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Aden looks up at the perplexing woman, a half-cocked frown on his face. "Wait, let me get this straight - you're telling me that the mountain of a man with a tattoo of a skull on his face is the 'weak' link in the Gallowed's leadership? Seems like a risky move to make, especially considering he probably has at least eight stone on even are larger friends here..,"
Aden had adopted one of his many identities before heading to the Copper Pot, that of a half-wit grifter who works the docksides. An unassuming disguise to be sure, until he noticed the giant Shoanti eyeing him down. 'Damn, I think I fleeced him three weeks back... perhaps this identity has run its course, will need to burn it after today.' Despite the extra scrutiny being sent his way, Aden paid careful attention to the goings on the those who came and went from the Copper Pot, most notably the ruffians paying what was likely their daily collections up to their leader. 'I wonder what the coded language means...' he mused to himself as he lingered over a pint or two.
--------------------- After several hours of drinking, lounging, and socializing, Aden casually makes his way back out into the street then down an alley, where he trusts in his innate ability to go unnoticed to disappear into the shadows of Magnimar as he makes his way back to his companions.
Back with the others, as his muscled friend prompts, Aden shuffles a bit. "Eh, would seem that quite a few of the people coming and going were thugs or ruffians of the Gallowed, beholden to Dog Ear and there to pay forth there collections or spoils. Still tryin' to figure it all out. How about you?"
My apologies, seems like I was logged out of the Paizo page somehow, so my notifications weren't coming through.
Aden smiles at his sometime companion. "My dear Dr. Butler, does going into a tavern have you all in a twist? Surely you aren't scared of a little social interaction..." he gives the skilled investigator a nudge with his elbow, a genuine smile on his face as he does. "I know, I'll be the one going in. Though it would be best to have at least someone watching my back." He looks at the two large men, "Don't suppose either of you are much skilled at putting up a facade?" Finally, he turns to the half-mad chemist. "Perhaps rather than muscle a more delicate touch is in order? Can you put on a good face for the crowd, m'lady" he asked inquisitively.
Aden waves his hand at the oblivious elf then leans in further. "Guess it depends then who we are approaching as... Might be good for a couple of us to go in during the day as commoners. Get the lay of the land, identify any major surprises, perhaps a few details on the players. Then we bust in at night, with blades at the ready. Don't end up caught with our pants down. You know?"
Lore Checks:
Lore-Underworld,G1: 25 Aden chuckles strangely as the others cast their votes. With a shake of his head he pulls his thin blade from the map then looks up, "Look's like its off to Beacon Point for us, cause I'd be happy to take a crack at the Gallowed. Their true seat is through the harbormaster, who their leader has his claws dug into firmly. But there's a lot to deal with before him. The Copper Pot in Bag's End is a good place to start. One of their thugs, goes by Dog Ear, he's a worthless piece of dung that can be found at that establishment." He places the blade against his lip, tapping it lightly. He then looks over to the shadowed corner of the room, where a lithe figure leans back in the darkness. "Oi, elf, you've been silent this whole time. Perhaps a thought from you on the matter?"
"The Nightscales are complacent because they are so well established and secure in their power. No, I doubt they should be our first move..." The diminutive fellow had been sitting atop the back of a couch against the wall, aimlessly picking his teeth with a tiny, needle-like blade. As he hops down, he tosses the blade into the air before walking to the table and mounting a nearby stool. He gives a nod to his sometime-companion Mr. Armature. "And Dr. Butler, while I hate to contradict you, I would caution ever using the word 'easy' when referring to anything Varisian. That said, the Varisian commoners living in Rag's End have little love for the gangs that both give them a bad name and make them live in fear. The Sczarni are a fractured lot, and the Gallowed are an especially vile group." Looking over to the newcomer, the half-orc tribesman, he pauses as the dagger he tossed lands tip-first on the map, square in Rag's End. "But taking just the head will do little. Trust me, I've tried. There is always another. We will need to be precise, and work our way through the gang, while endangering as few of the people of that neighborhood as possible."
Sounds good to me!
As an interesting way to develop my powers, I was curious if I would be able to use my cantrip "Mage Hand" with the skill Thievery?
Hey crew, excited to be gothic fantasy superheroes with you all. Figured I would put together a party overview to help us out. I split it between those who selected a monument and those who have not. Have Monument
Need Monument
Mr Armiture, maybe Cenotaph (power over life and death) or Indros cul Vydrarch (changing your physical form)? Thought both might fit your physical nature. Attica, perhaps Fifth Wind (mastery of air) or Founder's Honor (control emotions)? Just a guess they might be useful for your character. @Reckless, can people modify one or two spells, so long as the alternative fits their theme?
Just dotting in to say Aden is complete, gear and all. I kept about 100 gold as cash, you never know when you will need a good bribe. As mentioned in my profile, my preferred monument is Mistress of Angels, but I have some backup choices if necessary. Best of luck to all! Excited to see what this game could become.
I am crunching through my gear slowly (having to read everything in detail in the new edition). Does anyone have any specific recommendations given the nonmagical nature of this game? Also, its a ways down my character sheet, but my first choice for monument is "Mistress of Angels". I could also work with "Battle of Charda", "Fifth Wind" or possibly "Founder's Honor". Would you allow a little tweaking of the spell lists to match concept?
This is Wanderer82's submission, Adegard Underhill (known as Aden Blackfoot or Wisp). The fluff is complete and reposted here for easy review. I still need to transpose the crunch from the app I used to build him. The Tale of Aden: Personality To those he meets, Aden is typically a glib-tongued lighthearted fool, always good for a laugh and some shenanigans, accompanied by a tasty drink. Yet within his close circle, his friends know him to be far more complicated. Though the darkness of vengeance is long past, Aden holds a bright fire for the downtrodden of Magnimar. Too many suffer under another's heel. He has simple tastes, having grown up on the street, and has little need for the finer things in life. Part of his earnings always makes its way into a number of charities that help the needy of the city (and each has been thoroughly vetted by him). He has connections throughout the Dockway, Underbridge, and Beacon's Point, cultivated over a lifetime on the street. Background
Kurtrali Mettani, one of Jaijarko's strong-arm lieutenants, god heavily intoxicated on Bari's Brews before pulling a job he had been assigned to. The incident was a disaster, the thug's mission utterly failed, three of Jaijarko's men were lost, and the underlord of Rag's End was publicly embarrassed by the affair. He was furious. He took Mettani's left hand and right eye as punishment. Mettani, shamed because of the halfling's wicked concoctions, blamed Barigrin and impaled him on a spear before torching the family's brewery, with the whole family trapped inside. Except Adegard. The young halfling had a rebellious streak even before his teens, and had slipped out of the house after 'going to bed' to take in the sights and sounds of the City of Monuments. And so, he returned to find his home engulfed in flames and his father dead before it, left as a macabre warning that the young lad did not understand. Though locals tried to put out the fire, it was fruitless, and the dawn revealed only the burnt remains of a once-vibrant brewery. In the chaos, no one noticed the diminutive boy crying in an alley nearby. Some time later, Seeshah Raccas, proprietor of the Shucked Oyster, a notorious den of ill repute, was negotiating with a vendor behind her establishment when she heard a strange noise coming from the refuse bin. Having one of her muscle investigate, he lifted a tiny, scrawny lad from the bin, who was busily stuffing his face full of food. At first thinking it a truly young human child of 7 or 8, she quickly realized the boy was a halfling, and likely reaching into his teens. Of course, halflings develop a bit slower than humans, but the child had a brightness to his eyes despite the traumatized state he seemed to be in. Seeshah brought him inside and left him in the care of a couple of her girls, who nursed him back to a semblance of health. Eventually, the boy spoke, and gave his name as "Aden", the nickname his mother used for him. He shared little of his past, and eventually the girls gave him the moniker of Blackfoot, on account of how filthy his feet were when they found him. So Aden Blackfoot became a friend and sometime employee of the Shucked Oyster. Though he had a place to stay there (a cot inside an old shipping container in a back storage room), he more often crashed with the myriad other street urchins that inhabited Dockway and Underbridge nearby. He learned the craft of a beggar and grifter. In addition, he ran errands for Lady Raccas and her girls, whether to procure goods from the Bazaar of Sails or deliver messages to frequent guests. As he got older and worked the travelers of the city more, he managed to befriend the Princess of the Market herself, Sabriyya Kalmeralm, who was amused by the con the young halfling pulled on a Chelaxian merchant. Along the way, one of the girls taught him how to mend the wounds that the girls occasionally ended up with from bad clientele. In turn, he used these skills to treat the malnourished and beat up urchins he ran with. And so it was that he met 'The Doctor'. Aden still had rather little to his name, and much of it was spent helping his fellow urchins. As was there way he supplemented his needs with the skills of his fingers. He had made his way to a hospital in the Naos district, managed to get inside and into one of their supply rooms when a talented young doctor finishing his daily duties happened upon him. Caught offguard, Aden tripped over a box and tumbled, the bag of supplies sent scattering across the floor. Initially thinking the lad a ruffian stealing narcotics or goods to hock, the young doctor looked down and noticed the collection of bandages, antiseptic, and suturing equipment upon the floor. Holding a scalpel at the ready, he interrogated the would-be thief. Aden, totally caught, strangely opted to tell the truth rather than to spin a skillful lie. Dr. Butler, as he learned his name later, was surprised by the lad's honesty, and, to Aden's shock, helped bag up the supplies. Dr. Butler knew there were countless in need who could not afford the high-prices services of the hospital, and if a street urchin was trying to help his fellow downtrodden, why should he stop him. From that night grew an unlikely friendship that would see both benefit in times of need, which continues to this day. Over the years, Aden eventually opened up to the girls of the Oyster about his past. One of them recalled a loudmouthed braggart telling a tale that matched the one Aden shared. Aden, now into his tweens, found the fire of vengeance burning within him. Turning to his friend Dr. Butler (who had now gone through his own troubles and worked as an investigator), the pair managed to track down the identity of Kurtrali Mettani. He stalked Mettani for days in multiple guises, intent that his family be avenged. As he did, he realized how many others were hurt and oppressed by Mettani, and his quest for vengeance evolved into a mission to protect those who could not be protected. One night, as he closed in on his quarry, he knelt before one of the monuments of the city. Offering an oath of justice for such people, he went forth to end it. Aden knew it would be dangerous, and he could likely loose his life. Yet as his plan unfolded, he found himself able to do things he'd never been able to. Some had spoken of the magic lost with the disappearance of the gods, and what he did that night seemed akin to that. In the morning, Mettani was dead, and Aden Blackfoot now had a new purpose, to help those of the City of Monuments who could not help themselves.
Having approached the two far larger individuals rather unnoticed, the diminutive knight steps from behind the hell-spawned giantess with a smirk on his face, "By the stars, Lady Rosa. Are you making a promise of safety and trusting that your companions will respect it? Seems an interesting twist of circumstances. Was that not the very thing I offered only recently to another traveler in these lands... I wonder, have all followers of Asmodeus become so fickle as of late?" Though Aden is clearly poking fun at the situation, he does so with an immensely honest smile that carries not wrath in it. Reaching up to the as-yet-to-be-acquainted, Aden extends a hand. "Swordbrother Adegard Underhill... I am one of those paladins the lady can identify on sight. My apologies for delaying my greeting with such jests, it is a rare chance when you can give an agent of Hell a spot of trouble for loosing their composure. Do tell me, is your... companion-" he gestures towards the skeleton, "of some unique less-than-horrific nature, or do you tend to keep the company of the undead?"
With Rosa's return from her 'time away', Aden chuckles at the collection of partially charred groundhogs. "Lady Luminass, did you run off just to prepare us a meal?" With a lighthearted pat of her knee (akin to patting the back of an equally sized companion), Aden moves past the other and closes with his past ally. Stepping in close, he gestures for Rosa to bend down, and trusting that she does, whispers, "I agree there is a great deal afoot that we do not understand. Look at the arrangement of our company if you need proof. All I was saying before is I counsel caution of action - sometimes a subtle word can be more effective than a heavy boot, especially as we work to determine our true role in this. Do you trust me?"
Looking at the strange skeletal figure before him, Aden cocks his head, "Perhaps I am half mad, but does that skeleton look like its conversing with the tree?"
Aden shakes his head in disappointment. In a calm, saddened voice, Aden offers a few words before turning away from the hellspawn. "You still ignore the affront offered by your actions directly making me a liar. I am disappointed that the once-wise Rosa cannot see that. Though your words pose a couple interesting questions for me. I am intrigued how you knew that she had a vile of poison hidden within her, and if indeed it is poison, am further concerned that you did not warn our companion as he acts to perform surgery on the very wound where you say this poison now sits. And perhaps my eyes deceive me, I have never claimed to be one of great vision- he gestures to the large scar across his face and eye, -but I see not a single weapon upon her. The use of poison is not something I look lightly upon, though neither are vile blades, and I am sure the Inheritor would gladly see me destroy that blade you conjure forth so casually toward people's throats... but I respect you enough to stay that action. Think on it. As for now, I will leave you to your ministrations to this wounded man." Turning toward the dwarf, he responds likewise in elven.
Elven: "We are all recently brought together as companions. Lidras and I has traveled together as of late, and I have crossed paths with the Lady Rosa in years past on more than one occasion. As to the remaining companions, they are almost as new to me as you are, good sir."
Aden is struck by Rosa's total dismissal of her companions concerns, including his own. Stepping toward her as she removes the man's shattered helm, he speaks up at her. "You answer not my challenge, Rosa, instead offering avoidant manipulation of the question, something solicitors of the Infernal Gate are rather skilled at. To claim everything you do has a reason is simply a way for you to ignore my question and thereby hide from the fault of your very action. You showed blatant disregard for my bearing and my word, and if you would count me an ally in this endeavor, you would do well to respect the varied ideals of your comrades, lest your actions bring you into direct conflict with them because of your presumptuous ignorance. In the past you have struck me as a woman of intense insight and wisdom, not a brash, brutal thug. But perhaps time, and the corruption of Hell, has worn on your sanity. Is that what I am to think?"
The sudden fury of the diabolic hunter had surprised even Aden, though he knew of her past and duties. Shaking his head, he turns with a glare at Rosa. "And what of your lack of respect for my offer of honest words? I called forth to this unknown assembly, insisting that they reveal themselves and speak with us, and if so, would see that harm would not be done to them needlessly. No, I gave no formal oath, but I did give my word, something I take very seriously, as you know. And now you have made me a liar with your assault. Where do you stand with regards to your commitment to words and pacts on that?"
The diminutive knight had taken his rest early in the evening, only needing a scant two hours before being back up and about his duties. He had been more than a little disturbed as Rosa called the skulking hell hounds into their camp, but as they seemed to keep to her and offer no issue to any of the remaining company, he tolerated the situation as best he could. With a little chuckle he had gone back into a meditation of faith and duty. When his grim counterpart calls upon strange creatures in the night and metal objects floating, Aden leaps to his feet, drawing his righteous blade and turning about to see what threat approaches. His eyes failing to find a foe, he offers himself a blessing, hoping that his words might draw forth whomsoever may be approaching.
Speaking boldly, with a voice far deeper and more resonant that should be possible from a halfling. "Those that approach this company, let it be known you'll be judged as hostile and met accordingly lest you reveal yourself. I am Adegard Underhill, Swordbrother of Iomedae. Speak with me openly, and I will see that harm need not be visited upon you."
As the distant hill rises and begins to move away, Aden is caught completely offguard. "That thing is massive?!" Moving ahead, Aden flies closer to the creature, trying to determine its true nature.
Aden walks up behind Lidras, a concerned look on his face. The strange combat in the distance they had avoided had left him unsettled. True, perhaps it had not been 'their fight', but what of the victims in the situation? Truth be told, he had never even seen it himself, with only Rosa and one other spotting it, but it still sat unwell in his stomach. That said, they had been commissioned to investigate a major danger to the realm, and that duty he could not overlook. Standing beside the pale elf, he looks up. "So friend, what do you make of our rogue's gallery? A veritable mess waiting to happen, or just enough insanity to boarder on genius, eh?"
@Swordwhale the great thing is, the more you write, the more abilities you get. I am sure you would be able, between the "wish", "super power", bonus feats & abilities, and all that, likely be able to make your concept work. GM Wolf is looking for well thought out, dynamic PCs. I am playing a halfsimar (halfling-sized aasimar) paladin with an angel bound to his soul, just to give you an idea.
My apologies, I departed on a trip Tuesday night and will be traveling through next Wednesday with family. Posting may be limited throughout the period of time, please feel free to bot me as necessary.
Aden smirks as the masked man comments on the possibility of recruitment. And there it is, like so many others, seeking allies of 'worthiness'. I only wonder now what he considers 'worthy'... "Very well then. Through the gate I shall go, and if I am able, I will try to keep this unique assembly of individuals from tearing itself apart." Offering a bow, Aden excuses himself and returns to his spartan quarters at the nearby temple. There he leaves his dress clothes, donning his armor, traveling gear, and armaments. Meeting the others at the gate, he arrives not dressed as a mighty knight atop a steed, but as a humble man-at-arms, perhaps a temple guard. An old, near ancient style of armor that blends plate and chain overlayed with a red tabard, his sword upon his hip, and his shield and bow upon his back. All of Aden's gear is incredibly well maintained, yet nothing is ostentatious. These are tools of duty, not items of fashion, and Aden presents little of the arrogance often associated with knights and holy warriors. Despite this, he walks with a calm, powerful confidence as he approaches the gate itself. As Lidras leads the aging Goliath through, Aden places a hand against the water-like surface, then slips through. The lithe halfling falls gracefully despite his armor, executing some kind of twist so that he lands upon his feet in a crouched position. To those watching keenly, it almost seems as though his fall takes longer than normal, though it may just be a trick of the eye.
After taking a couple moments to get his bearings, he approaches those who have already surrounded the small lizard. He just begins to arrive at the group when he notices the young, robust goliath standing tall among the company.
Perhaps the child or nephew of the one who was here before? Interesting... The little halfling raises an eyebrow perplexed, though this is likely unnoticed as all the larger folk prepare to depart. As the others climb atop mounts or unfurl their wings, Aden kneels, offering a simple prayer of thanks to Iomedae. "Iomedae is my strength. While I walk in Her grace, I will know no fear. Let your righteous judgement guide my actions, that I may be a humble servant of Your will. I thank you for the many blessings you have levied upon me, and will serve in the unending crusade as You call me. Iomedae is my strength." Rising from his knees, a faint silver-white glow eminates from his back, expanding to take on the form of semi-physical radiant feathered wings. Rising into the air, he moves up alongside Lidras and Rosa, giving them each a nod.
Aden shakes his head, noticing that his comrade Lidras is having fun riling up the others into a heated debate. Before it grows further, the diminutive warrior speaks, "Lords and ladies, it is the arrogant fool who believes that his path is the only way. I am but a simple man, yet I have worked with the hunter, Lady Luminass, and can speak to both her loyalty and tenacity. Who am I to question the Lady of Valor herself, who has sought the Dark Prince of Hell's council at times? Neigh, if we are to set off on this quest together, I would encourage that we put aside differences for the good of this land." Turning back to their host, Aden smiles, anticipating their would-be employer's responses to his questions.
Brand had risen early in the morning, and taken to his rituals of exercise and prayer. Joining the others downstairs, he listened carefully first as the masked man made his proposal, then as each of his potential allies replied in turn. After some time, the halfling offered his thoughts. "this dungeon, for sure, seems to be a source of some great evil. I was sent forth across the realm seeking such things, and for this reason I will investigate it. Yet, I find it strange that you would offer a fortune in return for simply information. It is indeed strange, that you offer us employment with such high pay and yet have not revealed your name, face, or identity. What part do you plan all this? Are you the shadowy benefactor? Are you the power player manipulating his Pawns? Or perhaps the madman, who plans to kill us all once we return with the spoils? it is unknown, for you have shared no such information that would point to your methods and ideals. Before I depart for the dungeon, I would know something of you."
Aden sighs slightly to himself as the Hunter for Hell disappears with the Varisian. He looks up at the mighty paladin next to him. "Ah, Rosa. She is a loyal ally, I can vouch for that. She is an agent of law and order, no doubt. Yet the cursed path that drew her into that life is shown by her fondness for escape, through drink and... other distractions. I would hope one day to draw her soul away from the machinations of the Pits. We shall see. As for me, I will play the part expected of us and socialize with some of the masked attendants, to see if anything can be learned of the tomb, and what really lies behind this evening's festivities." With a nod, Aden departs the cluster of 'heroes' and mingles into the mass of masked party-goers. He laughs, shares stories, dances, and partakes in a few drinks, though keeps himself well within his wits (thanks, no doubt, to his otherwordly Constitution). He intends to use the evening to investigate, knowing well that loose tongues are far more apt to share details.
As Aden opened his mouth to reply to the half-orc, the wrapping of the staff paused his words. Once their host's strange greeting comes to a stop, he looks back up, grasping the much larger knight's hand firmly, with a grip more indicative of a diminutive giant than a halfling. "Sworth Brother Underhill, or simply Aden, if you please. Indeed, it is doubtful you have heard of my order. The Knights of the Hallowed Shield are a minor brotherhood within the Church of Iomedae. Our temple-forts are built near places ravaged by war and conflict, where we serve as guardians and healers for the wounded and weak of Golarion. We seek neither glory nor fortune, and thusly obstain from titles of power. Let me say that I am honored to meet a dutiful servant of the Weighted Swing. I stood beside one of your brethren during the siege of Kenabres." Looking about the grand chamber, Aden continues, "What do you make of all this... strange assembly?"
Aden was about to reply to Lidras when a massive hand thumped him in the back and propelled him forward a good foot. Damn, she got over here fast... he thought as he turned and looked up to the dark clad woman. With a genuine smile, he gestures between Lidras and Rosa, "Lady Rosa, it has indeed been some time since our last encounter in Mendev. It is good, if auspicious, to see you here... Though, you are looking a bit short-" he pauses with a smirk, "Allow me to introduce you to my companion, Lidras Mitheredal, arcanist and reliquarian. Lidras, you stand before the Lady Rosa Luminasss, an agent of law and order from the infernal realms. You've heard of the hellknights - their dogma is based upon the knighthood to which Rosa belongs." As Rosa tries to pull him away, Adeb politley abstains from the infernal liquor she offers. "I recall last time I had a sip from your flask, the spirits within did not agree well with me. Something about diametrically opposed origins. Anyway, thank you, but I will stick to the wine." Their destination appears at their side, and Aden pulls Lidras back to them, not letting him escape to the bar to sulk on his own. Aden looks at the newcomer, "You are referred to as the scribe of Heaven, there must at least be a story. One worth sharing perhaps?" he inquires as he extends a glass of wine in Annwyn's direction.
Aden calmly ascended the stairs up to the grand ballroom, straightening his surcoat as he did. He disliked being out of his plate and mail, for though a formal uniform did exist for him order, as it did for many others, it rarely was worn as even in religious rites a knight should always be ready for conflict. Still, the leather surcoat was reinforced an offered a modicum of protection, perhaps akin to something a city watchman might wear. It was stylish, in a militant manner, dyed a rich red and edged in silver with a bold white symbol of Iomedae upon his chest. With no helm on his shaggy brown hair offerly a slightly unruly air, accented by his sideburns. His eyes sparkled, a strange copper-green hue. A gift of his mother, his father had once told him. Aden kept his armaments to the minimum for the eve, with only his sword resting upon his hip and a studded buckler clasped on the scabbard above. He missed his shield, but it was one night, and a night of formality. He could go one evening without being completely on guard. Scribe of Heaven? Intriguing... he thought to himself as the woman before him stepped into the chamber. She dressed rather pragmatically, like him in a sense, yet there was an air to her of quiet confidence. She was not one to be taken lightly. He was about to step forward when a lean, pale elven man strode across his path. Lidras possessed an air of arrogance, but it was moreso just the cool, elven aloofness. He watched as Lidras winced at the valet's poor pronunciation. His mentor had taught Aden the elven tongue properly, whereas the valet had clearly learned from a human scholar. He saw the tension in Lidras as he moved through the crowd, likely looking for Aden himself. He had convinced him to come, after all. They needed more leads on their target, and this dungeon, or any of the power brokers here, might lend a useful clue. Handing over his invitation, Aden nodded to the valet. Baestrix's tutelage in the machinations of the various knighthoods and brotherly orders will be useful tonight. Aden had never liked the 'politicking', but his sire had trained him how to handle it well. "Sword-Brother Adegard Underhill, Knight of the Hallowed Shield." Aden stepped forward, half-bowed to the chamber then entered, making his way through the crowd then smirking at Lidras before motioning his head toward another familiar face - the hellborn giantess Rosa. Turning to Lidras, "Are you going blind in your years? You practically walked over me stepping up to the valet. Shall we grab a touch of wine before reacquainting ourselves with those we know?"
It makes sense, as an ally she can trust on a fundamental level. Lidras and I have tied our backstories together in recent time, with Lidras drawing Aden into his quest to hunt for the evil that he accidentally unleashed. Perhaps you have been drawn in as well to our hunt? @GM Wolf Sounds like Lidras' backstory could provide the backbone for a great storyline, as it may already bind 3 PCs to one another!
@Rosa sorry if I wasn't clear, I was saying from a game mechanic. Being large is generally considered a significant upgrade (especially with reach), not sure if you paid for that with your Boons in some manner. Also know that if we are in standard buildings or dungeons, you may find yourself the victim of "squeezing" rules quite frequently, which can be a challenge. You could still be massive for a 'human', say well over 7' tall, without having to juggle all the challenges of being large.
If Rosa is the dark, dutiful servant of Law, then Adegard (Aden for short) is the humble yet inspiring champion of Good. Or, to clarify, Rosa is LAWFUL evil, whereas Aden is lawful GOOD. Aden has been through a brutal life, yet has emerged humble and genuine, trusting (though not blindly) in the innate goodness of men. He is a damage dealer and tank, and also a highly capable face. Given his speed and mobility, he can also offer secondary support in battlefield control. @Rosa your character sheet lists you as medium, but your description says you are 12'4" tall... I think that would put you squarely into large. Am I missing a bit? @Lidras have you checked out the kineticist? It's basically the warlock concept from 3.5 respun with an elemental air. Their is a "void" element, which is based on negative energy, and could fit thematically for you. Air and Fire could also be manipulated as well.
@Annwyn, you already have an impressive language spread, including elementals, angels & demons, and even some major human languages. How about dead languages, like Azlanti or Thassilonian? And how about some languages from the Darklands, like Undercommon or Aklo? And some classics like Dwarven, Goblin, and of course Halfling?!
Okay, adjusted the template to my Wish line. I agree, Titan's Bane isn't much of a super power. So, proposing a new one: Angel's Wrath. Angel's Wrath (Su): In times of great need Adegard can call on the vengeful wrath of the angel bound to his soul. As a swift action, he can invoke the power, granting all of his attacks the holy special ability. He is able to use this for a number of rounds per day equal to his level plus his charisma bonus, though the rounds need not be consecutive. Thoughts?
Okay, been working over in my head a good option for my Wish, and I think I resolved on the Champion tier 1 ability Titan's Bane. I think it will add to the image of a little halfling standing toe-to-toe (or rather toe-under-toe) with demons, devils, giants and the like in a truly heroic battle, yet doesn't actually add to damage or the sort. Also, figured I would toss the dice to randomize my Aasimar ability.
Oh, sounds like Rosa would totally be up for tracking the escaped evil that renli and lidras are hunting!!
Either retention, or a goal to run two tables perhaps.
After looking into the Eidolon more, I decided it really didn't deliver on my vision of the angel bound to Adegard's soul. As you already approved the Animal Lord template (CR+2) as a Super Power, I opted to go with the Half Celestial template (CR+1 lvl 1-5, +2 lvls 6-10) and add to it with other powers/feats to round out the effect. The Druid's Nature's Bond ability establishes that an animal companion and a domain are equivalent, so I selected the Glory(Heroism) domain, as it is on Iomedae's list. Sadly, I still haven't figured out something for my Wish, anyone have any good ideas? 1 - extra trait: Magical Knack
So apparently I only rolled three hit dice, so here is my fourth.
Might as well roll some hit points while I am anticipating a response.
This is Wayward Wanderer's submission, a humble halfling (aasimar) paladin questing to defeat the evils of Golarion! The background story is complete (30+ paragraphs). I am working on filling in the mechanical details now. Fluff:
Appearance Aden is a striking example of a halfling, no doubt given his angelic lineage. He stands a full 4 feet tall, with rich brown hair and piercing silver eyes. He is built like a regal giant, only a fraction of the size. Adorned in shining armor and the red tabard of his brotherhood, the young paladin carries his father's sword at his waist and a shield proudly upon his forearm. Background
I have written this letter several times in the past, yet it has never reached your hands. I hope again that is the case, though the dangers I now face are far greater than you’ve seen or heard of me facing before. There is a dangerous threat growing in the mountains to the west, one which I have been called to help defeat. The strength and power granted to me by Iomedae is needed in this battle, and thus I must go. As you know, before you were born I served in the crusading arm of the church, facing many evils, from the marauding hordes of Ustalav to the demon infestation of the Worldwound. But what became my personal quest was the rescue of our kin, those Halflings enslaved in Cheliax. I spent years ferrying our people north out of Cheliax, to freedom and a new life. It is about one of those slaves that I now tell you. Her name was Lillya and she was a beautiful halfling lass who served as the kitchen mistress to a Chelaxian noble. That was her life by day anyway. By night she was a devoted servant of Iomedae, heavily involved in the underground working to liberate halfling slaves. From the moment I met her I loved her from afar - for her strength of will, for her faith in Iomedae, for her devotion to our people, for her beauty in even the harshest light. We worked alongside each other for those several years, her from within the noble houses, I from the outside. I believe she knew of my feelings, though we never acted on them. I asked her several times to leave her life as a slave, that she could still serve the cause but also have a free life, perhaps even a family. Always she politely resisted, stating that her bondage was a part of her devotion to Iomedae. In that she taught me humility in both my role and my faith. Over those years we rescued dozens, more than a hundred, of our kin. Not once did she ask for anything for herself. Yet during one meeting to pass along escapees, she turned to me and said that the next exchange, which would have to be several months away, would be her last. She had to leave Cheliax. I begged to know what had happened, fearing she had been harmed, threatened, or discovered. She smiled and said that she’d been blessed, that her mission would now take her away from Cheliax, then kissed me on the cheek and left. My heart aflutter, the next few months seemed like an eternity. Was it possible I could have the life with her I had always hoped for? Was she ready to share that with me? When the fateful night came, she had the largest group of slaves we had ever tried to move. We evaded pursuit, and made it north out of Cheliax. Yet something was different about Lillya. She wore loose, almost bulky robes, not the norm for her. A few days in, she cried out in pain and collapsed. I rushed to her side and reaching for her abdomen, quickly determining what was ailing her. Lillya was pregnant, and had gone into labor. Her labor lasted several hours and was challenging for her, but in the end a beautiful baby boy was born. She smiled up at me and asked to hold the child, her breath weak. As she held her son, she looked up at me and smiled as she started to cry. To my last day I will always remember what she said next. “This is Adegard, our son. He is a blessing to us from Iomedae, a gift for our years of faith and devotion. I love you Nollin, I always have. I am sorry that I cannot be here with you to raise him. I will always be watching, from the Inheritor’s side. I love you both.” The child was you – Lillya was your mother. With her final words she kissed each of us, closed her eyes, and was sent to Iomedae’s sacred halls in the beyond. I promised to live by those words, left the adventuring life, and settled down to raise you in our quiet little town. Aden, you are a gift to me, my son. But more than that, you are a gift to Golarion. Serve Iomedae well, make her proud. Know that you always have a home in the church. Know that you are always loved, both in this life and the next. You need not be a perfect knight, but always be who you are, a good man. ~ Your Father, Nollin ——————————————————————————————————————————————
28 Gozran, 4702 – Our tracking efforts and movement through the night allowed us to close the distance and catch up to the slaver caravan. Upon engagement, reports of leaders adorned in bull-headed armor More than two dozen slaves liberated, though none were aware of their destination. and wielding divine magic was confirmed. We only managed to capture three, all the others preferring to fall in battle. Neither of the warriors would share much regarding the iconography of their faith and sect. For their sins they were given the Final Judgment. As for the priest, some efforts will be made to withdraw what accursed knowledge he possesses. 13 Deznus, 4702 – I have been able to confirm that the slaves are in fact those reported as kidnappings and disappearances throughout western Molthune and Nirmathas across the last month. None of those rescued predate that timeline, so this clearly was not their first such efforts. Through devout practices I have been able to withdraw from the cultist that the bullhead is the unholy symbol of Baphomet, and they belong to a sect known as the Cult of the Ivory Labyrinth. Their actions are broad and dangerous and they have a keep nestled in the mountains. I have submitted a request to the church forces in Lastwall for aid in tracking down and eradicating this threat. 18 Deznus, 4702 – Blast them all to the Nine Hells, my request for additional resources and manpower has been denied. Those damned arrogant human witch hunters, so caught up in their mechinations and conspiracies that they fail to see the growing threat. But Iomedae be blessed, I heard a rumor from one of the free swords I recruited. He spoke of a middle-aged Halfling who often visits the fortress to resupply, adorned in the livery of the Church. Could this be Sword-Brother Nollin, my old friend? If it is, he could be a valuable ally in the impending assault. 29 Deznus, 4702 – A farmer… Brother Nollin has hung up his sword and taken up the pitchfork. That is perhaps the most amusing thing in all Golarion. And he raises a son, a young lad named Aden, though he would not speak of the child’s mother. There seems to be a deep pain there. Still, the child is blessed by Iomedae, that is plainly clear. To the matter at hand, I shared with Nollin the details and he is convinced of necessity for action. He knows of a few other men who would likewise be willing to join quest. We depart in the morning, expecting it to take us four days to get into the mountains and find reach the cult stronghold. 1 Sarenith, 4702 – Our first two days of travel have been uneventful, though I have a strange premonition we are being tracked, or pursued by some unknown force. While our company is no legion, neither are we few enough to effectively cover our tracks. No one has been able to spot any hostile force, but I am still uneasy. I have ordered a double watch tonight, we shall see what the morning brings. 3 Sarenith, 4702 – We have ascended the mountains, drawing within visual range of the Cult stronghold last night. I still have the feeling we are being tracked, yet I have no sense of foreboding to go with it. It is most strange. In the pre-dawn light this morning, Brother Nollin summoned an angelic being – a Chalkydri named Aelios he has called on before, to aide us in our battle. The being has agreed and will fight with us against the Cult. With the combined strength of Nollin, Aelios, myself and my knights, these demon-worshipping scum will not stand a chance. They will feel the wrath of Iomedae. 5 Sarenith, 4702 – I am all that remains of the company, save for our ‘unknown pursuer’. My hubris was our downfall. We went forward with a frontal assault on the fortress, which had far superior defenses than expected. The cultists were well armed and armored, and fought as trained warriors rather than craven madmen. We made it through their first ranks easily, but depleted a great deal of resources. Entering into a massive cult summoning ritual, demons descended into the battle alongside the cultists, a powerful force that now far outnumbered us. The tide separated us into two cohorts; my knights and I battled the bulk of the cultists and lesser demons while Nollin and Lutriisen moved towards the priests. Aelios battled an unholy bull-helmed warrior while Nollin, stealthy despite his armor, was able to get the drop on their high priest as he finished their final summoning ritual. To my deepest regret, he was a moment too late. As Nollin impaled the cult leader, a massive demon materialized out of the summoning circle. The beast paralyzed Nollin with but a whisper, then tore him limb from limb. A horrid cry echoed from the shadows, and the battle seemed to pause for a moment – a cry of loss. The demon charged the helpless sound and I saw its claw slash into the darkness, drawing out a second, weaker cry. Lutriisen scattered those about him as he charged the demon in turn. They fought a mighty battle. But as they did, my knights continued to die. The tide was against us. I saw Aelios look into the darkness and whisper something. He dropped his guard and allowed the demon to eviscerate him, but as he did, a wave of Iomedae’s blessed light surged forth, destroying all the demons and stunning the cultists. I ran to the darkness seeking the source of the cry. Aden, Nollin’s son, lay on the ground, bloodied but looking up at me. How he survived the demon’s assault I may never know, but I suspect. A radiant glow lingered around the child, and as I watched, I could see ribbons of that holy light mending the wounds. As the light faded, a strange mark formed upon the right side of Aden's face, where the wound had bin. It matched the sigil that had been upon Aelios's tabard. Having only a few precious moments, I grabbed the child and his father's effects, then fled the castle. We now head back toward Nollin and Aden’s home, perhaps to find someone who knows of Nollin’s wishes for the boy. 11 Sarenith, 4702 – I am taking the boy Aden as my squire. True, it is my duty, for I am honor bound to his father to care for him. But even moreso, the signs are too clear to ignor. The child’s faith is vast, and his ability to heal from the horrific wound inflicted by the demon marks him as obviously blessed. A neighbor had a letter for the boy with Nollin’s last words to him. Aden took great comfort from it. We head now to Vigil to regroup and determine the next step. 16 Calistril, 4704 – Aden has gained much in skill in the last two years. He has taken well to duties of a squire and a soldier, has developed balanced sword arm, is showing an emerging understanding of tactics, and has even become quite proficient as an apprentice to a local smith. He is still a lad and can be a bit brash, but the promise he shows is astounding. I have written to several priests regarding Aden's incident and markings. After much research, several instances have been found of angel's binding themselves to a mortal's soul, but only one of the utmost worthiness. In those cases though, it was through a planned ritual, rather than a hasty battlefield act. I think the angel Aelios did this to Aden, and now the two share some kind of symbiotic existence, though the angel, so damaged in the battle, is only a fraction of its once great power. If I am correct, Aden will truly be a mighty servant of Iomedae, and within the next few years I am certain he with take the oaths of a paladin. 22 Erastus, 4707 – We have come north to Mendev, to join in the Fourth Crusade. Kenabres will be our home for now. Aden has taken to my training well. He has surpassed every expectation of a squire, and the spark of his faith is evident. He is his father’s son. His heart is good, his will strong, his faith infallible. He has petitioned to join the Knights of the Hallowed Shield. I find it fitting that, not knowing the details of his father’s career in the Church, Aden on his own would seek to join the same brotherhood as his father before him. I will be honored to present him with his father’s blade and sacred ring of the order when he is marked a sword-brother. 1 Lamashan, 4709 – the Fourth Crusade has failed, with far too many losses. There is no devoted vision in this city, only squabbling, power hungry men. What has happened to our church? I depart with a company to recover some of the lost relics of the age from the battlefields of the Worldwound. Aden stays behind in his service at the House of the Hallowed Shield. He is quite skilled, but is not yet ready to once again face such horrors. -————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————- Iomedae is my strength. The light is dim, is it still night? No, I can hear the movement of the world beyond these walls. The westward sky in Kenabres has always been dark, yet now that darkness creeps further east. Still a few soft beams of dawn’s first gasp cut through the window, signaling the beginning of a new day. Duty calls. I am a humble servant of the Inheritor. Blessed with strength and resolve, You have called me to serve in Your continuing crusade against evil, tyranny, and destruction. I will be vigilant, bold, and steadfast in my duties. I will do all that I can to further Your cause. I will assist those already fighting the evils of this world, and with my deeds inspire those still seeking a path in life. I will watch over the weak and defend the innocent. I will be as the dawning sun, triumphing over the darkness of evil, bringing the light of Your blessing to those in need. Though a blade can become worn and dull, my faith is ever honed. My sword is but a part of my arm, and my arm but an extension of my body. On their own they serve no purpose. But my body is the manifestation of my will, which is guided by my faith in You. I will stand against evil and injustice, though it may lead to my death. Let me ever serve as Your righteous crusader, striking at all evils. Someday, let me be worthy to join those in Your unending crusade in the beyond, serving beside all those who have served You before, especially my father and Sir Baestrix. I pledge this to you, Iomedae. Blade sharpened and mail oiled, a warrior of Iomedae is vigilant. Armor donned, sword sheathed, shield strapped to my back, a soldier of the Inheritor is resolute. Cestus, dagger, and glaive, battle comes in many forms, I must be prepared for them all. Mind focused and faith firm, for they are my greatest defense. I will always remember my heart is my greatest weapon. Just as my blade can strike true in the service of Iomedae, so too must it sometimes be halted. Justice is righteous, but so too is the path of redemption. The responsibilities of a humble servant of Iomedae are many. Though many see glory only in battle, any task that serves the Great Crusade is a worthy role. My duties as a temple guard are a noble part of the cause: I protect the hallowed halls of the Inheritor, keep a watchful eye on the wounded, deliver missives between the clergy and the knights, maintain the armor of the blessed, and remain ever vigilant against the corrupting influence of the Worldwound. In my time at the House of Hallowed Shield I serve those afflicted by the Crusade. Friar Audrin has taught me of the value and truth of these people. Though wounded, scarred, and broken, we must remember they are men, women and children of this world. Many of these unfortunates served, those who did not lost loved ones to the Crusade and now need our aid. We must always honor the service of those who have died by maintaining our faith and good nature. I think back to that day, when my father joined your righteous legion above. With my waking thoughts I hear the promise made to me by the angel who gave itself to protect me, “when you need me, call, and I will return.” It is strange, I feel his power with me. When I act as a dutiful servant of the Church, I feel his approval upon me. He is like an echo of my father and a mentor from You, sent to guide me ever forward as a soldier of Iomedae. I know that, when the foe I face seems vilest, he will be beside me as Your agent, facing the horrors with me. Thus I will never stand alone. Today is Armasse. Today I renew the vow, taken each year since Baestrix’s departure. I am a Crusader of Iomedae, I will serve as She commands, I am ever Her humble servant.
A similar question to Lidras as I work through the boons. In Aden's history, a shard of an angel bound itself to his soul. I had the vision of him being able to call this forth, essentially as an eidolon. As such, can I take Eidolon as my class feature? If you consider it too powerful, can I take it as both my class feature and my companion? Boons: 1 - extra trait: Magical Knack 2 - extra feat: TBD 3 - extra +2 to an ability score: Dexterity 4 - gain a mount CR 3 or below: TBD 5 - gain a crafting feat: Craft Magic Arms & Armor 6 - gain a wish: TBD 7 - gain a magical ring no more than 8,000 gp: TBD 8 - gain a familiar or animal companion: TBD 9 - gain a super power: TBD 10 - gain another 'Special' from another class: Eidolon?? |
