Everybody has setup and is waiting for the beast to arrive. Night has fallen by now and just as you start wondering if it will come at all whena mighty crush rings through the village.
You ready yourself and wait trying to listen to the beast approaching.
Finally a deafneing roar is heard in front of the hut a large shape is crushing through the entry into the hut. his frontlegs shortly catch on the rope but his overall power is much too great to be tripped by the device (Reflex save suceeded).
Everybody must make a Will Save DC 15 or be shaken for 1d4 rounds. Shalissa gains a +4 advantage.
Defensive spells can be cast in advance after the first crush, in which case 3 rounds will be used up by the time the battle starts. Or if you decided to wait until the last moment it depends on your will save. If you made the save you had the time to cast the spell before ht beast joined combat, otherwise you will have to use up your normal actions.
As the roar interrupts the placid night, the female section of the party remains strong, even if a bit shocked "What is that thing?!"
Shalissa is caught flat-footed as she tries to process the menace in her drunk state.
Knowledge all-sickened:1d20 + 10 - 2 ⇒ (3) + 10 - 2 = 11+1 more if arcana, +2 planes/religion
On hearing the crash Davor casts Guidance on Father Kerndrew, then himself. He readies his dagger for once the creature enters the hut, but is surprised by the brute force of its entry.
Will Save:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20
He fights against the creature's roar and forces himself to attack. Side-stepping to set the father up for a flank he strikes wit his dagger.
Prefight preparations:
Hearing something large making crushing sounds outside the hut, Neethan casts his protective spells
Mage Armor, 4 hours, bumps AC from 14 to 16
Mirror Image, 40-3=37 rounds left
#images:1d4 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5
A terrible roar then frightens the wizard though.
Will Save:1d20 + 5 - 1 ⇒ (5) + 5 - 1 = 9 Shaken:1d4 ⇒ 2 rounds
Will save Shep:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13 Will save Mate:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5 Will save Cooky:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6 Will save Nkechi:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17
Davor and Kerndrew are standing ready for the assault and take the bear int the middle, raining down blows on him from both sides, hitting him hard.
The Ape-Bear is carried forward by his momentum though and pounces on Neethan, raking his claws through the multitude of images swirling around the magician.Father Kerndrew uses the opening and leaves another deep cut in his Hindlegs. Davor also gets an Attack of opportunity
Seeing the ferociuos attacks of the beast the remaining pirates rush out of the way trying to leave the hut.
Battle Status - Characters in bold may act
Davor - AoO vs. Chemosit Kerndrew
Chemosit(35)
Neethan - 2 images left Athyra Shalissa
Shep - Shaken & Running
Kyra
Mate - Shaken & Running
Cooky - Shaken & Running
It’s hard for the wizard to fight effectively with his spells in the close quarter inside the hut. He fears the long arms of the beast too and ducks behind Shalissa. Neethan hopes the animal in its turn fears fire and uses his evoker ability to make it seem like the campfire inside roars up and a round flaming sphere attacks the chemosit.
”Fire walk with me.”
Combat:
5’-step SW to D5. Shalissa gives cover, so no AoO.
Casting Flaming Sphere.
Range medium (100 ft. + 10 ft./level)
Effect 5-ft.-diameter sphere. The sphere moves 30 feet per round. As part of this movement, it can ascend or jump up to 30 feet to strike a target.
Duration 1 round/level,
Damage:3d6 + 2 ⇒ (2, 3, 6) + 2 = 13, fire damage, incl Intense spells
Saving Throw: Reflex negates; Spell DC = 17
Spell Resistance yes ;
Shocked at the speed and ferocity of the beast Davor is shocked that it leaps past him to attack the mage. He is glad to see that he had magical protections and continues attacking.
Athyra shouts back at the beast, wielding her glaive furiously as she enters a feral stance and attacks.
glaive+rage:1d20 + 8 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 8 + 2 = 16 Damage+rage:1d10 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 3 = 16
Meanwhile Shalissa, blind by the wine, stands her ground when Neethan retreats behind her "You are *nozing* come to *may* overgrown *ratth*" and as she steps to the side to give a flank to Davor, a blazing beam of crackling electricity springs forth from her hand.
Concentration+Jak's mantra-slightly sick DC 19:1d20 + 8 + 2 - 1 ⇒ (15) + 8 + 2 - 1 = 24 casting flame blade (domain electrical version)
Female N Human Expert 1/Warrior 1 (Secondary character holder)
Seeing the size of the creature Kyra hops back looking for a safe place for shooting.
Acrobatics to avoid AoO:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14
"That elf is crazy, get out of there spoiled maid!" as she speaks up, she shots an arrow to the beast.
composite longbow:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24 Piercing damage:1d8 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2
Hit by fire and swords from all sides the Ape Bear falls down into the firepit extinguishing it with a hissing sound and filling the tent with the smell of burnt fur.
”Is it dead?”
Neethan lets what’s left of the flaming sphere grill the ape-bear’s head until that fire is put out too. He then walks forward, kicking the beast.
Shalissa swings her lightning blade at the fallen ape man, shocking it a couple of times before she realizes the creature is defeated "Ah *ya* see, it could not endure the *pawa* of the *bolp*"
The elf mostly falls after that, the blade disappearing from her hands and getting slept for the rest of the night and until the next day.
With the monster falling so quickly adrenaline drains out of your bodies. Shalissa slumps to the ground and seems to be fallen alseep immediately.
Davor starts to wonder if he should be looking for the companions that ran out of the hut, when the Roof of the village is shaking violently and shortly later another scream pierces the night. I seems the Ape Bear had its mate with him this night, and it is attacking Maatt.
You may assume alls spells are stil up, just 1 more round went by.
Battle Status - Characters in bold may act
Davor Kerndrew Chemosit
Chemosit
Neethan - 2 images left Athyra Shalissa
Shep - Shaken
Kyra
Maatt - Dying
Cooky - Shaken
Female N Human Expert 1/Warrior 1 (Secondary character holder)
"Not that fast soggy" Kyra holds the elf as the roar expands all through the village "Problems always come in a pack"
Not letting Shalissa fall, Kyra drives herself and the elf out of the hut, and while one holds the lightning blade up in the night sky to see, the pirate raises her bow and shots at the second beast.
composite longbow:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25 Piercing damage:1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6
HP 11/11 | AC 15 TAC 12
Kyra: move and shot
Shalissa: stand up and move
Athyra: double move
Meanwhile the dinosaur protector runs out of the hut trying to avoid attacks as she closes by the second chemosit.
Athyra: Acrobatics:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
Hearing more trouble outside, Neethan moves to the hut’s opening and sees a second chemosit fight there. He steps just outside and moves his flaming sphere outside too.
Neethan quickly casts a second flaming sphere after the retreating ape-bear, and he also moves the first one after it.
Combat:
Casting Flaming Sphere.
Range medium (100 ft. + 10 ft./level)
Effect 5-ft.-diameter sphere. The sphere moves 30 feet per round. As part of this movement, it can ascend or jump up to 30 feet to strike a target.
Duration 1 round/level,
Damage A:3d6 + 2 ⇒ (6, 3, 5) + 2 = 16, fire damage, incl Intense spells
Damage B:3d6 + 2 ⇒ (3, 6, 4) + 2 = 15, fire damage, incl Intense spells
Saving Throw Reflex negates; Spell DC = 17 for each sphere
Spell Resistance yes
As the Ape Bear retreats Davor and Kerndrew are able to hit it once more before it retreats
@all This is a chase now. The ape moves very fast so you will have to come with something to catch him. @Neethan The ape moves faster than your spheres, so it isn't useful to send another one after it. Feel free to change your turn.
Battle Status - Characters in bold may act
Davor - 40 ft. Back Kerndrew - 40 ft. Back Chemosit
Chemosit(35) - Running away
Neethan - 50 ft. Back, 2 images left Athyra - 40 ft. Back Shalissa - 50 ft. Back
Shep - Shaken
Kyra - 50 ft. Back
Maatt - Dying
Cooky - Shaken
Seeing the chemosit quickly moving into the jungle, Neethan switches tactic to hunt after it.
Combat, update Round 4:
OK, I thought the ape-bear was still on the map for round 4.
*If the first flaming sphere can be moved to get at it before it moves away, then let it attack using a Move action and the previous posted damage.
*If it cannot reach the beast, then let Neethan rush a Move action (30 feet) after it instead. The dying sphere will just give light.
Standard action: Casting Force Missile .
It’s like Magic Missile, but with just 1d4 instead, and I believe only one missile instead of two.(?)
Range (100 ft. + 10 ft./level)
Missile:1d4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3, force damage, incl Intense spells
Saving Throw none;
Spell Resistance yes ;
Combat, Round 5:
If it’s too dark to see in the jungle night(?), then cast Light on himself and pursue another 30 feet after it.
If it's light enough without his spell, then cast another Force Missile
Missile:1d4 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6, force damage, incl Intense spells
Athyra grunts and runs towards the beast 40' speed, trying to stab her massive glaive on its back.
glaive+rage:1d20 + 8 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 8 + 2 = 21 Damage+rage:1d10 + 7 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 7 + 3 = 16
Shalissa stumbles forward 30' extending her left hand towards the Chemosit while holding her sword in the right "*Ya* stumbled with a bone you cannot chew *Apple* Bear?" saying words of faith that create a chain fully made of force that tries to coil around its legs to throw it to the jungle ground.
Trip maneuver+tattoo-sickened:1d20 + 9 + 1 - 1 ⇒ (5) + 9 + 1 - 1 = 14
HP 33/33 AC 16 TAC 12
flame blade 2 rounds remaining
chain of perdition 6 rounds
The ape bear is trying to retreat into the jungle with his prey, but Neethan and Davor react promptly and strike down the chemosit before it can get away.
When Davor catches up with his supernatural speed he slithes open the belly of the beast.
When the other catch up you find Maath heavily bleading from various claw marks in his chest.
Shalissa kneels before Maath trying to see what is happening and what treatment is needed "Oh, I see... dying..."
To close the bleeding, she tries to apply some magical treatment.
CMW (sound burst):2d8 + 5 ⇒ (5, 8) + 5 = 18
And despite it takes some effort for her to find her Gozreh holy symbol, she follows up with some channeled energy "Sky father sooth us with your *heling*"
Channel energy 3/4:3d6 ⇒ (3, 4, 1) = 8
Once Maath is ok, she can provide more healing still, the elven is more than ready to get a sleep "*Zo* shaman, see we more than helped your village" a yawn follows.
Once the beast drops Davor cleans and sheaths his blade, then examines the creature. "Are the claws or bite poisoned? Just checking to be sure the wounds aren't worse than they look...."
Grabbing one of the arms he starts to drag the beast. "Where should we take the bodies? Can't just leave them here to rot! Need to clear the one from the hut too."
Luckily the pirate has only clawwounds, and so Shalissa is easily able to heal him with her magic.
By the time you are finished the villagers dare to leave there huts once more. Seeing that you freed them of there menace they are more than happy to take care of the removal of the beasts.
The shaman comes towards Davor "I see I was right in asking for help. Thank you so Much and please forgive my people that they have not been comletely open with you."
Neethan is relieved they’ve dealt with not only one but two of the beasts without much trouble. He returns to the hut to clean up the mess and air out the smell of the first burnt ape-bear. Now, maybe they can get a good night’s sleep. Keeping a guard is likely still a good idea.
He asks the shaman to remove the blood sign if it’s still active, so as not to attract any more wild beasts.
Neethan appreciates the rest in the relative comfort of the hut and starts the next day by going over his spellbook in preparation for the new day’s adventures. He then looks for breakfast. The effects of the wine they’d had the previous evening has worn off and he’s hungry again. No more wine today, he reminds himself.
Davor smiles kindly at the shaman's words. "We understand. Sometimes it's hard to ask for help when it may not be offered. Those were some fearsome beasts. But they are dead now and nobody was seriously hurt."
Once the hut is cleared Davor lays down for the rest of the night.
In the next morning a huge breakfast is delievered to the front of your hut.
While you spend the morning sitting in the sun and enjoying the meal the young people of the village are converging around you and look forward to hear your story of the nights epic battle.
Later during the day the shaman approaches you once more.
"I have thought long how I should thank you for your deeds. We are a poor village and while you will be free to fill up your provisions as much as you like, but we are a poor village and don't own much.
But I own a magic talisman, which may help you in your future adventures, which I would like to gift to you."
The Shaman hands you a a grisly, shrunken monkey head and a small piece of parchment.
"This talisman will help you to dispel an evil you meet. If you incant the name of Shenaga the monkey spirit and touch the beast it will be banished back to where it came."
Zenji Spirit Fetish:
The bearer of this shrunken monkey head can use it to cast dispel evil. While the spell is in effect, the bearer can make a melee touch attack with the head to banish an evil creature from another plane back to its home plane, or dispel one evil spell or one enchantment spell cast by an evil creature. This use discharges and ends the spell. When the spell ends, the fetish becomes a normal, nonmagical monkey head.
"And our warriors found this map on a sargavian soldier who perished in the jungle a few years ago."
The map notes the location of a sunken ship in a large lake.
Neethan is eager to get to Kalabuto and find out more about what has happened while he was gone and at least send a message to his parents that he’s still alive. He therefore hopes there isn’t anything else the shaman or the tribe chief wants help with, but that they can continue the journey to the city. Luckily, the tribe seems grateful and awards them with a couple of strange gifts.
The use of the shrunken monkey head suggests getting close to an evil enemy, and Neethan likes to stay as far away from them as possible.
The map is interesting, but the wizard has seen a lot of fake ones in Eleder promising adventurers riches, so he is skeptical.
He’s fine with the other members of the party taking hold of the gift, but tries to remember the site of the sunken ship anyway.
Neethan is more interested in information and he recalls the warning about ankhegs they got yesterday.
Kn(nature):1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21 (What does Neethan know about ankhegs?)
”Can you tell us more about dangers along the road to Kalabato? What was that about ankhegs? What are these? How many? Any way to bypass them? Anything else we need knowing?” he asks the shaman and the other members of the tribe.
Neethan rememebers amishappen attempt of the Sargavan Government to create naval presence on the lake of the vanishing armies, so its not completely impossible for one of the ships to lie there fur of its ill gotten treasure.
Ankhegs are burrowing, bug-like monster scuttles about on six legs, drooling noxious green ichor from its clacking mandibles. They do acid damage and like to grapple its opponets to draw them into there burrows.
You have enough information to Avoid the colony, but there will be some checks neccessary to make sure the main force also finds a secure way.
"Yes. A good look at the ship would be nice. But I think maybe we should go hunting the ankhegs as well? They're dangerous and should be destroyed so they don't hurt anyone."
Neethan turns to Shalissa, Kerndrew and Davor, scratching his head.
”Please remind me: Are you going to wait for the rest of your caravan here? Do you have an assignment to make the trade route safe in general or are you just worrying for your own crew?
If you are planning to attack these ankhegs, then we need to prepare some protection against their acid.”
"We are continuing, not waiting for the rest of the expedition yet Neethan, but yes, we are trying to secure the route for them" Shalissa explains.
"I do believe Davor is right about the Ankhegs, ok, let's do it" the elf nods agreeing to deal with "Do you have protections against them Neethan? I think I can ask the Sky Father for some resistance against acid for all of us, but will not last for the whole day"
I need to decide spells, but for the rest Shalissa is ready to go hunt Ankhegs
Neethan nods at Shalissa’s reply. He explains to her that he has already studied his spellbook this morning and prepared his spells without specifically targeting the acid issue. The wizard wants to show some cooperation though and points to his special ring, with which he at least can use for one protecting spell without preparation.
”How far is it to the ankheg colony? Will we reach it today, before it gets dark or tomorrow? With an extra day, I can prepare more. I thought we were going to wait here for your caravan to catch up.”
Neethan asks the tribe members too how far it is to the ankheg colony, if they don’t already know it in the team.
Neethan can currently cast ‘Resist Energy(acid)’ once using his ring.
Before leaving, she will visit their injured friend "Gregor, if you are nor feeling good, you can stay here and heal while the main expedition arrives."
Athyra will try to lead the group to the Ankhegs region.
Survival:1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20
Location of the Ankhegs "About a month ago a trader from Kalabuto came through here. He mentioned almost breaking his wagons axle on one of the sinkhole, before he decided to give the place a wide berth. From What I understand it should be about 2 days further along." No Problem setting new spells for the prepared casters.
Gregors Illness Gregor has been in fever for most the last days and you even had to prepare a strethcer to be drawn by the mules for him.
When you discuss his condition with Nkechi, he surmises "I believe your friend has contracted malaria and his body doesn't seem to be able to fight it. I think it is important that he is taken imto care by someone with the right medicines. I think your suggestion is a good one Shalissa. I will ask the shaman to provide some bark which will reduce his suffering until the main expedition arrives."
@ Neethan: Nkechi is native priest of Goz'reh who is also travveling with the group and is helping you to avoid the worst dangers off the jungle.
In the afternoon of the next day Davor is easily able to spot the telltale signs of dozens opf Ankheg burrows in the ground.
A collection of snaking mounds about three feet high spreads
across the savanna like an alien land formation. Some twist and
wind for several hundred yards, while others sink back into the
soil after only a few yards.
"This Doesn't look like the work of a single creature. I am sure we will find at least three of these creatures are living here."
You have more than enough time to prepare in any way you like. Currently you are seeing no creature above ground. Nkechi also warns you that the Ankhegs can spoot you by the vibrations of your Footsteps.
I understood you actually want them to find you, in which case you just need to make enough ruckus to draw them towards you.
Neethan sees the grooves in the ground and piles of dirt indicating underground activity. He knows enough about these large insect-like creatures to want to keep a distance well away from their attacks.
He casts Mage Armor upon himself and hopes Shalissa can protect them from any acid attacks. He is aware that some of the spells do not have a long enough duration and holds his Mirror Image spell ready to be cast if they get close enough to see the beasts themselves.
"I will hold my magic until we have contact with them. The last we want is for our magic to run out while we hunt them" Shalissa explains while touching the earth where the creatures have left their burrow marks "Let's try to engage one of them by surprise. If all of them jump on us, we will fight them, but if we can take them one by one it will be easier."
Survival+guidance:1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 4 + 1 = 16
Knowledge ?? Ankeg?:1d20 ⇒ 4+6 for Arcana, Dungeoneering +7 Nature ? I don't want to look them up. Remember them from Original D&D, but.... Pretty bad roll so I'm assuming he didn't know much!
Seeing the mounds Davor takes out his Hanbo to press on the ground ahead of him. "Burrowing creatures would leave soft dirt that might drop us into a tunnel. I think it'd be best if we could draw them up to us than to try and fight them in their tunnels."
Unless anyone proposes something else Davor suggests that he proceed at least 10' ahead of anyone else. If he finds an area that looks like it would collapse he is going to beat on it with his weapon trying to make "noise" that would draw one up to him. If he notices any sign of something coming he will scramble back if he can. Where's that 10' pole that all adventurers are supposed to have?
Also casting Mage Armor on myself. Spell Fail on 5% on 1:1d20 ⇒ 19
Neethan feels the fast and agile Athyra and her dino are the best hunters out in the open field. They can more easily evade an ankheg and lure it towards the rest. He voices his opinion, but if Davor still wants to probe ahead, Neethan won’t push the issue.
”I can create and project sound as you saw in the village before. I can mimic a buffalo or a lion perhaps? As long as that doesn’t wake up the whole colony of them.”
As written in the recruitment thread I will go on holiday from 10th until 17th June with a bit more limited access to the forum. Afterwards I will start the adventure within the next few days.
In the meantime Lets finish the following preparations:
Important: Everything below is debatable. You guys ar eprobably more experienced than me, so if you believe it could have been setup better just let me know.
Introduction
If ist okay with you, could you leave a few sentences about you the player. Only as much as you are comfortable to share in such a public environment.
As for me, I am 47 years old, a German living in Vienna, dad of a wonderful daughter of 12 and work as IT architect for the austrian railway.
Finishing Party and Characters
I have tried to choose a balanced party, but if you wish to change things up a bit, now that you know who else in on board feel free to do so.
Also could each of you please make a final decision on your port of boarding, then I can setup the ship accordingly.
Otherwise please create full character sheets in your forum profiles. Please use spoilers to break up sections. Use bold to highlight important numbers. Use links to the SRD to cross-reference spells and abilities. And please provide explanations for the numbers where neccessary.
If you have any personal story hooks you want to tell me about or discuss in more detail, just PM me and I will try to incorporate them at an appropriate place.
Administrativa
I know google is the norm here, but being able to use my established toolset from all my other task would be very helpful to me. Therefore I would rather use Microsoft Office Online. I have tested out that you should be able to access and change the documents without having to signup so I hope ist no problem for anybody. If this is a dealbreaker for anybody please speak up and we will find a solution.
Under the following link you find the player documents. Please try out if you can access and change anything.
Player info folder
I have put a presentation for tactical maps and one for explorations in there and a document for your party logs. You can organize the document as you lik and I will try to place new information in the appropriate places and inform you about them. If none of you wants to organize it I will probably just paste the handouts there over time.
If you rather have a full Onenote Notebook I can create this too.
I have not yet created a lootsheet, because I have none readily availbale, so if one of you could suggest a loot sheet No problem if ist google, I can either just link it or rebuild the structure into excel whatever is prefered.
BTW I have looked a bit into solutions like roll20, realmworks or obsidian portal but thought them a bit too complex, but if you can make an compelling argument I am willing to listen.
Reference Database
For references I use D20pfsrd.com as I find the organisation and the search function much better. But feel free to use the archives of Nethys for your profile links, I can work with both.
Gameplay
I put the thread up for dotting and as soon as the ports of embarcation are set I will post a small introduction and you can post about your first days on the ship and roleplay meeting each other. I will probably mostly be silent, due to my holidax, but any important questions can be handled via flashbacks later.
Errors
Errors on my side are about to happen. After preparing for the first few encounters and settings, I am still amazed how much more you need to know as a GM, which would never botehr you as a alliteral goblin running through the swamps.
If that happens, just point it out. If ist a minor thing I would suggest we just go forward and I will get it correct the next time. Otherwise I will try to correct it in a fair way while interfereing with past events as limited as possible.
I'm a 33 year old guy from Norway with a couple of small kids. Looks like we're in the same time zone and are in somewhat similar situation.
I'm not a big fan of roll20 as it require access to a computer to use. I'm using it in another game and both me and several other of the players have much less access to a computer than we do to the forums. However if you want to use screenshots from there as a map that works well enough.
I already created a full character sheet, though I'm not sure if I did purchases and wealth right.
Kendrella boarded in the shackles, though she originally hails from the jungle.
I assume from your backstory when you say boarded in the shackles you mean Port Peril.
As for the character, Please note from the character creation rules:
Abilities: 15 pt-buy, nothing below 10 pre-race
I actually wanted to avoid extreme setups.
Also be aware that I will also consider the negative consequence of things like low strength on your abilitie to carry things, which are actually pretty bad, from my experiences with similar builds.
As a sorcerer I don't need much gear but fair enough(and most of what I need the cat can carry). An extra spell per day lets you be more relevant at low level. I missed the part about nothing below 10, sorry. I'll adjust accordingly. Thanks for selecting me regardless of my mistake.
I played a sorcerer a few years ago that I totally dumped STR. Basic equipment put me at a high medium load. It was really annoying every time I picked up anything weighing just a couple of pounds putting me to heavy load. I liked a staff for my weapon but had to drop it cause it was just too heavy!
I checked out the One drive link. Had no problem adding a line of info to the spreadsheet. Didn't try the other stuff yet.
As for me.... I'm an old guy, just turned 60! Father to two sons, one daughter, and I have two grandkids, one of each. They are of course the most adorable on the planet! :)
I've been playing D&D of some sort or other since 1977, but I'm not an expert on anything and I frequently make mistakes. If you notice something I do wrong, please tell me. I won't be upset, rather I'll appreciate knowing the correct information.
I work in IT for a company that keeps changing. The rumor is that they keep doing so to have a semi-valid reason to not give the employees any raises or bonuses. While that seems to be a valid explanation, I prefer to avoid such speculation....
I need to purchase some more equipment, weapons and armor might be nice! but I think most of the rest of my data is good. Port of boarding as Magnimar. Once I get the equipment right I'll check to see if I need to link anything to rules. No magic so it shouldn't be much.
Male Human Cleric of Erastil 1 | Init +2; Senses Perception +3 AC 13, TCH 12, FF 11 | HP 8 of 8 | Fort +2, Refl +2, Will +4
Thanks for the invite Kulko, and glad to be a part of the group to everyone else.
My real name is Jeremy and I am a 44 (45) year old man, I live in the Eastern US (Massachusetts if it is of interest), and I work in the 3rd Party Global Logistics field. I am married but do not have children, except cats.
Hewit is mostly set up as the alias now but I have a few tweaks to make to the formatting (listing abilities, adding some more links, etc.). I am pretty open to making changes if it meets the needs of the group, especially a change to my Point-blank Shot feat and a change to my Family domain.
I have Hewit boarding all the way back in Magnimar. My first plan was one of the ports in Cheliax but then I read that the Lumber Consortium has been forbidden access to Cheliax, so I figured they may use an alternate port.
I have access to the One Drive for now. I am changing up computers, so I may need to figure it out on that one but it should not be an issue. I could open files, make changes, and I even loaded a file. That file is a loot tracker that I have used in many campaigns, and I will offer to keep track of it for the group (I work in inventory, I am used to doing it). The one I loaded is the one I used for a War of the Crown game I am in IRL, but I am loading it as an example.
I personally prefer Roll20, but that is mostly because it is what I am used to. It is far from perfect, and for a PBP it is almost overkill. I am flexible.
And lastly, errors happen in all games. The approach you mention about rolling with it unless it is crucial is the best. Thanks for being up front with it though.
Well, good luck to everyone and I look forward to playing with you all.
Well so far I see three ranged characters with a ranger coming up. That's probably something to look at for the party.
@Davor:
Character looks fine to me. Great Profile. As for your last language with your Background I would suggest Mwangi also called Polyglot, the local language of the people in this area of the world. As a member of the crew you will probably have learned a few words of this.
@Hewit
Character looks also fine, although I need to look a bit more in detail when you have added all the descriptions and modifiers. I am not convinced the subdomain is the smartest choice.
Male Human Cleric of Erastil 1 | Init +2; Senses Perception +3 AC 13, TCH 12, FF 11 | HP 8 of 8 | Fort +2, Refl +2, Will +4
GM Kulko wrote:
@Hewit
Character looks also fine, although I need to look a bit more in detail when you have added all the descriptions and modifiers. I am not convinced the subdomain is the smartest choice.
The Feather subdomain or the Family subdomain? Or both?
Neither are crucial to the concept, so I can switch them up easily.
As for "ranged", Hewit will likely be staying with 10 to 20 feet of the frontline people no matter what in order to function as the healer and won't likely make many attacks in the long run. But if the party is leaning too much towards ranged I can see about switching things up to a different deity. Most of the story will work just as well most likely.
I don't think the party is leaning too heavily in the ranged direction. With a paladin, a fighter and my animal companion we'll have plenty in melee too.
I must admit I haven't seen many ranged rogues before. I'm curious to see how you plan to sneak attack at range. My impression is that is quite difficult to pull off (which is why you see mostly melee rogues).
Kenderella's spell selection require her to be rather close to the enemy to be effective. As we advance in level hopefully that'll change.
@ Ranged, just something that I noticed, especially if the ranger also sees himself as a ranged ranger.
@Hewitt
But if you do not see yourself maling any attacks in the long run, I think it would be smarter to invest the feat into something, which you will be doing often.
Concerning subdomain, I was wondering about family. Paizo has a tendency to draw you into ever deeper customizations just because you can.
But now I try to keep my mouth shut. Its your characters after all.
Family subdomain is actually deceptively confusing. Is dead or dying a condition? What happens if you steal grappled? You're normally your own ally, can you target yourself to become immune? I haven't seen it in play before, so I don't know how strong it is, but I think it looks interesting.
I belive the ranger stated he'll be focused on melee.
NG| Male| Human | 4th Ranger| Conditions: 35/35| AC:17 (FF15/T13)| FO:+5 RE:+7 WL:+4|Initiative: +3/+5 in Jungle| Perc:+9| Stealth: +8
well thank you kindly for the invite.
I think Gregor's close to being done, just have to wrap up the equipment side of things.
well Davor, looks like youre not the only old guy here. ;)
Names Michael. I teethed on old D&D in 1975 Im 60, ex US Army, Arab linguist. These days Im in car sales in Phoenix Arizona. Kids are grown. though I have 2 teens still at home for a short while.
Yes the Ranger will be going down the two weapon combat path. Battle Axe and Hand Axe, though until he gets the feat he will be using the battleaxe only two handed primarily.
Male Human Cleric of Erastil 1 | Init +2; Senses Perception +3 AC 13, TCH 12, FF 11 | HP 8 of 8 | Fort +2, Refl +2, Will +4
Kulko, I do agree it is my character but as the GM your input is sometimes key if you feel something would not be appropriate. I began looking at the domains again and I reverted to the base ones (I had some debate before you brought it up, I just revisited those), but thanks for the consideration.
As for the target yourself for immunity... That was not even something I considered. Though rereading it, I can see that it COULD be seen that way. I changed it back to the based already and I feel it is the better fit for the concept but I will agree with you that it is not RAI which is more the way I would read it as well.
I am mostly done I think at this point. One or two things I am looking at changing. Might add some STR and lower DEX (encumbrance is a struggle). But at this point most things are minor.
And thanks for the input Kenderella (Kender? old school fan of Drangonlance?) and Gregor. Much appreciated.
Kulko, I do agree it is my character but as the GM your input is sometimes key if you feel something would not be appropriate.
No problem with that, but its tough not to let my preknowledge what is coming shape things to much. Finding out what challenges come and adapting your characters to it, is part of the fun odf a campaign.
NG| Male| Human | 4th Ranger| Conditions: 35/35| AC:17 (FF15/T13)| FO:+5 RE:+7 WL:+4|Initiative: +3/+5 in Jungle| Perc:+9| Stealth: +8
Gregor is getting on at Corentyn, Cheliax.
for some vbackstory assistance from the DM I would like us to come up with who hes chasing. what bounty caused him to go from Andor to Cheliax and buy maps for Mwangi....
;) he may not know a name. or the person may have an alias....
Kenderella could certainly be a kender with her free spirit and wanderlust, but no, that was not the original inspiration behind the name, it's just a coincidence. I reused an old alias and this was the best fitting.
Regarding domains, feather seems better than the base animal domain to me. I'll probably pick up some form of flight, but I'm not a wizard, so it could be nice to get some help with getting into the air (you also get access to those spells earlier than me and I certainly won't pick fly as my first 3rd level spell, that'll probably be haste).
Sneak attack can be done up to 30' away, but with the same rules.... Basically flat footed. But I'm not really a ranged build. Finesse rogue lets me use my dex to hit with light weapons.
Yeah I know finesse lets you use dex to hit, but point blank shot is a ranged feat, that's why I thought you were going for ranged, sorry for assuming wrong.
Right. PBS and later Precise shot so I don't have to take the minuses when I need to throw a weapon in to melee. Hate the feat tax, but I understand the rules....
Male Human Cleric of Erastil 1 | Init +2; Senses Perception +3 AC 13, TCH 12, FF 11 | HP 8 of 8 | Fort +2, Refl +2, Will +4
Gregor, out of curiosity are you focusing on Know. nature and Survival? I am working on what skills to take and being limited in options I was figuring limiting overlap of focus would be helpful.
I am of course focusing on Heal for the most part, and probably Know. religion. The rest I am likely to split among a few other skills.
Also, Kenderellea and Davor, any specific skills you are focusing on? I mean Davor, that is likely a LONG list, but figured I'd start this conversation.
I only have two knowledge skills as class skills, so I will keep them maxed. Perception of course, and I will be putting ranks into bluff for feint later.... and the physical skills needed for the class.
Any others that I should have for the party, feel free to suggest.
I only get a few skills per level and I'll mostly be focusing on the charisma based skills.
Isn't the heal skill kinda redundant with all the healing spells? Which part of the heal skill are you looking to use?
One of us have to put ranks in spellcraft Hewit, Not being able to identify items will be a pain. I'll do it if I have to, but I really don't want to.
Are anyone picking up sense motive? I think climb will be important. I'm hoping I can ride my companion for those things, but the rest of you probably also need a solution for it.
@GM: I see now that while boon companion is in 3 different books, it's not in any of the allowed sources. I was hoping to pick this up to make my animal companion actually relevant in combat... I don't suppose you'll allow it anyway? I'm not used to such source restrictions, guess I'll have to double check everything I want to take.
@Heal Please consider that heal has also a knowledge component. And at lower levels you can't yet expect to throw magic at every disease or poison or environment you might encounter.
@climb Nod.
Also is there some rule about riding a climbing leopard I could read up on? While I see it as possible to a certain extent it sure does not sound trivial.
@Boon Companion. I think its only fair that other Ultimate XXX Books should also be allowed and its in ultimate wilderness. And I think since its made for exactly this situation, Heart of Jungle is also official source from now on.
I guess you could count it as a stay in saddle check. Sadly I don't get ride as a class skill, so I don't auto-pass it unless I'm able to take 10 (outside of combat I should be able to take 10 though). Unfortunately sorcerers get very little starting gold, so I wasn't able to afford an exotic military saddle, but I'll pick up one if I can ever find one to buy once we get enough funds.
Quote:
Here's the 30 second primer on taking 10, and some links to official developer commentary:
-Taking 10 takes as much time as a regular check
-You can take 10 on opposed checks
-You can take 10 on social and knowledge checks
-You can take 10 on crafting checks
-You can take 10 on checks with skills you have no ranks in, unless they're trained only
-You can take 10 on checks where the result is hidden, like disguise
-You can take 10 in almost any situation, as long as you're not in immediate danger, or distracted by something other than the task at hand
An other thing I wish I was able to afford besides the saddle is some scrolls of monkey fish. If someone else can afford it that might help some with the climbing problem.
Leopard is just a big cat, using exactly the same stats as a Lion or Tiger animal companion. Those animals are listed as ride-able. Do you want me to change to a tiger (no mechanical change)?
Why do you want to penalize riding on a climbing animal so heavily? Holding onto the harness is significantly easier than holding onto a knotted rope being pulled up or lowered down (a DC 0 check I believe).
Note that I could have chosen a flying animal companion instead, but riding a climbing one is significantly less powerful (and I also think it fits better).
If there's indeed both extra penalties for difficult climb and the mount being unsuitable then I'm indeed better off climbing myself. I should probably swap the saddle over to a scroll of monkey fish or similar at that point since there is little point in me riding at all.
Male LG Human Paladin of Iomedae 5 | HP: 38/39 | AC: 22 (11 Tch, 22 Fl) | CMD: 19 (19 Fl) | F: +9, R: +5, W: +8 | Init: +6 | Perc: +9, SM +8 | Speed 20 ft | Active conditions: none
Checking in! I'm happy that we have a good week or more to work on the profile; I'll be focusing on that over the next week.
Kenderella Lefuriel wrote:
Are anyone picking up sense motive?
I will most likely be putting some ranks here, though I'm not certain yet. It's a class skill for paladins, so will be appropriate, though he's unlikely to have a high Wisdom with the 15pt-buy and need for Str and Cha.
Also, depending on our party needs, I could probably pivot into being a range-focused paladin of Abadar instead of a melee-focused paladin of Iomedae; both are appropriate story-wise in the background and as a reason for heading to Sargava. I'm open to the idea; if anybody thinks that's a good path to go down, let me know.
Leopard is just a big cat, using exactly the same stats as a Lion or Tiger animal companion. Those animals are listed as ride-able. Do you want me to change to a tiger (no mechanical change)?
Here we had a misunderstanding. In the list of animla companions the Leopard or Panther is featured as a smaller cat, which had me confused. In the List of animal monsters its described as a great cat, which is probably what you were looking at.
I think given that s a jungle campaign with a south american feel, we should call it a jaguar, which would definitely be a big cat (CR3 like a lion) and also the only cat that swim. But if you want to name it a panther, thats fine with me too.
Quote:
Why do you want to penalize riding on a climbing animal so heavily? Holding onto the harness is significantly easier than holding onto a knotted rope being pulled up or lowered down (a DC 0 check I believe).
Note that I could have chosen a flying animal companion instead, but riding a climbing one is significantly less powerful (and I also think it fits better).
If there's indeed both extra penalties for difficult climb and the mount being unsuitable then I'm indeed better off climbing myself.
When I seen you riding a climbing Animal I see something like that:
Jaguar climbs tree. Thats probaly a DC 20 climb but it looks very similar on a DC 15 climb if you surf a bit on youtube. Staying in a saddle while your mount is doing this is no DC 0 or DC 5.
Also I do not see why you think it is better for you to climb. Lets take for example a DC15 Climb (up a stepp cliff):
In order for you to be able to take 10 on climbing you would have to invest 6 Skill ranks (or a Feat and 1 skill rank).
If you ride your animal, the animal can take 10 on the climb.
Your ride check is 15-5=10. Thats an immediate take 10 without further investment.
In case there was some misunderstanding here, my suggested rule was: When riding a climbing mount you also have to make a Ride (or STR) check with an DC equal to the original climb DC-5. Animal Affinity and military saddle providing their usual bonus.
I might be confused about which cats are which. Googling panther I find: Panther is a versatile word that can refer to different leopards, jaguars, or mountain lions. It can refer to a melanistic or black cat. So let's go with Jaguar, it fits exactly what I had in mind.
I'm going to check if additional traits is allowed and if I can find a trait for riding... Though it still doesn't solve the problem of not having enough skill ranks...
Looks like additional traits is allowed and Beast Bond is perfect for what I'm looking for.
Can I pick reactionary for her given her constant vigil for danger during childhood? She wasn't bullied, but always had to stay on her toes regardless.
Thanks a lot for clarifying how you'll run riding a climbing animal, it'll make it easier for me to know what to expect.
Male Human Cleric of Erastil 1 | Init +2; Senses Perception +3 AC 13, TCH 12, FF 11 | HP 8 of 8 | Fort +2, Refl +2, Will +4
Hey team,
So after some considering about the party make up I have a few changes to mention.
Instead of the Animal domain, I am going to switch it out for the Plant domain. It actually feels like a better fit for a lumberjack background and I don't know why I hadn't thought of that originally.
This means no additional animal companion from me. And since I was also considering taking the Boon Companion feat I have a feat slot that I can fill with Precise Shot at level 3, bringing the character back to a ranged focus (well, besides healing).
As for skills, I can definitely focus on spellcraft (not INT focus but it is a class skill) and I will likely have Religion and History covered. Plus heal with the rest spread across a few others to be secondary or aid. Probably some in Sense Motive as well.
And last, welcome Kerndrew. I would say stick with the melee if that is where you wanted to be. I can provide some ranged support as needed and the rogue seems to be riding the line. I think its a good split.
Looks like additional traits is allowed and Beast Bond is perfect for what I'm looking for.
Can I pick reactionary for her given her constant vigil for danger during childhood? She wasn't bullied, but always had to stay on her toes regardless.
I dont think I want to know what she had to look out for, but the traits are fine.
What are people's perception looking like? I'm debating greatly between a rank in perception and bluff. I'll definitely put a rank in the one I don't take next level (along with intimidate), but I wonder if it's crucial for me to pick it up or if it's better that I cover an area others might not be as strong in?
@Father: Welcome! I'm happy to see you here. I'm surprised to see a redeemed paladin of Iomedae instead of Sarenrae, Iomedaens don't strike me as the forgiving lot, while Sarenrae is actively looking for redemption opportunities. As for melee or ranged, I would suggest to go with whatever you think fits your character better. I think both options could work quite well, so it's up to you what you want to play.
Male LG Human Paladin of Iomedae 5 | HP: 38/39 | AC: 22 (11 Tch, 22 Fl) | CMD: 19 (19 Fl) | F: +9, R: +5, W: +8 | Init: +6 | Perc: +9, SM +8 | Speed 20 ft | Active conditions: none
Kenderella Lefuriel wrote:
@Father: Welcome! I'm happy to see you here. I'm surprised to see a redeemed paladin of Iomedae instead of Sarenrae, Iomedaens don't strike me as the forgiving lot, while Sarenrae is actively looking for redemption opportunities.
Just to clarify, it's not that he was a paladin of Iomedae who then fell out of favor and came back; he was a straight-up gangster (who had no interest in any religion) but had a coming-to-God moment, and Iomedae's church was there to help lift him out of that life. He only became her paladin after his redemption; he had no connection to Iomedae or any other church prior.
To give you the possibility to introduce yourself I have started the boarding of the ship.
I will post new passengers as we reach new ports over time, but there is no strict need to stay with the order yourself.
Davor is part of the crew already and Hewit has also boarded at Magnimar.
The others will join in Kintargo (Father Kendrew), Corentyn (Gregor with his new responsibility) and at last in Port Peril (Kendrella).
Any idea on the timeframe for the boardings? Would be nice if I didn't have to wait a month before we get to Port Peril. I don't want to rush stuff, but depending on how you do it things might take a while.
Male LG Human Paladin of Iomedae 5 | HP: 38/39 | AC: 22 (11 Tch, 22 Fl) | CMD: 19 (19 Fl) | F: +9, R: +5, W: +8 | Init: +6 | Perc: +9, SM +8 | Speed 20 ft | Active conditions: none
Sorry folks; my dog got sick this weekend and my time was all been shifted to his care. He's at the vet now and I'm working on catching up. I'll get the crunch online here quick and then catch up in Gameplay.
One more thing i forgot:
My experience is that people who fall behind their posting schedules due to real live intervening also don't react easy to forum messages.
For my Pathfinder Adventure cardgames I found it very helpful to have a second communication channel independent of the forum, for these scenarios.
We could either setup a discord or Hangouts channel. If you don't want that I would at least ask you to give me an E-mail adress which I can contact when you go missing.
