Several years ago I released a couple of adaptations to Pathfinder 1e to explore the space opera setting I have created for my novels.
Now it's time for a new series, adapted to Starfinder!
Veil of Truth Campaign Primer is a FREE ebook 40 pages long with 2 new playeable species, new class options, basic information about the setting and an introductory adventure.
* The story of the Veil of Truth universe and its main factions and regions;
* 2 new alien races: the scheming negotiator Niterian and the pondering giant Pravii;
* 3 alternate Mystic Connections: Biomancer, Kineticist and Metabolicist;
* New Technomancer options to make a medtech: a nanotechnology healer;
* A new Soldier Fighting Style: The Psychic Warrior;
* Ideas on how to adapt monsters and items to a space opera setting;
* And an introductory adventure in search of a fabled space station left behind by one of the Fallen Empires!
Veil of Truth Fallen Empires is a 60 pages long ebook focused on adventures through the Forbidden Sector, where once upon a time two ancient empires clashed, leaving incredible ruins, fantastic artifacts and unknown creatures behind. This ebook brings 3 new playable species, 6 creatures, plus several tools to create events, encounters, artifacts, worlds and even monsters on the fly.
* Rules and tables to flesh out your exploration crew with Motivations and Flaws;
* 3 new alien races: the mysterious Celonians, the agressive Jakt and the multilimbed Thoy'ykoth;
* Rules and tables on how to make the party's ship a character that impacts in plot and challenges;
* The story of two Fallen Empires, the infamous Grey of the Coregency of Celon and the living machines of the Meridath Empire;
* Details about Vega Ringstation and the Exploratory Corps;
* Dozens of tables to help you create an exploration adventure, including how to create new locations, new artifacts and new creatures on the fly;
* 6 new alien enemies to throw against your players!
The Context RPG (a genre-free light rpg system) is currently running for a publication prize at ENWorld's 7-day RPG Contest.
I'd like to invite you guys and gals to check out the 2-page sample present at ENWorld and, if you guys like it, to vote for it (everyone has the right to vote on 3 games).
Thank you for your time!
---
The Context RPG system focus on allowing players and narrators to craft fun adventures and stories without creating too many constraints.
The system replaces tons of numbers that predefine what a character is capable of doing to a set of player-made descriptions that both give characters a story and context, and work as source for imagining how to handle conflicts and challenges.
It can be used to any kind of setting and any kind of RPG style, be it a gritty dungeon delve or a court intrigue in the 25th century.
It's the 2147. Humankind has stumbled upon a vast galactic society composed of dozens of alien species.
But fiction writers were wrong.
There is not an unified Human culture. No powerful Human Empire. Human Nature prevails.
Veil of Truth: Human Nature is the new sourcebook for the Pathfinder space opera campaign setting! In this book, you will find focus on Humankind and Sol.
* History of Humankind
* Information on all Solar System planets and their current status in 2147
* Earth's new governments and corporate states
* Humankind's colonies beyond Sol
* New equipment
* New aliens
I was having this discussing with some friends about races in RPGs (in the specific case, Pathfinder and other d20 games). It started out with someone saying that picking a race has little (mechanical) effect to the character after the first few levels. It is arguably a fact (with some races).
Added to that was the discussing that the majority of players did not 'roleplay' these races, so that, in the end, they were all humans in funny costumes
Now, the question is, what is the reason for you choosing a specific race? The stats/abilities it provides? The concept of a dwarf or elf due to some affinity? Pure lore based on the campaign setting? Something else?
Chronicles of Weird wouldn't be weird without strange player characters! A land where not only dwarves, elves and orcs are uncommon, but human themselves, calls for a new batch of heroic (and not-to-heroic) characters!
Who are they and what new elements can they bring to your gaming table?
Eridanus Books is proud to present an exciting new campaign setting: World of Eridanus! More than just another campaign setting, WoE is a massive world not unlike our own, but wholy different. Just like on Earth country and continent developed a story of their own before contact became inevitable, WoE is presented as several interconnected mini-campaign setting.
Each of WoE’s mini-settings bring you a new land, with its own story, factions, races, archetypes and rules, each independent, but, still, connected to WoE’s larger story: the fact that Eridanus is the battleground of a not-so-secret war between two outworldly factions.
But who are these planar entities? Angels and demons, faeries and unseelies, gods of good and evil, entropy, light and shadow or just plain old invaders? It depends on who you ask, of course! Each mini-setting has been affected in a different way by this war, and each has their points of view about who are they and why they are fighting.
And how better to start if not with the weirdest of all parts of World of Eridanus?
This is the last week for you to be part of Veil of Truth: Human Nature! Do you want an exclusive miniature? Do you want to create one of Humanity's colonies in the stars? What about having one of the leaders of Humanity based on your good looks?
Check out the book cover, table of contents and more here.
Curious about playing Pathfinder RPG in space, but do willing to pay for something you haven tried? Eager to get your hands on an exciting space opera adventure? Looking to learn more on the future of Humankind?
The download the Veil of Truth Starter Kit here for free!
Corporate Solution takes a party of up to 4 pre-generated characters (human seeker, human medtech, niterian engineer and celonian psion) to a backwater colony on Mars in search of a genius scientist gone missing.
The Starter Kit has everything you need to know to enjoy this adventure (minus the Pathfinder Rulesbook, of course!)
Hello, everyone! Just wanted to let you guys know I just posted an update on the Veil of Truth: Human Nature crowdfunding campaign, including a closer look at the cover art (created by artist Ig Barros, currently working for DC Comics) and an overview of what is planned for each chapter.
Eridanus Books is proud to present the crowd funding campaign for Veil of Truth: Human Nature!
Veil of Truth: Human Nature is part of the Veil of Truth campaign setting, released in 2005 as a novel in Brazil and Portugal and this year as a rules book that adapts the Pathfinder Roleplaying Game to space opera adventure!
In this setting, it was a new cold war when Humanity stumbled upon the truth: that we have been treated as primitive natives of a reservation kept away from contact with the living and thriving universe out there.
But this is not yet another story about an unified Humanity that saves the Galaxy. We are an aggressive species. We are envious and greedy. We are Human.
Veil of Truth: Human Nature is a 64-page source book that brings you Humanity’s story prior and after Revelation Day up to the mid-22nd century. Each of the Solar System’s planets, as well as its major factions and extra solar colonies are presented in their full glory. Learn about the power of Corporate Nations, Earth’s new geopolitical map and of adventure and war in space!
Join the fight and you may get not only the sourcebook, but the chance to be part of it! Create a space colony, be one of the VIPs, get an exclusive hand-made miniature!
There has been a lot of talk about successful crowndfunding campaigns at Kickstarter.
But currently Kickstarter places a barrier before many developers: you need to be an US resident with social security number and bank account.
There are, though, other crowndfunding websites out there with less restrictions. Sites that take payment by paypal, for example.
The question is, would you support a project on other websites (ex: Catarse.me), as long as they were produced in English for the internacional market?
The late 21st century seemed surprisingly similar to the mid 17th century. The world’s major powers clashed in controlled wars for the conquest of resources in distant colonies. Space was the new frontier, a savage land out of control of any one power. The race for the outer solar system was on.
There was only one problem: THEY were waiting for us.
Veil of Truth is a Pathfinder Roleplaying Game compatible product that brings the Space Opera into your table!
Inside you will find:
* 7 new races: celonian, en, karizar, nabora, niterian, thoy'ykoth and yahidar;
* 4 alternate classes: engineer, medtech, psion and seeker;
* New uses for skills and several new feats;
* Tons of high and ultratech equipment;
* Everything you need to know to start your very own Veil of Truth Campaign;
* And everything without needing to learn a whole new game system!
Available at:
RPGNow
(Soon also here at Paizo.com)
I's been a while that I want to do a gritty low magic game using Green Ronin's a Song of Ice and Fire RPG. What I'm thinking of is a group of characters with whatever sort of background they want to to play something that will involved a lot of thinking and planning. There will be combat, but you'll want to plan it out first, because the outcome could be deadly. The sort that the players will try ambushes, poison, bribery, blackmail and similar advantages instead of going straight in (unless you are sure the enemy is asleep, unarmed, etc)
Think Black Company, Thieves' World and, of course, a Game of Thrones
At the top of my head, I'm thinking of a game about the low life of a city, with things like mercenaries, crooks, con artists, near do wells or something like that
If you are interested, let me know and give me an idea of what you would like to play
This is not about heroes, but about surviving in dark world where life is cheap
Grittier Rules brings into The Pathfinder Roleplaying Game even more mechanics for dealing with combat, resolving issues without magic, a straight-forward social conflict mechanics and several class archetypes to fit your taste for a low-magic game with a grittier feel.
And you do not need any of the Grittier products to enjoy this book!
Inside:
Rethinking the hit point concept and how to extra add tactic into combat;
*Non-magical alteratives for hit point recovery;
*Replacing daily spell slots for something different: life force;
*Non-magical items that work like a charm;
*What if you don't have access to things like levitate, alarm or a *flaming sword;
*7 new class archetypes:
**Experimentalist (Alchemist)
**Tinker (Alchemist)
**Dabbler (Bard)
**Noble (Bard)
**Witch Hunter (Inquisitor)
**Puppet Master (Summoner)
**Creator (Summoner)
Available at RPGNow and soon at Paizo.com for only $2.15!
Artist extraordinaire Rafael Schnell, who is currently one of the beta testers of Grittier and our soon-to-be-released sandbox adventure, decided to give form to the beta test party. And what an impressive work! Check out his blog and take a look at a Grittier party!
http://5chnell.blogspot.com/
The party:
> Heidi Von Trapp, Tinker (Alchemist archetype)*
> Cristopher Ross, Archer (Fighter archetype)
> "The old man", Witch Hunter (Inquisitor archetype)*
> Isaac, Puppet Master (Summoner archetype)*
And, still not illustrated:
> Janos Graf Von Berech un Berecs, Noble (Bard archetype)*
What about helping guide Eridanus Books' schedule for 2011?
We decided to ask costumers what they want the most so that we may decide which products to focus on. So, please, reply with your votes (up to 3) for the following products. If there is anything else you are interested in that is not listed, please do tell us!
* Grittier Adventures - 1st to 6th level low-magic adventures where thinking and planning comes before hacking and slashing;
* Grittier Sandboxes- New areas like forests, castles, cities, etc for exploration, with encounters and quests, all around a main plot;
* Grittier Monsters - Low-magic version of classic monsters;
* Grittier Rules - More rules for a grittier game. Magic, traps, adventuring, encouters, rituals, etc;
* Grittier Campaign Setting;
* Grittier Class Archtypes;
* Grittier Races - Variant classics;
* Grittier Races - Monsters turned player characters.
4 stars at RPGNow.com!
"All in all, I love this supplement. It just may be the book that gets me to play Pathfinder."
- Devon Kelley [Featured Reviewer]
We have just released at Paizo out second Grittier Pathfinder pdf, the first of the Grittier Races series: Elflings!
What if elvenkind suddenly lost its immortality? What if had magic left them? What would remain?
Grittier Races: Elflings brings you four alternate elven races that are far from your classic high-magic, immortal beings.
Plus ideas on elf-destroying catastrophes in your campaign world and designer notes explaining inspirations and references and what is behind each of the four elfling races.
As I mentioned in some other(s) thread(s), I'm working on a low-magic campaign and, among other things, I decided to remove some classes from the players choices, among them Wizard, Cleric and Sorcerer.
While browsing the Advanced Guide, I came across the Archivist, a bard Variant. While the idea sounded amazing, I felt like there were something lacking to fit into what I had in mind.
So, I've scribbling around the idea of a low-magic wizard based on the Bard. Yes, he can use some weapons and even some armor, but thats somewhat common on low-magic stories. Also, he is a bit more focused on knowledge and research than straight magic (or singing, for that matter ;))
Same as Bard, but replace level abilities to the following:
* Level 1:
------Bardic Knowledge
------Bardic Performance
------------Uses Spellcraft (Countersong, Distraction)
------------Uses Knowledge (Fascinate, Naturalist)
*Level 2:
------Lore Master 1/day
------Magic Lore
*Level 3:
------Inspire Competence
*Level 5
------Arcane Bond (object only)
*Level 6
------+2 spells known (3rd), +1 spell slot (3rd), Lore Master 2/day
Now, you see. I'm running a game up to level 6, so I believe that if you would use this on further levels, I'd not add that extra spell on level 6 (since you get it on level 7). Id suggest something else (which I can't think about right now).
Another possible change (which I'm still considering) is trading the Bard's spell list for the Wizards. Might make sense to change the casting style as a whole (spellbook instead of powers known) and even the spell table, but I'm unsure of it.
What I'm unsure is if Arcane Bond is too powerful for level 5. I added it there based on studing other Bard variants (like the Magician).
I don't think this would fit all flavours of campaigns, but it seems appropriate to me. Now, is it balanced? Are these the best class abilities?
Id like to cancel my AP subscription. Aside from the fact that dollar/real relation increased a lot in the last few months (nearly doubling how much I pay monthly), I found the theme of these 3 APs not to fit my gaming style. While the extra material is always very good and usually elements of the first few AP adventures grab my attention, Ill rather wait for future releases, acquiring ones that get my attention when released.
So... I was just informed by the company I work for Ill be sent to attend the Game Developers Conference at SF ::girly screaming::
Er... anyway, so, since Ill be there, I was wondering if anyone knew some good RPG store or similar around the Moscone Center area. I'm not sure how much time outside the conference I'll have, so the closest the better ;)
Here I was thinking about our APs, reading over Legacy of Fire and a bit of what was said of Council of Thieves (I got CotCT and SD) and I realized every one of them are very epic by the middle to the end. Every one envolves something HUGE, like world shattering, world domination, invasion from god-like entieties, etc. It SEEMS like Council will be a little less of that. I can only hope Kingmaker will be (considering where it will be set at).
I understand the need to do something like that as the AP ends around 15th level, but isn't there possible to have an AP that is more regional in scope? Not geographically, but plotwise.
Do every APs need some BBEG with ultimate power and a horde of demons/devils/undead to be successful?
I'm personally not too much into such fantastic epicness. Especially since it ends up becoming too common place.
What Im aiming for in this comment is to suggest some APs that envolves nations at war/near war, secret (human) societies, coupes, civil war, mercenary work, new world exploration, etc. The enemy could even be time or the need to do something. Humans can also be pretty evil on their own without the need for devilish influence (think The Black Company)
I've seen some ideas in that way here on the board before, but I didnt find it (I really didn't search that much, really), but they are here somewhere!
So, while we should keep the fantastic epic we already have, with evil wizard rulers, reborn ancient wyrms, Golarion-shattering drow, god-like efreet and such, we could have something aimed for the... realistic, for lack of a better world.
Since learning that I got to Round 3, I have been thinking a lot about RPG Superstar and my work. I know I learned a lot out of this opportunity. After all, I write fiction for a living (In fact I’m proud to say I am the only person in Brazil who actually supports his family exclusively by writing science fiction), but in a totally different media and form. So, having the opportunity of a break through in RPG book publishing was more than special. It was the chance of a lifetime.
Some of you may have read what I said in another threat about how excited I was about all of this and how it was sort of a life changing experience, including in my household. So I’ll forfeit talking anymore about it and get to the point.
This thread is about how RPG Superstar works. I saw two things during my participation in this competition that made me (both as a contestant and as a professional) realize who wrong contestant selection goes. And, no, I’m not saying I should have gone into Round 4. Quite the opposite. I probably shouldn’t event be on Round 3.
Allow me to explain my point.
I don’t believe anyone in here knows it or saw any of it, but the simple fact that I was Top 32 made me a small celebrity in Brazil. News was going out on the major RPG websites where as well as in many blogs and mailing lists. After all, a Brazilian dude has got into the Top 32 in a huge international rpg contest! It may sound a bit foolish, but it’s a lot for a proud people who are always trying to show its worth to the world.
Now, I don’t know how much it also counted, but I was already a little know in Brazil. I have written RPG and creativity articles and essays for various websites, RPG and educational ones, and I’m responsible for game content on the largest computer game project in the country. In fact, I’ve been on TV a few times in the last few months thanks to that. Add to that that my recent novel was published by Devir, the largest RPG company in Latin countries AND the company with the rights to publish D&D, Storytelling and GURPS in said countries.
Now, if you were a Brazilian and learned that that dude I described over there was Top 32 of a contest and my vote could count to get him to Top 16 (and further) and let people know there was a Brazilian up there, wouldn’t you vote for that guy?
After I got in Round 2, much to my surprise, I learned from a lot of people that they were voting for me. I got emails and messages on Orkut of people I never heard of or who I haven’t seen in years wishing me good luck and saying they voted for me. Some in fact said they spread the world around to friends and family. I can only guess it repeated itself for Round 3.
Conspiracy Theory moment: A few minutes after I learned I got to Top 16 and noticed the noted that there was a tie, and so 17 contestants were chosen, it got me thinking. What are the odds of a tie in such a large contest? As soon as I learned of so many people voting for me just because I was Brazilian and/or because they knew me, I thought: could it be that in fact I got too many votes and Paizo didn’t find it fair that I got in just because of popularity while another contestant whose villain was better suited didn’t? Then they made up this ‘tie’ thing so that all 16 worthy contestants got in? That said, could it have happened again on Round 3 to 4 and they decided (wisely) not to allow it to repeat itself and simply cut me out even if I had enough votes?
What I say is that I know fully well both my villain submissions were lacking. My second one specially, since I failed on the stats and neither was my rule (or rules?) Superstar material.
Which takes me to the second part of this message.
I have read all of the villains for Round 2. While, as I said, I know my submission was lacking, I know that it was far from the bottom of Round 2. What I know for sure is that there was a presentation issue. I’m used to longer space to develop and present a character. Obviously there is the need for me to learn and improve if I want to get that chance to be part of a Paizo RPG book (and I definitely want to). But, still, I felt angry when I read most of the comments.
Once again, allow me to explain before going further. People are often led by what professionals say. In fact, people are psychologically led to agree with someone recognized as a knowledgeable person in a given subject. Especially if anything they say is recorded and open for anyone to see.
So, if a judge says something, that has a LOT of weight on decision-making. Which makes me wonder if it is correct to let voters vote based on judge comment or if judge comments should come only after the voting has ended. In a lesser extent, even people with ‘contributor’ on their tag name had a lot of weight to their comment. I saw, for example, that Josh Frost posted in a couple of entries. Don’t get me wrong; I LOVED the opportunity to get feed back from professionals. I know of people who were submitting adventures to the PFS open calls just because Josh gave feedback on the first ones. But some feedback simply serves to guide the majority of the voters.
Now on why I was angry. When the time came to see what the judges said about my Round 2 submission, I was extremely pissed of at Clark’s comment. In fact, exclusively at his comment. While I did not agree with everything everyone said, what caught my attention was that a judge said he wouldn’t comment on my submission because it lacked much of what was asked.
If it was right, I would agree. But, as some voters mentioned on the same thread, it was all there. My submission was a villain with intention and plots. While I agree that I hid much of his present in his past (and here is where I mention my inability to present the character in few words), I fail to see him as less of a villain that some of the others who didn’t get pass Round 2. Obviously I was not the only one.
But what I saw on my Round 2 thread was lots of people who simply copy/pasted the comment that it was a lacking submission. That it was not a villain. Was it? Well, one person pointed out exactly the plots and plans developed for the villain.
So, my question is, how many people decided their votes and comments because one judge simple refused to comment and said that submission lacked plans and schemes? How many more followed suit or maybe didn’t even read the submission because they saw many say the same?
I’m sorry to have to say it, but I felt Clark’s comment unprofessional of someone on his position. Yes, I know saying this could mean ending my chances of that chance in international RPG publishing, but I feel it has to be said. Look at Ed Greenwood’s comments. He analyzed every submission. Look at Jason Bulmahn’s.
Clark always analyzes submissions bit by bit. And then, he simply forfeits to do it with a few, saying they shouldn’t even be accepted. How much weight do you think that has on voting?
Let it be clear that this is not personal against Clark. In fact, Clark was the main defender of my Heart of Oblivion. So, if it wasn't for him I'd probably not get past Round 1.
Also, I loved the contest elements in itself. I was in fact excited while I read Round 4's rules and wondering how I would deal with it. The same goes to the previous rounds.
Well, that’s a lot of text already. I believe I managed to present my perspective this time (seems like I need some 1.500 words to do it effectively ;)).
And so I hope you (Paizo and community) see this as it is: a different perspective of things, and an insight into how the contest works and where it seems to fail.
Thank you for your time.
- João Marcelo Beraldo
Who treasures his Top 16 tag
I'd like to appologize for what was my biggest mistake in this competition (or my whole time in these Messageboards): Posting without thinking twice.
As I mentioned before, february 10th, the day our submissions (and the judges comments) were published, was my birthday. I came to the computer to read what the judges (and many others) had commented on my submission after a family dinner. I was very excited, not only because Id get the opportunity to read what the judges and voters wrote about my submission, but because I had just had a long and excellent discussion about fantasy villains and games with my wife during dinner.
Now, you see, this may sound stupid for most of you, so let me put it in your perspective. Like many of you, I have played RPGs and computer games sinces I was a kid (and I just turned 30). Also, games and fiction are my life: I actually work with computer games and write science fiction for a living. But, despite all that, my wife hates fantasy/sci-fi and has absolutelly no interest in games, much specially RPGs.
But since I got to the Top 32, my wife noticed how excited I was about it. See, she has always supported by love for games and fiction. So much that we moved to another state when the opportunity to work with games came by, even though it ment trading universities close to graduation. But it was a great leap when she started to get excited about each new step of the competition.
That night, february 10th, she asked me about my villain, what were my plans for him and we ended up in a long discussion about undead villains, fantasy settings and adventures. By the end, she was looking at the clock to check the time, and called me to go to the computer check what people commented about Boemundo. In fact, she was at it before me.
At that time, after all this I mentioned, I was so hyped out that I just wanted to keep on going. On that, I commented on Jason Buhlman's comment about Boemundo. Why? I'm not sure. Maybe it was the need to explain, now to someone who would understand especifically what I ment (as I mentioned, my wife knows little of RPGs). Or maybe, in my mind, it was just a followup of the discussion we were already having before.
Either way, it was a mistake. One that I greatly regret.
I'm not here asking you to ignore my mistake. I did it. What I ask you is that you do not (ironically) see me as a villain. It was the first and only mistake of this kind I did and I would not like that not thinking for a couple of minutes would not only ruin my chances to be a RPGSuperstar, but cause you to think ill of me.
Boemundo, Brenno's Shadow Protector
male wraith fighter 10
“Boemundo's vow to defend this city was stronger than death. And the people rejoiced.” Description:
Brenno would not fall to the spell-enhanced armies of the Twisted Nail tribe. With Boemundo diForenzzo in charge of the garrison, it didn't matter if others denied help or if the siege lasted for years. He would lead a suicide raid into the enemy's heart, a life-draining magical stone in his hands. The siege ended that night, and Boemundo's unlife began.
The dark essence that is Boemundo takes the shape of a translucent black armored skeleton whose face is eternally hidden inside a helmet. His prized longsword hangs on his belt, now an extension of his hands. When he walks, his legs dissolve into smoke. A black stone can be seen inside his chest, pulsating with greenish energy where his heart should be. Unnatural cold seems to follow Boemundo and magic appears to fail in his presence.
Motivations/Goals:
While most wraiths exist only to destroy life, the cursed stone that took his life and others seem to have allowed unliving Boemundo to remain true to his former self. Boemundo still vows to protect the city of Brenno, no matter what. His anger for life focuses on what he considers responsible for Brenno's long siege and the death of his men: magic.
Schemes/Plots:
Boemundo devised a plan to keep Brenno constantly safe. Retaining a tactician's mind that knows every hidden spot in the city, he began eliminating anyone he considered a threat to the community, be it a common criminal, an outspoken personality or an apprentice wizard. Those who fall become part of his increasing shadow army.
While rumors of the truth behind these disappearances already spread across the streets of Brenno, little has been done about the matter. It's not that the mayor is afraid of dealing with the wraith, but the fact that many see Boemundo's cleansing of the city a blessing. What few know is that some of the city soldiers, including Ellis Andandi, former second-in-command of the city garrison, have pledged their loyalty to the undead Boemundo and intend to help him make Brenno safe, even if it means hunting down all spellcasters in the region.
Adventure Hooks
The party delves into a dungeon/castle/cave to recover a much needed artifact just to discover another party with the same objetive. There are two differences: first, the party is composed of living and undead; second, they want the artifact destroyed.
The PCs are hired/incited to investigate several cases of missing persons. What they don't know is that some of the city's soldiers as well as many of its citizens prefer things as they are.
Boemundo sends an army of living and unliving to the Gallowspire, where he intends to destroy the greatest source of magic in Golarion: the Whispering Tyrant. Breaking the seal is the first step of the plan.
BEOMUNDO CR 15 [+5 wraith, +10 fighter]
Male wraith fighter 10
LE Medium undead (incorporeal)
Init +8 [+4 Dex, +4 Improved Initiative]; Senses darkvision 60ft.; Perception +10
Aura unnatural aura
===== Defense ===== AC 19, touch 19, flat-footed 15; (+5 deflection, +4 Dex)
hp 120 (5d12 wraith + 10d10 fighter);
Fort +8 [+1 wraith, +7 fighter], Ref +8 [+4 Dex, +1 wraith, +3 fighter], Will +9 [+2 Wis, +4 wraith, +3 fighter]
Defensive Abilities +9 turn resistance [+2 wraith, +2 bravery, +5 Anchored Soul], incorporeal; Immune undead immunities
Weaknesses Daylight powerlessness
===== Offense ===== Spd Fly 60 ft. (good)
Melee Incorporeal touch +20/+15/+10 [+2 wraith, +10/+5 fighter, +4 Dex, +1 Weapon Focus, +1 Greater Weapon Focus, +2 weapon training] (1d4+2 plus 1d6 Constitution drain) [+2 fighter] (19-20) [Improved Critical]
Special Attacks Constitution drain, create spawn
===== Tactics ===== Before Combat Master of defensive tactics, Boemundo will hardly ever be caught off-guard. Boemundo may sacrifice one or more of his living soldiers to cast spell turning on him while he orders his living archers to prepare at higher ground and his wraiths to hide inside solid walls and floors.
During Combat Boemundo quickly advances towards spellcasters, intended on quickly eliminating an enemy and creating a new wraith. He take full advantage of his great cleave by staying right in the middle of an enemy party. He orders wraiths to use hit-and-run tactics while his living warriors use ranged attacks that cannot hurt Boemundo and his incorporeal minions as they slash and drain the enemy dry.
Morale Boemundo will fight to a second death, unless he is somehow made to believe surrender is best for Brenno (which is not an easy task).
===== Statistics ===== Str -, Dex 19, Con -, Int 16, Wis 14, Cha 21
Base Atk +12/+7/+2 [+2 wraith, +10/+5 fighter]; CMB +12 [+2 wraith, +10 fighter]
Feats Anchored Soul, Blindfight, Cleave, Combat Reflexes, Great Cleave, Greater Weapon Focus (Unarmed), Improved Critical (Unarmed), Improved Initiative, Leadership (Ellis Andani, LN Human 13th-Level Fighter Cohort), Power Attack*, Weapon Focus (Unarmed)
Skills Diplomacy+5 [+5 Cha, +8 wraith], Fly+12 [+4 Dex, +8 wraith], Intimidate+10 [+5 Cha, +5 fighter], Knowledge (arcana)+9 [+3 Int, +6 fighter], Knowledge (engineering)+12 [+3 Int, +9 fighter], Knowledge (geography)+9 [+3 Int, +6 fighter], Knowledge (history)+8 [+3 Int, +5 fighter], Knowledge (local)+13 [+3 Int, +10 fighter], Knowledge (nobility)+7 [+3 Int, +4 fighter], Perception+10 [+2 Wis, +8 fighter], Profession(soldier)+7 [+2 Wis, +5 fighter], Survival+7 [+2 Wis, +5 fighter], Stealth+10 [+4 Dex, +6 fighter]
Languages Common, Varisian, Orc, Skald
SQ Armor trainingx2*, Bravery, For Brenno!, Magic bane, Weapon trainingx2 (Unarmed)
*no longer useful ===== Ecology ===== Environment Urban (city of Brenno and outskirts)
Organization Solitary plus 3-6 wraith
Treasure none
===== Special Abilities ===== Bravery (Ex) Boemundo's acquired bravery as a fighter works as a +2 turn resistance.
For Brenno! (Ex) While in Brenno, Boemundo's daylight powerlessness is replaced by a -2 penalty to attack rolls, saves and checks.
Constitution Drain (Su) Living creatures hit by a wraith’s incorporeal touch attack must succeed on a DC 17 Fortitude save [10 + 2 HD + 5 Charisma] or take 1d6 points of Constitution drain. The save DC is Charisma-based. On each such successful attack, the wraith gains 5 temporary hit points.
Create Spawn (Su) Any humanoid slain by a wraith becomes a wraith in 1d4 rounds. Its body remains intact and inanimate, but its spirit is torn free from its corpse and transformed. Spawn are under the command of Boemundo and remain enslaved until its death. They do not possess any of the abilities they had in life. Spawn created by Boemundo's wraith are under Boemundo's command.
Magic bane (Su) Instead of gaining 5 hp from Constitution drain, Boemundo may use drained Constitution to power spell-like powers as an immediate action. If Boemundo has drained up to 3 Constitution in his previous attack, he may cast dispel magic. If the drain caused up to 6 Constitution damage, he may cast spell turning. This power may be used only once per turn and only during the same turn he drained Constitution.
Anchored Soul
Your immortal soul is connected to a region in such a way that it strenghtens you.
Prerequisite Undead, Cha 12
Benefit You select a region (city, valley, dungeon, etc). Whenever you are in this area, you get a turn resistance bonus equal to your Charisma bonus.
I worked out a couple of rules, then I realized that something I've created for my villain may count as a new rule already... So, would a Special Ability like darkvision or constitution drain count as a new rule or its just part of the villain?
Boemundo, Unliving Oblivion
Male wraith fighter 10th
Description: A whirlwind of black smoke rises up in the air; a strange black stone floats in it’s midst. As the smoke takes shape, a humanoid form is revealed wearing armor and holding a large sword. Inside his chest, the dreaded stone pulses like a heart. The wraith’s eyes meet the spellcaster’s and flare in crimson hatred.
An excellent warrior, capable tactician and enthusiast historian, Boemundo diForenzzo would quickly rise to garrison command of Brenno. Such was his success that, soon, the city would become impervious to raids and assaults.
So it came with a shock when, eight years later, an army of spell-enhanced soldiers annihilated all patrols and laid siege to the city. Message after message was sent asking for help from nearby cities, but none ever came.
As months went by, desperation set in over Brenno. Refusing to surrender, Boemundo resorted to ancient texts. Help came in the words of an explorer and what he called Heart of Oblivion, a powerful stone which could disrupt magic.
Boemundo ordered Brenno’s best magicians to craft such wonder. The magical item, he believed, would be essential in defeating their enemies and breaking the siege once and for all.
When the strange black stone was finished, Boemundo assembled his elite warriors. Despite the magicians’ warnings of the dangers of using the stone, that night Brenno’s best slipped out of the city walls and sneaked towards the enemy camp.
As the battle began, Boemundo used the stone to dispel the powerful magic that made his enemies invincible. Allies and enemies would fall victim to the Heart’s hunger for life. By the end, Boemundo himself lay lifeless in the field of victory.
Wisps of black, fluid smoke took shape above the battleground, causing the discarded stone to float in the air. Before the astonished eyes of survivors, Boemundo returned as one of the undead. His shining armor black and deformed, his once noble face distorted as an angry skull with blood red eyes. Trapped inside his incorporeal body, the stone, the Heart of Oblivion, pulsed with hatred for magic and the living.
It was time for vengeance.
Motivations/Goals:
Boemundo’s return as a wraith seems to have clouded much of his memory. Driven by anger, what remains in Boemundo's mind is vengeance. Especially against what he judges responsible for his tragedy: magic. Far from a simple wraith, much of his living experience and intelligence remains, including the mind of an experienced military officer.
Schemes/Plots/Adventure Hooks:
Boemundo plans on using his brilliant mind and experience to first take vengeance upon Brenno’s arcane school, then use his newly created minions to retake command of the city garrison. Only then will Boemundo turn his eyes towards his master plan: a witch hunting campaign to erase the evils of magic from this world. And the Heart of Oblivion trapped in his unliving essence will once again be the key to his victory.
Heart of Oblivion
Aura Strong abjuration; CL 15th
Slot necklace; Price 82.000 gp
DESCRIPTION
While the origin of the first Heart of Oblivion is unknown, those who have tasted of its powers swear these items are part of the Abyss itself. A Heart of Oblivion looks like a leather string holding an egg-sized raw stone so black not even light escapes it. At close examination one may notice within what seem like phantom glyphs swimming in liquid blackness.
A Heart of Oblivion allows the user to emulate the effects of Greater Dispel Magic. But the Heart is thirsty. It feeds on life. Each time it is activated, the user must make a Fortitude check DC 20 or take a number of negative levels equal to the target spell level. If the user succeeds, a random victim up to 30 feet away must make the check or suffers the drain. If either the victim saves or perishes before paying the full drain, another random victim is targeted and so on until the cost is met. Otherwise, the dispel fails. Negative level works as per the Enervation spell.
CREATION
Requirements Craft Wondrous Item, Greater Dispel Magic, Enervation
Cost 41.000 gp
Here was I browsing the discount bin when I added 2 books (total around $6,00), checked the total and.. wooow! $28,00? How come? I went on adding the other 5 books in interested in (total around $33) and the grand total? $86!
Well, I have the AP subscription and I pay around 5 bucks each month for that book, so why is the S&H tax for these discount books so expensive? Bugs? Pure insanity?
Did the meaning of that name get lost in translation? I really can't figure out what it means, neither could I find anything about it on the net other than a site dedicated to Adobe's softwares...
CotCT and SD have two very interesting similarities: both start out as urban campaigns. As for now we only have Shadows in the Sky, Ill only talk about it and how it easily integrates to Edge. Note that it means keeping CotCT as the main campaign.
So, if you are a player, BACK OFF, SUCKER! ;)
Spoiler:
Note that, unfortunatly, I only got Shadows after the party was already on Eel's End, at the King's door. Even if it was late for me, it might not be with you.
Also, note that Im using PRPG's slow progression
The easier thing is the Set Piece. It can be in three easy ways:
- Cressida sends the party to investigate robbery around the Mission
- The party receives a tip that Beltias was Gaedren's connection (or raided his home) and holds either info or documents related to one or more characters' background
- Devargo wants the party to recover one the letters or other items stolen by someone around the Mission;
Which takes us to the adventure itself. If you replace the Golden Goblin for the Twin Tigers, with Saul replaced by Anpugit
How it connects to the party depends on how they act and the GM's taste. For example:
- "Cheat the Devil..." happens on the Twin Tigers, attracting the party either to investigate or shear curiosity
- Anpugit watches the party after they deal with Devargo and decides to hire them as bouncers/troubleshooters/bodyguards
- Devargo gives the party some quests instead of using diplomacy/knivies or after capturing the party
- Mako vs Old Scratch sounds very fitting for Korvosa
Individualy:
- The Flat on Rat Street = Anpugit, Devargo or a rival sends the party on the same reason or Cressida sends you to investigate a missing person
- Attackl on the Foamrunner = Same criminal minds above or the party is send to investigate smuggling of food (connected to Verik Vankercaskin's actions?)
- The Raid = An excellent encounter that fits in any case, including been sent by someone (Cressida? Devargo? Orisini?) to protect someone (or maybe even a raid to the Citadel!)
- The Boneyard = Aside from Cressida sending the party, it connects perfectly with 7 Days to the Grave
Thats it for now, as I didn't finish reading Second Darkness yet. More to come soon!
(while I still think its possible to connect "back to the gold goblin" to a chase after some criminal/escapee and trade Derro for Drow in either way further ahead)
Just as I was going to bed, I had an idea, and I had to write it down.
A tale in 2 hours! This one is longer (6 pages), but I believe its worth the read.
Did I mention I didnt sleep tonight?
-------
The door slammed shut, keeping the night's cool wind outside. With a grin on his face and the overweight bag on his arms, held close as a baby, Nidas nodded emphatically at his roommate.
The old man simply stared back at him from his table, where he put together yet another tinkled miniature.
- Why the stupid smile?
- I did it! - Nidas voice was almost a shriek. He looked around, surprised with himself. Then leaned forward and whispered. - I did it! I got lucky!
The old man mumbled a curse. He adjusted his glasses and got the small blade working again on the tin soldier on his calloused hands.
Irritated by the lack of interest of his roommate, the much younger Nidas gave large steps towards the table and dropped the bag heavily over the table. The old man's tools jumped and felt on the ground.
He looked at Nidas from over his glasses, then lowered himself to pick the tools from the floor. He certainly heard the sound of metal coming from inside the back.
- Did you steal a temples silverware or something?
- Hah! Nothing like this. Much much better! The solution to all our problems. A way out from this hell!
The old man finally put the miniature down, removed his glasses and turned his attention to Nidas. With a irritated sigh, he asked:
- What is in the damned bag?
- Ivani, you can throw this stupid tinkled and tools off. We wont need it anymore.
- Its what keeps money in this table.
- Not anymore!
Before Ivani could complain, Nidas picked the bag up and turned it upside. Coins, heavy chain necklaces, bracelets and rings poured down over the table and the floor. Gold, silver. Even platinum, for the looks of it. All ornate with colorful gems. Emeralds, rubies. Maybe even diamonds.
Ivani's eyes went wide. His bearded chin moved, but no voice came out of his cracked lips. Nidas laughed out loud and gave the old man a hard slap on the shoulder.
- We're rich! - he announced, then lowered his voice again, repeating himself. - We're rich!
- Where did you get this? - the old man finally managed to say, holding a large medallion with a eye-sized ruby circled by yellow topaz rays. A richman's dawning sun.
Nidas puffed his not-so-impressive chest and crossed his thin arms over it.
- I took it from a stupid traveler down the road.
The old man raised a white eyebrow.
- A man was traveling alone with all this jewelry?
- Yeah! Can you believe it? I still can't! I was coming back from the Telsing farm when I saw him singling some stupid song. The sound of all that gold tingling on his chest and hands! Was so easy!
- I hope you didn't kill him.
- Nah... - Nidas raised an eyebrow, looking up. - Or at least I don't think so. I hit him on the face. There was blood, but not enough to taint his white robes.
Something got Ivani's attention. He placed the jewelry down and turned back to Nidas. There was something on the old man's eyes. Fear?
- Did that man by any chance wear white gloves up above his elbows?
- Why, yes. I figured it was some eccentric weirdo.
Ivani's eyes opened wide. He immediately began to search the loot above the table with an uncommon eagerness.
- What? - asked Nidas, worried at the old man's reaction. - Whats wrong?
The old man stopped only when his hands found a platinum signet ring. He raised it up close to his eyes, examining it through his glasses. He mumbled a curse.
- What is it, Ivani?
- Do you know what this is? - he asked, showing Nidas the ring. There was a blazon on it, but he couldn't recognize.
- What? - he asked, urgently.
Ivani got up so suddenly his chair felt back. With large handfuls, he got the jewelry from the table and stuffed it back in the bag. Nidas watched dumbstruck.
- What? What are you doing!?
The old man continued replacing the stolen goods in the bag, making sure nothing was left on the table or the floor. Before Nidas could ask again, he was been pushed out of the house through the door.
- Hey! Wait! I paid for this month!
With a strength Nidas didn't think the retired soldier still had, Ivani grabbed the robber by the arm and pushed the loot bag hard on his chest.
- You robbed a prophet of the Kalistrade! This treasure is a curse! Get rid of hit and begone! I never heard of you!
The door slammed closed, leaving Nidas alone in the night.
As soon as he realizes that the gold and jewels were visible hanging from the bag, he looked around to be sure no one saw anything and rushed away. The streets were empty this late at night. It wouldn't be hard to find a place to stay the night. Not with gold and silver to pay for a nice room and warm food.
Ivani would regret kicking him out of the house.
Tonight would be the night of pleasure and wonders. And Nidas would be king.
** ** **
Three days after his perfect crime, Nidas was running out of coins. He sure had a lot of jewelry stashed on his room, but actual coins were quickly vanishing from his bag. He didn't complain at all. Not waking up on silks with two of the most adorable whores by his side, jars of fine wine on the floor and the best food he have ever tasted on his belly.
But such entertainment required maintenance. And it was about time he saw for the sale of his loot.
Been careful not to wake his expensive princesses, Nidas got off the bed and dressed on his old cloths. He smiled at the irony of it all. He was so involved in celebrating his riches that he never bothered to get new cloths. But he would, soon.
Nidas picked his bag from his secret place under the floor boards and slowly walked towards the door. He stopped, turning back to the girls on the bed. With a wicked smile, he picked two twin silver necklaces and placed each on one girl's hands. Then, with a goodbye kiss, he left for the streets.
Life on Eranmas was busy as usual this late in the morning. Most people were up for hours as Nidas left the inn. The port was busy with the arrival of trade ships from the other Lake Encarthan nations or long convoys of foodstuff from the fields. Nidas watched some of the indentured laborers walk pass the main avenue. Tired-looking, all, but still with a stupid appearance of pride. Nidas smirked, shaking his head. He would never to work a single day on his life again.
He finally made his way to Red Une, an old acquaintance who traded in more than kyonian arts.
Rushed back behind the counter and to the basement, Nidas soon poured his treasure above a table not unlike the one his shared with Ivani, neither with less theatricals. Red Une's eyes widened and the astute merchant was quickly examining the jewelry with a small eyepiece.
- Amazing. Truly amazing. Where did you get this again?
- Near the Nosam Bay. I guess they were from Razmiran.
The merchant nodded, his attention towards the jewels. Good, as if they were on Nidas Red Une might had seen through the lies. Behind his back, Nidas clutched the signet ring that caused all that mess to begin with. If an old soldier like Ivani recognized something bad in that ring's blazon, certainly someone so knowledgeable as Une would too. Best keep the facts to a minimum.
- I'm interested, for sure. But I can't pay for it all. Not yet. Five hundred gold.
- Non-sense! It's worth a lot more!
- It will be if I find someone interested. I can get you five hundred more if I find the right buyers. But I'll need the jewels with me. No one would buy jewelry without appraising it!
Nidas watched Une silently. He would like to have Ivani with him now. The old man was always the smart one of the duo. He would need to pretend to know what he was doing. Maybe this way the merchant wouldn't steal from him
- Six hundred gold pieces now, four later.
Red Une laughed good heartedly. He slapped Nidas on the arm and went for his safe under a nearby desk. Out of it he drew three leather pouches. He places them over the table.
- Get back to me in four days. I'll have the rest of your money.
Nidas didn't reply or look back. He just grabbed the pouches and left, a large grin on his face. He soon realized that people would suspect of such a man like him with tingling pouches and a stupid smile on his face. It might be time to open a bank account or something of the sorts.
No! It would draw too much suspicious! He would get new cloths, have something for dinner and just then look for a bank. There was a Temple of Abadar somewhere nearby. It wouldn't be much trouble. And as least his profit would be safe there. Ha! Who needed Ivani to do the thinking?
** ** **
Hours later and looking a lot more like the richman he now was, Nidas returned to the inn. He had kept one pouch with some gold in it. He needed some for expenses, even if he decided it was time to rest a bit from celebrations.
Sadly, as he reached his room he found out that both whores had already left. The innkeeper said they had left showing off his gift, saying they would go back to the brothel to sleep a beauty sleep and were expecting Nidas for dinner.
With a smile on his face, Nidas tipped the innkeeper for the message with a gold piece and left again. He wanted to see how people looked at him in his new cloths, shaved and bathed, and feeling great.
But people seemed to not notice. Nidas felt sad, but realized maybe it was because they didn't know him before. Of course! Ivani would react beautify to the new Nidas! But, unfortunately, and that time the old man was probably on the streets selling his junk trinkets.
He headed straight for the brothel, meaning to visit the girls a little earlier and surprise them.
But he himself was surprised to find a very irritated matron who haven't seen her girls since the night he took them to his inn. Nidas tried to explain they had dinner, but other guests arrived and the matron decided to ignore him.
Nidas worried of what could have happened. Did his princesses ran away with the expensive necklaces? Ah, of course! Damned women must had used Nidas all the time, just waiting for that piece of jewelry that would buy them their freedom from an easy life!
Red Une would know, of course. Everyone in Eranmas knew Red Une and not few knew of what he traded in on his basement. The girls would have contacted him.
But Red Une didn't know of any girls. With hushed angry tones, Red Une told Nidas to disappear until the scheduled date or it would draw suspicious to his business. Nidas was rushed out of the store and back to the streets.
Once again, Nidas felt lonely.
As much as he detested think of it, in the end there was only one person who gave a damn about him.
** ** **
Night had fallen over the rooftops when Ivani finally got home. Nidas got up from the doorstep where he had been seating for the last hours.
The old man stopped as soon as he realized who it was.
- Get away, Nidas. I have enough problems as it is.
- Hey, Ivani... look. I'm sorry if I did something stupid. Look! - he said, raising his arms. - I got hid of the loot!
Ivani eyes Nidas up and down.
- I see you used up some of that money.
- A man has to eat, you know.
The two men eyes each other in silence for several seconds, before Ivani walked towards the door, unlocking it.
- Come in. Its getting cold outside.
They entered the old house. Ivani placed his unsold wares over the table and opened a piece of cloth, revealing bread and cheese.
- Its not much, but will have to do. There was a lot of confusion downtown. Took me too long to get across with my wares and to the bakery.
- I figured as much. You never got home so late.
Ivani shrugged. - I need to pay for the house all by myself now. Besides, the guard was all over the place because of some back alley murder.
Nidas nodded, approaching the table.
- You know... I can pay for the rent.
- Are you going to live in this hole now that you are rich?
- No... I mean. I can pay for you. To live here.
Ivani took his seat. He cut a piece of cheese and bread. He bit a mouthful of it and washed it down with water before replying.
- I no beggar. I work for a living.
Nidas sighed, pulling a chair and sitting down.
- C'mon. Don't be hard on me. I can help.
- Not with your cursed money.
- Whats so wrong with my money?
Ivani placed his food down, eying Nidas.
- You really don't know?
The look on Nidas face must have answered the question, for Ivani sighed, shaking his head. Then the old man began to explain.
- The Prophecies of the Kalistrade, the religion of Druma, says that the only way to show your worth to the world is by showing your material wealth.
- Yeah. That explains why that moron was walking alone with so much gold on him.
- That moron did that because he certainly spend some of that gold to place wards and protections all over himself and his jewelry.
Nidas was caught off-guard.
- What you mean?
- I mean that right now that moron either has a curse going on you or bounty hunters tracking you. I wouldn't be surprised if its even an assassin.
Nidas eyes went wide open. Curses? Bounty Hunters? Assassins!?
- OK, wait. Stop. What you mean? No, that can't be serious.
- Why do you think I kicked you out? That prophet probably knows exactly were his jewelry is right now.
Nidas felt for his pocket, where he placed the signet ring. He got up suddenly.
- I got to go.
Nidas left the house and the old man, never looking back.
** ** **
He walked the streets aimlessly for hours, unsure of where he was or what to do. It was not that he intended to mislead his would-be killers, if there were indeed any, but he simply was too astonished by it all to think straight.
How he, who has ever been a no one, a low-life who did small jobs for a living and mugged old ladies for an extra, ended up nemesis of a foreign priest with a merchant-lord's fortune.
When Nidas finally stopped, he realized he was standing before Red Une's store. The man's house was above the store. The merchant certainly would curse him endlessly for bringing trouble to his home, where his wife and children could hear, but they certainly would be worried about Une's risk of death, right?
Maybe it was an unconscious guilt that had brought him to his footsteps, so it might be a good idea to go ahead and do something good with his life.
Inhaling some courage, Nidas knocked the door.
It swung open with a low screech.
Nidas looked around to see if anyone heard it, then entered the building.
He had come through that door once before. It lead both up to the house and down to the basement. A door lead to the back of the store.
Stupid as he might be, Nidas didn't think it wise to go up the stairs and scare Une's family, probably leading to the guard been called on him. Besides, he could see the faint light of candles somewhere on the basement.
Nidas descended the stairs, slowly, calling Une repeatedly in a low voice.
A sound caught he attention. The sound of a moan. A window opened downstairs.
Nidas rushed down to find Red Une laying on the floor. His face was twisted in an horrid look of pure fear, his mouth gapping open. Blood oozed from twin cuts on his silk pajamas.
The first thing that occurred to Nidas was that he wouldn't be seen the other five hundred gold pieces.
The second was that the assassin probably was still somewhere in the basement.
He stumbled back on the stairs, looking around. The candles over the table did a poor job at illuminating the room, even with its small size. It all seemed in place, even though there was no clues of what Une would be doing on the basement this late. There was nothing over the table besides his appraising eyepiece.
Nidas looked for the safe, and found it open. Inside he noticed two leather pouches like the ones Une gave him for the jewels earlier and some scrolls. No sign of the stolen jewelry. Not thinking twice, Nidas grabbed the pouches and looked for a quick exit. There was a small window open, leading to the street level. It struck him as odd. Une had painted the glass so that no one could look in to his shady business. So why would he keep it open?
Resorting for the obvious, Nidas went back up the stairs and out through the back door to the streets.
It was time to disappear from Eranmas and Molthune altogether. With this money he could buy himself a trip far away. Maybe start a new life in Varisia. People always said there was a city for people just like him there. He might visit this Riddleport, why not?
He felt sorry for Red Une and the girls, realizing they probably both dead now too.
But at least both he and Ivani were safe. After all, he had rid himself of all the jewelry. What remained was gold from Une. Untraceable.
Nidas was home free.
Movement at corner of his eye caught his attention. He heard a strange noise, like an insect's song.
His eyes when wide open with realization. His hand touched his pocket.
The signet ring.
When Nidas looked back, there he was, silent in all his might.
The red-clad armored man wore a helmet like an insect's head. He did not need to speak a thing. Nidas simply couldn't move.
The man approached slowly, raising twin serrated blades. They danced before Nidas eyes in fluid motions. Fear strangely seemed to seep away. Nidas attention was fully on the dance of the blades. He felt a strange inner peace at watching them.
Nidas was found the next morning still holding the gold pouches close to himself, twin deadly wounds on his chest. No one would realize that the only missing object was a platinum signet ring belonging to a priest from Druma.
The Red Mantis never had had an easier assignment.
So, there we are with a Gazeteer (and soon finally a campaign book!) with dozens of new regions. There are stories and backgrounds for all tastes
But which one really caught your attention? Where are you leading your players or where you will lead then on your future adventures? What regions you are interested in telling (and hearing!) stories from? And why?
Ive been personally attracted to the "unusual" ones. Unusual in the sense of been different from the norm.
Right now Im working on an adventure in Irrisen. The idea of Baba Yaga, the witch covens and villages in snowy regions caught my attention. Sprinkle some Lovecraft and you got something really exciting ;)
The idea behind Geb really got me. I actually havent been thinking of adventures, but stories and situations themselves, considering the makeup of this realm The same goes to the Sodden Lands and the Realm of the Mammoth Lords
The religious side of Druma, Rahadoum and Razmiran... Too many ideas to fit a single campaign ;)
