Balthus Tauran's page

Beautifully written, Anthuria. Beautifully written.

+1 on this.

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I can see Balthus working with Percy and being in charge of the 'scouting force' of the area. In fact, I can see Balthus quickly tiring of taking care of his allotted plot of land and giving the land to some 'good folks' so they can make it prosper. So the old ranger wants to use old skills again.

Balthus loves the 'Frontier' and, "I'm gettin' too damn old for this. Gotta teach these here young 'uns how do it."

This 'post-Vale' situation would probably be very useful for RPing in the upcoming Iron Fang AP.

I share with everyone a little document I wrote up, containing memorable quotes and scenes from the game. I hope it will be a fun read.

Link

Good stuff, thanks!

High fives all around!

Well done!

Balthus was satisfied yet somewhat deflated by the prospect of going back to the fort. If their musing were correct then they had just defeated the menace of the Vale and the fort and roads could now be completed in peace.

That was good. Then why was he not totally happy?

He checked the saddle of his horse and asked his companions, "So what's your destination after this? I think me and Slasher will settle around here. Somewhere. Right boy?"

He looked at the others, "Can I count on you to be our neighbors?"

Balthus was timidly optimistic, "Did he just give us the key to 'turn off' the fiery gem?"

He looked at Anthuria and Perry for confirmation...

Also: Loot of Bloodsworn Vale:

Any claims?

Balthus would like to have:

potion of cure serious wounds;
ring of protection +2; and
potion of resist energy (fire 20).

But since we are coming to an end, it really doesn't matter much...

Why do I feel like we're right at the very end of this whole shebang? Moments, even, from total victory?

Yes, we are coming to the end.

Enjoy it as there aren't too many GMs out there who actually finish a story arc. :)

Balthus took a position of guard while he let the others inspect their surroundings.

With so many illusory walls, he was expecting something to start moving and attacking them at any moment.

Balthus acted like a mindless automaton himself and raised and lowered his axe in strong chopping motions

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14
critical?
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 = 22
damage: 2d8 + 22 ⇒ (6, 3) + 22 = 31

Not knowing what this thing was but knowing it had to be killed, Balthus moved up on the sturdy table and chopped down with his axe.

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

Balthus clapped Percival's back, "Good going there. You seem to have opened a passage beyond."

Taking a closer look at the glowing staff of the statue, the ranger asked, "Anthuria girl, check out that staff and its glow. Make sure it's not something that we can take with us or something."

The ranger then inspected the passage for traps and interned himself within.

"I have an idea." Percival said, sitting down in preparation to fill his 3rd level slot with summon monster 3.

"We summon an elemental, or get a fire drake's heart. Both are living flames."

Balthus grunted, "Worth a try. Give it a go and let's see what happens."

He then turned to the others, "Get ready for the worst. I suppose that thing could come alive and try to kill us."

Now that the creature's were within reach, the ranger went to work.

He chopped down with his axe and magic infused speed on whatever monsters was still standing.

"Anthuria, keep the mutt away from them!"

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste): 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 9 + 1 = 23
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17
iteriative
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste): 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 4 + 1 = 9
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19
haste
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste): 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 9 + 1 = 14
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18

Balthus grunts in surprise as the new entities materialize.

He quickly has his axe in his hand and tries to strike at the barghest closest to him.

Having just healed Slasher, he instructs his dog to stay out of this.

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not sure if it's possible to attack. What did they do in the surprise round? Attack and move or do these creatures have reach and just attacked?
I'd like to attack if possible...

Now that the wizard was dead, Balthus concentrated on getting Slasher out. The fall had done a number on his pup and the ranger yelled at it to stay put. "I'm coming! Just stay put, damn it!"

The problem was that he didn't know how to get to the dog or access the pit. Was there a door at the bottom? if so, where did it lead from?

The ranger started looking around the throne room for an access...

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perception to find a safe way down to Slasher: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (19) + 12 = 31

Hey all, I've been quiet because it's more in character for Balthus to find a way to rescue Slasher.

I'm still around and reading how this ends...

Merry Christmas everyone!

I've been quiet on the subject because I'm mulling over my decision.

I play with some of you and you've surely noticed that my time for gaming is not what it used to be.

I also want to be playing/GMing Starfinder when it comes out next August (Ironfang AP in March?). I know August is still out there but any 'little module' takes a long time in PBP. Heck, this was a 36-page module and we're a year into it so any of the proposed 'extended modules' will surely take at least 18 months to complete.

Given the circumstances, I think I will not be joining you in either option. I do wish that you guys have lots of fun with whatever decision is made.

Blood pumping in his ears, Balthus was about to take his trophy when something inside him made him stop. Slasher!

He looked for his hound after making sure no more threats were evident.

"Anthuria, is this pit going to swallow the dog?" Balthus was ready to jump down and grab his dog.

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I was hoping that critical did the wizard in. x3 weapons provide good crits. :)

will save: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22, pass, only shaken

Balthus cursed the wizard as Slasher went down the pit.

he got up close and personal, just the way he liked it, "You gonna pay for that!"

His axe went up and down on the mage.

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste), shaken: 1d20 + 9 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 9 + 1 - 2 = 19
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (2) + 11 = 13
iteriative
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste), shaken: 1d20 + 4 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (18) + 4 + 1 - 2 = 21
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16
haste
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste), shaken: 1d20 + 9 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 9 + 1 - 2 = 28
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (2) + 11 = 13
critical on last one?
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste), shaken: 1d20 + 9 + 1 - 2 ⇒ (20) + 9 + 1 - 2 = 28
damage: 2d8 + 22 ⇒ (3, 6) + 22 = 31

Fully healed and no longer in pain was a great feeling. Seeing your enemy gloat in front of you when you have a magical axe and trusty hound by your side was even better.

Imbued with Anthuria's speed, the ranger sprinted to the wizard, axe raised high. He urged Slasher to join him, "C'mon boy. You can come too." The dog was already past him.

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack, haste): 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 9 + 1 = 17
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17
Slasher bite, power attack, haste: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (7) + 6 + 1 = 14
damage: 1d6 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15
trip: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13

Balthus cleaned up his axe, picked up his bow, and nodded to Meiren, "About time you got here!"

Still moving little and slowly on account of the pain, he asked, "Can anyone do something about this? I'm afraid I'm not as efficient a scout or fighter with this cursed magical pain coursing through my body."

tag?

He then added, "I suggest we investigate the lower floor before heading upstairs. The wizard already knows we're here and I rather not get caught by something nasty from behind."

Stinging from the pain and wound, the ranger once more swung his axe.

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 9 - 4 ⇒ (20) + 9 - 4 = 25
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 4 - 4 ⇒ (18) + 4 - 4 = 18
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17

critical?
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 9 - 4 ⇒ (6) + 9 - 4 = 11
damage: 2d8 + 22 ⇒ (4, 8) + 22 = 34

I forgot to add the 'pain penalty' in my last round. Please adjust as necessary. Sorry.

Quickly discarding his bow, the ranger hefts his powerful axe, the feel of the wood making him feel bolder than he perhaps should against this other wordly creature.

He swung with enough force to split the thing in two.

"Anthuria girl, keep Slasher away!"

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Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (6) + 11 = 17
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12

critical?
Melee (battleaxe +1 keen, 2H grip, power attack): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (20) + 9 = 29
damage: 2d8 + 22 ⇒ (6, 8) + 22 = 36

Balthus nodded at the paladin and looked away, "Well, get in here already!"

Welcome back!

I don't see any icons but I'm assuming that I can shoot it.

Balthus growled much like Slasher at the sight of the overgrown goblin, "Never seen the likes of you before but it doesn't matter. You gonna die."

He then shot two arrows at the goblinoid beasts but his arm twitched in pain as he drew the bowstring making him miss.

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MW comp shortbow, deadly aim, in pain: 1d20 + 7 - 4 ⇒ (5) + 7 - 4 = 8
damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8
MW comp shortbow, deadly aim, in pain: 1d20 + 2 - 4 ⇒ (10) + 2 - 4 = 8
damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9

Balthus moved and winced as pain laced up his leg again.

He nodded, "I have no way of telling which way to go so going right, as Jetta suggests, is fine."

He inspected the door for traps and moved to try and open it....

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GM: modus operandi from now on will be to check for traps and if none found to go in. We will then spend a few minutes searching the place (take 20 on perception if allowed)

Balthus fort save: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12
Slasher fort save: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

Even his hairs hurt and Balthus' movement reflected that. He became clumsy trying to do his task with the least amount of movement, the least amount of pain.

Still he trudged on.

"We need a light-footed scout to find the foe for us and avoid any traps the wizard might have placed," said Percival, turning to Balthus, and giving him a platinum ring. "I have a couple of spells that might help."

Not seeing any other way, the ranger accepts his impromptu role with a grunt, "I'm no trap expert but I can usually see them. We'll figure what to do once if I find any. I will probably trigger them on purpose because I have no skill in disarming traps."

He put on the ring and looked at Slasher. With a firm voice, he said, "Stay with the girl. You understand?"

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perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
Balthus will take the help/items offered and will move ahead.

Although with just a minor scratch, the ranger took no chances and healed himself with his healing stick. He then protected himself against fire.

Balthus grunted as Jetta broke the door inwards.

With bow in hand, he followed the armored knight.

He felt cocky and knowing the wizard laready knew they were here, called him out, Come out, come out wherever you are..."

The ranger asked, "What's all this Amund stuff?!"

He grunted, "My dog's hurt. C'here boy; let's take a look at that."

after some healing, Balthus is a little hurt too

He then agreed with Jetta, "C'mon, let's get this over with."

The ranger then started to look for a way in.

Balthus continued to use the reamining drake as pinhole cushion. Two more arrows went its way while Slasher did what he did best.

"Amund, fall back. You promised me a wizard's head so you can't fall here!"

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MW comp shortbow, deadly aim: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21
damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9
MW comp shortbow, deadly aim: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (1) + 7 = 8
Slasher bite, power attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (10) + 6 = 16
damage: 1d6 + 12 ⇒ (5) + 12 = 17

Balthus reflex save: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17
Slasher reflex save: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12

The ranger rolled under the fiery breath but Slasher was not so lucky.

He immediately followed Amund's lead and started shooting at the dragon he had selected. Slasher did the same.

One of the arrows took one of its eyes out and while the thing bellowed in pain, Slasher tore into its hamstring muscle.

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MW comp shortbow, deadly aim: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14
damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12
MW comp shortbow, deadly aim: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22
damage: 1d6 + 7 ⇒ (6) + 7 = 13
critical?
MW comp shortbow, deadly aim: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21
damage: 2d6 + 14 ⇒ (3, 6) + 14 = 23
Slasher bite, power attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19
damage: 1d6 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18
I don't their AC but I hope that Balthus' critical and Slasher's bite hit...

Breaking eye contact and looking down, "While I could make excuses for my behavior. And I have plenty of reasons. My father always said that an excuses was a reason not an apology and it was the action that made up for the mistake. I am not sure how to make up for how I have behaved. I am supposed to leave the world a better place than I found it."

Balthus liked to put people in their own little boxes. It was what had worked for him for his entire life.

But Amund... he just kept jumping out of the boxes that Balthus put him in. Once Balthus found him a new box, Amund would get out again. Very confusing for a man set in his ways.

Balthus pondered for a second, another box?

"Listen son, things are tough for everyone and no harm was done. A ticking bomb that could wipe out a fort is not something you deal with every day."

He added, "No need to apologize, at least not to me. I'm old and have thicker skin than my mutt. If you want to do something for me then help me put this wizard's head on a pike and allow the settlers to have a chance at a decent life in this here valley."

He offered his hand, "Deal?"

Getting up and looking for that grumpy old man. Once Amund has the older man in his sights he slowly moving in on his target. Stopping a few feet from Balthus. Running a hand though his hair before speaking, "Balthus.. Could I speak with you?" He is old try manners? "Please."

I'm assuming this is after everyone has retired to sleep except for the few guards and I'll assume that Balthus is on guard duty

Balthus heard someone was coming before Amund appeared in his line of sight. With his axe in his hand, he was relieved to see that it was Amund and not some crazy displaced bugbear.

The ranger grunted, "Go back to sleep. It's not your turn for guard duty yet." He scoffed, "I promise I'll wake ye. Just go to sleep. You need your beauty sleep Amund, trust me."

When the young man did not leave, Balthus gave in, "Alright, whadda ya want? But keep your voice low..."

Balthus grunted as he strappedon the horse's saddle on too tight. The horse whined its discomfort and the ranger loosened it up some, "Well, life ain't fair, is it? You're actually lucky 'cause you're leaving here. Imagine all these people knowing that the gem can explode and kill them all at any time."

Balthus, already packed, continued to talk to the horses while he waited for the others.

This game has been wonderful and I thank you GM Rennai. Both for the opportunity to play and the brilliant style of GMing that you are willing to share.

I don't think there is a need for you to leave the game.

You could have just as easily have Amund have some sort of epiphany and realize that his 'recent behavior' was 'off' somehow. You even hinted at this already where Amund realizes that his rant was inappropriate or unprofessional. in game, these have been trying times for everyone so there's plenty of excuse.

If you do decide to leave (up to you), at least don't leave thinking that you are a 'poisonous player'. I don't think anyone has said or implied this.

Balthus agreed with Anthuria, "Not interested in making points or arguing. Got more important things to do. Like leaving."

She ushered the sorceress along, "Go get your stuff. I always pack light. I'll meet you all at the stables. I'll start to get the horses ready."

Well, I don't want to respond to your last post 'point by point' because it seems like we're arguing. :)

Enough to say that I don't agree with some of your statements.

However, I tried to play Balthus as having stopped the 'talking down to Amund'. I know we had this conversation before where Amund was pissed off because Balthus kept calling him 'boy'. So from Balthus' POV, that stopped but I guess I understand if Amund still feels hurt.

Anyway, continue to play him as you see fit but know that Balthus had extended the 'olive branch'.

Game on!

I feel like I have to repeat something I already brought up in-character a while ago, as a sort of constructive criticism (so you know, please don't hate me): as fun as it is to argue, I don't think Amund and Balthus' relationship is going to have any sort of satisfying conclusion if neither of them is willing to bend. As fun as it is to get one over the other from time to time, if both sides feel the need to have the final word in every confrontation, things don't really evolve. Right? Of course, if you're both fine with it, there's no issue. I just wanted to throw that out there, since we're nearing the end of the adventure.

I think (hope) that Amund is playing his PC as a very paranoid person who feels that Balthus is out to get him.

Nothing further from the truth by Balthus' account.

Look at this last interchange; Balthus merely disagrees (even partially agrees) with Amund's statement in post #1641.

Then Amund starts 'glaring' at Balthus and states "Stop assuming that you speak for the world Balthus. You word is no more golden than mine."

Balthus is like, where did that come from? And so Balthus replies (only words). And then Amund gets in his personal space and replies (thus escalating this to physical and verbal).

Like I said above, I think Amund is playing his PC with some sort of paranoia complex (see his statement about Balthus spoiling his relationship with Anthuria).

All good on my end.

Amund?

Balthus is so mean to Amund and I enjoy it so much. Sadly I had him leave so he did not hear or acknowledge the response old man.

Not that it matters but I don't think this is the way PBPs work.

If you speak to someone, it's assumed that that someone replies back to you. There's an action to be taken by Balthus after Amund speaks and before he stomps off.

Think of it as a round of combat where the first person acts and the other person acts before the first person gets a chance to act again.

But like I said, if you wanted to be gone then that's fine by me.

More on this in Jetta's reply.

Turning so that he is facing Balthus, "We have five days and you said if we are not back in four days then they should leave. By my understanding you are saying that they should leave on the fifth and final day. Pay attention to your own words.

Taking steps so that he is in Balthus's personal space. Nearly snarling his answer, "Do not speak down to me again." Pulling the vitrial out of his voice but not his eyes as he continues to glare at Balthus, "I have been right there with you helping this Vale. I have shed as much blood as you in this. You have no reason to doubt me yet you do. I backed off of what could have been a wonderful relationship with Anthuira. All to assuage your ego. Since you seemed as if you could not abide by that and I had a mission that comes before my own personal wants, so I did it. Do not speak of my insecurities like you know anything you bitter old man."

Balthus shook his head again, "Your insecurity keeps getting the better of you."

He added, "I said that if we're not back in four days then people should leave. I never said they should wait until the fifth day to leave. That was your assumption."

He asked, "I kept you from having a relationship with Anthuria? That's news to me. I think the girl needs someone who can stand on his own two feet and not someone who sees enemies and conspiracies everywhere. But rest assured that I never told her NOT to have a relationship with you. She never asked and it's none of my business. Again, your insecurity getting the better of you."

He concluded, "You need to relax some. And if getting in my space is your way of intimidating me then it's not working. Real men don't threaten or imply, they just do."

Glaring at Baltus, "That is cutting it two close. We do not know how big of an explosion that gem will give off. And there are a lot of people here. They will need time to pack up and go but they should not wait until the last day to do it."

Taking a deep breath before continuing, "Stop assuming that you speak for the world Balthus. You word is no more golden than mine."

He stared back, "Stop guessing at what people say and pay attention. I did NOT say for them to pack and go during the last day. I partially agreed with you in that people should start packing and getting ready now. I only want them to wait a few days before leaving."

He then shook his head, "I have no time to argue with you or assuage your insecurities. I have more important things to do, like getting ready to leave. You should start packing."

Closing his eyes for a moment then speaking up, "Five days is not a lot of time. We should ask the people here to leave just in case."

Balthus shook his head, "I disagree. No need to leave now but you're right, people should get ready."

He turned to Tolgrith, "We should be back with a wizard's head in less than four days. If that's not the case, then everyone should abandon the fort."

Amund Basurto wrote:

Glancing over at Balthus, "And just where are we going to be going?"

"We'll follow the scouts' trail," Jetta says matter-of-factly. "Clearly, they came close to finding the wizard. Enough to make him tip his hand. That'll be his last mistake."

Balthus nodded, Agreed. Hopefully, they left markers as I taught them making our search that much easier."

He patted his mutt, "Slasher here could also help smell out the trail."

He concluded, "Let's be ready."

Balthus clenched his jaws at the grisly display. He went to the heads hoping for the best but fearing the worst. Once there, he not only realized that these were real heads, they were also the heads of his scouts. People who had trained with him.

Rathan, Chiro, and Mel. Three good people, two of them with families.

He raised his fist at the apparition, "Your blood will pay for this. Get ready wizard. Your days are counted."

With morning already here, Balthus turned to his companions, "Saddle up. We ride out in an hour."

Balthus watched from a safe distance; Slasher, hairs pirckly on his neck, growled at the unquiet owlbears.

"Watch your fingers girl. I think you need those to work your magic. Remember what I said. Those are wild animals in there and not pets. Wild animals behave... well wild."

He scoffed, "I sure wouldn't leave children around them like I would with a puppy."

Balthus spoke to his scouts as he waited for the others to arrive. he brought Lord Tolgrith up to speed on what they done and informed them of their failure to bring anyone back alive.

"At least those bugbears won't be bothering anyone anymore."

He also explained the possibility of having a manned outpost in their old camp but understood that this was something that would need to be done once the road was finished.

To that end he asked, "So how IS the road coming along? Will you meet your deadline?"

later after reuniting with companions
"So how was your trip? Anything happen worth noting?"

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What time is it? How tired is everyone?

"It wouldn't do for me, though, I could barely shoot a moose across the road! Not that I'd ever want to.. I'll hold onto some of these scrolls, though. They might actually prove useful."

Balthus asked to try the bow and shot a couple of arrows at the huts, "Very good quality indeed."

He looked back at Anthuria and handed her the bow back, "Can you even pull the bowstring back? Show me."

He then stated, "If no one wants the longbow, I'd like to take it as a souvenir from our little hunt here."

He looked at the sleep-walker that was Amund, "I was going to take ears but 'sleeping beauty' here might object."

"You there boy? Or are you too tired to even bicker with me?"

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I'll take the bow and offer up a MW shortbow if no one has any issues. GM: what's Slasher's health status? I don't think he's fully healed but I would like to at least leave him with light wounds 75%+ of hit points.

no prisoners or bodies?

Balthus looked at Amund and stated, "We need to make camp. That boy is spent. Heck, I've seen logs more awake than he is."

The ranger started to look for ways to make the camp secure in case any bugbears were coming.

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survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14