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Sigh. I'm sorry to be so slow recently. I'm in the midst of a brutal writing phase at work + some back to back travel and house guests. I'm happy to head back to town, get the whole party together, and get moving. I'll try to keep up better, but in the near term I'm still not going to be at my best because of my work writing demands. Thanks for understanding!
Kezra gives Tera's wings an envious gaze. "I've hunted with hawks, but never taken to the wind myself." With a grin and a nod, she adds, "If you have a caravan headed off into the wilds, you'll need a good guide...and I'm in need of a bit of fresh air; this town has grown stuffy. "I'd be happy to come with you, at least for a ways."
I don't think Tera has introduced himself (or been introduced by someone else) to Kezra yet, if you want to play that out. I was waiting to reply to the other intros until Tera got a chance to say something.
Kezra rolls her eyes at the muscled warrior. She collects her arrows, refilling her quiver, and then walks over toward the altar. As she does, she turns to the company she finds herself in. "Well, I heard someone was out to hunt unnatural dangers. I'm glad I caught up in time to share in the glory. Not to mention"--she grins at Gorn--"keeping you from getting yourself killed." She dusts her hands off on her camouflaged leathers and offers a hand to the crew. Lalleath comes over and nuzzles his head against her hip. "Anyway, I'm Kezra Tern. Best hunter in twenty leagues. Who exactly are you, and what brings you here?"
Kezra groans. Turning to Vanadin she asks, "He can see the arrow sticking out of it's forehead, right?"
Kezra breaks out in a belly laugh at Gorn's comment. "The steel was a most appreciated assist, but did you happen to notice the Manticore fell to an ARROW through it's skull? If you want to get technical, I suppose you could praise FLINT too." As Vanadin whacks an elver away from her shin, Kezra adds, "And speaking of assists, thanks Vanadin. I imagine a bite from one of those would be unpleasant."
Glancing with dismay at her spilled arrows, Kezra draws her sword and hustles up behind Vanadin, attempting to sever a snake's head. Turning to her cougar she says, "Ready...now!" Lalleath spooks one of the elvers, driving it right toward Kezra's blade.
"Dammit!" the ranger spits as she sees the precious contents of her quiver spilt on the ground. Despite her frustration, her shot rings true, hitting the manticore in the face for the second time. "Haha! Let the glory and beauty of Kezra's BOW be known throughout this fair land."
Kezra shouts "Dive!" to her cougar Lalleath, and they attempt to dive as one behind a nearby boulder. As she doe, Kezra attempts to keep her bow trained on the Manticore.
No worries. Have a great trip!
Tezra's arrow flies through the clearing and smacks the manticore's head backward. "BAM!", she crows with pride.
An elvish woman with sharp golden eyes, wild red hair, and a bow in hand steps silently out of the brush beside you. At her side is a cougar, which purrs in greeting. "Ho! You three are easier to track than a dozen limping cattle. Looks like I made it just in time too--don't tell me you were going to feed yourselves to that manticore and his plant-eels without me? "If it's 'Hail and kill' time, prepare to be wowed by the blazing speed of ARROW!" Kezra grins at the hulking warrior, as she nocks an arrow and raises her bow. "Let's see if I can stun that beast for you before you go ram your head against it."
Hey Volsung, I ended up recently changing my backstory a bit, assuming this works for you.
OK, the details of my motivation and backstory have shifted a bit--partly due to Cylus's inspiration, so thank you! . . . Kezra Tern is an Elven ranger with Sharp Eyes, Wild Hair, and a Lithe Body, traveling in Camouflage clothes that blend with the forest. She travels with her cougar companion, Lalleath . Kezra grew up in the woods between Concave and some smaller settlements, where she was quickly developing a reputation as a hunter. This year was her first chance to enter the annual hunting competition and she was eager to prove herself. At the end of the day she (together with her cougar Lalleath) had taken down a record haul: five pheasants, a stag, and a wild boar. Kezra stood, beaming, ready for to be awarded first prize...only to be told that she’d been disqualified due to an obscure rule no one remembered which stated that cougars were disallowed as hunting companions. Instead, the first prize went to a halfling slinger who’d brought in one beaver and four ducks. Kezra suspects a fix but at this point is just fed up and ready to leave town...and prove her mettle in the wild. . . . Her profile and status bar are all set, and I'm ready to join the fun whenever makes sense. I'm happy to be out ranging and run into the group at some cinematic point...or to meet the gang when they're back in town. BTW, Cylus, I'll leave up to you if you were involved in the (presumed) hunting games fix. You're welcome to have even been the judge, if you want more backstory together. On the extreme end of entanglement, it might be amusing to have Kezra join the party to get away from you (and Conclave in general)...only to have you show up minutes after she's agreed to join them. Alternately, I'm happy to leave it as them having had no interaction and just being suspicious due to his demeanor. Either way, I'm looking forward to diving in!
Now, Gorn, we are off to slay a manticore. Oooh Oooh! Maybe we'll get to have a dramatic last minute appearance to turn the tide of the ascendant manticores!
Hey Volsung, no rush but I wanted to make sure you saw this question.
Gorn...we'll see about that! ;-) DM Volsung, the ranger's starting gear is either:
I was wondering if I could chose a precise short sword?
Hey DM & gang, thanks for the vote of faith! I'll get a full character sheet made for Kezra soon, and hope to finish catching up on Gameplay as well. Here's her (under construction) alias to start. While I'm here, Vanadin (or DM or anyone) have an interesting idea for fleshing out my bond with Vanadin? My first thought: Does his light remind me of something? (ideas welcome!) Cylus, I'm excited you made it in too--your backstory is great. Cheers,
Cool, welcome back!
TSP, glad to see you back. Are you waiting for something from us before moving things forward?
Kezra chuckles, floating along above the efreet and his old companions. "Hey, I like to think of myself as your and Aren's magnum opus." Though his face is a mass of stars on black space, it's clear from his tone that he's grinning. "Anyway, I'm happy to say I don't bore as easily as poor Hanuhpah here. For myself...I think it's fair to say I'm a bit more exciting than the average spec of infinitesimal dust. "I've raided the lost tomb of Hurlik Tul, Mummy King of Gohal and the jeweled palace of Tiktukfurkkut, Twin-headed Demon Lord of Discord. I met Hanuhpah, Ferun, Aren, and the Kommandar when we worked together on a raid in the all-but-dead plane of Avidarel, where-- (Kezra nods toward Aren and Hanuhpah) --these two managed to save my life and help me to, ahem, expand my horizons, as it were." Pausing, he adds "As to what attracted your honored uncle's attention...well I have no idea. If I had to hazard a guess it could relate to Avidarel in some way, only because that's the last time all of us were together...though I've seen the brothers more recently."
Kezra floats along behind Aren, noticing her healing antics and chuckling. "Aren, I never will understand why you insist on pretending you aren't mighty yourself. realize you're the one healing those people, right? Do you try to hide it from them only, or yourself too?" After a pause he adds, "It seems our glorious sultan isn't confused about your abilities either. I must say, I'm getting quite curious what he's brought us here for..."
Kommandar, I wish you the best, and a speedy return to the things you love!
Hey, Mythic-madness question: Benefit: Whenever you use Vital Strike, Improved Vital Strike, or Greater Vital Strike, multiply the Strength bonus, magic bonus, and other bonuses that would normally be multiplied on a critical hit by the number of weapon damage dice you roll for that feat. When this item deals damage, its user can use mythic power to double the total amount of damage it deals. If the attack is a normal attack, the bearer can expend one use of legendary power to double the total amount of damage. If the attack is a confirmed critical hit, the bearer must instead expend two uses of legendary power to double the total damage. Damage from weapon special abilities (such as flaming) and precision-based damage are also doubled. This ability can be applied only to weapons. An item must be a minor or major artifact to have this ability. Kezra's standard attack is (2d6+49/15-20+17 precision+23 bleed). Without a crit, vital strike, or any other boosts, his average damage is 7+49 = 56 + 17 precision +23 bleed = 96. On a vital strike, that's 56x4=216+40 = 256 If he adds foe-biting, does that make it 512?
"By all means!" Kezra floats forward behind the Efreet, not bothering to move his legs.
Hey TSP, great to see you back! I know you're catching up on multiple fronts. When you get to it, I'm totally curious to hear about the template you were thinking of for Kezra. Less important but also curious, how're you doing advancement? One of the XP tracks? Just when it fits in the story? ...and yeah, the minute I typed the words about how hard it is for me to conceive what it's going to take to challenge us, I immediately thought "Oh, I'm going to rue these words some day, aren't I?" ;-)
We used the same rules RVT did in he Echoes of the Sephira campaign (where you're playing Ice King Petrov, right?) The only difference I'm aware of I'd that in RVT's campaign template take up both sides of the gestalt (or two levels on one side) for every CR. Here it's just 1 level on 1 side of the gestalt for every 1 CR.
Yeah, I don't doubt for a second that TSP will be able to kick our butts. I think my post can be read as "nothing will ever be able to challenge us" but what was going through my brain was more of "I'm totally curious -- and excited -- to see what/how he challenges us". I'm crystal clear that TSP has played and run a ton of Pathfinder at this level so I'm sure he's got plenty of tricks up his sleeve...but that doesn't mean my mind isn't blown a little bit when I realize what Kezra (or any of us, I suspect) can do. ;-) Zashier, are you playing in RVT's version of this campaign as well? Looking forward to reviewing your character when it's complete...and glad to see an Archmage in the party. BTW, I made a Google Sheet compiling each god-to-be's domains. I've left the Kommander on it for now in the hopes that he returns...and added columns for Zashier and the GMPC-who-might-or-might-not-be-Khalid-ibn'Ignaaris.
As I've probably said before, this'll be my first time playing Pathfinder at anything near this kind of power level. (I played AD&D at these kind of levels...but it's been a while.) I just started comparing Kezra to various biggies: Tarrasque, Orcus, Lucifer. Holy Crow! I know I shouldn't get cocky quite yet but....what exactly do you plan to put in front of us that'll challenge us? Assuming a fair fight (we both see each other and then roll for initiative) and average rolls, Kezra can take down a Tarrasque or Orcus by himself in 2 rounds a piece, or 1 if he spends some mythic power. Lucifer would be tougher, taking maybe 4 rounds (or 2, if he spends MP). If Lucifer and Orcus got married, bought a pet Tarrasque, took a few rounds to buff up, and then the three launched a surprise attack on Kezra...he'd be in trouble, but has a reasonable chance to emerge victorious. ...And I suppose this begs the question of character advancement. Are we using an XP track to level up? I know that gestalt characters are always way more powerful than the norm for their level, so XP advancement can go by fast...but it looks to me like (on the medium advancement track) a single challenging encounter will add multiple levels. BTW, I'm still excited to see your idea for a template for Kezra!
Totally open to ideas! Happy to hear that your buddies are trying to cheer you up. I'll be curious to hear about the template whenever you're able. Thanks.
I found a WotW campaign of yours but not a WotR. The WotW thread has no mention of "stars" or "moonchild". (I searched.) Anyway, I think it probably doesn't make sense to go with a caster class -- it's not really my vision for him, and everyone else is a caster anyway -- though the book still sounds like fun so I'd love a link whenever convenient. Aren, thanks for the suggestion of the Swordlord. Definitely considered it! In the end I decided to:
Profile (and stat line) are updated to the new newness! It plays to my strengths and fits my image of who he is (and is becoming). I considered a spell-less Paladin for a bit because it has so many mechanical benefits for him...but it really doesn't fit flavor-wise. TSP, let me know your thoughts about a way for a Huge Kezra to shrink when needed. Thanks!!
Cool, I'd love a link if you don't mind.
Ok, I'm considering options for my six extra levels. One option, upgrade to Elder gravity elemental from Large. That gives me stronger gravity powers, and increases BAB, HD, and abilities. One concern, I'd be Huge, ~30' tall. i assume I'd need a way to shrink down to at least large, maybe medium, to get into places... And RAW Reduce Person doesn't work on me because I'm an outsider. TSP, could I have a custom item that let me shrink? Or have that ability included in my mythic scimitar? Another option that's interesting is the Godling PrC. ... And I'm sure there are a ton of fun options I haven't thought of so if you want to help me Pimp My Cosmic Godling, any of y'all are welcome to suggest stuff. I'm inclined not to go spellcaster since everyone else in the party is at least half caster... Though it's possible I'll change my mind on that. TSP, I remember you mentioned some very cosmic classes. Can you remind me where to find them?
TSP, you said "Template CRs count as class levels on a 1-1 basis". Do you mean 1 CR counts as one level on one side of the gestalt (like one monster level does)? Or like it takes one level on both sides (or two on one side)? The build rules we got from RVT were the latter. (Monster levels exchange 1:1, but templates exchange 2:1.) So as an example, Kezra is a CR 5 elemental with +6 CR of templates (mighty, advanced). the 5 CR took up 5 levels on the left side of his gestalt, and his six templates took up the next 12 levels on that side of the gestalt. I could have instead had the 6 CR of templates take up 6 levels on each side, if I'd wanted to. (Obviously it's your game now so if you want different rules that's cool, I just want to make sure I understand!) Also, Io raises the question: are you using any one cosmology as the basis for yours? Or is the cosmology homebrewed, but might take elements (like Io) from various established settings?
Welcome Zashier!
Kezra turns his head at the dragon's booming voice. "Khalid Ibn'Ignaaris, third-removed nephew to our glorious Sultan, this here is Hanupah, a mighty shaman of the -- oh, I always forget their name -- and his brother Ferun, the savage storm. This here is Kommandar Killjoy, a great general and a mean shot...and his leutenant, Gabberjabber. And of course you've already met Aren. We've all known each other from various adventures on and off over the years and were recently reunited here by the will of the honored Sultan." "We can chat more but I believe Hanupah speaks for all of us in this. Our curiosity is piqued as well so if you would be so good as to introduce us to your uncle, you would have our sincere appreciation."
Hearing the question, Kezra floats over and looks the massive efreet up and down. He bows his head in greeting, "Honored Khalid. I am Kezra Tern, sometimes called The Shooting Star. "We have been summoned here, it seems by your glorious Sultan." He holds up the brass star medallion given to him by the previous Efreeti. "I believe he's calling in a favor, but what precisely he desires I have no idea. Might you have any insight into your uncle's desires?"
Does this mean you've selected your character? ;-) Or is Khalid ibn'Ignaaris an NPC?
Hehehehe, you should of course play the Efreet so that you can grant us 3 wishes / day! ;-) Seriously though, just pick the thing that you think makes for the best game for all involved. Happy to trust your lead. I still don't really know how much the domains will matter, but if it helps your brainstorming, here's the list of domains / PC, with column A showing which domains are unclaimed. (A longer list, now that Naga and Teresa are gone.)
If a GMPC will make you happy, go for it! Looking forward to seeing what you come up with... And what we all have in store for us.
Bantering with Hanupah and Ferun, Kezra shakes his head. "I'll admit the search for the phylactery was tedious, but what about the battle before that, eh? We come over the pass and see an army of monstrous undead led by two 30 foot tall nightwalkers beating a drum made of human flesh. Ferun was glorious, throwing himself onto the pair of nightwalkers, both twice his size...and the cunning way you dealt with that horde of wights and bloody ogre skeletons blew me away. I knew you were devious...but really I had no idea. And as to myself, I’ll admit I had myself a fine time overhead, carving up their pack of zombie drakes. Don’t tell me you weren’t pleased with that part. And what about th--” Kezra stops midsentence when what appears to be the final dragon alights and he sees a familiar goblin dismount. ”Kommandar, you old rascal! Good to see you. And yes, by all means, if you see me approaching any mirror ever, you have my leave to shoot first and ask questions later.” The giant swath of night chuckes. ”You know, if only Naga were here it would be a full on reunion from our Avidarel run. I wonder...clearly it’s no coincidence that all of us have been summoned here. I’ve been scanning the sky though and don’t see any more dragons on the horizon. Anyway, do any of you have insight into our Patron? I get more curious by the minute.”
Five works great for me!
I'm glad it's moving too! At this point I'm assuming we're a party of five (though I'd of course be happy to see Naga show up.) Have you heard any reply to your PMs? Does a party of 5 (or 6) work for you? (I certainly see no problem with it, and it's hard to imagine many holes in what this group could accomplish!)
Sounds good to me! BTW, I link to my tracking & notes sheet in my status line...but just noticed that it wasn't actually shared yet. Everyone should be able to view it now. This is one of the most complex character I've played, and I have a feeling this doc'll help me to manage my choices and resources much better than without it. ;-) Questions/suggestions welcome.
Kommandar, I hope you're feeling more yourself soon! Best wishes in the mean time. Gang, I seem to remember that several folks chose Nemesis for their Story Feat. Hanupah & Ferun (or anyone for that matter), if you chose Nemesis, have you already spelled your nemesis out? I haven't and am happy to share mine with anyone interested. Pretty flexible on who it is and what the backstory is. If you don't have anything you're going for, I just made up a lich queen, Essufeh, who could certainly be fleshed out to fit the bill. (Alternately, she can just be a throwaway detail...I was mostly wanting to establish that we've adventured together on and off since we first met. GM, happy to have you take as much or little hand as you want in nemesis creation. Whadda y'all say?
Descending out of the sky comes another ruby dragon. This one appears at first to be riderless but as it gets closer those already gathered see a man-shaped swath of night sky twinkling above the dragons shoulders. Soon, it's clear to those that know him that Kezra Tern has arrived. He floats rather than steps off of the dragons back and, absentmindedly, his feet don't quite manage to make it back to the ground. Kezra stands eleven feet tall and (while he roughly retains his former human shape) he appears less like a man and more like a window into another world: an inky blackness filled with tiny points of light and swirling nebulae. Light itself seems to shimmer and distort as it approaches him. While it’s difficult to read his expressions, there’s no mistaking his laugh -- a warm, merry rumble. ”Whoah ho, well met! This patron of ours seems to have quite a sense of humor, gathering us together in the same place again. Aren, I haven’t seen you since that glorious tomb raid on Avidarel...though I keep hearing tales of you ‘happening’ to be around when deeds of great heroism are being done. “Hanupah and Ferun, when was the last time for you two? Oh! Hunting down the lich-queen Essufeh, right? That was some adventure! “How many years has it been since we’ve all been together though, in the Dead Plane? Seeing all three of you in one place...I can remember falling into that cosmic mirror like it was yesterday...and then waking to you two, Aren and Hanupah, having somehow managed to put me together.” With another belly laugh he notes, ”Mostly back together anyway, eh? Where in the Cosmic Riddle my mass went, only the Gods know. I swear I can’t keep my feet on the ground anymore to save my life.” Scanning the horizon he exclaims, ”Ah, here comes another dragon! Maybe we’re not yet all gathered quite yet. What kind of odds would you give me if I wagered we’ll know whoever’s on that one too?”
Cool! Is Naga here with us (as a character and our as a player)?
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