Gob Smash One

Game Master Tacticslion

It's equipment, including sized-for-small weapons (Is... is that a masterwork dogslicer and horsechopper?! Layla wouldn't ever believe it, if she didn't see it herself! There's also a mundane crossbow though no remaining bolts, and nothing under the very nice awful armor that seems like it was once a masterwork piece).

I wish to say: I got this item list slightly wrong. There are a few more items (including a box and a tonfa). Also, the item stats are tweaked slightly. I will post the mundane stats of the items later, as I currently just left access to those. :)

Is there still need for me to identify stuff?

I think there was more magic items Lulu can tray if you don't make it.

Given that Lulu would try those too (I'm presuming based on your above post - you'd initially only indicated the ring, Lulu, which was why I didn't clarify the others) I'll go ahead and post those stats, too. :)

well the ring is pretty and awesome, and shiny, and ...what were we talking about again?

At work

Interesting stuff. While it's not sized for her. Sunny is actually quite interested in the 'Dog-slicer'.... (>_>)

Yay! More caltrops for Ceru(?) (^_^)

Shaedo was the one who was using caltrops before, although Ceru could certainly make use of them, but they are more the kitsune's schtick.

Is there a spellcaster who can trigger the spells in the staff? If not Ceru would volunteer to "talk it" into doing things (with Use Magic Device).

Randomly triggering spells is a bad idea. Ideally the identify spell would be cast. The best I can do is detect and spellcraft.

I think in Pathfinder you can identify items using Spellcraft, and the identify spell just gives you a big bonus to doing so. I think the GM considered Lulu's Spellcraft check of 26 or so as high enough to identify the items, especially with Dijiron's aid, so I think that's why he gave us all the info, and we can consider them identified.
(Correct me if I'm wrong, GM,)

You are correct, Layla. Seriously, though, it's almost eerie how often I say that.
Oh, and in other innocent and entirely unsuspicious news...

Randomly triggering spells is a bad idea. Ideally the identify spell would be cast. The best I can do is detect and spellcraft.

I wasn't suggesting doing it randomly. Simply that she would try to activate it with Use Magic Device (a DC 20 check) if it would come in handy. The properties of the staff were already IDed.

Not to mention, saying, "But that's dangerous" in this party....? I think we're well past the safe zone anyway. ;)

Not to mention, saying, "But that's dangerous" in this party....? I think we're well past the safe zone anyway. ;)

Haha, yeah, sometimes. :) Also, "disguiting" from the staff description is supposed to be "disquieting." Oops! Sorry.

Shaedo was the one who was using caltrops before, although Ceru could certainly make use of them, but they are more the kitsune's schtick.

(^_^)

As for the staff, I don't think most of the spells would be anything Shaedo could trigger without UMD, and I don't think she would readily use such a disquieting ~_^ item unless it were really needed. She'll lay no claim to any of the other items, just the crossbow, caltrops and paints.
^-^

There are no bolts with the goblin. Plenty of still-shattered remnants thereof around the room, but no actual bolts. Though the mists are putting some together, they've only completed 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5 out of the dozens of ruined shafts around the room.

On a different note, it occurs to me that we might want a "lore keeper" or "chronicler" for our adventures. I can make periodic updates, of course, but I thought you guys might have fun keeping a record (in-character or out-of-) in a style you like. It'd need to be periodically, but not constantly, updated. It can be as fancy (though not too overly-detailed, please) or simple (though not too obliquely vague, please) as you like. Heck, different members could keep complimentary - or competing! - records of events.

My primary reason for suggesting such a thing is so that those that might otherwise get lost can simply read a single post. Something like, "After a wicked-strange storm with dragon (well, General Narahari?) and a winged skull, we managed to get inside High Tower, explore a trapped room with ritually burned bodies, and a side room filled with green mists, and now we're slowly heading back toward the main hall to take the last path." is a lot easier to read than our posting history, despite being a huge run-on sentence. :) Any takers?

Oh, and it can be in your profile, as a periodic post (which I would link on the main page) or anything else.

EDIT: Also note: extracts are generally only able to be used by the alchemist that created them. Infusions are a special kind of extract that function on others.[ just on case that wasn't clear.

@ Shaedo. Suny has some small skills at carpentry (Yes, I know it's technically 'Bower' or 'Fletcher' to make arrows and stuffs) so she can at least make little pointy sticks out of any wood they find. Hope that helps. (^_^)

As for the staff? Seems a tad squicky and icky to/for Suny. She's got her hands full now with Schnorzle and B-rat. (^_^)

Sunny can carve pointy sticks for Shaedo's crossbow? Sounds great! ^_^

A part of Shaedo's character that seems to be unfolding is that she is specially fond of spiky things, aaallmost as much as she is of shiny things! (Tehe!)
^-^
So if Sunny could make some spikies for Shaedo's nifty, tricksy new crossbow, you'll be a fox-friend for sure! ^_^

Well... Sunny only currently has a skill of +3.... and no real tools to work with.

Just pointing out (I think I see what I did there) that it's in the realm of possibility that Sunny can, maybe in the future, provide bolts, arrows, Wushu darts, wooden tonfa, staffs and such for people to use. (^_^)

Having been in a few games where either the adventure path or the DM were stingy with stuff has given e a good appreciation of being able to 'GO it alone' when it comes to making gear. :)

Gotcha; ) so maybe bolts and other goodies for later. ^_^ For now, the GM did mention broken bolts slowly mending in the green mists. Maybe if Shaedo keeps some of those in her green mist flasks, they'll mend up...

My primary reason for suggesting such a thing is so that those that might otherwise get lost can simply read a single post. Something like, "After a wicked-strange storm with dragon (well, General Narahari?) and a winged skull, we managed to get inside High Tower, explore a trapped room with ritually burned bodies, and a side room filled with green mists, and now we're slowly heading back toward the main hall to take the last path." is a lot easier to read than our posting history, despite being a huge run-on sentence. :) Any takers?

Shaedo has mentioned frequently songs she'd like to write about the group's adventures. While I won't promise anything, at least not anything super fancy, I could see Shaedo giving a summary of the adventure so far in the form of campfire songs- either in spoilers or links to something in profile! How's that sound? :)

Shaedo has mentioned frequently songs she'd like to write about the group's adventures. While I won't promise anything, at least not anything super fancy, I could see Shaedo giving a summary of the adventure so far in the form of campfire songs- either in spoilers or links to something in profile! How's that sound? :)

+1 (^_^)

Though I hope is not too much effort. Hmmmm... Is there a way to create an "Where the adventure is at" type of thread? :/

Much cheers to all.

Hmmmm... Is there a way to create an "Where the adventure is at" type of thread? :/

I've been thinking about this quite a bit. I don't have the ability to create a new thread, but perhaps the Recruitment thread could be used for this purpose? In other words, all new posts in Recruitment could be "here's where the game is now" - though I'm uncertain if that's a good idea, as it might make people think that we're currently recruiting by having a high activity level in that thread, which could cause confusion or disappointment...

I don't want to dedicate "discussion" to exclusively that sort of thing: I like the discussion we have here, both in-character and out.

Hence my suggestions. That said, if we want to create a thread somewhere, there's nothing wrong with that: maybe we could make something in Gamer Talk or Gamer Connection or something that I permanently link to, and just make updates there, probably with a specific coding to note the actual update post? I'm open to suggestions of any sort, though, of course, I'm not just going to say "that one!" regardless of the suggestion. :D

I also do love Shaedo's ideas, but, yes, I'm not looking to put unfun pressure on people to do stuff. It would be a service/fun thing on your part, not a requirement. ^-^

I've been thinking about this quite a bit. I don't have the ability to create a new thread, but perhaps the Recruitment thread could be used for this purpose? In other words, all new posts in Recruitment could be "here's where the game is now" - though I'm uncertain if that's a good idea, as it might make people think that we're currently recruiting by having a high activity level in that thread, which could cause confusion or disappointment...

I don't want to dedicate "discussion" to exclusively that sort of thing: I like the discussion we have here, both in-character and out.

Hence my suggestions. That said, if we want to create a thread somewhere, there's nothing wrong with that: maybe we could make something in Gamer Talk or Gamer Connection or something that I permanently link to, and just make updates there, probably with a specific coding to note the actual update post? I'm open to suggestions of any sort, though, of course, I'm not just going to say "that one!" regardless of the suggestion. :D

I also do love Shaedo's ideas, but, yes, I'm not looking to put unfun pressure on people to do stuff. It would be a service/fun thing on your part, not a requirement. ^-^

Actually... you can just make a new 'Game Thread'... Call it "Story time for GOB-Smash' and folks can post in there...?

See this game => Corsairs of Varisia

With this thread also => Corsairs of Varisia: Social RP

Jus' a thought? (>_>)

Much cheers ta' ALL! (^_^)

...That said, if we want to create a thread somewhere, there's nothing wrong with that: maybe we could make something in Gamer Talk or Gamer Connection or something that I permanently link to, and just make updates there, probably with a specific coding to note the actual update post? I'm open to suggestions of any sort, though, of course, I'm not just going to say "that one!" regardless of the suggestion. :D

I also do love Shaedo's ideas, but, yes, I'm not looking to put unfun pressure on people to do stuff. It would be a service/fun thing on your part, not a requirement. ^-^

I'd be happy to give it a try, whatever the format we end up using. The first party rest, perhaps Shaedo'll sing a chorus of the party's deeds so far. Something she loves doin' as it is! ^_^

My worry is that I end up taking it way too seriously, get all obsessive and then making it all out to more than it is. >.> So no promises still, but I'll try it out and see how it goes.

So I'm thinking I maay include a line of the song here and there, but mostly it will be in summary, as I have done with a few of her performances so far.

While another thread may be a good idea eventually, as Sunny suggests, I see that being more useful if a whole lot'a people start joining in with the song or the journal writing and summarizing. ^_^

Though that may be good venue for in character banter, hijinks, camp fire songs, and lot'sa riddle games! Tehe! ~_^
Shaedo certainly has a few other adventurers' travel songs she'd like to share...

I remember earlier, Eris posted her"journal" as a way of summing up the party. What do you think of that as the format for Shaedo's chorus, at least for at first?

If we keep a campaign journal, I'd suggest keeping it in the campaign journals subforum, and linking to it from the main campaign page.

Which? Link?

About the UMD on the staff:

"Activate Blindly: Some magic items are activated by special words, thoughts, or actions. You can activate such an item as if you were using the activation word, thought, or action, even when you're not and even if you don't know it. You do have to perform some equivalent activity in order to make the check. That is, you must speak, wave the item around, or otherwise attempt to get it to activate. You get a +2 bonus on your Use Magic Device check if you've activated the item in question at least once before. If you fail by 9 or less, you can't activate the device. If you fail by 10 or more, you suffer a mishap. A mishap means that magical energy gets released but doesn't do what you wanted it to do. The default mishaps are that the item affects the wrong target or that uncontrolled magical energy is released, dealing 2d6 points of damage to you. This mishap is in addition to the chance for a mishap that you normally risk when you cast a spell from a scroll that you could not otherwise cast yourself."

There's also a DC of 25. This is why I was wary of doing so.

Since we now know what it does, it activates as a wand does with a DC 20 to the check. However, it only holds a maximum of 10 charges and only a spellcaster can recharge it. It also uses the caster's Caster Level to determine the power of the spells cast from the staff. I don't know how that works with UMD.

Not to mention that most of the spells are divine in nature which means: "Emulate an Ability Score: To cast a spell from a scroll, you need a high score in the appropriate ability (Intelligence for wizard spells, Wisdom for divine spells, or Charisma for sorcerer or bard spells). Your effective ability score (appropriate to the class you're emulating when you try to cast the spell from the scroll) is your Use Magic Device check result minus 15. If you already have a high enough score in the appropriate ability, you don't need to make this check." Most of us can't even use it anyway.

The DC to activate a staff, knowing what it does, is the same DC as activating a wand or any other trigger item -- 20. (This is noted at the bottom of the UMD rules--the table says "Activate Wand" but the note at the bottom clarifies that is also the DC for any trigger item like a staff.) We had IDed the staff so I presumed there was no need to activate it blindly. Blind activation is for when you haven't identified things like a command word or what have you, or if you are trying to activate it without using the proper means (for example, I would presume, if you didn't want to speak the command word aloud to alert someone, you could try to "activate blindly" with a UMD check).

According to the very text you pasted, the ability score requirement is for casting from a scroll specifically, not a staff; scrolls are not trigger items like staves and operate differently. (And for the record, Ceru gets a bonus to use UMD with scrolls and other written forms of magic, should that come up, although obviously it is not relevant here).

I built this character to work a lot with Use Magic Device, and I've checked the rules carefully because of this. I always of course appreciate rule-checking as I frequently make mistakes, but I feel confident your concerns do not apply in this scenario.

THAT SAID, of course, the whole issue is largely irrelevant based on the fine print on the staff's description -- "a non-spellcaster can't use this item." Since the only way a non-spellcaster can use ANY staff is via Use Magic Device, I interpret this to mean "Use Magic Device does not work on this item."

Tac has said that isn't quite true but his explanation is confusing (sorry, Tac) and at best the most I got out of it was that, indeed, even if UMD does work on the staff, the DC for activating the staff using for UMD WOULD indeed be higher than the usual 20 and is thus not worth the risk.

So in the end: Ceru will not use the staff (and therefore, you are getting exactly what you want), and we can move on.

Tac has said that isn't quite true but his explanation is confusing (sorry, Tac) and at best the most I got out of it was that, indeed, even if UMD does work on the staff, the DC for activating the staff using for UMD WOULD indeed be higher than the usual 20 and is thus not worth the risk.

No sorries: it's definitely a bit confusing - and more so since I was confused! The short version: if you're not a spellcaster, you have +5 to your UMD. If it's in daylight, that's another +5. Currently you're not a caster, hence DC 25. If you'd be in daylight, it would be DC 30. Does that make more sense?

Also, everyone, please be aware, I'm not averse to being challenged or proved wrong by rules. I'll likely make calls "for now" whenever a situation comes up, but please do talk about rules here in discussion: that's part of what this place is for.

Also:

Which? Link?

This was my confusing way of asking which sub-forum. I didn't find it on a pass-through look, but having a toddler and ADD can do that. :) Do you mind linking that subforum?

http://paizo.com/paizo/messageboards/community/gaming/campaignJournals

On phone so too lazy to code, but there you go.

And yeah, the added UMD DC makes trying to use the staff not worth it, IMO. Junk it.

Awesome, thanks. :)
Also: up to you. Enjoy or junk, at your option. :D

Is ugly, icky staff. I say we trade it in if'n we can. Ya never 'junk' shiny. :P

Much cheers ta' all.

GM Tacticslion wrote:

With them is a maddened brain-broken ex-goblin (now blue and something else),

I din't realised Schnorzle were also a lil' blue as well...

GM Tacticslion wrote:

And a confused bound and bundled blue dire rat gnawing carefully on a stick dipped with elf-honey (or something - it doesn't know, but it's feeling better!*)

NOOO! Ye gots it arsed ta' front! T'is poor Schnorzle I be givin' tha' pacifier to (Will be makin' tha' next one out'a softer leather, but time is short at tha' moment) an' t'is B-rat who's been given somat ta' fill his (His?) tummy an' some thin' ta' sooth his (Not her?) thirst.

Sorry fer seemin' ta' wail, but t'is kind'a important (Well..t'is ta' Sunny, prolly not ta' any one else... (>_>)....

GM Tacticslion wrote:

* Yes, I'm aware that this is the elf styptic.

Whaaaaaaaat?!!?

Are you insulating that I made a mistake due to a toddler literally jumping on my head?!?!

I absolutely never make mistakes*^! Obviously, you simply misread the fact that I CLEARLY said that it was B-Rat that was drinking stuff and Schnorzle who had a pacifier^!

Harrumph.^

* Or lie^
^ That's a lie. :)

EDIT: (all that means is: whoops, my bad. Its Scnorzel on the pacy, not B-Rat. :D)

(^_^)

Aye, an' sorry I am if'n I come across.. well.. all cross, like.

I understand, with some many folks postin' stuffs, there be a lot ta' juggle.

So? Schnorzle be a tad blue? Kind'a like every one else? An' B-rat is a boy rat? That's right handy. :)

Wishin' ye an' every one else all'a very bestest! (^_^)

Can someone give me a recap of what happened since i went away? (ie after exploring the 1 st hallway)

i am having trouble putting the pieces of the puzzle..

tks in advance :)

I am not quite sure what we're looking at either (the Google map just shows a room, and I long ago resolved that I was sick and tired of making accounts for every g~&@%+n thing in the universe so I'm not setting up an account to look at Roll20, so I don't know what that shows. But point Ceru in a direction and she'll attack.

Makes total sense, Ceru. I've said in the past that I don't expect anyone to sign up for anything - it's just far uglier on google than it is in Roll20... though I hadn't been able to get Roll20 to work before now, so...

To describe the map a bit more, you guys are entering through the bottom "gap" - the end of an exceptionally long hallway with all sorts of doors. The "4" marks the entry to the spiral stairway that leads up. Though the google map doesn't show it, there are four small rectangular drains in the four corners, a big circular drain in the center of the room, and eight smaller square drains arranged in a circle. The actual drain shown on the map (the small black circle surrounded by red) is... simply placed incorrectly. No, I don't know why.

The circle that the map does show is where the rain/sluice/hail/mist is falling in, and the blue stuff is the water and detritus it brings in, as well as the green mist.

Also not depicted: the chain dangling in the middle of the room; the elaborate pulley-systems throughout the room; the intricate carvings that are substantially different from those seen so far.

Goblins start at the hallway opposite you guys - they're in the wider/big hall on top of the map. Two are just inside that hallway (about five feet in); three are surrounding a fire (a fire that sits inside the small corridor); and two more are at the 'uppermost' edge of the map. The light of the fire combined with the light from the lightning storm above is just large enough to cover everything that you can see on the map.

The weird wooden things are the 'cracked moldering tables on which lie rusted implements of iron' that I talked about.

Can someone give me a recap of what happened since i went away? (ie after exploring the 1 st hallway)

i am having trouble putting the pieces of the puzzle..

tks in advance :)

No problem: short version is that you explored the left passageway, found a couple of flying heads (Vargouilles), one of which kissed your two goblins (who were - apparently - healed by you guys), and a few weird magic items and masterwork goblin-sized items. There was a hole in the wall in which blue haze from the outside was slowly streaming in: blue haze that was being turned green by way of interacting with the yellow-gray metal grate that was placed into the hole.

You all played in green mists for a bit, but decided not to linger, you found a heavily mutated brain-broken starved goblin (named "Schnorzle" and adopted by Sunny) hiding from the vargouilles in a sarcophagus.

You headed back in, and up the last remaining doorway, (<- read that link and onward for details) and are currently at the end of said hallway. You'll want to make Perception checks.

tks DM

All: I've been working on setting up the ability to post while I'm out for the next three nights, but have been unable to do so. My apologies! As a family vacation goes, this has been planned for some time, is difficult to come by, and a rare opportunity... and I won't have access to a PC. That means that formatting posts is going to be hard... and I don't know that I'll have enough time to do so. Given that we're on the verge of a battle, I'm going to call a more-or-less short hiatus at this point until I return: I simply won't have the time, privacy, or focus necessary to properly run the thing. I'll be working on my post, however, and like what I've been seeing so far. Clever tactics! Please continue to post surprise and first-round actions until I get back. Peace to you all, and God bless you!

No worries DM take the 3 days off and don't fret on it

Enjoy your time off!

Wishing you a wonderful vacation! ^_^

Wishing everyone the best! ^-^

Have fun storming the castle!

Think they'll win?

It'd take a miracle.

Have fun storming the castle!

Think they'll win?

It'd take a miracle.

XD

Aye! All'a very bestest with yer kin time. (^_^)

Sorry, currently not feeling well. Will post when I can.

I'm back now too! Paizocon was a blast! Then I took a day to sleep and then was without internet while I floated down the river. Now back to work and regularly scheduled forum access!

Awesome! Any notable experiences to share from Paizocon??
^_^

I'm back! Processing the posts now, though it might be tomorrow before I actually post, due to "moving back in" syndrome. :D

All: thanks for the well-wishes! It was great! God rocks, and so does family!

Sunny: I'm sorry you're not feeling well! :( I hope you get better soon!

Vitreous: Huzzah! Welcome back! Load us up with extraneous information that none of us need and we'll all forget soon, except as a minor background information that may or may not come to mind later when dealing with you in the future! :D

Huzzah! 'Twas a great trip! We did indeed have fun storming the castle and survived!
Now, go Gob Smash One! :)

As we're in combat, it's a minimum of a round-per-day posting on my part.

I will update sometimes this evening 'round 7-10 tonight.

Wishing you and every one else all the very best. (^_^)

Of course, given the time zone difference, I'll be toddling off to bed here not long after this post. :p

All: I've updated Roll20, and even put characters for you guys down on that map.

They... aren't very good, but I defend my choices by saying a) the search function is really poor (why do I get more hunters searching for elf mages than for huntresses? Why does the rat-guy only appear for mages and not ratfolk, we're rat, rat guy, or rat?! Those pictures... sigh. And so on.) and b) I'm not you (and hence don't know your preferences).

If you'd like, there is a massive gaggle of character icons on the right . You may change yours out for one of those. I may change one or two others out. Alternatively, if you run a successful search for them, you can use that one.

Alright! Listen up, you mamma-fed rug-rats!

What we have here, is a serious kind of situation!

There are goblins! I repeat! There are goblins!

Now, I don't know how "you people" think about them - wherever you come from - but 'round the mana wastes - yes, Reb, it is technically the Grand Duchy of Alkenstar - *mutters* spoiled brat politician's son *gumble*, that is some serious business! Goblins are to be terminated with extreme prejudice! And to make sure that if they do stay around, they ain't happy!

So you are now reporting for duty - because I said so, that's why! - that the militia of Shan-town - no, I don't care what it sounds like in Elven, Reb, shut up and get in line, or so help me - and it is your job to do whatever I say! What-ever I say! Immediately!

You may not have signed up for this, but I. don't. care.

Whether you wanted this or not, you have now stepped in it very well and good, and take a long, hard whiff right through the nose, ladies, because it's. not. getting. better.

I am now your lord-high god and commander!

I am the one who controls your destiny, your thought, and your bodily functions! You heard me right: you do not take a crap without my say-so!

If I say, "I shine my shoes", you shine them until I've got a new pair of blinding shields on my feet!

If I say, "Jump," you had best be jumpin' before I manage to finish my sentence with, "-rope are needed for your trainin'" - WHY AREN'T YOU JUMPIN'?!?! ... that's better!

If I say, "Stay here until I say otherwise." you will die before you leave that spot! Do I make myself clear?!

...

...

... you have a question, ... Reb?

Are you stupid?! Don't be stupid!! Goblins can't control minds! They're savages! Dumb, stupid savages! Dangerous, but because of their fire!

*grumble* deliver me from this mortal coil that I need not put up with such stupidit-

...*wheeze* that... that wasn't a command, Reb... *gag*

~ the last words of Drill Sergeant Q. Miller as Private Reb B. ran him through with a spear, as recorded by Stone of Recall during the Great Goblin Invasion of Shan-town, five weeks past

When Shan-town - on the very edge of the Grand Duchy of Alkenstar - was first assaulted by goblins, none thought it was too serious. I mean, really, they were goblins - good for killing, and not much else, though, sure, if you didn't kill them quickly, they could be deadly, sure. Even the fact that they looked a bit odd didn't bother too much - after all, the sky was blue, the water was blue, and the mana wastes produced mutants who may as well have been blue, too.

When the militia began murdering their commanders, however, things started to be taken more seriously. That, combined with the complete lack of fire-use or traditional goblin songs has led many sages to speculate that something exceedingly strange is afoot - about the only thing these goblins do similarly to how any expect is eat the dead.

In the subsequent weeks, the goblin-war has been a serious problem for the western edge of the Duchy.

It is because of this that people from all walks of life - even those passing through, and some of the Shield Marshals (though some have volunteered) - that seem to have any reasonable degree of competence have recently been more or less forcefully been drafted into the military and, though many are unhappy, they're getting fair wage, the ability to loot dead goblins, and promise of promotion or freedom after the war - looking, thankfully, brief - is over.

Fortuitously for the Duchy, Amita Narahari, a brilliant-if-slightly mad sage from Vudra, had rather badly underestimated the wild magic of the mana wastes, and has found herself stuck in the Western region of the Grand Duchy of Alkenstar (originally aiming for Jalmeray, she missed), and her vast knowledge of bio-alchemical alteration, training, and military strategy has been able to turn the Shield Marshals and recently formed W.D.G.F.F. (Western Duchy Goblin Fighting Force) - the latter of which was founded on her suggestion - into a viable enough force to fight off the strange goblins. (She's assured all involved that and strange effects are strictly temporary. She thinks.)

As it turns out, she's recently discovered that blue is the key to defeating blue... or something; though it's possible that she's just making it up, it's certainly seemed effective so far, and, as a result, everyone has been equipped with a small selection of cracked magical rocks, blue whinnis poison (despite the fact that the concoction is mostly a pale-green, she insists that it works), and special uniforms made from a strange blue material recently uncovered. (See equipment, below.)

You lot have been thrown together in a haphazard fashion, "rigorously trained" for all of two days, in which you were temporarily hopped up on some rather powerful alchemical and magical enhancements and forced to read all you can about strike missions (through a magic ring shared between you), then, after a day of bed-rest, given a mission: go find the Hightower and ensure that it's been cleared of the goblin menace. Sadly, the alchemical and magical enhancements have faded and the ring was reclaimed by the forces that mandated you use it for two days anyway.

You don't really have much choice, considering you're both stuck here and kind of magically compelled to follow orders (and will be for another... week, from what you can tell, at least). Fortunately, your orders are at least somewhat vague - you just have to go, check for goblins, do your best to kill any goblins and stop any plans they have, and, after that's completed, report back, presuming you're capable of doing so.

Sounds easy. Looks easy. There's probably not even any real danger, since Hightower's been abandoned ever since a new Mana Well began spewing its weirdness out there... but that never happens anymore either. Probably.

Character Guidelines:
* 20 point buy
* any class whatsoever, preferably something fun (for you)
* for now, let's say you're starting at 2nd level, though I may switch that to 3rd level - we'll see (if several already-third-level characters come in, it'll be 3rd indeed)
* either way, you'll start with 3,000 gold; however, tell me what you're going for armor-wise/play style-wise, and I'll provide it as part of your enforced recent training
* we're not using an XP system, but we're going to be leveling according to adventure's completed ("at the speed of plot" in other words) - your rewards will be based on story, treasure, and non-tangibles
* don't worry about this being a "GM controls character" because other than, "go, find, kill/stop goblins, report if possible" you have no other strict commands and... well, let's just say it won't last anyway; despite the fact that there are some things that are planned, and this is for a relatively short set of adventures made for the lulz, this can be made more expansive and serious, if there's enough interest. I don't guarantee that there is.

To quote myself elsewhere,

If you want me to run a series of adventures, I can do that: the first would be little more than a couple of one-shot skirmishes that could (potentially) lead into more adventures.

1) A dark and stormy knight could (if you follow the clues/speak goblin) lead to...
2) ... a dry spell, that, in turn, could lead to...
3) ... a base of operations! (Though you might have to fend off a plague and/or some deep-earth critters, first.)
4) ... with a fond farewell and fangs for the memories!
5) (Optional: You quell a rising storm...)

Ultimately, it's up to you guys. This would just be for fun, not for keeps.

This will be set in the Mana Wastes.

It will be entirely up to the players if they want to continue.

Themes: goblins (lots of them! of all different types!), mutations, random magical events, the importance of a nice culinary experience, and the complete helplessness of a some folk without adventurers. Also a slowly mounting burden of leadership on all of you (though some of you may not quite realize it).

Over-all tone: fun! Silly! But with the potential for serious moments, and with genuinely serious consequences for failure... at least after the first one... Also, if you guys make the tone more serious, it will be more serious. There will always be a bit of surreality to the mix, but that won't be the focus if that's not what you want the focus to be.

... and maybe... just maybe... a touch of mythic. (Unless no one likes that, in which case, never-mind. :D)

There. The planning and prep-work is mostly done.

Also, be advised that I'll be importing older things - this is a blended game, based off of the fact that, hey, Mana Wastes amirite? - so there may be a few things that may seem a little unusual, but you probably won't notice. I hope. :D

If there's interest, I'll make a new forum.

I have no problem with more people showing up, either; just remember, if more players show up, the GM can always (well, almost always...) add more creatures, too. :D

EDIT:
To be clear:
* Beylinda EDIT: or a character made by the player
* Little Orphan Annie EDIT: or a character made by the player
* "Sunny" EDIT: or a character made by the player
* Snaglor EDIT: or a character made by the player
* Eolgrin Kalderon EDIT: or a character made by the player

... have first right. I'll be slightly tailoring this one to their over-all preferences. Example: it'll be in Golarion, unless you guys want something else. It'll be a little surreal, but it doesn't have to be goofy, unless you guys want it to be (that's just my natural tendency). Don't expect pure Golarion's goblins (which is, by the way, a plot point. You're welcome to the hint. :3) I'm willing to accept a larger group, third-party requires approval, and open-call for others.

Although the challenges are several different levels (increasing in difficulty each time), the over-all length is a little less than a single AP entry. In fact, it's about as much as 4-5 very small one-shots. You can do things in between those, though.

I'd hazard a few weeks to a couple months, total, with plenty of places to stop before hand, if you're not interested in continuing.

Planning is effectively completed for generic parties, will be tailored to the specific party we end up with.

Due to the nature of the game I'm setting up (and location), participation will not disqualify you from this one. It's really as simple as a flash of magic...

So, let me know. I'll get my GM face on, if you like.

If you don't - no hard feelings in the slightest. I'm happy! :D

Currently, I've got three people (one of which is not listed above), but I want you to post one post as your primary Alias (mine would be Tacticslion, but, you know, I'm not a player, so woo-hoo! free bird!), and then post as your submitted character.

The final decision of whether or not you are in this game is mine, and mine alone, and reasoning is mine, if I do.

I don't particularly care to reject anyone, but I do have my limits, and I'll apply them, though probably regretfully, if I need to.

Do not be shy about placing a specific character here: there are plenty of potential reasons for a character to be here... and to suddenly leave. If you have a character you've made and you want o use them, but don't want to lose the ability to play them in another game... no problem. Seriously.

I will also likely be adding a couple of abilities or traits and items to the crew, tailored to the final make-up of the party and how important (or not) I deem it; if it helps the story, you guys'll be gettin' some stuff; if it doesn't, you won't.

And you're likely going to be slightly... scarred.

In a good way.

Regardless, peace, and I hope you're ready to have some semi-serious fun, because I know I am.

At work.

*Bounces to attention*

I be here! (^_^)

Will re-read through opening post when I can. (^_^)

Just a note to the DM. Are you aware/familiar with the 'Wand rifle'? It was created/detailed in a module a while ago, though I admit to mot having seen it since.

Basically a stock who's trigger acts as a mechanical UMD for any wand locked onto it.

Also adds a +2 to hit with ranged ray attacks.

Again, am at work but though it worth bringing to you attention. You adventure being set in the Alkenstar area of Golarion. (^_^)

Also...would you be against adding a 'stock' and fireing mechanism to 'Bottled lightning' (An alchemical thing in the SRD) to create a one shot at a time ranged weapon?

Sorry for the weird ideas but thought I'd post them and help a bit. (^_^)

I'd like in. I'll read the OP in more detail and come up with a character submission by Tuesday. Is that soon enough?

Sounds Good; EDIT: Work is a thing people do, I've heard. :)
Yes; EDIT: I've heard of it, but I don't know the details; I like the concept :)
No; EDIT: but you'd need to post it before final approval :)
Yes; EDIT: Tuesday is soon enough :)

in that order. EDIT: :D

I be all okeys fer yer game? I'll be adjustin' things when I can fer level an' stuffs when I can, but on tha' whole I be all okeys, yeah? (^_^)

well this is my primary alias.

and bcease I didn't get to play Lulu very long I will be submitting in that alias.

here is the alias.

I am sure there will be questions regarding the character and as soon as I can I'll try an answer them.

Well, this looks like fun. If you've got room, I'd think about entering (wasn't clear with three players already how many more you'd want?). And see if I could come up with a good character soon.

Deathquaker...If you can be a small race we could be friends...

even more fun if we were all small races....

Lighting just ate my post/turned off my power.
Short version
Sunny: no need to level down.
Could Sunny or Lulu hunt down and contact/PM those on the list for me? Thunderstorm and iPads makes that frustrating.
DQ, it's always a pleasure. Feel free. Nebulous number of players on purpose.

EDIT: sigh. iPad.

EDIT 2: this time with feeling!
EDIT 3/1: actually, I'm just making a new post instead of editing my above post.

Trying to add what I said before, but it's less eloquent (bad) and probably less clear (bad) but also probably shorter (very good!).

First, be aware that surreal or humorous else bee will be treated with deadly seriousness by those in the world... because it will be. See the quote in the first post as an example.

There are going to be a great many strange and weird events that are likely to occur. Some of which may well impact your character - permanently, or temporarily, it's probably up to you. If you want to keep the change, roll with it and it makes solid RP, otherwise, there will be ways of changing those elements.

While those events within this game can be considered canon for your character history, there is going to be enough plausible deniability and random chance that any character submitted here can show up elsewhere.

The only things you definitely need to have are your characters' stats mostly (not fully) banged out - again, yell me what general kind of armor/clothing/etc you're after, so I can give you specific things along that line that you don't have to pay for (examples like "I'm thinking light armor Locke chain and buckles" or "I was thinking heavier armor to maximize my AC despite low dexterity" are fine, but "I'd like a mithril breastplate" will not, in fact, get you a mithril breastplate; reasoning and general idea rather than specifics :) - and how you ended up near Alkenstar. BEFORE YOUR FINAL STATS ARE DOWN: I will give you a few final boons.

I forgot to mention: you gain two free additional skills that must be craft, perform, or profession.

Were you born there? Did a random magic storm suddenly envelope you to deposit you there? Did you come to study the gun works or mana wastes? If you traveled, did you come through the Mwangi, Nex, the sea, or (somehow) Geb?

Are you a volunteer for the W.D.G.F.F., or we're you drafted?

IF YOU ARE A GUNSLINGER: are you a shield marshal? (If so, you likely volunteered, though it's possible you were legally re-assigned to the W.D.G.F.F.; which was it?)

Submitting to change my son's diaper...

Uh... and older, un-edited version of my post, seems to have been saved in my post-box in the computer.

No, I don't know why this version specifically.

Anyway (with apologies for the bad English in the post title)

Feel free to submit if you like, DQ! I'd love to have you!

My point is that the players listed above were first priority/vote.

How many players is left up in the air on purpose: that crew gets to decide how many more they want (I pre-accepted someone else based on the chat in another thread), though if they don't have a particular preference, I'm a "the more the merrier" kind of guy.

It's kind of their show, as I liked their character concepts in another thread (though they're free to use different characters here!), I'm just running it for 'em. :D

Sunny, your character works. You don't even have to de-level her, if you don't want - that was the nature of my "iffy" status on 3rd level. If you do start at 3rd level, everyone will simply level up one additional time before you do. (Having level 1 in three different classes isn't likely to overpower anyone else's build in any case. At all.) So just as you are, works. :)

(Also, hey, Lulu or Sunny, would you mind tracking down and contacting/PMing some of the others on that list for me and link this thread? They can let me know whether or not they're interested. I'm actually stepping out soon, running out of time to handle a few things, and don't know when I'll be back on today, so....)

Oh, and one important note: your characters will go through really odd things. Sometimes they may (at least temporarily) come out changed. You can always find your way back out of that, should it happen to you, or you can choose to alter and adapt.

The most important thing, here, is fun.

There will be very silly things occurring, and being taken deadly seriously by those in the game... because, at the same time, they're deadly (and thus serious) - see the quote at the top, for an example.

Also lots of nuggets and references for those who care to find them in that first post. :)

I'm going to roll a Goblin Ranger named Ooze Flearin "Kinslayer". He is very upset about the strange behavior of these traitor breathren.

I'd like to submit
Gnome Experimental Gunsmith
Vitreous "Darling" Drimplegatto

Profile is partially complete, will get full stat block with feats and skills later tonight.

Why am I in Alkenstar: Well the best place to find parts or idea for building the perfect gun/woman(see profile) would be at the gunworks.

For "armor" I'd like a kind of duster made out of a material like darkleaf for armor. Gunslinger in the desert totally needs a duster, especially if he's only 3 foot 1 inches tall and moving at 15 foot will be even tougher since standard armor coats are medium armor. Goggles would be a necessity as well, they don't need to be particularly fancy.

Arrived in the wastes 73 years 2 months and 17 days ago , in a barrel labeled "Explosifes Hardled with carts". No one can really say how it got there and Drimplegatto isn't telling.

Drafted? More like abducted.
Gunslinger archetype that attempts to stay off the Shield Marshall's radar as it were.

"Look, I know it looks like I belong here. But I didn't volunteer for this, I've got things a brewing back home. Special experiments that will change the uni.. umm... things." Shouts a gnome with masterfully coifed mustache and shockingly blue hair running down the hallway. His smoked goggles hanging around his neck, show many years of explosive use. "... and where the heck are my clothes?!"

It appears that this gnome was abducted by recruiters while he was in a drunken stupor. He apparently woke up right after they took his clothes and were attempting to stuff him in a uniform. He managed to escape the dressing room completely naked except for his goggles and run at top speed right into Amita Narahari.

"Why hello, beautiful! How do you feel about replacing that arm with a nice new mechanical model? I have just the thing right here." Darling turns about in circles searching for his backpack then realizes he is stark naked and blushes a deep purple all over his body and then covers himself...

EDIT:

Adding more; ... lowering the list to make easier reading

EDIT 2: linking for ease

Because there's been a great deal of interest in the small races thing, and I can use that for story-purposes, allow me to present a semi-comprehensive (to the best of my knowledge) list:

* gnome (or svirfneblin; ask about this option first, please)
* halfling
* goblin (or goblin monkey)
* grippli
* kobold
* ratfolk
* wayang
* gathlain

SPECIAL: ask about these first, please
* kitsune (variant)
* android (unique)
* aasimar/tiefling (choose another race on this list - you look like the other race)
* ghoran - ask about this first, please
* wyrwood - ask about this first, please

ALSO CAN FIT ON-THEME
* dwarf (or duergar) - presume minimum possible height, in this case; I will work with you

This is my usual avatar. My suggested and in-progress character Layla the Twin-Blade will appear below...

Ooh ooh, pick me! I can help! Lemme at those murderous scum! My twin blades will make short work of 'em! ... Short. Heh.

*Laughs brightly, enjoying the gathering of teh cute folks. (^_^)

I'm interested but how will being in the Mana Wastes affect a spellcaster? I've been shopping around a witch character that I'd like to play but I understand if the setting would just make that too impractical.

It will be a bit more pressure on casters due to the potential wild magic/primal event/etc results, but you should be able to play a witch just fine. In fact, casters are especially welcome, as they make the story a little more interesting, if you don't mind the occasional low-potential of maybe turning semi-permanently blue, purple, or green (or something). :)

(In other words, any character you bring to the table will be effective; I'm not going to be running a character-ruining game, but I might have a character-changing game, and there are always ways to reverse the effects in-character, if you feel strongly enough about them.)

Hey. I was wondering about traits as they weren't mentioned in the creation part. Might work up a variation of an old 2ed character of mine.

Oooo...thas' a point. I'll has ta' be seein' how 'Ki' points pan out,an' all.

Oof.

I forgot about traits! My apologies!

They were intended.

Updated Guidelines:

Character Guidelines:
* 20 point buy
* any class whatsoever, preferably something fun (for you)
* for now, let's say you're starting at 2nd level, though I may switch that to 3rd level - we'll see (if several already-third-level characters come in, it'll be 3rd indeed)
* either way, you'll start with 3,000 gold; however, tell me what you're going for armor-wise/play style-wise, and I'll provide something similar as part of your enforced recent training
* we're not using an XP system, but we're going to be leveling according to adventure's completed ("at the speed of plot" in other words) - your rewards will be based on story, treasure, and non-tangibles; potential level is up to sixth
* don't worry about this being a "GM controls character" because other than, "go, find, kill/stop goblins, report if possible" you have no other strict commands and... well, let's just say it won't last anyway; despite the fact that there are some things that are planned, and this is for a relatively short set of adventures made for the lulz, this can be made more expansive and serious, if there's enough interest. I don't guarantee that there is.
* two traits
* two additional skills chosen from craft, perform, or profession; these are in addition to your normal skills for your class and intelligence

I have a question across the board, for the players to answer:
Mythic: yes/no/maybe/Other: <explain>? (Choose one that applies.)

EDIT: Also, let's mandate that those who are not grandfathered in be required to have a small-sized character. That'll make the choices easier. As mentioned before, the players with potentially grandfathered races (those listed in my first post up top) can instead choose new characters; however, let's make these new characters small-sized, too. If you know of creatures I missed, let me know.

EDIT 2: Also, psionics is allowed, if desired. I'm well aware of the arguments, and fairly versed on the rules. Thanks! :D

Ooze's

Ooze, like most goblins, is an evil being, hellbent on destruction. Fortunately for the peaceful folk of Alkenstar, he his exclusivly genocidal against his own kind. Who knows what foul mutation caused him to be so reproachful of the race of his birth, but Ooze won't stop until he is the only goblin left, believing that he will gain the strength of all the foes he fells in combat.

He is in Alkenstar to deal with the Goblin threat and has volunteered for the W.D.G.F.F.

Light armors, and anything with a "hunting" or "destruction or goblins" theme. Uses bows and will take any weapon or magical item that further increases his martial aptitude or his ability to find/kill his bethren.

Yes to Mythic! Goblin Champion here!

If the pre-accepted group is happy to take one more, I would like to join up as well. I have a character concept in mind- a kitsune ninja/bard if that combination of race and classes is okay. I'm thinking she's a performer by evening, and then a stealthy, magical thief by night. Those pesky goblins, however, stole the night from her- forcing to get up in the (gasp!) morning to fight them. She has bloody vengeance on her mind. If that sounds good, then I'll post the character as an alias later this evening.

Oh, right, we pickin' stuff?
I want some light armor I can move okay in, like maybe studded leather or sumat, and, a' course, my twin blades!... light, maybe short swords... definitely identical to each other... definitely sharp and shiny ...Gotta love 'em! :)
Hey, while we're askin', can we all have rings o' sustenance? It'll keep us go in' against the gobs!

Suthuri, I PM'd you. Please respond so we can get something built! :)
EDIT: Asking nicely will get you... the armor that I'm making for your style of play rather than the armor you're looking requesting. :)
Outside of armor, you buy your own stuff at present. :D

GM do you need the stats for Lulu's race?

it is from the Heroes of the Jade Oath book from Rite Publishing.

when I put it together with the race builder it comes out to be a 12 point race.

I'd love that as a PM, Lulu. I was, in fact, just looking for it right now! :D Great timing, really.
EDIT:
mythic "yes" 1
mythic "no" -
mythic "maybe" -
mythic "other" -

EDIT 2: Okay, until the other "auto-in" people weigh in, no more submissions at present. If they opt-out, then I may accept more. Thanks!

EDIT 3: What I mean by that is that if you've made a post in this thread (or are on my list in my OP), you are okay to submit a character. If you have not yet posted in this thread, you may post here, but no further submissions of characters at this time.

EDIT 4:
People who have been grandfathered in, submitted posts, or similar. These people are effectively accepted until or unless they drop out.

* Edward Sorbel: Lulu Yordle Little Orphan Annie
* Sunset: "Sunny"
* Gridlock god of Rage: Snaglor (or a different character made by Grid for this game)
* Algar Lysandrius: Beylinda Chumana (or a different character made by Algar for this game)
* Jon the Unlucky: Eolgrin Kalderon (or a character made Jon player for this game)
* Gobo Horde: Stone (or a different character made by Gobo for this game)
* Viskous: Vitreous "Darling" Dimplegatto
* Bane88: Crunch
* Suthuri: (character in progress)
* Death Quaker: character in theory
* grimdog73: character in theory
* Larkos: character in theory

At potentially twelve characters, we've quite a few!
With this large a group (if all respond), we're going to be running things a little differently. I'll post more on how, when necessary.

Dagnabit! I had just finished a PC. :(

I choose Mythic yes but not sure which path for Lulu

aslo should I level up Lulu to 2 or 3?

Two for now.
Also: sigh. I'm softie sucker. I may regret this, but post your character, Andrea1 - let me see it. :)
EDIT: but make it quick!

At work.

Thumbs down to mythic.

mythic "yes" 1
mythic "no" 1
mythic "maybe" -
mythic "other" -

Yay! Here is Groot!

You're coding's a bit off fixed, I'm afraid happy to say!
But as for the character, you're a half-orc: we're doing small races at present (except for those who wish to be grandfathered in), so that's a non-starter, I'm afraid.
PM me with your pitch/wants for a half-orc, and we'll see if we can work something out.

You still recruiting?

Mythic Maybe - I'm really fine either way.

I know it takes a bunch of work on the GM side of things and if you haven't really prepared it mythic characters destroy regular content, which I discovered the hard way.

Never mind. No unspiration for small PC

Updated Stat Block for level 2

I know you're going to have a lot of players submitting for this, so it may be hard for me to get in. But I'm going to apply anyway--this looks like a heck of a lot of fun!

This is my primary alias, and I'll be submitting the prideful and arrogant sorceress Eris Kaddren below. She's just about ready to go, though I'll need to finish spending her gold and bring her up to the campaign level (either 2 or 3, whichever is decided upon). Oh, and I'll need to add her bonus skills, probably Perform (Writing) and Craft (Calligraphy).

Please check out Eris' profile to see her personal letter to the W.D.G.F.F.!

Fair 'nough, Andrea! Sorry! Maybe next time.

Vitreous, your point is well-taken. I am (I hope) familiar enough with mythic to make it work anyway. Perhaps we'll see!

Azaelas, the answer is "maybe". Check the character creation guidelines here and here (or just... scroll up), and PM me your idea.

mythic "yes" 1
mythic "no" 1
mythic "maybe" 1
mythic "other" -

So far is mythic "maybe" which will mean that it's up to me. I ahve my own leaning, but I'll continue to wait interested in the responses in general.

Eris strides cockily into the main room, sparing a glance and a snort for the other recruits. "Hrumph."

She folds her arms and glares around the room. "Listen up, troops! My name is Eris Kaddren, and I'll be your squad leader for this mission. Now, first of all, you'll want to know what my favorite--"

"What? Oh, yes, I'm aware that a squad leader hasn't officially been named yet. But it's obvious, isn't it? Who else has the poise, the confidence, the aura of command? I'm clearly the only reasonable option."

Eris nods, her logic self-evident, and heads for the mess table. Then she pauses, doing a quick double-take at the gathered recruits. "Um. I'm sorry, did I miss a memo or something? Why are you all so short?"

(Pfft-Hahah! "Medium". Heheheh!) Uh, what? Nothing. Carry on, citizen. (Heehee!)

EDIT:

The PM should be away shortly.

Hmmm... I think a husband is in the doghouse for completely forgetting his wife on the character list above... ;)

Received and responded, Azaelas.

Also: urg. Forgot to list Layla the Twin-Blade before.