Very good. And all good points. Thank you.
(MAN I can't wait to get a copy!)
I suspect that there will soon be reprint, with addendums and corrections. ;P
In the short run, shall we presume that Danny (whether by aiming high and getting lucky, or aiming low, and taking the extra stress his roll presented to him) cast a Veil 6 and took 4 mental stress?
This would fill up his mental stress boxes. We don't take consequences until after we fill them up, right? :S
If you rule that he was aiming lower, (As I did not intend to try and cast a spell that might incapacitate me!) that is fine too. (I was under the misunderstanding that we rolled to see how effective an effect was, not set a goal and try to hit it. Now I know!) :)
Thank you! And now on wit the show! :D
Very good. And all good points. Thank you.
(MAN I can't wait to get a copy!)
I suspect that there will soon be reprint, with addendums and corrections. ;P
In the short run, shall we presume that Danny (whether by aiming high and getting lucky, or aiming low, and taking the extra stress his roll presented to him) cast a Veil 6 and took 4 mental stress?
This would fill up his mental stress boxes. We don't take consequences until after we fill them up, right? :S
If you rule that he was aiming lower, (As I did not intend to try and cast a spell that might incapacitate me!) that is fine too. (I was under the misunderstanding that we rolled to see how effective an effect was, not set a goal and try to hit it. Now I know!) :)
Thank you! And now on wit the show! :D
I need to get a post up on this point along with the rest on stress boxes and consequences.
The first main thing to understand is that stress boxes are not additive nor are they connected. They are not like hit points in DnD. They are discreetly separate boxes.
If a monster has taken a 1 physical stress and a 3 physical stress goes on to take a 4 physical stress then that 4 spot is still open. The 4 spot is not filled with combination of the 1 and the 3. The monster instead has their 1, 3, and 4 boxes filled leaving the 2 box unfilled.
If a target takes a hit for box that is already filled then it 'rolls' up to the next empty box. If the damage rolls 'beyond' the last stress box then the target has to either take a consequence or be 'knocked' out of the fight.
Danny has his Mental 4 box filled but boxes 1 to 3 are still empty allowing less 'stressful' results to still fill these boxes.
OH. Wow. Ok, THAT is different!
8O
Hm, so I'll digest that for a while,... There's a strategy waiting to be realized in there I'm sure,... ;)
So, Danny has his #4 mental stress box filled, but 1,2 & 3 are open. NOW I see how Harry can pull off so many spells in a fight with his character sheet! :) <light bulb turns on> (It's DIM, but it's there!) ;P
Thx again!
A bit of fandom. Jim Butcher and Fred Hicks (Evil Hat Productions that makes the Dresden RPG) are interviewed on 'The Walking Eye Podcast'.
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I actually live in Athens and speak some degree of Greek (not exactly fluent, but enough to get by) so the demigod and scholar whose focus words are psuedo ancient Greek make me smile.
Oddity for your amusement- common names still in usage in Greece: Demetra, Aries, Hercules, Adonis, Athena, Aphrodite, Dionysus and so on.
People name their children after their parents (grandparent of the baby) so names stick around.
Deidre is up in Thread B
Nathaniel is up in Thread A
Say, if/when we get into another fight, think we could maybe get a rough map so we might be able to figure out where things are in relation to each other? No need for anything fancy (I mean, Google Docs is much more than enough for what I'm talking about), but I still have only have a vague idea where anything is in relation to anything else in this fight.
(Only linking to a map I made for a different pbp to show something simple that's much more complex than I'm hoping for. Really, at most I'm hoping for a rough sketch of where we are and everyone's place in it. This, basically. Guy A and some civilians are in one place, Guy B is two zones away, Guy C and Guy D are near Guy B but are still a zone away.)
Here is a map that covers both Thread A and Thread B. It is a rough area sketch map.
Cool, Thx Smerg! :)
I have been thinking about it and wanted to ask if it would be possible to change characters? (after the current happenings at the the ROM is fine with me, unless you want to before.) I am just not really connecting with the character like I had hoped. I have been working with my original idea of a mortal monster hunter. (which is why I have not asked sooner. The work that is. I have all the basics of the character completed, and am just working on including the write ups for the Aspects.)
Let me know what you think. If you would rather I not change I can keep playing Pernilla.
This is some basics of the idea I had for the monster hunter... Might have a change or two in mind. (Suggestions would be welcomed.)
** spoiler omitted **
I'm fine with the character concept and character of Emily Zhoa. When people get out of the museum, you can change your character. I expected some changes and shakedown of characters and concepts after the first session.
Happy Thanksgiving to all!
(Even you non-American types! EVERYone deserves a holiday where the primary means of celebration is stuffing your self stoopid!) :)
Deidre and Nathaniel are up.
Deidre and Nathaniel are up.
Sorry. I'm just too indecisive. There are just too many things I could do, so I just lock up because I don't know which would be best at the moment. Should I cast a spell? Should I put an aspect on something? What aspect? There's just too much.
I've got half a mind to drop out of this game now. I love the game, and I love character creation, but I just suck horribly at actually playing it.
Deidre and Nathaniel are up.Sorry. I'm just too indecisive. There are just too many things I could do, so I just lock up because I don't know which would be best at the moment. Should I cast a spell? Should I put an aspect on something? What aspect? There's just too much.
I've got half a mind to drop out of this game now. I love the game, and I love character creation, but I just suck horribly at actually playing it.
The fun thing is that this is really a story game and not a strong 'tactical' game.
The aim of this combat is players to try things and shake down their characters a bit. People don't even need to be 'committed' to keeping their characters at this point since it is a 'new' system for everyone. It has plenty of room for people to evolve the rules and try new things.
Try something, save a few people, feel like a hero.
Harry must be an easy character to play. When in doubt, light everything on fire.
ARE you kidding? your indecisiveness is perfect; really, sure we trained soldier types follow our directives, training, all as inprinted thought patterns; but it isnt easy being a character like yours, and your indecisiveness is genuine and refreshing.
Deidre and Nathaniel are up.Sorry. I'm just too indecisive. There are just too many things I could do, so I just lock up because I don't know which would be best at the moment. Should I cast a spell? Should I put an aspect on something? What aspect? There's just too much.
I've got half a mind to drop out of this game now. I love the game, and I love character creation, but I just suck horribly at actually playing it.
Okay, I'm pretty much calling the end of the first scene at this point.
You have had a chance to see the rules in action and shake down your characters a bit.
I know some people have expressed an interest in possibly changing characters fully or changing parts of characters.
I would like a bit of feedback at this point.
1> Overall story - Three story elements have been introduced with the Trolls, Jiang Shi, and Mikaela Skaven. I used several elements to make sure there was plenty for the group to do. How did it work out? Do you want to keep the several story elements (which is typical of a novel which uses a braided plot construction) or do you want to simplify?
2> Rule System General - How did you find the aspects and compels? Anything that you would change or do differently?
3> Rule System Magic - How did you find the way magic worked for people that used magic? Was it what you want or do you want something changed? Is there a need for clarification of any magic rules or elements?
4> Any other feedback that you think needs to be mentioned or discussed. This is a new system so if the opposition is too tough or not tough enough then let me know. Also, let me know if the system is working for you.
Let me say that, despite my last post in this thread, I'm still here if other people are still here. I'll just have to not freeze up the next time we get into a fight.
1> Overall story
It's the start of the first story. It did everything it was supposed to. I'd just try to keep things focused on one storyline per thread at a time. Otherwise this could get confusing fast.
2> Rule System General
It's still a good system. I'm just bad at it.
3> Rule System Magic
Works fine for me.
It's taken some getting used to, but I think it's going pretty well. Maybe a little slow, but it's about that time of year for being slow.
1) I think we need a better reason to join up as a group than being in the same place at the same time. Perhaps the employers/mentors/etc. of the characters could order them to work together.
2) The only aspect of the story I didn't like was the ninjas. Just my opinion. Can't win 'em all.
Okay, I'm pretty much calling the end of the first scene at this point. Etc,...
Ahhh, And I was just about to have Danny and the girls kick the lead troll for a field goal! (using the Aspects 'Triple teamwork' and 'Nyahh Nyahh you can't see me' for bonuses!) ;P
(Yeah, I think I'm starting to get the hang of the aspects. Finally.) ;)
In order from above;
I think I want to juggle Danny 'Stats/skills' a bit, (NO Awareness at all? What WAS I thinking?!?) but otherwise I want to keep trying him out for a while. I think he has potential. And it is different type of character than I usually play powers-wise.
1> Overall story- I like the multiple possibly-but-not-always-related story lines. I vote keep them. Heck, add to them! Whatever plot line we don't 'finish' in this 'book' just leaves us with another lead into the next 'book'!
2> Rule System General- Finally getting used to the difference between a 'tag' and a 'compel'. But getting there. I'm definitely liking the story-telling mode of the game, and not having too many problems coming up with Area Aspects to tag. Still not familiar enough to know if there is anything I'd want to/would do differently. Yet.
3> Rule System Magic- Again, Getting the hang of it. It IS starting to make sense to me. (If I could just get my hands on a book!)
I Would like to clarify once more the difference between Danny's Fae Illusion magic and that of the others. (Game rules wise) So as not to slow down the game in the middle of a scene. This would be easier If I could SEE the rules for the mages! But we are still O.U.T. of print here. ;P
Spoilered for length:
For now, just tell me if I have this right; (This only counts for Danny's Illusion magic, not the standard casters)
-Decide what illusion I want to cast (Invis Veil, make the Blue Beetle look like a Camaro, or make Danny look like Johnny Marcone)
-Decide how strong I want to (try) to make the illusion. (Say, Shift 4) (Max shift of Veil is still determined by my Conviction, correct?)
-Roll (Deceit for Danny). If matches my roll, illusion goes off as planned. If lower, take stress to get it up to needed lvl (or aspects, see next step) If higher, release extra shifts into environment, OR take extra stress to make illusion more powerful. (+1 stress/per Shift)
-Add/Tag etc Aspects (Spending Fate points as required) to help boost roll or re-roll.
4> Any Other feedback- Still too new to the system to be capable of a USEFUL critique, but I think your doing a good job of holding it together and trying to keep the scene flowing. (Not an easy job when you have 5 or 6 'writers' trying to collaborate on a single scene!)
Still need more combat practice to get best/full use out of personal skills and environmental aspects. But at first glance, seemed fair. Difficult, but not TOO overboard. (It IS supposed to be a challenge after all!) And the heroes usually loose the first encounter, just to set up the rest of the book! And if a few more rolls had gone the other way,... those trolls wouldn't have gotten away so easily! The undead band was cool and creepy (I want to know what they were doing there!) And while tough, again weren't TOO tough! Danny even got lucky and avoided damage in his one fight moment with them, and the mages and warrior didn't seem to be having too many difficulties with their respective areas of expertise.
In short (TOO LATE!)- :)
I like it so far, rules starting to make sense, I like the setups you have going and the way you are keeping the action flowing. Also enjoying the others interactions and various writing styles.
I would like to keep going. (And tweak Danny EVER so slightly!) Thsi has the makings of an awesome game!
Would anyone mind if I strongly considered making this thread into a Campaign Journal? (Or are you getting your fill of my 'writing' here?) ;P
Does Songdraon/Pernilla's player want to change her character at this point?
This affects on whether I need to run a bit in NeverNever or not.
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Well, it looks like we have people that are good with what has happened for an opening scene and a general character shakedown.
Sorry, Danny, I just felt the energy was leaving the scene and figured it was time to move things along to the next fresh bit.
The next bit will likely be some usage of investigation and related skills as people sort out all that occured.
Museum staff and regular police will temporarily shut down the museum for investigation as a crime scene and even Dr Carding with his mother's contacts will have a hard time getting in until the police and insurance auditors have assessed the damage and checked the collections for missing pieces which could take a couple of days.
I would suggest that this is a good time for Aximeus to offer to the various people that seem to know each other to go to his Chinese restaurant for some proper, non-bug food.
You can consider this a minor milestone and 'end of session' point as players can refresh their Fate pools if they are less then full (if you have more than you keep what you have going forward). I won't impose the normal restrictions on character changes as people can pretty much do a full rebuild at this point. If you want to change to a different character then let me know here and we'll say that the character was a 'friend of a friend' or similar introduction and have them join events and story at the restaurant in China Town.
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1> Overall story - Three story elements have been introduced with the Trolls, Jiang Shi, and Mikaela Skaven. I used several elements to make sure there was plenty for the group to do. How did it work out? Do you want to keep the several story elements (which is typical of a novel which uses a braided plot construction) or do you want to simplify?
Honestly- I haven't read what was going on in the ballroom yet since Deirdre wasn't there. Should I?
As far as multiple story lines, do you prefer the multiple threads? Is it annoying to just use spoilers in one central thread when the group is split? That is what we typically do in other games I play, but if we are going to be split frequently it might be annoying to constantly post in spoilers.
David's player has a good point about binding the characters together a little tighter. Currently other than checking to make sure Pernilla, David and Aximeus are alright I don't have a lot of cause to continue interacting with them after the museum scene. The artifacts were stolen and that is bad news, but at present not bad enough to compel her to make it her business in any meaningful way.
2> Rule System General - How did you find the aspects and compels? Anything that you would change or do differently?
I don't understand the rule system in practice yet, but I guess I'll get there as I interact with it more. Simple die rolls are easy to understand of course, but I'm far from savvy about interacting with tags or compels right now.
3> Rule System Magic - How did you find the way magic worked for people that used magic? Was it what you want or do you want something changed? Is there a need for clarification of any magic rules or elements?
Doesn't apply for Deirdre, so I'll go on a tangent vs with her scream attack. I had the idea that it was a reasonably strong attack, not super powerful but something that might let her hold her own / contribute in a group. I had the idea that 7 was a pretty decent attack. Considering I spent a fate point to get it up there and I could only have rolled 2 more successes max, I think that means 9 is the best I could possibly do if all the dice came up in my favor. Is that a decent attack? I didn't expect to take a troll down with one blast of that by any means, but the fact that it was not even inconvenienced by the attempt surprised me. Was that a consequence of trolls being super badassed (I realize I cannot bypass their catch with that attack), or poor strategy (complete lack of any strategy I should say) on my part? Let's say I took those 7 successes and instead had tried to impart the condition of "stunned" or "deafened" to the troll I hit. Would that have been more likely to have any success?
Another question- cold iron is anathema to faeries. In game terms it bypasses their catch. Deirdre currently has no powers with a catch. Does that mean she would have no penalty for carrying around a cold iron knife if she wanted to? Should it have some IC consequences even if it had no mechanical ones or would you say she's just too human to be bothered by cold iron at present. (Caveat- I'm not familiar with the rules and didn't go searching before I wrote that so I may be missing the obvious.)
4> Any other feedback that you think needs to be mentioned or discussed. This is a new system so if the opposition is too tough or not tough enough then let me know. Also, let me know if the system is working for you.
Doesn't apply for Deirdre, so I'll go on a tangent vs with her scream attack. I had the idea that it was a reasonably strong attack, not super powerful but something that might let her hold her own / contribute in a group. I had the idea that 7 was a pretty decent attack. Considering I spent a fate point to get it up there and I could only have rolled 2 more successes max, I think that means 9 is the best I could possibly do if all the dice came up in my favor. Is that a decent attack? I didn't expect to take a troll down with one blast of that by any means, but the fact that it was not even inconvenienced by the attempt surprised me. Was that a consequence of trolls being super badassed (I realize I cannot bypass their catch with that attack), or poor strategy (complete lack of any strategy I should say) on my part? Let's say I took those 7 successes and instead had tried to impart the condition of "stunned" or "deafened" to the troll I hit. Would that have been more likely to have any success?
Yeah, it's a Good(+3) attack that's equivalent to hitting everyone in a cone with a baseball bat, so yeah it's pretty good. They were only mostly unaffected because they were really damn tough and could just soak your attack without taking any Consequences. Really, you probably won't take someone out in one hit unless they take a bad enough Consequence from it to want to concede, just because of how the stress system works.
Also, using it to put an aspect on instead of attacking (and not just dealing enough damage to make them take a consequence) would be a Maneuver, so you wouldn't get the two dice for making a Weapon(2) attack. Otherwise it's just about the same.
Another question- cold iron is anathema to faeries. In game terms it bypasses their catch. Deirdre currently has no powers with a catch. Does that mean she would have no penalty for carrying around a cold iron knife if she wanted to? Should it have some IC consequences even if it had no mechanical ones or would you say she's just too human to be bothered by cold iron at present. (Caveat- I'm not familiar with the rules and didn't go searching before I wrote that so I may be missing the obvious.)
No Catch, so you can carry one around without violating it. Smerg would probably compel Banshee Bartender a lot because you're fey-blooded and carrying around a chunk of cold iron and that's bound to have some side effects, but it won't negate any of your powers or anything.
1> Overall story - Three story elements have been introduced with the Trolls, Jiang Shi, and Mikaela Skaven. I used several elements to make sure there was plenty for the group to do. How did it work out? Do you want to keep the several story elements (which is typical of a novel which uses a braided plot construction) or do you want to simplify?
I think it worked out overall. Many aspects for folks to get involved with. I did like the separate threads for doing different things. In the end I think it was unwise to try and take on 5 trolls with only 2 of us. They were much tougher than I thought (the troll in Restoration of Faith did not seem as bad, but that was a story, and I am sure Mr. Butcher did not roll to see outcomes.
Like the others we needed to feel more together rather then being in the same place at the same time.
2> Rule System General - How did you find the aspects and compels? Anything that you would change or do differently?
Still unsure about this part. It does seem to work, with only a few The Fate points to start I did find myself saving them rather than wanting to spend them.
3> Rule System Magic - How did you find the way magic worked for people that used magic? Was it what you want or do you want something changed? Is there a need for clarification of any magic rules or elements?
I still need to read up on these. But I have the physical books now, so will be easier rather than sitting in front of a computer to do so.
One thing I wanted to ask... Are pure mortals able to do rituals (example: banish demons or such with the Latin incantations... or create devil's traps with circles and pentacles... salt to keep out baddies.) I am thinking of Supernatural where anyone can really do certain things, as long as they know what they are doing
4> Any other feedback that you think needs to be mentioned or discussed. This is a new system so if the opposition is too tough or not tough enough then let me know. Also, let me know if the system is working for you.
I like it. It's different than my D&D/Pathfinder and Star Wars games. Just need to come at things with a different mind set. being story based, much of anything we think of is possible.
Does Songdraon/Pernilla's player want to change her character at this point?
Yes, I will be changing to the Pure Mortal Monster Slayer concept. I did put off getting everything together, but I will get on it ASAP.
I have some of it worked out so I fit in with previous stories that are already established. Unless folks change that is.
I still need to read up on these. But I have the physical books now, so will be easier rather than sitting in front of a computer to do so.
One thing I wanted to ask... Are pure mortals able to do rituals (example: banish demons or such with the Latin incantations... or create devil's traps with circles and pentacles... salt to keep out baddies.) I am thinking of Supernatural where anyone can really do certain things, as long as they know what they are doing
Well, I don't know what the RULES say about this, <staring with envy at Songdragon and his new books!> ;P
BUT, in 'Dead Beat' Butters worked a standard 'protection circle' several times with only a piece of chalk and a drop of his own blood. And Harry explained that almost anyone could work magic. At least the 'simple stuff'. But not everyone can be any good at it. (IIRC- It has been a while since I read that one, I plan on re-reading the entire series soon(ish) before "Ghost Story' comes out next year. I hope I'm remembering it correctly.)
Re: 'Better motivation for us to all be together' - I had just presumed the party was the means to get us involved together and get the ball rolling, and that PC interactions would provide the actual motivation/reasons for sticking together as a group. (And it was a pleasant change from the cliched 'So several heroes meet in a bar,...') ;P
Personally it worked for me. Not only did it provide a valid and believable premise for us all being in the same spot at the same time, but it was an interesting way for Smerg to introduce several interesting plot threads for us to pick up and run with.
And really, what better way to shake down a new rules system than a party/brawl? :)
One thing I wanted to ask... Are pure mortals able to do rituals (example: banish demons or such with the Latin incantations... or create devil's traps with circles and pentacles... salt to keep out baddies.) I am thinking of Supernatural where anyone can really do certain things, as long as they know what they are doing
They can if they can find a ritual that hasn't been rendered powerless by too many people knowing it. It's a use of Lore and works like temporarily gaining Sponsored Magic for the use of a single specific spell. Otherwise it works the same as any other form of magic. You need to use Lore to actually find the ritual, though.
Pure Mortals have 4 ways they can 'do' magic.
1> There are a number of 'things' like holy water, old silver, etc. that can be used to affect various creature's catches. One thing should be remembered that in these sorts of things that the 'details' can be very important.
In the story of Dracula it is mentioned wood used as stakes but it is very specific on the type of wood used and where the wood is harvested. Your garden variety plywood or formica is not the stuff mentioned and can make a big difference in the final result.
2> Ithuriel mentioned the 'true' rituals. These are rituals given over by some entity of the deep Nevernever. When they become 'common' then there is still one entity on the other end with thousands or hundred's of thousands of people making appeals and things are worn to the ground trying to respond.
The worst case are things like the great Cthulhu that now has even plushy pillows and dice bags in his image. Well known but hardly feared as a bobble head doll.
'True' rituals require Lore skill research to find and learn. You then just have to do the gathering of the materials and the casting. The entity invoked provides the 'power'.
Finding these rituals is difficult as the people who own them are jealous of them getting out and stripped of usefulness (like having a personal genie and using up the three wishes).
3> Mortals can 'borrow' power by using a magical item that is enchanted like Munroe does. Note that doing this 'strips' the Mortal bonus from the character if you carry the item around for a story instead of using and discarding it (returning it to the owner). The characters on Supernatural would usually not be defined as 'Mortal' by Dresden RPG as they often are carrying the magical Colt or Dagger. Sam's psychic and demon powers in particular make him less 'human' and so not available for the Fate bonus.
4> Mortals can be contributors to a ritual performed by another. They help to power the ritual by their attendance and any sacrifices they choose to make.
2> Ithuriel mentioned the 'true' rituals.
But I don't even look like Ithuriel...
Anyway, can we have a summery of what we know so far? I was going to do that in my post-fight post, but I'm not actually sure what we all do and don't know.
Oops sorry on that Davi.
Recap of what is 'known'.
1> Bad things happened at the Gala.
2> People that stayed up and fought the Jiang Shi know that they were there but not why they were there. There were five of them and that there faces were covered with pieces of paper written in red ink in the form of Chinese Characters. When the Jiang Shi stopped functioning the characters 'bled' away though the water pouring from the water sprinklers likely helped with that.
2> People that followed the trolls know there were five trolls and do know they grabbed some sort of cattle like headdress. People that did not follow the trolls know that several large humanoid fae (though Danny got a clear look at them and could tell you they were trolls) charged out of the lower level of the museum and through the crowd.
3> Dr Carding saw his mother with Mikaela Skaven. Most of the people at the Gala that were guests saw Mikaela arrive late with several important people (councilor and chief of police) draped on her arms. Post museum disruption they will help to 'take charge' of the rescue efforts of the injured.
4> During the battle there were several 'hexes' released. Dr Carding knows that he was responsible for some of it but not all of it. People with magical sight could do a magical investigation if they had access to the area to figure out who might have fired hexes (magical equivalent of a dog picking up a scent or a CSI getting a fingerprint). The result of the hexes was a small surge in the electricity and sensors resulting in lights and alarms being affected.
5> Deidre is aware that Munroe grabbed a few items before leaving the museum out the back. Neither Deidre or Munroe is aware of where Pernilla went or how she left the museum.
Let me know if you have any more points to cover.
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I haven't missed some of the points and questions brought up previously in the other postings and I will get them answered.
Ithuriel
1> Yes, if you talk with the other players then you can post battle look at the other threads. I will assume that like in a book you 'catch-up' with each other without needing to write it all out (just like a in novel when the author says the characters sat down and went over the events of the last few days).
2> If your character, Deidre, needs a stronger tie in then Cassandra's Tears can provide it. I can suggest a 'vision' for you to refine and speak to people.
3> Yeah, a 7 is an extremely strong attack. That would almost instantly kill most humans. It is a demonstration of how tough trolls are that they could shrug that type of attack. You would likely have shattered a Jiang-Shi/Zombie with that attack. On a good roll you might even take down a Troll with that (particularly if you have a maneuver granting an extra +2 to set it up).
4> Cold Iron or other Fae banes will generally not be a problem for you but I could 'compel' your Fae nature of being a Banshee for a +2 modifier by an opponent but I would have to 'pay' you a fate chip to do it.
5> Davi has the part on the Maneuver covered. You generally have to 'score' equivalent to the level of 'permanent' wound you are putting on a person. If you want to 'temporarily' deafen someone then you need enough success to avoid the person dodging (usually 3 to 4 shifts higher than their resisting skill which is usually endurance against a verbal scream; so, on a human that would be normally 3 to 4 but on a troll that would be 6 to 7) plus the level of effect you are tacking on as an effect in stress value (mild is 2 stress, moderate is 4 stress, severe is 6 stress). If you wanted for example to pretty much permanently deafen a human and be 'guaranteed' of the effect working then you would need 9 to 10 shifts. If you got less shifts then the person might resist the effect or the duration of the 'deafening' would last less time (days instead of months with surgery).
Ragadolf
I believe that you have it right for your illusions. You set the effect and based on your conviction it determines how 'hard' it is for you in stress value to do. You can make a 'bigger' effect then your conviction skill but it will cost you more stress to do it. The level of effect then determines what you need to roll in skill to make it appear 'real' to people that interact with it.
You have minor illusions which means that none of it is 'real' in that you can not 'thump' someone over the head with an illusionary bottle that you might be seen holding.
Just a reminder that everyone should be using Thread A now for posting as there has been time for people to congregate outside of the Museum.
Apologies to all... this week has been extremely busy for me. I should have Friday here to work on the character. Just some minor tweaking, as I have most of it written up. Just a some changes to fit some new ideas.
I am not sure how you wanted to have her join the others Smerg, but I still have her knowing David Manroe (in this role Emily would have given him information on his hunt and been in New Orleans, but she was not where all the main action was... taking down the real alpha of shifers who was fleeing) And with Deirdre Harlowe (still working that one... likely in the background, catching some monster from behind or getting in touch with her as a contact). It should all work out.
Again sorry for not getting my own stuff togther and done.
For Pernilla... she would have attempted to ambush the trolls, using her rune magics to hide her until they arrived... and then strength and speed runes in an attmept to grab the goods they had gotten and get the heck out of the Nevernever and return to monoc.
No matter the outcome, when she got back from the Nevernever she would contact Manoroe (or perhaps that is Emily's in... to deliver the message, of what happened.)
I will let Smerg decide how events when down. (and/or make the rolls to see if she succeed or failed to get what the trolls stole.)
I'm leaving Pernilla and her 'adventures' a mystery at this point.
I might later have Munro or others with connection to Monoc Securities get some 'hints' or requests for aid/work.
Songdragon, I'd appreciate it if you picked a different avatar for Emily. That one reminds me of that creepy guy on the boards who does PbP as a bunch of 12 year old Asian girls with elaborately described clothing. Example. Example #2.
Whenever I see that avatar, I am instantly squicked out.
Songdragon, I'd appreciate it if you picked a different avatar for Emily. That one reminds me of that creepy guy on the boards who does PbP as a bunch of 12 year old Asian girls with elaborately described clothing. Example. Example #2.
Whenever I see that avatar, I am instantly squicked out.
No worries... changed.
Any advice, critiques, or corrections are welcome.
Emily Zhoa (alias Sarah Cho)
Template Pure Mortal
High Concept 13th Generation Monster Hunter
Trouble I Know What Goes Bump In the Night; And Have to Do Something About It.
Aspects
I Was Never There
The Venatori Umbrorum Network
By the Book
Thrill of the Chase (Hunt)
Do Not Hunt Alone
Stress
Physical [ ] [ ] [ ]
Mental [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
Social [ ] [ ] [ ] [ ]
Consequences
Mild -2 [ ]
Moderate -4 [ ]
Severe -6 [ ]
Power Level: Submerged
Skill Cap: Superb
Skill Points Used: 30
Total Available: 30
Fate Points 5
Base Refresh 9 (11)
Adjusted Refresh 5
Skills
Superb (5) Contacts
Great (4) Athletics
Good (3) Burglary, Conviction, Guns
Fair (2) Alertness, Driving, Endurance, Fists
Average (1) Discipline, Deceit, Investigation, Lore
Stunts
Cat-Burglar: You’re a thief with catlike tread; you may use Burglary instead of Stealth for Hiding or Skulking (page 142).
Person of Conviction: Your social presence is tightly rooted in your identity as a person of deep faith. You may use Conviction instead of Presence to determine your social stress capacity (page 137).
Armed Arts: You are practiced with a small number of weapons as part of your martial arts training. Pick two weapons which logically fit in with your training. You may use the Fists skill instead of Weapons when wielding these implements.
Dodge and Strike: On a successful defense with Athletics, you may sacrifice your next action to turn that defense into an immediate and automatically successful attack. Your attacker must be within range of your weapon, and if you’re mounting a full defense (page 199) you do not get the benefit of the +2 bonus when your defense roll converts to an attack roll.
Fast Reload: Provided that you have a supply of ammunition, reloads are rarely an issue. You take no penalty when reloading as a supplemental action (page 213); if you’re in a race to see who reloads first, or anything else having to do with your speed or ability to reload, gain a +1 on the roll
Grandmother (Elsie Myers) Go-to contact for information on monsters as well as a fallback when someone checks on false identities (thinking a Bobby Singer from Supernatural). Elsie is a First Nations woman who is now an old retired hunter who helps out by doing research or providing knowledge of monsters and how to defeat them. (Thinking decent Lore 3, Scholarship 3, Contacts 3)
Background: Where did you come from?
Emily was born to a well off family in Hong Kong while still under British rule. Both her parents worked hard for in Li & Fung. Emily was the youngest of three children. Emily grew up without seeing much of her parents. She did not have to want for much as they would attempt to buy her love. Emily’s Grandfather, Renshu, was the only real positive influence that she had. He came around when he could but was often away on business.
In her teens Emily was sneaking in late in the evening from a party. As she entered the family’s home, she immediately felt that something was off. Her first sight was her older brother sprawled on the floor. She wanted to scream but a large bang in the room made her hold her shock. She quickly ducked into a side room. Several dark shapes move by in the hall. One stopped a moment and peered into the darkness of the room where Emily was not hiding. After several tense moments the shape continued on, departing the home. Continuing on in the house Emily found her sister and parents also dead.
Following her Grandfather’s instructions she fled the home to an arrange location, called him, and waited.
Aspect: I Was Never There
Rising Conflict: What shaped you?
Coming to his grandaughter’s aid. Renshu investigate the scene before the authorities were called. Renshu was not happy with what he found and after having the authorities clearing Emily, whisked her away to Canada.
Once in Canada and in the following years Emily learned what not only her Grandfather, but past generations of the Zhoa family, did… slay monsters. Renshu explained to his granddaughter of the organization that he an many others were associated with, the Venatori Umbrorum over the last several hundred years.
The attack on the family was not only revenge on Renshu, but for what they learned and were about to report of Li & Fung, which had was in the control of the Jade Court of Vampires. They made they mark known and had hopped to cease the family’s monster slaying days.
The next few years while Emily grew up in her new home in Canada she was taught how to defend herself with an array of weapons. She also learned of the many dangers that actually existed. Upon reaching eighteen, she inducted into the Ventario Umbrorum.
Aspect: The Venatori Umbrorum Network
The Story: What was your first adventure?
Story Title: Into the Heart of the Storm
Over the years Emily has built up many contacts both mundane and much more supernatural. Her sources had a scoop for some power First Nations artifacts stolen. She has able to pass the information on to a contact with Monoc Securities. She also received more information a few days after of the shifters that had the artifacts, but could not get in touch with her contact.
Kenshu say this as an opportunity for Emily to make her own decisions, he took her aside at the airport before she departed for New Orleans, and gave her a small book bound in the leather of some strange beastie. Within, was centuries worth of information that the had been passed from generation to generation of monsters and how to effectively hunt and slay, or at the least defeat them.
Emily was off to New Orleans and arrived on one of the last flights just as Hurricane Katrina was to hit the city. Through some contacts she was able to get in touch with a police officer, David Monroe. She was able to give him information that would lean him to the shifters and their dark ritual.
Emily tagged along on her own and was able to help slay the lead alpha was attempting to flee out the back as he let his fellows take on a small force arrayed against them. The small sawed off shotgun proved most valuable. Not waiting for any lime light of her kill, she departed and left the others to gather what was they came for.
Guest Starring: Danny Kaye and David Monroe
Aspect: By the Book
Guest Star: Whose Path Have You Crossed?
Story Title
Whose story was this? Deirdre Harlowe
Who else was in it?
Emily had heard through her contacts that something nasty was going to happen at a local event that had a band by the name of Blood of the Witch playing. The contact did not know exactly what was happening, but knew that the fae were involved.
Arriving she joined the many others listening to the band when all hell broke loose. Her Monoc contact came running through and attacked the bouncers who turned out to be trolls and some redcap attempted to cause some trouble. There was a gun shot and a terrible scream and the nasty little beast was horribly wounded and turned and ran. The chase for Emily was on. She got in her old VW Camper Van colored a modern blackberry pearl. She tailed the beastie to it’s lair and was able to put the creature down, never to harm another mortal.
Aspect: Thrill of the Chase (Hunt)
Guest Star Redux: Who Else’s Path Have You Crossed?
Story Title
Whose story was this? David Monroe
Who else was in it? Danny Kaye
At hearing that several of her contacts were heading into a den of shifters, Emily tagged along in the shadows to watch their backs. Lucky she did as she spotted the alpha shifter in an off room watching a trio taking on his kin. Readying to strike a her new cop friend, David Monroe, Emily let loose and blasted the alpha with two shotgun blasts. The alpha only seemed incapacitated but not out, Emily closed for her first solo kill. Looking at the beast and knowing what he intended, Emily took out one of blades and ended it’s life.
Seeing the others finishing of most of the other shifters Emily took the cue to leave, before she had to answer any questions.
Aspect: Do Not Hunt Alone
Songdragon, I'd appreciate it if you picked a different avatar for Emily. That one reminds me of that creepy guy on the boards who does PbP as a bunch of 12 year old Asian girls with elaborately described clothing. Example. Example #2.
Whenever I see that avatar, I am instantly squicked out.
No worries... changed.
Any advice, critiques, or corrections are welcome.
** spoiler omitted **...
Looks good.
You have a stunt to cover up your Presence of 0; so, all your three defenses are covered. You have two good fighting skills and a stunt to turn your Athletics (dodge) into an attack.
You have ways to participate in investigations and skill of Burglary gives a skill that is not represented in the rest of the group (plus you know plenty of people).
Make sure the people referenced in your background know your connection to them.
I see you have had a connection to Monoc securities.
It might take a bit to work in the Jade Court but I will try to work that angle into the story though likely not this adventure (though I might leave some hints in China town at some point).
Any advice, critiques, or corrections are welcome.Looks good.
You have a stunt to cover up your Presence of 0; so, all your three defenses are covered. You have two good fighting skills and a stunt to turn your Athletics (dodge) into an attack.
You have ways to participate in investigations and skill of Burglary gives a skill that is not represented in the rest of the group (plus you know plenty of people).
Make sure the people referenced in your background know your connection to them.
I see you have had a connection to Monoc securities.
It might take a bit to work in the Jade Court but I will try to work that angle into the story though likely not this adventure (though I might leave some hints in China town at some point).
David Monroe and Deirdre Harlowe where the ones that I was to have contact with my story previously. I will let them know. (Or they will see it here)
Monoc connection was Pernilla. Although, with her high contacts, she may know others. (possible In there...)
No worries. I see the Jade Court as something in her past that will manifest at some point in play. Later is fine with me.
How do you want me to join the others... Walk up sort of thing? Or did you have something in mind...
Is Dr Carding still playing?
I hope so! :)
Just FYI-
My son is sick (Caught a cold, first of the school year, JUST in time for Christmas!) ;P And I think I'm getting it too. (Double ;P)
Also busy with the usual holiday nonsense, making candy, pies, cookies, etc. And have travel planned (IF I don't get sick!) So, I may drop off the radar at any time. Should be back by Jan 3 at the latest.
My prayers to all of those with expectant wives and sick kids,
and MERRY CHRISTMAS to all! :)
Is Dr Carding still playing?
Torolf hasn't posted anywhere since the 4th. I don't think so.
I hope so! :)
Just FYI-
My son is sick (Caught a cold, first of the school year, JUST in time for Christmas!) ;P And I think I'm getting it too. (Double ;P)Also busy with the usual holiday nonsense, making candy, pies, cookies, etc. And have travel planned (IF I don't get sick!) So, I may drop off the radar at any time. Should be back by Jan 3 at the latest.
My prayers to all of those with expectant wives and sick kids,
and MERRY CHRISTMAS to all! :)
Quite understandable with the season and I wish you and yours good health and happiness through the holidays and into the year beyond.
Is Dr Carding still playing?Torolf hasn't posted anywhere since the 4th. I don't think so.
I thought something might be off as he was very active all game long and then suddenly stopped. I was wondering if it was just my game or a general problem.
It sounds like from not posting anywhere that it might be a larger problem. Well, best wishes to him on whatever the issue might be.
Aaaaand HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Yes, I'm back. Barely.
I'll play catch up as quick as I can.
:)
Welcome back and Happy New Years to all!