”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Spellcraft (Do I even know of any Neg Energy Spells?):1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19
"Negative energy spells hrm... like undead spells? Strength stealing spells? Undead making spells? Those must really make your enemies cry and wail! Do their eyeballs shrink up in their heads when you do it?"
Vanarog continues his merry discussion about spells and magic while the others do whatever they wanted to do.
There's no way Vanarog is going to lead anything off, he's just chatting with a dragon, so feel free to steer things one way or another here.
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
Pethjun waits as the softscales intent on talking to the dragon representing the biggest threat to the Sewer Dragons, talk on.
Giving the talky one and the uppity one a alightly annoyed glance, she start watching the dragon, trying to judge his strength and how readily they could take him in a fight. But to try keep the fight from breaking out before everyone is ready she instead tries to hide her staring behind a mask of admiration.
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Having been quite and awestruck for the last few minutes Athrax finally interjects a little. "You know I recall at one point in my days of learning from that crackpot about an ability to transform others metals into Gold. It could even change a rather large horde, as such as you lord over right now, and even more I do recall that it might involve some Honey in the mix and a few choice ingredients. Also an Immense Heat source that is pulled in just at the right moment. It would have to be an immediate high degree not a build up either." Athrax thinks about how he might help setup the 'Hidey minion' as Skyrahk has dubbed the rogue, while also planting a few bombs to be triggered at just the right moment.
“I can breathe negative energy on my enemies, and yes their eyes ro—” Whatever else the dragon would have said is lost as Fazgyn suddenly becomes visible in a whirr of poisoned blades and death, dealing an astonishing thirty six points of damage as he strikes!
Fotitude Save vs Poison:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22
The dragon shakes off the poison damage!
Since you all were readying attacks, I am giving you one surprise round to cast spells, move or attack now that that deadly attacks of Fazgyn hit. If you stated an action, I am botting it.
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Engashez dismisses her disguise, the image of Jegan flickering away to reveal her true draconic form. "I really do worship you..." she whispers before she begins beating her drum in an inspiring rhythm.
"It's just that you're the means to a much better end."
Inspire Courage (Su): A 1st-level bard can use his performance to inspire courage in his allies (including himself), bolstering them against fear and improving their combat abilities. To be affected, an ally must be able to perceive the bard's performance. An affected ally receives a +1 morale bonus on saving throws against charm and fear effects and a +1 competence bonus on attack and weapon damage rolls. Inspire courage is a mind-affecting ability. Inspire courage can use audible or visual components. The bard must choose which component to use when starting his performance.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Vanarog's eyes go wide a bit as blood starts spraying, almost as if he'd forgotten the reason they'd come in the first place. Oh yes, kill this dragon for the scale, hrmph.
He quickly unfurls the parchment in his hand and begins reading the words as best he can, for they are normally out of his grasp.
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
GM:
I would love to say that I didn't mention this earlier due to waiting to see if those crits confirmed, but honestly, I completely forgot about it!! Anyways, Fazgyn has Debilitating Injury that can be applied to his confirmed Crits. If you would allow the late application, I would like to use Disoriented: The target takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls. In addition, the target takes an additional –2 penalty on all attack rolls it makes against the rogue. If you feel it is too late, that is fine too!!
First round action: Assuming here that Pethjun steps forward and attacks during the surprise round, providing flanking for the both of us!
Fazgyn just about grins his head off as his blades sink to their hilts in the dragon. "You attacked our home, we attack your home. Fair, right?!" He waits until Pethjun makes her first attack before he darts in on the distracted dragons other side!
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
Pethjun's self imposed silence dissipates when Fazgyn reappears behind the somewhat weak looking dragon. She smiles at the rogue's deep cuts, before giving a hissing laugh. "There's no way I'd worship something as weak looking as you! Having to steal your mother's power just to do anything? Pathetic." She then draws her rapier and using her shield as cover rushes up to the wrymling.
Waiting a second to double check what Fazgyn is doing, Pethjun then tries to time her rapier and tail swings with the rogue. "Can't wait to see Chief Yiddlepode's reaction when I tell her I took down a true trueblood!"
__________
Surprise round: Move'n'Draw
First round: Full attack with flank
Bringing the PAIN:
+1 Rapier, flanking, IC, vs. Flat-footed:1d20 + 10 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 10 + 1 + 2 = 14 The Damage, Dirty Fighter, Favored class bonus, IC:1d4 + 6 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 6 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 13 Mwk Razor Tail, same bonuses as above:1d20 + 4 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 4 + 2 + 1 = 10 Damage, Same bonuses as above:1d6 + 1 + 1 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 + 1 + 2 + 1 = 7 Ugh, The RNG is hating me today, 3 attack rolls less than five! (one from a different thread.) Here's hooping Mr. Wrymling has a crap Flat-footed AC
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Athrax moves about to gain a better vantage point to attack the bad bad dragon. Drinking his Mutagen his bodies begins to change his arms grow in length and his step seems to be more reflexive in his dash.
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
NOT ME! I just LMAO when I looked to see what my strength even was.. its a 9!!
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Skyrahk takes out her scroll of spiritual weapon, and tells the blade that appears to attack the blasphemous dragon.
attack:1d20 + 3 + 3 ⇒ (16) + 3 + 3 = 22 damage:1d8 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9 I have not applied anything from haste or inspire courage, because it's not clear to me at this time of night if those apply to spiritual weapon
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
Yup Pethjun is using strength, though I doubt she needs the boost for that.
Under a barrage of deadly output from several sources, the anticipated battle ends anti-climactically, with the dragon shrieking, “Mothe—!” as the force of Skyrahk’s blade stops it mid-scream.
You stand for a moment, chilled as the wind on the parapet whips pasts you and you look out at the glowing hives of the light weavers in the distance. There is a small shadowy dragon corpse, still clutching a scale.
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Fazgyn stands back, wiping his blades clean before resheathing them. "Well fought. That was much easier than I expected!!!" he exclaims. Carefully he looks about the room for anything interesting while Skyrahk takes the scale.
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
"Hmmm. I agree. That was a true trueblood? Shameful."He was impressive while we were talking... but we shouldn't have even been talking; he never should have fallen for our trick, which left him weak to our blades. His mother will be pleased we destroyed the weakness in her lineage.
"We need to get this scale to the mother. As much as I love Shadow Absalom, we have our own sewers to protect."
As much as she argues for urgency, she herself takes plenty of time to go over the room thoroughly, not wanting to leave anything important, useful, or overly shiny behind.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
The words of magic have barely left Vanarog's lips as the young pure blood falls over dead "Well, my magic is so powerful it made the pure blood fall over dead! We must have a look around yes? Where is that scale..." He glares at the hooded one as she snatches it before he can get close.
That one... needs to fall down a deep hole.
He heads over to the mount of coins and looks around for anything more useful... and lighter. Perception:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21
Meanwhile, as a group you search the place. Shadrixis may have been very young, but he had a nicer hoard than you initially expected. His horde contains some silver gold and platinum coins under all that copper as well as an onyx gem.. He has also buried a few minor magic items within the coins: a traveler's any-tool, a black velvet pouch filled with dust of emulation, and an aegis of recovery.
What is next? I heard one vote to return the scale to Her Royal Majesty Queen Argrinyxia. Does anyone else concur?
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
As you make your way down the stairs and out of the tower, your guide, Y’xilix, pulls back the gossamer curtain of light that she had wrapped about herself. Seeing the scale in Skyrahk’s hands, her eyes light up. “You have recovered the scale, honorable dragons! And does the treacherous wyrmling Shadrixis still live?”
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
The forums ate my post last night and because it was after midnight I didn't want to get one together again. I really wanted to get something in about Shadrixis, though.
Pethjun scowls in disdain as the wrymling goes down. "What? That was all he had? I would have expected more of a fight from a true trueblood." With a snort she goes over to check that the thing really is dead and not faking, before cleaning her weapons.
"Before we head on like the talky one is suggesting, let's see if this ...thing had better shiny-shinys than some copper pieces." She helps with sifting through the peices deiding to pocket a few of the shinier coins to look at later.
----------
Pethjun jumps into a defensive position, rapier in hand, when Y’xilix decloaks. It takes her a second to realize that it's just their guide. Lowering her blade she scoffs. "He... No, IT was pathetic! Didn't even lash out at one of us before going down! It won't be bothering anyone anymore."
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
"My powerful majiks tore it apart Y’xilix. For a true blood he was very stupid and weak. We did his mother a favor. Now we must close this portal to our world." He takes a few steps and the jingle of coins in his pockets are evident.
Skyrahk is surprised that even the Uppity Minion would in this way take credit for the actions of others. She gives the Sneaky Minion a sympathetic glance, it's no fun when your proper credit is stolen. She also makes sure, it what's supposed to be a casual manner, that Y'xilix sees that she is the one carrying the scale. "We are on our way to return the scale to the Honorable Argrinyxia. Do you believe that Her Majesty will receive us under these circumstances? And can you tell us how to find her?"
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
Pethjun scoffs at Vanarog's claim. "Your magics? Pefah! You didn't even use the scroll! It was mostly me and the Trap master that did anything! Though Skyrak helped some as well, and maybe the yappity one. But you did not take him down!"
She nods in agreement with Skyrahk, "Right, don't want to see mama if she's going to be pissed about her baby... though that could be fun, too."
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Engashez laughs to herself as Vanarog gets put in his place, privately enjoying this humiliation, and curious to see how the arrogant minion will spin it in his favor. He always finds a way!
But she doesn't linger on this private joy, and instead gets down to the task at hand.
"There's a chance that Argrinyxia will mourn her child... but not likely. How could you truly love a child as weak as that... especially one that had stolen from its mother in the first place?" Engashez nods towards the scale in Skyrahk's hands... a scale much larger than could ever have come from Shadrixis.
You are true dragons, and have given this one much cause for joy! With that, Y’xilix throws up her hands and enormous fireworks hit the sky. They are dragons dancing in a dozen different colors as they shoot across the sky with enormous booms. Then a ways off, more fireworks shoot up, then more further off still. Their booms echo, one after another, growing ever softer in the distance. We are notifying the Queen, Y’xilix explains as the fireworks relay expands across Shadow Absalom. Come, let us go meet her.
But the lightweaver does not take you throughout the city, but instead waits until a vast shadow flies overhead, eventually landing near you. Argrinyxia lands, a regal monarch of scales and shadows. “We have been called. What news have you for us, Lightweaver?”
Both the dragon and the lightweaver stare at one another for one minute, perhaps two minutes of silent conversation. Then the queen inclines her head to all of you. “Y’xilix tells me that I owe you two favors. One for ridding me of a thief and a traitor, and one for for retrieving that which was stolen from me. Are these facts true...” The monarch pauses. “...we realize that we do not how you wish to be addressed. What are we to call you?”
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Vanarog crosses his arms at Pethjun as he makes claims "I most certainly used that scroll of powerful majiks. The spell on that scroll helped all of you slay the true blood!" He stands there indignantly. "It isn't clear exactly how much was the spell and how much was your blades, but BOTH were involved. A win for the Sewer Dragons in any case."
He then turns away, dropping the subject, and taking out a small vial and drinking some of it. These tears are so sweet. It looks like I have more names to add to my list...
As the Queen Trueblood shows up, Vanarog bows graciously as she addresses him "I am known as Vanarog the Majestic, truest in Dragon Blood of the Sewer Dragon Tribe, and caster of powerful majiks." He smiles as he rises. He quickly adds "And yes WE destroyed the traitor and reclaimed your scale. We came to close the portal opened to our home."
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
"We are the True Dragons of Absalom!" Engashez, overcome with awe at Argrinyxia's magnificence, surprises herself with her outburst. Unable to believe she has the composure to even speak, she talks right over Vanarog's words, pushing right past his more regal introduction.
Edit because we clicked "Submit" at the same time.
Once she has begun to speak, though, her confidence returns just a bit. This is my job in the tribe, after all! Get it together!
"We are Pethjun, the fighty minion, Fazgyn, the sneaky minion, Athrax, the blasty minion, Vanarog, the uppity minion, and Skyrahk, the... what kind of minion are you, Skyrahk?"
A look of recognition washes over her face as something clicks! Her eyes grow a little bit darker... then mischievous.
"Skyrahk, the preachy minion. Oh, and I'm Engashez... they call me the talky minion."
“We are honored to meet you, ‘True Dragons’.” The Queen seems amused at your group appellation, and says the name in a tone of slight irony. She embraces your minion honorifics with more enthusiasm, however. “Pethjun, the fighty minion! Fazgyn, the sneaky minion! Athrax, the blasty minion! Vanarog, the uppity minion!” She pauses for a moment. “That honorific fits you quite well, Vanarog. Skyrahk, the preachy minion, and you Engashez, the talky minion! It seems that we share a purpose, for that unauthorized portal into our realm is an abomination.”
The queen turns to Skyrahk, holding out an open claw. “We would like our scale returned to us, Preachy Minion.”
“Thank you.” The Queen graciously inclines her head, and says, “You would all be well-advised to stand way back.” She flies upwards, and once you and Y’xilix are well away from the tower, the queen flings the scale with unerring accuracy at the negative energy portal. As the scale hits, there is a percussive shock wave that knocks you all to the ground, and the tower shakes and then starts to fall, its dark purple stone walls crumbling to rubble and dust. As you cough through the clouds of rock dust, you feel a strange tugging sensation from within as the portal that you came through — the one that you could feel no matter where you traveled in Shadow Absalom — collapse in upon itself as the scale used to create it was destroyed.
“Y’xilix, you and your Lightweavers have served us faithfully,” the Queen announces. “We return your lands to your people, and promise help clearing this rubble away a week from now, once all in this city have had a chance to visit, and see what happens to traitors.”
Thank you, Majesty! Y’xilix drops to her knees, sobbing but emoting a soft rosy light of hope. Thank you, True Dragons!
Citizens of Shadow Absalom, drawn by the fireworks and the explosion, come out, and seeing her majesty, form an impromptu parade as you march triumphantly through the streets back to the center of town.
“Minions,” the Queen continues, “we know you serve another monarch. But should you ever wish to travel again, know that you are welcome to my court.”
The booms of fireworks of celebration light the sky, as you return.
Anything else you want to do or say before you return home?
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Vanarog looks a bit unhappy at his nickname but he doesn't let it bother him for long. "Could we visit your court before we leave oh great Dragon? It would be good to see how such a powerful True Blood lives, maybe us taking back tokens of your affection to show the rest of the Tribe would cement our good standing for the future!"
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Athrax sits back as the Uppity one again professes his utmost power. Ribbing Engashez he whispers under his breath to her "He must seriously be compensating for something. I need to find out what." with a final laugh the Blasty Minion watches the grand spectacle and marvelous entrance of the Queen.
Slowly moving his pockets full of all sorts of odds and end he could use for shrapnel mumbling to himself "I wonder if I could harness the portal's abilities to create a displacement bomb. Oh and if I catch them just right Half of them could show up her.." jotting more gruesome notes in his journal he hopes to show the venture captain Dreng when he gets back. Maybe this time I will be granted admittance into the Society and complete my own Confirmation.
"Thank you Queen, for your offer to join your brood but We must return and ensure our own realm is secure."
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
Pethjun Ives a sound part way through a snort and a chuckle at Vanarog's claims. "Suuuure, your great magics 'probably' helped."
Pethjun is finally awed for once as she watches the queen, no monarch, for no other title could suit her fly in. Her grace, and poise, but with an underlying strength and power. This is a true true trueblood! ...I want to fight her but I know I'd lose, for now at least.
She smiles as Skyrahk seems to pick up her own nickname. the preachy one? I like, it suits her.
She takes a moment to watch in continued awe as the monarch destroys the protals and earns the cheers of her people once again. That is until Athrax mentions something. "Oh Dahak below! Who knows what state the Sewer Dragons are in! Is Chief Yiddlepode okay? We've been gone so long!"
Giving Skyrahk a side glance Pethjun forgets he worries for a second, "Wait, isn't the portal in the center of town, the one that drops you off 'where ever you left from' our way home? Though I admit some directions so we can get home faster would be good."
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
GM Hmm wrote:
“Minions,” the Queen continues, “we know you serve another monarch. But should you ever wish to travel again, know that you are welcome to my court.”
Anything else you want to do or say before you return home?
"Oh, great Queen. We do serve a monarch, but a chief of our own kind. It is not unusual, or unheard of, for a tribe like ours to seek a true trueblood to be a patron of a tribe." Her eyes drift to the floor. She can't hardly believe that she is going to ask what she's about to ask.
"Mighty Argrinyxia. You have the ability to open portals to our world. On behalf of our chief, I would be honored to request your patronage, that we might become the greatest power in the sewers of Absalom!"
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Fazgyn takes exception, as does everyone else, to Vanarogs rampant egotism Actually, I have loved your portrayal of him!!! Your RP has rocked!!, but grins slyly as the rest of the team puts him back in his place. He spends the rest of the time at the back of the group, but his jaw does drop open in awe of the great shadow dragons power and majesty in throwing the great scale so far!
The Queen returns her attentions to the True Dragons, and Fazgyn eventually steps forward with a deep bow. "You are very powerful.. I think that "Sneaky Minion" would love a chance to explore your realm.. after my territory is secure. I shall return soon!" Fazgyn says to her.
The Queen inclines her head. "If your honored Chief Yiddlepode wishes the patronage of a dragon from another plane, tell her that we would be most interested."
At Vanarog's request, she graciously allows the Sewer Dragons to tour the public places of her palace of shadow, light and marble. You get to view the eyrie from which she observes her kingdom, the receiving rooms and smaller of the banquet halls before you are escorted by her servants to the shimmering portal in the center of town.
When the you emerge from the sewer portal, a great gathering of Sewer Dragons led by chief Yiddlepode celebrates their triumphant return. A contingent of Pathfinders led by Drandle Dreng stands to the side, having just prepared to enter the breach themselves. "Oh, you closed it! Excellent, excellent! How did it go?"
The mutant otyugh Hats is also present, enthusiastically clapping his tentacles, knocking a beaten derby against a tricorne hat in the process. "Oh brave, brave hats, look at them! They have returned!" says the Prophet of Kallistrade in its high, squeaky voice. "I say," says Strident Commodore, "and just look, they have brought the 'hattiest hat' with them!"
The assembled group celebrates as the portal closes. Yiddlepode personally congratulates each of you well done, while looking especially regal in her velvet blue opera cloak. Then Drandle Dreng bows, and asks, "The Pathfinder Society thanks you as well, Sewer Dragons. From the carnage we saw when we approached..." one of the Pathfinders, covered in bandages coughs, "... and the traps that we mostly managed to avoid, you fended off the invasion admirably! May we hear a little of your exploits in the Shadow Plane?"
Just closing up here. Feel free to have your character tell a little story in your own words about one of the things that happened on your journey. Have fun, this is the close!
"I made the Sneaky Minion invisible, and she surprise stabbed a little shadow dragon, and then most of the rest of us helped attack the dragon, and I sent a magic blade to slice at it. And then Her Majesty Queen Argrinyxia came and talked to us, and acknowledged what we did, and sent us home, but said we are welcome to return!"
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
"In fact, the mighty and glorious Queen Argrinyxia has agreed to become the patron of this tribe!" Engashez beams with joy to announce this.
"The young shadow dragon was so stupid. I disguised as his servant and we just walked into his lair. Vanarog toyed with him with words, and we all--well, mostly Fagzyn--finished him with blades."
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Alarmed by the attention and the praise, Fazgyn tries to push back to the rear, but encounters solid wall.. for once there is nowhere for him to disappear to!!
He cocks his head towards Skyrahk, unsure about her kindly motivations throughout the mission. However, he decides to roll with it!
"Yes, due to the help of Skyrahk and of Dahak, I was able to draw first blood on the Shadow Dragon!!" he says proudly. We had no traps to set in the dragons home, so we made do with the best type of trap! We used misdirection and surprise to spring the most carnage as we could upon the beast!"
He finishes his exclamation with a magnanimous gesture that includes all of his fellow Sewer Dragons, inviting them to take equal praise in the execution of such a perfect trap!
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
After having returned from a successful mission for the Sewer Dragons, Athrax parties the night away with the rest of the gathered masses as any great Kobold should. Heading off to sleep the revelries away Athrax gets into his sleeping pad and closes his eyes. Where one might expect dreams filled with explosions and destruction caused by a certain Kobold with a particular proclivity for pyrotechnics, Athrax has a rather fitful sleep filled with dreams where he is in a different form. Athrax looks into a mirror within his dream and is aghast to find that the face looking back at him is not the one he is accustom too. Rather it is a face of a rather handsome human male with a shimmering Longsword strapped to his back he heads off in adventure to right wrongs bring forth good to the land of Golarion, the adventures continue through his restless sleep until he wakes up in a cold sweat.
Athrax bolstered by the dreamscape he saw feels a compulsion to do good. Gathering up his supplies and gear, 'borrowing' Vanarog's Sunshade glasses without asking, he brews as many extracts and potions of Disguise Self and hide alignment as he can find the ingredients for he sets off through the tunnels and makes his way to the top side of Absalom. Coming out of the sewers in an alley way he hides in the shadows drinking his first Disguise self extract he thinks hard about that face in his dreams taking on the appearance of that Paladin of Iomedae he is pulled to Temple of the Shining Star. Heading in to the temple he is surprised to see that he has not been halted by the many good Big feets mulling about the place.
Athrax finds himself in front of the Silver Crusade Leader, Ollysta Zadrian, Gulping hard he speaks "Ma'am I pledge my service to you and wish to hold a Charity to help spread..." Gulping hard yet again thinking of the words he is about to utter, "Spread good across the land. I offer up what gold I can in its operation."
Surprised that Ollysta Zadrian allows him to assist in running a charity he also mentions the addition of assisting a certain group of sewer dwellers that are in need of rebuilding there home and ensuring there safety to allow them to prosper and grow to better themselves to defend Absalom from the threat of shadows.
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
Pethjun waits I'm[patiently through the tour of the queen's palace, giving Vanarog dirty glares every now and then. We should be heading straight back, not touring a palace! Who knows what has happened to the Chief? Arrrghh! Vanarog!
At the portal she partically starts pulling the other dragons to the portal. Giving Y'xillix anod in return she says a brief, "Frewell! We might be back." befroe jumping through first.
On the other side she takes up a defensive position, before relaxing slightly as she realizes who is standing there. After making sure that the Cheif is actually Yiddlepode and remembers the "I-am-actually-the-chief" code, the white kobold finally relaxes fully. Happily rushing up behind the cheif she glares darkly at anyone Pethjun doesn't know personally gets with in five feet of her.
"We took care of a few weak and cowardly, wouldn't even fight us properly, men hanging around the portal, we set up traps, though those men were so pitiful that I think we could have fought them head on." Pehtjun flips her nose slightly at that, the men and women who fell for their traps obviously not worth her time. Though Rose is going to happen! Maybe her first chronicle should be our post-Outpost game?
Having her trian of thought for a second Pethjun re-focuses and continues on. "Didn't stop the portal from opening but we ambushed the people who opened it and then moved on through. Shadow Absalom was... different. People didn;t look at us funny but that's prbably becuase everyone is a bit odd... There were people drunk of light, bright light, ugh. There was a crazy elf child and a group of adventurers who, sadly, I could've took 'em, didn't try to kill us!"
She takes a second to think about what a fight it could have been. "We did meet some nice lightweavers though, and after that it's mostly like Skyrahk said. We took down a pitiful true trueblood!"
After a few minutes, Pathjun apporaches Hats and asks, "did you find the bright orange hats some of the men from the Blackros family were wearing? I meant to grab one to give you!"I could have sworn I'd picked one up, but I can't find the post for it."
Hello all, and welcome to my True Dragons game! I was asked to do this by Redelia as a GM Mentoring game. This means that I will try to give you peeks behind the scaffolding, and you guys need to ask me lots and lots of questions.
Got it?
Tell me about you and your GMing
So who are you, and what are you looking to learn in my game?
★ ---- ★ ---- ★ ---- ★
About me
Some things to know about me. I usually like games to flow with around 2-3 posts per day. I know that we have a bunch of people in this game who won't be able to post from work. If that's the case with you, if you could check in before and after work, that would be great! We'll find a pace that works for the whole group before long.
I'm also the newly minted Venture Captain of Play-by-Post, which means sometimes I get distracted by VC stuff (cranky-pants crises, PBP Gameday administration, support deadlines...) If I find myself embroiled in something I'll let you know!
I am a roleplay and story-oriented GM. I love building off what you guys give me, and I want to encourage you to have crazy interplay with each other as you go through this adventure.
★ ---- ★ ---- ★ ---- ★
Some Expectations
Tell me about your absences and crazy work days. If you're going to be off to a con for a few days, that's okay. Just let me know. I'll tell you about my crazy days too. Expect slow posting from me on Wednesdays -- those are often hard for me.
I will also be at a con November 16-20th, and unavailable most of the day of Thanksgiving and all of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
I'm hoping that botting won't be needed, but I still want everyone to have a 'bot me' spoiler in their profile with key strategies and pre-formatted dice rolls.
I'm especially hoping that we all have fun. I want enthusiasm, silliness, sound effects, team chemistry... If you want that too, I think we'll have a great game together.
Also, it's time for fabulous forms! This game will be played with the adorable 4th level Kobold pregens, but you’ll be applying it to one of your regular PFS character. I hope to have BB Code Friendly Versions of all the Pregens for you before the start of the game!
If you have an idea of WHICH pregen you’d like to play, please tell me so. Masee has told me that he really wants Varanog the Sorcerer, but the rest are open. If you have an alias that you use for pregens, it might be best to use that for this adventure.
★ --- ★ --- ★ --- ★
Player:
Character:
Pathfinder Society Number:
Level:
Faction:
Slow Track or Normal:
This Chronicle #:
Starting XP:
Initial Prestige:
Initial Fame:
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle:
Starting Gold:
Day Job Roll: Just roll a D20, as it will be the Pregen’s skill that you will be using!
Gold Spent on this Chronicle:
Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle:
Player: Redelia
Character: Zinta
Pathfinder Society Number: 184425-3
Level: 4
Faction: Scarab Sages
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
This Chronicle #: 9
Starting XP: 10
Initial Prestige: 13
Initial Fame: 15
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: 0
Starting Gold: 9188
Day Job Roll: 1d20 ⇒ 4
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: unknown. This is a GM/pregen credit blob, so if I build the character, there will be a lot purchased, otherwise, nothing. If I have not said otherwise, please assume 0.
If no one else wants it, I will play Skyrahk, the cleric.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Hrm I'll need to decide who to put this on. I didn't realize this was a GM grooming game... Vanarog eyes HMM suspiciously...
Vanarog, two of the three GMs running games as part of the mentor program held one slot for someone not part of the program they wanted to give a chance to play.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Vanarog opens his eyes wide as he is addressed by the Kobold with big ears "Very well... but Vanarog is watching... " And he pulls out a small wooden doll in his likeness, pointing it towards them and making it nod slowly.... too slowly.
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Player: Gary Pepper
Character: Lancyn Pendragon
Pathfinder Society Number: 43992-2
Level: 3
Faction: Silver Crusade
Slow Track or Normal: Normal as Normal can be
This Chronicle #: 7
Starting XP: 6
Initial Prestige: 11
Initial Fame: 12
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: 0 so far
Starting Gold: 1454
Day Job Roll: Rawr:1d20 ⇒ 8
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: 0 so far
Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle: nothing of note.
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
"I only seek to serve the shiny shiny red one"
anything I can do to help out. Which reminds me HMM check you 'Wayfinder' ;)
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Player: Zin Z'arin (Robert Riemersma)
Character: Mun of Ashava
Pathfinder Society Number: 192785-1
Level: 3 (but the chronicle can't be applied until 4, right?)
Faction: Silver Crusade
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
This Chronicle #: Starting XP: Initial Prestige: Initial Fame: Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: Starting Gold: Day Job Roll:1d20 ⇒ 16
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle:
Not sure about many of those questions, because I don't think this chronicle will be applied to the PC until he hits 4th level. If I'm wrong, let me know, and I'll update.
_______________
I am a relatively seasoned tabletop GM who has yet to GM in PbP. I'm hoping that being able to "peek behind the curtains" in this game will give me the tools to feel like I can do this successfully online. Thanks for the game and the mentorship!
_______________
Finally, I have no prior knowledge of this scenario nor its pregens, but Engashez looks interesting to me. I will play her if nobody objects.
The chronicle can be applied from levels 3-5, or to a brand new level one character, or as a “hanging chronicle” for a level 2. You can apply it right away!
★ --- ★ --- ★ --- ★
CLAIMED KOBOLDS
Vanarog the Sorcerer — Massee
Skyrahk the Cleric — Redelia
Athrax the Alchemist — Poblano
Engashez the Bard — Zin Z’arin
UNCLAIMED KOBOLDS
Fazgyn the Trapmaster
Pethjun the Muscle
★ --- ★ --- ★ --- ★
Okay, so if you’re looking to make the leap into PBP GMing, what sorts of information are you looking for that you think might help you do so? I talked about early prep in the GM mentoring lounge, but are there other specifics that you are looking for?
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Ooo yes Questions. The questions I have not answered....
Who am I? Well in a nutshell I am, so dubbed but the great red jet boot wearing HMM, GM Poblano Pepper. Not sure if I ever told you that HMM, but that's how I came up with my GM Alias from our conversations about PaizoCon on the forums.
Taking the GM mask off You see my true name is Gary Pepper, Venture Agent California - Lake County Yup a whole county and I have been using learning from the PbP community to be a better GM during Table Top sessions. This is where I answer the question
GM Hmm wrote:
"So who are you, and what are you looking to learn in my game?"
My main take away is presentation of the game. How one is best able to add to their games to further increase the enjoyment of everyone at the table and How to build on what others have posted to hopefully make a one-of-a-kind experience for all.
Thats about it but I intend to ask many questions.
So you may be wondering why I gave you all BB Code of the Pregens. I feel that part of my job as a GM is to help smooth things over for my players as much as possible. It also smooths things out for me because it makes your characters and their headers readable.
(Thanks again to Gary for helping me convert these!)
So... Here is my request for all of you, though. I want you to create ‘BOT ME’ spoilers for your characters. We’re going to be playing over the holidays. There will be times when your characters are absent. I want us to be set up so that I can bot you and you can bot each other if someone is off for a few days of holiday.
Plan for adversity, strive for success!
Hmm
PS The other thing I did was PM my missing players to get them to check in!
820-10 | "Lady Calpurnia Underhall Poshkettle of House Al-Hadir" | Female NG Gnome Studious Librarian Bard 8 | HP 72/59 | AC 18 (21), T 13, FF 16 | CMD 15 | F +5 R +9 W +7 | Init +5 | Per +20, SM +20 | Speed 20 ft | Bard Song 23/23 | Spells 1st 6/6, 2nd 5/5, 3rd 4/4 | Active Conditions: Unseen Servant, Lucky Number 5, +1 Perform Sing
Wand charges:
CLW 41/50; KP 39/50; LN 36/50; SN 47/50; ToS 50/50
“Hi, I’m Cup and I have a botting spoiler!” A little gnome bounces into the room. “Click on me to see it!”
The other thing that is useful about bot me spoilers is that you can use them to speed up making your own combat posts. On days when you may have low bandwidth as a player, that can be great.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Player: Massee
Character: Luurg Murkdweller
Pathfinder Society Number: 202046-5
Level: 4
Faction: The Exchange
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
This Chronicle #: 12
Starting XP: 11
Initial Prestige: 8
Initial Fame: 20
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: 0
Starting Gold: no clue
Day Job Roll: Just roll a D20, as it will be the Pregen’s skill that you will be using! Craft Traps:1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: None
Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle:
Luurg is finishing up a game this week which will put him at 11xp. So all these values are up in the air, especially if he hops right into a game while this is being played.
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
I'll gladly take Pethjun if I may.
Player: Sedoriku
Character: Menarul
Pathfinder Society Number: 108507-2
Level: 2
Faction: Liberty's edge
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
This Chronicle #: 5
Starting XP:4
Initial Prestige: 5
Initial Fame: 8
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: 0
Starting Gold: 777.2
Day Job Roll:A roll!:1d20 ⇒ 6
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: 0
Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle: If possible I'd like to hold this for him until he reaches level 3.
GM Hmm wrote:
Tell me about you and your GMing
So who are you, and what are you looking to learn in my game?
★ ---- ★ ---- ★ ---- ★
First, who am I. I am Sedoriku, I have a good amount of play experience, in both table top and Live-action roleplaying, and have a smattering of experience in GMing in person, and have tried to handle a game on the boards here.
That sort of leads into the next question. The game was enjoyable to run for a while, but after things in real-life got busy it became a bit more of a slog to update. So I'm really wondering what sorts of things I can do to fend that off. (A few things I have discovered: NOT running at near full bandwitdth before starting the game, prepping as much as I can before hand, and not expecting to do posts that take an hour or more to prep everyday...) In addition, I'm also interested in ways to make a game more interesting or appealing to players, and good ways to engage them/allow them to engage with each other.
GM HMM wrote:
Some Expectations
Next week I have something for work (a speech contest student I helped coach made it to nationals so I'm going to Tokyo the 22-25th. I will bring my computer and try posting, but there's no guarantee I'll have ability to post.) Other than that, Tuesdays until December and Wednesdays are a bit busy for me.
Also I be in Japan Standard Time, so posts may be at odd hours.
Luurg is finishing up a game this week which will put him at 11xp. So all these values are up in the air, especially if he hops right into a game while this is being played.
Alas, you cannot play Luurg in another game while this is going on. He’s committed here, even if there is a pregen being played. Only one game at a time for PFS characters.
You are allowed to apply GM credit to him, though.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Really? That's the first time I've heard of that for applying credit. I assumed I guess that pregen credit was the same as gm credit. If that's the case I'll have to think more of who I want to tie up for this credit. I'll let you know before we start.
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
I have the same problem. Mūn just started a scenario, so I won't be able to use him for this. In his place, we'll apply this chronicle to Robyyn, who just finished up a game. He is currently level 2; he just earned his 4th xp. Will this then be Chronicle #5, only taking effect when he becomes level 3, or does this only get applied once he reaches level 3, becoming chronicle #7?
Player: Zin Z'arin (Robert Riemersma)
Character: Robyyn
Pathfinder Society Number: 192785-5
Level: 2 currently
Faction: Scarab Sages
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
"Who Am I?"
GM DevilDoc, Awenydd83
Well.. I have been around Pathfinder for about 4 years now, and have been GM'ing for about 2 years now? Maybe 3? Most of my experience and play time is online through PbP.
I started out learning RPG's by playing Dragonlance Chronicles AD+D with my uncle and my brother in a vain attempt to keep us out of trouble and not fighting.. Didn't work on either account, but it did introduce me to what has become a life long passion.
"What do I want to learn?" ALL OF IT!!! Lol! Really though.. I try to take a little bit of everything from every game that I gm or play in.. anything from phrases and descriptions to styles and methods. I am very excited to play for GM HMM and to see what I can learn!
In my own games, I think that I could do with some help with livening up the NPC's, making things a bit more interesting.
From my feedback forms, I am occasionally reminded to watch my flow.. that I sometimes gloss over the "interlude" sections, depriving characters of RP.. or I may linger too long waiting for RP that doesn't happen.
"Expectations!"
I am a night owl. Both of my jobs are night shift, so I am almost completely nocturnal as compared to US CST. I work Fri-Sun nights in front of a computer, and although we are in the busy season for work, I still post prolifically all weekend. Mon is my transition day from one job to the next. I find it increasingly hard to post on Mondays, and even some Tuesdays. I also work during the week, but not at a computer. My weekday posts will either be early afternoon prior to going to work, or early morning (3-5 am) once I get home.. provided I don't sit in my recliner and promptly fall asleep. (I've been doing my best to get batter at this..)
Player: Awenydd
Character: GrubGlub
Pathfinder Society Number: 95823- 13
Level: 2
Faction: Liberty's Edge
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
This Chronicle #: 6
Starting XP: 5
Initial Prestige: 8
Initial Fame: 10
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: Unk
Starting Gold: 111
Day Job Roll: 1d20 ⇒ 2
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: Unk
Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle: Not at this time
GM HMM: If I am reading the above correctly, this is a 3-5, but I can apply this to a lvl 2?? Just for clarification.. its been a really long day..
I already gave the mechanical answers, but not the 'soft' answers. I'm passionate about GMing as a craft that we can improve by talking about, thinking about, and watching those who are more experienced at. In that sense, I liken it to teaching. I set up these mentoring games because I wanted a chance to observe good GMs to see what I could 'steal' to use in my own games, and thought other intermediate GMs might benefit from the same oppportunity.
Most days, I can post several times a day (U.S. Eastern time), but Thursdays are busy days, and I might only get in an evening post. I also often have family activities on weekends and post a bit less then.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
How was the Con HMM?
When we were expecting to get started? No rush, just curious for when I need to get more familiar with Vanarog's.... mannerisms...
The Con was good. I have an eight hour trip ahead of me. Redelia, can you update your character headers? There’s a preformatted version linked to earlier in this thread.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Pedal to the metal! But be careful... those signs are in KMpH not MpH!
So I am still on the road but while Bret drives, I thought I would do a quick post about starts. I got delayed more than expected by the Con, but openings are important. I wanted to make sure that I launched you on the day I said. The more you keep your word, the more you will build trust with your players.
Dungeon Master S said something brilliant about what makes a good post; he talked about brevity. He mentioned avoiding walls of text and breaking up long box text with paragraph breaks and empty lines. He talked about how pushes and hooks can get your players going and help you take attendance. See who is active and responding.
So... I'm going to talk about something else! One thing I like to do is look for places where I can break up a long mission brief or make it come alive with dialogue. You don't need to follow box text exactly. Feel free to paraphrase or spice it up with a sensory detail.
Later I'll post the original box text and let you examine both. Then we can discuss opening options some more.
You are kobolds of Absalom’s Sewer Dragon tribe. Made strong thanks to an alliance with the Pathfinder Society, your tribe has many enemies seeking to test its newfound might. Chief Yiddlepode, wise chieftain of the Sewer Dragons, knows that her alliance means nothing if the tribe can’t defend its territory. For the past several months, the tribe has sent its best and brightest on scouting missions throughout the region, repelling others from intruding on the Sewer Dragons’ rightful domain.
As the latest group assigned to protect the Sewer Dragons’ interests, you have received orders from Chief Yiddlepode to make contact with an ally of the tribe—a peculiar otyugh by the name of Hats. Constant supplies and the occasional tribute have endeared the otyugh to the Sewer Dragons, and Hats now acts as further muscle for the kobolds as well as an additional set of eyes and ears in the sewers. Hats informed one of the tribe’s gutter runners that he has an important captive for the Sewer Dragons to interrogate.
Your orders are clear: find and interrogate Hats’ captive. Discover what intrusion has taken place within the domain of the Sewer Dragons and deal with it. Above all, don’t risk the tribe’s alliance with the Pathfinder Society.
★ --- ★ --- ★ --- ★
This box text has some real advantages, as is. It is short. It tells the players briefly who they are, and it gets them going without having them spend time in a pesky mission briefing when they don’t really know who their characters are yet. Instead, like We Be Goblins, it starts by throwing you into the mission right away.
So, what is risked by messing with the box text here? What is potentially gained?
I made the box text longer when I messed with it... Does it feel that way?
There are no right or wrong answers. The changes were subtle and may make no difference in the long run. I am just curious about what you think, and want you to see that you have options in presenting, even when it comes to something as ubiquitous as scenario box text.
In some way, the as-written text feels longer to me, probably because it's jerkier in comparison, so I have to stop for a fraction of a second to reorient my brain more often.
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
I like the rewritten text. Not only is it broken up, which--as Dungeon Master S points out--makes it much easier to read, but your rewrite includes bold conversation. I think that brings us as players into it more.
Also, Redelia, I'm stealing your naming convention. Remember, imitation is the purest form of flattery. :)
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Breaking up box text is key to me the reader. Just putting in the spaces between paragraphs makes a world of difference. I'd even maybe take it a step further depending on if you already know your audience: maybe throw in some bold or italics or capitalize some key points so they stand out. Especially if its a game without a strong hook or the direction you need to push the PCs in isn't super obvious. Or of course if your players are young or inexperienced.
Games bog down and players don't post when they aren't sure what they should be doing. Once things bog down people lose interest and things slide from fun downstream white water ride to upstream paddle.
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Vanarog 'He with Arms of Gecko' wrote:
Games bog down and players don't post when they aren't sure what they should be doing.
This right here.
I know I've done this as a player. When I get to the end of a GM post and I don't see any hint of an objective, or paths to an objective, I just ghost. I move on to the next game and hope that someone else posts something I can latch onto. If everyone reacts the same way that I do, then suddenly the game has stalled, because we didn't know what we should be doing.
Booker Karr Male versatile human Gunslinger 3 | HP 38/38 | AC 20 | F: +8, R: +10, W: +7, (reroll failed saves vs. Control effects one round later) | Perc. +7 E | 25 feet | 1 hero point | Exploration activity: Scout | Active Conditions: none
I like the modified intro text quite a bit more. It flows a bit better, but even more so it gives us a good sense of the setting and a good glimpse of who the group is working for. Despite the slight addition in length the flow is much better and it personally conveys the information we need to know better and in a more memorable fashion.
The note about brevity is definitely one I need to learn.
If everyone doesn't mind, we could give examples of similar things we've done in the past, to let others take a look at and critique. If this is too much or doesn't seem all that useful then feel free to let me know and then ignore it.
The one time I've done a PBP intro post, it ended up being a quite a bit longer than the original. Though in retrospect where I started going too far with embellishments came later on...
For comparisons sake:
The doors to the office slide open with a soft pneumatic hiss.
Inside is a well-lit and blue-carpeted office. Venture-Captain Arvin, a handsome and determined-looking damaya lashunta, sits behind a desk, his eyes riveted on a glassy display. After a heartbeat, he glances towards the open door and motions everyone to enter.
“Apologies, please come in. Be seated if you like, although this shouldn’t take long.” Arvin taps a button on a console and murmurs to a digital assistant, “Croyd, put everything on hold for a few minutes. If anyone calls, please explain I’m in mission briefing and I’ll get right back to them.” He then darkens the display to give his full attention.
“Right. I have an assignment for you. This one is a little a different than others you might have received.” He pauses before he explains, “It’s an internal matter."
“You’re probably aware that after the Scoured Stars incident many of our colleagues elected to leave the Society. That is unfortunate, but not surprising. We hate to lose good field agents, but no one is conscripted into our ranks. Normally we wish them well and that’s that. In this case, the defector, former field agent Reynald Talbot, stole an artifact from the Lorespire Complex before departing. Theft is where the Society draws the line; I need you to get that artifact back."
“Unfortunately, Talbot left weeks ago and we only discovered the theft in the last 24 hours. We launched an immediate investigation to determine the identity of the thief and their last known whereabouts. It’s our bad luck that Talbot was smart enough to get off the station and head to Akiton, where there’s no central government or law enforcement to easily call upon. I need you to track him down and recover the artifact. We know Talbot caught a shuttle to the Akitonian city of Maro, so that’s a great place to start. The Society will, of course, cover your travel expenses."
I tried to smooth over a couple of odd sentences, give Arvin a bit more character and provide a couple of pictures. I probably shouldn't have tried to keep as much of the original text as I did, I probably could have said some of it more readily without it.
Engashez by Zin wrote:
Vanarog 'He with Arms of Gecko' wrote:
Games bog down and players don't post when they aren't sure what they should be doing.
This right here.
I know I've done this as a player. When I get to the end of a GM post and I don't see any hint of an objective, or paths to an objective, I just ghost. I move on to the next game and hope that someone else posts something I can latch onto. If everyone reacts the same way that I do, then suddenly the game has stalled, because we didn't know what we should be doing.
Oh, yes this! It is one of the hardest things I encounter as a player. It often makes me want to stop and think about what to do next and then I get distracted with some thing else. I'm in two games right now that have both had this problem and they have both moved very slowly at times. In a face to face game it's be less problematic (we'd probably ask questions or the GM would see we don't have a clue on what to do next) but in a PBP it's much harder to get a quick answer or for the GM to gauge the player's understanding.
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
In F2F games as a GM I am able to put some inflection in my words to help trigger the players to think about the next step or what objectives need to be completed.
In PbP that has been a little difficult as I am unsure how best to accomplish this, seeing the above posts makes me feel better. I did try that with SFS 1-00 previously along with making slight changes to the red Text box Spoiler Below
Poblano's SFS 1-00 Game Start:
GM Poblano Pepper wrote:
Blushing at the sudden appearance and questioning of the Vicarious Lashunta, Garren stumbles through saying "Well... umm... yes... you see she has a very nice establishment though I recommend it is not for the feint of heart. If you must visit she about 5 door down the corridor on the left. But something tells me that you lot are headed over to the Lorespire Complex to go talk with ol' Luwazi Elsebo urseves."
"She doesn't like tardiness," He chuckles "She can be fickle. O Altronus, here is that to-go-cup for later. Just don't flaunt it in front of the patrols." he winks.
Your group realizes the time and heads across the quad to The Spire where a computerized voice at the entrance says *Bzzz* "Identity verified.. Obozaya, Altronus, Quig, Raia, Navaso and Ispeh..... Entrance granted." the entry way door wooshes open aloowing your party entrance. *Bzzz* "Drone 'Scout' Recognized... Power down weapon load out upon entry or holding measures will be activated" *Bzz*
When you enter you see most of the complex appears to be deserted except for some younger faces rushing by babbling about being late for class or certain professor being to strict.
You make your way up the spire with basic directions provided on the Holo-Invite to a lavish meeting room with several plush couches and a grand central table with the Starfinder Emblem emblazoned across its surface.
Scrolling across the vid-screen on the wall is a message from Luwazi Elsebo stating she will be be in shortly.
--------
After a few minutes a short hiss precedes the opening of an adjacent door. A woman with a determined look steps through the opening, holding a datapad in one hand as she sits down at the nearby table, takes a calm breath, and begins to speak, “Ah good, you made it. All of you come highly recommended. You have skills, and the Starfinder Society has credits.”
She pauses, looks over the group she has assembled, and continues, “How rude of me—introductions. I am Luwazi Elsebo,
the elected First Seeker of the Starfinder Society, and I have an exceptionally fair sum of credits available in return for your specialized services. For this mission, each of you will represent the Starfinder Society, but hold no official title within our organization. As you can probably tell by the empty halls around us, I need to use mercenaries to act as temporary agents. If you agree to the terms, I would like to offer you all a job."
“The Starfinder Society endured a staggering setback several months ago when our previous First Seeker led a mission into a region of space known as the Scoured Stars. We lost almost all our experienced field agents and assets in that endeavor. What the Starfinder Society really needs right now is something to entice outside interest and investment. In short, we need to make a major discovery."
“Prior to the Scoured Stars incident, the Society acquired exclusive rights to explore a rather unique moon. The inhabitants of the nearby planet call it Salvation’s End and see it as a ‘false moon’ due to its visible metal components and underlying superstructure. There’s the potential that it’s nothing more than a mangled hunk of stellar debris on the remains of a moon, but there’s also the chance that the entire object could be one inconceivably large structure.” Luwazi lets loose a devilish smile. “This is where you come in. I want you to go to Salvation’s End and explore the surface. First, you’ll need to make a quick trip to the moon of Varos, which orbits the nearby gas giant, Bretheda. There’s a highlevel security complex on Varos that has a survivor from a rogue prospecting mission to Salvation’s End. I want you to question the prisoner, find out what you can about the so-called ‘false moon,’ and then make way to Salvation’s End. Once there, you will need to see if the moon is worthless, or something valuable enough for the Society to announce."
"Understood?”
You can ask questions of Luwazi Elsebo at this point before you set off for Varos
-=-=-=-=-=-=-
The only risk I see from changing the text boxs is possible misunderstanding of the players to what you have written. Though the gain, in my opinion, is worth the risk. The gain to me is a more memorable and fun experience with less chance of burnout/stalling occurring.
The changes you made HMM seem more pleasurable to the readers eye and I didn't even notice it was longer.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
Sorry to interrupt the discussion, but I found a game for my beloved Luurg so I've swapped my character to receive this chronicle. See below!
Player: Massee
Character: Mort Gloomhollow
Pathfinder Society Number: 202046-9
Level: 2
Faction: Sovereign Court
Slow Track or Normal: Normal
This Chronicle #: 6
Starting XP: 5
Initial Prestige: 3
Initial Fame: 7
Prestige Spent on this Chronicle: 0
Starting Gold: 736.5g
Day Job Roll: Just roll a D20, as it will be the Pregen’s skill that you will be using! Got a 16 when I rolled it earlier for Luurg.
Gold Spent on this Chronicle: 0
Anything else you want me to note on your Chronicle: Don't think so?
Hey Gang, I underestimated how much scutwork would be waiting for me when I returned from the Con. I will try to update you a couple times tomorrow, despite the proximity to the holiday. Sorry I could not get to it today.
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
Whoops mind removing GM Poblano Pepper from the chacters?
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
In my introductions and mission set up, I try to draw the players in with conversation where I can. For instance.. if it was a RP heavy scenario vs smash and grab, and I have played with or GMd for a character that I know uses his mace more than words, I will have the GM specifically point out to the character "Look, no smashing.. try talking first!". Generally this gets a good laugh, gives a good hook to get people engaged (both the PC and the others at the table), and helps to personalize everything.
I also try to break things up. One of the worst things for me as a player is to open the game up and see an entire wall of text that I have to slog through.. and most of the time, the only thing that is important may be a few sentences.
To break everything up, I use conversation text, proper paragraphs, and I insert thoughts, expression, and reactions while trying to pare down the canned text to what is needed or changing the wording to make it more clear for the players.
”Engashez” | Female LE Small Kobold Bard (dragon yapper) 4 | HP 27/29 | AC 18, T 12, FF 17 | CMD 13 | F +3 R +6 W +5; +4 vs. bardic performance, language-dependent, and sonic | Init +1 | Perc +2, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bardic Performance 12/13 | Spells 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
Hi! Thanksgiving and its weekend have me busier than I expected. I will return to all of my games Sunday PM or Monday. Please bot me if needed!
Hmm, could you please explain your thinking behind favoriting posts in gameplay? Are they just things that tickle your fancy, or is it a marker to yourself of what you've caught up with in some sense?
”Athrax” | Male LE Small Kobold alchemist (alchemical trapper) 4 | HP 25/29 | AC 15, T 14, FF 12 | CMD 14 | F +6 R +8 W +2; +2 vs. paralysis, poison, and sleep | Init +3 | Perc +9, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Bombs 8/9 | Extracts 1st 3/4 2nd 2/2 | Mutagen 1/1 Active Conditions: Light sensitivity, Bomber's Eye.
I never thought of using the favorite feature like that.
Hmm, could you please explain your thinking behind favoriting posts in gameplay? Are they just things that tickle your fancy, or is it a marker to yourself of what you've caught up with in some sense?
I favorite liberally.
If someone amuses me in anyway at all, I favorite them. Though on RPGgeek, I learned that it was the tradition for everyone to favorite everyone else’s posts as they read them, in order to show that the post had been read.
I guess here it’s just that I am having a good time and I want you to have a good time too.
”Fazgyn”| Male LE Small Kobold Unchained Rogue 4 | HP 29/29 | AC 20, T 15, FF 16 (+2 vs trap) | CMD 15 | F +2 (+1 vs trap) R +8 (+2 vs trap) W +1 (+1 vs trap) | Init +5 | Perc +9 (+1 vs being surprised), Darkvision, Trapfinding | Speed 30ft | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity.
That's mainly what I use the function for. Another purpose is if the post has some pertinent information I want to come back to later, I can favorite it.
Now.. you build up a heck of a lot of "favorited posts" like this, and it can be hard to sort out what you meant to come back for later and you getting a laugh from a funny post. In this case, I use the "List" function that is offered over each post. I have several private lists on my account sorted and organized by topic. Say I am researching something for my Rise of the Runelords game and I come across a really interesting thread or some community generated links, etc that I think I may use. I can click on "List", sort it into my ROTRL file on my account, and know right where it is when I go back to look for it.
Yes, I use the List function too in that way. Favoriting is my way of saying that I am really happy to read wat you have to say... But if I want to find it again (especially for PFS rulings) I use the list function for that.
”Varanog” | Male LE Small Kobold Sorcerer 4 | HP 26/26 | AC (20)16, T 15, FF 12 | CMD 12| F +2 R +4 W +5 | Init +3 | Perc +3, Darkvision | Speed 30ft | Spells 1st 4/7 2nd 3/4 Reach 2/3 | Trap Rune 5/6 | Active Conditions: Light sensitivity
I use the favorite function for both things you mentioned Redelia. First and foremost I use it in appreciation for what I think was a nice post, either well thought out, funny, or a great in character statement. On occasion I use it to let someone know I read something that was directed at me.
On the grander scheme I think they help other players know their work and putting time and effort into playing their character vs just tossing some dice is appreciated by the other players in the game. Or at least that's how I view them.
