"You should gather your folks together then. They'll likely want to hear what that young man has to say." says Artur. "The creatures are dead, but we have bigger fish to fry, as the saying goes. While you're doing that, I'm going to go make a map of the area. I'll be back shortly."
As he goes out, Artur slides a rectangle of metal from one of the side compartments of his pack. it has an odd metal "stick" attached to it. Detaching the stick, Artur starts heading towards the best vantage point to get a good view of the city. He then proceeds to wave the stick around above one side of the metal plate with motions that match his view of the terrain.
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
Action 1:
Veratash accepted the healing anyone offered, but he felt proud enough not to ask for some.
@DM: should I be keeping track of my HP to know how to reply to offers of healing? I'm not BTW.
Action 2:
Replying to Nyd, Veratash nodded at his comment. Maybe we talk more tomorrow, when I have had some sleep., he said, still feeling his head pounding as though it had served as an orc tribe percussion instrument. He continues the walk trying his best to keep up, since he didn't want to be left behind.
Action 3:
Veratash ignored the talk about hunting. For some reason he hated the word now.
Action 4:
Veratash took a quick liking of Sandar's initiative. He could not even imagine what a hot bath would feel like. When he asked what he wanted to eat, he could not imagine himself hungry. He had been searching for food out of habit alone and did not even remember what hunger felt like. He accepted the cheese with bread while the bath was being prepared.
Being tended to made Veratash let his guard down. Out of his own character, when Anna asked him about his origin, he just started talking.
I am originally from Adar in Sarlona. I left my family of gem cutters and jewelers hoping to find an Eberron Dragonshard, which would be very valuable to me., he said in a torrent of words. I joined an expedition which two scholars, Sorashana and Thakashtai, who had similar goals as mine. We left Sharn with the destination of a mansion in Zarash'ak, in order to meet someone. That's the last I properly remember before being chased by some bad people., he finishes realizing he said much more than the girl had originally asked. He didn't wait whether she would ask another question.
After eating the cheese and bread, he got into his bath. The hot water relaxed his muscles so much that he quickly fell asleep. Waking up with his head submerged, he finished his bath and rented a room. He tossed 1 gold piece to Sandar and refused to take any change. After being assigned a room, Veratash sank deep into sleep. For the first time in two weeks, the kalashtar enjoyed a sleep with peaceful memories of his quori spirit.
Subtracting 1gp. Use up all healing dice as necessary.
I wrote thinking that Veratash would get the first opportunity to sleep, probably missing out on other events in that night.
"You should gather your folks together then. They'll likely want to hear what that young man has to say." says Artur. "The creatures are dead, but we have bigger fish to fry, as the saying goes. While you're doing that, I'm going to go make a map of the area. I'll be back shortly."
Sandar cocked his head, "OK, I see that you are all worried here but getting the folks together is not that easy. It's not like we have a Sivis messaging system or anything like that."
He thought for a moment, "Maybe a few of the farmhands will show up here tonight so we'll let them know. I'll send out a rider in the morning to let the rest of them know so everyone can meet here tomorrow night."
@DM: should I be keeping track of my HP to know how to reply to offers of healing? I'm not BTW.
I'll keep track of your HP. Just assume that you're still hurt.
Veratash wrote:
Subtracting 1gp. Use up all healing dice as necessary.
Veratash wrote:
I wrote thinking that Veratash would get the first opportunity to sleep, probably missing out on other events in that night.
I'll give the rest of the crew time to post before moving things forward but I have nothing planned for this evening so you will all wake up tomorrow morning fully rested.
Questions?
Game on!
MECHANICS
Everyone is doing good job remembering to write in past tense so thanks.
@Veratash: please use 'quotes' around your speech. Thanks.
Nyd frowned and shook his head, a gesture learned from early trainers.
"If necessary, I volunteer myself to pass messages to the outing farmers. I suspect, however, that we would get a stronger response if we had more certain information."
Thanks. I kinda stole it from the mark of making ability to have a gadget that gives you a cantrip and my mind kinda went....places. I almost took the alchemy route, which would have given me a little warforged with a jetpack, but ultimately I decided that I like the spells from Artillerist more.
"Sounds good Sandar. I've drawn up a map of the valley here and I'll explain some things when we get everyone together, but for now we should have some sort of patrols in the area. Preferably someone who knows how to track and is good with spotting unusual signs of passage."
"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm still fairly hurt and down on resources. I am going to sleep shortly, but first let me give you this:" with that, Artur withdraws the rectangle from his pack and shows Sandar how to turn it on.
When it is activated, it projects a 3d holographic topographical map of the valley, drawn by someone who clearly has experience with terrain maps.
Having presented Sandar with his gift, Artur says "I'm going to sleep now. Wake me if anything happens." Artur then goes up to his room, removes his boots, belt, pack, and jacket, and then immediately goes to sleep.
Female Half-Orc (Mark of Finding) Ranger (Horizon Walker) 5
Double posting is what happens when I forget to refresh the page before updating.
I quite like the way you're organising this, makes it easier to reference, and the multi action updates keep things moving.
Action 1
”We’d best head back to Bull’s Hollow. I’m sure Veratash will be more able to answer questions once he’s rested.”
Action 2
Kela keeps a silent watch as the group returns to Bull’s Hollow, wary of any more threats given the injured state of their party.
Action 4
Kela sighed as she took a seat in the inn and laid her weapons down. With Artur gone to create his map she explained to Sandar ”The man we brought back with us seems to be in some trouble of his own. He thinks he lost those chasing him, but I don’t think he has enough skill to say for sure. Honestly as concerned as Artur is, I don’t think this a matter that requires a gathering. There’s nothing that indicates these hunter’s would have any interest in Bull’s Hollow, just Veratash. Ask folk to be more alert to strangers passing through, and pass word onto me. “ and then very quietly ”I’d actually encourage folk to talk about where Veratash is, that way trouble will come directly to me.” then Kela returned to her normal speech with a groan ”I’m going to have go all the way out there again tomorrow and see if I can backtrack were Veratash came from, and if there are any signs of those hunter’s who are after him.”
Kela stopped Veratash before he made it to his room ”Sandar, he’s getting a secure room right? One or no windows, not on the ground floor. Veratash, is it alright if I double check it before you go to sleep? I’ll be right outside in case anything happens”
Kela will sleep out the front of Veratash’s room. If able she’ll use her immovable rod to block up the window (possibly using it brace a table up against it).
AC 18 | Str +0, Dex +6, Con +1, Int -1, Wis +1, Cha +6 | Initiative +3 | Passive Perception 14 & Insight 14, Darkvision 60 ft
Tharivol looked relieved after Kela spoke. "Thanks Kela. I thought I missed something. Artur is the smart one, so I usually defer to his judgment. But, I didn't hear anything that would warrant a village gathering either."
Flashing a winning smile, "...unless of course everyone wants to hear me perform. That would warrant a village gathering. Right Anne? Where should be have the concert?"
As the group prepares to sleep for the night, Nyd notes Kela's intentions. "Kela, I do not have the observation skills you undoubtedly have, as they were not in my purview, but I have the advantage of not sleeping as you no doubt have to do."
Nyd pauses and considers how he should be phrasing things. "What I am trying to say is that I will be available if you need me. Too many guards might be unwise, but I will be alert if you need assistance."
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
Action 4:
Veratash replied to Kela with a grunt. Unable to discern what it meant, she realized that he had gotten in and left his door open and by the time she went in to confirm whether she could check his room, he had already fallen asleep with one foot still hanging out of the bed.
[OOC]Double posting is what happens when I forget to refresh the page before updating.
I quite like the way you're organising this, makes it easier to reference, and the multi action updates keep things moving.
No worries; things like double posting happens. We all just need to be flexible enough to fix things and move the game along.
I'm glad the pace of the game seems adequate and that the 'multiple actions' is not confusing, which it can be at first. However, as you pointed out, it is a very good tool to keep 'things happening'.
Artur, take inspiration for that last scene! Good job on 'Iron Man' / 'Batman'. :)
I'll be recapping and moving things along later today.
AC 18 | Str +0, Dex +6, Con +1, Int -1, Wis +1, Cha +6 | Initiative +3 | Passive Perception 14 & Insight 14, Darkvision 60 ft
Who is your Leader?
Action 1
"Ten days? Sorry, honey. I cannot commit to that. I'll play tonight and tomorrow night. Then, we'll see. And, you're always welcome to dance while I play." The minstrel replied to the eager girl.
Action 2
In the evening, Tharivol entertained the inn with a low key performance. Mostly, he tried out some of his new material that he's been working on.
Performance with lute:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 231d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 with intuition total:23 + 1d4 ⇒ 23 + (2) = 25
OOC: My post got deleted. I'll rewrite it in a bit...
Yeah, be careful with that. I think it's been said but, if you're writing anything substantial, it is best to write it in a word processor and then copy it onto the post window.
The site also has the annoying habit of breaking down too often for my taste where you'll be locked out from a few hours to a couple of days. :(
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
Action 4:
Veratash wakes up well rested, although still aching all over his body. The gentle sound of rain made him lazy, but his father had trained him to always get up when waking up. A worker man must always be on his feet if he can., he remembered hearing. Before anything, the young kalashtar made his bed and organized his things. It was only then that he remembered where he was and how he had gotten there.
Sitting on his now made bed, Veratash started putting together the pieces of his mind. "I have to go back for the others!", he exclaimed unwillingly. Making plans to go back to Zarash’ak, he decided he would need to resupply before going. But first, breakfast. Getting up, he saw a floating bar at the window, but paid it no mind. He set out to fill his stomach until it couldn't fit anything anymore.
Downstairs, he saw people gathered around what looked like a miniature town. He helped himself to porridge, bread and butter. He also asked Anna whether they had any ham leftover from last night.
Action 5:
Hearing the talk of birds, Veratash looked warily to the skies. All the color of his face vanished as he realized what they meant. All the people in town were in danger. He decided to leave immediately, to draw the hunters away from that friendly village. He immediately asked where he could buy some clothes and asked for travel rations. He looked for Kela and said "I thank you for your help yesterday. But I must be on the move. Can you tell me the safest road to Zarash’ak?"
I'm changing my Magecraft device from my dragonmark to be a wand that produces Mold Earth.
As Veritash stands up to begin to excuse himself, Artur places his hand gently yet firmly on Veritash's shoulder and says quietly to him "Do you really think that people that would keep you the way they did would just ignore the people who helped you? When you're ready to talk, I'm here to listen, but you need to man the f*** up and face your fears. Running and hiding means you'll only die tired."
Removing his hand, Artur adds "You're in a war now, whether you like it or not. Your only choices are fight or die. Me, I'd recommend fighting."
Without waiting for a response, Artur turns to Sandar and asks at a normal tone "What's for breakfast? I'm famished." and leaves Veritash to consider things.
Female Half-Orc (Mark of Finding) Ranger (Horizon Walker) 5
Action 1
Kela rolled her eyes, given Tharivol’s preoccupation with himself it’s no wonder he needs another to do his thinking for him. ”Her name’s Anna Tharivol”[B]
Action 3
[B]”That is a useful ability Nyd, I will be sure to call for your aid in the unlikely case of trouble during the night.” Kela replied in a friendly manner.
Action 4
Kela had enough sleep that night to be better prepared for the day. She did have to spend some time to stretch out the stiffness that came with sleeping in the hall. She responded to Sandar’s comment with mild curiosity, the map is pretty enough certainly. But Kela’s walked all of it after all these years, and knows more than any map can. ”It’s not bad at all”
Action 5
Anna’s words pull Kela’s attention, and she responded with surprise ”Those sound like black herons! What could they be doing out here?” But her attention switched as Veratash stated his intentions to leave, and Artur’s intense reaction.
”I appreciate the thanks Veratash, but my duty is not yet done. I can aid you in reaching Zarash’ak, but I need the full story of your hunter’s first and a chance to deal with them before they cause more problems.” Assuming Veratash is willing to talk Kela mostly listens. She is particular in asking questions about the number of hunters, their weaponry, how close he believes they are, do they carry any recognizable symbols to identify their tribe.
A little later (assuming nothing really bad is revealed in her chat with Veratash) Kela caught Artur after his breakfast for a talk. ”Artur, could I have a word? It sounds like you’re seeing a greater threat here than I am. There’s definitely something unusual here, but a group of hunter’s after one person does not sound like a war to me, nor a great threat to Bull’s Hollow. What here has you so concerned?”
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
Action 5:
Hearing Kela, Veratash took a step back shaking his head. "You don't understand...", he said. Clearly nervous, he completed "When these birds appear, they are not far behind. We have one hour at the best and a day at the worst."
The kalashtar was clearly distressed. He unconsciously reached inside his pocket and seemed to be clenching something.
"Sure Kela. Let's go talk." Leading her outside, Artur says "I'm concerned that no one else here is worried. Here is what I see: you have an undefended settlement with no trained guardians, except for you."
Exhaling, Artur continues "The people who took that boy did so for a specific purpose. They didn't immediately kill him, but instead tortured him, unless I miss my mark. He then escaped somehow, assuming they didn't intentionally let him go. They then tracked and stalked him for days without rest. Does that really sound like a group that lacks either organization or the will to engage a small settlement like yours? I'm guessing that we have a day or two at most, before they arrive in force to take him back, and they won't be asking."
Artur again pauses and then says "There's a less than 0 percentage chance that they'll just take everyone here, and I want everyone to understand and be ready for that."
"In that case we should begin immediate preparations."
Suiting actions to words, Nyd immediately casts Mage Armor on himself. Which also raises Arcane Ward.
"Vertash, I noticed a lack of armor on yourself. If you wish I can use magic to armor you as well."If he says yes, Nyd will cast Mage Armor on Veratash, if not, Nyd will nod and proceed to collect his Bag of Holding, which contains most of Nyd's gear.
"Would you know the nature of your hunters? More beast such as those yesterday, or something different?"
Combat to me is only there to present the PCs with an interesting and 'challenging' scene.
I'm not out to kill PCs but it has happened in some of my previous games. I will almost always allow the player to prepare a new PC and continue with the game if he/she so desires.
There are also combats which are just too much for the PCs at a particular time and the best course of action is to flee, surrender, or something other than fight. There's usually another chance after you are better prepared (more experience (levels), additional equipment, different circumstances, etc.). Hopefully, my descriptions of how the combat is evolving will be enough for you guys to reconsider a straight out fight but you can always ask OOC. Again, I have no story if you guys are dead. :)
For what it's worth I have never had a TPK in my PBP games.
Another thing I do is that if an encounter 'calls' for a mummy but you guys are level 7th then I will just upgrade the mummy (normally CR 3) to a 'better mummy'.
I personally feel that only having combats "appropriate" to a group of players removes stakes from the world. There SHOULD be combats you can't take. There should be combats that players way overpower; otherwise, I don't have an idea how you would know how powerful your character is.
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
While Veratash didn't object to Nyd's offer of protective spell, he still felt very uncomfortable. "Thank you very much for wanting to stand with me. But the people in this village didn't ask for any of this. We should move to another place so they are safe when the hunters come.", he said, relieved he wasn't alone.
"The creatures are following me. So if I move somewhere else, then the village should be safe.", he said a little unsure. Remembering the questionings about the hunters themselves, Veratash said "Well, I didn't see anything in particular, except maybe a tattoo?", he said making an effort. "I didn't understand what they were saying.", he finished.
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
Action 3:
"Thank you, Sandar", Veratash replied the compliment. Unwililng to tell his whole life story, he just added "I didn't do anything to them... I think. My memory of the last few weeks are not very clear to me. Some parts feel like a dream. But I do know I escaped some underground laboratory where they were doing.... experiments to me. I was with an expedition when I was captured, and I don't know their whereabouts.", he finished with a sad face.
One thing didn't make sense to him, though. How was the owner of a mansion in a capital city related to a tribe of near savage huntsmen? That was a question for another time. For now, he waited eagerly for his saviors to agree to fight outside of town. He had never realized that he had no problem putting his own life in front of others'. Maybe he was worthy of the kalashtar Path of Light, after all.
Action 5:
Veratash was eager to draw the attention of the hunters away from the village, and went for the door as soon as he heard the birds croaking.
Artur began to answer Sandar's question when he heard the birds begin making noise outside.
"I thought we'd have more time" muttered Artur quietly to himself before then turning to the people gathered. "If you have any weapons, you should get them." said Artur as he stood up and walked upstairs to get his gear. Tromping back down moments later, Artur said. "Well, let's go outside and hear them demand to return Veritash."
Female Half-Orc (Mark of Finding) Ranger (Horizon Walker) 5
Action 2
Kela replied to Artur “Just because they are determined, and have a mean streak, doesn’t mean they’re stupid. A band of hunter’s, likely five or six people, are not going to attack an unfamiliar settlement of over two hundred people. Their determination makes that even less likely as they would significantly delay their hunt, and possibly lose Veratash completely.” Kela finished the short conversation still confident in her own reading of the situation ”Sure there’s a chance that they’ll still do it, but the best way to avoid that is get get Veratash out of here, and draw the hunter’s out before they reach Bull’s Hollow. I can’t support remaining here to fight, that will only guarantee that everyone here will be in danger. Veratash will have more information, let’s hear his story properly for now.” Kela returned inside the inn and her seat at the table.
Action 3 “Alright, given the short amount of time we have, I’ll take Veratash and head out out now. If any of you are willing to come along I’d welcome the aid. There’s a defensible position not far, and back the way Veratash came from, so we should draw the hunter’s out before they reach Bull’s Hollow.” With a better understanding of the current situation Kela laid out her plan confidently. Her gear still with her from yesterday she is ready to move in moments and sticks close to Veratash as he walked out of the inn.
Action 5 ”If some of those heron’s remain behind, you might see some trouble from these hunters. But I expect they’ll find us first and we should be able to handle it just fine.” Kela said reassuringly to Sandar as she leaves. ”Keeping weapons close would indeed be wise, just in case the worst should happen.”
OOC: I'll wait a bit to give everyone a chance to post.
@Kela: where are you going? Where/what is this 'defensible position'? Like I said, it's your world so feel free to 'invent' something that makes sense and is nearby.
Nyd has already gotten his gear together and is ready to follow Kela.
"A defensible position. Sounds like a better start then our battle outside of...Artur, the name of that town was never reported to me. The one where that...classified event happened."
I have evening plans this night that means I won't be able to post this evening (not that I do often), but I'll be away from computers all night.
"You're assuming that there are only five or six." says Artur. "I'm pretty sure that these" Artur gestures at the herons "are all either familiars or animal companions; I will admit, however, that this is my assumption. I would ask you though: Which of our suppositions will keep the most people safe?"
M Sorcerer lvl 6 [AC13 | Saves -1 0 +5 0 +3 +7 | Per +3]
Veratash, realizing he wasn't being brave, but rather childish, stopped to hear the planning talk. He commented "Artur, sir. Being our strategical leader, I should tell you how I can help.".
He concentrated on a nearby spoon and made it hover over his hand.
Cast Mage Hand
He finally said "Every kalashtar is a psychic, but my abilities are somewhat unique. In short, I have some mild telekinetic abilities, but my strongest suit is that I can mess with others' minds.". He tried to say it in a friendly voice.
AC 18 | Str +0, Dex +6, Con +1, Int -1, Wis +1, Cha +6 | Initiative +3 | Passive Perception 14 & Insight 14, Darkvision 60 ft
After breakfast, Tharivol pulled out his lute to tune and plucked random melodies. Good ears heard similar phrases from last night. These are not the dramas that the minstrel enjoyed, so he feigned disinterest and absentmindedly played his lute for himself.
Between explosive dialogue in the inn, the dragonmarked elf reminisced about the several reasons which caused him to accept Artur's offer. Each of his melodies in progress were written to describe a different lover. One was smoldering. One was hopping and frenetic. Another was relentless repetitions of crescendos.
Female Half-Orc (Mark of Finding) Ranger (Horizon Walker) 5
"Choosing to fight here guarantees that Bull's Hollow will be involved. Drawing the hunter's out before they reach here has a far better chance of preventing that, regardless of the size of the force. The birds are a gift, if they don't follow Veratash out, then we'll know Bull's Hollow is their current target. But we need to leave first to know that for sure." Kela clearly wants Artur on side, and to trust her assessment, but she has little time to waste "If you still feel that Bull's Hollow is too much at risk, then please stay and defend then while I'm gone."
"Veratash, let's get moving. I'm glad to hear you have some means of defense against them."
When she leaves the village Kela makes sure to walk Veratash right in front of the birds and if they don't follow him out the village she'll turn right around and begin setting up defenses with Artur.
Kela leads whoever is coming back out along the road they traveled yesterday before turning off it and heading up a steep, narrow track. It opens up along the top of the ridge to an overgrown field and a burnt out farmhouse. The low vegetation grants good sightlines, while the ridge limits access and the remains of the stone walls provide cover.
Fabian, thanks for waiting, I was writing this when you posted. If you want a map of the area, I'm pretty sure I have suitable one in my map stash, but won't be able to find it until this evening.
Fabian, thanks for waiting, I was writing this when you posted. If you want a map of the area, I'm pretty sure I have suitable one in my map stash, but won't be able to find it until this evening.
OOC: yeah, send me what map you have and I'll see what I can get.
AC 18 | Str +0, Dex +6, Con +1, Int -1, Wis +1, Cha +6 | Initiative +3 | Passive Perception 14 & Insight 14, Darkvision 60 ft
Action 3
Tharivol hummed the tunes that he was developing. He examined every inch of the farmhouse making several elf size bolt holes. When that was done, he struck up a conversation with the psychic. "So, you really don't remember why they're hunting you? No clue? Are you a fugitive of justice? Did you murder someone?"
Action 4
Perception:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (19) + 4 = 23
When the noise indicated imminent danger, Tharivol wiped his eyes with a pinch of talc and a small sprinkling of powdered silver. And, with a Elven trigger word, he could see invisible. He gripped his longbow and nocked an arrow.
He readied to release the arrow when his Elven eyes fixed a target.
Ready to attack at 60 feet when his Darkvision removes the disadvantage.
Who wants a 1d8 Bardic Inspiration? Maybe 1 or 2 of you can start with it, and I can save 1 or 2 in case someone needs to make a save to break an ongoing effect.
Once they arrived at Kela's defensible position, Artur pulled the device he had worked on this morning off his belt and began shoring up breaks in the walls of their position by creating pits slightly in front of them.
While he was doing that, he called out to the group "Can one of you see about knocking down any interior walls? We'll want an open area inside to let my turret cover the entire room."
So I'm using Move Earth to pop out 5' chunks in the ground to make trenches and moving that earth in front of the breaks in the walls. Ideally, I'd like to make a trench 5' deep and 10' wide around the entire building and use the earth moved to shore up approaches to the building.
Having created his fortifications, Artur activated his spider turret with the command word "Defend." As he does, each member of the group is covered in a forcefield. "As long as you stay in the building, my turret will protect you."
Female Half-Orc (Mark of Finding) Ranger (Horizon Walker) 5
Sorry, I know I usually post in the evening, but my evening training ran over time and I need to sleep. Did a quick search for an appropriate map, but unfortunately I've got nothing ready to go that has all three key features. Will post before work tomorrow morning.
In Eberron, there are terrors older than the nations of men.
In the depths of the Eldeen Reaches, a chance rescue brings a group of seasoned adventurers together. But this time, the enemy waiting for them is far more sinister than any they've faced before.
In the dark places of the Shadow Marches, the secrets of the Dragon Below are better left undisturbed…
Hello Eberron fans!
I am looking for five PCs to star in a game set in the world of Eberron. The game will be run using D&D 5e Rules.
The PBP will be run a little bit differently than most.
Game format:
General
Players and GM post on the Discussion tab leaving the Gameplay tab for the archive of the turn recaps where all the information such as OOC information, maps, pictures, health status, etc. is put in a chapter-like post.
Game and turns
The game will be run this way: I will post a turn recap on the Discussion tab (and Gameplay tab for archive purposes) and you will all respond to it on the Discussion tab. I expect you all to write at least one to two paragraphs per turn recap, which I aim to post every day.
I will then post a turn recap with all your responses incorporated and will describe the results, add something to it setting up a new situation where your input is needed, and then wait for your responses again on the Discussion tab. These are for turn recaps; however I check the boards a few times per day and questions or small comments/actions will be posted promptly on the Discussion tab.
Posting
I expect the vast part of your responses in character; if it is not then please add OOC in front of any comment, question, etc. (or you may use the ‘ooc comment’ format.)
I strongly encourage you to involve other PCs and NPCs in your posts by ‘tagging’ them (asking them questions, requesting them to do something, etc.); this gets the ‘roleplaying juices’ flowing and makes for a much better game.
Actions 1?, Actions 2?, WHAT?
The turn recap format allows for the roleplaying of different scenes at the same time; I’ll denote this by breaking up the turn recap with ‘Actions 1?’, ‘Actions 2?’, etc. where PC input is desired or required. This playing more than one scene at a time can be done as long as the results of Actions 1? do not affect (or significantly affect) the setup of Actions 2?. For example, the PCs may be discussing what to cook for dinner in ‘Actions 1?’ while also traveling the next day under ‘Actions 2?’.
Please see this page (game in progress) for a sample of the game format. There you may see what my intention is with regards to gameplay, use of maps, how combat is handled, etc.
If you have any questions on the game format, please do not hesitate to ask.
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Campaign:
I will be running a homebrew game ‘loosely’ based on the Dragon Below Series by Don Bassingthwaite. I will tailor the campaign to the PCs so we are not following a script. However, I do need the set up to ‘more-or-less’ similar.
On that vein, I need the following with regards to PCs:
PC1: needs to be a kalashtar; this PC will be an escapee from the Shadow Marches.
PC2: needs to be tied to the Gatekeeper druidic tradition; could be druid, ranger, or barbarian; and could be orc, half-orc, or human. This PC will be ‘living’ in a village in the Eldeen Reaches.
Other three PCs: no real requirements although the game will touch on the ancient Dhakaani Empire and their fight against the creatures from Xoriat so a goblinoid PC is very suitable (i.e., hobgoblin dirge speaker from the Kech Volaar or hobgoblin martial-type from the Heirs of Dhakaan). These other three PCs will be visiting their ‘friend’ (PC2) in the Eldeen Reaches (or we’ll find another suitable plot hook to get them all there when the escapee (PC1) comes to town).
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Character selection will NOT be first come first serve, and we will take time to develop characters. The game will have action as well as problem solving so a good mix of characters is recommended.
I am looking for "roleplayers" whose posts are NOT a one sentence reply. All players are expected to post AT LEAST ONCE PER DAY so if you can't meet that schedule please do not bother applying to the game.
If you’ve made it this far then pat yourself in the back because your attention span is far longer than most. Seriously, if this sounds like a game for you, then please post a character with the following sections: a) appearance, b) background, and c) personality. Please make the characters interesting, the strong and silent types just don't cut it in this type of game.
Just so you can start thinking about the crunch part (some people work this way), here are some guidelines: Eberron races, 27-point buy, 5th level, magic items to be discussed once PCs are selected. However, please be reminded that PC selection will be based on the ‘fluff’ and not the ‘crunch’.
I will accept PC submittals until Friday October 4, 2019.
I’m sure I missed something here so please ask me questions.
I am certainly going to be submitting a character, and have a question before I do so: would you be willing to allow the mystic? I think it fits well for playing a psychic character.
I am certainly going to be submitting a character, and have a question before I do so: would you be willing to allow the mystic? I think it fits well for playing a psychic character.
I would love to but from what I have read the class is highly unbalanced and will go through some major changes before being released.
I am huge Dark Sun fan and want psionics in play but I am not sure we can incorporate them at this point.
You can certainly 'reskin' a sorcerer (monk?) and say the powers are psionic if you like.
Alright, the Horizon Walker has some of my favorite flavor and combined with the very cool Gatekeeper organization means I stay up late to put an initial application in.
If there's more information you want, ask away, I'm sure to be generating extra details anyways. Also I only know what's in the 5e Eberron book, if there's some extra info I should be aware of from past editions, please let me know.
Name: Kela Tharkan
Race: Half-Orc (Mark of Finding)
Class: Ranger (Horizon Walker)
While born to House Tharashk in the Shadow Marches Kela found a desire to use her gifts for something greater than the expansion and profit of the House. Inspired by the heroic tales of her ancestors in combating the threat of the daelkyr and preserving the world, she joined the Gatekeepers.
The hard training among the experienced rangers gave Kela experience and skill in addition to the natural talent her dragonmark gifted her. Determined and unrelenting in her training and her clear devotion to the purpose of the Gatekeepers she was soon a full member rather than a trainee.
While she began her work hunting down aberrations within her homelands, for the past few years Kela has lived within Eldeen Reaches. She was sent here to exchange knowledge and preserve bonds between the different members of the Gatekeepers. Kela's enjoyed her time here, she's made friends and learnt much from the locals.
If there's more information you want, ask away, I'm sure to be generating extra details anyways. Also I only know what's in the 5e Eberron book, if there's some extra info I should be aware of from past editions, please let me know.
Thanks for your interest!
Obviously, the more details about your PC the better.
If you have access to old Eberron books (3.5), there's information about the druidic traditions (and the Gatekeepers) in just about in all of them.
If you can, take a look at Faiths of Eberron (general Gatekeeper tradition) and Player's Guide to Eberron which has a prestige class called Gatekeeper Mystagogue. While we are not using prestige classes, the fluff in those references is really good.
My next thought was warlock (specifically a reflavored great old one warlock) since they get telepathy and have a "different" feeling spellcasting system.
I am one of those people who finds that I build my characters on both sides at the same time: I work on the crunch and let that build the flavor, which feeds into the crunch and so on.
I am thinking of going Kalashtar indeed. I read through their entry, but the bonus action thing is a bit wierd for their telepathy.
I'll have to reread the celestial patron. If I can't get it to gel in my mind, I might leave the Kalashtar to others (or if someone has a really strong Kalashtar concept) and look at something else like a changeling or dragonmarked character.
I am thinking of going Kalashtar indeed. I read through their entry, but the bonus action thing is a bit wierd for their telepathy.
I'll have to reread the celestial patron. If I can't get it to gel in my mind, I might leave the Kalashtar to others (or if someone has a really strong Kalashtar concept) and look at something else like a changeling or dragonmarked character.
The bonus action would only come into play in combat (or other time-constrained activity of which I can't think of any right now).
At all other times, telepathic communications would be 'normal' (whatever that means). :)
But feel free to come up with something else. The important thing is to have a PC that you really want to play.
Dotting and a question... I've loved the idea of a double bladed scimitar wielder since I read about them in Wayfinders. Would an elven Eldritch Knight with the Revenant Blade feat be acceptable? Or a Changeling Bard? I'd love to combine the two, but the double weapon is Elf only.
Dotting and a question... I've loved the idea of a double bladed scimitar wielder since I read about them in Wayfinders. Would an elven Eldritch Knight with the Revenant Blade feat be acceptable? Or a Changeling Bard? I'd love to combine the two, but the double weapon is Elf only.
Valenar elves (those that use the double-bladed scimitars) are full of Eberron flavor so I am fine with you being a Valenar elf eldritch knight with the Revenant Blade Feat.
If you want to be a bard, Valenar also have very flavorful bards called Keepers of the Past.
Keepers of the Past
The Keepers of the Past are bards and clerics who determine which ancestor will guide a newborn Tairnadal elf through life. In Tairnadal religion, each elf is duty-bound to honor and emulate his or her patron ancestor. The Tairnadal believe that these warrior ancestors, known as Spirits of the Past, can live again in the present if their deeds are recreated. Elves who share a common ancestor will compete with each other to become the perfect embodiment of their patron. The Spirits of the Past are neutral. The favored weapon of the Keepers is the double scimitar.
Vosh appears to be a man in his mid-to-late 20's, with black hair, deeply tanned skin, and heterochromatic eyes. He stands just over 6', with broad shoulders and little body fat.
Background:
Unlike the majority of Kalashtar, Vosh did not join with his Quori, Sk'ree'torgn, until he reached majority, nor was his joining planned.
Sk'ree'torgn, who was being actively hunted by Dal'Quor agents, didn't have any other options and so offered itself up to Vosh, who was a veteran of The Last War.
When Sk'ree'torgn made his offer to Vosh, Vosh was still in the grips of mourning over the loss of his daughter, who fell off one of the towers in Sharn to her death.
And so an agreement was struck, in exchange for a place to stay, Sk'ree'torgn would allow Vosh to see his daughter in his dreams.
So the two began a shadow war against agents of the Dal'Quar. Both sides had victories, with the most recent victory going to the Dal'Quar, who nearly managed to kill them in the Shadow Marches. Luckily they were able to fake their death, but they were forced to leave the Shadow Reaches by foot.
Personality:
Sk'ree'torgn is a scholar and psionic being of some note, who has some information regarding several of the strongholds of the Dal'Quor in the Dreaming Dark.
Vosh is a pragmatic man who tends to prefer the most direct solution to any problem. He speaks little, and is more than willing to allow Sk'ree'torgn to speak for him when necessary.
A couple of things about kalashtars, which will affect your background story and perhaps even your personality:
- kalashtar do not dream. Kalashtar sleep, but they don’t connect to the plane of dreams as other creatures do. Instead, their minds draw
from the memories of their otherworldly spirit while they sleep.
- kalashtar are born with their quori spirit; they inherit the spirit from their father (if boy) or mother (if girl)
- their quori spirit is NOT a separate entity; The kalashtar can’t directly communicate with their quori spirits. A kalashtar might
experience this relationship as a sense of instinct and inspiration, drawing on the memories of the spirit when they dream.
The mind of a kalashtar is a synthesis of human soul and quori spirit. The quori spirit empowers its host, granting mental power and long life. The quori is nor an independent presence; it is an integrated part of the kalashtar's personality. At the same time, the quori soul has memories that are completely alien to a human. The visions of its former life in Dal Quor might range from a battle against a tsucora horde on the Field of Forgotten Anger or the smell of a color or the taste of a sound. In Dal Quor, the impossible is not only possible-it's commonplace. A kalashtar must maintain the delicate balance between her two inner forces or risk going mad.
Thanks for the advice on sources Fabian. Should be able to get access to some of them and add detail to Kela's backstory over the weekend
Great!
I know many PCs come to their own once you start playing them but start thinking about the 'background' bits (personality, ideal, bond, flaw). Add quirks, people, places, etc. Don't be limited by your background, but it is a good way to start. Sometimes rolling on the tables can yield some interesting PCs.
@Fabian, I like the fluff around the Keepers and think I'll go that route. I'd like to go with the College of Swords, and was wondering if there are any Fighting Styles that you would allow as thematic to include on their list? With a double scimitar both Dueling and Two Weapon Fighting don't actually do anything beneficial, which is fine if that's the way it is - I still like the rest of the class/concept.
The idea is that his patron ancestor was one of the founding warriors of their society; an almost impossible patron to "perfect". The responsibility and weight of this requirement - as well as its difficulty - is going to be one of the primary motivators for him. Whenever he uses an inspiration on Blade Flourish it will be either channeling his ancestor, or attempting to surpass him.
@Fabian, I like the fluff around the Keepers and think I'll go that route. I'd like to go with the College of Swords, and was wondering if there are any Fighting Styles that you would allow as thematic to include on their list? With a double scimitar both Dueling and Two Weapon Fighting don't actually do anything beneficial, which is fine if that's the way it is - I still like the rest of the class/concept.
Let's just use the Two Weapon Fighting and assume your 'second blade' is your 'second weapon'.
River of Sticks wrote:
The idea is that his patron ancestor was one of the founding warriors of their society; an almost impossible patron to "perfect". The responsibility and weight of this requirement - as well as its difficulty - is going to be one of the primary motivators for him. Whenever he uses an inspiration on Blade Flourish it will be either channeling his ancestor, or attempting to surpass him.
Sounds great.
If you can get a hold of it, the Player's Guide to Eberron has a nice writeup on Valenar elves and even a prestige class called Revenant Blade from which you can get lots of excellent fluff.
I'm feeling some impostor syndrome, but my Eberron craving needs release and I may have more spare time in the future.
I'm slightly inclined towards build a changeling or a warforged, but just in case, would the plot be more suitable for a faithful and respectable member of a Dragonmarked House, or a renegade one using dragonmarks for personal profit?
I see a Ranger, Fighter, and Warlock. Could the party maybe use something like a Forge Cleric?
There's plenty of room as no one has been selected yet. I put the deadline a few days away to make sure everyone that is interested has a chance to put something together (consult fluff, etc.).
I like to reply back to individual persons who show interest but that does not mean they will get to play.
I'm not trying to sound mean or anything, but the reality is that space is limited on these games.
Don't worry about filling in or balancing the party, just make something that you really/really want to play.
I usually say that I'll run a game with five fighters or five wizards if the PCs are interesting, but this is not the case here. At a minimum, I do need PC1 and PC2 as explained on the first post. But there could be more than one kalashtar escapee (PC1) and more than one PC tied to the Gatekeepers (PC2).
I'm feeling some impostor syndrome, but my Eberron craving needs release and I may have more spare time in the future.
I'm slightly inclined towards build a changeling or a warforged, but just in case, would the plot be more suitable for a faithful and respectable member of a Dragonmarked House, or a renegade one using dragonmarks for personal profit?
Either of the above four concepts would work. I'm assuming you want neither the roles of PC1 nor PC2, which is fine.
Therefore, make a PC that finds itself in the Eldeen Reaches with a taste for adventure and you should be set. As stated, the initial hook is for this group of PCs to be visiting an old friend (PC2) but you could be 'tied' to someone who is visiting this old friend. We'll iron out these details once PCs are selected.
What are your thoughts on the inclusion of the artificer class? I know that it's still in playtest, but it seems more balanced than the mystic, and is setting very appropriate.
What are your thoughts on the inclusion of the artificer class? I know that it's still in playtest, but it seems more balanced than the mystic, and is setting very appropriate.
Don't worry about asking questions; I enjoy this part of gaming very much.
Artificers? YES!
Go ahead and use the artificer from UA58, which I think it's the one here.
One caveat though, which really goes for everything 5e Eberron. As you may know, Wizards is releasing an official Eberron Setting Sourcebook on November 19, 2019. This book will override the information presented in Wayfinder's Guide to Eberron (which will get updated to the new rules) so everyone (including your artificer) 'may' have their PCs adjusted in a few weeks.
So here's my idea for my artificer. I didn't include where he met his friend he's visting in the Reaches, as I thought I would leave that to a discussion should I be selected.
Anyway, without further ado, I present:
Artur D'Cannith
Appearance:
Artur is a 5'4", skinny, Human male with slicked back hair and Navy-Blue eyes behind horn-rimmed glasses.
Artur dresses in functionary clothing with many pockets when not wearing armor as an adventurer.
Backstory:
Before the Last War, Artur is was a stereotypical forgetful professor, often forgetting to eat, sleep, or clean himself on a regular basis.
Artur was recruited to the Cyrian army for his technical expertise, and assigned to a unit that worked with Cannith's newest creations: The Warforged.
Artur was made to undergo basic soldier training along with the Warforged, and this changed him as a person.
When the Warforged were deployed to the battlefield, Artur asked to go with him. By this point, Artur had become a focused, orderly, and driven young man.
Artur was prompted to Captain and put in charge of a company of Warforged that was sent to serve under the banner of Karrnath. During the course of the war, Artur's unit was honored by the Karrnathi military for being willing to take on any mission and succeed.
Then, however, The Mourning occured.
Artur's unit was returning to Korth when they heard the news; unlike most of his countrymen, Artur did not really take the loss of his country as hard as they did. He had long since ceased considering himself a Cyrian, and only marginally considered himself a member of House Cannith.
Unsure of what to do with himself after peace was declared, Artur moved to Sharn and took up residence and began hiring himself out to as a troubleshooter and adventurer.
Good start. As I posted above, start thinking about his personality bits so we can all get a better idea on the type of character Artur will be.
Just a minor point, warforged were extensively used by Cyre and Breland, less so by Aundair (phantom and arcane knights) and Thrane (paladins and zealots). Very (very) few warforged units were used by Karrnath due to their extensive use of undead soldiers.
It would make much more sense for Artur to have served under Cyre or Breland but it's not necessary for you to change that.
Okay, I am not super attached to Karrnath; I basically just picked one of the 5 kingdoms. Let's assume it's Breland instead of Karrnath then.
As for his personality, Artur is a serious, no-nonsense sort of man when on the job. He prefers to get in, do the job, and get out, all without actually losing any of his companions.
When he's off the clock, he tends to get caught up in creating new inventions.
Koratana is a male Kalashtar. He’s on the sort side for his species, but jokes that it makes him cheaper to outfit. When not wearing adventuring gear, you will usually find him dressed as a blacksmith, even when he doesn’t have a project on the forge.
Background:
Koratana was the blacksmith for a Kalashtar outpost, making both equipment and armor for others. He was forced to flee the outpost eventually when overrun by <Insert Invaders>. He’s now adventuring to pick-up some new techniques to improve the things he makes and meet back up with another group of Kalashtar.
Personality:
He’s a bit of a perfectionist. He does know the value of haste, but believes it is a sign of poor planning. He knows his work is (was) important, but feels like he could be doing…more.
notes:
Is going to be a Cleric of the Forge, attempting to make the best gear and equipment possible for his people. He is just a little tired of making lock picks though. He’d be an artificer, but the vast majority of the things he makes are mundane. Background is probably Guild Artisan, as it seems to be the closest to what I am aiming for.
While I'm sure there are kalashtars smithies, I find it hard to picture one. I also don't see a kalashtar cleric taking up the forge domain without some really compelling backstory.
Just curious, where are you getting info on the kalashtar and Eberron?
Just curious, where are you getting info on the kalashtar and Eberron?
Honestly, almost entirely from the art of the species among various books of the series. Along with some headcanon of the kalashtar themselves.
While most are drawn in 'civilian' garb or leather armor, there are some kalashtar in heavy armor and many are carrying metal melee weapons. Somebody has to make that stuff, and given that kalashtar are mostly a race in hiding (which might be headcanon) it's probably better that it is made 'in house' so to speak. Particularly the illegal or controlled items (IE thieves tools).
Honestly, I don't get the option to play the class I really want to Soulknife, or Artificer, but the first isn't available and the second seems to be really far along in development for someone else.
Of course I have neigh infinite character ideas, though the most fleshed out one is mechanically pretty weak (Warforged Wizard). I'm not against writing someone else if you think this is too far out.
I'd love to play an Arcane Archer, as another example, but they only get two special arrows per rest, which is pretty low compared to other archetype defining features. The only one really worse is the Samurai.
I've also been thinking on and off about a Rogue (probably an arcane rouge) who is an infiltration expert, getting into places she's not really wanted and taking intelligence, or items.
Because I can go on for ages:
The real problem I have with Kalasthar is the classes they really fit with, psionic classes, don't exist in 5e. And the 5e classes that they have bonuses for are...largely not a huge thematic fit with them. I can see bards and warlocks easily enough, but its a stretch for clerics, druids, and sorcerers.
What is it with Fighter's and Xanathar's anyway? Even the Cavalier is still low usage, though they can still mark even when their special attacks are expended.
I am kind of on a Silver Flame kick recently, thanks to some Eberron fanfiction. I keep coming up with characters designed to piss off the fanatics of the religion. (Example: Shifter Paladin of the Silver Flame, or a Tiefling Warlock whose patron is one of the surviving couatls who helped form the Silver Flame.
Thanks for your insight on what you want to play. This helps out a lot with me providing ideas.
First off, you don't have to play kalashtar. You can make a PC with another race. And don't get hangup about the relative power of a race/class combination. A warforged (envoy) wizard would make a fine PC.
However, if you want to play a kalashtar and psionics classes are not an option, let's try reskinning something that we can say is psionics.
Warlocks and sorcerers come to mind right away. These classes are easily reskninned .
What about a monk? No need to reskin anything and very 'kalashtar' themed.
Arcane rogue: reskin his power to be psionic.
Soul knife?: we can even reskin a monk and make his unarmed attacks be soul knives. As long as the damage is per the monk's table then I would be fine with that.
Hey guys! I just stumbled across these forums while searching for some old dungeon magazine issues for my Roll20 game. I've never played by post before, but I saw this advertisement for an Eberron game and I decided to take the plunge and try my luck. Would you be happy for a complete newbie to throw in an application?
If so, I have a quick question. I love the kalashtar race so I'd really like to throw in for the PC1 spot. What exactly would this character be escaping from within the shadow marches? Are they captives of a specific group/faction, or something else entirely? I'm only asking so that I can put together a reasonable motivation for the character to be in the shadow marches in the first place. Kalashtar are so exotic and unusual, and I like to make sure that I place my character in the world realistically.
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read my post.
Hey guys! I just stumbled across these forums while searching for some old dungeon magazine issues for my Roll20 game. I've never played by post before, but I saw this advertisement for an Eberron game and I decided to take the plunge and try my luck. Would you be happy for a complete newbie to throw in an application?
If so, I have a quick question. I love the kalashtar race so I'd really like to throw in for the PC1 spot. What exactly would this character be escaping from within the shadow marches? Are they captives of a specific group/faction, or something else entirely? I'm only asking so that I can put together a reasonable motivation for the character to be in the shadow marches in the first place. Kalashtar are so exotic and unusual, and I like to make sure that I place my character in the world realistically.
Thanks in advance for taking the time to read my post.
Newbies are welcome!
The reason for you to be in the Shadow Marches is that you are interested how Eberron Dragonshards (found in the Shadow Marches) interact with psionics, specially kalashtar pisonics. You could be a scholar of sorts who 'is invited' to the Shadow Marches or you could be part of the retinue of this 'said scholar'.
The details of your stay and what happened to you in the Shadow Marches will come out in game as flashbacks. I will give you some 'bullet items' necessary for the game and then let you fill in the rest of the story.
Alright then, here's the first of two or more characters I am likely to post today.
Nyd, Warforged Wizard
Appearance:
Nyd is constructed out of many dark materials, including both her wooden armor and her metal parts. This was intended to gives her a menacing appearance, but Nyd tries to counter this by wearing bright colors and using perky tones.
Background:
Nyd was constructed towards the end of the war, partly as an experiment, partly as a desperation play. Nyd was designed initially to be a demon summoner.
Personality:
Nyd really wants two things in life. 1. To be helpful. And 2. Don't summon demons. She is very curious about people, though sometimes they mystify her. 'It's called the Demon Wastes, why would anyone want to summon demons?'
Notes:
Nyd has a connection to the Gatekeepers, or rather, she has heard of them from somewhere and wants to study their wards and other anti-demon, anti-aberration spells. Is probably going to be a Conjuration or Abjuration Wizard.
Not very strong mechanically because all her stat bonuses are in the wrong places for a Wizard.
The reason for you to be in the Shadow Marches is that you are interested how Eberron Dragonshards (found in the Shadow Marches) interact with psionics, specially kalashtar pisonics. You could be a scholar of sorts who 'is invited' to the Shadow Marches or you could be part of the retinue of this 'said scholar'.
The details of your stay and what happened to you in the Shadow Marches will come out in game as flashbacks. I will give you some 'bullet items' necessary for the game and then let you fill in the rest of the story.
More questions?
Game on!
Thanks for the prompt reply and warm welcome! That's plenty of information for me, I've already started working on my concept. I'll be rolling with an Eldritch Knight reskinned as a Psychic Warrior, and my kalashtar will be descended from a Du'ulora quori (using fluff only from the 3.5 players guide to Eberron). He will most likely have been attached to the scholar as some sort of bodyguard type, expect more details to come.
The reason for you to be in the Shadow Marches is that you are interested how Eberron Dragonshards (found in the Shadow Marches) interact with psionics, specially kalashtar pisonics. You could be a scholar of sorts who 'is invited' to the Shadow Marches or you could be part of the retinue of this 'said scholar'.
The details of your stay and what happened to you in the Shadow Marches will come out in game as flashbacks. I will give you some 'bullet items' necessary for the game and then let you fill in the rest of the story.
More questions?
Game on!
Thanks for the prompt reply and warm welcome! That's plenty of information for me, I've already started working on my concept. I'll be rolling with an Eldritch Knight reskinned as a Psychic Warrior, and my kalashtar will be descended from a Du'ulora quori (using fluff only from the 3.5 players guide to Eberron). He will most likely have been attached to the scholar as some sort of bodyguard type, expect more details to come.
This is my other major character design for now. I'm split between the two, so I can play either one.
Daardendrian Vrondiss, Dragonborn Monk (Dragonborn names are clan-name first.)
Appearance:
Vrondiss is a Brass Dragonborn, with dark, almost tarnished, scales. He dresses very simply, with wraps and simple jerkins. He does, however, have a both a hooded cloak and a robe to hide his identity if he needs it. He does carry a shortsword
Background:
Vrondiss is a monk originally from Q’barra. He has made the difficult and dangerous journey to this part of Khorvaire for several reasons. The one that matters to him is the chance to improve himself, to learn new techniques and to encounter new challenges. The one that officially sent him over here is an information gathering mission for his ‘monastery,’ which would like to know the current state of things in the rest of the continent. (Whether or not this has attachments to actual dragons I leave up to the DM.)
Personality:
While you wouldn’t know it from casual interactions with him, Vrondiss has a strong sense of humor and a tendency to sarcastic statements. He loves a good drink, though never to excess, and has a private goal of trying all the drinks this region of Khorvaire has to offer.
Notes:
I’m seriously leaning over towards a Sunsoul Monk for this character, espetially if I can be allowed to theme the blasts as ‘minor’ breath weapons, taking after the Dragonfire Adept from 3.5. I could probably be convienced to go a couple of diffrenet ways, depending on what happens to the character before he gets to his sub-class, but that is my current thought. This is a character than can, eventually handle melee and ranged combat.
Hey guys! I just stumbled across these forums while searching for some old dungeon magazine issues for my Roll20 game. I've never played by post before, but I saw this advertisement for an Eberron game and I decided to take the plunge and try my luck. Would you be happy for a complete newbie to throw in an application?
Agreed, welcome to play-by-post (or pbp), and welcome to the paizo forums!
I have a couple of suggestions/information to get you started:
*First off, you can find the guidelines to formatting your text under the box where you would type, labelled (appropriately) "How to format your text".
I personally like to use Bold for speech text,Italics for written text and the occasional time that I write thought,Out of Character for when I have to put something out of character somewhere in a post. and you can roll dice using the following format:
[dice=insert description of roll here]1d100[/dice
except you'll want to have a bracket at the end of the [/dice
and spoilers are written like this:
This is an example spoiler. Click Show for more information:
Often the spoiler text will have requirements to see what's in the spoiler; for example, everyone rolls a perception check, and anyone who gets a 15 or higher can open the spoiler and have their character know the information. I know that I personally do not open spoilers not meant for me, but it's an honor system so there is technically nothing stopping you from doing so, with the caveat that acting on information in a spoiler you don't have access to is not allowed, obviously.
Also, you can't nest spoilers, or put spoilers within spoilers.
There are some lesser used formats, but you can read about them in the place I pointed you to earlier.
*For the next part, you should understand that everyone who is posting here is applying to the game, but not everyone will get picked. I have seen It's just how it goes, and does not reflect on you personally at all; it's just that the gm only has x number of slots, and he has to try and balance the party to best reflect the story he's trying to tell. I have seen games with 6 slots that have had over 100 applicants.
*If you are selected, you'll have to make an alias for your character, which has a profile tab to allow you to input your character sheet. You can do this by hovering over "My Account" in the upper right-hand corner of the page and selecting "Account Settings" from the drop-down menu. You'll see a section entitled "Messageboard Aliases" on the right-hand side, and there will be a button labelled "Create new alias". just click that and you'll be taken to a screen that will look quite similar to the one you found yourself on when you first created your main alias. It's worth noting, however, that once you create an alias, you can delete it, up to the point you make a post with it. at that point, you're stuck with it forever (although you can certainly recycle aliases for other games). As someone who has over 100 aliases from past games, I would honestly recommend waiting until you are selected before creating an alias for your character.
*Next, it's vital to understand that pbp games are much slower than irl games. what can be handled in a night at a game table may take physical weeks or even months in pbp. Most games I've played have a requirement of one post per day, but life can intereupt (especially internet related things; they're really common).
The flipside to that experience is that you get time to flesh out what you want to say. What you might give as a two to three sentence description at a game table, in pbp you can describe how your character feels as things happen, what they're thinking, what they're doing, how they react, and what actions they're taking. I've found since I started doing pbp years ago that it has made me better at thinking in terms of my character's perspective when at the gaming table.
*The last thing you should know, and I mean no disrespect to anyone here, is that pbp games occasionally just die. It can be for a variety of reasons, but since you're new to pbp I just want you to be aware. I am in no way saying that this is what is going to happen however.
I know that was a lot to take in, but if you have questions, feel free to ask! most of the people here are great (myself not withstanding, of course) and will be more than happy to answer your questions. You can also PM me by clicking on my name and then selecting "send private message" on the page that follows.
EDIT: I forgot to mention a couple of quirks of the website: you can time out when writing really long posts, so I would recommend that you write everything out in notepad first, then posting it after you have read it.
Also, you can only edit your posts if they are less than an hour old. once they're older, they're stuck.
finally, to change the alias you are posting as, all you need to do is click the dropdown under the chat box, and a list of your aliases will pop up there. ones that have previously posted to the thread are moved to the top of the list, to make it easier to find them.
I have never played Eberron before and this game sounds promising. Before reading anything on the setting, I would like to play a wild magic sorcerer. What would you recommend as some reading in order to build up such a character?
I may change the character as I read, but I would like to start somewhere. Thanks in advance.
Like I said, a fine PC. The warforged envoy gets to increase CON and increase two stats of its choice.
This would make a fine wizard from a stat POV or slightly less efficient than an optimized wizard but not enough to make a difference in my opinion.
Trscroggs wrote:
Daardendrian Vrondiss, Dragonborn Monk
I like monks but dragonborn.... they were added to the setting during its 4e version so I don't see them as part of Eberron. I know you have a theme together with the mechanics but I would ask you to consider another more Eberron race for your monk if possible.
I have never played Eberron before and this game sounds promising. Before reading anything on the setting, I would like to play a wild magic sorcerer. What would you recommend as some reading in order to build up such a character?
I may change the character as I read, but I would like to start somewhere. Thanks in advance.
Thanks for your interest!
Unfortunately, I cannot think of any type of wild magic sorcerer innate to Eberron. I'm not against them and you could make one as a typical wild magic sorcerer, that is a sorcerer struggling to control his magic but I'm not aware of anything Eberron-themed if that makes sense.
However, some great Eberron concepts off the top of my head are...
Vrog, thank you so much for that welcome and all the information you've provided. That's super kind of you to take the time to offer so much help, I really appreciate it.
I completely understand that this isn't a sure thing, but there's no harm in trying out right?
On that note, I've finished up a rough draft of the character I want to put forward. I don't know if this is correct etiquette, but I was hoping to throw this here now and maybe get some feedback? I'm not sure if I've given too much (or not enough) info, so any constructive criticism would be greatly appreciated.
Anyway, here it is; Kovash, the Kalashtar Psychic Warrior (Eldritch Knight).
a) Appearance:
Kovash stands at 6 feet tall. He has an athletic frame, lean yet powerful and stands with the posture of a disciplined warrior. His straight black hair is intricately braided on the sides and tied into a topknot at the back of his head. His eyes are a soft blue in colour, and his features are angular and sharp. His skin is smooth, and lightly tanned.
He wears a suit of well-crafted chainmail and carries a slender blade of icy blue crystal. His steel shield is strapped tightly to his back.
b) Background:
Kovash was born to a Kalashtar enclave in the Overlook district of Sharn. His childhood was much like that of any of the other Kalashtar, spent practicing meditative techniques and learning how to balance the two souls within himself. He showed great talent in the practice of sheshan talarash dasyannah, a martial art form roughly translated as ‘dancing with the shadows on the path to the light’ and he was apprenticed to Master Valakhad of the Shadow Watchers when he was of age.
Though his forms were precise and his stances near perfect, Kovash never managed to manifest a mindblade. It was a great source of embarrassment to the young Kalashtar, as he could feel the soul of his Quori ancestor yearning for battle. Valakhad was a kind master, and instead of relegating Kovash to the role of artisan or labourer he instead commissioned the crafting of a weapon for the boy. When Kovash received his gift, a beautifully balanced crystal blade, he became determined to do his master proud. A few short years later he was accepted as a fully-fledged Shadow Watcher.
Kovash’s most recent assignment was to travel to the Shadow Marches as a bodyguard to Sorashana, a psionic archivist and renowned scholar who specialised in the study of Eberron Dragonshards.
c) Personality:
Kovash remembers vividly the violence his ancestor spirit suffered at the hands of the Quori. He maintains a disciplined lifestyle in order to suppress the powerful emotions these memories evoke.
He is fearless in approaching new challenges, and he chases the thrill of battle in order to placate his tumultuous inherited emotions.
His Quori ancestor is a Du’ulora, a naturally aggressive spirit that feeds on the anger of others. When he loses his temper, Kovash can sometimes struggle to contain himself.
