Merus Lebeda's page

Too sick and depressed and terrified to game right now... expect I'll be gone a day or two while I process recent events.. I WILL be back.

Why?>

wow, no updates for me either.

Well, that tears it. I guess we give them a taste of the steel first.
With that, Merus moves forward to attack the same crow as Aramil, screaming a loud banshee-like yell at the bird as he approaches.

Init: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24

demoralize: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (18) + 12 = 30
attack: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (9) + 14 = 23
damage: 1d8 + 11 ⇒ (3) + 11 = 14

Merus listens to the byplay, paying special attention to the developing antagonism between Christian and Coalhouse. The cries from the mist make him wary, but he does not bother to worry much until they reveal themselves. Despite Christian's admonition, Merus draws his blade and keeps it down by his side in a nonthreatening manor. After all, they are here due to a hostile action and Rupert is missing.

Also, you don't figure long term travel by tactical speed. They have the travel speeds for overland travel listed in the Core Rulebook.

Thank you, and yes, pure coincidence :)

Merus doesn't wait for an engraved invitation and immediately vaults up the table and over the wall.

acrobatics: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (20) + 15 = 35

And he does it with style!! :)

"Damned fine illusion if that's what you think it is, I just missed it. It seems real enough to me." Merus shouts back.
"Don't worry about me, I am actually better off engaged in melee anyhow."

As Merus failed his Will save (if it IS an illusion), he must act as if he thinks the raven is real.

Sorry that you feel that way. This is the way I created the characters to be. I will try to tone it done for you but I feel that would take away from the charactes. If you feel that strongly about the military aspect of my character this would be a perfect time to speak up as I can kill the characters off and move on to another game. No harm no foul. I am not offended in the least.

The problem isn't him being a military character, the issue is the completely modern (and thus out of character) jargon. Things like the phonetic alphabet only exist because of radio. Other terms like "exfil" also are modern inventions. There is plenty of medieval military jargon to use...

That being said, you can do as you like, I was just pointing out how jarring it is to the "mien" of the game as it is so anachronistic.

Btw, the modern military jargon (much of which wouldn't even exist as they are based on modern tech) really detracts from the medieval fantasy setting...

Will save: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17

Sorry for the delay, spent the weekend pretty sick.
Preception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12

At the warning shout, Merus is once again alert after being lulled by the hours of planning. He moves towards the giant raven dodging the last few feet to avoid its reach, drawing his sword as he approaches. He then quickly lashes out at the bird, however he does so very defensively as he is unsure of the level of the threat...

Well, let's see if it is actually an illusion after all.

Acroabatics to avoid AoO: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (3) + 15 = 18
attack vs raven: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20
damage: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (3) + 5 = 8

Knowledge nobility: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (3) + 10 = 13

Merus steps forward immediately and takes the proffered pen. Signing with a flourish, he sets the pen down and steps back.
"Bold words indeed. If you mean what you say, then I can perhaps intervene on your behalf with the nobility of Rostland. They would welcome an ally of that sort to their South. It would help us to have their aid."

Merus walks up to the meeting place alone and apparently unconcerned. He watches the exchanges between the Hellknight and the others, then continues into the meeting. He glances around taking note of each person. He gives a quick bow to Rupert and settles towards the back of the crowd.

Merus is ready too, he will go armed, but alone.

Merus walks to the camp for the meeting deep in thought.

Perhaps I have let my hatred of the Surtovas cloud my judgement. There may be opportunities here that I have not foreseen. The Khavortorovs are boys playing at a man's game, but they seem earnest and honest in their good nature. I may even have to give "King" Rupert a chance.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18

Merus frowns slightly, unsure if he is being conned, but decides to go with it.

After a second, Merus smiles. "A drink sounds good!" I will gladlyshow you the difference in the disarm technique."

Turning to Michael, "I apologize for the insults, they are just a tactic i my fighting style to try and provoke rash mistakes from my opponent."

The duel is against Merus, not Christian, Christian is the second.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23

"Well, Michael, time for your lesson. I am, after all, no mere jilted husband nor angry father." Merus taunts as he prepares for the duel.

initiative: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (17) + 7 = 24

Merus deftly disarms Michael, cutting Michael's hand in the process.
"Michael, one must hold on to one's weapon if he wishes to duel." Merus continues to taunt.

So both meetings are after the duel?

Merus fades to the back and catches Stefan's attention. When he is close he whispers,
"Be sure to let your contacts spread the "independent" nature of Rupert's requests for oaths to King Noleski. Noleski is almost as paranoid of his power in house as he is of his power externally. As to Rupert, he displays the typical arrogance of a Surtova, but perhaps he is an ally in the making. Wouldn't that be a nice twist."

He did say "his House" :). At least I got to make him look petty in front of this crowd :) I do have the trait "bruising intellect" for a reason :)

"Ah, my apologies, I had not realized you are splitting from House Surtova and founding a new dynasty. How ambitious! Then by all means, my oath stands for your new House. May your endeavor be successful!"
Merus bows deeply.

Let that little exchange reach back to the Dragonscale throne Merus thinks to himself.

Merus looks taken a back.

But your Majesty, I did exactly as you asked, I personally swore loyalty to your House? If you wished more, you should have asked for such."

I did, "I too swear my loyalty to House Surtova and pledge my blade to the successful conquest of the Stolen Lands" I was saying that I followed my uncle's path.

Also, remember, I am first so I do not have the benefit of any of the others going after me. He said, "Today I think have the right persons for it in front of me, and I ask to them: Are you willing to stand by me? Are you willing to swear loyalty to my house?"
I did exactly as he asked, swore loyalty to his House.

OK, here goes the rewind :)

Merus approaches Rupert and bows.

"As my uncle, head of House Lebeda, I too swear my loyalty to House Surtova and pledge my blade to the successful conquest of the Stolen Lands. May the new kingdom prosper under your leadership. As such, I promise to not damage Michael too much later tonight."

He then backs away so the others can come forward and swear their oaths. He looks like he has bitten something sour, but since he normally looks that way, who is to know any better?

Ok, I see where I got the misconception. I just went back and reread the recruitment decree.

GM, this means I need to retcon my interaction based on the "secret" we talked about. I will redo my interaction if you want. I thought the Coursers were a completely separate exploring party. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

It was my understanding that there are several groups going into the Stolen Lands. Rupert's is only one of those. Is my understanding incorrect?

Also, realize that Merus is putting on a show for the Rostlander nobility. He is interested in their reactions to his little display.

Missed your response, sorry.

"Well, fortunately, I won't be accompanying your expedition. I am but a hired guard for a different one. But fear not, I will always serve the interests of Rostland and would do nothing to bring harm to the kingdom, your transparent machinations notwithstanding."

With that Merus bows the precise minimum needed and backs away.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (10) + 10 = 20

Merus approaches Rupert and does a minimal bow.
"House Lebeda is a loyal ally of the Dragonscale Throne. No doubt my uncle, as well as my father, bind themselves to this pledge."

He then awaits the response that he expects.

If you would allow an old warhorse to interject some intel. Looking at merus, christian continues once a proper amount of time has elapsed and Merus gives his consent.
This is my observation of you two. You both are roughly the same height and you both will have roughly the same reach....many of the Khavortorov's are experts with the Aldori dueling sword. I do not know what you wield but I would stick with something that is about 40 inches or more. Now as to what magic he has enchanted in his weapon..I could not begin to tell you, but with these facts in mind..your reach and weapons are not an issue. What is an issue is the magic he has in his weapon and speed. Michael is a large man and
Khavortorov are known to be hot tempered, use this to your advantage. It would not surprise me in the least if he jumped in head first to end this quick. The Aldori Swords are not design for strength as much as they are for the quickness of a person.
You are the dueling expert, I am not. This is my observation as a simple soldier.
Christian smiles softly and places his hand on the shoulder of merus.
Remember we are all after the same goal here...So be gentle with him.

"They are somewhat proficient, but I am no random jilted husband or angry father. They are dilettantes, I am a professional. However, nothing is ever certain, luck can intervene in the most annoying ways sometimes. I will do my best to not actually kill him."

Christian turns back to merus...
Would you care to join me as I make a few other arrangements... His smile has returned, but there is a underlying look of concern.

"Certainly. I would like to meet your compatriots and make sure they have no reservations about Stefan and I."

Merus waits for an opportune moment to talk to Stefan.
"See what you can find about Michael's fighting style and dueling habits. That way I can see if there is anything I'm missing."

Merus' knowledge of Michael from nobility reputation?
knowledge (nobility): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14

Got it! This gives Christian a chance to respond as well.

Umm. I thought we had no weapons here?

Merus Lebeda wrote:

"I long to test my sword against such threats as lately the competition around here has been rather weak."

Sorry, somehow I missed that! And thanks, I was dying for a challenge like that.

The last remaining of the Four swords, a big smiling fellow, approaches Merus. He stands in front of him, and bows ceremoniously.
"Michael Khavortorov at your service. If you need a lesson in swordsmanship, I am willing to provide one for you, free of charge!"

"Are you sure you can afford to begin this venture injured? I would hate to put a crimp in Lord Aldori's plans." Merus replies with thinly veiled sarcasm.

Turning to Christian, Merus asks, "Lord D'Elegante, I would be honored if you would act as my second."

Just waiting to see if any of the Four Swords reacted to my slight of them.

"Perhaps it is best that we can discuss arrangements in a less conspicuous place. I will gladly take you up on your offer to join your encampment though." Merus replies. He then keeps an eye on the Four Swords to see if his barb hit the mark.

Merus watches the byplay and wisely decides to stay out of whatever differences there seems to be among the two of them.

Returning the proffered handshake, Merus smiles politely and responds, "Well met good sir, A rather loaded question for such a gathering, though I wouldn't have put it so indelicately as the lady did."
He then leans in and speaks in a low voice.
"Rest assured, I am a loyal Rostlander and no friend of the Surtovas despite the family name I bear."
Once again speaking in a normal voice, "As to my intentions for the Stolen Lands, why adventure and glory, of course! What more fitting way to make a name for oneself. All manner of beasties and bandits inhabit the area."
He then speaks louder in a deliberate attempt to be overheard and looks specifically at the Four Swords.
"I long to test my sword against such threats as lately the competition around here has been rather weak."

"You do realize the precarious position we are in at the moment? Please don't worsen it by saying something inappropriate to the man, or especially the woman." Merus replies with some mild reproach.

With a nod to the group he was talking to, Merus begins to head toward Christian.

"How typical of the Surtovas, butting in to other people's matters unasked and unwanted." Merus replies to the noble that spoke.
"One can only hope that his part in this is unsuccessful."

If I notice him trying to get my attention, I will make my way over to him to speak with him.

Merus observes the byplay for awhile before moving up to some of the gathered Restov nobility. He is particularly looking for his "patron".

"It seems Rudolph has made his decision on where his 'loyalties' lie." Merus says sotto voce to a few of the more trustworthy Rostlanders as he points with his drink towards the Aldori nobleman.
"It will make the coming expedition interesting to say the least."

I will wait for the response

I already said in the game thread that we aren't bringing weapons

Back at their pavilion

Merus tossed a bundle to Stefan.
"There you go, some proper attire for tonight."

Catching the package, Stefan smirked.
"Ah, so I finally have become respectable?"

Merus laughed.
"Let's not ahead of ourselves. Also, no weapons, I mean that, Stefan."

Frowning, Stefan replied, "That hardly seems fair. There will be mages there, are they having there hands bound and mouths gagged? Surely a simple knife for eating is allowed?"

"Getting this far was a chore as it is, we cannot afford to muck it up now. Best behavior, Stefan, and NO weapons." Merus answered.

Merus strolled through the camps as they prepared for their expeditions looking with a critical eye at the various levels of competence.

"So, do you still intend to crash the party?" his older companion asked.

"Of course, Stefan." Replied Merus, "To miss such an opportunity is unthinkable. It just remains to be seen which group will gain the benefit of our company. I think the Coursers will be our best bet. However, given the reputation of their leader, I think we will be best served to keep some of the details of your past to ourselves."

Stefan snorted, "You've got that right! He seems to lack some perspective in that area. I'm surprised you aren't leaning towards the Aldori camp."

Merus laughed.
"That probably wouldn't work well. A couple of them are almost as good as me and would probably try to prove something. Besides, that seems to be a purely Khavortorov family affair. I doubt I'd be that welcome. No, the Coursers are our best fit. I will get ready for the dinner. You scout out the various groups and see what details you can find."

Stefan bowed sarcastically and said, "As you command Lord Lebeda."

"Oh do stop that. We don't need to stir things up quite yet. Wait until we have a firm commitment."

Which group is Merus and Stefan in?

I updated Merus' profile. My initial build only used 16k gp instead of 24k.

Obviously Merus and Stefan would fit in the Restov group (although Stefan could have ties from before he moved here from Varisia).

Are the groups going to be split up by level also? Mixing 7th level with 5th level might be problematic.

Merus is actively plotting against the Surotova's. Stefan is a slightly redeemed criminal. So...

^^This exactly^^

Yeah in a fight without magic a magus will lose. But that is sort of the point of being a magus. A fighter against a magus with magic, the fighter will lose. A melee fighter is no good against a magus, magus don't have to get close. A ranged fighter will lose because they can get close with ease. But that is only putting it in the most basic terms, alot of factors go in and their is no catch all answer for any of it.

What I can say now is that Sacha can fly at will, to escape or close the distance, add a +20 to her first attack when she makes it, and heal herself. To name a few tricks, she is one tough and cunning cookie. Beware. ;)

Oh, I agree, but at higher levels the magic becomes less of an advantage as the fighter will have gear that counters its effectiveness. Also, at high level, I can cause all of your insight, competence and moral bonuses to be suppressed for 10 rounds, True strike is an insight bonus. I completely shut down Barbarians. There is a neck item that essentially gives me the Aura of Cowardice ability, it costs 35,000 (if I remember correctly), once I have that I don't have to worry about fear immunity anymore.