Temple of Elemental Evil - Delving the depths of the Abyss on Golarian.

Game Master Tirion Jörðhár

(IC)
►Where are you from originally?
There was a pause in the motion of the tankard being drunk from and what sounded suspiciously like a small sigh before it is lowered and the expression on his face is reluctant, perhaps even troubled. His free hand ran through the thick curls on his head that were tied back with a bandanna, and he favored the speaker with an open look that that momentarily gave a glimpse of a whole spread of emotions. Most of them seemed like the ones that are only honest at night, in the darkness before sleep.

"Can't tell you.. Not 'won't', just 'can't'", and just like that, the charmer was back, a smile showing on his face as if he were recalling a fond memory, spinning it like he was a storyteller, leaning back in his chair. "I c'n remember Absalom-- pretty place, everything you'd want", he glossed. "And before that, another city, another port-- Diobel?"

There was a shake of his head and a shrug, one hand still on the tankard, the other below the table, likely resting on his lap. "But I was young then, still a child.. I really remember Oppara, an' from there, it was caravans an' taverns." This time, the grin was genuine, leaning forward to rest both elbows on the table. "With nothing to do, you do something, and for me, money was always being won or lost on games of chance.. So you get good, and keep the roof over your head, or--"

His head turned as a barmaid passed, giving her a small grin and a wink, earning what could have been a giggle if it could be heard in the general din of the tavern, and perhaps even a blush, if it could be seen with her walking away like that. "--well", he continued, returning his attention, wearing a confident smile. "..There's always work that'll earn you a bed for a night, at least."

►How did you hear about the problems in northern Taldor and how did you get there?
"Scattered talk, to be honest." With both elbows on the table, he spread his hands and gathered the tankard back to himself, looking up to catch a barmaid's eye, tapping his tankard with an expressive gesture. "First thing on arriving-- if you do what I do-- is find the good games, and get to where they are. You also tend to hear a good bit of other things as well. It just so happened that it was the time of year that the caravans were heading that way, so I found myself getting closer and closer, until I figured I might as well see what all this gossip was about."

►Where did your sorcerer powers arise from?
"Their 'source', you mean?"

There was an eloquent shrug, and he rubbed his hands together, looking around before he reached into the pack that was hidden under the table and pulled out a candle. A snap of his fingers lit the wick, and with a look of casual concentration, he cupped his hand under the flame, his lips moving like they were saying something.. After a second, the flame jumped from the wick to his hand, but once it reached his hand the flame changed somehow... It was hard to say, but the flame that had been on the wick was but a pale shadow of this almost-living flame.

It vanished when he closed his hand, without even a hint of a burn in evidence on his palm, save for some stray wax. "I'm guessing Fire somehow, but I haven't tried to find specifically what or how yet.. Probably should, once I know how to employ it better."

You left Kyonin before the war against the Temple. Have you been back at all in the past 100 years? If so, did you hear any stories of the war?

Malaswyn has not returned to Kyonin in the last hundred years, his service was to a travelling god and contains an element of self-sacrifice. I would assume that he as heard of the stories and as a Desnan would not be quick to dismiss such stories, considering that even if they weren't literally true they might reveal deeper truths through allegory or symbolic meaning.

Ultimately, I'm happy for Malaswyn to know as little or as much as is best for the campaign: right now he can only know what is in your introduction.

Are you planning on focusing on archery? What other roles do you expect to play in the party?

Malaswyn might end up with a few more archery feats but ultimately I see him as taking advantage of the flexibility of clerics, providing buffs and battlefield control alongside out-of-combat healing. His archery is to contribute against weaker foes or in a pinch and will probably become less promineent as he gains levels. I should also be able to keep his AC up enough to shield wizards and suchlike if they get closed down.

What interest does Desna, a deity with her principle focus and worship in Varisia, have in the Temple far to the south and east in Taldor?

Desna is one of the truly global deities and her focus on travel and encouraging pilgrimage means she lends herslef to wandering clerics (there is a Desnan PRC which requires lots of travel). Malaswyn is Desnan because he is from Kyonin and I thought the travel/pilgrimage/exile backstory was a really neat story that worked well for an elf.

Obviously, none of us can know the will of the gods and I tried to leave Desna's mission open for you to use as you see fit: at the start of a campaign and without a huge amount to go on I would rather create opportunities for RP than make wild guesses about the nature of an adventure I have not read. Certainly Desna is one of the active Goodly gods and this is the Temple of Elelemental EVIL, so that might be motive enough. She helped to cage Rovagug, opposes Lamashtu and protects the freedom and peace of the vulnerable and the weak.

Did you grow up in Absalom?
Yes, she was born and raised in Absalom, she is Taldan on her mother’s side, she never knew her real father but nothing in her appearance hints at her paternal heritage.

How have you made your way to the desolate north of Taldor?
Even though Taldor has lost much of it’s former glory, bards still sing about the riches of this once great empire. In a lousy tavern, frequented by the gang she used to run with, a bard one night told her the story of a desolated place in barren northern Taldor, where much wealth was waiting on the ones willing to claim it. Desperately wanting to return to the good graces of her stepfather, she thought that this might be a option to regain much of the standing she had lost and perhaps his respect. Quitting the gang wasn’t an option, so one night she snuck down to the harbour and aboard a ship heading to Oppara. She managed to bribe on of the sailors into hiding her for some of her last gold. When they docked in Oppara , she felt very alone. Not knowing anyone she went from merchant to merchant looking for some one sailing north. Her decent looks and quick tongue finally landed her a job as a maid to some merchant’s wife heading up Cassomir. It was long hours but the work was fairly easy thought boring, washing cloth, braiding hair and dressing her mistress. So when in Cassomir she helped herself to a generous sewerage pay from the merchant’s stock. Now closer to her destination problems started to arise. The guards were looking for her because of the theft and not many travel opportunities presented themselves. Once again she got lucky, her stepfather’s tutoring landed her a job identifying arcane scriptures for a ill wizard in an adventuring party travelling up river to Yanmass. Unfortunately for the wizard he died of his disease but it got her a job offer once they arrived, however the leader was a little to friendly and a day later she left his service. Now stranded in Yanmass she looks for someone, who can take her to riches and back.

Some pointers on her background:
Her stepfather never stopped loving her and misses her, she just doesn’t know.

What was the source of your destined eldrich heritage?
As a player I haven’t decided that yet. The easy way would be to attribute it to her father’s lineage but I feel that would be to cheapen an otherwise good plot hook. I would like to flesh this part out with you if chosen. Some idea I have at the moment include:
.. A birth fortold by Nethys’ clerics as one of the next great scions of magic.
.. She was conceived on a ley line thereby disrupting a magic ritual and unknowingly stole magic intended for another child.
.. Unknown to her mother a curse placed on her family dampening magic ability would be lifted in her generation, perhaps the descendants of the one who placed it seeks to inforce it again?

Since he left, Arindale has not been back to see his family. He is not sure if his sister took over the Inn, but it wouldn't surprise him, she had a knack for business.
As far as his friends, when he last saw them they had fallen to a man. If he thought there was any way to save them he would have stayed and fought on.
He is not a coward, but when the Goblins overran their position he knew he had to flee.
He used his abilties to move through the woods with magical movement, just able to out-run the Goblins. He feels remorse that he was able to escape and they didn't, but not being too bright he also drinks to forget, to him it seems the best solution.

Your age is 19, but the wars took place 80 years ago. Might want to rework this.

Why did you go to northern Taldor rather than somewhere else after leaving Kyonin.

Check your stats - your Foible has to start at 9 or lower with a minimum of 7. Right now you lowest starting stat is Str 10. Also, I understand the interest in middle age, but I think that I will say no to that. You can be older for character development, but not for stats at this point. If you are within 2-3 years of the age change, then during the adventure, you likely will advance and be able to alter your stats at that point. I just think that with a Int/Wis/Cha character with no real need for physical stats, this unbalances things to start the campaign.

Once the elderly wizard left, where did you acquire his magical knowledge and training?

Where is Evangline from? How did she get to northern Taldor and where did she hear about the issues here.

What did Heather do to cause the destruction of your family’s estate?

With Aasimar blood, what is her tie with dragons which would give rise to a draconic bloodline? Especially an evil Red?

How has the manor in Galt survived in a land that has been in almost constant civil war for years? Has the manor ever been attacked? If yes, by whom?

I'm led to understand that Woodsedge is something of the origination point for Galt's radical thinkers, so it would tend to at least escape destruction at the hand's of radicals. I also imagine the manor has not fully escaped unscathed. (Part of this is that I didn't want to have a PC start with a real "home")

I believe the family manor has been abandoned and looted in the last several decades, but many of it's books may have been overlooked because they are penned in Elvish.

The state of disrepair doesn't stop Saeldar from using the home, sitting cross-legged with Ar'an snoozing nearby while he pours over the forgotten books. Deep down inside, he actually believes it's appropriate he's researching "radical magicks" in a community known for radical thinking.

As to the manor being attacked, I left this intentionally unspecified. Saeldur likely believes it was whatever-government-that-happened-to-be-in-control years ago when it was looted. However, I'm always a fan of a more insidious background - where maybe other elves from Kyonin actually stripped the manor of evidence of Saeldur's father's past actions, and their actions were covered by a seemingly random act for that area in that day. So to answer in full - Saeldur's not sure, and despite being a very thorough person - he has overlooked this detail.

Why has he decided to leave the comfort of his dusty books for a life of an adventurer?

I wouldn't peg him as a bookworm. I mentioned that in the 'possible hooks' spoiler that Saeldar has been looking for something of his father's (a MacGuffin) for a very long time. I didn't want to overly complicate the backstory, but I perceive his father agreed to utilize questionable magic decades ago in the Fog Peaks, perhaps employing a demon as a counter to a devil, or vice versa. As a reward for this final service, he was allowed to travel to Sovyrian. None of this is known to Saeldar, who is completely unaware of if his father lives, or what role he played beyond being a "very powerful elven mage who was instrumental in what happened at the Fog Peaks". If you're the kind of GM who likes to weave intricate hooks into a campaign for a player, I'd think that Saeldur will at some point discover his father traveled a very similar path as he did - being an elf who turned to witchcraft as a means to an end.

How did he hear about the resurgence of troubles in northern Taldor? How did he travel to Yanmass?

Great question, I thought I put this into the backstory but see I missed it. When digging around in the abandoned tomes, Saeldur found a note scribed in his father's hand, indicating hints at what happened in the Fog Peaks decades ago, and has thus decided to retrace his same steps to Yanmass. Upon arrival, he may be somewhat ignorant to current events (as he has been somewhat introverted into his own business the past twenty-some years), but would be acutely interested in seizing any current opportunity to investigate events than transpired years ago.

He would have accompanied a standard caravan for this journey, and if selected to the campaign, I'd be curious is any other PCs went their route where the backstory of the journey to Yanmass could be woven together slightly to help mitigate the "5-6 total strangers banding together for the first time ever in an inn" suspension-of-disbelief.

Thanks for your consideration, I appreciate the attention to detail you are giving to all applicants...

Is anyone from your old gang still alive? If so, where are they? What was the brother doing during the five years he was gone and where did they go?

That five year absence was spent with a preist of Desna, initially to work off a debt incurred by the other brother. Over the course of this he became a priest of Desna himself, travelling as far as Korvosa, before returning then leaving again with his brother. They are assumed still alive.

Did your father ever tell you anything about your mother?

Other than the occasional drunken rants about it being a mistake coming near that "damned woman", and that his fellow adventuring Paladin friend had warned him, he's told her nothing. She has heard the story of her mother stepping from the flames of the hearth with her as well as leaving through them.

Why did Asasha have to leave after her mother was killed? Why was her mother killed?

The noble that killed her did so during an attempted rape and Asasha was a witness. While Zariah suspects as much, Asasha never told her before taking off so she has no proof. She was ready to attack the man anyway, but the brothers convinced her not to.

What did the scroll say that sent Ramos north?

"Along the Sea that is not yet a Sea, lays a once great empire. During the Reign of the half-mad king, a primordial evil will arise in the north in the earthen teeth surrounded by fog and blanketed by great sweeping plains. Companions will gather, pulled by many strings to face this evil. Oh the weight upon their shoulders. Should this great darkness not be stopped, I only see the blistering heat of fires, the sweeping torrent of floods, the crushing weight of stone and the scouring of air. The would will never be the same again. This I foretell."

Is Ramos originally from Katapesh? Or was he just there for work?

Actually, Ramos is from Osirion. He was born and raised in the Monastery of Light an outpost of Serenrae located in southern Osirion along the Asp river. During his time as a priest of Serenrae Ramos traveled several times between the border of Osirion and Katapesh as part of his duties. Specifically Ramos was in Katapesh on orders to investigate a scroll foretelling of a great desecration wrought by men.

How did Ramos get to northern Taldor?

Ramos took the first ship he could find from Katapesh to Oppara. Then he locate a river barge traveling up the Sellen River and taking the Verduran Fork to eventually reach Casmaron.

Since he lost faith in Sarenrae, what is his opinion of those who worship other deities? Does he still believe in the Dawnflower and other deities? Or just Groetus?

Ramos cannot deny that other gods have power. He may believe that the end is near, but he is no fool. He has seen other priests maintain their faith, and be rewarded with blessings from their gods. But on the other hand, Ramos has lost faith that the Gods indeed care about humans and that it's foolish to put stock in any form of "Divine Intervention". In turn Ramos is a man that has lost his faith in the Dawnflower as a protector of the night. During the one time in his life that he truly needed divine assistance, there was none to be found. Serenrae did not protect his wife and child, his friends and companions when the madness and nightmares descended on the monastery.

1) Where is Evangline from? How did she get to northern Taldor and where did she hear about the issues here.

"I was born and raised in Mendev, and when I got old enough I went out seeking to do good and to see the world and not just Mendev's country side.
I ended up overheard the issues from traveling merchants that came from northern Taldor.
And thus set out for Northern Taldor by various means, from horseback to walking. "

2) What did Heather do to cause the destruction of your family’s estate?
"Rumour has it that she sold her soul to a devil to get revenge.
But since the devil followed it to the letter, it only effected the estate."

3) With Aasimar blood, what is her tie with dragons which would give rise to a draconic bloodline? Especially an evil Red?

"I think the blood of dragons came from my Father, Duke Elric Van Aurora.
I believe my father's line does go into Brevoy at one point during Choral the Conqueror's rain.
I get the feeling that blood was dormant for some generations and needed a genetic catalyst to awaken it."

Background changed to show a ten year ongoing relationship with the wizard. Also changed to teleportation subschool to try the shifting Su out as a quick way to dismount (should be kind of clever). Stats changed to reflect starting just prior to middle-aged. Although two stats are low, I purposely left many of my non-primary stats as odd to allow you to delay aging to balance the use of two low stats. Since Str can't be put at -7 to start, Braden really only has one 'dump stat".

Where is Molasbar from? What nation or region?

Where has he travelled? How does he travel?

If he is so interested in discovered arcane methods of healing, why his focus on evocation? Seems like the exact opposite?

What is the source of your Aasimar heritage?

Did you have any wizard mentors or teachers?

How did you afford to buy passage to Taldor and how did you make your way north from there?

People considered you good luck while you were young, were there any religions or deities whose followers in particular considered you good luck.

Why was a Varisian tattooed sorcerer wandering in Taldor?

How do you correlate your good leaning referenced in question 7 with your interest in negative energy and Necromancy?

Please check your stats - you are missing a foible - once stat must be 9 or lower before any modifiers (with a minimum of 7).

Why did your father decide to send you to far off Absalom rather than the conjuring specializing schools in Korvosa and Cheliax?

Where did he get the tome? Who wrote it and what did it say?

You responded to my previous post that you were an “arcane defender”. I am not sure what exact class this is. Earlier you had posted Barbarian(Titan Mauler)-->Monk-->Magus as you leveled. Sorry for the confusion, but I just want to know which class/archetype you are starting with and if you plan on multi-classing, which you are planning on switching to.

There is no actual class of 'Arcane Defender'. I am hoping to create the feel of the tulwar wielding, turban wearing Saracen. So on the one hand you have Clerics and Whirling Dervishes of Sarenrae and here on the other you have the trained mage side of things.

Character class choices by level breakdown.

1stLvl Barbarian(Titan-mauler,1)
2ndlvl Barbadian(Titan-mauler,2)
3rdLvl Magus(Kensai,1)
4thLvl Magus(Kensai,2)
Leveling in Magus(Kensai) for every level there after.

I hope that clears some things up for you. *Bows*

Regarding your background, where is .Sunset. from? Where did she grow up and where did she train? What caused you to travel to Yanmass? And how did you get there?

The beginning..is a very delicate time...

In the far past as Humans recon it there was a great cataclysm. By the memories of other races such an event is not so distant a memory.

Before the event known now as 'Earth fall' there were groups and races who were, if not ready, at least partially prepared. The Rune Lords of Thassilon vanished, possibly destroyed but more likely in hiding. The Elves stepped away, into another realm, to await the passing troubles.

However not all of the fair folk fled. Some remained, whether steadfast and true or perhaps trapped and unable to join the exodus. One such small band found shelter amongst the dark and troubled forests and hills in a place that is in today's language known as Taldor. Hidden away where the Verduran forest meets the Fog peaks did the group settle. There did they stay and survive and pray fro the cumming of the new dawn.

Today the Elves who live in their secluded settlement continue to worship the Dawnflower. Giving thanks to said Goddess for their safety and survival those few generations ago. However, with the cumming of the Human's of the nation of Taldor and their 'Great crusades' the Elves realized that just Clerics devoted to Sarenrae would not necessarily be enough to protect their enclave.

So, with the studying of the arcane arts and blending said styles with that of sword play they sought to create an arcane defender of the faith to fight along side the holy orders. To whit 'Saracens of Sarenrae'.

Sunset (The name she has taken until such a time as she fells/demonstrates being worthy of her given/proper names) is one such neophyte Saracens. Recently given into the service of a caravan sent to trade goods and such, she has continued East, following the new dawns.

Why she does not yet know, but she feels the pull perhaps of the Goddess. Maybe this is the test she seeks to show and prove her worth. Or perhaps it is just wander lust and she (Not very wisely) has given into such feelings thinking it is the will of her Goddess...

Nicolae CR 1/2
Male Tiefling Wizard 1
NN Medium Outsider (Native)
Init +9; Senses Darkvision (60 feet); Perception +2
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DEFENSE
--------------------
AC 13, touch 13, flat-footed 10 (+3 Dex)
hp 9 (1d6+2)
Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +2
Resist cold 5, electricity 5, fire 5
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OFFENSE
--------------------
Spd 30 ft.
Melee Dagger +0 (1d4/19-20/x2) and
Quarterstaff +0 (1d6/20/x2) and
Unarmed Strike +0 (1d3/20/x2)
Ranged Crossbow, Light +3 (1d8/19-20/x2)
Spell-Like Abilities Darkness (1/day)
Wizard Spells Known (CL 1, 0 melee touch, 3 ranged touch):
1 (2/day) Color Spray (DC 15), Magic Missile, Grease (DC 16)
0 (at will) Dancing Lights, Read Magic (DC 14), Detect Magic
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STATISTICS
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Str 11, Dex 16, Con 15, Int 19, Wis 10, Cha 7
Base Atk +0; CMB +0; CMD 13
Feats Scribe Scroll, Spell Focus: Conjuration, Wizard Weapon Proficiencies
Traits Focused Mind, Reactionary
Skills Bluff +0, Fly +7, Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Knowledge (Dungeoneering) +8, Knowledge (Engineering) +8, Knowledge (Planes) +8, Knowledge (Religion) +8, Perception +2, Sense Motive +2, Spellcraft +8, Stealth +5
Languages Abyssal, Aklo, Common, Draconic, Goblin, Infernal
SQ +4 bonus on initiative checks, Abjuration, Acid Dart (7/day) (Su), Conjuration, Earplugs, Empathic Link with Familiar (Su), Necromancy, Share Spells with Familiar, Summoner's Charm (+1r) (Su)
Combat Gear Bolts, Crossbow (20), Crossbow, Light, Dagger, Quarterstaff; Other Gear Backpack (13 @ 15.22 lbs), Bedroll, Case, map or scroll (empty), Chalk, 1 piece, Earplugs, Ink (1 oz. vial, black), Inkpen, Parchment (sheet) (2), Rations, trail (per day) (2), Scroll: Comprehend Languages, Mage Armor (CL 2), Spell component pouch, Spellbook, wizard's, Waterskin
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SPECIAL ABILITIES
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+4 bonus on initiative checks You gain the Alertness feat while your familiar is within arm's reach.
Abjuration You must spend 2 slots to cast spells from the Abjuration school.
Acid Dart (7/day) (Su) 30' Ranged touch attack deals 1d6+0 Acid damage.
Conjuration The conjurer focuses on the study of summoning monsters and magic alike to bend to his will.
Damage Resistance, Cold (5) You have the specified Damage Resistance against Cold attacks.
Damage Resistance, Electricity (5) You have the specified Damage Resistance against Electricity attacks.
Damage Resistance, Fire (5) You have the specified Damage Resistance against Fire attacks.
Darkness (1/day) (Sp) Darkness once per day.
Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white vision only).
Earplugs +2 save vs. hearing effects, -5 hearing-based Perception.
Empathic Link with Familiar (Su) You have an empathic link with your Arcane Familiar.
Focused Mind +2 to Concentration checks
Necromancy You must spend 2 slots to cast spells from the Necromancy school.
Share Spells with Familiar The wizard may cast a spell with a target of "You" on his familiar (as a touch spell) instead of on himself. A wizard may cast spells on his familiar even if the spells do not normally affect creatures of the familiar's type (magical beast).
Spell Focus: Conjuration Spells from one school of magic have +1 to their save DC.
Summoner's Charm (+1r) (Su) Increase duration of summoning spells by 1/2 level (permanent at 20).

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Pathfinder® and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC®, and are used under license.

ARCANE FAMILIAR CR 1/4
Male Scorpion, Greensting
NN Tiny Magical Beast ((Vermin))
Init +3; Senses Darkvision (60 feet); Perception +4
--------------------
DEFENSE
--------------------
AC 19, touch 15, flat-footed 16 (+3 Dex, +2 size, +4 natural)
hp 4 (1d8)
Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +2
--------------------
OFFENSE
--------------------
Spd 30 ft.
Melee Sting (Scorpion, Greensting) +5 (1d2-4/20/x2) and
Unarmed Strike +5 (1-4/20/x2)
Space 2.5 ft.; Reach 0 ft.
--------------------
STATISTICS
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Str 3, Dex 16, Con 10, Int -, Wis 10, Cha 2
Base Atk +0; CMB +1; CMD 7 (15 vs. Trip)
Feats Weapon Finesse
Skills Climb +7, Fly +8, Perception +4, Spellcraft +1, Stealth +15, Swim +3
Languages
SQ Improved Evasion (Ex), Poison (Ex)

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SPECIAL ABILITIES
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Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white vision only).
Improved Evasion (Ex) No damage on successful reflex save; half on failed save.
Poison (Ex) Sting - injury; save Fort DC 10; frequency 1/round for 6 rounds; effect sickened for 1 round; cure 1 save.

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Pathfinder® and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC®, and are used under license.

Played the original way back in the day and played the computer game a few years back. Have always loved it!

1) Before you is a huge web. In it are a priest of Iomedae and a beautiful maiden. You have time to rescue one of them, which one and why?

Nicolae looks at the two and a slight smile crosses his face. Hmmm...it seems you two are in a serious predicament. Priest, I am sure you are ready and willing to sacrifice yourself for the life of this innocent maiden? As Nicolae removes the woman from the web, he gently kisses her hand and turns his attention to the priest. I am convinced Iomedae will reward you handsomely for your sacrifice. It appears Nethys has already rewarded me.

2) You are traveling through the forest and you suddenly see three goblins poking at a bound prisoner on the ground. What do you do?

Nasty little goblins what are you up to? Nicolae watches on silently in the shadows to see what transpires. After making sure no greater power is involved, Nicolae confronts the goblins. If he is unable to talk his way out of it, he finishes them off and then expects a reward from the prisoner. I would love to untie your bonds. If only you had something to give me to return my kindness. Nicolae searches through the gear and if he finds something of value offers to release the prisoner if he is willing to make a fair trade.

3) You just returned from successfully defeating a dragon which had been terrorizing the local villages. An orphanage requested that the brave heroes come so that the children can meet them. You accept, but then receive an invitation from the King to join him at a banquet in your honor. You cannot do both, what do you do?

Oh, I just love a grand party and fine dining. I am sure the children will understand. Perhaps I could visit them another day. It is not every day that my companions and I get a chance to receive a reward worthy of our station.

4) How do you expect your character to develop by level 5? Level 10?

Nicolae plans to grow in power as a wizard (conjurer 1-20). He will play innocent and weak for the first few levels attempting to use his fine companions as human shields. Once he grows in power, he will control each encounter either by utility spells or battlefield control. He makes a great addition to any party and plays a more cerebral style (focusing on defeating enemies with his smarts).

5) Who is your favorite villain and your favorite hero from a medieval story and why? Can be historic, from a book, or from a movie. 


Raistlin Majere from Dragonlance for both. I am also a big fan of Gandalf-LOTR (Hero) and Strahd von Zarovich (Ravenloft).

6) Let me know if/how much you have played/read the ToEE - any version including AD&D, 3rd Ed., Return to ToEE, or any video games or novels.

TOEE AD&D as a child. The computer game a few years back. 


7) You are sitting in a tavern when a distraught father runs in and announces that his daughter has been kidnapped by brigands and now they are demanding a ransom or will kill her. He says he has no money to reward the party but hears that the brigands have had much success. What do you do?

Aide my fellow adventurers at tracking down the brigands and saving his daughter. If the father has no gold, maybe the town does and will reward us handsomely.

Nicolae was left on the steps of a Temple to Nethys in Ustalav as an infant. The priest saw his duel race as a sign from Nethys that the child was destined for greatness. The priest raised him as his own son. Nicolae excelled in the classroom and picked up things quicker than the other kids. Even in Ustalav, Nicolae was strange. Because of his success in class and his weird looks, he was picked on daily. As he grew, the bullying increased. He learned how to escape physical confrontation by quickness and wit(REACTIONARY). When things got too bad for him, his father sent him off to Absalom to a school of the arcane. Nicolae found his new school challenging. He was no longer the smartest kid in class. He learned to work hard and gained a thirst for knowledge. He spent hours studying ancient tomes looking for some advantage over his classmates.
After graduating from the university, he decided to seek out ancient writings to continue his studies. He had a desire to grow in power.Like the deity he was taught to revere, he holds magic above all. He recently read a tome about a possible Temple that holds ancient power and has left to investigate.

Nicolae is a complex individual. He is an extremely loyal friend, but takes awhile to get to know people. He is interested in anything magic and ancient writings. He is a team player and likes to control situation around him including the battlefield. Due to his upbringing and poor charisma, he is often impatient and speaks rashly when put out or if he doesn't like someone.

I have played role playing games since AD&D back in the early 80s. I have the ability to post multiple times and day. I have an IPhone 4s and IPad2 to have access to posting 24 hours a day. I played the original TOEE as a child and fell in love with the scenario. Next to Ravenloft, it is my favorite module of all time. I do not remember much of the details so that will not be a problem. My submission was put together quickly due to having a bunch of classes this semester. I just took my last test and have graduated so that will not be a problem in the future. You can check out my posting history, RPing ability, and technical Pathfinder knowledge from my other toons including Rorgrim in Tark Skulls and shackles. I believe the GM has the final word and am more interested in fun and RPing than arguing rules. I think I would make a great addition to this group. Nicolae will be a team member, but with an inner struggle of thirst for power. Do you remember Raistlin Majere? ;)

1. Well you know Varisians, they are innate wanderers. It didn't seem too far fetched to me :P. Tattoos are a big part of their culture. I'd like to think the Varisian was "between adventures" while he spent some leisure time travelling in Taldor, but i'd just as happily cede creative control over that bit to you if you preferred to use it as some kind of hook.

2. Necromancy itself is not evil. Krenace won't be manifesting any spells with the [Evil] descriptor nor does he have any interest in raising the dead. With a Drow parent, i'd like to think that his bloodline will be partly responsible for his necromantic affinity. If anything, for most of his career he'll be using non-lethal Necromancy- Rays of Enfeeblement, Scare etc.

Unless his experiences really change the way I was planning to RP him, I don't think he'll fall "darkside" enough to start animating the dead etc.

Sorry if that was a little short. I should finally start to get my free time back tomorrow. Its been a blur of activity and i'm exhausted.

What is the source of your Aasimar heritage?

My mother, the beautiful Peri that she was, found herself drawn to the material plane. Bound to an evil wizard she was forced to do his bidding for many years. At the end of her forced servitude she found that she was unable to return to home plane. Over the years that she had served the wizard, she had found that he had a spark of goodness in him. Deciding that her purpose was to redeem him, she remained with him. And soon became his wife. As she was no longer forced to do his bidding, she was able to temper the severity of his actions. And overtime she thought he had come to love her as well. And this is how Ynaeve came into the world, born of goodness and evil, marked by her divine parent, and cursed by her father's nature. It was her birth that pulled the veil from her mother's eyes and showed the true depravity that her husband was willing to embrace.

Over the next few months her mother made several arrangements, hoping that mother and daughter could escape before it was too late. Using her ability to travel great distances by flames, Ynaeve's mother jumped into the great fire that was meant to devour the soul of the innocent Ynaeve. The wizard had learned of his wife's planned betrayal and had set a trap in place. Only partially successful, the trap consumed Ynaeve's mother in hell-born flames, but not before Ynaeve was thrust through the fire gate with a small pack. With little money and only a few supplies, Ynaeve fled. Finding herself in Absalom where she was able to find lodging and live as a street rat. She knows of her history from a journal left by her mother. Unfortunately, her mother never named her father, and she knows not who he is.

By way of a Peri mother and a human father, Ynaeve finds that her Aasimar heritage is known as Emberkin.

Did you have any wizard mentors or teachers?

Ynaeve grew up in Absalom and always desired to attend the Arcanamirium. She found that her presence as a scholarship child coupled with the stereotypical expectations of an Aasimar left her socially outcast. Her fiery sense of humor didn't help. During her recuperation from the fire that left her mentally and physically scarredm she was offered an opportunity to take the entrance examinations for the Arcanamirium. She doesn't know who it is, but an alumni of the school provided a writ paying for her education. The writ only stipulated that she must study at the Arcanamirium. It was implied that she was beholden to the alumni. Having spent many years on the streets, Ynaeve saw no option but to take this opportunity and deal with the strings and consequences later.

How did you afford to buy passage to Taldor and how did you make your way north from there?

Ynaeve studied hard and excelled at the Arcanamirium. She has all but graduated as a journeyman wizard. Somewhat unusual in scope, she was informed that she must travel to Taldor and join a group of adventures therein. Here report of her actions and findings is her final exam. Lastly, she must make her own way there. Fortunately for Ynaeve, though often tight-fisted and heavy handed, she was able to pay for passage on a Taldoran freighter leaving Absalom, though it took nearly all of her savings. She was able to recoup a little bit of her funds by working through the passage as an assistant to the ship's cook.

People considered you good luck while you were young, were there any religions or deities whose followers in particular considered you good luck.

She has found it an interesting dichotomy that people that follow Moloch and Sarenrae are both drawn to her. Maybe it's the shared affinity for fire, maybe it's something to do with her parents. She avoids leading either on. She finds it interesting that so many can be drawn in by Moloch's willingness to help someone out under a pretense of greater good, only to find their soul lost afterwards.

We've kept Astra Vesper's spot warm for you, if you want to get back on board wih Council of Thieves.
Actually, they're getting thumped by an owlbear right now and a dramatic rescue might be just the way to re-inroduce Astra.
PM me or pop into the discussion thread.

Str (1) 11
Dex (5) 16 (+2 race)
Con (7) 15
Int (13) 19 (+2 race)
Wis (0) 10
Cha (-1) 7 (-2 race)

Nicolae CR 1/2
Male Tiefling Wizard 1
NN Medium Outsider (Native)
Init +9; Senses Darkvision (60 feet); Perception +2
--------------------
DEFENSE
--------------------
AC 13, touch 13, flat-footed 10 (+3 Dex)
hp 9 (1d6+2)
Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +2
Resist cold 5, electricity 5, fire 5
--------------------
OFFENSE
--------------------
Spd 30 ft.
Melee Dagger +0 (1d4/19-20/x2) and
Quarterstaff +0 (1d6/20/x2) and
Unarmed Strike +0 (1d3/20/x2)
Ranged Crossbow, Light +3 (1d8/19-20/x2)
Spell-Like Abilities Darkness (1/day)
Wizard Spells Known (CL 1, 0 melee touch, 3 ranged touch):
1 (2/day) Color Spray (DC 15), Magic Missile, Grease (DC 16)
0 (at will) Dancing Lights, Read Magic (DC 14), Detect Magic
--------------------
STATISTICS
--------------------
Str 11, Dex 16, Con 15, Int 19, Wis 10, Cha 7
Base Atk +0; CMB +0; CMD 13
Feats Scribe Scroll, Spell Focus: Conjuration, Wizard Weapon Proficiencies
Traits Focused Mind, Reactionary
Skills Bluff +0, Fly +7, Knowledge (Arcana) +8, Knowledge (Dungeoneering) +8, Knowledge (Engineering) +8, Knowledge (Planes) +8, Knowledge (Religion) +8, Perception +2, Sense Motive +2, Spellcraft +8, Stealth +5
Languages Abyssal, Aklo, Common, Draconic, Goblin, Infernal
SQ +4 bonus on initiative checks, Abjuration, Acid Dart (7/day) (Su), Conjuration, Earplugs, Empathic Link with Familiar (Su), Necromancy, Share Spells with Familiar, Summoner's Charm (+1r) (Su)
Combat Gear Bolts, Crossbow (20), Crossbow, Light, Dagger, Quarterstaff; Other Gear Backpack (13 @ 15.22 lbs), Bedroll, Case, map or scroll (empty), Chalk, 1 piece, Earplugs, Ink (1 oz. vial, black), Inkpen, Parchment (sheet) (2), Rations, trail (per day) (2), Scroll: Comprehend Languages, Mage Armor (CL 2), Spell component pouch, Spellbook, wizard's, Waterskin
--------------------
SPECIAL ABILITIES
--------------------
+4 bonus on initiative checks You gain the Alertness feat while your familiar is within arm's reach.
Abjuration You must spend 2 slots to cast spells from the Abjuration school.
Acid Dart (7/day) (Su) 30' Ranged touch attack deals 1d6+0 Acid damage.
Conjuration The conjurer focuses on the study of summoning monsters and magic alike to bend to his will.
Damage Resistance, Cold (5) You have the specified Damage Resistance against Cold attacks.
Damage Resistance, Electricity (5) You have the specified Damage Resistance against Electricity attacks.
Damage Resistance, Fire (5) You have the specified Damage Resistance against Fire attacks.
Darkness (1/day) (Sp) Darkness once per day.
Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white vision only).
Earplugs +2 save vs. hearing effects, -5 hearing-based Perception.
Empathic Link with Familiar (Su) You have an empathic link with your Arcane Familiar.
Focused Mind +2 to Concentration checks
Necromancy You must spend 2 slots to cast spells from the Necromancy school.
Share Spells with Familiar The wizard may cast a spell with a target of "You" on his familiar (as a touch spell) instead of on himself. A wizard may cast spells on his familiar even if the spells do not normally affect creatures of the familiar's type (magical beast).
Spell Focus: Conjuration Spells from one school of magic have +1 to their save DC.
Summoner's Charm (+1r) (Su) Increase duration of summoning spells by 1/2 level (permanent at 20).

Hero Lab® and the Hero Lab logo are Registered Trademarks of LWD Technology, Inc. Free download at http://www.wolflair.com
Pathfinder® and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC®, and are used under license.

ARCANE FAMILIAR CR 1/4
Male Scorpion, Greensting
NN Tiny Magical Beast ((Vermin))
Init +3; Senses Darkvision (60 feet); Perception +4
--------------------
DEFENSE
--------------------
AC 19, touch 15, flat-footed 16 (+3 Dex, +2 size, +4 natural)
hp 4 (1d8)
Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +2
--------------------
OFFENSE
--------------------
Spd 30 ft.
Melee Sting (Scorpion, Greensting) +5 (1d2-4/20/x2) and
Unarmed Strike +5 (1-4/20/x2)
Space 2.5 ft.; Reach 0 ft.
--------------------
STATISTICS
--------------------
Str 3, Dex 16, Con 10, Int -, Wis 10, Cha 2
Base Atk +0; CMB +1; CMD 7 (15 vs. Trip)
Feats Weapon Finesse
Skills Climb +7, Fly +8, Perception +4, Spellcraft +1, Stealth +15, Swim +3
Languages
SQ Improved Evasion (Ex), Poison (Ex)

--------------------
SPECIAL ABILITIES
--------------------
Darkvision (60 feet) You can see in the dark (black and white vision only).
Improved Evasion (Ex) No damage on successful reflex save; half on failed save.
Poison (Ex) Sting - injury; save Fort DC 10; frequency 1/round for 6 rounds; effect sickened for 1 round; cure 1 save.

Hero Lab® and the Hero Lab logo are Registered Trademarks of LWD Technology, Inc. Free download at http://www.wolflair.com
Pathfinder® and associated marks and logos are trademarks of Paizo Publishing, LLC®, and are used under license.

Played the original way back in the day and played the computer game a few years back. Have always loved it!

1) Before you is a huge web. In it are a priest of Iomedae and a beautiful maiden. You have time to rescue one of them, which one and why?

Nicolae looks at the two and a slight smile crosses his face. Hmmm...it seems you two are in a serious predicament. Priest, I am sure you are ready and willing to sacrifice yourself for the life of this innocent maiden? As Nicolae removes the woman from the web, he gently kisses her hand and turns his attention to the priest. I am convinced Iomedae will reward you handsomely for your sacrifice. It appears Nethys has already rewarded me.

2) You are traveling through the forest and you suddenly see three goblins poking at a bound prisoner on the ground. What do you do?

Nasty little goblins what are you up to? Nicolae watches on silently in the shadows to see what transpires. After making sure no greater power is involved, Nicolae confronts the goblins. If he is unable to talk his way out of it, he finishes them off and then expects a reward from the prisoner. I would love to untie your bonds. If only you had something to give me to return my kindness. Nicolae searches through the gear and if he finds something of value offers to release the prisoner if he is willing to make a fair trade.

3) You just returned from successfully defeating a dragon which had been terrorizing the local villages. An orphanage requested that the brave heroes come so that the children can meet them. You accept, but then receive an invitation from the King to join him at a banquet in your honor. You cannot do both, what do you do?

Oh, I just love a grand party and fine dining. I am sure the children will understand. Perhaps I could visit them another day. It is not every day that my companions and I get a chance to receive a reward worthy of our station.

4) How do you expect your character to develop by level 5? Level 10?

Nicolae plans to grow in power as a wizard (conjurer 1-20). He will play innocent and weak for the first few levels attempting to use his fine companions as human shields. Once he grows in power, he will control each encounter either by utility spells or battlefield control. He makes a great addition to any party and plays a more cerebral style (focusing on defeating enemies with his smarts).

5) Who is your favorite villain and your favorite hero from a medieval story and why? Can be historic, from a book, or from a movie. 


Raistlin Majere from Dragonlance for both. I am also a big fan of Gandalf-LOTR (Hero) and Strahd von Zarovich (Ravenloft).

6) Let me know if/how much you have played/read the ToEE - any version including AD&D, 3rd Ed., Return to ToEE, or any video games or novels.

TOEE AD&D as a child. The computer game a few years back. 


7) You are sitting in a tavern when a distraught father runs in and announces that his daughter has been kidnapped by brigands and now they are demanding a ransom or will kill her. He says he has no money to reward the party but hears that the brigands have had much success. What do you do?

Aide my fellow adventurers at tracking down the brigands and saving his daughter. If the father has no gold, maybe the town does and will reward us handsomely.

Nicolae was left on the steps of a Temple to Nethys in Ustalav as an infant. The priest saw his duel race as a sign from Nethys that the child was destined for greatness. The priest raised him as his own son. Nicolae excelled in the classroom and picked up things quicker than the other kids. Even in Ustalav, Nicolae was strange. Because of his success in class and his weird looks, he was picked on daily. As he grew, the bullying increased. He learned how to escape physical confrontation by quickness and wit(REACTIONARY). When things got too bad for him, his father sent him off to Absalom to a school of the arcane. Nicolae found his new school challenging. He was no longer the smartest kid in class. He learned to work hard and gained a thirst for knowledge. He spent hours studying ancient tomes looking for some advantage over his classmates.
After graduating from the university, he decided to seek out ancient writings to continue his studies. He had a desire to grow in power.Like the deity he was taught to revere, he holds magic above all. He recently read a tome about a possible Temple that holds ancient power and has left to investigate.

Nicolae is a complex individual. He is an extremely loyal friend, but takes awhile to get to know people. He is interested in anything magic and ancient writings. He is a team player and likes to control situation around him including the battlefield. Due to his upbringing and poor charisma, he is often impatient and speaks rashly when put out or if he doesn't like someone.

I have played role playing games since AD&D back in the early 80s. I have the ability to post multiple times and day. I have an IPhone 4s and IPad2 to have access to posting 24 hours a day. I played the original TOEE as a child and fell in love with the scenario. Next to Ravenloft, it is my favorite module of all time. I do not remember much of the details so that will not be a problem. My submission was put together quickly due to having a bunch of classes this semester. I just took my last test and have graduated so that will not be a problem in the future. You can check out my posting history, RPing ability, and technical Pathfinder knowledge from my other toons including Rorgrim in Tark Skulls and shackles. I believe the GM has the final word and am more interested in fun and RPing than arguing rules. I think I would make a great addition to this group. Nicolae will be a team member, but with an inner struggle of thirst for power. Do you remember Raistlin Majere? ;)

Why did your father decide to send you to far off Absalom rather than the conjuring specializing schools in Korvosa and Cheliax?

Nicolae's father had a connection at the most prestigious magic university in the Inner Sea region of Golarian, Arcanamirium. He himself had attended the university in Absalom with the current archdean of the school, Lady Darchana of House Madinaniand, and they had remained close personal friends. He knew his former classmate and friend would push Nicolae to reach his full potential. Though friends with his father, the archdean worked Nicolae harder than any of the other students and secretly made sure a certain tome that had been hidden for over a century fell into his hands.

Where did he get the tome? Who wrote it and what did it say?

Nicolae was provided access the the university's secret library. While other students spent their free time on dates and social events, Nicolae developed a thirst for power during hours of study in this library. His devotion to Nethys grew here as well. It was alone, while reading an ancient tome, that he made the commitment to be the most powerful wizard in all of Golarian. The tome was written by the Archmage Nex. It was the private journal of the archmage and included many of his spells. It also discussed the arcane elixirs he used to extend his life. Much of the tome was beyond Nicolae's ability to comprehend. It was in this ancient journal he first heard about the old abandoned temple. He took the book with him after graduation. A map in the book pointed out the location of the Temple.