JD's Giantslayer AP!

Game Master Jack Daniels

Roaring with the pain of the gashes on his face, Barundar refuses to let up, pouring his anger into his attacks as he moves to flank with Falric.

Dorn Dergar Attack+Flank: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 7 + 2 = 17
Dorn Dergar Damage: 1d10 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9

Eli fires her crossbow at the undead.

Ranged attack 1d20 + 3 - 4 ⇒ (7) + 3 - 4 = 6
Damage 1d8 ⇒ 1

is the skelly considered a "giant" subtype for purposes of my and Barundar's racial +4 AC? If so, my AC this turn 21, 19 after charge.

The rat dispatched, Morti rushes to join the fray, charging the giant skeleton.

great axe attack, charge, power attack: 1d20 + 6 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (16) + 6 + 2 - 1 = 23
damage: 1d12 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

Unfortunately, no, once it is undead, the giant disappears and the undead subtype dominates. It makes no sense but those are the rules.

AoO on the charging Morti: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (9) + 13 = 22...hit
Damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9

Falric's blade bouces off the giant's bone shin, while Elisen's bolt flies harmlessly through an opening in its ribcage. Barundar inflicts a powerful blow on the giant skeleton thanks to the flank and Morti catches a claw across his back for his efforts, but his greataxe does damage as well. Total damage: 35

Round 2:Skeleton attacks
Hampered by Ugun's butterflies, which interfere with its vision, the skeleton tries to put down the warrior with the blunt weapon! His second claw viciously gashes the dwarf's stomach and he is standing only through force of will....
Attack: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (3) + 13 = 16 or
1d20 + 13 ⇒ (11) + 13 = 24...the 16 misses Barundar!
Attack: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (8) + 13 = 21 or
1d20 + 13 ⇒ (6) + 13 = 19...hit
Damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13
Morti: 17/26 hps
Barundar: 1/33 hps
Falric: Full

Ugun and party are up!

Updated Map

EDIT: Giant had to roll twice for Morti on the AoO as well: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (6) + 13 = 19
Same, so damage stands.

Falric tries to help poor Barundar out and uses his Battle Dance as a move action!
Attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 9 + 2 + 2 = 23
Damage: 1d4 + 7 + 2 + 1d6 ⇒ (3) + 7 + 2 + (1) = 13
2 rounds of battle dance left today!

Falric's blow crushes the giant's shin and giant skeleton tries to balance itself on one leg but fails, before its battered exoskeleton collapses to the ground and shatters upon impact.

Let's stay in round time. Rest of party is still up. What are your actions?

With the giant skeleton destroyed, Ugun rushes towards the injured dwarves, healing wand in hand.

He applied the magical wand to Barundar who was about to keel over while he warned, "Please someone watch my back this time!"

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CLW wand on Barundar: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

Eli holds her position, waiting to see if anything else happens n

Barundar, barely holding on to consciousness even with the help of Ugun's wand, finds the strength to swing at the giant skeleton again!

Dorn Dergar Attack+Flank: 1d20 + 7 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 7 + 2 = 19
Dorn Dergar Damage: 1d10 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17

D'oh! I missed the thing collapsing. Well...I'll let the attack stand. Barundar would be paranoid about the thing anyway and wanted to get another good lick in, just in case.

Morti retrieves a potion and downs it clw: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2, feeling the healing energy course through him while he glances around the cave. "not a fan o' giant tombs so far - full o' unpleasant thin's, aren't they? How d'ye think the others got past this 'un, then?"

He scans the passage ahead, looking for signs that their quarry did, in fact, pass this way.

survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

Morti quickly scans the surroundings and can find no other tracks other than the party's in this area or beyond, which is beyond odd, unless... Before he can voice his suspicions, the screams of Elisen suddenly rip through the cavern, as she is engulfed in fire briefly, as she feels her back on fire!

Materializing 20' behind her from invisibility and now in sight of the party is a 13' tall green half-orc with a painted face, with sharp fangs and clawed bestial hands, with a number of alchemical flasks tied around his waist. "You all still alive?! I cannot believe my wolves did not kill you that day in the town. I guess now that you have the cleared the way to the Tomb....impressive by the way in destroying that skeleton....and you are all weak and wounded, it will be easy work for me to finish you off and rip off your limbs one at a time! Well, me and Leila!" The half-orc smiles, as his large form steps on the corpse of the dire rat.

Initiative:
Half-orc: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 1 = 14
Barundar: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
Elisen: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Falric: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22
Morti: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Ugun: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13

Falric is up!

HPs:
Barundar: 7/33
Morti: 19/26
Elisen: 14/23
Falric and Ugun are full

Combat Map

"So you're the bastard who's responsible for this orc raid and the attack on our lives?! All those people who lost their lives?! He's mine!" With anger on his face, Falric sprints across the cavern, scimitar in hand, as he aims at the bastard's shin!

Charge: 1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 9 + 2 = 16
Damage: 1d4 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
AC: 23

I'm confused. The person speaking is the '13' tall green half-orc', right? Who is Leila?

AoO on Falric: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13...miss!

The halfling recklessly charges across the battlefield and slides under the feral alchemist's claw and cuts him across his leg, causing the bestial alchemist to wince in pain. "I am Skreed and I will kill you all!" The half-orc tries to claw and chew on the halfling, but the little bastard is too elusive and all his attacks miss!

Full attack on Falric!
Claw: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13
Claw: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19
Bite: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

Looking worried, Skreed yells out, "Leila get up here and help me already!" In response to this scream, a clawed green hand reaches over the top of the stone and pulling itself up, you see a 10' tall female flood troll, soaking wet. She looks in anger at you and yells, "You all killed my brother....now you will die!"

Updated Combat Map

I think that should solve your confusion, Ugun! ;) Party is up!

I think that should solve your confusion, Ugun! ;) Party is up!

Yes it does. Not in a good way though. :)

Ugun was caught in the middle, literally. He didn't know which enemy was stronger but seeing that the elusive Falric was already engaging one, he decided to engage the other one.

He started cackling like a madman as he sent forth his large, black butterflies towards the troll. "Go! Go and peck at his eyeballs and keep him occupied."

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cackle as move action and misfortune on troll as standard action, will save DC 15 or have t roll 2 20s and take lower

Elisen moves to the other side of the (picture of the x'd out skeleton, in a flank with Barundar on the current map) and casts Color Spray at Lelia.

DC 14 Will to resist.

"Droskar took me eyes," Morti grumbles, cursing himself for missing the ambush as he tracked their quarry to this point.

Trusting Falric to hold off the orc at least for the moment, Morti moves to attack the troll and keep it from tearing into Elisen or the still-wounded Barundar, hoping that Elisen and Ugun's spells can keep the troll's claws off him.

greataxe power attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17
damage: 1d12 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 7 + 1 = 19

Are trolls giant-type? I think I remember yes, so AC 21, but take off the trait +1 to my damage if I'm wrong.

"Bloody hell, we cannae catch a break!" the dwarf laments. Realizing the situation he is in, he takes a quick step away from the flood troll and towards Skreed, though he stays out of range of his claws for the moment, staying just outside his reach and downing a potion.

Move action to go straight down from current position four squares; that should still have me out of Skreed's reach. If it doesn't, stop sooner, then move action to drink a CLW.

Potion of CLW: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

Flood troll Will saves:
1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19
1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21
Whoa! She is really pissed off!
And yes, trolls are giants.

The flood troll shrugs off the party's spells, as her anger helps her overcome the magic. She cannot, however, overcome the inquisitor's skill with his greataxe, as the blow nearly kills her! She screams in pain and is bleeding severely.

Barundar is up!

I posted about 3 minutes before you did, GM.

-Posted with Wayfinder

Falric swings fighting defensively:
Attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (3) + 9 + 2 - 4 = 10..miss
AC: 31

Thanks, Barundar. I am getting messages now re: new posts again.

The bloodied troll responds to Morti's blow with a vicious claw, that leaves both combatants probably one hit away from dying!
Attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26...threat
Confirmation: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24...confirmed
2nd attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13...no
Damage: 2d6 + 4 ⇒ (4, 6) + 4 = 14
Morti hps: 5/26

Meanwhile, the feral alchemist and Falric continue to trade blows. The savagery of the half-orc is truly a wonder and yet for all his considerable strength, it is not enough to penetrate the defenses of the hafling, who deflects and dodges every blow imaginable, frustrating Skreed to no end! He screams, "Stand still, ya damn jackrabbit! Not possible that I can't end you!"
Claw: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29...miss
Claw: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11...miss
Bite: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (16) + 10 = 26...miss

Party is up!

Eli casts Acid splash at the troll.

RTA 1d20 - 4 + 3 ⇒ (3) - 4 + 3 = 2
Damage 1d3 ⇒ 1

"Jackrabbit? Really?! Let me show what I can do, Skreed!"
Battle dance as a move action: +2 hit/+2 damage
Attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 9 + 2 - 4 = 27...threat
Confirm: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 9 + 2 - 4 = 27
Damage: 2d4 + 18 ⇒ (2, 3) + 18 = 23
1 round of battle dance left today

Seeing the halfling hold his own, Ugun once more tried his cursed magic on the troll.

He spoke soothingly to the monster, "Slow down... You feel like you need a rest... Perhaps a little nap..."

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cast slumber hex on troll, will save DC 15 or fall asleep...

The feral alchemist sees the halfling delay and start dancing and thinks this his chance to end the little runt, so he opens his porcine jaws wide enough to rip off his little arm and lunges down to bite him, only to halfway realize it was a trap by the hafling's gleaming smile! Skreed tries to reverse his action, but his momentum is too strong going forward and down and he follows through with his attack, only to catch air, as Falric skillfully pirouettes at the last possible moment. With his head exposed within the halfling's reach, the last thing Skreed feels on this plane is the halfling's scimitar forcefully enter his ear and puncture his brain,, ending his life! The feral half-orc's grunts and roars stop, as his body collapses to the ground.

And I thought I was rolling well recently! 2 20s in a row...1 in 400 shot.

Meanwhile, the life and death battle between Morti and the troll continues, as both combatants prepare their final swings. Morti hefts the greataxe back and strikes with all of his force, while the troll rears back as well, severely concerned as out of the corner of her eye, she sees her friend's corpse now lying next to a dancing halfling! As Leila plans how to retreat and jump back to the healing restorative powers of the pool, black butterflies invade her space and she starts becoming drowsy...the last thing she sees as her eyes close, is Morti's greataxe cleaving her head off!

Will save: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (10) + 1 = 11
I thought that battle might prove to be too much but you guys proved me wrong! Congratz!!!!

Gritting his teeth against the pain, Morti winds up for a mighty swing, doing his best to fell the troll before his own demise. "This ends, fiend! No more wi' ye plague these folk!" he snarls.

greataxe power attack: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18
damage: 1d12 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 1 = 14

edit - oh, hey! a welcome ninja by Ugun's post and the GM! I'll just go ahead and roll the extra damage for personal satisfcation:

coup de grace damage: 2d12 + 14 + 2 ⇒ (6, 8) + 14 + 2 = 30

Perfect..the game mechanics followed the script! Nicely done!

Ugun felt elated that both foes had fallen. But his beaming attitude was quickly replaced by the memory of that thing choking his life out.

"Well done friends but let's be careful here..."

He looked around to check for hidden dangers...

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perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20

Dusting yourselves off and sure there are no more threats, you move to the last chamber to the east. Ledges and stairs are carved into the stone walls of this wide-open, high-ceilinged natural cavern. Embedded in a fifteen-foot-tall spire of centuries-old bones stands the skeleton of a massive armored warrior. Though its flesh has long since rotted off its frame, the skeleton still stands proud and regal amid the trappings of battle and mounds of gleaming treasure. The skeleton’s battered half-plate and scarred helmet hint at its many battles, and the warlord’s hands are clenched around a massive stone hammer. Beneath the helmet, a thick, round rock has been embedded in one of the skeleton’s otherwise empty eye sockets.

When you detect magic and investigate the area, you discover the following treasure:
The armor on the corpse is magical and on it, the hill giant's name is inscribed: Uskroth!
***Uskroth's armor: +1 half plate resizes to wearer's size, once per day gives wearer Righteous Might for 5 rounds and DR 5/evil
****The hammer is magical and its name is Agrimmosh - simple stone blacksmith’s hammer which resizes to wielder's size and is engraved with Minderhal’s holy symbol. It functions as a +2 impact hammer and once per day as a full-round action, the wielder of Agrimmosh can use the hammer to cast heightened enlarge person (Fortitude D C 23 negates). This effect lasts for 20 minutes. Whenever the wielder of Agrimmosh confirms a critical hit against a creature of the humanoid type, the target creature must succeed at a DC 23 Fortitude save or shrink by one size category, as by heightened reduce person.

The chests, vases, and other containers piled around Uskroth’s funerary spire are overflowing with coins, gemstones, jewelry, and other fineries worth a total of 1,300 gp. In addition, scattered among the treasure are several items valuable in their own right, including a masterwork breastplate, a suit of masterwork splint mail, four +1 human-bane arrows, 13 adamantine crossbow bolts, a masterwork orc double axe, a heavyload belt, a scroll of phantasmal killer, a scroll of tongues, and a wand of inflict moderate wounds with 7 charges remaining.

The rock lodged in Uskroth’s eye socket is no simple stone. Removing the fist-sized hunk of dark, igneous rock and examining its other side reveals it to be a magnificent geode whose rich violet and verdant emerald crystals form glittering crystalline patterns.
Appropriate Skill checks: Appraisal, Dungeoneering, Geography, and Local for more information on the stone.

Treasure on the alchemist:
MW Cold iron falchion
Potion of cure moderate wounds
2 vials of acid
2 alchemist's fire
MW studded leather armor
Belt of Strength +2
MW thieves' tools
Gems worth 6000 gp
Letter written in Giant: Link
Knowledge (local) or (nobility gets you information about Grendelsek

Barundar takes a moment after the fight simply to breath, grimacing as he tries to wipe some of the blood and grime off of himself. "By Torag's beard, I wasnae shoore we ware gonna make i' through tha' fight." he remarks, looking around at the others.

"Mebbe Trunau'll be sefe, a' least for a whule." he says, looking around at the treasure haul the group has now relieved the previous owner of.

Skill checks for stone:

Appraise 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26
Know. Geography 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
Know. Local 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20
Know. Dungeoneering 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22

Elisen cocks an eye as she looks closely at the strange stone. "There's more treasure in this place than I've ever seen at one time. All the magical auras are making my head hurt!"

Knowledge Local check for Grendelsek 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17

She pulls the letter and reads it over carefully, trying to place the strange name on it. "Well, the hammer and the rock clearly mean something to this Grendelsek, that's for sure."

Ugun could no longer contain his happiness, "I think this is something important that we found. And no one in Truneau knew about it."

He looked at the dwarves, "Well, what are you waiting for? One of you try out the armor for size and swing that hammer for balance!"

tag?

-------
Ugun then grabbed the letter of the dead alchemist and read it out loud. see handout

He then asked, "The rock? I guess they mean what was in the skeleton's eye."

He turned to Elisen, "What did you find out about it?"

tag?

----
I'd like some of the alchemist fire and acid vials... Maybe one of the scrolls. I don't think there's anything else useful to Ugun in the treasure pile.

"Aye, tell me about it," Morti commiserates with Barundar, tenderly rubbing his side where the troll nearly staved in his ribs. "Makes ye 'preciate th' ol' tales a bit more, havin' been beaten on a bit oneself."

Joining the others in looking over the tomb's contents -

clearly need to invest in some more knowledges
appraise - stone: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21
know(dungeon) - stone: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

"Anyone heard aught o' this 'giantkiller's tomb' 'e mentions? One o' ours mebbe, Bar?"
know(history): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13

At Ugun's urging, Morti eyes Uskroth's hammer. "Minderhal? 'e's one o' their evil ones, inn't 'e? I'd 'ave t' think on it, but Angradd wouldn't likely mind usin' their weapon fer good instead o' ill. An' my family's always wanted t' see a hammer in me 'and."

The hammer is a warhammer, right? Just checking whether I'm proficient. And looks like impact means it's bumped up a die from 1d8 to 2d6? I'd be happy to take it, and expect not to get any cash share for a while.
I'm also interested in the MW breastplate; I'll give Barundar dibs on the belt, and think he's the only one who can use the half-plate.

Knowledge Local on the rock: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11
Knowledge Local on the letter: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14
Other than MW thieves' tools, no other treasure interests Falric except for the gold of course.

"Seems like we have to end Grendelsek or he may just send another raid once he learns Skreed is dead. The town is still in danger."

Here is the information you learn:
***The geode is a spectacular pleochroic variety of tourmaline, the nearest known deposits of which lie in the Mindspin Mountains to the south and west.
***On the surface of the geode, you manage to decipher crystalline valleys and mounds that reflect the exact topography of the Mindspin Mountains, and a carved groove along the mountains seems to indicate a trail through the mountain range. However, the geode is missing the other side (perhaps a second rock?) in order to fully form the map.
***The Twisted Nail orcs inhabit a ruined border fort called Redlake Fort. Once part of Harchist’s Blockade, Redlake Fort stands near the River Esk, north of Trunau.
***Grenseldek is the hill giant leader of the Twisted Nail orc tribe.
You do not know to whom the "giantkiller" refers.

This ends Book I and welcome to 4th level! Of course, there is more to rp with the townfolk once you leave Uskroth's tomb.

Woot!

Barundar blinks at all the gear, surveying it once more now that he's had a chance to rest a few moments and catch his breath.

"Aye, tha belt would nae be turned away fer sure, nay wood tha armor. Bloody hell, if'n thare's un thing I'm convinced of noo it's tha I need better armor than I got. Yer welcome to tha hammer, far as I'm worried. I'll be stickin' to tha weapon me Pappy gave tae me." he remarks, patting his dorn dergar with affection.

With the weapons and treasures in tow, after a long night, the party exits the Tomb of Uskroth. They are greeted by the muted cheers of the Chief Defender Halgra and her bloodied troops. Trunanu has survived the siege, though many were killed or wounded. She is surprised to hear there was a hill giant tomb located in Trunau all these years. She sends him some of the militia to secure the rest of the cavern and collect whatever else is of value, and advises you that the treasures will be yours to keep. Smoke fills the skies over Trunau, as the scenes of battle and fires can be easily seen throughout the town. Seeing the severe wounds most of you bear, she thanks you and tells you to go rest. The rebuilding process will begin in the morning. When you reach the inn, you sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow, you bodies bruised and battered and exhausted.

Over the next few days, the spirit of the town is once again revealed. Despite the funeral plans for their fallen, Trunauans are nothing if not resilient, however, and the efforts to rebuild the town begin the day after the raid. Kurst and Jagrin Grath and the rest of Trunau’s militia are glad to receive closure over the death of Rodrik and thank you personally, as does Brinya. Although Trunau has weathered many orc raids in the past, the Twisted Nails’ attack was by far the most devastating in recent history, and left the inner quarter largely in ruins. Skreed’s half-orc saboteurs dealt a terrible blow to the town’s morale that will likely heighten tensions between Trunau’s human and half-orc residents for some time. Trunau’s leaders order Uskroth’s tomb sealed once more, and the ruins of the Plague House are consecrated and ritually cleansed with fire to put the structure to rest once and for all.

In all, the party is awarded an additional 4000 gp in treasures from the giant armors and weapons found in the tomb, which will be melted for armaments for the militia. Please spend your gold/sell treasures/etc. before we continue with Book II.

nice wrap up

Ugun's services as a healer were well utilized in the days after the attack. But after a full day of being with the sick and injured, he yearned to be outside with those rebuilding the fortifications of the town.

He still helped those in need but his days were spent in the reconstruction effort. Although not the strongest worker, he made up with ingenuity and more than enough determination. No longer concerned about falling, he worked on the highest scaffolds with gusto.

His work also helped to smooth out any lingering rough patches between the relations of human and half-orcs. In the end, those born here and those who chose to live here, had one thing in common, they all wanted to make this town thrive.

Over the next few days, Falric spends his time inspiring the troops with the rebuilding process and helping his aunt run the inn. By the end of the week, he is reminded that the town is not safe and that Grenseldek can send a new raiding war party to Trunau at any time. We have to take the war to them! He spends time perfecting his alchemy and making his mutagen last longer.

Morti also applies himself to the repair of the town -- Might 'as well git SOME use o' these stoneworkin' skills, a'ter all! -- in between drilling to get a feel for Agrimmosh and pestering Elison and Ugun to teach him to speak Giant.

Over a few tankards at the inn, he nods at Falric's concerns. "Aye, an' with us carryin' the stone 'e's after, we oughta leastwise get it an' us outta Trunau for a mite. 'ese folk deserve some peace 'n' quiet."

Eli spends some quality time with the artifact the group had discovered. After all his time, her quest hadn't been in vain. She tried to find all of the special abilities that it held, writing in her journal to preserve all of her observations for future generations.

Barundar ends up spending most of his time with Morti helping the town rebuild after the ferocious assault of the orcs and their giant master, not to mention pestering the giant-speakers among them to be taught the language.

Over their tankards with the others, Barundar echoes Morti's sentiment that they need to get out of the town...and maybe they should pay Grenseldek a visit themselves!

After a week of rest and attending funerals, the party receives an invitation from a familiar figure, Chief Defender Halgra of the Blackened Blades, asking you to join her in the meeting room at the Ivory Hall, Trunau’s government seat. You acquiesce and appear for the meeting. When you are seated with drinks, Halgra begins, "The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the intelligence you gathered. Although it was fortuitous that you were in town when the attack occurred and that you helped prevent Skreed from obtaining the items he was order to retrieve from the hill giant's tomb, our Council of Defenders is concerned there may be another attack on the town ordered by Grenseldek, the hill giant chieftain." Halgra pauses as she paces in front of you. "To that end, I respectfully request that you go to Grenseldek’s lair - an abandoned outpost near the River Esk called Redlake Fort— and deal with the giant chieftain and her orc tribe before they can attack Trunau again." Halgra stares at each of you in turn. "I know I ask much of you, but due to your most recent heroism during the orc raid and in Uskroth’s tomb, I believe you are best suited to this task, as Trunau’s militia and citizenry are needed to rebuild the town’s defenses after the orc attack. I fear we would not survive another one in our wounded condition. We lost 60 members of the militia in the raid. What say you all?" She pauses as if waiting for an answer and then continues, "We are wounded right now but I have been authorized to offer your band a reward of 1,500 gp to put an end to Grenseldek’s aggression." Halgra sits, waiting for your response.

Falric drinks from this glass and slams it down on the table. "Of course, I'm in! I was coming to suggest the same course of action. It is the wisest course considering the danger the town is in."

On a high from the group's discovery, Elisen was too upbeat to consider negotiations. Perhaps there were more discoveries to be made nearby. If this one was just waiting under her nose, there was no telling where the next one might be hiding.

Ugun was humbled that they had been summoned and even more so when the request was made. Heroes?

He simply nodded, not knowing what he was really getting into. But he could do no less for the town that took him in and made him feel like he belonged somewhere. There would be time enough later to figure out how to go about invading a fort.

"Of course, we will go. Anything to keep Truneau safe."

Welcome to those selected! Let's have fun and enjoy the PbP experience. Please finish your characters and feel free to ask any questions.

Hey JD, thanks for selection bro! I have to fix Falrick, as I realized he was built only on a 20-pt buy instead of 25. I might change some skill points too to fit in with group. Hope to have fun gaming with all of you!

Thanks for the selection, DM. I'll be scarce tomorrow as I've got to travel for work, but I'll be here ready on Saturday morning!

Very excited to give this a go!!

Checking in, and thanks for the selection!

I'll finish picking spells and gear; was there anything in my background you saw as needing work?

Falrick is all fixed. Low Fort save but he has Adaptable Luck to help him with that. I could not pass up on the 20 Dex score! Morti, I think you did not spend full 25 points on attributes (only spent 22 points I think). I made same mistake. :)

Morti's melee to hit numbers look off to me as well. I think he's +3 to hit with dagger and axe unless I'm missing something.

Thanks for the catch -- some stat second-guessing that I didn't finish mathing before submittal.

Thanks very much for the selection! Lookin' forward to gaming with all of you!

Just waiting for our cleric to make an appearance. In the meantime, please formalize your applications as Morti and Falric have, with the basic stats and AC and saves and initiative and perception available at first glance, as that is a time saver for me.

Also, do you want to know each other before the game starts? You don't have to be best friends; just might have seen each other passing by in town. The two dwarves have the giantslayer scion trait, so you might be cousins or related somehow, if you wish. Elisen and Falric hail from Varisia, so you two might know each other. Up to you guys.

How long have you been in Trunau? Do you live there? If so, with whom? Alone? Think about these questions and post answers. I will be reviewing your profiles to make sure they conform with point buy, etc.

Barundar, the dwarven chain flail is 2-handed...wondering what the 2-weapon fighting feat is for?

Morti, what was your favored class bonus?

Barundar, the dwarven chain flail is 2-handed...wondering what the 2-weapon fighting feat is for?

Actually, I'm glad you caught that...I had initially picked TWF because it's a required feat for Dorn Dergar Master, a feat which I no longer intend to pursue, and I assumed it was required for Darting Viper, which it is not.

That's going to give me a couple of changes to the build...namely, drop the Dex to 14 and get rid of that negative Cha modifier, then exchange TWF for Power Attack.

Everything else should be good to go.

Barundar, what was your FC bonus on, assuming Fighter is your FC?

FC bonus for this level was +1 skill point. A rank each in Intimidate, Know (Dungeoneering, Engineering, History), and Survival.

FC bonus to the dwarf-specific option, "Add +½ to the inquisitor’s level for the purpose of determining the effects of one type of judgment." (Justice judgment.) Now recorded under Class features on my sheet.

Looks like Barundar and Morti are both from Janderhoff, so some connection for sure, and we'd at least recognize each others' faces -- our great-grandparents stood together to turn back the giants at the Battle of Bloodspire Pass (or some such).

Morti's been in Trunau about 3 months now, sleeping on a pallet at the Sanctuary and paying his keep with maintenance and odd jobs.

Hello all, sorry for the late appearance. I am excited to get to play with all of you.

Will try to get Cabe in order tonight. He has lived in Trunau, either alone or more likely lodging with some of the other apprentices of the smithy, since he came there as a thirteen-year old orphan looking for a spot as an apprentice.

FC bonus to the dwarf-specific option, "Add +½ to the inquisitor’s level for the purpose of determining the effects of one type of judgment." (Justice judgment.) Now recorded under Class features on my sheet.

Looks like Barundar and Morti are both from Janderhoff, so some connection for sure, and we'd at least recognize each others' faces -- our great-grandparents stood together to turn back the giants at the Battle of Bloodspire Pass (or some such).

Morti's been in Trunau about 3 months now, sleeping on a pallet at the Sanctuary and paying his keep with maintenance and odd jobs.

Sounds like a good plan to me! I'm all for having a connection there. It'd be fun to have two dwarves whose ancestors fought against giants in one setting getting together to crack their skulls now.

Falric has been in town for about 3 months and if allowed, he lives with his auntie, Cham, at the Ramblehouse. He is fine with knowing Elisen; perhaps they met on a caravan headed to Trunau and she was struck by how charming the halfling was! ;)

Ok, thank you for your answers. Living with Cham is fine, Falric, as is the Sanctuary, Morti.

I'm going to say that Barundar is a more recent arrival than Morti.

Matter of fact, I have a proposal for Morti: Would you be ok with Morti and Barundar being at least acquaintances with each other? My thought is that Morti, having been in Trunau for a little while, knows about Barundar's growing frustration with the what he perceives as a lack of real interest in Dwarven history, and as a resident of Trunau, would probably know that their resident wizard is related to Barundar and gave him the tip that he might find the answers that he is looking for in Agrit.

Good by me.

GM, should we plan to work out details in in-character gameplay, or do you have other plans for jumping off? I'm completely unfamiliar with how this AP opens.

Elisen is fine with knowing Falric. Cham tried to set her up on at least one miserable date, and the two of them struck up a friendship. I'd imagine Falric and Elisen rode into town together and they've gotten to know each other through meetings at the inn.

Still missing traits and equipment from Cabe and spells memorized for the day, if different from those in profile. Everyone else seems pretty much done.

Morti, the AP opens out at a Hopeknife ceremony in the center of town. You can start by knowing Barundar, who has just arrived in Trunau 2 days ago and is staying at the Ramblehouse. He has yet to schedule a meeting with Agrit.

Falric and Elisen have been away for a week on an expedition to visit a possible site of magical activity in the nearby mountains. Unfortunately, Elisen detected no magic or presence of artifacts and you both return to Trunau just in time to arrive for the Hopeknife ceremony, a momentous occasion for the town.

Cabe, you just want to be at the ceremony because you know Sara will be in attendance.

Cabe is done. Had put traits in the wrong place. Equipment s done now too. Spells prepared are the ones in profile.

The Gameplay thread is up! Link

Bear with me: the first part of the AP is a bit railroadish with the party participating in the contest and the subsequent investigation. I will try to make it flow as natural as possible.

Barundar and Cabe, please try to stick to the once a day minimum post (at least on the weekdays). Otherwise game slows down. Thanks.

Prob won't manage any real post today, sorry; crazy workday, big event.

Thx for update.

Cabe and Barundar, please amend your profiles to reflect your combat stats, initiative, saves, Perception, etc. as the other 3 players have done. Thank you. It makes my job much easier.

Done! Sorry. Thought I'd already done it.

@GM -- I'm realizing my domain ability will probably be annoying to administer, because you won't want to pause before rolling initiative to ask me about it.

Domain (Tactics): Seize the Initiative -- Whenever you and your allies roll for initiative, you can grant one ally within 30 feet the ability to roll twice and take either result. This decision is made before results are revealed. You can use this ability a number of times per day equal to 3 + your Wisdom modifier.

Do you want to just assume I apply this to Barundar whenever you roll for init? (presumably less than 6 times a day!) Or should I pick a different Domain ability?

Hmmm...it is difficult to administer it. You can change it if you want it. I could roll a d4 to see to whom it applies or you can pick one character, like Barundar. I am open if you want to keep it or change it.

If it's all right, I'd like to switch to the Tactics Inquisition -- somewhat similar ally-booster 1st level ability, but administered per-round, as my turn, rather than during initiative:

Inquisitor’s Direction (Su): At the start of your turn, you can choose to enter a tranquil, reflective state and forgo all actions (standard, move, swift, immediate, and free actions, including attacks of opportunity) for that round; one ally of your choice within 30 feet gains the benefit of haste for 1 round. You can use this ability a number of times per day equal to your 3 + Wisdom bonus (minimum 1).

(If so, I'd make the change after this current combat, so as not to introduce things halfway through.)

I like it; that works!

Just to make sure the record is straight, Barundar isn't using an axe; he is using a dorn dergar, which is the dwarven equivalent of a ball and chain.

Picture

Potion of cure light wounds (x4) - each should get one except Cabe
Antitoxin (x4) - each should get one except one of the dwarves (they have natural resistance)
Smokestick (x4) - everyone gets one except Falric
Leather armor (x4) = 20 gp
Light crossbow (x4) = 70 gp
Thieves' tools (x4) - Falric will take one set, will be multi-classing next level = 45 gp
Beryl gem worth 54 gp (x4) = 216 gp
70.2 gp each

From the assassin's story, it sounds like they were recruited in Freedom Town just this afternoon, after we were attacked by the wolves.

Previously it was noted that Freedom Town is ~150 miles away -- GM, is this a significant discrepancy, or am I thinking too hard about it?

Morti, it is good deductive thinking on your part. :)

Heck, I went ahead and leveled right now. Arcanist 2 is pretty much a dead level.

HP 4 + 2 Con + 1 FC = 7, unless you want us to roll.
+1 BAB
+1 Will
2 new spells: Magic missile and enlarge person
1 add'l 1st level casting per day
1 add'l cantrip memorized per day (Read Magic)
6 skills: K. Arc., K. Planes, K. Religion, Spellcraft, Appriase, UMD

I have leveled as well, multi-classing into Alchemist (Vivisectionist and Beastmorph), as I am going for the roguish feel (Disable Device and Sneak attack) and it makes sense with story line as we track an alchemist. Hopefully, Elly can hook me up with some mage armor as that will help with AC. Otherwise will invest in potions once we have more gold.

ding! - 2nd level inquisitor. Sorry, been a crazy day.

Note Wis-to-Initiative means +4 init.

Also +1 BAB, Fort/Will up.

New spells 0 - Daze, 1 - Exp Retreat.

At will detect good / evil / chaos / law (as standard action)

Also made change to domain/inquisition discussed above.

Cabe is done.

+1 BAB, +1 Fort/Will

New spells: 0: Mending 1: Obscuring Mist

Favored class bonus to hp so +8 hp.

Added ranks to Knowledge (religion), Sense Motive, Craft (blacksmithing) and Knowledge (engineering)

Sorry here as well!

Level: Fighter 2

HP: +9

FC Bonus: +1 HP

Skills: +1 Intimidate, +1 Survival, +1 Know(Engineering, History)

Class Ability: Bonus Feat (Weapon Focus)

Question for you, DM: In future level-ups, would you allow me to put ranks into Lore (Trolls) as a background skill and sub that for Know(Nature) in checks dealing specifically with trolls? I know that Know(Nature) normally handles that, but that also handles all kinds of nature-related facts and I can't see Barundar studying weather cycles, etc. just to learn more about trolls in particular.

Knowledge (specific type of giant) may be more useful in this campaign, B. But if you're set on it, troll is fine.

Gaah, giants is actually what I was thinking of when I made that post. But that'd be ok with you? To do Lore (Stone Giants) or something like that and let that sub for a Knowledge check of that particular kind of giant?

Also, geez you guys are night owls! Hah. The last two or three days I've went to bed at 10:00 for work and then I get up in the morning to find ten or twelve new gameplay posts.

Treasure to date:
Gem-studded coffer (worth ?)
Rodrik's hopeknife
An oil radiates magic
Potion of shield of faith +2
Scroll of Knock(x2)
Scroll of Summon Swarm
2 vials of holy water
Potion of Darkvision
Scroll of Ghostbane Dirge
Scroll of Barkskin (+2)
MW hand crossbow
10 bolts
10 silver bolts
10 cold iron bolts
Ornate hopeknife (worth 100 gp)
Heart-shaped gold locket (worth 45 gp)
63 sp

For now, Falric would like the vials of holy water since he has a high dexterity and he gets additional +1 to attack with them. Cabe or Elly should take the potion of DV and Barundar should take the shield of faith potion since Morti can already cast the spell. Morti is the only one proficient with the hand crossbow so that is there for him if he wishes. Elly gets all the scrolls.

Let Cabe have the Darkvision potion. I've written down all the scrolls on my sheet. If someone wants one, let me know and I'll mark it off.

I've got long days on the road for work the rest of this week. Hopefully will have changes to post, but don't wait around for me; GM, post as needed to keep things moving.