I think I am going to bow out of this game. Honestly at this point it's not fun and that is the only point for me really. While I am willing to roll with things, it's a two way street. Between the inflexible railroading and bogging down of rules in my view. It's starting to be more work then anything else. Personally I like collaborations, not playing the part in a scripted play with expected lines and situations without creative freedom. Just my opinion, what do I know, besides what I like. Nothing personal but just not my cup of tea anymore.
Wish everyone the best and good luck. I am sure you will all have interesting adventures. At least the A-Team will line up again. :)
Aolis smirk disappears. It seemed more then his own gnome comrade was concerned about this bleachling. Lucky for him, Aramil looked before he leaped. No small credit in his eyes about his character. He took a moment to mull it over before speaking.
"Truthfully a gnome in my own group held concerns about this bleachling. It took some doing but I reassured him. Maybe the same can be done for these others. I will say this, they consider a bleachling akin to a plague bearer. Only worse, to them a bleachling is the form of all they fear and revile made manifest. Worse then any death they can imagine, almost like losing their very soul. At least that was the impression I was given."
He takes another moment to think on the problem. He did not think the solution would be that simple. Reassuring one gnome that you knew personally and for some time was one thing. Doing the same for a group with little connection to you was something else completely.
"If they can not be counseled. Then it would be prudent to bring this to the attention of the king. In an official manner mind you. At the very least he should be aware of the effect this single person is having if he is not already. He invited them and only he can rescind that invitation. The king's choice will give this matter a clear outcome without things going in an unexpected way. It should also give the gnomes a clear course of action. Those are my thoughts. Yours?"
If the king was unaware of the bleachlings impact then once aware he could choose. Dismiss the bleachling and the other gnomes will calm. Or make it clear that the bleachling will be staying so long as they choose. Allowing the gnomes to make the choice of leaving or staying and putting up with their colorless cousin. It would also be a test for the new king, it seemed he did not need to wait to leave for the stolen lands to be presented with the first. Of course something could change or happen, that was the danger. Not merely for the bleachling ether.
He could forgive the Captain, some people didn't have any use for social graces. He rather liked those sorts in fact, still he did not take kindly to Bartek barging in without so much as an acknowledgement of him. It was at best rude and among those who cared little for such things, a show of disrespect and challenge. Just before he was going to respond to the development, Aramil arrives. He gives him a nod before speaking to the Captain and his second in the black company.
"Pardon me, it seems something urgent needs my attention. Apologies Captain, Lady Senjak. Our talk must be cut short, interruptions aside."
He gave Bartek a pointed look. One turn deserved another. He returned to the leaders of the black company.
"Still I feel that I should leave you with a little insight if not advice. Scouts are not poor sods, they are first to find danger yet also the first to find reward. Just a few friendly words between comrades seeking a good working relationship. I will take no more of your time."
He gives a slight bow to the pair before he moves off with Aramil to speak among themselves.
"Now you owe me one, I was working my friend. So tell me how your going to put yourself deeper into debt."
He gives him a smile and chuckles slightly. It was a little early for Aramil to be fleeing women with a taste for elf flesh. That's what he got for being a well muscled elf.
Sense Motive DC 20 Hunch (Bartek):
You get the sense that Aolis is not happy with you, maybe even insulted.
Rolls:
Knowledge (Local) vs Bartek:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (5) + 15 = 20
Not sure if we went over this before, I may have missed it. But I assume we don't know about other PCs outside their status as leaders of certain groups or seconds. So rolling for info on Bartek.
Diplomacy vs Captain Croaker:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (12) + 19 = 31 Diplomacy vs Lady Senjak:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (14) + 19 = 33 Knowledge (Local) vs Captain Croaker:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (14) + 15 = 29 Knowledge (Local) vs Lady Senjak:1d20 + 15 ⇒ (12) + 15 = 27
Aolis spies some other members of the black company before answering.
"I was just curious as to the Black Company's plans and intentions during this journey we are all embarking on together. Perhaps your thoughts on it or ambitions. We may be able to aid one another or at least stay out of your way."
He gives a small chuckle at the end. Shifting his head ever so slightly as if to give a nod of acknowledgement.
@DM
Ether you edited your post or I missed that part about you needing rolls. Fixing that and now I can move on IC. :)
Concerning the red mantis and assassinating kings, personally I am just having a discussion. Aolis has no plans or inclination for any of that at this time. His concern right now is the frozen flame, their agenda, and getting out there to start this whole thing to begin with. Maybe a few personal matters thrown in. As to the red mantis rules of what they consider a true king and the requirements. As far as I know in canon that has never been nailed down. In other words take it up with them (the DM actually). xP
Aolis scans the room before choosing to approach those in charge of the Black Company. Mercenaries could be a boon or bane depending on a number of things. Best get a feel for them early to see which side of things they fell on. As he comes up to Captain J. Croaker and Lady Dorothy Senjak he gives a slight bow before introducing himself.
"Greetings, if you will allow it. Could I have a word with you. I am Aolis Greenborn. Representative of the Frozen Flame. This is my associate Nakir Lalish."
The head Surtova can not rightfully claim to be a sitting monarchs, they even have regent in their little title which is counter to that claim. Much less a relative without a kingdom, people, or land. The river freedoms basically give anyone the right to murder "kings" in the river kingdoms, why would the red mantis with their own very specific rules not. Otherwise anyone can call themselves a king and be safe from them. Even a small village could meet the loose requirements I stated above.
Anyways even if he did qualify, does not mean the red mantis would not help someone else do the deed. They have done it before and already depending on if you played certain APs. ;)
You can always hire the red mantis, they have a guarantee when they kill people. You'll run out of risings before they run out of ways to kill you. No extra charge for rekills ether. That's good business. xP
Aolis sent off his gear with Noravor earlier in the day. She would keep a close watch on it, not that he had given them anything overly precious. But he was in the habit of taking precautions, no stranger to the myriad of ways that even a common personal item could be used against it's owner. Then again nether was sweet Nora considering her own skill in such matters. No doubt they would be disappointed at his lack of weaponry, such was the nature of a mage.
Shortly before leaving, he places a few protections on his person as a matter of course. Who knew how long and dark the night may get with all these many powers playing about.
Intending on arriving as early as he can, perhaps avoiding somethings he wished to. He has a moment at the door.
"I would rather keep my cane if you don't mind. I may not be feeble but it is no weapon, the chairs are more dangerous and made of thicker wood. If I could be indulged."
He gives a warm smile as he makes his request.
Upon entering he nods to the herald. May as well get it over with he thought. Bracing himself for the words that followed.
"It is with great dignity and pride that I introduce, Vitez Aolis Greenborn Medvyed of House Medvyed. Member of House Medvyed. Traveler of Many Lands. Scholar of All. Leader of the Frozen Flame."
He had kept himself from wincing at it all. Gods why, was it not enough he had to endure this nonsense of a party. Give him a good tavern with a few dirty songs any night over this death pit of politics. Then came Nakir, his smug smile ready for the herald.
"May I introduce Vitez Nakir Lalish. Companion to Aolis. Northern Trader. Southern Scholar and Born."
Aolis got some satisfaction seeing Nakir's face flicker at the short and somewhat absent accolades. He played his part a little to well at times, all for the best. Nakir with a larger ego was not good for anyone. Finally the pair descended into the throng, Nakir seemed to have bounced back as he looked for prey.
DM:
Aolis cane is magical and grants a bonus to his protection spells but is in fact not a weapon of any kind, nor can it be used as such. It would be like using a wand that does not have any charges in combat. As far as I know their are no stats for that, the same case with his cane. It's a tool only, not a physical weapon in SoP.
That said Aolis is fine ether way. If he is not allowed, he gives it up with nothing more then a cold eye to remember who to hold accountable for anything concerning it's condition. It's not a cheap cane after all. ;)
As for Nakir, he has a pathfinder pouch. Basically it's contents and the pouch are undetectable via magic or physical examination as anything but a pouch. While he won't use it for smuggling weapons, doesn't really need or use them, he will use it to smuggle his wand and such in.
Anyone of House Medvyed, be they serving or members, may want to give me a heads up OOC. Aolis is for all intents and purposes (barring the DM saying otherwise of course) the oldest living Medvyed. He has more then a little pull, being an elder, even if he rarely ever does. ;)
Aolis waves at his gnome friend as he goes, calling out.
"Don't bring back anything strange or have to much fun with bought company. We have things to do come the morrow."
He gives his own twisted mocking smile at the little one. He supposed he would head back as well, not before making sure a bottle of elven red wine would find it's way to Ishana mind you. It seems their were interesting things to be found, as if he didn't have enough to look out for he thought to himself.
Again he takes a moment to ponder before speaking.
"I think I understand what your saying, well as much as I can imagine throwing away my passion and sense of self to a degree. Yet pardon my saying but what does this have to do with us? Bleachlings are not contagious or a threat in and of themselves. Unless again you know something I do not."
Aolis puts a hand on his shoulder, easy enough to do considering their difference in size. Patting him gently.
"I can tell this bothers you deeply. But you have nothing to worry about. Life has yet to cease surprising me and I don't even look for it. That's with well over a hundred years under my belt already. We are going to a wild land full of life and danger, we don't even have to bring our own. That's not even taking into account the inhabitants or plant life that you like."
He gives the gnome a smile and ends with a clap on his small back.
"Anyways it's when you forget about a danger that it creeps up and hits you. Having a reminder may work to your advantage. Also I heard bleachlings tend to be good druids, if this one is one with an affinity for plants. Well you can't let that colorless punk out do you. You and we have a reputation to maintain."
He pondered the implications for a moment as well as Govosior's need to share the information.
"I can understand your discomfort and appreciate your forthcoming. Yet I must ask, how do you know of this bleachling? More so which group? Is this out of concern for our plans, a curiosity, or a personal matter?"
He was trying to avoid digging to deeply so he thought he would add some of his own knowledge to what was offered.
"As far as I know bleachlings are not prone to evil or destruction. If anything they are drawn towards a more natural as well as neutral existence. Odd that one would be here."
He nods at the invitation and accompanies Govosier. Aolis scratches a bit of skin at his jawline as he ponders a response when posed with the question.
"Well I would say I very familiar with your people, or at least as much as one can be as an outsider. Is it a matter concerning something about your people?"
Yes I was referring to the frozen flame. Quick post are a damnation. x)
Aolis notices Govosier, sometimes known as "Gov Kul" for reasons he would rather forget. The sorcerer seemed preoccupied and with the events of the day he was not going to dismiss anything. Walking up to the gnome he motions to catch his attention before speaking.
"Concerns my friend? You seem to have something on your mind."
After the meeting is over Aolis and Nakir leave. He had hoped his comrades would take his warnings to heart. He supposed with that out of the way he should check in on his fellow mages, no doubt they knew of the news. Still it would be best to see their reactions and perhaps get a sense of any plans. The Frozen Flame needed to careful how they moved, more so in a land where swords held sway above all.
"I simply wish for all of us to be aware of the danger, not just what may be but what may come of it. Also as Aramil has brought up, this sort of approach should be avoided in the future. Something to keep in mind as we move forward and are consulted in such matters later on. We can not go into the stolen lands with a military state of mind or inflexible sense of entitlement. This is a founding not an invasion. If I have stressed that enough then I will leave it at that."
The stolen lands was wild and full of dangers. He would have no part in subjugating people or the land. He knew better from his travels and many years, that was the path of self destruction and ruin. He would not walk it or allow his friends upon it in silence. With that said he claps his hands.
"Now, anything else to bring forth? Should we do something tonight for Ishana's birthday?"
His usual carefree manner is back,if not entirely reaching his eyes.
OOC Amavin:
No worries, he is just trying to get his point across. Now about that party. ;)
"It was unneeded and antagonistic, the truth of the matter is. The stolen lands are part of the river kingdoms, no one has any claim to anything there. It is this fact that allows us to even attempt this endeavor. The stolen lands may not be a nation but it does have it's own people and their own laws. We must respect them as well as those we will not be taking with us. If we do not then we will create more enemies then is needed and make no mistake their will be plenty enough as is. Diplomacy is compromise and understanding, this shows nether and does not instill confidence."
Aolis is about to continue when.....
::Nakir::
Nakir interjects at the pause.
"Diplomacy could also be manipulation, deception, and trickery. Maybe he is going for that."
He does a double take as Aolis stares daggers at him.
"Just saying."
::Aolis::
Aolis tears his eyes away from Nakir long enough to get back on track.
"Anyways getting back on point. We may not only want to be on guard but watchful of more then just external threats. We may have other issues to deal with now. Not to mention we should be active in preventing such missteps in the future if possible."
Gods knew the political state of Brevoy was unstable as it is. They did not need to bring that sort of mess with them into a new kingdom.
People wonder why Aolis has a ranger and experts instead of all spellcasters and maybe a few meat shields. Wisdom folks is not his dump stat or mine. xP
Really anyone that has been traveling around needs good skills in survival or someone with those skills. It's the wild folks, law of the jungle! xD
"Regardless it's a moot point now isn't it. It was lost and we have more pressing matters then searching a swelled city. At least I do in my opinion, considering the announcement. Which brings me to the reason I asked that we meet in private. I suppose some if not all of us are aware of the rather subtle yet pointed statement that was made."
He gives them a moment to respond or speak of anything on their minds before he continues on the core of the matter. At least as he saw it.
"It was made clear that not only are those that failed to be accepted, not welcome but also threatened to stay away. That they would take such measures does not sit well with me. Not simply due to the provocative manner, they have in some ways made all those left behind into their enemies. I would expect some will not take kindly to this, even honorable people do not suffer such insults easily. The less reputable may well take advantage in this collective insult to maneuver or ally with others to bring about trouble for us or our endeavor. I would hear your thoughts on this and perhaps a solution?"
He had his own thoughts and possible plans. Still it was better to listen and collaborate. It had been some time sense they were all together, it wouldn't be the first time someone outgrew him.
Not meaning to offend, but I cannot imagine that even in a fantasy medieval era either lead or cork to line a small room, much less a large room like the 'rents have, is cheap or easy to come by, and the more finely-made (i.e. sheets, thick or thin, as compared to lumps) it is the more expensive it'll be. A very wealthy merchant might have a small room so lined, one big enough for two or three people to stand and converse uncomfortably; a duke or king (actual, not 'River Kingdom' self-declared king) a place big enough for those people to sit down, and one or two others to stand.
Real protection against snooping is garden-variety secrecy and other basic spy stuff, such as using proxies - writing the information you want them to convey, what you want them to agree to, and having them do the interacting while the snoopers are watching you and the other primary individuals have a four-hour-long low tea.
Out of curiosity I looked into lead uses during medieval times and found this. A quick look over (short on time) turns out that lead was used rather a lot. Before medieval times even to my personal surprise. Being cheap as well as widely used for nonmagical purposes at that. Unless I missed something in my glance over it means a lead lined room is not strange or expensive to have, just something along the lines of a request. Could be alot of roofs are lead lined as a matter of course depending on things.
Leave that up to you sense their is no such information on Brevoy of that nature. Side note, Aramil said it was his parents place so it may not be a rental dependent on his background. Aolis' House for example does not rent, they buy. ;P
Aolis takes time to divine the room their in for a few moment before speaking. Searching for anything strange or out of place by way of his magic as much as his eyes.
"No offense my friend. But if you chase ever trace of evil in this city you will never leave. Even if you did find it, what would you do? Magical detection alone is not valid proof of anything concerned by the law. Your detection is not flawless, it can be fooled and mislead. Their are spells to hide evil and spells to lay a false evil upon others. Even something as simple as a certain item may taint a person with it's evil without their very knowledge. Honestly any evil powerful enough to warrant our attention rather then the local guard, would be cunning enough to stay hidden from such simple means of identification. Or it would have already been exposed by now. While I admit it's behavior is odd, I do not think it worth our efforts with what we already have on our plates."
Not that it mattered, he never really let down his guard. Not unless he was at home surrounded by people he trusted, perhaps with some nasty surprises for any uninvited guest. It had been many years sense then. Even so their were more then a few paladins and holy people in the city now. Any true evil would be wise to wait until such persons left or they possessed enough reinforcements to counter it. In which case any interference would be met with all force. Nothing ruins a well laid plan like a leak, in that case it would be best for them to stay out of it. It was easier to survive on a battlefield then a hunt as the prey.
OOC:
I expect any wizard of even simple means, with intellect enough to earn the name, to know that lead lining and cork lining effectively create a spy proof room. Power or caster level play no part in that.
"I am free now. Lead the way Aramil. Your fathers home would seem ideal in fact, I expect a mage such as himself has suitable protections in place to keep our privacy."
I leave the arrival and description of the place to Aramil. :)
Spellcraft vs Stage Wizard:1d20 + 16 ⇒ (5) + 16 = 21 Diplomacy DC 25:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (15) + 19 = 34 Sense Motive Hunch vs Kanimir:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (7) + 12 = 19 Sense Motive Hunch vs Nikita:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15
Aolis watches carefully and pays attention to everything that is said and how they say it. When the time comes for the group announcements. He merely inclines his head in acknowledgement of his groups admittance. After all their were very few that had what they could offer in this land of swords. Even if he would not have phrased it as Nakir had. Again with little surprise he notes his old comrades admittance as well.
"It seems congratulations to all of us is in order. Except for Aramil, my condolences on having that name made so public."
He says with a smirk towards the other elf. He catches the tail end of the declaration and does not miss the subtle threat. He grows more serious as he could see where this would lead or at least possible lead. Sometimes he wondered if humans had no foresight or simply let their ego come before their head more times then not. Perhaps it was more a symptom of positions of power, he would philosophize later. He whispers to his old comrades before any can disperse.
"We need to talk, all of us. Privately as soon as we can."
He had nothing against the new comers and other groups that were accepted. But it was a simple fact that he did not know them, as such he could trust them anymore then a stranger.
He then listens to Lyda speak as well as the halfling.
"I can not say what their preferences are but I find them willing to listen. As to leadership, I was chosen to represent them. That does necessarily mean I lead them. Perhaps you should seek out the truth on your own rather then the truth of others. Or more simply, rumors and gossip should not be believed. Otherwise I am sure you would not be speaking to me."
His smile becomes a little sly.
As Azrael arrives, he can't help himself. He throws his free hand into the air.
"Oh great the paladin is here and he brought more with him. Party's over folks."
He says with a smile and chuckle. Just then Lyda leaves abruptly, her halfling friend following.
"Well I didn't actually think you would have that effect Azrael."
He says with a shrug. Even as his eyes follow her with more then a passing interest and intensity that does not match his face.
Lyda:
Sense Motive vs Hunch about Lyda:1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
"Well the day is hers but the night will be yours. We all know which is the better dear Ishana."
He puts a hand to the side of his mouth in a not so much whisper.
"I know where to get some elven wine, that chelish red will look like watered down ale compared to that. Consider that my gift, along with any entertainment they may come about from it."
He nods toward Amavin with a wink and a chuckle. He drops his whimsy slightly as the topic changes. He takes a moment to mull over the information.
"Personally I don't like that, you being used for their goals. If your their spokesperson then you should have a bit more influence. Being tied to a group like that without proper input could cause you trouble. I'd advise keeping an eye on them if you don't know their true intent, that way you can avoid getting dragged into their problems by association."
He thought it best to catch her up with Aramil and himself.
"Aramil is leading and teaching some elven magus if I am not mistaken. I leave the rest to him as well as their....unique choice of names for themselves."
A smile creeps up on end of his mouth before he speaks again.
"As for myself, The Frozen Flame is the name of my group. I was chosen to represent them. All mages looking for a place to teach and raise magelings."
Before the conversation can move forward they are interrupted by a halfling and woman.
Perception Check:
Perception vs DC 22:1d20 + 19 ⇒ (9) + 19 = 28
Aolis has great perception. xP
He noticed the woman's scales around her eyes. He made a mental note but would not draw attention to it, that would be ill mannered and bring about nothing good.
"I can't speak for my companions about your presence but I will agree with their decision whatever it may be. As to our importance, again I can only speak for myself. I am not all that important, I was simply chosen by some colleagues to represent their collective interest to the best of my ability. As to our gathering, I would like to think we are old friends just catching up. Their was no directive or order to gather group representatives as far as I know."
Again another interruption breaks the flow of conversation, odd were they so outlandish to be noticed in such a crowd. This time it was a pair of half elves. He thought it best to let Aramil handle this pair. He was not used to dealing with his kin even half bloods or their ways considering his upbringing. Not that he did not have the knowledge to pass it off, still he rather play to his strength's when he could and let his betters to theirs.
"I've been staying in Restov for the most part. Some of my distant kin from Kyonin came up looking to receive some training from my father for a 'great task' they were going to set themselves on. They were hoping for more practical combat training, however, and my father is not particularly inclined to that direction. I've been teaching them instead. Once word of this expedition came out, they were all eager to see if we could join up as further preparation for their task - which, of course, isn't something simple, oh no. They want to retake Sevenarches 'for the glory of the Elven peoples'. I helped them organize themselves as a group - they chose the ridiculous name of 'Mageforge' - and when I went to help them sign up, some fool bureaucrat or other listed me as the group's leader. While I would gladly have joined the expedition, I'd have preferred to seek out yourself, Amavin, and Azrael to form a group to join it. Perhaps it's because I wasn't raised among the Elves of Kyonin, but I just don't have the same sentimental attachment to 'liberating' Sevenarches they do. What do you think?"
Aolis ponders it for a moment.
"I doubt very much that sentimentality is at the core of it. That aside I think our kin from the homeland need to look pass their supposed superiority in most if not all things and consider a very simple concept. Perhaps the druids have a very good reason to keep specifically elves away from Sevenarches. Would it not be so much simpler to ask, if they refused to answer then build diplomatic ties to the point where we can be trusted with the truth. Certainly we have the time as a people. It seems a bit juvenile and petty to force the issue in such a matter. More so with druids who share many of the same values and perspectives with our kin. Truthfully I think both groups are to similar, which is more at the root of the problem. To busy thinking their way is not only the right way, but the only way, to keep an open mind to other ways."
He waves a free hand about the whole matter.
"We could keep going on about it but in short. Do what you think is best, while trying to help them see more then their narrow view. Just remember in the end their choices are their own. You can only hope to guide them to a new path."
Before he could say more or bring up another subject. They are interrupted by Amavin's arrival.
"A good day to you, Amavin. I do miss traveling with you, I remember that one night you had some of that chelish red vividly. Rather a bit to much of it, as you did the most interesting dance. How you managed to use those clouds while nude in such a manner has perplexed me on more then one night. Apologies I was side tracked where is dear Ishana for I miss her as well, it would warm my heart to see her."
He gave a wide boyish smile, his solid blue eyes filled with mischief.
"Well mostly keeping Nakir from causing havoc, moving about, and getting involved with some fellow mages. We call ourselves The Frozen Flame, I was chosen to represent the group. What about yourself, what have you been up to?"
While speaking he keeps alert. Old habits from the road and an eye for detail that just won't stop.
Aolis was slowly making his way through the crowd but it was tedious. More so with a pair of guards, not that he wasn't appreciative. Honestly their was little to no chance of any attempt on his life, frankly if their was these guards would be of little help. While his magic was not the most destructive, it could take care of most threats that simple guardsmen could contend with.
He spotted his old comrade Aramil in the distance. Yet at the rate their were moving it would take a good deal of time and he could move along.
"Thank you for the effort my friends. You can head back, I think I'll do fine on my own from here."
With that he disappears, slipping between the world until he makes it beside Aramil. Appearing suddenly with a small gust of air.
Aolis sighs, that was the problem with the world. No one bothered to instill the basics in everyone.
"If I am not who you are looking for, then perhaps I am not the person you should be speaking to."
He scans the gnome.
"Their is the matter of me having no idea who you are, with your failure to introduce yourself and lacking the knowledge of my name at that. I don't think we would have much to talk about, yet if you think otherwise. I'll be in the common room."
He moves pass him on his way to the common area. Getting someone to go order that carriage for him before taking a seat. Nakir remains silent and observant as he takes a seat as well.
Check your math Aramil, you rolled higher months and the same years then me. Your older, silly Murdock. ;P
Yes Aolis was raised by humans and he has seen a great many die of old age if nothing else. It's in his backstory, he has outlived a few generations. After all without modern medicine old age is a lot shorter for humans.
So that means I am 145 years old plus (197/12=) 16 years and 5 months for a grand total of 161 years and 5 months old. Well at least I am not the oldest elf but still sort of close to that middle age, for an elf. ;)
Personally I stayed out of the dragon stuff because I have seen it work and go very wrong. In both cases the DM took care of it and Ouroboros seems the type to handle it as well.
Sadly that leadership pumping item, I could not help myself. In my opinion it should not even exist. It's bonus does not even seem the right type and it's a purely mechanical item with no role playing effect at all. Even if I swallowed all that, it cost 4500 gp with a eagle's splendor requirement. O.O
Give me the Phone Book!
Sidenote:
Anyone have a link or can explain the age stuff? I think it went on during my business trip so getting a blank.
I've actually found that you can get a leadership score of 26 if you really want to invest into it. For this particular character, I achieved a leadership score of 22 with the following:
7 - Level 7
4 - 18 Charisma
3 - Diadem of inspiring rule magic item
3 - Dynasty founder story feat
2 - Great renown leadership adjustment
1 - Fairness and generosity leadership adjustment
1 - Natural-born leader basic (social) trait
1 - Social ties alternate human racial trait
First I would run that by the DM before anything. Sense he has the right to say no regardless. That said, I have a few questions concerning the magic item. What happens should your diadem get stolen/removed? Does your cohort delevel? Leave and your forced to find a new one? Do your followers abandon you in droves? What happens should you get it back shortly after?
Seems that item has more considerations then just pushing your leadership score. Unlike everything else on your list, it can be removed and gained with ease as well as bought. Their is little doubt that PCs will gain increasing resources as they level and expand their groups. At that price and easy requirements, everyone can add the magical effect on to any headband item easily via crafting. Basically giving them a +3 to leadership for some gold.
@JonathonWilder
I am no expert but Sans seems to be a real glass cannon and if played right a real danger. Does not look like he needs to get close to hurt a group. If you do close he just teleports away and his defenses (at a glance) seem to protect him pretty well at both ranges. Against a group he would be a pain, the group would have to split and work well to lock him down. Then again a bow loving paladin can crit you with a smite and one shot you, or a balor that crits with his whip, or never mind. I don't want to be a buzz kill. ;P
Nice build none the less, I think you hit your goal. Would just invest in a blur effect item of some kind to get that hard to hit point driven home if you think he needs a push their. Personally I don't think he does.
If anyone is interested in looking over this build, I would appreciate it. It's a fey adapt so clearly illusion heavy. He is only level 5 but I think he should be pretty flexible considering he specializes in illusions. I considered an eliciter but thought they would be to focused and less useful when enchantment immune enemies pop up.
Going for a fey theme, practiced swindler and con artist. Someone that like their illusions is hard to pin down in what you can consider true or not.
Nakir Lalish:
Nakir Lalish
Male Aasimar Fey Adapt 5
N Medium Outsider (native)
Init +2; Senses Darkvision 90 ft.; Perception +11
--------------------
DEFENSIVE
--------------------
AC 12, touch 12, flat-footed 10 (+2 Dex)
hp 45 (5d8+5)
Fort +2, Ref +3, Will +7 (+1 vs mind affecting effects)
Resist acid 5, cold 5, electricity 5
--------------------
OFFENSIVE
--------------------
Speed 30 ft
Special Attacks Shadowmark (3d8, -1), Truesight (1/day), Illusions (DC 16)
--------------------
STATISTICS
--------------------
Str 8, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 14, Wis 12, Cha 18
Base Atk +2; CMB +1; CMD 13
Traits Illuminator, Tough Minded
Feats Greater Shadowmark, Tactile Illusion, Iron Will,
Skills
Appraise +10
Bluff +12
Diplomacy +16
Knowledge (Nature) +10
Linguistics +10
Perception +11
Sense Motive +9
Stealth +10
Use Magic Device +12
Languages Common, Celestial, Sylvan, Draconic, Aklo, Undercommon, Terran, Goblin, Giant
--------------------
MAGIC
--------------------
Spell Pool 11
Caster Level 5th
Spheres Illusion (Complex Illusions, Invisibility, Illusionary Sound, Illusionary Touch x2), Telekinesis (Finesse),
Drawbacks Emotional Casting, Focus Casting, Somatic Casting x2
Boons Easy Focus
--------------------
SPECIAL ABILITIES
--------------------
Fey Magic, Master Illusionist (2), Shdowstuff (6), Shadowmark (3d8, -1), Darkvision, Truesight (1/day),
Was a little torn on the choice of Tactile Illusions. Was not sure if it's to early or worth it at all considering it's requirements. Is it to early to branch out of illusion or should I try to "complete" the sphere a bit more before expanding?
I know I have been silent for a while. Been on a business trip that has hit my wallet harder then anything else, granted my patience is a close second. But I digress, I'm back and will be finishing the build soon. Then I'll be able to jump in with you folks.
It looks pretty solid to me. ^^ Just remember that lots of group abilities cost spell points to use - and rather than buffing the group or doing things at every chance, think carefully about when and where to expend your power. As a good rule of thumb, try to limit use of spell points to ~1/5th of your pool per-encounter. On an average four-encounter day, that gives you enough to do some impressive stuff in each fight, plus a little extra in case you run across a boss or a non-combat situation that you want to spend a point for.
This is a make up for spell point costing abilities and freebies in the recent build.
Destructive/Stone Blast (7d6)- 1 SP
Read Magic- 1 SP
Viewing- 1 SP
Deflection Aegis- 1 SP
Armored Magic Aegis- 1 SP
Greater Barrier- 1 SP
Group Haste- 1 SP
Group Slow- 1 SP
Retry- 2 SP
Group Retry- 3 SP
Medium Teleport- 1 SP
Group Close Teleport- 1 SP
Group Medium Teleport- 2 SP
Banish- 1 SP
Granted to maximize my spell points and avoid burning them needlessly I will have to maintain concentration for more then a few of these. Alot of them have the option to use a spell point to have their effects linger without concentration as well. So that could be another drain if I get careless with multiple effects. But all in all unless it's an epic battle, the single target stuff would be the bread and butter for me.
As for Aolis, I'll post a build at some point (probably tomorrow, it's getting late for me and I'm still at school) but I'm keeping the archetype and Prestige Class. One of the downsides of Spheres of Power is that certain concepts don't translate well without a homebrew conversion and this Spell Sage / Magaambyan Arcanist build is one such example. I'm also not using the Sphere Arcanist to replicate his less focused spellbook because they get so few talents that I can't think of anything they can do to a competent level. Seriously, they almost have as many talents as a Paladin!
I look forward to seeing what you come up with.
Considering what everyone has said about Conjuration, I am sort of thinking I may dial back on it or get rid of it. Maybe use it as a way to have a familiar rather then a companion. From what I understand while a conjuration staff does not increase HD with Conjuration companions it does give a bonus. So if you had a staff of conjuration +5 then at 20th level your companion may have 15 HD but it's abilities would be in line with a 20th level. At least when it came to things like BAB and saves. So it could be viable even with the HD limit right? Let me know if I am mistaken.