Kekkle tosses a flask of holy water at the fiend. It flinches in bodily pain, even letting out comprehensible speech in Common: "GRAH! You miserable maggot of a-" Damage:2d4 ⇒ (3, 1) = 4
The fiend retreats to the right, away from much of the party's line of sight. The party can hear glass clinking.
(Check your actions, some may have been made difficult by fiend's action.)
Male Sivis Gnome Wizard 3| HP: 26/26 | AC 11 | Passive Perception: 11 | Spells: 1st 4/4…2nd 2/2
Tannan will grab a dagger and ready to slice anything that gets near him, but also retreats so the more melee inclined members can get through to better assist the party.
CV39 is where I went, if I didn't go to column CV at least, I wouldnt have enough range. Anyway, going back to CW 36
With the only target in range disappearing from sight and the trap between them and her, Elyna decides to duck out of line of sight of the spellcaster.
Ready action to blast any enemy coming into range and line of sight. I doubt it'll happen, but I might as well, since I have the action left
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
With the fiend moving to cover, I'm guessing that Araden would want to hold onto his dagger and bardiche- he'll move to CV 37, assuming that Tannan will take the other position. This way he's out of the mage's line of fire.
Elyna ducks out the line of fire. (I'm so sorry for all the screw-ups concerning your movement, I'll try to pay more attention to the coordinates from now on. In my defense, if I recall correctly, there was once someone on the way when you would have moved to a particular square. Maybe?)
Tannan makes room for his companions to fight.
Araden keeps his dagger, as the fiend is now out of the reach, and moves out the line of fire.
Ulrich fires one more arrow at the mage before moving out of the line of fire. The arrow flies past the mage.
Pahleg raises his arm and conjures and fires a bolt of lightning at the mage. The bolt hits and leaves a wound.
The mage centers his focus after the sparkling wound, and taunts: "Is that it? Here, let me show you how a true- !" Ranged touch:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4
Another flaring beam of fire flies to Pahleg's direction, but hits the wall.
"...Uh."
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
In his position out of the line of fire, Ulrich will drink the last swig of his estus flask.
CLW: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
Ulrich shrugs.
"Seems like we either wait for one of them to cross the trap or we see if that mage has a fireball up his sleeve- or something else that can get us all back here."
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
Araden shifts into the corner and puts his dagger back into its scabbard. "I don't suppose we'd think it wise to chance the trap? I'm much better in close combat than standing afar."
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
"Hmmm. I can throw this broken pick axe at the trap- mayhaps that will trigger it and then we can proceed to the fatal shores of battle."
Ulrich tosses his busted pickaxe at the spot where Tannan indicated there was a trap.
Throw: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 2 = 15
The party takes a moment to prepare and strategize.
Ulrich reaches to the bag, takes out his busted pickaxe, and tosses it at the trap's direction. It flies between the two dragon statues and lands a few feet between them.
...Nothing happens. Wherever the trap is, the pickaxe did not trigger it.
Pahleg stays boldly in the line of fire and continues throwing thundering javelins. This one missed.
The mage responds to the shooting, firing another bolt of searing flame at Pahleg.
Ranged touch:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14 Fire damage:4d6 + 4 ⇒ (3, 5, 2, 5) + 4 = 19
The scorching beam hits Pahleg, causing severe burns.
Round 3
(Kekkle delays.)
The fiend, much like the majority of the combatants, does not seem willing to step between the supernatural artillery fight between thunder and fire.
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
Pahleg reels back on pain and scowls. "Than your life is ours!" He uses both hands, lightning clashing together between them as he summons a sparkling orb of thunder and lightning on the mage. Then he takes cover behind a wall, knowing his magic does not need line of sight to be effective once cast.
Electricty Damage:3d6 ⇒ (1, 5, 4) = 10
DC 15 reflex negates. Breaking line of sight to him so he can't shoot at me again.
Kekkle quickly swears and grips his phantasm weapon tightly. He quickly casts a protective ward on himself and rushes into the trapped area with his eyes shut tightly in anticipation.
Seeing Pahleg defiantly standing and loosing lightning toward the mage and Kekkle stepping into the trap Elyna comes back out of cover and throws a bolt of flame at the fiend as it enters her view.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
My flask is spent.
Ulrich holds his position, waiting to see what happens when Kekkle crosses the trap.
Delay until Kekkle hits the trap.
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
"Friend Pahleg, here! Some healing for you." Araden reaches into a pouch and draws out a flask, and hands (or tosses) it to the cleric. Just a lesser estus flask, but better than nothing.
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
"Hold your healing friends, I have enough of my own!"
A healer is needed in every party, but if your healing/round is less than your enemies damage/round, healing is just not efficient. Either we try to kill him and hope the dice fall in our favor, or we retreat to heal and try again another day.
Kekkle casts a protective shield on himself and rushes into the trapped area. Upon going between the two statues, one of the dragons' eyes flash bright red, and a blast of fire is released from its maw.
Fire damage:5d4 ⇒ (2, 4, 1, 4, 4) = 15(Ref DC 11 halves.)
The glow in the trapped dragon statue's eyes fades quickly.
The fiend seizes the opportunity to claw at Kekkle.
Aoo from reach:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (11) + 7 = 18
Elyna comes back out out of cover and throws a bolt of flame at the fiend. The blast hits, and once again the fiend seems to resist fire to some amount.
Araden hands Pahleg a flask of estus.
(Ulrich, your action can retroactively go here.)
Pahleg summons a sparkling orb of thunder and lightning on the mage, and then moves to cover. Ref:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19
The mage does not seem to mind the thundercloud, yet he looks disappointed. "Hey, devil? I'm getting tired. See you guys later! I'll fry them at the exit!" he shouts with slight panic in his voice, and starts running away.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
With the mage fleeing, I don't think I can get a shot off at him since I was delayed, not readied. So I'll follow Kekkle out and try to keep the devil off guard. With my held action, I'll double move to CO36,taking the long way around the fiend's claws.
Round 5
Staying as safe as possible behind his shield, Ulrich jabs at the fiend with his blade.
"So this is the Liar's gang, eh? Can't say I'm impressed by your choice of allies, 'Amon'."
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
With the mage fleeing Pahleg sighs. With preparation this would have been a more even fight. He gestures sharply to redirect the thundercloud to the fiend, then channels to heal the wounded of the party.
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
Seeing that Kekkle crossed the trap without too much danger, Araden does the same, rushing through alongside Ulrich. (Move to CR 38) He comes up behind the scarecrow and brings his bardiche down on the fiend.
Attack:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7 Damage:1d10 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9 Well I'm glad that the RNG liked that plan, at least. Good news is that since Pahleg's after me, that 13 should heal from any damage the trap may deal.
Kekkle reacts quickly and rolls through the fire blast, only to find the waiting arms of the fiend on the other side. Pahleg's healing keeps him in the fight despite the blow.
Male Sivis Gnome Wizard 3| HP: 26/26 | AC 11 | Passive Perception: 11 | Spells: 1st 4/4…2nd 2/2
Tannan, against better judgement, decides to join the group in their pursuit of the wizard and the fiend. He rolls through the space of the statues, expecting to get blasted.
moves to CQ-39
red save with evasion if needed:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Ulrich rushes forward towards the fiend. When he reaches the point where the trap would trigger, no fire comes forth for some reason.
Putting aside the strange inactivity of the trap, Ulrich moves around the fiend doing his best avoiding its claws. However, there is no way to avoid fiend's elongated arms, and they reach him anyway.
AoO:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12
Round 5
Kekkle fights the fiend, landing a blow with his shortsword.
Elyna continues blasting the fiend, this time with few results.
Tannan rolls through the space of the statues, causing the statue's trap to trigger once more. With its stone eyes glowing red, the statue's maw spews fire.
Fire damage:5d4 ⇒ (2, 2, 2, 4, 4) = 14(halved)
The glow in the trapped dragon statue's eyes fades quickly.
Araden rushes through alongside his companions. Where the trap would normally trigger, nothing happens. Ignoring this bizarre fact, he attempts to strike the fiend.
Ulrich jabs the fiend in the back, hitting a weak spot. (Correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't crits rolled twice, rather than rolled twice and then doubling the result?) Crit damage:1d8 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5(In any case:)
The fiend collapses to its wounds, and in a few second vanishes completely.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
I think it's however you want to handle crits; I give my players the option since they need all the help they can get.
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
"Perhaps friend Pahleg should take the new estus," Araden says. He rolls a shoulder, where he'd pulled something in that last swing, but it doesn't feel bad. "Best we not lose our healer in a fight, yes? And he has it to medicate those of us who might fall elsewise."
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
Pahleg wrote:
"Well done. Here Ulrich, your wounds are not healed yet."
[dice=CMW]2d8+4
Sacrificing 2nd level spell.
"Thank you. This breathing corpse will continue to march until it all finally fades."
"I have a flask of my own, so perhaps I shouldn't have a say in the matter- but mayhap Kekkle or Elyna would be best served, in case Pahleg should find himself in dire straits."
Kekkle notices a crumpled piece of paper on one of the dragon statue's feet. When straightened, it turns out to have writing on it.
Quote:
Loyal private,
You know I have always valued your sacrifices in the past, even if we disagreed on their necessity. Now I regret to inform you that they have been largely in vain, as I originally suspected and feared. The general is rotten, and lost his sight beyond salvation.
Our dream of Hellfire, the Labyrinth purged, is over.
I have renounced my position as a lieutenant. I hadn't the courage to speak with Warcus, fearing he would expose my betrayal, and thus he stays with the general.
Do whatever you want. Please apologize to corporal Matt (and the new recruit, whose name escapes me. Quanter?) on my behalf. If you wish to find me, and I succeed in leaving the Throne: the miasma, where I found you.
Ysmus
The word "Confidential" is written on the blank side of the letter.
Tannan spots an abnormality in the right-side wall in the corner. The brickwork seems identical to its surroundings, but on a close look one can see tiny gaps between the bricks, allowing one to move a portion of the brick wall and enter through. It seems like a case of a hidden passageway. A well-hidden one, at that.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
Ulrich grips the letter in his gauntlet sheathed fingers, reading with a deepening scowl.
"We shall have to present this at the Throne so this insurrection can be dealt with. Perhaps this Warcus would be the best person to seek out... we seem to have reached something of an impasse. That dragon remains where last we found it and I do not put much faith in our ability as a group to sneak past it..."
"Perhaps this Cathedral has some association with Hellfire, given the dragon in my vision. But it would take a wiser man than I to parse out all the history of this place. 'the miasma, where I found you' Perhaps some other, deeper hazard of the Labyrinth."
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
Once Tannan fills us in on the secret door, I'd say we should move in to check it out.
Ulrich will lead the way into the passage, assuming no one else wants to take point.
Perception: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (10) - 2 = 8
If there is a trap in here, Ulrich likely steps on it.
Elyna and Pahleg cross the fire trap, but no fire comes from the dragon's maw.
Ulrich moves the portion of the secret door, opening the hidden passageway. Immediately he sees an unwanted person in front of him: the Prince, without a crown, standing at a table. With him is the Liar, in full suit of armor. Judging from their reaction they seem just as surprised as the party.
"You look awful surprised to be expecting anyone. What's the matter? No time to get all gussied up when you had guests coming over?" says Kekkle as he moves into the room. His hands charge with magical energy as he grips his ethereal weapon in tandem with its material counterpart.
Standard to cast chill touch with my cross-discipline bonus. Move to CQ 32 and drawing my shortsword again along the way. How long has it been since the last fight, is my shield spell still active?
Male Sivis Gnome Wizard 3| HP: 26/26 | AC 11 | Passive Perception: 11 | Spells: 1st 4/4…2nd 2/2
Move to CO-32
Tannan, sees that there is a foe still very shocked at the fact they have company. Tannan moves forward, dagger in hand and then throws is at the "prince", hoping to strike a vital spot.
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
Araden wastes no time in this encounter with the man called the Liar; he simply moves forward and swings his long axe at the enemy. Move to CQ 30 and attack. Using a Spirit Surge on the attack roll, so now my Influence is finally below penalty range.
Is there gonna be a poll if we are gonna jump systems?
No, a poll would likely just bring out the worst traits of democracy, as it makes the minority unhappy. We're not switching systems if it would drive anyone away from the campaign. Respectively if we noticed that we'd enjoy the game more if it was played in some other system, well, we'd probably want to jump to that system.
Mostly I had 5E and Dungeon World in mind when I asked. In retrospect DW may not be the best choice here, but it could work.
Araden the Wanderer wrote:
For Example:
Hm, interesting. I've been consciously avoiding Exalted because the premise of superhuman godlings never appealed to me, but when you put it like that it sounds more promising. How far are you in the process of designing your campaign?
Ulrich of Ravensmount wrote:
My group switched to 5th edition last year, though. It's faster and easier to run, spellcasters can mostly cast spells instead of falling back on the crossbow and combats go much more quickly.
So I've heard. Do you think LS would do better in 5E?
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
Pathfinder is my favorite d&d style game, although in the past few years they've been coming out with some broken comment that reminds me of how 3.5 went down the s&$@ter.
I've played one game of 5E and what I know so far is that it's simpler but also gives less options for character versatility.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
GM MG wrote:
Kekkle Smoughbon wrote:
Is there gonna be a poll if we are gonna jump systems?
No, a poll would likely just bring out the worst traits of democracy, as it makes the minority unhappy. We're not switching systems if it would drive anyone away from the campaign. Respectively if we noticed that we'd enjoy the game more if it was played in some other system, well, we'd probably want to jump to that system.
Mostly I had 5E and Dungeon World in mind when I asked. In retrospect DW may not be the best choice here, but it could work.
Araden the Wanderer wrote:
For Example:
Hm, interesting. I've been consciously avoiding Exalted because the premise of superhuman godlings never appealed to me, but when you put it like that it sounds more promising. How far are you in the process of designing your campaign?
Ulrich of Ravensmount wrote:
My group switched to 5th edition last year, though. It's faster and easier to run, spellcasters can mostly cast spells instead of falling back on the crossbow and combats go much more quickly.
So I've heard. Do you think LS would do better in 5E?
I think it certainly could. 5E already doesn't rely on magical gear to the point where magic items are practically optional, monsters tend to have lower ACs and higher HP totals which might work better for a Souls inspired game and there are optional madness rules in the DMG that might help simulate going Hollow (or Hungry, as it were). Covenants could even be reconfigured to work like Backgrounds or alternate background features.
So how about we immigrate to 5E, and allow Homebrew classes and specialties and whatnot to make up for the lack of character customization options?
I want to stress that if this would discourage any player from participating, then we're not going to do it. Anyone can even PM me if they want to raise their objections/fears/dislikes anonymously.
(We can work out the specifics after we get the green light. I like James's idea of using Covenants as Background-like stuff.)
I'll do more research, but I haven't found anything explicitly labeled "Magus 5e". There's a few approximations (for example, the eldritch fighter) but because they're homebrew quality varies wildly. Also, the paizo magus abilities aren't as impressive in 5e because the systems are a little different (no spell-failure, for example).
Also what level are we starting at? Same we're at now?
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
There may be something in the sword coast adventurer's guide supplement. I'll look into it the next time I'm home.
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
I'll put forward that the Bladesinger Arcane Tradition for Wizards is very close to the magus of Pathfinder. Since Proficiency Bonuses are the same for every class, you're fully capable of fighting on par with someone else in terms of attack rolls. You've got spells and swords from the start (technically level 2, but we're there already) and you're good at both; it's one of the only ways a wizard gets proficiency in any sort of armor (for free!), you get Extra Attack to keep up with the martials, and with the cantrips designed for it, you can essentially spellstrike every turn (they let you make a melee weapon attack as part of the spell). The Bladesong ability itself isn't directly related, but it's a neat addition. And obviously our GM can rule that you don't have to be an elf to be a Bladesinger.
I don't know a lot of 5E homebrew, but I don't know of any way to easily replicate the Medium class--that said, I don't really desire to do so, and I'm happy to change how Araden works in terms of features and just keep the themes. The first thought is to build him as a Revenant from the Gothic Heroes UA, but I'm not sure that's even necessary for this game. Beyond that I'd probably build him as a Fighter since that's always what I planned to do with him.
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
As a heads up to everybody in all of my games, I will be having a drastic schedule change for the summer.
I am no longer working a normal 9-5 job (don't worry I didn't get fired, it was an internship position that ended), and instead will be only working on the weekends. I will not be able to post at all most weekends, expect maybe some quick posts late at night. During the week I should be able to post very often, perhaps not quite as much later in the day.
Also I will be spending quite a bit of the upcoming summer doing some world traveling, which will mean frequent vacations where I will most likely not be posting. I will let everybody know when I will be gone. Speaking of which, I will be gone this Monday through Wednesday. I can possibly sneak some quick posting in at night, but I wouldn't count on much.
However as a general note, my posting amount should generally increase since I will have a lot of free time during the week.
Thank you everybody for your understanding, and happy gaming!
I was working on an Alchemist Homebrew in the vein of FMA, but I wasn't sure how things were going so I haven't looked at in a while (I also didn't know if we were comfortable with that.)
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
Also still around. Haven't been playing a ton of Dark Souls 3 lately, and I don't own a PS4 so no Bloodborne, but still very much up for this game. I have started playing Darkest Dungeon again, and it's got a similar tone in some ways (although very different in others).
...Okay, now that I've put my other campaign out of its misery...
I'll be honest: there has been zero advancements in development (on my part) of Labyrinth Souls Season Two. What's more, summer is upon us, and that equals a busier time in my life. My GMing capabilities are at their heights during fall and winter, generally.
I can try, and I probably will. Stay tune, if you want.
A semi-unrelated note: I hope that E3 on the next week has something from FromSoftware. I'd be down to Bloodborne 2.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
I play pretty slowly so I finally just finished the DSIII base game, all bosses and secret areas. Now I'm about halfway through Ashes of Ariandel before starting up the Ringed City.
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
I definitely recommend Bloodborne. It's a much faster-paced and aggressive version of Dark Souls (I know, it makes Dark Souls seem not that aggressive by comparison). Once I went back to Dark Souls I just kept thinking "Wow, heavy armor and shields are so nice".
Male Aasimar Cleric 4 | AC 15, Touch 10, FF 15 | HP 35/35 | F +7, R +2, W +8 | Init +0 | Perc +5
I will be mostly unavailable this entire week. I am volunteering as a camp counselor and the only free time we get is a little bit in the late evening before we go to sleep. I may be able to slip in some small posts during that time, but I wouldn't count on much. Apologies for the short notice, and please DMPC me as needed.
Here is an example of a 5e-style background (spoilered for length):
Sorcerer:
A loner who left formal academia to pursue further research. Commands soul sorceries using high intelligence.
You were identified as a potential sorcerer at a very young age. You joined an academy to unlock the secrets of the soul arts, dividing your time between a mentor and your classes in your search for knowledge. Your studies isolated you and you saw little of the outside world, much less your biological family. However, for reasons known only to you, you left the academy. What did you study at the academy and where were you enrolled? Who taught you, and how do you feel about them? Are you still in contact with your mentor or fellow students? Did you graduate? Where you expelled? Are you still enrolled and simply pursuing another experiment in the field?
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana and either History or Investigation
Tool Proficiencies: Alchemist’s Supplies
Language: One of your choice, including Exotic languages.
Equipment: A bottle of black ink, a quill, 3 rolls of blank parchment, Alchemist’s Supplies, a Book (about Arcana), a ring with the sigil of your school, a set of apprentice robes, and a belt pouch containing 10 gp
Feature: The Sorcerer’s Mark
You were formally enrolled in a sorcerous academy, and that alone can open doors for you. You can usually gain audience with another magic user by presenting proof of your tutelage. Furthermore, you can usually arrange lodging among other scholars or sorcerers, unless you show yourself to be a danger to them. You may also have access to resources from your school, such as a library or laboratory, or a mentor who can offer advice occasionally.
Suggested Characteristics
A sorcerer is largely defined by their apprenticeship and field of study. They have spent most of their lives surrounded by soul arts and in the company of other sorcerers. Sorcery is a cornerstone in this person's life, whether it is a means to an end or simply an end in and of itself.
d8 Personality Trait
1) I tend to talk about sorcery as if everyone understands it, and I cannot comprehend the ignorance of those who cannot.
2) I consider my mentor to have been a font of wisdom, and have a quote from him for every occasion.
3) The academy taught me the value of secrets, I keep them very well and have a few of my own.
4) I have a grand soul theory that I cannot wait to tell everyone about.
5) I am seldom seen without my nose stuck in a book or a scroll.
6) When exposed to a new piece of magic, I can’t help but try to figure out what it does and how it works.
7) I am extremely proud of the school I attend, and I will boast about it often.
8) I have no patience for ridiculous superstitions about sorcery.
d6 Ideal
1) Magic for Magic’s Sake: I seek to study and refine sorcery, simply for the betterment of sorcery (Neutral)
2) Greater Good: Soul arts should be used to protect and improve the lives of the common people (Good)
3) Power: through my power I will conquer and gain victory (Evil)
4) Tradition: I will uphold the standards of sorcery taught to me by my teachers (Lawful)
5) Independence: I have cast off my shackles and will seek my own path (Chaotic)
6) Spirit: I will make my mentor proud (Any)
d6 Bond
1) I often think of the family I left behind to become a sorcerer, I would like to see them again one day.
2) I had a romantic relationship with a fellow student, I still love them.
3) I am utterly loyal to my mentor, everything else comes second.
4) I am hunting the one who is responsible for the end of my apprenticeship.
5) I had a rival throughout my training, we still compete.
6) I idolize a historic sorcerer, and I measure my accomplishments against theirs.
d6 Flaw
1) People who are superstitious of sorcery are idiots and are not worth my time.
2) I look down on anyone who is not properly trained in the magic they wield.
3) If my mentor calls me, I’ll abandon whatever I am doing to go to them.
4) I can get so distracted by the mystery and wonders of sorcery that I lose sight of my goals.
5) A scandal prevents me from returning to my place of education, and I’m trying to stay ahead of rumors.
6) I believe the world would be better off if sorcerers ran everything.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
Great work on the background, Kekkle!
It probably won't make much difference, but I'm going to be out of town from tomorrow (6/13) until 6/20. I should be able to check in, but don't let me hold anything up.
Hm? Preferring what? Between the PF-trait-likes, or 5e backgrounds?
By the way, we don't need to be all too faithful to the original series. If you ask me you could even come up with a "class" of your own for the purpose of these.
Male Human Medium (Reincarnated) | HP 35/35 | AC 20, touch 11, FF 19 | Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +5 | Init +1, Perception +6 | Lamb, Order of the Sheep
Haven't played it, but I know a lot about it and I don't mind any potential spoilers. (I've basically resigned myself to not getting to play it, since it's exclusive, so I've looked a lot up.)
Also, I realized I never actually posted anything here about the work I was doing with my own setting. I'll try and drop some stuff on that in here at some point when I get the chance--I've been busier than expected lately, and of course there's been the trouble with the site as well.
Incoming background. I intend to post these one by one until I finish all the classes, but if you prefer I compile them in a doc or something I can do that.
Mercenary:
A mercenary and veteran of the battlefield. High dexterity allows masterful wielding of dual scimitars.
As a sellsword who fought battles for coin, you're well acquainted with risking life and limb for a chance at a share of treasure. Now, you look forward to fighting foes and reaping even greater rewards as an adventurer. Your experience makes you familiar with the ins and outs of mercenary life, and you likely have harrowing stories of events on the battlefield. You might have served with a large outfit such as the Drang Knights or the soldiers of Forossa, or a smaller band of sellswords, maybe even more than one. Now you're looking for something else, perhaps greater reward for the risks you take, or the freedom to choose your own activities. For whatever reason, you're leaving behind the life of a soldier for hire, but your skills are undeniably suited for battle, so now you fight on in a different way.
Skill Proficiencies: Athletics, Persuasion
Tool Proficiencies: One type of gaming set, vehicles (land)
Equipment: A uniform of your company (traveler’s clothes in quality), an insignia of your rank, a gaming set of your choice, and a pouch containing a remainder of your last wages (10 gp).
Feature: Mercenary Life
You know the mercenary life as only someone who has experienced it can. You are able to identify mercenary companies by their emblems, and you know a little about any such company, including the names and reputations of its commanders and leaders, and who has hired them recently. You can find the taverns and feast halls where mercenaries abide in any area, as long as you speak the language. You can find mercenary work between adventures sufficient to maintain a comfortable lifestyle.
Suggested Characteristics
You are a mercenary who hunted down your employer's enemies for coin. Were you happy in this life? What made you leave it behind to become an adventurer? Did you leave it at all, or is adventuring just another way of putting food on the table?
d8 Personality Trait
1) I like to show off, particularly if there’s a chance to get a job offer out of it.
2) I am always gregarious and cheerful, no matter the situation, as long as I am paid well.
3) To me, the thrill of a fight is just as pleasing as any amount of gold.
4) I’m always training to survive the next battlefield.
5) I hold myself to a strict code of ideals.
6) I keep my personal possessions in secret places which are known only to me.
7) I prize my weapons beyond all things and treat them like close companions
8) I won’t lift a finger until I hear the jingling sound of coins
D6 Ideal
1) Golden Soul: I fight for money, and nothing else (Neutral)
2) Legend Rising: I will be known for my deeds, sooner rather than later (Any)
3) Life or Death: In my line of work, the strong live and the weak starve (Evil)
4) Without Remorse: I never break my promises. Never. (Lawful)
5) War and Crime: Whenever chaos flourishes, so too does my work. (Chaotic)
6) Noble Cause: I am a mercenary who raises their weapon only in the name of something I believe in (Good).
D6 Bond
1) I chose this life to support my family, who would probably not survive on their own.
2) I fight for a lover that know little, if not nothing, of me.
3) I was inspired by a great hero to become a mercenary.
4) I treat my comrades like brothers, and I will let no insult or injury befall them.
5) I bury who I am under countless secrets, and I would rather die than face the truth.
6) I always respect a contract, as long as the money’s good.
D6 Flaw
1) I’ll do anything for money, damn the consequences
2) As much as I pretend to love fighting, I secretly hate hurting others.
3) I have crippling debts that I can only barely make payments on.
4) I will always see a contract completed, even if that means doing something heinous along the way.
5) I care not for the lives of the innocent on the battlefield, so they better not get in my way.
6) Someone powerful is out to get me, unless I find them first.
Male Human Fighter 4, AC 20, Touch 10 (12), FF 19; HP 21/41(47), Fort +8 Ref +1, Will 0; Initiative 0; Perception -2, Bravery +1 (+1 saves vs. fear); Hellfire Private (Order of the Bonfire) 3 Con damage
I've played through almost to the end of Bloodborne (got stuck on the DLC). Ask away, Pahleg.
I'm so sorry guys. It turns out I don't have the sufficient interest to GM a second season of this game, at least not in the foreseeable future. Apologies. It may take half a year, at least, to get in the mood again.
This lack of interest could for PbP in general, or even for the whole tabletop RPG thing -- but that probably doesn't concern you guys. But yeah, that's how bad it is.
If it's any consolation, you guys have been the most awesome and supportive players since ever. 10 out of 10 (would GM again).
Male Human Commoner 2/ Philosopher 2/ Gamer 5/ Writer 5
I understand fully. Take the time you need, and thanks for being honest about not feeling like you have the will/energy/interest to GM this. If you ever want to run something, please drop a line, because I've really enjoyed my time with you, and if/when I'm recruiting for a game, definitely jump in if you're interested!
