Gheris Summit's page

Looked over everything, and I think it would be an interesting game to run. I should note that my approach to games as a GM is a bit different than RR's, for good or bad. I'm much more demanding when it comes to game pace, and would expect everyone to be able to make at least one post a day during the week. My weekend posting is spotty, but I usually get in something most mornings when I am able.

I'd likely implement a number of house rules as well. All fairly minor, but I want to be as transparent as possible. I don't see any real challenges based on how you all have been in the past. And since I'm familiar with the posting habits of at least three of you from when I was in the game before, I think we will be fine.

So if everyone is good, I'll ask RR to swing control of the threads over to me and we can try to pick up where he left off as best as possible. For the sake of my own sanity I'll probably be a little heavy handed with getting Lucius joined up with the party to keep things simple.

Yep, I'm fine with an unchained rebuild. Far more viable honestly.

Same for anyone else. Since we are likely switching gears, and it sounds like the popular vote is to keep things at a 4 man group, I'm ok with a rebuild or tweak to adjust your character to help fill the gaps. If Krojun wanted to flip from bard to skald I am good with that, but that might go against the archtype idea is he working on.

RR, if your schedule shakes itself out, you know there will always be a place for you!

I'll be doing some reading tonight and will update accordingly tomorrow.

As far as party size goes, what are everyone's thoughts? Its a simple enough matter to tailor encounters up or down based on size, its really more important if you all want to keep things as is or if you want to add another player, likely someone with a healing focused role, or at least enough additional healing to support Staryth.

RR, you know how I am about cracking the whip on my games when it comes to posting activity. You ready to sign up for that? :) Plus haven't you already read through the AP by now?

Let me read through the AP tonight, make sure it is something that would keep my interest enough from a GM side to run. I'd hate to take it on and only find that the source material wasn't something I was a big fan of. RR, if you would send me whatever you have in where you've diverted from the plot, and I'll see what I have to work with.

Doh!

I understand, real life can sometimes grab us by the short and curlies and refuse to let go. It happens.

While I'm not very familiar with the AP, I can probably take on the GM role if you all can give me some time to read through it and prep some stuff, as well as understand that this would be my 4th game to run and I could be slow with updates as time, as my other three have to remain priority.

I leave it up to the group.

"Personally? I have a lot to offer. First, I can provide some financial backing. I've made quite a living conning suckers out of their hard earned cash. I offered them 'healing' in exchange for donations to my 'faith'. I can also be your front-man, since like I mentioned I have a certain way with words."

Gheris remains purposefully quiet. He had already understood enough about his fast-talking acquaintance to know that the man had a gift for words on the fly that he could not hope to match. Opening his mouth might only endanger their position, and he well understood what his strengths and weaknesses were. He remains calm in the face of the thugs, appearing neither threatening nor cowed by their speech.

Can I pull off a knowledge local to understand a little about this Lamm person? Obviously while Ruke may have been familiar with the guy, Gheris is not.

Knowledge, Local: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

Eww, I suck. Nevermind! :)

"Well, a bit of this and that, you know. Little lambs sometimes find themselves a bit short in certain areas, if you get my meaning. But the man was a bore, and a bit of a louse." the man says, trying to be as obscure as possible. "Obviously my talents are not those of a common street thug." he says, patting the obviously dangerous looking wand at his belt.

Wanted to let everyone know I am heading out of town for the weekend. I should be able to post an update later this afternoon, but my availability will be limited for the next couple days.

"You can call me Hymie" the half-elf says, nodding to his companion, "We heard there was work to be had here, and we'd like to get in on the action."

Bluff: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (18) + 5 = 23

Couldn't resist adding another Get Smart reference. I'm showing my age, ugh! :)

"Well hello there birdie bird, aren't you a pretty boy?" the man says, rummaging through his belt pouch, looking for a treat. "Birdie want a cracker?" he asks, obviously not overly concerned with Tern's statement. If they were here under cover, then he wouldn't be the first one to make an aggressive move. Not that he was an impressive or dominating specimen of a man to begin with, so no sense putting on airs at the moment.

Ok sorry, can't help it, I have two cockatoos and talking to birds is kind of a bad habit of mine that immediately spilled over into my character. They are too darn cute.

How many exp is a Dire Counter worth anyway? I couldn't find it in the Bestiary. :)

Having won the battle with the counter of unspeakable prowess, Gheris makes himself ready for whatever is on the other side of the door. With luck, it would be their objective. However, it could be an unspeakably evil file cabinet, and their entire mission would be in jeopardy.

Glad my poor character's pain can be a source of amusement for you RR! :)

Gazing at the counter, and refusing to admit defeat, Gheris slowly approaches the enemy and takes his time boosting himself up before slowly swinging over the obstacle and finally letting himself down on the other side. "I've fought city guards that were less trouble than that." he states, trying to maintain is cover as well as keep some sense of dignity over the debacle.

Yea, I wish it was as simple as taking 10. :) Maybe RR will let me take 20 since there's no danger of me falling and killing myself!

Displaying his acrobatics process in a spectacular leap, Gheris attempts to vault the counter...

Acrobatics: 1d20 - 6 ⇒ (6) - 6 = 0

...failing miserably and falling on his rear. "Well, I never claimed to be agile." he comments, standing up and dusting off his pride.

Thinking to take a different approach, he moves up to the counter and attempts to climb over the wooden barricade which prevents him from getting at his objective...

Climb: 1d20 - 5 ⇒ (9) - 5 = 4

...but he is foiled by an adversary as simple as a wooden counter.

"Got a backup plan?" he smirks, reminding himself to fully inform future employers of his physical limitations before accepting a job.

Considering Gheris' mighty stealth skill of -6, I'd say the answer to how stealthy are we being would simply be "no". :)

Nodding to Lucius, Gheris moves towards the counters. Noticing the lock in place on the means of passage through them he turns to his companions, a questioning look on his face.

Gheris does his best to try and appear thuggish as he readies himself to follow Lucius into the old building. "Damn that kid for leading us to believe there was work to be found here, I knew he was full of beans." he says, loud enough for anyone hiding inside to make out the words. "Remind me to tan his hide when we are back that way. You think there's another way in?" he asks Lucius, maintaining the cover.

No sense trying the perception check, didn't invest in that area unfortunately!

Gheris nods to the man as he sizes up Tern. It was good to have some martial expertise for the task at hand, as he was well aware of just how willing most criminals were to throw down arms in the face of the law.

How is Tern outfitted? Weapon choice?

In agreement with Lucius, Gheris could not see them creeping quietly into the back door. "The front door it is, do you have a cover story in mind? I'll play along as best as I am able." the man says, hoping that their boldness pays off and keeps them free of any surprises.

Gheris nods to the man, "Sounds like we are decided then. Let us make our way to the area and see what our eyes tell us will be the best approach." Turning to Cressida he says, "We are on the task Captain, and we will report back in as soon as we have news."

Shouldering his pack he waits for his new companion to give the word, and the two will make for Alabaster Street.

-Citadel Volshyenek-

"I'm afraid I couldn't tell you what the nature of the goods is; we've only recently learned of their whereabouts. Suffice to say, the last time they were spotted and we sent a troop of the watch against them... we had to send a second troop to restrain the first until the confusion charm placed on them wore off. I assure you I wouldn't have called for help from the Lodge if I didn't think we'd need it. The Thatcher Brothers have had multiple brushes with the guard; they're most likely already prepared for us, which is why a team like the three of you is far better suited for this. You'll be able to take them by surprise, I'm sure."

"The best case scenario would be managing to take them in alive. That would give us a lot of information on their former dealings and accomplices. If it comes down to it, however, do not be afraid to defend yourselves. They've killed watchmen and witnesses before, and they're not afraid to do it again, I'm sure. Any illicit goods will need to be held under watch custody."

Recognizing the unappealing nature of this statement for adventurers, she then adds:

"On the other hand, the reward for their capture would be all yours, and I think you'll find it to be a pretty sizeable sum."

"As to getting into the bank, I couldn't presume to tell you how to best go about it. Catching them off-guard is exactly why I'm asking for help. They know most of my tricks by now, this is hardly my first brush with them."

Gheris nods, listening closely to the details of the request. While he wasn't experienced with infiltrating groups and was hardly one to easily blend in to a crowd, the request was simple enough. He'd been on plenty of missions with far less to go on than this, and was thankful he wouldn't be stumbling blindly into the whole thing. "Consider it done. These thugs will trouble the city no longer, and their goods will be confiscated."

Looking at the man he was to accompany, he asked "I don't suppose you know any tricks to sneak into a former bank filled with ruffians do you?"

I had a big response to this, and the boards in their ultimate wisdom of being crappy today, ate it. Out of time now, so I'll post on Monday. Sorry!

Another convention to support this weekend, so I'll be limited in posting after this until Monday. I may be able to sneak in one or two, but no promises!

Have a great weekend all!

Not sure what to think of the greeting, Gheris merely smiles and gives a short bow to the guard. Usually Pathfinders were seen by the authority as little more than troublemakers and tomb robbers, and it felt good to hear such recognition.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18
Knowledge, Local: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

Listening to the briefing intently, the half elf nods at the information and the request, this sounded like standard fare, although he thought it a small matter for one of the Korvosan guard to require assistance from the lodge. "Is the nature of the goods in question a dangerous one? Or are we talking about typical stolen and prohibited items?" the man asked, curious as to the nature of the smuggler's activity. "Is there a cover to be provided? Or do they simply welcome in strangers off of the street? Are they to be apprehended, their operation dismantled, or are you just looking for information?" he asks, somewhat unsure of their goal.

"Yea, that criminal element, always with the shenanigans." Lucius says with some sarcasm. "Name's Lucius. Kroft's a pal of mine."

Gheris nods at the man, "Lucius, it is a pleasure. I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting your friend, but I hope that we can soon remedy that." He glances at the guards, growing impatient at being kept waiting, and visibly eager to understand the nature of his mission. "Gentlemen, if you would? I believe our services have been called upon, and it would not be wise to delay."

"Hey fellas, how's it going? Your daughter feeling better?" Lucius says greeting the guards before nodding to the newcomer. "Lady Kroft call you too?" He asks Gheris.

The half-elf strides towards the gate, nodding in greeting to the two men standing guard. He still wears his traveling garb, complete with arms and armor, from his journey to Korvosa. Around his neck hangs his wayfinder, complete with the engraved Glyph of the Open Road. He turns to the man who questioned him and nods, "Indeed she has. I am to understand there have been problems with a criminal element within the city, and am here to offer my assistance in the matter. The name is Gheris, of the Society."

He waits for his greeting to be returned, curious that it appeared the aid of more than one group was called upon.

I prefer my homebrew to be mead, but I'll settle for pilsner if mead isn't available :)

FYI, leaving the office in a few to go offsite for the remainder of the day. I'll check in when I get home.

I'm fine with either the harrow or hero point system, whichever makes more sense or is easier for you to use. I think the hero point system is far more flexible and easy to use, while the harrow system continues the flavor of the AP.

Reminder for all of my games, both those I am running and those I am playing in, I am away at a convention this weekend and will likely not be posting. I will make an attempt to get online tomorrow night and post if possible, but I doubt I will have time. I will be back Sunday night.

Thanks! :)

Just let me know when its time for the new folk to jump in, all set here :)

That was an awesome scene. Nothing like a masked hero showing up to save the day! :)

Wanted to give everyone an update on my schedule for the next few weeks, since I'm about to hit convention season full stride.

I am supporting or running conventions this weekend, next weekend, and the first weekend in May. Basically what that means is I'll be doing prep in the evenings, starting tonight, and will be mostly unavailable between Friday and Sunday of those weekends.

After this spat of weekends I will also be gone the first week of June supporting Origins and the last week of July for GenCon. During those two weeks it is likely I will have no time to post, and those specific conventions run from Wednesday to Sunday.

If I'm introduced to the group by then please GMPC me as needed! :)

Worked out pretty well that while we are both charisma based casters, one is bluff focused and the other works the diplomacy angle. Hopefully that will help.

And both can make respectable healers as well as being able to toss some solid support spells around.

Groovy. Trying to catch up on the story as time permits. A lot happened since Ruke was running around on the docks with most of these guys. :)

Hmm...ploink...

Actually, he can't, encumbrance :)

Gheris continues to follow Lars, his armor making movement difficult at any real speed. He hears the shouts from ahead and realizes that a conflict at this point is a forgone conclusion. "Don't wait for me, assist the others!" the priest calls out, knowing he is only slowing the other man down.

Let me get there quickly...

Double move. Total distance covered by round 2, 80'.

Yay! Last! Makes things so simple. Hah. Since Gheris relies on limited sight and sound to determine what is going on beyond his 30' of vision he is going to have a tough time of this. Especially since the enemy is 200' away. Blind men don't run.

Gheris, shocked into action by the sudden flurry of activity, can only guess at what has gone wrong. As he moves to action the party vanishes from view one by one. As luck would have it the priest of Cayden Cailean is nearly as slow to react as he, and he marks the man's path, following him as close as possible.

The only saving grace being that Lars has the same move as Gheris. Gheris will double move in the direction that Lars is headed, his weapon ready in his hand.

Heh, for Koan. For mechanics purposes you actually won't give off any evil aura until 5th level. That pretty much goes the same for any evil creature. Even goblins and orcs don't have an aura until they hit 5 HD, unless they are clerics.

Hopefully Gheris will sway him to a little more neutral aspect before level 5. If not, well, we cross that bridge when we get there. :)

Turning to Sorek, Gheris says, "Unfortunately my limited vision will not aid us in this endeavor. While I too can sense the evil in a man, or being, it is likely at a far shorter distance than you would be capable of. Such is the will of Arqueros."

Why my sight? Of all things to take...

Ahh, the curse of Lawful Good. Sorry to be a buzzkill :)

Gheris, a little disturbed by the ease the group settles in to the idea of killing strangers, speaks up, "Are we even sure these men are the attackers? Might it be possible that someone purposefully led us to them? We assume much, but for all we know these could be travelers just like us. Shouldn't we at least send someone with a penchant for stealth to listen and observe this group a little bit closer?"

Never one for wanton bloodshed, Gheris waits, hoping the group considers his concerns.

@GM - Does the area appear to be a permanent camp or something temporary? Obviously Gheris cannot see that far, but that info could be worthwhile to the rest of the group.

Gheris chuckles at the lighthearted woman and says, "It is much appreciated, however as long as some of the group stays within a stone's throw I should be able to keep up with them. My vision clouds minute details, but I've learned to associate someone's general shape with their name and do not find myself completely lost. However I do welcome the company and, as you find yourself, I am not an able tracker either." The priest considers her last comment and adds, "Indeed he is a strong example for me to follow, but not one that is prone to humor. I have to rely on companions for that luxury, as the gods themselves have little time for jests. Such is their eternal loss though." He flashes the woman a sly grin in the darkness, showing her that he might not be all sermon and no frivolity.

Gheris moves slowly along behind the group, waiting as they pause several times and discuss the tracks they are attempting to follow, "What? What is it? Did you find them again?" Occasionally he looks back, but they have traveled far beyond the light of the fires and his eyes see only darkness.

Noooooooooo

Hmm, I don't see priest. Does the priest live? Tell me the priest lives! :)

Dammit, now I remember. The priest usually dies right around the time the killer is revealed! In a church, at the altar, surprised that the killer would come there!

Makes a note to avoid all churches and altars going forward.

Hearing the large man's words, Gheris frowns, "Foul news, foul indeed. Is the attacker suspected among our number within the camp?" He stands and brushes himself off. "I will offer my assistance if you would have it. I need a few minutes to gather my gear and strap on some armor, if they can be spared."

Barring any objections Gheris will suit up and gather his weapons, which will take 4 minutes.

Before leaving the camp, Gheris will locate the remains of the guard and offer a prayer over the body, "May your soul fly swiftly and true to the boneyard and may Pharasma look upon you with favor. Be at peace." He traces a symbol of a shield on the dead man's forehead and stands, ready to accompany the other volunteers as he moves to Thomas' side.

If possible he will quickly attempt to determine if the wound was poisoned and how surgical the attack was that caused death.

Heal Check: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9 if a roll is needed, otherwise taking 10 for 15 or 20 for 25

Oh lord, do not mention rot grubs! Bad experiences! Flashbacks! Arrg!

Gheris is just waiting until folks return to the fire, right now he really has no part in the current scene. :)

Brown-chicken brown-cow.

I chucked at the discovery. Poor Gheris, all alone by the fire while everyone goes to make peeping Tom eyes at the happy couple. :)

Personally, I'm just hoping it is someone taking a leak :P