My schedule has finally cleared up and I’m ready to do some DMing! But, alas, I have no play group. What shall I do? Why, I think a play-by-post is the answer! The first one I tried fell flat due to scheduling problems, but those have been resolved now. I’m eager to start a new one and get some adventuring done!
But I still need some players! I’m looking for a party of six adventurers, but at least two (and very likely three) spots have already been reserved (by Sexi Golem and another friend of mine who will be joining the boards). That leaves three (possibly four) spots to be filled! I’d love to get a chance to DM for some of my fellow Lords of the Boards (Fatespinner, Fakey, Heathy, Aubrey, just to name a few!), but anyone is welcome to join.
The campaign will be of my own design, and set in my homebrew, Saern. Characters should be created using 32 point buy and will start at 1st level.
Rather than listing what options are and aren’t approved, just run ideas by me and I’ll either say yea or nea (probably yea). The only things I’ll ban upfront are psionics and overly setting-specific races (warforged, shifters, etc.). I’d love to see a list of diverse classes and races; my preferences run toward diversity within the classes of the PHB, but if you have an itch to play something from a supplement, just ask!
There may be some house rules here and there (i.e., I give half-elves +1 skill point per level; orcs are a viable races, but with altered statistics, etc.), but I’ll try to keep them to a minimum and inform players of such issues as they arise.
I initially posted this in the Gamer Connection thread, but some of the long-term posters here on the boards didn't seem to be checking. I wanted to give them a chance to express interest (or not).
I'll be posting some more info about the game as we go along (pantheon, basic setting history, etc.)
Certainly, Fake Healer! I was hoping you'd express an interest. A sorcerer or other spellcaster (as mentioned in the other thread) would be just fine!
Also, you mentioned the PHBII; I'm fine with duskblades, and would be willing to try having a knight in the game. I'd even be willing to experiment with the beguiler, though I don't really like the class (seems to tread on sorcerers too much for my tastes). The only thing I'll out and out say "no" to is the dragon shaman; regardless of balance, I just can't stomach the things.
I can't believe it... I actually came to the boards in time for a new PbP announcement! If you have room Saern, I'd love to play. If not, then curses! Too late again!
Maybe I'll be a Paladin ;)
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Also, you mentioned the PHBII; I'm fine with duskblades, and would be willing to try having a knight in the game. I'd even be willing to experiment with the beguiler, though I don't really like the class (seems to tread on sorcerers too much for my tastes). The only thing I'll out and out say "no" to is the dragon shaman; regardless of balance, I just can't stomach the things.
Cool, I'll get some ideas posted tomorrow....mostly I just brought up the PHB2 for variants class features, feats, and spells. Not really looking to do another Duskblade (although they are a favorite).
Whadda ya think of the Battle Sorcerer variant from the SRD? I kinda like the increased HD and BAB, although losing spell slots and spells known is kinda hurtful but I think I can make the concept work. I would probably do some ranged stuff with a bow and actually maybe be able to hit *GASP* with it!BTW, I ain't asking for it so I can break the game, just looking to be different flavour-wise. I would most likely just stick with it for 20 levels.
S
All right, the window of opportunity for joining is now closed! Fake Healer's in, as well as Kahoolin (oooh, paladin!), and Luke. You will be joining Sexi Golem, a friend of his (Gadreel), and a friend of mine (DragonNerd on these boards- I need to get him online again) for a total party size of six.
I know that DragonNerd is playing a human druid, using the Shapeshift varient from the PHBII. He's planning on primarily being a melee combatant, but perhaps he'll take the Spontaneous Healer feat from Complete Divine and can serve as the medic. If not, it would probably be a good idea for someone to take that role.
Fakey, while I have total confidence that you could pull off the battle sorcerer well, I'm not really enamoured with the idea. I'd be willing to try it out, but just looking at it, it leaves a funny taste in my mouth (I probably shouldn't lick the screen). I leave the choice to you, though.
In the months since my last PbP, I have completed a pantheon of my own, which we shall be using for this game; I will post deity information later, and as it becomes relevant.
Also, to Sexi: you've traditionally seemed to favor the play style of town- and city-hopping. I'm planning on using more of a home-base model, where sections of the campaign will revolve around one community before moving on to the next quite a bit later. So a more sedentary character (or at least not someone as provocative as your Fire Fox idea) is adviseable.
Any alignments are open for play, other than Chaotic Stupid (but I trust that won't be a factor here on Paizo!). Saern (at least the part where this campaign is set) is medium magic, by which I mean it is similar to most Dungeon adventures and Pathfinder.
And of course, the backgrounds you create for your characters are about as important to me as the actual stat blocks themselves! And so, for your character creation pleasure, here's some setting info (the campaign will take place in Korinal):
"Of course, the real tragedy of the war was not King Arothan’s death at the hands of the baal; he was not the first king of Merithil to die in battle. But it now appears he may have been the last. It was an unfortunate twist of fate that Prince Aladon was born first, and thus titled as heir to the throne. Had Prince Eonal been the elder, the kingdom would likely still be whole. But the Gods did not will it.
"King Arothan had always counted on having enough time to care for Prince Aladon, to weed out his instabilities and make him a suitable ruler, or at least wont to listen to his wiser, younger brother, Prince Eonal. But the warlocks of Ashurlak saw to it that Arothan’s time was cut short.
"And so, with a wild and clouded mind, Aladon ascended to the throne. Grief over the death of his father didn’t help; the death of a father Aladon felt never loved him, and whom Aladon desperately wished to be loved by, loved as Eonal was.
"It was only a matter of time before things became intolerable enough that Eonal was compelled to take action. Prince turned on Prince. Lines were drawn in the sand. Actions were taken which can never be revoked. The country was split, and four centuries of glorious history of Merithil as a single kingdom came crashing down in bloody civil war.
"Korinal was the worst hit. Claimed by nether Prince Eonal in Thaynnan, nor Aladon in Drallan, the lords and dukes fell upon each other with abandon. Now, a quarter century later, Korinal is a quilt, each scrap the tiny domain of some petty lord. Only the thread-bare stitching of truces and alliances hold an uneasy peace together."
-Liratham de Dyn, historian at the Tower of Enn Korin
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Thanks Saern for the include. I wasn't sure from one of your last posts if you were saying an Eldritch Knight character would be fine, or if you were responding directly to Fakey's post. If that concept works for your world and this group, I'll pursue it. Otherwise, I'll let others declare their character preferences first and fill in any obvious gaps.
I'll happily play anything in the book.
Eldritch knights are fine- they're actually my favorite fighter/mage option, even above duskblades, since eldritch knights are so much more versatile (especially if wizard is the base spellcasting class, which has always been my personal preference).
Anyway, I'm just a little wary of the battle sorcerer, but as I said, I'm willing to let Fakey give it a shot if he wants. Let's do be careful not to overweight the party in one area and underweight it in the other, however. With six people, there's a lot of wiggle room for filling different roles, but I'd stil advise all the basics be covered in some fashion.
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Cool. I completely agree on the balance thing. Fakey, I defer to your choice of classes since I don't have a strong preference.
Does the "(Again)" in the thread title imply that there's another play-by-post set in your homebrew in the archives somewhere? If there's setting clues in there that will help us flesh out full character backgrounds maybe I should go read that first?
Yes, I got a PbP started back when they were new to Paizo: Northwind Sun, it was called. However, there have been some minor revisions to the setting since then. The location of that campaign was very far removed from this one, as well. The game didn't go very far, either. I plan to reissue any information from that game which might be pertinent to character development in this one, but feel free to look!
I just spoke with DragonNerd and asked him to post here sometime today. He mentioned that he's not thrilled about the prospect of playing healer. But, depending on class composition (if we had a bard and a druid and a paladin, for example), the medic character might not be necessary. It's still too early to tell!
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If I am gonna be the only Arcane caster I will do a Metamagic Sorcerer (PHB2 variant) but I am leery of the lousy d4 HD.
I liked the Battle Sorcerer because he can take a hit, although it really costs him with losing a spell slot for each spell level and losing a spell known for each spell level. If we have another arcanist in our ranks I would like to do that, but without another caster we lose too much casting power if I start hitting the spell-list and slots.
Guess I need to see what others are playing before a firm decision.
What are the roles (political, economical, social) of demi humans in the region?
I've had thoughts about a halfling monk, or perhaps bard character and the extra info would be most appreciated.
Major house rules:
Races
Elves: Lose immunity to sleep effects (they sleep just like everyone else in Saern) and +2 bonus vs. enchantments. Lose automatic search for secret doors. Replace with universal +2 Will save bonus. Knowledge (arcana, history, and nature) each recieve a +2 bonus.
Half-elves: Lose immunity to slee effects and +2 bonus vs. enchantments. Replace with universal +2 Will save bonus. Gain an additional +1 skill point per level.
Half-orcs: Do not exist.
Orcs: Are a completely acceptable player race. Stats are based on, but differ from, those of half-orcs: +2 Strength, -2 Intelligence. +2 Craft (weaponsmithing), Intimidate, and Survival. Automatic weapon proficiency with the hand axe, throwing axe, and battle axe. Orcish double axe is considered a martial weapon. Oh, and of course, 60-foot darkvision, Medium size, and 30 foot movement speed.
Humans: Gain an additional language based on region of origin (more info to come on this later)
Classes
Paladins- Gain one bonus [Divine] feat at 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th level. Access to the Special Mount is delayed until 6th level. Additionally, any paladin needs to address creating a more specific Code of Conduct before begining play.
Sorcerers- Free Eschew Materials as a bonus 1st level feat.
(A note to Sexi and DragonNerd- While I have traditionally only required specialist wizards to sacrifice one spell school, I am going to run them as written this campaign, requiring two schools be sacrificed)
Skills
Open Lock has been subsumed under Disable Device. You're welcome, rogues.
(Additionally, there was a thread some months back where I did away with Concentration in favor of combining it with Spellcraft. This will not be in effect for this game: they are two separate skills here).
Character Generation
Characters will be made using 32 point buy, and shall start at 1st level. While normally I'd ask starting gold to be rolled for, it's a trivial matter. Assume maximum starting gold. In return, I expect to see things like bedrolls, belt pouches, rations, and even clothing listed in your characters' inventories and accounted for in encumberance. :) (I've seen quite a bit of this in other PbPs so far, so I don't think it will be an issue). Hit dice will start at maximum and be rolled each level. 1's may be re-rolled.
I believe that sums it up!
What are the roles (political, economical, social) of demi humans in the region?
I've had thoughts about a halfling monk, or perhaps bard character and the extra info would be most appreciated.
Glad you asked!
To the east and slightly south of Merithil sits Nysil, the Midnight Kingdom. Virtually all elves encountered in Merithil come from Nysil. The land is high elven, but with much more wood elven influence than is found in other high elven lands. Nysil elves are immediately identifiable by their hair, which is silvery.
Elves are typically accepted and even somewhat admired in much of Merithil. The origins of human culture in Arionor (the region Merithil is in) lie with the elves thousands of years ago, and the two races have remained on relatively good terms since then. At the same time, since the collapse of Merithil into civil war, the elves of Nysil have become much more isolationist towards the humans. There is a significant percentage of the human population which considers them to have abandoned Merithil in its time of need, and thus have a prejudice against elves.
Dwarves are a more active influence in local trade, though they have historically taken no significant role in Merithil's (or many other human nations') political affairs. Merithil is bounded in the north by the Dragonclaw Mountains, on the eastern flank of which is the major dwarven settlement of the region, the city of Thaldurn. Thaldurn itself is allied with (and most clans descended from) the dwarven nation of Mohr Doranth, further east.
Gnomes have little influence in Merithil, other than lending their assistance to building such mechanized things as clock towers and the like.
Orcs, as you may imagine, are typically encountered as raiders coming out of the Dragonclaws, although quite a few (more than most other races would like to see) find their way into more-or-less peaceable lives in human settlements.
Since it's the crux of your question, I'll spend more time on halflings:
Halflings are viewed with a mixture of disdain and admiration, depending on one's social status. The well-to-do tend to see them as untrustworthy vagrants and as likely to steal from you as deal straight with you. The poorer people look favorably on them (although not without some caution bred by the propoganda of the ruling class). Some elevate them to the status of folk heroes, champions of independence and perseverence, making their own way and their own luck in life.
The truth of the matter is that halflings are vital to trade. Their roaming caravans are one of the major methods of shipping goods from place to place. They are willing to take on servile roles that members of most other races would snub. They take these jobs because they choose to and because they don't consider themselves above doing them; not because they have to. If one deals unjustly with a halfling, one is very likely to be pilfered from. If one deals straight with them, they can be quite friendly and accomodating, often even loyal allies willing to lend a hand in a tight spot.
As a rule, halflings tend to keep to themselves, although amongst friends and family they are robust, quick to laugh and dance and sing. They favor flowing, colorful clothing. Unless employed where such things are prohibited, halflings are almost never seen without traveling boots and a large knife strapped to their belt, a thing useful in all sorts of situations and necessary for such an independent people. If the halfling race had an alignment, it would be Chaotic Neutral, with Good tendencies.
The bard would be the more common choice, and is a very common class for the race. The monk would be freakish for halflings, but all that means is a more unusual backstory and a different set of roleplaying opportunities.
Since there was a question about them, I'll also mention that eldritch knights are not uncommon in this region. Before the kingdom collapsed, a well-known but secretive organization of such individuals (the Spellguard) were at the king's beck and call, personal agents and representatives of his will. The order still exists, but they are much less common in Korinal since the throne lost its power in the region. Still, Spellguard are occasionally seen in the region on some mission at the command of Prince Eonal of Thaynnan, to the west. Their popularity depends on whether one desires to be reunified with the throne or remain independent. Of course, there are also non-Spellguard eldritch knights in the land.
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If I am gonna be the only Arcane caster I will do a Metamagic Sorcerer (PHB2 variant) but I am leery of the lousy d4 HD.
I liked the Battle Sorcerer because he can take a hit, although it really costs him with losing a spell slot for each spell level and losing a spell known for each spell level. If we have another arcanist in our ranks I would like to do that, but without another caster we lose too much casting power if I start hitting the spell-list and slots.Guess I need to see what others are playing before a firm decision.
So far it sounds like a multi-classing Wizard/fighter wouldn't be a bad fit, but we have no rogue yet. If Gadreel is not interested in rogue, I'll try to fill that need. Saern, what do you think of the DMG prestige classes for rogues (Shadowdancer or Arcane Trickster)?
I think shadowdancers look underpowered on paper, but I've never seen one in action. I'd be willing to find out! Arcane tricksters are just fine by me, too. As a rule, I allow any PrC in the DMG (even the Red Wizard- with a change of fluff, I've found a place for them).
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I did up both my ideas in a shortened form and, while I do like the extra HP and AC of the Battle Sorcerer, I am leaning towards the Metamagic Sorcerer (with Celestial Heritage feats from PHB2, I love some of the options it gives!). So I will most likely go with a Human Metamagic Specialist Sorcerer with some Celestial Heritage feats for spice. I figure an almost Aasimar type of dude. I may call him a priest of the magic god(who is the God of magic in this campaign?). We are doing a Good campaign, right?
I already have a bit of background concepts, I'll start building and post some results.
FH
Good alignments will work best with what I have in mind, yes. I also like the thought of the Celestial Heritage feats!
There are several deities with have an affinity with magic: many wizards pay homage to Orran the sun god, the Light of Knowledge. Diviners often feel drawn to Thetos, goddess of fate, time, and prophecy. Sorcerers often worship Akar, the Wind of Change, the god of storms and chaos. There are several deities commonly venerated by evil mages.
But the most likely choice for a Good sorcerer would be Erelune, the goddess of the moon, of passion, and of transformation. Erelune is Chaotic Good. Erelune is also the most commonly venerated deity amongst elves (there are no specifically racial gods in Saern), and very common amongst gnomes and halflings as well. While we're on the subject, her domains are Good, Luck, Magic, and Trickery. Her holy symbol is a silver crescent moon with a star between the tips of its horns. Her favored weapon is the longbow. She is the daughter of the sun god (Orran) and the earth goddess (Myra).
No stats drawn up yet but I'm leaning very strongly towards a halfling bard.
With the patchwork lines between nobles territories it seems like the area is perfect for the exploitation of mobile halfling caravans. Corrupt nobles enforcing levees and demanding fees to operate within their jurisdictions.
So if that sounds like a good fit for what you have in mind. My bard would be acting as a spy to try and discover some means to improve the situation. Plus he could act as a link to whatever resources the halfling community could/is willing provide. (contraband, information, safe houses)
whacha think?
Saern, how do you feel about Spirit Folk* from Oriental Adventures? I'm not thinking an actual asian-themed character, but I have a nice background in mind that works better if the PC has a touch of the Other Place in him. They aren't level adjusted or anything...
I'm having second thoughts about the Paladin now, as my concept is basically a hero from a fishing village who has an affinity with the sea. That would make him quite a bit more chaotic and intransigent than your typical Paladin. Maybe a Barbarian or Ranger with an eye for Exalted status? I tend to think of the concept first and then pick the crunch that best fits. Either way, Paladin or Ranger can be a decent secondary healer, which I don't mind at all.
*I don't want to mess with your cosmology at all - this could easily be explained as fey/elemental blood or whatever if nature spirits aren't your bag.
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Does the "(Again)" in the thread title imply that there's another play-by-post set in your homebrew in the archives somewhere? If there's setting clues in there that will help us flesh out full character backgrounds maybe I should go read that first?
Yup. Best PbP ever! Or something...
It was fun while it lasted. I'll just lurk on this one, though. Enjoy!
I'm thinking of doing a human rogue, an assassin hired by the elder king to take care of the younger. But when the down payment looks like a better deal then attempting to kill royalty, the elder king kidnaps his sister to force him to finish the job.
Instead, the rogue sneaks into the great castle and steals information regarding the location of the king's prison, it's secret location being the establishments greatest defence.
If that works for you Sexi Golem will help me with the numbers and details. If not, I got a few other ideas floatin' around.
Saern, how do you feel about Spirit Folk* from Oriental Adventures? I'm not thinking an actual asian-themed character, but I have a nice background in mind that works better if the PC has a touch of the Other Place in him. They aren't level adjusted or anything...
I'm having second thoughts about the Paladin now, as my concept is basically a hero from a fishing village who has an affinity with the sea. That would make him quite a bit more chaotic and intransigent than your typical Paladin. Maybe a Barbarian or Ranger with an eye for Exalted status? I tend to think of the concept first and then pick the crunch that best fits. Either way, Paladin or Ranger can be a decent secondary healer, which I don't mind at all.
*I don't want to mess with your cosmology at all - this could easily be explained as fey/elemental blood or whatever if nature spirits aren't your bag.
I don't have Oriental Adventures, so I'm not familiar with Spirit Folk. Can you give me an idea about what they are, and what mechanics they have?
No stats drawn up yet but I'm leaning very strongly towards a halfling bard.
With the patchwork lines between nobles territories it seems like the area is perfect for the exploitation of mobile halfling caravans. Corrupt nobles enforcing levees and demanding fees to operate within their jurisdictions.
So if that sounds like a good fit for what you have in mind. My bard would be acting as a spy to try and discover some means to improve the situation. Plus he could act as a link to whatever resources the halfling community could/is willing provide. (contraband, information, safe houses)
whacha think?
Okay! This has the potential to work well. Come up with a few alternate plot hooks/concepts for the character regarding how he's going about accomplishing this. Then I'll brainstorm with what I've worked on and tell you which option works best, and you can then develop it further along those lines.
Yup. Best PbP ever!
YE-AH! It was superawezumtasticness!
Seriously though, thanks for the compliment. I'm really sad that didn't pan out in the long run. I was having so much fun plotting all your dooms... err, heroic challenges. :P
I'm thinking of doing a human rogue, an assassin hired by the elder king to take care of the younger. But when the down payment looks like a better deal then attempting to kill royalty, the elder king kidnaps his sister to force him to finish the job.
Instead, the rogue sneaks into the great castle and steals information regarding the location of the king's prison, it's secret location being the establishments greatest defence.
If that works for you Sexi Golem will help me with the numbers and details. If not, I got a few other ideas floatin' around.
Would you be going for the assassin PrC? I'm not dead-set against letting Evil characters into the game, so long as it doesn't cause trouble. So far, everyone's been gearing towards Good PCs. The backstory is a little grandiose for a 1st level character, and the relationship between the two Princes isn't so simple as one wishing to kill the other. That said, it could be altered so the target was one of the nobles in Korinal.
If you want to go with this, I'll give it a shot. But I'd kinda like to hear some of the other ideas you've got floating around. They may be easier to integrate.
I don't have Oriental Adventures, so I'm not familiar with Spirit Folk. Can you give me an idea about what they are, and what mechanics they have?
I'll check when I get home from work, but for now I'll just say they are kind of like Genasi in FR - humans with nature spirits in their family tree. They have low-light vision and come in three flavours: Bamboo (which can be adjusted to be any sort of tree), who can speak with animals like a Gnome and are sneaky in woodlands; river who can speak with fish, swim well, and breathe underwater; and sea (the one I have in mind) who can swim well, breathe water, and get a bonus on survival checks to predict the weather. Water breathing is pretty cool I admit, but the other abilities are minor when you consider that you're losing the human's feat and skill bonus. Like I said, I'll post the Sea Spirit Folk info this afternoon.
I'll go Paladin... I've never played one before and it'll be an interesting character. You do have a coastline I can hail from right? Also I'll need help choosing a deity...
I was thinking my day job (that thing I do to eat up time in between my other rogue business and for easy access to a wealthy landlord) could be that I work as part of, if not the king, then a lord's staff. My position being so close to him and with my, be it minimal, experience as a rogue, I was found as being a prime applicant as the tool of his demise.
Not evil, more of chaotic good and trying to take advantage of a situation to get him and his sister enough money to leave the war plagued land. But when the soldiers sent to watch him see them trying to skip town...
If that still doesn't float your fancy I was also considering a halfling rogue, which could simply be tied together with Sexi's idea of the halfling community enduring a bit of economic hardship. But I also wouldn't mind going cleric if it does turn out we need a healer in the group.
I'll go Paladin... I've never played one before and it'll be an interesting character. You do have a coastline I can hail from right? Also I'll need help choosing a deity...
Okay, I'll await reading the race description on Spirit Folk.
Also, just FYI, if paladin doesn't fit the concept, I'm not holding you to the class. The promise of a paladin isn't what sealed the deal on you getting into this game. :)
That said, yes, there is a coast line not too far from where this will be taking place. Merithil is actually a fairly large penninsula, so there is quite a bit of sea to go around!
A deity, though, that will be a bit more of a challenge. As a paladin, likely choices would be Orran, the sun god, and King Arias, an ascended mortal and a patron figure of Arionor (the region takes its name from his). In Greyhawk terms, they relate somewhat to Pelor and Heironeous, respectively. Less likely, but still viable, choices include Thetos, the LN goddess of fate, time, and prophecy and Thoron (known as Torkan to humans, much to the distress of dwarves), the LN god of forges and smithing. There's also the goddess of the earth, Myra (NG). She does have a focus on waters, but it's more lakes and rivers than oceans.
As far as gods sea-farers often worship, the primary candidate would be Akar, the god of storms. But he's CN. Selwey, goddess of luck and travelers, would also be a common choice, but she's CN also.
So... there's something to think about!
Oh, and don't worry. I've actually listed a large percentage of the gods in the setting; I've only got 9 major (PC appropriate) ones, so we've gone through about the whole list. It's not going to be a continual onslaught of new names. :)
I was thinking my day job (that thing I do to eat up time in between my other rogue business and for easy access to a wealthy landlord) could be that I work as part of, if not the king, then a lord's staff. My position being so close to him and with my, be it minimal, experience as a rogue, I was found as being a prime applicant as the tool of his demise.
Not evil, more of chaotic good and trying to take advantage of a situation to get him and his sister enough money to leave the war plagued land. But when the soldiers sent to watch him see them trying to skip town...
If that still doesn't float your fancy I was also considering a halfling rogue, which could simply be tied together with Sexi's idea of the halfling community enduring a bit of economic hardship. But I also wouldn't mind going cleric if it does turn out we need a healer in the group.
Oh, I see what you're saying. The word "assassin" just threw me. Thought you were talking about the PrC. But if you're going to be Good, this concept will work out fine. I was just brainstorming some for Sexi's bard proposal and have a perfect nemesis to be holding your sister hostage. :)
There is a reason that halflings don't mind being manservants, cleaning boys, and waitresses. The small and the subsevient are practically invisible to the high and wealthy. The result is a halfling intelligence network that runs deep into every noble house and merchants guild. The halflings that don't share what they "stumble across" for the betterment of their own will gladly do some snooping for the gold their brothers and sisters are willing to share for their trouble.
Normally these nuggets of information are innocuous. A caravan gets early warning of a hike in trade taxes, or knowldge that a wealthy merchant is in need of quick cash and might offer great prices to offers with up front coin.
But the halfling community is nearing a braking point and may need to resort to something more drastic. A plan has been set to motion to weaken the estate of multiple lords and ladies that have been quite unkind to the caravans. While simultaiously vaunting the power of more kindly nobles.
Many plans have been set in motion. Vassals bribed or extorted to change their alleigence. Family relics and important documents will be pilfered, forged, or altered. The harshest and most severe of the greedy nobles may be "delt with" and replaced by dopplegangers (either simple look alikes or perhaps the actual creature) under the halflings employ.
A subtle coup is being planned. And my charaters role is to digg up information on a relatively (inactive, secretive,) noble house. And to (find some dirt or leverage, arrange a meeting, find a place to plant another halfling conspirator).
He will certainly have the disguise skill and many information gathering abilities so you can probably inject him in any place you want for the party to meet.
Any of that sound like it will work or is it too big?
Cool, thanks for the info! I think I will go Barbarian. I've always kind of wanted to play a Paladin, but the lawfulness/spokesman/protagonist bit sticks in my craw.
Here is a tentative stats and background, subject to approval etc.
There is a reason that halflings don't mind being manservants, cleaning boys, and waitresses. The small and the subsevient are practically invisible to the high and wealthy. The result is a halfling intelligence network that runs deep into every noble house and merchants guild. The halflings that don't share what they "stumble across" for the betterment of their own will gladly do some snooping for the gold their brothers and sisters are willing to share for their trouble.
Normally these nuggets of information are innocuous. A caravan gets early warning of a hike in trade taxes, or knowldge that a wealthy merchant is in need of quick cash and might offer great prices to offers with up front coin.
But the halfling community is nearing a braking point and may need to resort to something more drastic. A plan has been set to motion to weaken the estate of multiple lords and ladies that have been quite unkind to the caravans. While simultaiously vaunting the power of more kindly nobles.
Many plans have been set in motion. Vassals bribed or extorted to change their alleigence. Family relics and important documents will be pilfered, forged, or altered. The harshest and most severe of the greedy nobles may be "delt with" and replaced by dopplegangers (either simple look alikes or perhaps the actual creature) under the halflings employ.
A subtle coup is being planned. And my charaters role is to digg up information on a relatively (inactive, secretive,) noble house. And to (find some dirt or leverage, arrange a meeting, find a place to plant another halfling conspirator).
He will certainly have the disguise skill and many information gathering abilities so you can probably inject him in any place you want for the party to meet.
Any of that sound like it will work or is it too big?
For the moment, I'd like to keep this development secret, so the spoiler below is for Sexi's eyes only.
No, this is great! It's amazingly similar to what I just brainstormed up on my own. Here it is:
The Raven Alliance
A year ago, Baron Althun Vendran of Raven Hill successfully negotiated a sort of peace between himself and his adjacent rivals. Rather than attempting to conquer and dominate each other, he proposed they band together in a bloc to seize greater power in Korinal. Now his former enemies are his allies, members in the new Raven Alliance, of which Baron Vendran is the head. And they seek expansion, expansion through war. Every neighboring territory fears that any given day, the Raven Alliance might swoop across the border and attack.
But information on Raven Hill is extremely hard to come by. Typically, the halfling caravans making their way through the countryside are excellent sources of relatively cheap information. Baron Vendran couldn’t have his neighbors chatting up the little ones and finding out what his plans of attack were, though. Always a bigoted man, Baron Vendran suspected the halflings of snooping around, spying on him. Plus, he needed money. He was, in fact, mustering troops, and that isn’t cheap. So he placed taxes on the road, taxes accompanied by laws intended on harassing halflings. They were detained, their goods and belongings confiscated as contraband, and then fined exorbitant tolls for trade licenses and use of Alliance roads.
But that wasn’t enough for Baron Vendran. He began spreading anti-halfling propaganda. It was easy. The Raven Alliance’s isolation and antagonism to their neighbors was draining trade, and the people were worried. The halflings provided convenient scapegoats. Now, those who may have previously lent the little folk a helping hand curse them instead. Even those of kinder dispositions are afraid to show sympathy. Many halflings are currently sitting in Raven Alliance prisons, either unable to pay the ludicrous fines or accused of some bogus crime.
But the halflings are far from helpless. Baron Vendran has greatly underestimated the small people. They aren't keen to be victims any longer.
The campaign will initially be set in a town just across the river from the Raven Alliance. So, you can be going there to try and set up a kind of base of operations just on the "friendly" side of enemy lines. How's that? The reason I'm keeping this secret is that I'm guessing your character wouldn't blab it to the other PCs right off the bat. If you want to bring it out into open discussion, just let me know.
Cool, thanks for the info! I think I will go Barbarian. I've always kind of wanted to play a Paladin, but the lawfulness/spokesman/protagonist bit sticks in my craw.
Here is a tentative stats and background, subject to approval etc.
It looked like paladin would clash a bit with the rest of the party's style, anyway. I like this, though! I don't have the time, but I've got an idea for some more setting info I can give you to help plug this guy into the world even more.
I'll be back to the thread sometime tomorrow! Everything's looking good thus far.
Cool
You know the region and political climate so I'll leave it to you to create the actual mision objective for my character.
Sexi,
All right, time for a little more setting info! One of the seminal texts in the history of Saern's humans is The Ariad, an epic detailing the birth of human culture (in Arionor; other areas developed independently, although after Arionor), the Age of Ruin, and the ascension of King Arias to godhood. It's one of the most important historical texts, particularly in Arionor, and is central holy text of the Church of King Arias. The Ariad fills a thick tome and takes years of study to master. However, most people don't have that kind of time and energy to spare, but still enjoy hearing the story. For this reason, a massively truncated (and far less powerful) version of the story exists, though poets and clergy cringe to hear the hymn mangled so:
Come, oh ye hosts of Heav’n,
And fill my beating heart
With a soul to speak,
How King Arias
Lived, rose, and fell
In Elder Days of yore,
Men knew no god’s glory,
Our bones so enthralled
To the sons of Titans,
Cruel tyrants
By light of star and moon,
Elven grace did free
Men from Giant’s thrall,
And brought unto us
Seeds of our glory
In blood-soaked Cyrkul,
On the edge of doom
From maul of Giant’s wrath,
To the winds they called,
And far beyond
Erazu, Baal-spawn’d Prince,
Destroyer of light,
‘Fore whom all hearts shrank,
Hope died and wither’d,
And sword arms fail’d,
In blackest pits of hell,
Did hear Cyrkul’s plea,
And did grin to know
Their soon coming doom,
Age of Ruin
And forth the baal did flow,
Rending frail bodies
Of once their masters,
Fool Men of Cyrkul,
Who doomed us all
Saern into darkness fell,
All but one bright light,
The land of our Lord,
King Arias,
Arionor
And there in Cyrkul’s corpse,
The great souls did war,
Darkest Erazu,
‘Gainst our shining Lord,
King Arias
A-glow with ho’ly light,
Sun-bless’d mighty sword,
Did our Lord drive deep,
Through wreath of fell fire;
To Baal’s black heart
King Arias, Lord,
Stood triumphantly,
Erazu, Baal, fell’d,
World freed of darkness,
Age of Ruin
Then our great Lord did fall,
Took by mortal wound,
Erazu’s dread mark;
All Men stood silent,
Their souls weeping
On wings of golden light,
Orran, life’s giver,
Did our Lord raise up,
To be our Lord ever,
King in Heaven
Here is Xendril! His persona is based on some sort of stylized Dio. He sings his verbal components using Dio-esque lyrics.
Let me know what you think.
Here is Xendril! His persona is based on some sort of stylized Dio. He sings his verbal components using Dio-esque lyrics.
Let me know what you think.
All right, looks good! Question though- I must admit ignorance regarding the term "Dio." What are you referring to?
As to the question of your regional language, that depends. The name sounds exotic, which would likely indicate the region called Malorgon (quasi Arabic/East Indian). In that case, it would be Malorian. Or, you could be native to the campaign's region (Arionor, language Ariol) and simply have an unusual name (Erelune is the deity most worshiped by elves, so perhaps the name is elven; or it could be a saint-like figure prominent in the religion; did your character choose the name, or did his parents?)
The note about his voice not being the best in the world, but the singing still having power- are we talking Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, what? :P (That doesn't have to be answered if you don't want!)
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DIO, MAN!!! RONNIE JAMES DIO!!! Lead singer of Black Sabbath after Ozzie left them! Formed his own band caller Dio and is pretty much the D&D community's Lyricist!! How can you not know who Dio is?!?! Holy Diver, Sacred Heart, Rock and Roll Children!!! He introduced the "devil-horn" hand raising gesture to Rock and Roll!!! GAAHHHH!
I can't imagine a D&Der who doesn't know who Dio is! Good Lord!
I am spent. Must go hug knees in a corner for a while....
Tenacious D wrote a song about Dio.
DIO, MAN!!! RONNIE JAMES DIO!!! Lead singer of Black Sabbath after Ozzie left them! Formed his own band caller Dio and is pretty much the D&D community's Lyricist!! How can you not know who Dio is?!?! Holy Diver, Sacred Heart, Rock and Roll Children!!! He introduced the "devil-horn" hand raising gesture to Rock and Roll!!! GAAHHHH!
I can't imagine a D&Der who doesn't know who Dio is! Good Lord!
I am spent. Must go hug knees in a corner for a while....
Well now you've met one. Sorry to traumatize you so! :P
Now, about that name....
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DIO, MAN!!! RONNIE JAMES DIO!!! Lead singer of Black Sabbath after Ozzie left them! Formed his own band caller Dio and is pretty much the D&D community's Lyricist!! How can you not know who Dio is?!?! Holy Diver, Sacred Heart, Rock and Roll Children!!! He introduced the "devil-horn" hand raising gesture to Rock and Roll!!! GAAHHHH!
I can't imagine a D&Der who doesn't know who Dio is! Good Lord!
I am spent. Must go hug knees in a corner for a while....Well now you've met one. Sorry to traumatize you so! :P
Now, about that name....
Stage name. He doesn't use his real name anymore.
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Saern,
No idea if these should be behind a spoiler or not.
Were there any fissures among the spellguard after the loss of the king? Did they all flock to Eonal, or did they split?
Also, how much shame do the spellguards bear for allowing the king to die in battle? Were they like a personal guard on the battlefield?
Lastly, how bloody have the clashes been between the forces of the two princes?