Ostar Foehammer's page

Hi everyone! I apologize for my poor posting of late, I've had a job opportunity come up that I had to travel out of town for, as well as another life change which has limited my ability to post, and may do so in the future as well.

With my apologies, and much regret, I believe I should withdraw from this game and let someone else have a chance. You're a good bunch, and I feel bad about this, but I'd feel worse if I wasn't consistently giving this game and my fellow players the attention they deserve.

I wish you all the best of luck!

We did do well, didn't we? Ostar smiles, looking at the scratch the goblin warrior gave him. If things turn out no worse than this, we can't complain too much. But those undead .... they catch my attention. Ostar scratches his chin while thinking aloud. Why were they here? Are they another threat we should concern ourselves with? Stopping these goblins was what we set out to do, but what if these undead are an even graver concern?

Ostar smirks after a moment, amused by his own joke.

In truth, though, perhaps when we are all recovered we should investigate further?

Ostar sees Garridan's injuries and decides that healing their best fighter would be a better choice than taking his own attack.

Take a 5 foot step back so as not to provoke, then convert my remaining spell - command - to cure light wounds for Garridan.

Cure Light Wounds:1d8 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 1 + 2 = 5 -->includes +2 from trait bonus

Torag closes your wounds, my friend! Ostar says after finishing his healing prayer.

Ostar will take advantage of Eliaera and Caerwyn's location and flank one of the goblin bodyguards. He'll then attack with his warhammer:

attack:1d20 + 2 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 2 + 2 + 1 = 10
damage:1d8 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 3 + 1 = 6

Ostar isn't used to missing!

@ FuriousPhil - unless there's a houserule, the shield spell does indeed grant a +4 shield bonus to AC:

School abjuration [force]; Level sorcerer/wizard 1
Casting Time 1 standard action
Components V, S
Range personal
Target you
Duration 1 min./level (D)

Shield creates an invisible shield of force that hovers in front of you. It negates magic missile attacks directed at you. The disk also provides a +4 shield bonus to AC. This bonus applies against incorporeal touch attacks, since it is a force effect. The shield has no armor check penalty or arcane spell failure chance.

It's a domain spell for Ostar, in case you're wondering why he has it :-)

Garridan and I are probably the best pair to draw their ire, though. Ostar replies after a moment. And approaching from both entrances makes good tactical sense; we can distract long enough for the back door team to catch them unawares, or at least flank them. And they'll find their escape route out the back blocked if they try to flee. Nodding his head, and smiling grimly, he asks: Is everyone in? We can do this! We either take them down, or force them to bargain on our terms. Either way, the goblin attacks stop now!

If we go for the two-pronged attack, Ostar will cast shield on himself (taking his AC to 19) and wield his warhammer with two hands, giving himself an awesome +3 to damage! ;-)

Burning them out seems effective, but .... maybe a little cruel? I know they're goblins, and they'd do it to us in a second, but it seems extreme to me. Looking to Amelius: Can we send Mr. Man-Rat to scout around a bit? He can slip into holes and down privies and Torag knows where else. Might be a good little spy!

That was easy - a little too easy. These little beasts will have more up their sleeves than just this. Stay vigilant, and keep your guard up! Oh, and anyone with an injury, gather round so I can help.

Channel positive energy:1d6 ⇒ 6

Walking beside Eliaera, Ostar notices her apparent distraction. Are you going to be alright? I'm going to guess that you've not taken a life before, even the life of a goblin. Despite the macho bravado, it is and always will be a hard thing, a thing which awakens a deep sadness in the heart of any goodly person. You seem a strong woman, and our purpose is true, so I will not bore you with platitudes and parable Ostar winks and smiles. But if you ever want to talk, I will offer my ear and what experience I have, and if you can bear it, my friendship!

Seeing that the champion goblin has several attackers, Ostar will instead follow Eliaera's lead and attack one of the lesser goblins:

attack:1d20 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 2 + 1 + 1 = 19
damage:1d8 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 2 + 1 = 7

Ostar shakes his head at Amelius' use of his spear, but smiles at its effect. Garridan's blow, as well as Eliaera's, also bring a smile to his normally dour face. What a rout! Shalelu would be proud!

Hard to visualize this combat for some reason. Time to swing n' pray!

Ostar takes a swipe at whatever foul beast comes into range first:
attack:1d20 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (13) + 2 + 1 + 1 = 17
damage:1d8 + 2 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 2 + 1 = 9

Make sure Caerwyn has a flanking partner! I'll protect Amelius!

Sorry, I figured bless was a good option - in the game I run, I just went through the same thing with a cleric and a bard, so I figured the bonuses were generally complementary. A +2 to hit at 1st level is pretty useful, especially with slippery little goblins!

Prepare yourselves! We've a fight ahead! yells Ostar. When given the opportunity, Ostar will cast bless to benefit the party.

Bloody hell! Ostar surveys the situation cautiously. Who knows what stirred them up, but yeah - looks like the undead have done at least part of the job for us.

Ostar points to the pile of bodies that are being burned. The bonewalkers didn't get them all, though - that charnel bonfire didn't start itself. All of you - on your guard!

Perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19

None? Not a single little monster? Ostar frowns, trying to reason through what could have happened. Are they all out on a sortie? Certainly, they must have a few noncombatants they'd leave behind. Maybe Shalelu got bored and decided to cull the tribe?

Ostar shakes his head. This smells. Everyone be on your guard!

Ostar nods his head in agreement. Negotiation is not an option, not right now. If we were in a position of strength - the only thing those little monsters understand - then we could consider it. How did they end up with fireworks, anyways?

That sounds like a plan, but Caerwyn shouldn't go alone. Is there anyone that can stay stealthy with him as you go scouting?

The intelligence on the layout of their village is useful, but we still don't really have any idea of their numbers, their routines, how many might be out of the village but able to return in time to hit us from the rear. Ostar scowls at the map for a moment. A frontal assault is foolish. Observing the little bastards for a while may be the smartest move we can make. We'll get a better idea of their numbers and their disposition if we can find an observation point and watch them for a bit. Shalelu, are you aware of any good observation points where we can watch the little bastards without too much risk of compromise?

Ostar stands up straight, stretching out his back. We shouldn't be in any rush to hit them. Let's observe before acting. Then we've a better chance of wiping out the whole damn lot of them.

Fine with me! Jiminy cricket, though, at 1st level .... that's a great find!

I'm not sure signing Skitterfoot to your exclusive service was what we had hoped for here, Amelius. Ostar growls when he has a private moment with the sorcerer. Eliaera does all the work to calm him down, and now he's signed on as YOUR servant? You'd best pray that little creature of yours doesn't hurt any innocents, or I'm going to hold you to account.

With that, Ostar stalks off, stopping only for a moment in front of Eliaera. You did well today - very well. I'm honoured to fight by your side. With a nod, he takes his place for the nightly watch.

This will have happened before Garridan's post, of course.

Ostar looks over Garridan's shoulder at the map. Koya should want to take a look at this too, I think. Maps are her thing. Well, one of her things.

Ostar looks at Skitterfoot, dropping to one knee to be more at an even level with the little creature. Remember that a deal works both ways, little friend. We are happy to have you along, and will reward fellowship and respect with the same. We hope you feel the same way. My name is Ostar.

Standing back up, Ostar looks to the body sitting in front of the workbench. That ... doesn't look pleasant. Was that Megus, Skitterfoot? What happened to her?

Allying with the little bugger would probably be not be Ostar's first choice, but trying to sway the little man-beast onto the path of good.... or at least, not evil, might be appealing. Ostar is about more than just thundering blows with his warhammer, ya know!

Also, we could ask him to scuttle into all sorts of tight spots, act as a little scout, etc. This little guys possibilities are endless - just like the little wheel we could have him run on to tire him out for sleepy time! And we could rename him. Lil' Jenky?

I'm not in the market for a familiar, that's for damn sure. Ostar says while shaking his head. Eliaera may be right - the little beast might not be evil, just hurt. I don't want to take it's life if it can be avoided, not without just cause at least....

Ostar looks at Eliaera. Continuing to talk sounds like our best bet, and you're clearly our best representative in the matter. Be cautious of accepting any deals, however - I doubt accepting it as a companion would be as simple as shaking hands or paws or whatever and making an agreement. It might swear you to a blood oath, or worse! Guard yourself, and your soul. I've got your back, whatever you do.

Awesome! Can't wait for some roleplay with the "big" NPCs. Wouldn't mind getting to know my fellow party members better, too!

I loves me some H.P. Lovecraft! And good call, Garridan!

Good work everyone! Ostar smiles while wiping the gore off his warhammer. Did you see the little man-rat that was talking earlier? Does anyone know what it was? I guess we know what happened to Megus, though .... "expired" doesn't sound good.

Is the rat's leader Brown Jenkin? :-O

Ostar will attack the closest rat after moving into range:
attack:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18
damage:1d8 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7

Squeaky little monsters! Vermin! Ostar taunts the rats, though he's pretty certain they won't understand a word.

Not sure if bashing down the front door is quite how I want to introduce us, says Ostar, taking a closer look at his surroundings.

Perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (15) + 5 = 20

Maybe someone with better eyes should take a look around?

I can get behind either system, to be honest - I do think I prefer the good old xp system, if given the choice, but leveling up via fiat is a good way to ensure that we're able to meet the challenges ahead. Also, in a PbP, regular leveling can keep interest up.

Re: the cloak, I have always found it useful to try and bolster the fighter's will save as much as possible - nothing says TPK quite like having our #1 fighter attacking his own party!

So what do you folk think? Shall we pay a visit to Old Megus then return here for the night, and take advantage of Walthus' hospitality? I'm fully healed, still have all my spells and two channels remaining.

Ostar sips his tea and smiles. Very nice, Walthus, thank you! There's never a bad time for a cup of tea.

I'm going to back the division by need system, as mentioned by Garridan. If we try to treat everyone equally on some sort of GP value system things could get messy. But if we treat each other fairly, and in the spirit of friendship, I'm sure things will go smoothly.

This cloak, for example - it wouldn't be of any use to me, as it won't stack with my existing resistance bonus. Trying to lay claim to some share of it would be kinda creepy, in my opinion. Maybe whomever has the lowest total of bonuses to their saves should have it?

That's a very generous gift, Walthus. Thank you. Ostar's cheeks burn red again, as the halfling's generosity in the face of his suspicion shames him.

Ostar can't really use the cloak - his protection domain already gives him a +1 resistance bonus to saves. Who could benefit most from enhanced saves?

Thanks, Eliaera! I was going to take another feat, but at first level, survivability is key!

Seeing Garridan and Eliaera talking to Walthus, Ostar relaxes. They seem to trust him ... I've no reason to doubt their judgement, and plenty of reasons to doubt my own.

Motioning to a chair, Ostar speaks in his most conciliatory tone. I apologize, Walthus, you've obviously been through an ordeal. Would you be okay with me taking a look at those injuries? Perhaps Torag's grace can help us both.

If allowed, he'll channel energy again:1d6 ⇒ 5 to benefit both Walthus and himself. He'll also hold his tongue and let the hermit answer the questions already posed to him.

I'm really sorry to hear that, Kagehiro. I hope things start to look up for you soon!

Shalelu would never have been caught off guard like that, either. Ostar responds, shaking his head to clear his vision. I'll be fine, though - thanks.

Ostar's cheeks burn red as he imagines Shalelu's laugh at his being taken unawares so easily. Some protector I am. Maybe Koya was right - maybe playing soldier is just fooling myself and putting others at risk.

Ostar slumps against the wall, breathing heavily. He'd never been hit that hard, and in nearly two years with the militia, that was saying a lot.

Channel energy: 1d6 ⇒ 6

Calling upon the power of Torag, Ostar lets a wave of healing energy wash over him - it always felt like a warm breeze - and feels strength return to him.

At the sound of the halfling's voice, Ostar again adopts a defensive posture. Forgive me, sir, but this .... creature also claimed to be Walthus. How do we know you're not another shapeshifter?

Sense motive:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17
Perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6 <---still groggy, perhaps?

Sense motive (vs. bluff):1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13 Ostar gets to act in the surprise round!
Perception (vs disguise):1d20 + 5 ⇒ (13) + 5 = 18

What the hells is that thing? Ostar says, trying to clear his head after such a vicious blow.

Ostar draws his warhammer (move action) and strikes at the creature:
attack:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22 confirm? 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22
damage:1d8 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10 critical damage:2d8 + 4 ⇒ (3, 6) + 4 = 13
Warhammer gives a x3 critical multiplier.

So, you had a fight with some Goblins, and then a snake attacked you? Rough day in the swamp. Ostar looks cautiously up the stairs. We should secure the house, for our safety and yours. If there's something else lurking around we can help you. Then we can help tend those wounds and that poison in your system.

Perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16

Let's send two people upstairs. Be on the lookout for ... snakes, and other hazards.

Why don't we get you inside, get those injuries looked after? Ostar smiles, gesturing into the house. Looking at Garridan, Ostar subtly taps the top of his shield twice. The old guard signal for suspect lying.

Ostar lets Garridan handle the questions, watching the halfling for any odd responses or strange behaviours, unusual body language - anything out of the ordinary. Understanding that they are at the swampland home of a hermit. Don't suggest causes, he thinks to himself upon hearing Garridan ask about goblins as the cause of the hermit's distress. Let the subject present their own story. Then we can put it to the test.

Perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (12) + 5 = 17
Sense Motive:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27

He gestures for Amelius to put his food back in his pack. We'll render aid once we're sure there's no imminent danger. he mutters to the enthusiastic spellcaster.

Let's see if anyone is home. Ostar knocks loudly on the front door, then stands back and to the side to avoid being directly in front of the door.

Perception:1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

Someone take a look around the garden, see if anything strikes as unusual. Ostar readies his shield but keeps his weapon undrawn - a move learned from the militia. Be prepared, but do not provoke.

Looking over the edge, Ostar whistles. At least you have a thick layer of bruises to protect you if you fall, Garridan....still, Ostar stops his friend just before he steps on the bridge. Take Torag's blessings before you step on that bridge.

Ostar casts guidance on Garridan - good for a +1 competence bonus on a single skill check, save or attack roll - stacks with Amelius' spell if used for a save.

Perhaps we should have you hold a rope, or tie one round your waist? The bridge LOOKS okay, but I'll not risk the life of one of my few friends if I can help it.

Do we have any idea where this halfling hermit is? asks Ostar, swatting at a pestering insect. I don't suppose we can just wander the marsh, calling out "halfling hermit" and try our luck that way?

Ostar's deadpan delivery makes it hard to know if he is joking. Sometimes, at least.

Ostar's jaw clenches a little at being excluded from the drink order. He removes his helmet and runs his hand over his short hair before speaking.

Shalelu's talents would clearly be wasted by hunting for simple Goblins - ones with some sort of explosives, that is, but still. I think we've got the foundations of a good group right here. Garridan can fight better than most any man I know, Caerwyn can scout and hit the little devils before they even know it. Amelius, well, you're a little odd, but your spells will be more than just a little handy.

Ostar nods at Eliaera, wondering where he knew her from. Well met, Eliaera. I'm not sure as to your skillset, but your enthusiasm for goblin extermination says something all by itself.

So, that sounds like a plan. We find this halfling hermit in his hole or treestump or whatever the little fellow lives in, and we see if he knows why the Goblins have been so active of late. Whatever that reason is, these attacks will be stopped - one way or another. Unless this soggy monster eats us, first. Ostar regrets that last comment as Shalelu's eyes fall upon him. As the ranger was not known for exaggeration, Ostar had to assume there was some truth behind the rumour, even if the name was ridiculous.

Ostar sits down after a moment, choosing his chair cautiously, so as not to have his back to the door, or too many potential attackers. I agree, taking these Goblins down should be our top priority. Didn't they attack Sandpoint, in broad daylight, just a few years ago? We musn't let the little beasts grow too bold.

Sitting back and smiling grimly, Ostar taps the table for a moment before speaking again. I'm glad of your presence here, my friend, and of Caerwyn's also. I had images of this mob - the cream of Sandpoint, no doubt - grabbing whatever implements were close at hand and sallying forth to meet our foes in the dark of night.

Ostar picked up his pace as he headed for The Rusty Dragon. About time old Hemlock took some action, he mused to himself. But we can't have a mob rushing out to chase goblins - this is going to require some planning.

As he turns the corner and sees the tavern, he slows up, then halts for a moment. Taking a deep breath, the young cleric seeks to calm himself before entering the busy establishment. Not a place I'm likely to be very welcome, yet the one place duty demands I go. Raising his hand to open the door, Ostar hoped no-one passing nor inside would see that it was shaking.

Entering the tavern, Ostar imagined that a hush descended over the place. Muttered comments and averted gazes assailed him; he swallowed hard and walked in nonetheless. In truth, any member of the guard would likely have elicited a reaction - many faces familiar to law enforcement made themselves no stranger to drinking establishments. But he felt uncomfortable in the company of so many, with the addition of alcohol to the mix, and the discord caused by the Goblin attacks. A mix of elements as combustible as he could imagine.

Hearing a young man stand up and ask for parties interested in taking on the goblins to come to his table, Ostar makes his way over. He sees a familiar face, and smiles. Garridan? I should have known you'd be up for some Goblin hunting! I'm pleased to see that there's more than simple rabble here, tonight!

Wonderful! Thank you very much for the selection! I am looking forward to gaming with all of you!

What is the policy on starting money? As Core (roll or average)?

FuriousPhil stated that he'd like us to use average starting gold (table6-1 in the core rulebook) for starters :-)

Ostar Foehammer wrote:

@ FuriousPhil, what is the starting wealth?

Lets go with the average starting wealth by class (Table 6-1, Core Rulebook) for now.

Thanks very much! Ostar is equipped and ready to go!

Dotting for interest - thinking of a good ol' fashioned LG cleric, good and protection domains, a support guy - defensive specialist, healer, buffer, party conscience.

@ FuriousPhil, what is the starting wealth?

Of mixed heritage, Ostar is light skinned, with close cropped brown hair and green eyes. Clean shaven in town but with a propensity towards heavy stubble after some time in the field. Ostar stands just under six feet tall, and his muscular frame tips the scales at around 185 lbs. Neither handsome nor ugly, Ostar's most noteable facial feature is a scar running down the right side of his face, over his eye. He sometimes runs his finger down the scar, as if remembering a lesson from long ago.

Given to bouts of moodiness and melancholy, Ostar has often been a loner, keeping others at a distance. He's often seen at the edge of a gathering, looking like he's going to join in - before stepping back into the shadows again, and returning to his lonely vigils. His few friends are very important to him, but he struggles with how to tell them that.

His parents are unknown; Ostar was discovered near death by Koya as she routed a band of Ogres. Her quick intercession led to the boy's recovery from near death. Taking pity on the orphan, she helped raise him from that day on. Neither speak much of that day; Koya knows what happened to Ostar's parents, but hasn't shared that information with anyone else.

Ostar's choice to follow Torag, rather than Desna, has caused a rift between him and Koya. While both good and lawful, Ostar often wonders where the line is drawn when protecting others: will protecting others make them weak? Should they not, at some point, learn to fend for themselves? These questions often restrain Ostar's natural inclination towards altruism. He'd much rather prepare before facing a dangerous situation, instead of running into danger half-cocked.

Trait choices will likely be rescued - Koya, and birthmark.

I can post several times a day, including weekends. I DM my own game on these boards, so I know how important everyone's regular participation is!