but she wont tell me what. Anyway, a few years later, when I was twelve, she offered to teach me how to hunt and trap. I've even helped her scout for the guard when that idiot Wisslo can convince her to take someone else along. I'm pretty good with a bow now too. Mum says I'm even better than my father was. Siblings? Well there are my brothers. Them? Well I don’t really know what I can tell you. They’re twins, and they’re really annoying, that’s all you really need to know, although, I guess you can make allowances for toddlers. What’s that? Oh, no. Heh, they’re my half-brothers. Mum married their dad almost four years ago. He’s a nice enough man I suppose. Treats her well, doesn’t stray, if you know what I mean. He’s not from here though. He came from somewhere over to the east, Razmiran I think it’s called? He doesn’t talk about it much. Travelled myself? Well I go hunting in the Fangwood of course. Have you ever been into the forest itself? No? You should. It’s just amazing being alone amongst the trees, much nicer than town. Oh, yes, and I’ve been to Crossfen a couple of times. I even crossed the river into Lastwall once! So yeah, I’ve been much further than most. Further than that? Well I guess it’d be interesting. Never really thought of it before.
Jenna's not beautiful, but certainly not ugly…. Most would describe her as pretty. A young woman at only seventeen years of age, she has long red hair green eyes, and freckled skin. Generally Jenna wears well crafted but worn leather armour over simple and practical woollen leggings and long leather boots. When hunting, or away from town she wears a simple undecorated shortsword a hunting dagger and a quiver at her waist, and carries her longbow. Jenna is uncomfortable and shy in crowds, especially in towns. In the forest, however, her demenor changes to one of professional competance.
@Jenna Redthorne - There is one particular bit in your character's backstory that has a LOT of potential for great drama in this particular storyline, especially once Crypt of the Everflame ends. I think you know the one. ;)
Thought the title of part 2 might indicate ... something. Always like to lay some potential links for GMs when possible. VERY happy to act as a plot device.... :)
Also want to reiterate that Jenna's background is malleable enough to link in closely with any other PCs (if she's chosen) - whether siblings, love interest or competitor - all are great RP angles!
Still working on it. Crunch is done. Working on the fluff now.
Dreaming Warforged here with an unchained rogue. Let me know if you have questions or comments.
@Tania Teg - Well done. Nice incorporation of the local characters into the backstory, and what a twist with Grimscar being kind of a cool guy in there (certainly runs counterpoint to his reputation). I can dig it!
My time at DragonCon is over for this year, so I'll be able to get back to a steadier rate of checking in on things. Considering the turnout and how many characters I've already got to choose from, I'll probably end recruitment early; I originally planned to keep it open until the 14th, but I see no reason to keep it going that long now. As it stands, I'll leave a few more days for anyone interested to propose characters, and the rest of you can continue to develop your concepts or come up with connections between you all if you'd like.
I'll be doing some final revisions, probably tomorrow morning - I realized I hadn't gotten a chance to work in my NPC connection ideas. Expect those a bit later.
Glad DragonCon was fabulous!
Lots of diversity and detail in these backgrounds. Folks have really taken the notion of tying their pc's into the community to heart. It's pretty great really.
All right, I think I've got my story finished up and my stat block in place now. If anyone wants to tie together, feel free. Since we all get to be NPCs, we can do some connecting-up now and not worry about losing it when the group's chosen. :)
@Artemis Lihanuga - Totally missed your question for me earlier. I'm assuming you're referring to Artemis seeking out the local barbarian mentor Braggar Ironhame in hopes of bringing that anger under control? If so, yeah, that'd be perfect.
@Calia Pevanazee - DragonCon was decent. I always imagine myself having more fun than I actually do. Still, I'll be there again next year, sure as the sun rises... In other news, I'm loving the revisions to your backstory, and I'm really feeling Calia as a character. She's one of the strongest candidates for sure.
@Cajiro - It really is, isn't it? Narrowing it down to a final group is gonna be tough.
I'm thinking the initial party size is going to end up being six people- larger than the module initially plans for, but not enough to break the game (especially since I'm modifying it a bit). Besides, I've run a group that size in Feast of Ravenmoor, and that went great.
The muse not having sunk it's teeth into my brain, I shall have to unfortunately withdraw my potential submission.
Good luck and god speed to all those remaining.
I have pulled together a backstory for Antoine – he has been away studying in Ustalav and things have gone… badly!!!
He is now back in Kassen – I have left it relatively ambiguous as to just how local he is to the area – and is struggling to move on…
I am happy to link in with other potential players as suits (noting that Antoine has been away from Kassen for a couple of years) – also, I’ve left a little hook for the GM if he wants Antoine’s past to catch up with him!!!
I'm eagerly stockpiling ideas in case I get selected, though given the quality of some of the other support characters I'll not be miffed if I don't. Jenna's alternate take on Grimscar is kind of inspiring given that Cajiro's father is a half orc who is not likely to be friendly with him.
He went to live with his uncle Braggar Ironhame in Kassen. He has lived there for 10 years and he has made a large amount of headway controlling his curse. However, he is coming into adulthood and is expected to go through the local ritual, despite how little the locals care for him.
Let me know what you think. If you like him I can finish the crunch tonight.
@Antoine - Cool, I was hoping to get a good backstory out of you, and it did not disappoint. Geez... another strong contender.
@PirateDevon - No worries, you've still got a few days left. I really like Laird so far, so I can't wait to see what you put together for him.
@Cajiro - I guess Grimscar's not a horrible, violent misanthope all the time. He has a soft spot somewhere in there. (At least, now he does!)
@Kragmar - Welcome to the party, pal! /johnmcclane Nice backstory, and I like that he's Ironhame's nephew. Family dinner nights must be hell in that household. Interestingly, there's another Sky Citadel in Nirmathas that might end up being visited later in the campaign! Feel free to go ahead and crunch Kragmar up. I'd like to see what he looks like all shiny and chrome.
I might try to put up the final part of the Gazetteer tomorrow after work. Local legends and customs and the like.
dot, dot, dot,
Hey Budd, I’ve been reading along with your "’The Price of Immortality’ Trilogy Recruitment” since you posted it. I began playing in another game as “the GodsMouth Heresy” was ended and I felt like retiring Tachio until I could come up with another edition of him. I did not want to start another game until I could see how the new game was moving. Unfortunately it is moving glacially, the other new game I started playing in is moving slower than I expected and several of the games I am in have slowed down. To make matters worse, I have a hankering to play a sword and board paladin. Seeing that most of the characters I create have a bit of the “young hero” vibe, I thought I may throw my hat into the ring. Sorry it took so long to decide, I just wanted to make sure I had plenty of time for a “daily post (or more) game” So let me introduce Sariel Patrick Cornelius.
The Character
Sariel is a fifteen year old (he’s big for his size) who has trained to be a warrior like his mother and father, unbeknownst to him he is a "Chosen One” of Erastil (Paladin archetype, as well as a warrior of holy light archetype.) He and his pet pig (emissary familiar) Proudsnout, will participate in undertaking the Quest for the Everflame.
Brief History
Sariel began life as an orphan. His Mother, Patrice an attractive woman and a proud warrior in her own right, left Kassen seven years before she returned heavy with child. She had gone to the south to fight in the war with Molthune. She earned a reputation as a competent and resourceful warrior, she also fell in love and married her commander Captain Cornelius, a tall charismatic leader of soldiers. He was also well thought of and respected by his commanders and subordinates alike. In a tough fought battle Cornelius lead a flanking attack that turned the tide and brought a Nirmathas victory. Cornelius died of his injuries. He laid abed several days, it was during that time Patrice learned she was pregnant and she promised Cornelius she would name their son after him, after the funeral Patrice began the journey back home to Kassen.
Patrice moved in with her brother the blacksmith, Renet. When it was time for the baby to be birthed she was assisted by Renet’s wife Anelise. As the birthing process seemed to be going wrong they sent for Goodwife Crowley. After more than a day and a night Sariel was born, but the Goodwife was not able to save Patrice. Renet and his wife had no children so, having always wanted kids, they raised the baby as their own. They named him Cornelius after Patrice’s wishes, also naming him Patrick to honor her and finally giving him another name, Sariel, after Renet and Patrice’s father. Something Renet had promised himself he would do if he had a son.
After Sariel was weaned and able to help around the community, he showed an affinity for animals so the pig herder hired him to assist with the pigs. Sariel, adopted one sickly little piglet, naming it Proudsnout after one of Erastil servants. As he got a little older he assisted Renet in the shop, becoming a competent metal worker but still better with animals. It wasn’t long before Sariel was a successful furrier and took care of shoeing horses, so his uncle could focus with metal crafting.
About this same time their neighbor, Sir Dramott, noticed Sariel’s size and strength and asked if he could spar with the knights page (and eventual squire) Mortimer. While Sariel and Mortimer never were friends they both became competent warriors, and Sariel developed a deep respect and admiration for Sir Dramott, who true to his word not only paid Sariel for his time but taught him to fight. When Sariel was not working or training he would spend his time at the temple and with the young Father Prasst.
Sariel took an immediate liking to their new neighbor, the young priest. He loved the parables of Erastil, asking Anelise to read them over and over to him, and reading them himself after Anelise taught him how. He enjoyed being in the temple, the peace there seemed to call to him. He even volunteered to clean the temple, he and Proudsnout would always keep quite as Father Prasst would speak to parishioners or as people of other faiths would come to pray there. Sariel was very happy with his life and home in Kassen.
He wants to repay Kassen and its fine people by serving somehow. Not happy with being just a Furrier he realized he wants to be in the guard. Renet had told him that when he was big enough to participate in “The Quest” that afterwards he could apply to the guard, as long as he still worked in the shop when he could. So Sariel, with his mother’s shield and sword in hand and wearing the scale armor, that Renet made for him that winter, was prepared to ask the village elders if he could participate in “The Quest”
The plot point
As a “chose one” he doesn’t realize his true calling is as a Paladin. He believes his: training and association with another Paladin, his love for the ‘parables’ and the temple of Erastil, his kindred spirit with Father Prasst and his pet pig named “Proudsnout”( who he imagines speaks to him) are all just part of his life) are coincidences. So the revelation of things like divine grace and smite evil take him totally by surprise as do the gifts of the “Warrior of light.”
Another plot point, if you like it.
If Sariel is human he will take “duel Talent” giving him above average strength and charisma, but not the feat and skill. The second plot point, if you like it, is that he will be Aasimar, angel kin, which also adds str. and cha. The second plot point includes that his father was an Aasimar a scion of humanity, but watched over by Erastil, thus the familiar is the actual “Proudsnout” Mechanically he would have the racial traits: Scion of Humanity, Halo, Incorruptible and Celestial Crusader. In game he would age like a human until around puberty. He would not realize he is Aasimar until he actually faces evil. I’m thinking the first time he uses the “smite evil” spell like ability that Paladins have, so at the earliest 2nd level. The first time he faces evil his Halo will ignite after that he will be able to do it at will. I intentionally picked Incorruptible and Celestial Crusaders so he would not experience them until he was in combat fighting evil. So the revelations of the two plot points mix and mingle, he will be unsure what parts are paladin and what parts are aasimar. he may actually doubt that one or both are even true. fortunately he will have Proudsnout along to help ease the transition.
If you like this second plot point I will add the race traits and possibly change feats and traits. If not we will leave him human. Just let me know what you think, I’m good either way just looking to add ideas. Thanks for your consideration, I will be posting Sariel with a vignette or two soon. RH
Here's Kragmar's Character sheet
@RobertHenry - It's you! You're the man who ruined Darkmantles for me forever! Now every time one pops up in any campaign I run, I have to declare that IT HAS ATTACKED US UNWARRANTED! Yes, I still chuckle about that. Sorry. Anyway, it's good to see you here! It seems you've put a lot of thought into Sariel's backstory. I like it. I can tell you really did your research into the information I provided, even incorporating the NPCs other players have created. Nice. He also reminds me of the main character from the manga "Seven Deadly Sins," who also has a pet piggy! I happen to love pigs, so that's a win in my book! I'm okay with you building him as an Aasimar. Let's see what the crunch ends up looking like.
@Kragmar - Cool. Never seen a Kineticist in action before, so the lack of funds took me by surprise until I re-read the class overview. He seems pretty powerful! I want to play a Kineticist now...
And here's the final piece of the Kassen Gazetteer:
Local Color: The Legend of Kassen, and the Quest for the Everflame!
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The Legend of Kassen:
Nearly 200 years ago, when the land that was to become Nirmathas was still a vassal to the Empire of Cheliax, the northern reaches of the Fangwood were a wild and untamed place. The crusades that laid low the Whispering Tyrant to the north were a distant memory, and those who remained were intent upon keeping the orcs of Belkzen and the remaining undead from Ustalav in check. As a result, the great forest was full of danger, from marauding orcs to deadly predators, making it unsafe for merchants hoping to trade with the growing community of Skelt in the foothills of the Mindspin Mountains to the west.
Ekat Kassen was once a crusader from Lastwall. He fought with bravery and distinction, earning many accolades during his service. Soon, however, he realized that he desired more from life, and he left Lastwall's military alongside his longtime friend and comrade, Asar Vergas, in order to take up the life of an adventurer. Soon, they met an elven magus named Iramine, whose beauty and strength captured the hearts of both Kassen and Asar. Their travels took them all over the lands surrounding Lake Encarthan, and during these travels they met a beautiful elven magus named Iramine, whose beauty and strength captured both of their hearts.
These three heroes would have many adventures, striking down evil in many forms and amassing great wealth along the way. Kassen was a mighty defender who protected his allies faithfully; Asar's strength and skill with the blade sent foes fleeing in terror; and Iramine's powerful spells crushed those fool enough to remain.
But a life of never-ending adventure is destined to be a short one, even for the greatest heroes. Ekat Kassen felt middle age encroaching upon him, and found that the wealth he had attained was more than he would ever be able to spend. After one final, glorious mission with his longtime friends, he, Asar, and Iramine went their separate ways.
The wilds of the northern Fangwood called to the freshly-retired Kassen, and he ventured to the banks of the Tourondel River and set about taming the land. This land, if settled, would be a natural stopover for those traveling to Skelt; and so Kassen went to work. Ten years later, Kassen's Hold, as it was then known, stood proud and prospering upon those banks, a rough-and-tumble tribute to Kassen's own indomitable spirit.
But the history of Kassen's Hold would not be a peaceful one. As Ekat Kassen grew old and resigned himself to the relatively cozy job of Lord Mayor, envious eyes glowered in the north. A reunion between old friends was due, and it was not to be a happy occasion. Asar Vergas had long obsessed over Kassen's fortune, feeling cheated after their final adventure together left him with what he felt was an unfair share of the treasure. The years had dulled Ekat Kassen's edge, perhaps, but they had only fanned the fires of Asar's jealousy. Asar marched on Kassen with a small army of mercenaries at his heels. For two months, Asar's hired swords raided and laid seige to the town, holing themselves up in an ancient crypt located in the nearby Fangwood. His hand forced, Kassen took up his old sword and shield and set out toward the old crypt to confront his old friend.
The battle was brutal and bloody. At the end of it, Asar was dead and Kassen himself mortally wounded. Two days later, on the 11th of Neth, 4535, Ekat Kassen died from his wounds. Those slain in the battle were buried within the crypt Asar's forces had occupied during the siege. In honor of his great sacrifice, Kassen himself was interred in a place of honor above Asar's own tomb, symbolizing his victory over the traitor. A magical, ever-burning flame was created by the town's greatest surviving spellcasters and placed above Kassen's sarcophagus, with a clear message inspired by Kassen's legacy: may all those who visit this place find warmth in the wilderness.
The Quest for the Everflame:
Since then, Kassen's tomb- also known as the Crypt of the Everflame- has become a significant part of the town's history. The village, now known simply as Kassen (only the old folks still call it Kassen's Hold), holds a special ritual every autumn in which representatives travel through the Fangwood to the Crypt in order to light a lantern using the Everflame that still waits above Ekat Kassen's final resting place. When they return to the village, this flame is used to light the hearth, where it is preserved for the entire winter as a symbol of the town's resilience. Most years, it falls to the town's leaders, typically the mayor and a few dignitaries, to perform the task. Every few years, however, the best and brightest of the town's youth- or, alternatively, those most in need of a reminder of how much was sacrificed in order to protect their homestead- are elected to step forth, take the lantern, and make the difficult journey to the Crypt and back. The Quest for the Everflame begins with a solemn ceremony in the center of town, in part a sort of recreation of Ekat Kassen's final departure from the town. Upon the successful return of those undertaking the quest, a grand feast is held, typically within the Greathall, celebrating both the retrieval of the Everflame as well as the continued resilience of the community. This celebration is, in itself, sufficient motivation for some citizens of Kassen to undertake the Quest, as rewards come many (and varied) upon the return to Kassen.
The Quest for the Everflame has changed over the generations, as has the Crypt itself. Kassen's best artisans have turned the dank, long-abandoned tomb into a sort of museum dedicated to the town's founder and history, and it is assumed that eventually someone will get around to investigating what the tomb was doing there when Asar and his men found it in the first place. The most exciting change to the Quest for the Everflame comes in the form of traps and challenges installed into the Crypt on years where the town's youth are given the task. These challenges, ranging from puzzles to simulated combat, are set up ahead of time by a group of villagers who typically travel to the Crypt a few days ahead of time. Clues, gifts and quality gear hand-picked for the adventurers are often placed within as well, partly as confidence-boosters and partly as a reward for being brave enough to take on the job. While many of these challenges are designed to be difficult to overcome and can be dangerous, injuries are fairly rare and no one has ever died undertaking the Quest.
All right, so, there was that one time a guy broke both of his legs- but that was because he tried to walk down a slippery slope without securing a rope first. The lesson is: even knowing that most of the challenges within the Crypt are set up as a sort of joke, and designed to be fairly safe, the best advice any adventurer can heed is to treat them as if they were real.
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Thanks for the gazetteer Budd. It's awesome. I haven't had a lot of time to work on it but I worked a couple NPC's into Forest's story. No major changes.
Forest never was able to sit still. Schooling and working around the house bored him, so from a young age he insisted on joining his father and the Irregulars as they patrolled and explored the Fangwood. With them he learned to use a bow and survive in the wild.
When Forest was twelve and out on a patrol with the Irregulars, one of the reclusive druids of the forest approached them. There was a giant metal monster stomping around the northwestern Fangwood, or so the druid had told the rangers. You would think someone that could turn into a sparrow would be able to gather better intel, or someone that could turn into a mammoth could deal with the problem themselves, but druids were infuriatingly passive unless someone was sowing lye into the earth. The rangers turned up no evidence of a metal man after a few hours of searching and decided to spend the night on a cliff overlooking the Tourondel before continuing on their routine patrol of the river. At sunset the metal man found them.
There must have been some foul sorcery involved to allow the heavily armed and armored orc to approach the group of veterans unseen. The raging orc charged out of the shrubbery through Forest and his father, knocking them both to the ground and began taking wild swings at the others. The Irregulars were hardly equipped to fight fully armored opponents on open ground, let alone an orc berserker. They were lightly armored and most didn’t wield respectable melee weapons. Arrow after arrow plinked harmlessly off the orcs armor as they scrambled to avoid its raging blows. Alden dropped his bow and drew his longsword while urging Forest to stay out of sight, then charged the orc.
Forest felt something break underneath him as his father pushed him down. His bow was shattered. He struggled to his feet, fighting to catch his breath. He watched through blurry eyes as his father fought the orc, barely able to deflect the monsters blows and dancing towards the cliff. Forest looked around for something to help with. His father’s bow rested in the grass at his feet. He picked up the bow and knocked an arrow. Somewhere in the melee part of the orcs armor had been cut or broken loose. Forest took aim at the exposed weakness. But the draw weight of his father’s bow was too high. He wasn’t strong enough. He couldn’t hold the bow steady. He watched helplessly as the arrow sailed uselessly into the distance. He watched helplessly as his father, knowing he couldn’t defeat the armored creature, threw down his sword and tackled the orc. The two combatants tumbled over the edge and into the river below. They never were able to recover Alden’s body.
After his father’s death Forest stopped being a regular member of the Irregulars. It didn’t feel right to be led by someone else He still occasionally joins them when a larger group of goblins or wolves strays too close to town. Arnama Lastrid recognized his potential and tried to further his training but couldn’t defeat the boys’ stubborn belief that his father had taught him everything he needed to know and he merely needed to master the skills he already had developed. They had something of a falling out after an incident that involved both of them ending up in a freezing pond.
Olmira Treesong also reached out to Forest after his father’s death. The odd woman insisted he could manipulate the same druidic magic she could. While he enjoyed their long walks deep into the forest, he never felt the tiniest bit of magic within himself and no one in his family –as far as he knew- had magic in their blood and he had no interest in trying to learn anything about magic. But perhaps the druid knows more about Forest than he knows about himself.
Forest isn’t the most socially adept person having been raised by soldiers, but he is well liked in Kassen. He often helps the loggers deal with dangerous flora and fauna while they work, not that they ever needed that much protection. That is, if you can actually find him to ask for his help. He spends weeks at a time delving deep into the forest.
Being in dangerous situations since he was young, Forest is calm and patient in stark contrast to his fiery mother and sister but equally stubborn. Like most Nirmathi militia he has trouble following orders he didn’t issue. His main drive is to keep Kassen safe. He used to think the main threat was from orcs and humans but as he spends more and more time in the forest an unshakable fear has been growing in the back of his mind. Something is wrong with Fangwood. The appearance of a supposed Pathfinder only increases his worry. What do they want here? Forest remains weary of the man, waiting to see what his motives are.
Physical Description
Age: 16
Heigth: 5'11"
Weight: 185 lbs
Eyes: Brown
Hair: Brown
Forest looks unremarkable, but is handsome enough when he’s not covered in dirt or blood. He’s of average height with a slim athletic build. He rarely bothers with his brown hair, which usually hangs unkempt around shoulder length. He usually wears comfortable, rugged leather clothing, dyed different colors depending on the season to provide camouflage in the forest. As winter approaches his outfit is shifting from mostly greens to browns and reds. His most striking feature are his piercing brown eyes that seem to look right through you, always moving, never missing a detail. He never makes any noise unless he intends to, so some find him a bit creepy. He usually forgoes his bow and chain armor in town, but his father’s longsword almost always hangs at his side. He otherwise isn’t very heavily burdened by gear, usually able to find everything he needs to survive in the wild. If he has to fight Forest would rather stalk his opponent till they’ve exhausted themselves moving through the thick underbrush and ambushing them from a distance when they’re weak.
Forest also has many relevant skills for wilderness survival and is well versed in the lore and geography of Fangwood and its not-so-human residents.