jeff turner 936's page

Tiri as she is known to her fellow protectors of the night (children of Westcrown ) has grown much since she has met her new friends.. She has attended a huge gala put on by the mayor of Westcrown , delved into the sewers a few times in search for those who hide from justice. She has also found time to aid those less fortunate in Westcrown going about the poorer sections of the city using gold she has gained from such adventures putting it to good use. Tiri has given gold to orphanages, destitute families in need , and even a few temples so that they may aid those in need. Tiri presently still is unaware of her birth right but does at least know her grandmother is from Westcrown. Tiri knows she was a pathfinder , gathering that information was tedious at best. Tiri hopes the foray into the long abandoned pathfinder lodge of Delvehaven in the near future will shed more light on her heritage.

((( it has truly been fun to run this character . I enjoy all my character as I put in vast amounts of time in their backstory . She however is my all time favorite. I will give a brief encounter we had to show you as why that is so .. Tiri is NG alignment. A character she has feelings for and whom has feelings for her is a noble though a smaller house of cheliax and also a member of the adventuring group . He began play a a brawler and has since as we leveled became a Hell knight. As he did so his alignment shifted from LG to LN . Well they were sent to apprehend and bring to justice one of the Dottari of the canals whom had been getting kickbacks or payments from his position . The fight was actually tough but we prevailed. He was manacled and shackled. His Ill gotten gains placed upon his body by the hell knight. Tiri thought nothing of it since it was better he carried it than her . Well as they crossed a bridge over the canals the Hell knight simply shoved the man over into the canal . Tiri was beside herself jumping in after him in an expensive gown she had just bought. She couldn't save the man and as she climbed from the canal she hit the other character in the chest screaming at him for what he had done . Why waste time healing him after the fight if you were just going to kill him anyway she screamed . The hell knight was actually doing justice in his eyes by killing him in the very canals he watched over.. There is now angst between the two characters though they also have still real feelings .. It has truly been a blast to play ..

We are currently playing the COT series and as a player I am enjoying it a lot. What our GM did was to have our back story involve either being from Westcrown or having some tie into it. One player is a minor noble of the Nolman family and has seen enough of the crime and corruption. He has since became a Hell knight of the Scourge. This allows him to do things to offset the normal dealings in Westcrown and stop said corruption. Another character is a famous actor . He played the part of Larazad of coarse and too wants to rid the city of the shadows so more plays can be set and more fame can be gained. Another player is from Westcrown as well and began as a bartender/cleric of Cayden. He too wants the nights to return to normal and corruption to end so he can make more profits. I am playing a character that took the trait chelish noble and lost nobility feat which let me with my GM's permission be a direct descendent of Sheraya Solistar, the last Imperial Princess. My character does not truly yet know her royal bloodline and has been a fun to RP her trying to gain clues. She just recently found out her surname of Solistar as Sheraya is her grandmother whom she was named after but nothing but a tarnished signet ring with many flaws was passed down . She bore a son with the guide that she was to go on a mission with into the Tusk mountains. My character is a oracle and follower of Desna whom has lead her to Westcrown . The GM also as far as I know has been using Raynulf's works to further enhance our game. He has also added little side things that shine a light on each of our chars at different times . The actor who is a medium ( what better way to be over the top in your roles but being able to channel actual spirits of the dead whom lived that type of life) has found a cursed item highly magical that actually belonged to one of the spirits he has summoned so we are seeking out info on it . The noble has passed the trial of the hell knight by fighting a devil mono au mono in the devil dome part of it and recently had his ceremony. We are all avid RP players so by immersing our characters into the woven threads of cheliax the GM hasn't had to really coerce us to trying to help the city . I am unsure where it all ends but I am having a blast .. My thoughts is have your players make good back stories that involve them somehow in Westcrown and IMOP have them play good or neautrla type chars with good tendencies at least.

thanks.. I see your point.. The person was thinking of using it being inside since they were water based but I didn't think it could be used that way ..

would a character who has a swim speed and breath underwater (undine)still gain the entangled condition with this spell ? I know what the spell description states but not sure as a GM how I'd rule it . any thoughts or ideas are really appreciated .. thanks

the game is going quite well .. we just finished the knot part of the AP .. It was a very hard taxing adventure in the Knot... I have changed characters to more round out the group. She is more of a healer as it seemed we were close to death many times. It does however make for a much more exciting game when the next hit you take would drop you lolol.. The GM has varied the story arc somewhat choosing to follow others suggestions and to me it works seamlessly thus far .. Drevynn my old character is still a member of the children of West-Crown but more so an NPC now . He married Tarvi so in the end it was better RP wise to have him semi retire . My new character has no love interests and her backstory is unique in that it has ties to Sheraya Solistar.. I'll keep you updated when more of her backstory comes out to the group but for now wish to keep it more secret..

I have been engaged in playing this game for a few sessions. I sort of played my first character to a place where he had fallen in love with Tarvi , an npc of the children of Westcrown. I decided with permission from the GM that he would marry her and still aid as a member of the children of Westcrown but i would bring in another character. I had a thought running in my mind to make a character sort of like Daenyrs from GOT. I fiddled around finally deciding to make her an oracle dual cursed spirit guide . I choose tongues as main curse (Daenyrs seems to speak a lot of languages so it fit)with haunted as a second curse. The new Draconic mystery would be my next choice . I took the revelation Presence of Dragons so that twice a day I can essentially attempt to make enemies shaken with fear (again very good fit in my mind). The second revelation I took was Draconic Resistances so that as I level I become more resistant to fire (another fit I feel to the concept). For the spirit guide part I took the Restoration spirit. I then took Shield of Succor so that I can boost someone's htpts as temporary htpts. These were taken so that the essence of her talking or giving a speech would rally others. I took also the Improved familiar feat at 3rd level granting me access to a dragon, although tiny, called a Pyrausta. I also took good summoning also as a feat so when not buffing the group through words I can summon dragons (pseudo-dragons, faerie dragons , later levels young adult bronze and gold dragons ). I know she will never be exactly as Daenyrs because of game mechanics but it is close enough for my concept. So now armed with this info I needed only to somehow make her lost nobility of some sort. I read all I could on Cheliax and its history. I found Sheraya Solistar named as the last heir to the imperial throne. I decided to write my backstory with Sheraya tied into it. I took the trait Keleshite Princess and made is custom (gms permission) Cheliaxian Princess using the same benefits as the prior trait. So now she is lost nobility as well so the concept was set. Unlike Daenyrs however my character knows nothing of her lineage as you will read in the following backstory . I felt it was a great way to bring her into the story arc of COT. I also left open the door for the GM to use her lineage against the group or simply never have it come to light. Here detailed below is her story . I hope you enjoy it

Tiri’Sheraya Alyrrien

Eiliff Alyrrien was a well-known guide in the northern lands. Sheraya Solistar was a Chelaxian by birth but had journeyed to the far north lands to plan a secretive mission for the pathfinder society. Sheraya was at first taken back by Eiliff’s forwardness. She often wondered how a man could speak to a woman in such tones. She was heir to the Imperial Throne of Cheliax after all. Eiliff however treated her as he treated any other woman, though perhaps with a little less bravado or sexual innuendo. Sheraya for the first time in her life wasn’t treated differently. Sheraya found herself enjoying the playful banter as the days turned into long cold nights. She found herself drawn more and more to this Ulfen. She wondered in her mind if it wasn’t perhaps divine will that brought them together. Sheraya found herself longing for this Ulfen in a way she had no other. They formed a unique bond over the many seasons it took to plan the mission. They became lovers in the spring of 4633 A.R. The lovers were never married yet were tied as one in a way few ever find in many lifetimes. Sheraya bore a son they named Tallak Alyrrien in 4634 A.R. They spent much time together until finally the plans were done for the great mission. Tallak still a child was taken to a family living on the outskirts of Trollheim in a farming/trapping community that Eiliff knew well. Sheraya and Eiliff kissed their son good-bye as they set forth upon their secret mission. Elliff and Sheraya were lost to the world on that mission into caverns beneath the Tusk Mountains in 4638 A.R. They both went missing presumed to have joined the great spirits of the north. A few other adventurers went to find anything they could of what happened but found nothing to speak of. Tallak however remained in the village growing strong. Tallak learned to hunt and fight as other men of the village. Tallak then met Ellisa, a strikingly beautiful Priestess of Desna from Trollheim, as she spent time tending to the old and sick . Tallak Alyrrien and Ellisa Deicynn married the following spring. They both decided to settle in the small village Tallak called home as members of the Whitemoon clan. They lived for many years childless. Tallak was about to give up hope yet Ellisa kept her faith praying to Desna each mourn and night for a child. Her prayers were heard and they finally had a child. The couple had a daughter naming her Tiri’Sheraya after her grandmothers.
Tiri’Sheraya was born in the far north in a small hunting village outside Trollheim. Tiri’Sheraya grew up learning the lands, how to survive, but most importantly the teachings of Desna from her mother. The winters came and went as Tiri’Sheraya grew. One particularly harsh winter when Tiri was 11 seasons old their village was raided. Her father Tallak fought bravely as did her mother. They both perished in the onslaught as did many other villagers. The attackers however were held at bay yet now Tiri’Sheraya was without a family. The village elder conferred with others trying to decide the young girl’s fate. Tiri’Sheraya however didn’t feel her path led to remaining in the small village being forced wed to another for a few goats or a barrel of rum. Tiri’Sheraya felt the will of Desna leading her on a different path. Tiri’Sheraya spoke bravely “my friends and family. I have grown up here with you in this place. I will always call this place home. My place however is somewhere beyond our fences and village. The Queen of the North, Mother of the Moon, the Tender of Dreams beckons me forth. I do not where my path shall lead but I feel within my very essence I must go.” Drognar, the village chieftain, listened to the young girl’s pleas “your words are not that of a child, but of a woman. No longer will we see that in you. Take what you can of your family with you as you go upon this journey. Know you shall forever be part of the Whitemoon clan. Go in peace our daughter, may the Mother of the Moon always look over you. Tiri’Sheraya gathered what meager things they had packing them in her mother’s backpack. Tiri’Sheraya then walked from the village as she said a silent prayer to Desna “Great Queen of the North, Mother of the Moon guide my steps to where it is you lead. “Tiri’Sheraya turned westward drawn by an unknown force or merely fate.
The journey was harsh and cold but winter had not yet set in. Tiri’Sheraya walked for weeks until she seen a large city ahead. She had heard of Kalsgard before but never envisioned it to be so large. Tiri’Sheraya entered the city finding an Inn to stay at called the White Griffon. She paid the barkeep the 2 silver a night fee, taking the key going to her room. She stowed her gear and rested from her journey. The next morning, she awoke dressing quickly before heading out to walk about the town. Tiri’Sheraya found a temple of the Goddess Desna and entered. Tiri’Sheraya spoke to the priestess there whom had heard of her mother. The priestess offered her a place to stay within the temple if she wished to learn more of the teachings. Tiri’Sheraya nodded thanking her. She then walked about the city until almost dusk. Tiri’Sheraya repacked her gear that evening going to the temple to stay. Tiri’Sheraya remained in the temple for the next 5 seasons learning Desna’s teachings, about the lands not only here but afar, as well as more about her family. Her grandfather Eiliff was well known it seemed. Eiliff was a skilled hunter and tracker. He was a guide to many caravans and hunts in the great northern lands. He was renowned for his skills in tracking as well as surviving the brutal northern nights. Her maternal grandparents and lineage were easily found. They were from Trollheim and of some noble birth but of no titles really. They owned an Inn/Tavern called the Drunken Goat as well as a few minor trading posts between Trollheim and Kalsgard. She had one blank left to fill yet had no information other than she was named after her. Tiri’Sheraya could not find much about her grandmother on her father’s side and that mystery intrigued her. She didn’t even know her grandmothers given surname. This intrigued her so she spent much of her time trying to piece the puzzle together looking through old tomes that belonged to her mother. The puzzle though could not be solved easily. She found an old book about Cheliax during a day of selling furs in Trollheim. Cheliax was the place her grandmother came from, but she found nothing on her last name in the old tome. Tiri’Sheraya decided perhaps the answers she sought would be in Cheliax. Tiri’Sheraya was now 16 seasons old. She felt she was ready or so she thought.
Tiri’Sheraya said goodbye to the frigid cold and winds of the lands she knew. She booked passage on a ship bound for Magnimar named the Blue Mermaid. Magnimar was a large city such as Kalsgard she knew from her studies. The ship was a merchant ship and guarded well. Tiri’Sheraya was looked after well by the ship’s crew mainly because of her holy symbol. The sailors weren’t devout in any religions but having a servant of the Goddess of travelers wasn’t a bad thing. Tiri’Sheraya however found ocean traveling to be at best boring. She spent time aboard the ship studying the teachings of the Mother of the Moon. Shereya however would aid in healing the crew when needed. The voyage took almost 2 months to complete but finally she heard the lookout call down Magnimar off the port bow. Tiri’Sheraya was mesmerized by the size of the city and the hustle and bustle of the port as they pulled into harbor. The ship docked and soon she found herself again on solid ground for which she was thankful. Tiri’Sheraya said goodbye to the crew and captain heading off to find a place to stay. She walked the streets for about an hour before asking a guard “Do you know if there is a library perhaps with an inn near it? “The guard replied “well Miss " as the guard studied her. “Ohh pardon me" Tiri’Sheraya replied “I am Tiri’Sheraya Alyrrien. “The guard smiled as he glanced over the young beauty “Well Lady Alyrrien the library is on the hill about a quarter mile to the east. There is also an inn nearby called the Stone Sword. Tiri’Sheraya thanked the guard whom smiled. She then turned and traveled up the stone path to the inn. Tiri’Sheraya found a room and rested.
The next morning, she visited the great library. Tiri’Sheraya read on Cheliax’s history and of the noble houses that call it home. She didn’t find any mention of her family’s name anywhere in the books. "Perhaps Magnimar is too far removed from Cheliax to have a complete history. I guess I shall have to find a way to Cheliax." she thought to herself. Tiri’Sheraya found a small temple to Desna and began working to make some coins for her travels south. She helped heal and lead sermons in the town streets about the Mother of the Moon and Tender of Dreams. Tiri’Sheraya was good at speaking to others. The priest in the temple however had difficulties pronouncing her name and simply called her Tiri. Tiri spent most days when not in the temple walking the streets speaking different languages to get a good grasp on them. Tiri spent a few seasons gathering gold for her trip to Cheliax.
Tiri booked passage on a ship from Magnimar to Kintargo in Cheliax. It was a merchant ship but this time she was paid to work so the trip went by rather quickly. Tiri left the ship heading deeper into the city. Having studied this city in books in Magnimar Tiri made her way to the Villegre district. She knew from her research that the Alabaster Academy was in this district. She walked and found an Inn called the Green Rose Inn not far from it. Tiri paid for a room for a week and rested once more from the second leg of her journey. The next morning Tiri rose, dressed and headed to the Alabaster Academy. She read some books on the history of Cheliax but again found nothing on her family name Alyrrien. She left a little dejected thinking perhaps she mistook her father’s words that her grandmother grew up in Cheliax. Maybe he was mistaken, after all he said she left him for a pathfinder mission when he was only 4. Maybe her father didn’t truly recall her words right. Tiri was alone in her thoughts as she walked towards the inn. Suddenly she ran into someone or got ran into but in either case she found herself lying on the ground. Tiri looked up seeing a large man in armor with an insignia she didn’t recognize. The large man called down “watch where you are going peasant, I have no time to waste on you. You should move out of the way for a Knight of the Torrent. “Tiri backed up slowly on her hips, “I was minding my own." Tiri Quipped. The knight snapped back “say another word and I’ll put you in irons “Tiri decided it was not a place to stand on her own so she spoke softly “my apologies brave Knight. I am sorry I wasn’t paying attention and got in your way, please forgive me “The knight grunted a little and walked on. Tiri was shocked and quickly rose to her feet and scurried to the safety of the Inn. She calmed her nerves with a drink before bed. The next morning, she again dressed quickly and went to the academy. Tiri looked up the Knight orders of Cheliax so she would know next time if she ever ran into one. She also reread the laws and rules of Cheliax more in depth finding out the Worshiping of the Mother of the Moon was outlawed as were many others. Tiri grasped her holy symbol placing it under her shirt. She continued to read more and more. Tiri found that perhaps the best place to find things out may be in the old Cheliax capital of WestCrown. Tiri read of Abagail Thrune’s ascension to the throne and how it occurred. She knew she would need to be careful in her travels as well as what she told others. She went around the city later that day looking for anything heading to WestCrown. There was a ship heading there but after the last two voyages she was more than happy when she found a small trade caravan heading over the Meandor Mountains. She hired on as a healer and cook. The pay wasn’t much but it did get her out of this city and closer to Westcrown.
The 4-wagon caravan left out the eastern gates of Kintargo early the next day. Tiri rode in the middle wagon. Though the ride was rough at times it was still better than endless days on the seas. The days were filled with the breathtaking beauty of nature while the nights were full of tales of valor and ale. Tiri could see the Meandor Mountains off in the distance. The next few days came and went as the mountains came closer and closer. The next night they camped at the base of the mountains and in the morrow, would begin the trek through them on their way to Dekarium on the north shore of Lake Sorrow. The sun rose high in the sky as the wagons began moving along the mountainous terrain. Tiri could see animals moving away as they approached. The guards were lucky enough to kill a deer for the first night’s meal. Tiri cooked it up well on the open fire careful not to ruin the taste with over seasoning. The following days were full of more arduous travel but at last they camped nearing the final push out of the mountains. The night went by peacefully enough though the next day would test their metal.
The next morning as the sun rose high in the sky. The caravan had been traveling for a few hours so they decided to stop for a rest when suddenly from the surrounding hills a large group of bandits attacked. The guards readied for the onslaught and fought bravely. Tiri did her best to keep them alive but the bandits overwhelmed them. Tiri ran for her life into the mountains as the fierce battle ended. Tiri ran until nightfall when the chill of the mountains cut her to the bone. Tiri used her magic to start a small fire and warm herself. She then heard a noise but seen nothing as she looked out into the night sky. She called out but there was no reply. Tiri took up her father’s dagger in her hand readying for an attack yet none came. Tiri awoke the next morning and shook off the cold. She had no idea where she was or how to get to Westcrown from here. She started to put out the fire when she thought she seen something move a few feet away. She still held the dagger as she inched closer. She found what looked like a tiny grasshopper on its back barely alive. She was unsure what to do so she scooped it up to get a better look. It wasn't a grasshopper at all but some type of tiny dragon. The limp little dragon didn’t move and was about to die when Tiri recalled reading a book in Magnimar’s vast Acadamae about a similar creature. Tiri then prayed to Desna for guidance. Tiri felt a peaceful calm as she held the tiny dragon in her hands. Tiri prayed as she closed her eyes casting a spell that she uses to start fires upon the tiny dragon. The pain was unbearable yet Tiri felt calm as the fire spark from her hands encased the tiny dragon. Tiri’s eyes watered from the pain but she thought to herself perhaps this was a test from her Goddess. She held her hands closed tightly until all at once the tiny dragon moved within her hands. She opened her hands letting go and it flew up. Tiri looked at her hands seeing the red singed skin, the pain ever present. Tiri prayed for the Mother of the Moon’s blessing to heal her as a flash of blue light came over her singed hands. She felt relief as she touched her burnt skin watching as the skin renewed and the pain disappeared. The tiny dragon then spoke " I am Dragos, thank you for saving me, I was drawn to find you. " Tiri smiled as she looked at this unique creature " I am Tiri’Sheraya Alyrrien, I am glad you are well Dragos, it seems fate was on both our paths this day. The two talked for a few hours fast becoming friends. The sun set high in the sky as Tiri gathered her gear. Tiri looked at Dragos “I need to get to Westcrown, but am afraid I do not know the way.” Dragos growled a little “Westcrown is an evil place haunted by shadows and devils. Why would you wish to go there Tiri? “Tiri whispered “I am searching for answers to who I am. My grandmother whom I’m named after was from Westcrown. I hope to find answers there.” Dragos muttered something then spoke “I will go with you to keep you safe but you need to listen to me when in Cheliax. It is a very dangerous place for us both.” Tiri nodded in agreement and stood. Their lives now had become intertwined by fate. Drago told her of his spark that kept his heart beating and all about his kind called Pyrausta's. The two made their way through the mountains down into the city of Dekarium. Tiri got many strange looks as it seems Dragos was a bit of an oddity to most. She found an inn called the Great Elm to rest for the night. Some of the guest in the tavern of the inn were curious of Dragos. The barkeep of course charged extra for the exotic pet seeing as it was staying with Tiri. They slept a good night’s rest as Tiri felt Dragos curl up around her feet on the bed.
The next day Tiri walked in town with Dragos on her shoulder. Many stared but few said anything directly. Tiri asked around for passage to Westcrown. A small barge was headed there later though it would take 6 days to reach Westcrown. Tiri didn’t mind if it wasn’t on the open sea. They boarded the small barge and soon were on their way across Lake Sorrow. The barge moved passed Egorian the new capital of Cheliax. The journey was far shorter than any had been since she left Kalsgard. The small barge pulled into the docks along the shore of Westcrown. Tiri quickly gathered her things and left the barge. She was greeted by two armed guards on the dock. The bigger guard spoke “Welcome to Westcrown, there is a 4-silver tax to enter the Rego Spera. Tiri gave him the coins and they let her pass. Tiri noted most didn’t look twice at Dragos perched upon her shoulders as they walked. Tiri walked along the Spera until she came across an Inn called Arodennia. The barkeep told her it would be 5 silver a night for a room. Tiri agreed paying him 2 gold as she knew she would be staying for a few nights. She went up to her room unpacked her gear looking out her window onto the busy streets. She finally closed her eyes and rested.
The next morning Tiri rose and dressed eager to find a library with information in it. She walked to the library and was allowed in. She was confused when she read the tomes as they differed greatly from what she had already found in other cities. There were missing parts and years it seemed. She however found no mention of her family’s name anywhere. Tiri did overhear some whispers though of a secret band of heroes that had been working to make Westcrown better. The information was scattered and didn’t make much sense but it intrigued her for some reason. She walked around town that day listening to rumors and trying to gather what information she could. She decided to go check out the pathfinder lodge she had read about as well. Tiri knew her grandmother belonged to the pathfinder organization so what better place to begin searching she thought. Tiri was turned away by two heavily armed men as she tried to gain entrance. Tiri tried everything she knew to get passed them even bribery but that only lost her 5 gold in the process. Tiri walked away thinking “that’s odd, she was sure her Grandmother Sheraya would have been part of the group.” Her mind was at odds now. Was the trip she undertook all for naught? Why would the Mother of the Moon lead her all this way to this city? She sat in the tavern that evening thinking about all she knew. She heard rumors of the heroes killing shadow beasts, taking out whole tribes of goblins. Some even said they are scions of Aroden come to reclaim WestCrown and its people. Other spoke less fondly calling them nothing but rabble rousers and soon Thrune agents would surely mark people who may side with them for the Queen. She had a restless night sleep that evening. The next few days were spent trying to find information on the Pathfinder’s lodge and the people who guarded it. She also listened for any more rumors of the heroes but heard very few. She did however hear many stories about a murder play that was to be held. Many of the people she passed on the street were beside themselves with excitement over it. Tiri gathered what she could also about the play but found the price for a ticket to high for her meager tastes. She went back to the inn. Tiri ate a good meal and went to her room and prayed to the Mother of the Moon for her guidance.

(( we play every 2nd Monday so in between our sessions we use the downtime from events in game to email in our group tings our chars would use this time for . here are a few examples and includes what Bomanz was speaking of as well in the form of a parody song I wrote due to information from our GM regarding our downtime and what we have heard rumored))

GM post to our group the following

Amaya Kaijutsu will speak up during your discussion.

"What a splendid idea, to sort of form a small chorus to perform under patronage from some of Kerne's associates! There are many smaller Operas that can be performed with a small group of people that would be very sought after by those who seek a more private experience, and not having to worry about hiring a group of strangers that might have problems working as an ensemble should be highly attractive to perspective clientele. Even Blaise, whose parents were famous and have obviously passed on their talents seems willing to put his solo career on hold to work together....." Her eyelashes flutter as she trails off, before giving a large sigh and then blushing furiously.

Gorvio arrives later with some amusing, but concerning rumors.

Apparently Thesing Ulvaud, semi-famous Operatic thespian had a disastrous performance. One of the horses he had on stage with him chose the climactic aria to defecate, and Thesing had unknowingly stepped in it, which caused several missed notes. Further, when Thesing swung a prop (a large floppy hat with a big feather in the brim) at the horse, it reared and bucked, which caused the other horses to flee the stage and run amok. Gorvio's poor uncle Jaccovo and a hired hand had a difficult time rounding up the horses.

The bigger problem seems to be that Thesing has put around a small bounty for information regarding a common bar singer/stable boy that had dared to question the great virtuoso. Right now the bounty is only for information about where this common bard/stable boy works and stays, but Gorvio believes that Thesing might be trying to set up Drevynn.

((here is my post in reply to what my character does ))

Drevynn will smoke his pipe as he listens to the lovely Amaya . Drevynn watches as she flirts with Blaise and turns his attention elsewhere as it still is somewhat irksome he was not chosen by her , but life is life after all .He will get a flagon of mead and settle in alone at a corner chair and simply watch and listen .

Drevynn will listen to Gorvio's words carefully. Drevynn will tap out his pipe after hearing Gorvio's words and stand to speak " well it seems I have a follower and admirer. I feel it best not to stay here because if there is gold offered then surely someone will see me and having this place as a place of refuge for our group is needed . I shall go and barter a room at Arodennia's , the large inn we first met in .I shall offer my bardic performances to hopefully offset my staying there . I'm sure Theising shall have little trouble finding me there and at least your identities will remain intact . I shall go there and lie low as it were until whatever he has planned is done . You can send word to me I'm sure if my services are needed . It would also seem perhaps until this matter is taken care of that my place in the bardic group should as well be put off until the matter is done . Perhaps to ingratiate yourself with Thesing in some way one of you could give him my whereabouts , no reason why we shouldn't benefit from his offering . Do not worry I've lived through worse than angering a no account hack of an actor whose pompous and arrogant . " Drevynn will then take a long drink from his flagon of mead and nod to the group and leave to head over to Arodennia's. Drevynn will use his street smarts(stealth) to get to the inn hopefully not followed but will check often to see if he is or not . Once at the Inn Drevynn will barter for a room (diplomacy) offering up his songs and string instrument skills . Drevynn writes a small lyric as well ..............((( I should be rewarded for my ingenuity in writing this btw lolol )))

have you all heard the tale of Thesing the bold , who messed up his notes or so I was told

as he strode onto stage where a horse once had tread , stepping in s#~& clean up to his head

but alas that's not the end of the gruesome tail , for with a flick of his cap the horses set sail ,

running amok and trashing the place , leaving poor Thesing with more than egg on his face .

the tien woman is actually one of the Npc's we were introduced to in game Amaya .. I however was unable to win her affection as she seems smitten with an actor in our group but it made for awesome angst and role-play .. Drevynn had a tough time accepting the other PC and at first was angered by him and Amaya's budding romance played out well by the GM and other PC . But as time has passed he sees it for what it has come to be and is ok with it .

ty for taking the time to reply and so far it has been an awesome experience game wise

This is a character history for an upcoming COT I have been invited to play in . We will have 5 players and were asked by our GM to make up back history to link us in Westcrown , using campaign traits . This is my story thus far though I have a week before our first game and once the GM tells me of a NPC choice there will be more . I do hope you enjoy it and please expect grammar errors as I am not a polished writer though it is one of my many joys in life .

Drevynn Albus

Drevynn was born on the outskirts of Westcrown to a fairly wealthy family. He was born one bright summer morning ministered to by mid-wives who to this day still speak of an angelic light shining though the old home’s window upon his birth. Drevynn’s Father Ezekiel worked as millwright and was paid well for his knowledge in working stone. His father was also fond of taverns, some of Drevynn’s earliest memories are of his father taking him to those places. Drevynn loved to hear the music and told himself one day he would be there on the stage and people would come watch him play. His father worked hard and knowing of his son’s interests bought him a wooden lyre to practice on. Drevynn spent many days and nights learning and practicing. One night his father left to go out for a night of drinking after a hard day’s work in the mill and never returned. His mother knew the town streets had become unsafe at night so she forbid him to take their son Drevynn. Drevynn’s mother Rhia told Drevynn that his father got work in a large city far away and that he would send for them once he was settled. That day never came of course, as the days turned into years. Drevynn still had a fondness for playing music and one summer as a young teen of 12 seasons swept up a merchant’s building each day to earn enough for a fine quality Lyre the man had for sale.

Drevynn was entering his later teens when his mom became ill and passed one winter. Upon her death bed she told Drevynn the truth that his father didn’t leave them but that the evil of the night in this town had taken him away. Drevynn knew his mother only wished to protect him from harm but he knew it would always haunt him that good fathers could be taken from loving families. Rhia also handed him a small box that he recognized as his father’s tobacco box and his father’s ivory pipe. It was a hand carved snuff box made of a Tien wood she said. Drevynn closed his eyes and could still recall his father sitting down after dinner smoking his ivory pipe and the box as it rested on the table beside him .It made him smile to think of his childhood, but alas he knew soon he would be alone as his mother and father both now would be gone. He made a pact as he watched her pass softly into the next life he would do something about the evil nights in Westcrown if able. Drevynn packed what gear and memories he had knowing the home was to be rented now to a younger couple. Drevynn hoped it would bring many more years of happiness to the young couple as it did him in his childhood.

Drevynn now plays at a few smaller local taverns. He makes a small sum, enough to keep him in tobacco and a roof over his head. He isn’t a celebrity yet but those who hear him play all say it is but a matter of time. Drevynn as of late has been given a room in the Darkstone Inn, where he plays each nights for tips. The owner a man named Cinvinci allows him to keep a room as long as he keeps bringing in customers.

Drevynn now spends his days wondering the streets of Westcrown searching for clues of what may be so dangerous in the night. He has of late been wondering by a local glass blower’s shop along his daily walk. He doesn’t dare go in but does stop to watch the young Tien woman work. Drevynn has even composed a song for her he plays in his performances, though she has no idea of course. Drevynn tries to be nonchalant about his watching but a few times he feels she has caught him and even once may have smiled. Perhaps that smile was for the customer anxiously waiting for her new bauble to be made. Either way Drevynn moves on before any words are exchanged content to just let his mind wonder rather than know for sure.

Drevynn sang the song he had wrote for the Tien woman in the tavern that evening. It was met with a loud applause. It seems his path was chosen correctly indeed he thought silently to himself as he gathered the tips from the nights performance. Drevynn stopped playing and went to table in the corner that is his usual table after a night's work. The barmaid Gretchen already was on her way with his favorite ale . Gretchen smiled and placed his drink in front of him " the song you sang , it was .. it was just so beautifully written . that girl of yours sure is lucky to have you " Drevynn nodded and gave her a silver piece for a tip . He spoke softly " Perhaps one day she will actually know of my thoughts but that day is not soon upon me for just seeing her makes my words fail me " Gretchen laughed softly " well you are not only handsome , a great poet and singer , but also unbelievably cute and shy . I'm sure she will come to see that for herself " Drevynn again smiled softly as he grabbed his drink and slowly took a long sip to cool his burning throat from his performance. Gretchen turned and took drinks to a nearby table as Drevynn was left in quiet contemplation. He took out his pipe and began to puff it as he mused of life and its meaning . How could I feel so strongly for a girl I've never even met ? What if she doesn't share my feelings ? What if like many others I've heard about since I began my investigation into the night and darkness of Westcrown she goes missing ? So many questions filled his mind that he had no answers for . Drevynn was snapped from his trance like state when Gretchen screamed . He stood and seen a group of strong looking men sitting around a table , one had pulled her into his lap . Gretchen struggled to free herself . Drevynn figured he could not take them all on, yet he had to do something . Drevynn stood and walked toward the table. He calmed his nerves by finishing his drink as he did so . The men seen him and one of them was about to say something when Drevynn just hit him in the head with the flagon his drink had been in . The man holding Gretchen rose throwing her from his lap and struck Drevynn soundly . Drevynn staggered back but readied himself . The other men now stood as well . Drevynn knew he would lose this fight but in the end as long as it was merely fists he figured he would survive . The men moved at Drevynn , he struck at one knocking him back against the table but the other two proved too much and soon Drevynn lie on the floor, covered in drinks. The men all laughed , kicking Drevynn one final time before they left . Drevynn staggered to his feet and moved back to his table . Gretchen came over immediately and gave him a damp cold cloth . He would wear the bruises and cuts from this foray for awhile he thought .
The next few days as Drevynn took his daily walk he didn't stop in front of the Tien glass-works , afraid or feeling somehow ashamed of his bruises and cuts . He took a night or two off from singing as well and instead started studying magic. He was after all gifted in magic . He just never felt a need to grow it He taught himself a few rudimentary spells he had seen other stage magicians use during his time working in the bars of Westcrown. It wasn't long however until his bruises and cuts healed. He then spent more hours performing during the evening to make some extra coins he could use to further bolster his growing fascination with magic . His walks did however begin again in earnest . The Tien woman was just as beautiful as he remembered yet he figured she deserved better so he didn't stop to watch over the next few days as he had done so many times before . His mind however took in every aspect of her hair , her eyes , each gown or dress she wore . Now each night as his performances end he goes to his table and drinks alone , smoking his pipe , his thoughts lost to his magic and of course the Tien girl whom he never met .

One morning Drevynn made a decision that life is too short to wonder of things and not pursue them . He could have been killed a few nights earlier trying to intercede with the men whom accosted Gretchen . He thought a lot since then and decided now is the time to live his life . He began in earnest listening for things of interests about the dark streets and things that happen . He was careful not to divulge too much of his personal nature as he knew or had heard many tales of the HellKnights coming for those who opposed the ruling house of Thrune . He didn't want to be seen as an usurper as much as a guy trying to figure out how to make the streets safer for the citizens of Westcrown. Drevynn did his morning walk as he had done many times before , only this day he stopped to get a single white orchid from the flower shop. He found the boy called Jared in the street . Drevynn had used this boy before for errands and knew he was trustworthy in more ways than one. Drevynn had a note he had written out beforehand but had never had the nerve to give to the Tien woman , but today that would all change he hoped . Drevynn gave the flower to the Jared with instructions to give it to the Tien woman around when the sun was at its peak in the sky . Jared nodded and took the silver piece from Drevynn with a smile .

Drevynn this day was careful about where he stood as he approached the glass blowing shop so that he could see into the shop yet with luck would remain hidden from the young Tien woman's view . He fidgeted nervously as he waited for the errand boy to deliver his note and the flower . The boy appeared and walked in to the shop waiting until the young woman was done with her task . He handed her the sealed note and flower . He could see the Tien woman look around and then ask the boy something to which the boy replied . Drevynn knew he had told him to simply say it was from someone whom admired her work and her smile , nothing more or less . The boy soon left and Drevynn watched with eagerness as the young woman began to open the note and read it . He could see her lips move as if reading it aloud and his mind focused on every word .

" You have such a lovely smile. I have seen it many times and yet each time I see it somehow it is like I've never seen it before . We have never formally met but I can't help but feel perhaps in a past life we have. I know many do not believe in fate or things of that nature but from the moment your smile entered my life I cant seem to get it out of my mind . I hope this note finds you well. I hope my words will fill your mind and heart, as your smile does mine, with a want and need to know more . The answer shall be yours alone to decide . If you wish to meet the one behind these words all you need to do on the morrow is put the flower into your hair as a sign and I shall call on you. If not simply put it in a vase and I shall know your heart and mind are not interested . I leave you with these words composed by my hand in thoughts of you "

She has dark hair, and emerald green eyes

a soft caring smile, that can light up your life

She moves with grace untold, as she goes through her day

breaking many untold hearts, I'm sure along the way .

I'm never usually at a loss, for just the right words

I've always been good at saying, what others want heard

but with you my voice, becomes that of an unheard whisper

lost upon the wind swirling, forever lost in life's chaotic twister

Like a book you wait to be opened, to be carefully read,

To be loved for who you are, for the beauty inside instead

I cannot offer more, than what my heart tells me it holds

I can however promise , to walk with you as our story unfolds

Drevynn watched as the Tien woman once more glanced around. Drevynn had been very careful to remain out of sight . Drevynn watched as she moved from the main room out of sight returning a few moments later smiling as she begin her work once more. Drevynn moved off knowing on the morrow he would have his answer one way or another . He strolled around the city he knew so well thinking to himself what a wonderful day to finally live and be alive .

I think I have created a unique way to get around the whole negative energy thing that is legal as far as I can tell but I thought I would ask here . There are 2 ways to accomplish this both of them using racial heritage feat and choosing dhamphir which allows you to count as a dhamphir for feats etc etc . You can take it as a human and then also take a feat call unusual origin which in turn gives you a bite attack . So in essence you can then take the blood drinker feat later and have the ability to drain con with a bite attack . it specifically states in drain blood that if used with a bite you can drink it in correlation with that bite attack so in my eyes it is no different than a thief using poison or a paladin using smite it is part of an attack and not overtly evil .
The second way is much more detailed but you can be an assimar , choose the forgotten bite racial trait giving you a bite attack and then also take scion of humanity making you count as human .. then as a feat take racial heritage dhamphir and again you have no negatives to healing or anything that makes the dhamphir hard to play yet have the cool stuff . Btw this makes for an awesome idea if you combine either with the bloodrager blood conduit archetype and take draconic as your bloodline because then you grow claws when you rage and have extra strength and con as well . take improved grapple as your first level bloodrager feat and you are well on your way to being truly more like a vampire than simply being a dhamphir could ever give you . This also later adds to your natural ac and as you level the bonus to strength/co increase . Take feats like raging brutality and power attack and you will have no need ever for weapons as you will have 2 claw attacks and a bite attack each round that count as magic for purposes of passing DR per the bloodline draconic . grapple your foe then slowly drain their con as you drink their blood as each round you successfully maintain the grapple you get a free bite attack .. feats with improved grapple greater grapple improved natural attack only fuels this even more .. you can become a killing machine especially useful against enemy casters . You can also take the trait final embrace and gain a +2 to pin an opponent.. just ideas to ponder ...
I posted this in this thread simply because to me this by passes eating their blood after you kill them and is no more inherently evil that using poison or other enhancements on your weapons to slay an enemy. you just happen to gain small benefits from it and it is accomplished as you attack not like you are lying over a dead body eating from it ..

I am a bit confused on the role of spell casting in a Bloodrager with the blood conduit archetype. The archetype description says:

"Blood conduits learn to channel their arcane might directly through their flesh, without the need for mystical words or gestures."

And at level 5 they get the Spell Conduit Ability:

"At 5th level, as long as a blood conduit is wearing light or no armor, he can deliver bloodrager spells with a range of touch through bodily contact. When he succeeds at a combat maneuver check to bull rush, grapple, pin, reposition, or trip an opponent, or makes an unarmed strike against an enemy, he can as a swift action cast a touch spell on the creature that he affected with the combat maneuver, requiring no further touch attack roll. If this spell would usually require a successful touch attack, his successful combat maneuver check counts as this attack."

This description in the rules says nothing about not having to use somatic or verbal components to the spell. The description of the archetype hints at this however. What are the rules on this? If I make an unarmed attack do I have to use somatic and verbal components? What about concentration checks? Last, if I am playing an arcane bloodline and I am beast shaped can I transfer spells through bodily contact if I don't need those components?

bloodragers get eshew components just as sorcerers so their is not material component .. hope that helps ..

Just6 wanted to see if anyone had any cool arcane caster ideas for Half-orcs besides blasty sorcerer . I'd love to be more necromantic actually but have found very little useful info into building one .

Hi everyone , I would like some ideas or help in building a drow caster for an upcoming module our small group plans to run . I dont have a preference really as to arcane o divine but want the char to be more to the point of actual damage than a buffer or enchanter type . I am using the base drow template from the race guide .We are using the std 20 pt buy as well . I have also been told I may take the drow feats that add to my drow heritage and would one day allow me to be a drow noble .. Any ideas for oracles or divine based dmg caster are the best though I do like the thought of being strictly arcane as well due to the drow background and innate magics. thanks for an advice and help ..

This is a thread I will update as we play through the module Jade Regent. I am posting it in hopes other will see it and use some of the content we use or perhaps RP the module as it really makes it more fun to us.

Jade Regent

This is our groups story of the Jade Regent. It will have spoilers for those whom haven’t played so read at your own risk. I am sharing this to show the RP involved in our group in hope’s that is sparks such in others .These are our characters, players, and a brief summary of each from their back-story . The back-story of each was far more involved and I have only highlighted a little from each .

Gm- Dan – he adds a lot of flavor to things I will do my best to portray in what I write and recall from our game night

Arik –Jeff - lvl 1 Paladin Purifier Archetype of Shelyn. Arik is of Ulfin decent and his father Jarakai traded goods from his home in the Lands of the Linnorn Kings in Magnimar every summer. His father traded with Lonjiku Kijitsu whom is Ameiko’s father. They had a long standing friendship. Arik and Ameiko played as children and into teenage years. A strong bond formed between them easily seen by their fathers as love. This, however, was severed by events of Arik’s tribe getting slain by a rival one. Arik was sold into slavery and taught how to fight. He spent a year in the pits as a gladiator of sorts then was bought by a noble and used as a caravan guard. Upon that nobles death he was freed for his years of loyal service. Arik then hired on as a caravan guard and traveled back to Magnimar in search of Ameiko. He found their estate in tatters and ruin. Many spoke of the family’s tragic demise. He did hear a rumor however the daughter Ameiko had survived and now ran an inn in Sandpoint. He left that night to find her.

Gol -Gol –Gabe - lvl 1 Barbarian Rager Lizardman. Gol -Gol was hatched on a small island out in the seas off the coast near the lands of the Linnorn. He was captured soon after hatching from his egg by men. Gol -Gol was then taken south when he had grown enough to be sold as a slave in Cheliax. The voyage was difficult and the ship was lost near the coast. Gol -Gol was it’s only survivor having swim to shore. Gol- Gol lied upon the beach exhausted for a time. He awoke to the sounds of metal clanking together. When he awoke he seen green skinned thieves gathering items of his people from the wreckage. He couldn’t let this happen and grabbed a stone throwing it crushing one of them. He then let the spirits of his ancestors fill his soul (this is what he says when he rages btw) as he fought them off. The battle went on for a brief time until all of them laid at his feet dead or dying. He however had taken some injury as well and fell near them to his knees. He heard another noise from the north and as he turned to look seen a blurry outline of a wagon. Then all went black. He awoke in a wagon tended to by an old Varisian woman. She had dressed his wounds and spoke to him. My name is Koya, you are safe, and we are almost back to Sandpoint.

Podge Puddlepuck – Randy – lvl 1 wizard Halfling. Podge has lived in Sandpoint all his life. He is a wizards apprentice to Vorvashali Voon. Podge has big plans to travel all of Varisia selling potions and scrolls. He is an aspiring wizard whom has more guile and courage than many gives him credit for.

Marina –Bill - lvl 1 Scout – Tien and Ulfen decent human. Marina spent most of her life growing up in Kalsgard. It is in the Land of Linnorn Kings. She spent most of her life learning how to track and survive in the harsh lands to the north. She hired on as a caravan scout heading to Sandpoint. It was lead by Sandru. The caravan made many stops along the way. Its stop near the Brinwall castle led them to pack up and move from the uneasy feeling they had even a mile from it. The caravan encountered little problems along the way with only a few skirmishes which allowed marina to show her zeal in battle. Upon reaching Sandpoint she was told the best place for a hot meal and soft bed was the Rusty Dragon Inn.

Lead in for the Party – (this all happened with players rping)
Prelude that we all got to hear describing the scene once we are inside the Rusty Dragon Inn. The Inn is filled with almost everyone from the town it seems. The smell that greets you as you enter the large wooden doors makes you hungry and happy. The fire in the northern fireplace is lit and hot and you can see a very large pot steaming over it. The barmaids are bustling around handing out drinks and food as you stand in the doorway. You notice along the wall a few musical instruments and some fine artwork. This place is very uniquely filled. The guests are all adult as you look around and seem to be very happy. The noise is loud and it is hard to hear much other than garble as it seems to all mix together. You do notice a long legged blonde woman serving drinks that is very lovely and seems to enjoy her job. You scan the room to see a group of adventurers in one corner at a table discussing things it would seem and enjoying a warm meal. You see a young Tian looking woman scurrying about seating people and taking orders. She has a tattoo of a snake on her arm and her dark hair is down and has a white streak in the front. There are Halflings, Elves, and Humans here mostly. You think there may not be a table to sit or a seat available as you scan the room.

Gol -Gol had spent a few days in the care of Koya. She came to him one day and said that tonight he was to go to the Rusty Dragon. it would be good for him to get out and about . She herself was feeling the urge to travel once more as well. Gol- Gol unsure of himself walked to the inn. He took special care to avoid most places that still had many people milling about for fear of how they may react. He did meet a fisherman near the docks however that told him of the goblins and how they were becoming a nuisance. Gol -Gol finally made it to the tavern and entered. The place as usual was packed with townsfolk drinking and eating. The normal raucous crowd fell silent when he entered. Ameiko walked up to him and said “you must be Gol Gol “Koya said you would be visiting tonight.” She then led him to a corner table and said “we have stew today, one with meat and one without. I’m guessing here but you seem like a meat sort of fellow. “Gol -Gol simply nodded still sort of lost. Ameiko left him alone at the table and went on taking care of other patrons. Soon however his stew arrived brought to him by a different girl named Brilanna. She set the stew down and Gol -Gol said thanks she-man not bothering with names. He pulled the large bowl closely guarding it like it was his last meal.

Arik had arrived at the gates of Sandpoint. He entered eager to meet and see Ameiko once more but filled with questions. Would she remember him? Was she now taken? Is she the same girl he had known many moons ago. Along his walk after entering the gates a towns guard named Smitty stopped him asking “where are you headed friend? “ Arik said to see an old friend at the inn . Smitty nodded “ it is a great place and most folks meet there this time of the night so have fun “ Smitty nudged him a little saying “ they have the cutest barmaids anywhere in Varisia and if you are lucky Ameiko will play a tune for ya “ . Arik thanked the man and headed into the inn. He stopped inside the doorway and peered around. It seemed the place was at capacity. He seen a table with a few townsfolk at it and gruffed as he passed them for it was closest to the fire and door a very worthy area to sit. Arik finally settled at the far end of the bar . Arik seen Ameiko yet remained silent and only watched as she took orders and laughed with people. Ameiko finally came over and stopped in front of him. She looked at him half heartedly and asked “So what would you …… “Her eyes grew big as she looked at this huge man. Ameiko then stammered “Arik …..Arik …. Is that you? “Arik pulled back his hooded cloak and stood. “Yes Ameiko, It is Arik “Ameiko hugged him close and in shock he folded his large arms around her. He couldn’t help but feel the same emotions he had felt as a child growing up when she was close. Ameiko broke the hug “you must eat and drink, come this barstool is no place for you “grabbing his hand leading him to the corner. Gol- Gol noticed the small she-man bringing over another . Gol-Gol stood reflexively a hand going to his weapon. Ameiko quickly said “Gol Gol this is a dear friend of mine Arik. Arik this is Gol Gol “Arik nodded and moved around the table to the far side settling in. Gol- Gol seated himself once more as well and took his meal guarding it now fiercer. “This is mine he-man, all mine as he gave Arik a toothy grunt “Arik only nodded and said I only wish ale. Ameiko said one would be brought right over.” Ameiko looked over to Brilanna whom stood nearby semi staring at Arik .Ameiko asked her to bring Arik ale. Brilanna nodded and headed to fetch the ale. Ameiko then left the two men to talk because there was much work to do. Arik and Gol -Gol sat in silence for a few moments till Arik asked how he came to be in Sandpoint. Gol -Gol said I walked then came by wagon. The two then grew silent again. Brilanna returned with the ale as the two stood to greet her. She set the drink down on the table. Gol- Gol returned to his seat and began eating in earnest once more. Arik nodded to the barmaid and whispered “thank you lass this shall surely hit the spot “Arik then sat down grabbing the tankard as Brilanna stood near, Ameiko glancing over seen how she looked at Arik. Arik turned his attention to Gol -Gol as Brilanna leaned to whisper in his ear softly “ if there is anything , anything I can do to make your stay more enjoyable do not hesitate to let me know Arik . Gol- Gol and Arik watched as she left then began on discussing Gol -Gol’s array of weapons.

About that time the Halfling Podge entered the inn. The townsfolk knowing him so well all shouted Podge as he entered. You see it was Podge’s birthday. Ameiko met Podge between table and led the Halfling to the table in the corner. Arik stood as she approached out of respect as he was taught, Gol -Gol on the other hand stood once more with his hand on his weapon . Ameiko looked at them both and said “this is my friend Podge, he is to join you for supper as this table will be for those with free meals. “ Podge looked a little unsure at seeing the large Lizardman and an even larger Ulfin. He thanked Ameiko none the less and sat on his stool. Arik and Gol -Gol returned to sitting down. Gol- Gol returned to finish his stew again guarding it. Arik asked Podge about Sandpoint and how long he had been here. Arik asked Podge about how well he knew Ameiko and her family. Podge answered all his questions yet kept a safe distance from Gol- Gol. Podge then asked Gol -Gol where he came from and tried to make light conversation. This seemed to put Gol -Gol more at ease. Podge told Gol -Gol that he was a wizard’s apprentice. Gol -Gol asked him of courage and Podge said Halflings wasn’t really known for it though some had it of course. Gol -Gol said fine manling again never using anyone’s name. Podge ordered wine from Brilanna. He even ordered some for Arik and Gol -Gol as it was a custom among his people on their birthdays to give things to others. Podge noticed Brilanna staring at Arik a moment .She then left returning with the drinks a few moments later. Arik dipped a finger into it and smelled it, Gol -Gol used his forked tongue to taste it before beginning to drink it fully. Arik pushed his towards Gol- Gol and said “I’ll stick to ale thanks” Podge shrugged his tiny shoulders and said cheers as they all drank. Gol -Gol took the second glass of wine saying “I have more you have less mine “. Arik wasn’t sure its meaning nor was Podge but they laughed and soon a friendship had begun.

The doors of the tavern opened up once more as a female clothed in leathers walked in. Ameiko made her welcome and seeing this place full lead her over to the corner table as well. She asked the girls name to which she replied Marina. Gol -Gol, Arik, and Podge had all stood as they moved towards them. Podge said “nice to meet you Marina and introduced himself. Arik merely nodded. Gol -Gol sniffed the air and sat down drinking his wine. They all talked for a few hours getting to know each other. Marina told them how she traveled down from the north with a caravan. That she was from Kalsgard. Arik nodded telling her he was from those lands as well as a child but that his tribe had been slain and he had been captured and sold into slavery. Gol -Gol upon hearing this also said of his captures and his struggles. They all seemed to warm up to each other. The drink flowed and people laughed and a good time was had. Podge even convinced Ameiko to play and sing because it was his birthday. Her voice was soft and seemed to just make you want to stop and listen. Gol -Gol even sat entranced like . Arik with each word felt the pangs from his childhood resurface, yet he knew nothing of her life now or if she was even still single.
Hours later the Sherriff came in and posted a new flyer upon the help wanted board in the Inn. Podge being the inquisitive soul he is ran over and took it down bringing it back to the table. The parchment read “ bounty given for anyone killing goblins , 10 gold per goblin ear , Gutwads head 300 gold “ The sheriff followed him over to the table and said “ Podge give me that , that’s for real adventurers “ Podge barked back but we are real adventurers , see , meet my new friends his arms opening up pointing to Gol- Gol , Marina , Arik in turn . The Sheriff looked them over and scratched his beard a little saying they do look like they could handle themselves, but still Podge, they haven’t taken the job. He pulled the sign from Podge taking it back over and hanging it back up. Arik stood and walked over to the board now pulling it back down. Arik looked down at the sheriff saying “10 gold for each goblin ear, 300 for leaders
head. Done “as he drove his dagger into the picture of the goblin leader. The sheriff backed up a bit and said sure …sure …, just bring the head and ears back to me when it’s done . The sheriff then walked from the bar. Arik took the banner over laying it on the table. “Tomorrow we hunt goblins and make money “. Gol -Gol agreed as did Marina though she was a little more disinterested than the others .
They all agreed to meet in the early morning near the marketplace area and leave from there. Gol -Gol finished his drink and headed back to Koya’s. Podge hugged each barmaid then as well headed back to his place in the feathered serpent. Marina paid for a room and went to sleep. Arik rose to ask about a room. Brilanna started to speak and offer to take him to his room but Ameiko grabbed his arm. Arik was shown to his room by Ameiko .She hugged him close. Ameiko asked “what brought you to Sandpoint? “ Arik answered with a mere word “you “The two stood hugging for a few more moments until Ameiko once more broke it hastily saying “well it’s time for me to go to my estate here in Sandpoint . If you need of anything Arik please have the staff tell me or get me “Arik simply nodded and leaned close to smell her scent before he closed the door staring deeply into her eyes one last time. Arik began to paint as he does when his feelings are on his mind. An hour or so later he placed the aisle on the corner and went to sleep knowing that at the dawn they would go into the swamps in search of goblins.

Let the Party begin – (the party’s first day together)

The sun had barely risen, Arik was first to enter the area of the marketplace. Gol -Gol and Marina arrived from different directions but merely at the same time. Podge was still conversing with his elder about adventuring. The old wizard saying “Podge come lets go out and tour Varisia and bring our magic to the cities. There is no need to go adventure. I mean why risk it we can make more than enough to live happily and eat well.” Podge said “I don’t know why I feel this way but it is something I have to do. I don’t know if it has to do with my parents being killed by goblins or what but I do know it’s what I have to do. “The old wizard nodded giving him a few scrolls. “You may have use of these and by all that is arcane be safe. “Podge rushed to meet his new friends just as they were about to give up on him and go ahead without him. Podge almost out of breath said “sorry I’m late but I had scrolls to prepare and the fruit at breakfast was just so good. “ The others chuckled a little welcoming him as they walked out the city gates towards the swamp .Gol Gol asked him if he had bought anything for the rest of us. They walked for a couple hours passing time talking about nothing. Arik did however find the time to ask Podge how well he knew Ameiko and if she was seeing anyone. Podge thought for a few moments then said” no... No she sort of keeps to herself in that manner and turns away any offers of affection from what I’ve seen. Podge could however sense how Arik felt about her, yet said nothing. Soon they entered the swamp and Marina with her skill at tracking led the way. The party traveled down a worn path passing over some small log like bridges. They seen frogs of all sorts and some were even a pale white. Gol -Gol said that we should capture a few of the white ones to see why the goblins like them so much. The others paid little mind to Gol- Gol as licking frogs didn’t seem very fun. There weren’t many other sounds besides the frogs however. Marina stopped to gather her way so as not to lose the trail. They then set off once more and came upon a structure on an island in the swamp. (( Gm description as follows – you come out of a thick grove and trees and see a small island surrounded it seems by water as the tide is high . The rustic old shack has seen better days but looks very livable. There is smoke coming from the small stone chimney. The plants out front are neatly kept as id the stone work marking the path to the shack. There aren’t any obvious goblin tracks or human tracks for that matter in the mud near the marsh. )) Podge crept forward showing his bravery and peeked inside the door. They had been told of a Halfling that lived here named Waldrous. He could tell them more of where the goblins may live. Podge’s calls were not returned so he called the others forward. Podge noticed broken pottery and plants strewn about inside as well as a few broken pieces of furniture. Podge felt it odd as most Halfling’s would never leave such a mess in case company drops by. Arik then took the lead stepping into the hut. A voice called out “just a minute just a minute. “ Podge called out “Waldrous?” The voice answered “yes I’m coming “and out of a back room limped a Halfling. Gol- Gol was still at the door and was guarding it in case someone tried to attack from outside. Arik noticing the limp said “Are you hurt Waldrous, I am skilled at healing perhaps I can take a look at those wounds “Waldrous was evasive in his answers alluding to falling on the stairs. Podge became a little concerned and talked him into letting his new friend Arik look at them. Arik asked Podge if all Halfling’s were so elusive in their ways and answers. Podge said no it was strange to him. Arik stepped forward and as he did used his divine power granted by Shelyn to detect evil. Waldrous detected as evil which gave Arik pause yet he still stepped forward looking at the wounds. They were snake bites. Arik asked where they came from. Waldrous said” from outside as he gathered herbs, h was attacked by some vipers. “Podge questioned him” what about the broken plants and mess of furniture , this is no way for a Halfling to live . “Waldrous stated “he was clumsy when he moved them”. Arik finally asked Podge if Halflings are evil. Podge scoffed at the notion as no Halfling he had ever met was evil. Waldrous hearing the conversation as Arik isn’t too much on the stealth side, immediately struck out at Arik surprising the paladin. He strike was true and did great harm almost dropping the big man. He grabbed Arik as his body transformed into a faceless shifter. Podge yelled for help as he looked on. Marina readied her spear. Gol- Gol drew his reach weapon and moved in. Arik almost unconscious went first and used his divine power to heal himself yelling aloud as his hand gripped his holy symbol " Shelyn ohh goddess of all that is serene ,strike down any evil that dare harm me and let me feel your gracious healing flow within my very soul " . (Righteous retribution from the Purifier Archetype is awesome btw) . His prayers were heard as he felt her healing. The stalker went next as it tried to keep Arik grappled. It did but soon let go from taking a serious jolt of divine energy from Arik. Arik was again almost down to his knees. Marina went next as she charged forward her spear striking home harming the stalker. Podge moved and cast a spell as scintillating colors came from his hand yet had no effect on the stalker. Gol- Gol charged now and struck a killing blow to it. The fight ended and Arik healed himself once more then bandaged his wounds best he could, knowing he had very few heals he could use in a day saving them as he could. Podge began searching the structure and soon found the real Waldrous. Waldrous told of the fight with the stalker and how his pet vipers protected him so he could hide. He gladly made a map for the party to follow but as it was getting dark he invited them to stay. They all agreed as the paladin Arik used the last of his healing magic to heal Waldrous and himself. Marina went out stalking toads and caught eight. Gol -Gol then surprisingly decided to find out why the goblins licked the toads and before Podge or anyone could stop him licked a white one. Gol -Gol then looked at Podge and drew his weapon yelling “it’s a goblin quick kill it so we can get its ears “Podge looked around quickly then seen Gol -Gol was looking at him so he ran off as Gol -Gol began to chase him. Arik still wounded somewhat tackled the Lizardman yelling “Gol -Gol it is Podge stop!!!”But Arik was soon thrown off. Marina tried to stop him as well grabbing an ankle screaming “stop Gol- Gol stop “but Gol- Gol pulled free. Podge ran outside into the swamp and Arik tried to grab Gol -Gol again but missed. Gol -Gol closed in on Podge. Podge turned and casted a spell at him knowing if it didn’t work that Gol -Gol was about to kill him. Arik and Marina were giving chase as well. Podge’s spell worked and soon Gol- Gol lay passed out on the ground. They waited as he came too seeing if he was still under the effects of the toad. Gol- Gol seen his group and asked if they got the goblin. Arik, Marina and Podge all tried to explain that it was Podge he chased but Gol -Gol would not hear of it adamant that he seen a goblin. Marina as they others talked quietly stepped outside and let loose the remaining frogs. The party then camped in the confines of the hut for the night knowing it is better to track goblins in the day than at night. They each took a turn guarding the group.

The next morning the group left again lead by Marina. She had the scribbled map that Waldrous gave the group showing how to get to the goblin village. The group travels for an hour or two in the swamp carefully moving and listening in case of ambush. They come upon a slatted make shift wall that has seen better days. Some of the planks are missing allowing you to see inside the village. (((Gm description – you crest a small hill and come upon what looks like the remains of a small fort or encampment. There is a wall that looks as though it surrounds the area made of flat boards standing on end at least 7 feet tall. There is however some places where nature has reclaimed the boards causing cracks or openings here and there but none large enough for Arik or Gol- Gol to fit through. There aren’t any sounds coming from the encampment at all nor any signs of smoke or fire. )) Podge again sneaks forward first and looks inside. He comes back to tell the party “I didn’t see any goblins but there are a few huts in there. I bet they are sleeping as they like to be up at night. “Arik nods and the group moves forward this time with the paladin of Shelyn leading the way. He uses his strength to break open a larger hole in the far wall and they group slips in. Podge again whispers “let me go and set a diversion and scout ahead, you guys wait here “. The group stays put as the tiny Halfling moves out alone. Podge sees a pit with charred remains in it
. He goes to the largest hut as Arik, Gol- Gol, Marina watch. Podge then casts burning hands on it setting it on fire. Arik clanks his sword to his shield letting out a Viking war cry and moves the group forward figuring their jig is up. The goblins come scurrying out of the huts. A few goblins are carrying some strange type of weapon. One goblin sits his on the ground as another runs up to it and lays a torch to the other end. The group is moving to intercept when the first boom goes off sending bright sparkling fireworks into the sky. The goblins all seem to stop and stare as the party now moves in to attack. A goblin that has a smaller version of the same thing lights his aiming it at Marina. It barely grazes her as the fight ensues. Marina strikes at the goblin with her long spear. Missing. Podge charges it from behind trying to stab it with a tiny dagger doing a tiny bit of damage to it. Arik and Gol -Gol have moved in seeming tandem and now each face 3 goblins each. Gol -Gol swings his mighty weapon down killing one
instantly. The goblin drops with part of its torso severed. Arik attacks and narrowly misses one as it ducks out of the way. The goblins the return attacks missing Gol -Gol completely but tearing into Arik ((odd they both have the same ac but Arik was getting lit up)) . Marina attacks again and hurts the goblin but on its return attack the firework in its hand goes off hitting Marina squarely dropping her into unconsciousness. Podge cast a spell and hits the goblin with a tiny missile from his fingers. The goblin drops dead near Marina. Gol -Gol swings again ripping another goblin to shreds his ancestral anger now taking hold of him (he rages) . Arik swings and connects this time severing a head from one of the goblins. The remaining goblins press the attack. A goblin misses Gol -Gol yet the other strikes Arik again almost making the man drop. The hut Podge had set ablaze is now on fire. The hut door is broken down as Chief Gutwad rides out on his goblin dog. Gol- Gol moves and kills the last he was fighting. Arik uses his divine power to heal himself again whispering a prayer “Shelyn, goddess of all that is beautiful and right hear my plea and heal me giving me protection from those who shall mean me harm.” The goblin attacks at Arik hitting him but it was a grazing blow (1htpt) but in doing so he falls dead to the fury of the goddess protecting Arik. Chief Gutwad rides forward charging Arik but misses. Podge maneuvers closer and cast a spell upon the chief and two goblins at his side. Gol -Gol moves and throws a weapon hitting the chief hard. Arik again uses his action to ask his goddess for healing. The chief again swings at Arik missing and a goblin strikes him causing a wound yet again dies to the wrath of his goddess. Gol -Gol charges the chief and strikes him down. The remaining goblin flees as the party shouts victoriously. Arik sees the fallen Marina and rushes to her. They all then hear cracking and popping from the hut that was set afire. It reminds Podge of the blasts from the goblins fireworks so they all take cover in the charred pit. Arik tosses Marina over his shoulder jumping down into the pit using the last of his heals this day to heal her. Gol -Gol cuts the heart of Chief Gutwad out and lops off his head then hops in the pit. The party watches in sort of horror as Gol -Gol says “the strength of my enemy is now mine I claim it as my ancestors before “Gol- Gol begins to devour the chiefs still warm bloody heart. The party almost all lose their breakfast at this. The hut on fire stops making noise as it calms they party climbs from the pit. They lop off both ears from each goblin they have killed as Arik states “it is 10 gold an ear not for each goblin so we will take both ears back for gold. ((Wow a lg paladin who uses the lawfulness for good measure, who would have thought it possible)) . The party searches the village and finds some items and gold. They also notice a set of tracks that seem to be of something heavy dragged over the soft earth. They decide to rest for the night since Arik is out of heals and Podge is also out of spells, and then follow the tracks in the morning. They take refuge in one of the huts thinking it safe and post watches.

Here I will write about our parties jade Regent game and the RP it entails . My hope is it will spark others to really RP this module and make is fun .

First Game Night

Jade Regent

This is our groups story of the Jade Regent. It will have spoilers for those whom haven’t played so read at your own risk. I am sharing this to show the RP involved in our group in hope’s that is sparks such in others .These are our characters, players, and a brief summary of each from their back-story . The back-story of each was far more involved and I have only highlighted a little from each .

Gm- Dan – he adds a lot of flavor to things I will do my best to portray in what I write and recall from our game night

Arik –Jeff - lvl 1 Paladin Purifier Archetype of Shelyn. Arik is of Ulfin decent and his father Jarakai traded goods from his home in the Lands of the Linnorn Kings in Magnimar every summer. His father traded with Lonjiku Kijitsu whom is Ameiko’s father. They had a long standing friendship. Arik and Ameiko played as children and into teenage years. A strong bond formed between them easily seen by their fathers as love. This, however, was severed by events of Arik’s tribe getting slain by a rival one. Arik was sold into slavery and taught how to fight. He spent a year in the pits as a gladiator of sorts then was bought by a noble and used as a caravan guard. Upon that nobles death he was freed for his years of loyal service. Arik then hired on as a caravan guard and traveled back to Magnimar in search of Ameiko. He found their estate in tatters and ruin. Many spoke of the family’s tragic demise. He did hear a rumor however the daughter Ameiko had survived and now ran an inn in Sandpoint. He left that night to find her.

Gol -Gol –Gabe - lvl 1 Barbarian Rager Lizardman. Gol -Gol was hatched on a small island out in the seas off the coast near the lands of the Linnorn. He was captured soon after hatching from his egg by men. Gol -Gol was then taken south when he had grown enough to be sold as a slave in Cheliax. The voyage was difficult and the ship was lost near the coast. Gol -Gol was it’s only survivor having swim to shore. Gol- Gol lied upon the beach exhausted for a time. He awoke to the sounds of metal clanking together. When he awoke he seen green skinned thieves gathering items of his people from the wreckage. He couldn’t let this happen and grabbed a stone throwing it crushing one of them. He then let the spirits of his ancestors fill his soul (this is what he says when he rages btw) as he fought them off. The battle went on for a brief time until all of them laid at his feet dead or dying. He however had taken some injury as well and fell near them to his knees. He heard another noise from the north and as he turned to look seen a blurry outline of a wagon. Then all went black. He awoke in a wagon tended to by an old Varisian woman. She had dressed his wounds and spoke to him. My name is Koya, you are safe, and we are almost back to Sandpoint.

Podge Puddlepuck – Randy – lvl 1 wizard Halfling. Podge has lived in Sandpoint all his life. He is a wizards apprentice to Vorvashali Voon. Podge has big plans to travel all of Varisia selling potions and scrolls. He is an aspiring wizard whom has more guile and courage than many gives him credit for.

Marina –Bill - lvl 1 Scout – Tien and Ulfen decent human. Marina spent most of her life growing up in Kalsgard. It is in the Land of Linnorn Kings. She spent most of her life learning how to track and survive in the harsh lands to the north. She hired on as a caravan scout heading to Sandpoint. It was lead by Sandru. The caravan made many stops along the way. Its stop near the Brinwall castle led them to pack up and move from the uneasy feeling they had even a mile from it. The caravan encountered little problems along the way with only a few skirmishes which allowed marina to show her zeal in battle. Upon reaching Sandpoint she was told the best place for a hot meal and soft bed was the Rusty Dragon Inn.

Lead in for the Party – (this all happened with players rping)

Prelude that we all got to hear describing the scene once we are inside the Rusty Dragon Inn. The Inn is filled with almost everyone from the town it seems. The smell that greets you as you enter the large wooden doors makes you hungry and happy. The fire in the northern fireplace is lit and hot and you can see a very large pot steaming over it. The barmaids are bustling around handing out drinks and food as you stand in the doorway. You notice along the wall a few musical instruments and some fine artwork. This place is very uniquely filled. The guests are all adult as you look around and seem to be very happy. The noise is loud and it is hard to hear much other than garble as it seems to all mix together. You do notice a long legged blonde woman serving drinks that is very lovely and seems to enjoy her job. You scan the room to see a group of adventurers in one corner at a table discussing things it would seem and enjoying a warm meal. You see a young Tian looking woman scurrying about seating people and taking orders. She has a tattoo of a snake on her arm and her dark hair is down and has a white streak in the front. There are Halflings, Elves, and Humans here mostly. You think there may not be a table to sit or a seat available as you scan the room.

Gol -Gol had spent a few days in the care of Koya. She came to him one day and said that tonight he was to go to the Rusty Dragon. it would be good for him to get out and about . She herself was feeling the urge to travel once more as well. Gol- Gol unsure of himself walked to the inn. He took special care to avoid most places that still had many people milling about for fear of how they may react. He did meet a fisherman near the docks however that told him of the goblins and how they were becoming a nuisance. Gol -Gol finally made it to the tavern and entered. The place as usual was packed with townsfolk drinking and eating. The normal raucous crowd fell silent when he entered. Ameiko walked up to him and said “you must be Gol Gol “Koya said you would be visiting tonight.” She then led him to a corner table and said “we have stew today, one with meat and one without. I’m guessing here but you seem like a meat sort of fellow. “Gol -Gol simply nodded still sort of lost. Ameiko left him alone at the table and went on taking care of other patrons. Soon however his stew arrived brought to him by a different girl named Brilanna. She set the stew down and Gol -Gol said thanks she-man not bothering with names. He pulled the large bowl closely guarding it like it was his last meal.

Arik had arrived at the gates of Sandpoint. He entered eager to meet and see Ameiko once more but filled with questions. Would she remember him? Was she now taken? Is she the same girl he had known many moons ago. Along his walk after entering the gates a towns guard named Smitty stopped him asking “where are you headed friend? “ Arik said to see an old friend at the inn . Smitty nodded “ it is a great place and most folks meet there this time of the night so have fun “ Smitty nudged him a little saying “ they have the cutest barmaids anywhere in Varisia and if you are lucky Ameiko will play a tune for ya “ . Arik thanked the man and headed into the inn. He stopped inside the doorway and peered around. It seemed the place was at capacity. He seen a table with a few townsfolk at it and gruffed as he passed them for it was closest to the fire and door a very worthy area to sit. Arik finally settled at the far end of the bar . Arik seen Ameiko yet remained silent and only watched as she took orders and laughed with people. Ameiko finally came over and stopped in front of him. She looked at him half heartedly and asked “So what would you …… “Her eyes grew big as she looked at this huge man. Ameiko then stammered “Arik …..Arik …. Is that you? “Arik pulled back his hooded cloak and stood. “Yes Ameiko, It is Arik “Ameiko hugged him close and in shock he folded his large arms around her. He couldn’t help but feel the same emotions he had felt as a child growing up when she was close. Ameiko broke the hug “you must eat and drink, come this barstool is no place for you “grabbing his hand leading him to the corner. Gol- Gol noticed the small she-man bringing over another . Gol-Gol stood reflexively a hand going to his weapon. Ameiko quickly said “Gol Gol this is a dear friend of mine Arik. Arik this is Gol Gol “Arik nodded and moved around the table to the far side settling in. Gol- Gol seated himself once more as well and took his meal guarding it now fiercer. “This is mine he-man, all mine as he gave Arik a toothy grunt “Arik only nodded and said I only wish ale. Ameiko said one would be brought right over.” Ameiko looked over to Brilanna whom stood nearby semi staring at Arik .Ameiko asked her to bring Arik ale. Brilanna nodded and headed to fetch the ale. Ameiko then left the two men to talk because there was much work to do. Arik and Gol -Gol sat in silence for a few moments till Arik asked how he came to be in Sandpoint. Gol -Gol said I walked then came by wagon. The two then grew silent again. Brilanna returned with the ale as the two stood to greet her. She set the drink down on the table. Gol- Gol returned to his seat and began eating in earnest once more. Arik nodded to the barmaid and whispered “thank you lass this shall surely hit the spot “Arik then sat down grabbing the tankard as Brilanna stood near, Ameiko glancing over seen how she looked at Arik. Arik turned his attention to Gol -Gol as Brilanna leaned to whisper in his ear softly “ if there is anything , anything I can do to make your stay more enjoyable do not hesitate to let me know Arik . Gol- Gol and Arik watched as she left then began on discussing Gol -Gol’s array of weapons.

About that time the Halfling Podge entered the inn. The townsfolk knowing him so well all shouted Podge as he entered. You see it was Podge’s birthday. Ameiko met Podge between table and led the Halfling to the table in the corner. Arik stood as she approached out of respect as he was taught, Gol -Gol on the other hand stood once more with his hand on his weapon . Ameiko looked at them both and said “this is my friend Podge, he is to join you for supper as this table will be for those with free meals. “ Podge looked a little unsure at seeing the large Lizardman and an even larger Ulfin. He thanked Ameiko none the less and sat on his stool. Arik and Gol -Gol returned to sitting down. Gol- Gol returned to finish his stew again guarding it. Arik asked Podge about Sandpoint and how long he had been here. Arik asked Podge about how well he knew Ameiko and her family. Podge answered all his questions yet kept a safe distance from Gol- Gol. Podge then asked Gol -Gol where he came from and tried to make light conversation. This seemed to put Gol -Gol more at ease. Podge told Gol -Gol that he was a wizard’s apprentice. Gol -Gol asked him of courage and Podge said Halflings wasn’t really known for it though some had it of course. Gol -Gol said fine manling again never using anyone’s name. Podge ordered wine from Brilanna. He even ordered some for Arik and Gol -Gol as it was a custom among his people on their birthdays to give things to others. Podge noticed Brilanna staring at Arik a moment .She then left returning with the drinks a few moments later. Arik dipped a finger into it and smelled it, Gol -Gol used his forked tongue to taste it before beginning to drink it fully. Arik pushed his towards Gol- Gol and said “I’ll stick to ale thanks” Podge shrugged his tiny shoulders and said cheers as they all drank. Gol -Gol took the second glass of wine saying “I have more you have less mine “. Arik wasn’t sure its meaning nor was Podge but they laughed and soon a friendship had begun.

The doors of the tavern opened up once more as a female clothed in leathers walked in. Ameiko made her welcome and seeing this place full lead her over to the corner table as well. She asked the girls name to which she replied Marina. Gol -Gol, Arik, and Podge had all stood as they moved towards them. Podge said “nice to meet you Marina and introduced himself. Arik merely nodded. Gol -Gol sniffed the air and sat down drinking his wine. They all talked for a few hours getting to know each other. Marina told them how she traveled down from the north with a caravan. That she was from Kalsgard. Arik nodded telling her he was from those lands as well as a child but that his tribe had been slain and he had been captured and sold into slavery. Gol -Gol upon hearing this also said of his captures and his struggles. They all seemed to warm up to each other. The drink flowed and people laughed and a good time was had. Podge even convinced Ameiko to play and sing because it was his birthday. Her voice was soft and seemed to just make you want to stop and listen. Gol -Gol even sat entranced like . Arik with each word felt the pangs from his childhood resurface, yet he knew nothing of her life now or if she was even still single.

Hours later the Sherriff came in and posted a new flyer upon the help wanted board in the Inn. Podge being the inquisitive soul he is ran over and took it down bringing it back to the table. The parchment read “ bounty given for anyone killing goblins , 10 gold per goblin ear , Gutwads head 300 gold “ The sheriff followed him over to the table and said “ Podge give me that , that’s for real adventurers “ Podge barked back but we are real adventurers , see , meet my new friends his arms opening up pointing to Gol- Gol , Marina , Arik in turn . The Sheriff looked them over and scratched his beard a little saying they do look like they could handle themselves, but still Podge, they haven’t taken the job. He pulled the sign from Podge taking it back over and hanging it back up. Arik stood and walked over to the board now pulling it back down. Arik looked down at the sheriff saying “10 gold for each goblin ear, 300 for leaders head. Done “as he drove his dagger into the picture of the goblin leader. The sheriff backed up a bit and said sure …sure …, just bring the head and ears back to me when it’s done . The sheriff then walked from the bar. Arik took the banner over laying it on the table. “Tomorrow we hunt goblins and make money “. Gol -Gol agreed as did Marina though she was a little more disinterested than the others .
They all agreed to meet in the early morning near the marketplace area and leave from there. Gol -Gol finished his drink and headed back to Koya’s. Podge hugged each barmaid then as well headed back to his place in the feathered serpent. Marina paid for a room and went to sleep. Arik rose to ask about a room. Brilanna started to speak and offer to take him to his room but Ameiko grabbed his arm. Arik was shown to his room by Ameiko .She hugged him close. Ameiko asked “what brought you to Sandpoint? “ Arik answered with a mere word “you “The two stood hugging for a few more moments until Ameiko once more broke it hastily saying “well it’s time for me to go to my estate here in Sandpoint . If you need of anything Arik please have the staff tell me or get me “Arik simply nodded and leaned close to smell her scent before he closed the door staring deeply into her eyes one last time. Arik began to paint as he does when his feelings are on his mind. An hour or so later he placed the aisle on the corner and went to sleep knowing that at the dawn they would go into the swamps in search of goblins.

Let the Party begin – (the party’s first day together)

The sun had barely risen, Arik was first to enter the area of the marketplace. Gol -Gol and Marina arrived from different directions but merely at the same time. Podge was still conversing with his elder about adventuring. The old wizard saying “Podge come lets go out and tour Varisia and bring our magic to the cities. There is no need to go adventure. I mean why risk it we can make more than enough to live happily and eat well.” Podge said “I don’t know why I feel this way but it is something I have to do. I don’t know if it has to do with my parents being killed by goblins or what but I do know it’s what I have to do. “The old wizard nodded giving him a few scrolls. “You may have use of these and by all that is arcane be safe. “Podge rushed to meet his new friends just as they were about to give up on him and go ahead without him. Podge almost out of breath said “sorry I’m late but I had scrolls to prepare and the fruit at breakfast was just so good. “ The others chuckled a little welcoming him as they walked out the city gates towards the swamp .Gol Gol asked him if he had bought anything for the rest of us. They walked for a couple hours passing time talking about nothing. Arik did however find the time to ask Podge how well he knew Ameiko and if she was seeing anyone. Podge thought for a few moments then said” no... No she sort of keeps to herself in that manner and turns away any offers of affection from what I’ve seen. Podge could however sense how Arik felt about her, yet said nothing. Soon they entered the swamp and Marina with her skill at tracking led the way. The party traveled down a worn path passing over some small log like bridges. They seen frogs of all sorts and some were even a pale white. Gol -Gol said that we should capture a few of the white ones to see why the goblins like them so much. The others paid little mind to Gol- Gol as licking frogs didn’t seem very fun. There weren’t many other sounds besides the frogs however. Marina stopped to gather her way so as not to lose the trail. They then set off once more and came upon a structure on an island in the swamp. (( Gm description as follows – you come out of a thick grove and trees and see a small island surrounded it seems by water as the tide is high . The rustic old shack has seen better days but looks very livable. There is smoke coming from the small stone chimney. The plants out front are neatly kept as id the stone work marking the path to the shack. There aren’t any obvious goblin tracks or human tracks for that matter in the mud near the marsh. )) Podge crept forward showing his bravery and peeked inside the door. They had been told of a Halfling that lived here named Waldrous. He could tell them more of where the goblins may live. Podge’s calls were not returned so he called the others forward. Podge noticed broken pottery and plants strewn about inside as well as a few broken pieces of furniture. Podge felt it odd as most Halfling’s would never leave such a mess in case company drops by. Arik then took the lead stepping into the hut. A voice called out “just a minute just a minute. “ Podge called out “Waldrous?” The voice answered “yes I’m coming “and out of a back room limped a Halfling. Gol- Gol was still at the door and was guarding it in case someone tried to attack from outside. Arik noticing the limp said “Are you hurt Waldrous, I am skilled at healing perhaps I can take a look at those wounds “Waldrous was evasive in his answers alluding to falling on the stairs. Podge became a little concerned and talked him into letting his new friend Arik look at them. Arik asked Podge if all Halfling’s were so elusive in their ways and answers. Podge said no it was strange to him. Arik stepped forward and as he did used his divine power granted by Shelyn to detect evil. Waldrous detected as evil which gave Arik pause yet he still stepped forward looking at the wounds. They were snake bites. Arik asked where they came from. Waldrous said” from outside as he gathered herbs, h was attacked by some vipers. “Podge questioned him” what about the broken plants and mess of furniture , this is no way for a Halfling to live . “Waldrous stated “he was clumsy when he moved them”. Arik finally asked Podge if Halflings are evil. Podge scoffed at the notion as no Halfling he had ever met was evil. Waldrous hearing the conversation as Arik isn’t too much on the stealth side, immediately struck out at Arik surprising the paladin. He strike was true and did great harm almost dropping the big man. He grabbed Arik as his body transformed into a faceless shifter. Podge yelled for help as he looked on. Marina readied her spear. Gol- Gol drew his reach weapon and moved in. Arik almost unconscious went first and used his divine power to heal himself yelling aloud as his hand gripped his holy symbol " Shelyn ohh goddess of all that is serene ,strike down any evil that dare harm me and let me feel your gracious healing flow within my very soul " . (Righteous retribution from the Purifier Archetype is awesome btw) . His prayers were heard as he felt her healing. The stalker went next as it tried to keep Arik grappled. It did but soon let go from taking a serious jolt of divine energy from Arik. Arik was again almost down to his knees. Marina went next as she charged forward her spear striking home harming the stalker. Podge moved and cast a spell as scintillating colors came from his hand yet had no effect on the stalker. Gol- Gol charged now and struck a killing blow to it. The fight ended and Arik healed himself once more then bandaged his wounds best he could, knowing he had very few heals he could use in a day saving them as he could. Podge began searching the structure and soon found the real Waldrous. Waldrous told of the fight with the stalker and how his pet vipers protected him so he could hide. He gladly made a map for the party to follow but as it was getting dark he invited them to stay. They all agreed as the paladin Arik used the last of his healing magic to heal Waldrous and himself. Marina went out stalking toads and caught eight. Gol -Gol then surprisingly decided to find out why the goblins licked the toads and before Podge or anyone could stop him licked a white one. Gol -Gol then looked at Podge and drew his weapon yelling “it’s a goblin quick kill it so we can get its ears “Podge looked around quickly then seen Gol -Gol was looking at him so he ran off as Gol -Gol began to chase him. Arik still wounded somewhat tackled the Lizardman yelling “Gol -Gol it is Podge stop!!!”But Arik was soon thrown off. Marina tried to stop him as well grabbing an ankle screaming “stop Gol- Gol stop “but Gol- Gol pulled free. Podge ran outside into the swamp and Arik tried to grab Gol -Gol again but missed. Gol -Gol closed in on Podge. Podge turned and casted a spell at him knowing if it didn’t work that Gol -Gol was about to kill him. Arik and Marina were giving chase as well. Podge’s spell worked and soon Gol- Gol lay passed out on the ground. They waited as he came too seeing if he was still under the effects of the toad. Gol- Gol seen his group and asked if they got the goblin. Arik, Marina and Podge all tried to explain that it was Podge he chased but Gol -Gol would not hear of it adamant that he seen a goblin. Marina as they others talked quietly stepped outside and let loose the remaining frogs. The party then camped in the confines of the hut for the night knowing it is better to track goblins in the day than at night. They each took a turn guarding the group.

The next morning the group left again lead by Marina. She had the scribbled map that Waldrous gave the group showing how to get to the goblin village. The group travels for an hour or two in the swamp carefully moving and listening in case of ambush. They come upon a slatted make shift wall that has seen better days. Some of the planks are missing allowing you to see inside the village. (((Gm description – you crest a small hill and come upon what looks like the remains of a small fort or encampment. There is a wall that looks as though it surrounds the area made of flat boards standing on end at least 7 feet tall. There is however some places where nature has reclaimed the boards causing cracks or openings here and there but none large enough for Arik or Gol- Gol to fit through. There aren’t any sounds coming from the encampment at all nor any signs of smoke or fire. )) Podge again sneaks forward first and looks inside. He comes back to tell the party “I didn’t see any goblins but there are a few huts in there. I bet they are sleeping as they like to be up at night. “Arik nods and the group moves forward this time with the paladin of Shelyn leading the way. He uses his strength to break open a larger hole in the far wall and they group slips in. Podge again whispers “let me go and set a diversion and scout ahead, you guys wait here “. The group stays put as the tiny Halfling moves out alone. Podge sees a pit with charred remains in it. He goes to the largest hut as Arik, Gol- Gol, Marina watch. Podge then casts burning hands on it setting it on fire. Arik clanks his sword to his shield letting out a Viking war cry and moves the group forward figuring their jig is up. The goblins come scurrying out of the huts. A few goblins are carrying some strange type of weapon. One goblin sits his on the ground as another runs up to it and lays a torch to the other end. The group is moving to intercept when the first boom goes off sending bright sparkling fireworks into the sky. The goblins all seem to stop and stare as the party now moves in to attack. A goblin that has a smaller version of the same thing lights his aiming it at Marina. It barely grazes her as the fight ensues. Marina strikes at the goblin with her long spear. Missing. Podge charges it from behind trying to stab it with a tiny dagger doing a tiny bit of damage to it. Arik and Gol -Gol have moved in seeming tandem and now each face 3 goblins each. Gol -Gol swings his mighty weapon down killing one instantly. The goblin drops with part of its torso severed. Arik attacks and narrowly misses one as it ducks out of the way. The goblins the return attacks missing Gol -Gol completely but tearing into Arik ((odd they both have the same ac but Arik was getting lit up)) . Marina attacks again and hurts the goblin but on its return attack the firework in its hand goes off hitting Marina squarely dropping her into unconsciousness. Podge cast a spell and hits the goblin with a tiny missile from his fingers. The goblin drops dead near Marina. Gol -Gol swings again ripping another goblin to shreds his ancestral anger now taking hold of him (he rages) . Arik swings and connects this time severing a head from one of the goblins. The remaining goblins press the attack. A goblin misses Gol -Gol yet the other strikes Arik again almost making the man drop. The hut Podge had set ablaze is now on fire. The hut door is broken down as Chief Gutwad rides out on his goblin dog. Gol- Gol moves and kills the last he was fighting. Arik uses his divine power to heal himself again whispering a prayer “Shelyn, goddess of all that is beautiful and right hear my plea and heal me giving me protection from those who shall mean me harm.” The goblin attacks at Arik hitting him but it was a grazing blow (1htpt) but in doing so he falls dead to the fury of the goddess protecting Arik. Chief Gutwad rides forward charging Arik but misses. Podge maneuvers closer and cast a spell upon the chief and two goblins at his side. Gol -Gol moves and throws a weapon hitting the chief hard. Arik again uses his action to ask his goddess for healing. The chief again swings at Arik missing and a goblin strikes him causing a wound yet again dies to the wrath of his goddess. Gol -Gol charges the chief and strikes him down. The remaining goblin flees as the party shouts victoriously. Arik sees the fallen Marina and rushes to her. They all then hear cracking and popping from the hut that was set afire. It reminds Podge of the blasts from the goblins fireworks so they all take cover in the charred pit. Arik tosses Marina over his shoulder jumping down into the pit using the last of his heals this day to heal her. Gol -Gol cuts the heart of Chief Gutwad out and lops off his head then hops in the pit. The party watches in sort of horror as Gol -Gol says “the strength of my enemy is now mine I claim it as my ancestors before “Gol- Gol begins to devour the chiefs still warm bloody heart. The party almost all lose their breakfast at this. The hut on fire stops making noise as it calms they party climbs from the pit. They lop off both ears from each goblin they have killed as Arik states “it is 10 gold an ear not for each goblin so we will take both ears back for gold. ((Wow a lg paladin who uses the lawfulness for good measure, who would have thought it possible)) . The party searches the village and finds some items and gold. They also notice a set of tracks that seem to be of something heavy dragged over the soft earth. They decide to rest for the night since Arik is out of heals and Podge is also out of spells, and then follow the tracks in the morning. They take refuge in one of the huts thinking it safe and post watches.