As for how I got it, the sword, whichever type you ultimately decide on, was a gift from my father prior to my travels to New Stetven. It was the sword he first wielded before his joining into the Swordlords, and as such it is a very sentimental item to him.
Sizing up Kragath "Wouldn't mind going a round or two with ya either"
The alchemist watches Teion's departure, nodding in what he feels may be appropriate places. "Farewell, little well-behaved rodent." he says, waving at Tor.
Moments later, startled into nearly dropping his empty glass at the dwarfs entrance, Ingles eyes narrow reprovingly at the warrior. "Really. You could warn a fellow," he mumbles, trying to gather his composure. By the time Mundin joins them, the half-elf has managed to assemble an uncomfortable smile which he offers the newcomer by way of greeting.
"Ingle Farwin, at your service," he says, as his introduction comes up. "No warrior, I, friend, so no need to offer partaking of a 'round', as you call it."
Gathien examines the dwarf for signs of mockery before responding cheerily (and only slightly skeptically), "Perhaps later, good dwarf, though I warn you that I have limited experience with practice weapons... and besides, I think it would be rude to reward our hosts with violence..." Noticing the half-elf's distaste for the lowbrow conversation, Gathien turns to face him and smiles before adding, "...at least so early in the evening." He then tips his glass slightly toward the alchemist and takes a deep drink.
"Perhaps another time, Ser Ironhand, when there aren't more pressing matters to attend to. As it is I do not think it would be wise to risk injury to anyone with an endeavor to be taken so close at hand."
Ingle gives Gathien a smirk, though it seems somewhat light-hearted. At Kragath's words, he intones, "Ah, saner minds prevail. Perhaps those of us left unchosen at the evenings end can beat one another silly. But in the meantime, lacking proper food service, I believe another sherry is in order." Straining about in his chair, Ingle tries to catch the servants attention.
Gathien: Your fairly certain he was admiring your axe. "Aye, well spoken lad, perhaps another time, when the exercise would do us both well, a small competition, including Lightbringer and any others we deem worthy" Leaning closer to the two he whispers "And more woman to admire our sweaty bodies"
"So, brother Rorgrym where does yer clan call home?"
Oblivious to Ingle's mumbling, at his greeting "Clan IronHand at your service master Farwen.....should you ever reconsider, I'd be happy to share the warriors dance with ye, bloodless of course. "
"Indeed, I think we can all agree that allowing these lands to remain as they are is less than an ideal solution.... Still, I do not think this a pointless discussion, if only to provide us each with insight regarding our possible new companions.
"I concur..."
Before he could finish the statement the doors to the chamber had banged open. Peregrine turned, with a slightly perturbed look on his face, only to find a rather loud dwarf to have entered. Shaking his head slightly he turned back to the table in time to find the elf vacating his seat. One didn't have to be a diviner to see where this was going, he thought blackly. Nodding his farewell to the elf and his creature, he was surprised at the mention of a curse. Evidently he had missed something rather interesting.
When the boisterous dwarf approached Peregrine gave him a polite, if perfunctory, nod as introductions were made before turning his attentions back to the rest of the table. Closing his eyes he took a deep breath, try not to sound like uncle for five minutes, he admonished himself. When he opened the eyes the severity of his expression had abated somewhat. Once more he addressed Gathien.
"As I was saying, I concur that our conversation is not pointless in the least. I fear, that perhaps, I have not explained myself as well as I might. I do not mean to say that force of arms is the only, or even best, way to establish one's rights. Where one can turn to a higher authority, to law and order, it is best he do so, as long as the law has enough teeth to have meaning. However, there is a difference between people and nations, for the latter there is rarely a higher authority to which to turn. And where you cannot rely on others to hold up your rights, you must do so yourself. Where there is no law, one must rely on some other means to establish a precedent, hence all the talk of force of arms. And in the end, no amount of being morally right will have any effect if you do not have some means to enforce it."
"A wise response, Ser Fetch."
"Indeed, Ser Fetch, and I catch your meaning now -- that despite the god's teachings, in the end - for a nation - there is no authority to appeal to in such times -- and without the ability to press their claim, then all a nation can do is curse their fate...regardless of the rightness of the situation."
Gathien cocks his head to the side thoughtfully and adds, "...or, perhaps, recruit adventurers."
"So, brother Rorgrym where does yer clan call home?"
"I do not have a clan. My father lived...out to he south and west. He brought me to Rostland before I could even walk and that has been my only home. If he ever belonged to a clan, he has never spoken of it."
My father says they are honorable and can be trusted to do what they say. And there interest and ours may be intertwined.
2. What is your motivation to reclaim the Stolen Lands?
Hooktongue Slough is my home your interests and mine are linked. My parents want me to see your intentions clearly and this is best done by joining. Also the signs and omens are warning of trouble in all our lands.
(move them if this is a plot problem.)
3. What will your character contribute to the group?
Front line melee fighter grappling foes later druid casting magic (support/buffs mostly). In the kingdom time he will likely be a Royal assassin but could fill High Priest, Marshal, Warden, or General roles.
4. What are your plans for your character mechanically?
The build for seven levels is given in the website above 1 level monk then druid all the way.
5. What are your plans for your character from a story-perspective?
At first he is a message from my parents snake shamen leaders [Father is human. mother an orc. they are married] in a small area of Hooktongue Slough who are looking for allies and so appears the Sworldlords are as well. Sending first born tests the honor and wisdom of the SWordlords and strongly says let's talk we can make a deal. After he comes into his own he has been taught strength(power) is what matters most because without it you can do nothing. he will look for challenges and ways to grow himself and any that can win his friendship.
A large light green skined half orc with light clothing made of what appears to be snake and alligators skins enters. He looks around taking in everything.
He looks at Peregrine Fetch, and says in oddly cultured common, Wise indeed Mr. Fetch. My parents would most agree. So this group appears most unusual, Less humans than I thought there would be.
"Indeed, Ser Fetch, and I catch your meaning now -- that despite the god's teachings, in the end - for a nation - there is no authority to appeal to in such times -- and without the ability to press their claim, then all a nation can do is curse their fate...regardless of the rightness of the situation."
Gathien cocks his head to the side thoughtfully and adds, "...or, perhaps, recruit adventurers."
"I would have to disagree, Gathien, for there is indeed another authority one can appeal to. The Master of the First Vault, God of Law and Civilization, would intervene to protect a civilization that is being wrongly oppressed or assaulted. One such example is when Abadar sent his herald, Lawgiver, to Chesed to protect the nation from tearing itself apart from within when an invading force was prepared to annihilate them. While this is an extreme example, Abadar has other ways of ensuring that civilization prevails over anarchy. As you so accurately put it, sometimes he sees fit to work through ambitious mortals who share his views."
Kragath once again rises, greets the newcomer, introduces himself, and reclaims his seat.
"Fetch you have a keen mind, I'll be grateful to have you on my side if the swordlords choose the two of us." Jaska offers politely. Patting Gathien on the back, he leans close and whispers in halfling"I'm not sure I've seen any who know what it is to be a halfling like you do my friend"
Jaska shifts uncomfortably in his chair as more guests arrived. A boisterous dwarf and an orc blood with a snake fetish now. He waves and introduces himself all the same. He motions for another drink as well, following Ironhand's clumsy lead."Yes friends the louder dwarf has the right idea, Let's see how deep Brevoy's wine cellar runs tonight!" He chuckles as he turns up the cup the servant brings him, but sets it down before it was quite all gone.
"Should you ever reconsider, I'd be happy to share the warriors dance with ye, bloodless of course."
"Bloodless? I'm not sure I could manage that. Interesting concept, though," Ingle says distractedly, still trying to catch the servants attention.
The half-elf finally catches one of the attendants eye, pointing dramatically at his empty sherry glass as he listens to the conversation at the table. Satisfied that his order has been clearly understood, he collapses back into his chair. "My pardon, dear friend, but I seem to still be missing your point. How does this belaboring of the why's and where-for-to's bring any benefit? Is it not enough that we would all see the Stolen Lands in Brevoys possession? For God or country or personal glory, what difference does it make?" The alchemist seems, for the first time, truly irritated. "What knowledge do you hope to gain of me by knowing that it is for country that I pledge my service? Or that it is for his god that the master dwarf pledges his?"
Ingle falls broodily silent for a moment. Then, as he realizes there is yet another newcomer, shakes his head and says, "Begging your pardon, of course. The heat has gotten to me, no doubt."
Nikor grins and says "
No pardon needed of course. But not all are sure that the plans of the Swordlords or even Brevoy are to their benefit. That is why I am here and it is reasonable for someone to want to know if they can count on a future ally. With rumors running wild and the spirits scared and angry these are trying times. " His grin fades and his youth is obvious as he looks unsettled.
I have to admit, I was hoping that I'd see the Witch, Alchemist, Paladin and Dwarf cleric be 4 of the 5-6 that made it myself (with the Cavalier and the halfling barbarian possibly rounding it all out), hence why I withdrew Carni. (Plus I really want to play in a Serpent's Skull PbP before I jump into Kingmaker)
I was saddened to see Teion withdraw as well.
You'll definitely see Carni again someday, hopefully we'll be in the same PbP!
Peregrine regarded the half-orc with a look of mild surprise. He had said parents, as in plural, and in agreement too...interesting.
"I fear you have me at a disadvantage. I do not know your name."
Evan continues to listen as the conversation grows ever more philosophical, and folk both join and leave. I hope these people can explore and fight as well as they can talk. It'll be an easy life if so!
"I would have to disagree, Gathien, for there is indeed another authority one can appeal to. The Master of the First Vault, God of Law and Civilization, would intervene to protect a civilization that is being wrongly oppressed or assaulted. One such example is when Abadar sent his herald, Lawgiver, to Chesed to protect the nation from tearing itself apart from within when an invading force was prepared to annihilate them. While this is an extreme example, Abadar has other ways of ensuring that civilization prevails over anarchy. As you so accurately put it, sometimes he sees fit to work through ambitious mortals who share his views."
"Apologies, Ser Lightbringer, but I have seen little evidence of that protection as my people lay enslaved in Cheliax.... or treated as less than human in most of the rest of the world. While I do not doubt that the gods seek to do what is right, we mortals have wills and power of our own, and from the stories I remember as a child, it is only those who transgress in truly epic ways that attract the wrath of the gods.... and some of those transgressions are being done in the glory of another, opposed, deity. However, you are quite right to point out that the gods work through many agents, both mortal and divine... and as a result, it may be that they do not get the proper credit for actions taken."
Gathien then smiles wickedly at the thought: "Perhaps my parents' escape from Chelish slavery was divinely inspired...as much as it may pain my father to admit such a thing."
Gathien turns serious again, "However, I find that the danger of that premise is that it allows two very.... troubling... trains of thought to follow. The first is that it allows one to assume that the lack of divine intervention means that a particular cause is not just, and therefore nothing need be done. And two, and worse, in my opinion, is that too much faith in the gods setting things right often allows otherwise good people to ignore injustices as something that is beyond them to fix. Now, I do not say anyone who believes the former automatically believes one or both of these conclusions, but the danger exists nonetheless."
Gathien then turns toward the alchemist, "And I hate to disagree with you, but, as I said earlier, knowing why a person does or would do a particular act is more important than knowing that they would do it. To my understanding, the first rule of war is that no plan survives first contact with the enemy -- and so I think it good to get a sense for how one or all of us may react when things change out in the wilds, no? However, no need to worry, we can turn the conversation back to you and your precious bottles in a few moments."
Gathien tries to take another drink from his glass to wet his once-again dry throat and is surprised to find it empty.
"Is this halfling barbarian seriously going to try to debate religion with a harbinger of Abadar's will? This is astonishing! I will let him think he has made a profound point for now, however, as he seems troubled about his own people's plight. But does he truely not see that those who had the true will to escape the bonds of Chelish slavery are the ones who indeed receieved Abadar's protection during their escape?"
Kragath leans back into his seat to make it seem like he is pondering Gathien's words, but all the while continues to observe his companions and listen to their points of view. His left hand falls to the pommel of his longsword, resting it there as he waits for news from their host.
Jonas nod's to acknowledge the half-orc's arrival, but is focused on listening thoughtfully to Gaithien's words. He responds Whatever the gods' roles are in the good and evil done among mortals, it is clear that a man can make a difference, limited though it may be, where he is. Therefore, it is up to men of good conscience and character to act as best they know how, for inactivity is the coward's way, even covered in the gloss of philosophy. That is also why it is imperative that trained and skilled men such as ourselves take a greater part in the change, for the common man does not have the means to effect much change. At least, that is what I believe.
"Greetings, Nikor. Is Brevoy your home?"
Nods as he listens to Jonas. "I agree with you. I have seen people who sit and do nothing and then blame the gods when nothing happens. If you have the opportunity to take action and do nothing, you have only yourself to blame. The common man, as you put it, often lacks opportunity; or is repressed into thinking so."
"Now it is I that must ask for pardon. No I am not from Brevoy. I am Nikor Igorov up from the swamps to the south. Growing up in such a small place I forget that not everyone knows me.
I greet you Mister Lightbringer and Mister Galahad." Nikor looks slightly wide eyed as the size of the crowd in this room hits home.
"Looks like a large warband gathering here, anyone know how many the Swordlords wish to bring south?"
Nikor looks nervous then resolute. Looking at Kragath and Jonas, Nikor says "It is simple. Strength and will are what matters. The spirits help or not as they see fit."
His eyes fall on the servents passing around beverages and one young lass sees the look and nervously brings him a cup of wine. Surprised Nikor takes it, and says formally.
"Thank you, I am Nikor Son of Igor the Exile and Grishna of the Snakeskin Clan."
The lass looks terrified, squeeks and runs off. Nikor puzzled says "I don't understand. Was she trying to court me or not?" He takes a drink and looks again shocked at the unfamilier taste of wine.
"hmm this is good" Nikor resumes his intent looking around obviously taking it all in determinedly but with an air of uncertainty.
** spoiler omitted **
I must be blind.
In regards of crafting with char-gen money, I have no restrictions. If you want to use leftover money to craft Potions or Scrolls, provided you have the appropriate feat to craft them yourself, you are free to do so. If you have enough money to buy potions or scrolls, then by all means.
But no magic weapons at char-gen, even if you somehow find a way to get one.
I admit I am sad that Teion and Carnivyx withdrew - both were strong candidates and one of my favourite reads thus far. C'est la vie.
to Rorgrym "A shame not knowing ones clan, though I'm sure your father had his reasons. "
Hearing the half-orc before he sees him "Haha, the swordlords obviously have heard of me talents and that of our small friends here."
Turning in his chair, Mundin finally realizes who has spoken. His hand quickly drops to the hand axe at his belt and he's half way out of his chair......
Kragath quickly rises and puts a hand on the dwarf's shoulder before he can get to his feet. Taking advantage of the dwarf's lack of footing, Kragath pushes forcefully down, returning the dwarf to his seat.
"As I said before, Mundin, now is not the time for foolish violence! All who are present are here by invitation of the Swordlords, and I, for one, will not sit idly by while senseless brawling takes place amongst their guests!"
Kragath then returns to his seat and keenly observes the Mundin and Nikor's reactions.
Rorgrym quickly stands up mumbling swear words to himself.
"Now, now, we're all friends here; brought for the same purpose. A time for fighting will come all too swiftly I have no doubt."
"Now, now, we're all friends here; brought for the same purpose. A time for fighting will come all too swiftly I have no doubt."
Gathien adds, "Indeed. And we likely have enough foes without having to turn on each other."
"Exactly, Rorgrym. Soon we may be in a situation where we must count on any of the individuals present, and in such a time harboring ill will towards someone based on their ancestry would not be wise. So let us return to civilized conversation, shall we?"
Jonas leans back in his chair with his eyebrows raised and a small smile on his face as the threat of violence looms.
As Mundin "sits" back down, he mumbles quietly "peaceloving....softbellied.......tainted..."
Shaking his head, he addresses his two companions. "Indebted to you lads, your both right of course....still doesn't mean I have to trust him"
In a sinuous move Nikov pivots and seems to almost shrink in size. Warrior of any experiance can see he is fully defensive in a combat mode but has no weapon on him at all yet he is confident and unafraid. Nikor cocks his head to the side looking at the dwarf quizzically and says "You are of the Mountain Men of Stone aren't you? I have never met your kin before. Mother said there might be some of you that had old blood feuds against her and hers.
She was of the Snakeskin Clan before becoming bride to my father. If there is blood debt then when our hosts are done we can meet for payment otherwise I offer my hand in hoped for friendship." He relaxes as the others intervene and extends his hand toward the dwarf.
Standing slowly, aware of all the eyes upon him, Mundin addresses Nikor. "Mundin IronHand, of Clan IronHand, victors over the orc hoards on countless occasions. Ain't never dealt with no Snakeskin before, though i've heard stories mind you. Ya may be ignorant of your kin's trangresses and for that and the kind words of those hear you are spaired me wrath. Be thankful ya never met me an ma kin before this day."
Ingnoring the offered hand, Mundin sits back down.
"While I do not doubt that the gods seek to do what is right..."
The half-elf can't suppress a snort of amusement at this, quickly looking away as if the odd noise had come from somewhere behind him and to the left.
"And I hate to disagree with you, but, as I said earlier, knowing why a person does or would do a particular act is more important than knowing that they would do it. To my understanding, the first rule of war is that no plan survives first contact with the enemy -- and so I think it good to get a sense for how one or all of us may react when things change out in the wilds, no? However, no need to worry, we can turn the conversation back to you and your precious bottles in a few moments."
Ingle looked quizzically at the diminutive barbarian for a moment. "I say. No need to get tetchy, my little fellow." Waving his hand dismissively, he settles back again as he continues, "In any event, I will concede your point, if for no other reason than to put this dreadfulness behind us. Rest assured, when the chips are down, you will find me and my intentions are as steadfast as... as... Well, you get my meaning, I've no doubt."
"The spirits help or not as they see fit."
"Indeed," the alchemist agrees with a slight nod to the newcomer.
"So let us return to civilized conversation, shall we?"
"In order to return one must first have..." His thought was cut short by the return of the attendant, a fresh glass of sherry in her hand. Smiling broadly, Ingle accepts the drink. "Marvelous, marvelous. One might go so far as to say singularly spectacular. Wonderful work you do around here, my dear."
Ingle sits back, watching the interchange between Mundin and Nikor as he sips at his cordial. If he had meant to say anything further, it had slipped his mind entirely.
Nikor withdraws his hand dejectedly and sighs "Does anyone else bear the tragic burden of unfocused anger? I mean no harm to any here."
Nikor sets down his drink and looks around warily.
Kragath pauses at first, then extends his hand to the strange newcomer. "Kragath Lightbringer, and I welcome you to our table. I trust that the Swordlords sent invitations only to individuals they trust in representing their organization honorably. So until proven otherwise, I stand by their judgement."
"Does anyone else bear the tragic burden of unfocused anger?"
Ingle looks expectantly at Gathien.
"Does anyone else bear the tragic burden of unfocused anger?"Ingle looks expectantly at Garieth.