Fair enough. I like it, your less tank commander, more jet fighter. Can do a bit of damage and hard as hell to hit, but if you are hit youre going down lol.
Fair enough. I like it, your less tank commander, more jet fighter. Can do a bit of damage and hard as hell to hit, but if you are hit youre going down lol.
There is an element of that, but then again I once played a Ranger with an uber high Dex and next to no Con, managed to get all the way to 6th level before getting caught in my own entangle spell and butchered by a horde of wights. It was kinda my own fault for charging in, but was really really worth it.
Oops I didn't mean both, I meant to say all. I like your pally also. One quick question though is whats with the 9 con. Aren't you going to be a bit squishy of a general?Nah its all tactics. I plan on making sure quite simply that I never get hit. High armour and dex, as well as rings of protection etc mean that I am covered in either case. After all, in order for an enemy to hurt you, he has to be able to hit you first.
I am pretty sure I am going to come off as rude for pointing this out, but; there is no way you don't take damage. Get AC100 for all the good it will do you, when magic missiles, AoE spells, breath weapons, swarms, etc pretty much all ignore even the best defenses. Negative con modifier is, in my experience, an inevitable sword of Damocles.
I am pretty sure I am going to come off as rude for pointing this out, but; there is no way you don't take damage. Get AC100 for all the good it will do you, when magic missiles, AoE spells, breath weapons, swarms, etc pretty much all ignore even the best defenses. Negative con modifier is, in my experience, an inevitable sword of Damocles.Oops I didn't mean both, I meant to say all. I like your pally also. One quick question though is whats with the 9 con. Aren't you going to be a bit squishy of a general?Nah its all tactics. I plan on making sure quite simply that I never get hit. High armour and dex, as well as rings of protection etc mean that I am covered in either case. After all, in order for an enemy to hurt you, he has to be able to hit you first.
You are right, there is no way to simply never take damage at all. However, I can bolster my defences if I roll poorly for HP by using the favoured class bonus for an extra hitpoint etc to bolster the character. Plus, at the end of the day, I am not particularly comfortable with massively optimising the character. This is the stat line that I ended up making, and I am happy with it.
To clarify, I am not accusing anyone of powergaming or optimising their character perfectly for what is going to be faced. I do tend of try and optimise characters for a particular theme when I am gaming on the tabletop. Here however with a slightly less forced pace (I can write for 30 minutes without distraction if I need to, rather than getting a couple of minutes of face time if playing IRL, then I plan to work more on my characterisation etc than sheer mechanics. Plus, previous experience tells me that it is possible to get a long way by using a character that does have high DEX and lower than average CON, simply by taking some precautions and playing tactically.
Oh and no, you didn't come across as rude at all. Don't worry about it.
Plus, at the end of the day, I am not particularly comfortable with massively optimising the character. This is the stat line that I ended up making, and I am happy with it.
To clarify, I am not accusing anyone of powergaming or optimising their character perfectly for what is going to be faced. I do tend of try and optimise characters for a particular theme when I am gaming on the tabletop. Here however with a slightly less forced pace (I can write for 30 minutes without distraction if I need to, rather than getting a couple of minutes of face time if playing IRL, then I plan to work more on my characterisation etc than sheer mechanics. Plus, previous experience tells me that it is possible to get a long way by using a character that does have high DEX and lower than average CON, simply by taking some precautions and playing tactically.
Oh and no, you didn't come across as rude at all. Don't worry about it.
I "optimize" to the point where I set up a certain mechanical flow for the purpose of the character. Beyond that, I try to visualize the character, and then tailor the stats. Making him middle aged is hardly optimal for str18, which is 13 points and the human +2. That is a huge investment were I could have saved 3 points. Could have sunk the int to 12 and still made a decent alchemist for the levels I intend to take, as I don't do bombs.
But I wanted to invoke the norse-inspired images of ulfen (being Norwegian myself and having grown up with the stories of norse gods), but also have a sharper intellect than most, to show his dualistic nature, and be able to channel my real life mindset into the character without losing immersion or coming off as playing beyond my stats. Which is why I kept wisdom out of the red, as I feel like I am "cheating" if I come off as wise and reflected, and have a negative in the stat that governs it.
And no sane optimizer would favor a longsword without a shield, I think. Nor multiclass into a class that requires another high stat in addition to the "MAD" paladin class. If I were to optimize a paladin, I would be single class, have high-as-possible str/con/cha, and negatives in int and wis. Though... if I wanted to optimize, as the word is used today, I would not play a paladin at all. I would have been a wizard or cleric :P
My wife (the oracle/cleric) has been asking me to make a character for submission. More specifically, a paladin. Since I have played em to death, I made a slightly different approach; meet Haakon of Rostland (character in profile), part helpful teacher, part hedge-apothecary, part warrior of faith and SCIENCE! (Paladin/Alchemist)
I may have added your stats incorrectly, but it looks like you have a 29 point buy. An easy correction, no doubt. I am happy to consider options, though, and am currently sorting through various players.
His character is middle aged, so has the negative to physical stats, and the positive to mental.
so
Str 18 (13 pts +2 for human)
Dex 12 (3 pts)
Con 12 (3 pts)
Int 14 (3 pts)
Wis 10 (-1 pts)
Cha 16 (7 pts)
28 pts total.
We just lost both our martial guys, so feel free. I mean, really.
I'm interested if you would like to post some crunch.
*smiles*
Aye, working on the crunch now. Need to remember how the animal mount works though. Also need to change out one of the traits to Kingmaker and add details of his order. Its a work in progress
Name: Arnor
Race: Elf
Player:
Classes: Cavalier 3
Hit Points: 20
Experience: 5000 / 9000
Alignment: Chaotic Good
Vision: Low-lightSpeed: Walk 30 ft.
Languages: Celestial, Common, Elven, Goblin, Sylvan
Stat Score Mod
STR 14 (+2)
DEX 17 (+3)
CON 9 (-1)
INT 16 (+3)
WIS 14 (+2)
CHA 14 (+2)-------------------------- Skills --------------------------
Skill Total Rnk Stat Msc
Bluff 8 3.0 2 3
Climb 8 3.0 2 3
Diplomacy 10 3.0 2 5
Handle Animal 8 3.0 2 3
Perception 7 3.0 2 2
Ride 10 3.0 3 4
Sense Motive 8 3.0 2 3-------------------------- Feats ---------------------------
Duck and Cover
Your allies assist you in avoiding certain attacks.Following Step
You can repeatedly close the distance when foes try to move away, without impeding your normal movement.Step Up
Armor Proficiency, Heavy
You are skilled at wearing heavy armor.Armor Proficiency, Light
You are skilled at wearing light armor.Armor Proficiency, Medium
You are skilled at wearing medium armor.Martial Weapon Proficiency
You understand how to use your chosen martial weapon in combat.Shield Proficiency
You are trained in how to properly use a shield.Simple Weapon Proficiency...
This is a rather interesting build, and I like him... good for a front-line fighter type. I like what I see so far, and will let you know more soon.
His character is middle aged, so has the negative to physical stats, and the positive to mental.
so
Str 18 (13 pts +2 for human)
Dex 12 (3 pts)
Con 12 (3 pts)
Int 14 (3 pts)
Wis 10 (-1 pts)
Cha 16 (7 pts)28 pts total.
Apologies - he would have used 29 points had he been normal aged, instead of middle aged. I did not notice his age at the time; else that would have changed my math.
Otherwise it would have been -
16 (+2) - 10 points
Dex 2 points
Con 2 points
Int 5 points
Wis 0 points
Cha 10 points
Total - 29 points...
By being middle aged he was able to have a 29 point buy at the cost of 28 points... very interesting. Seems like being middle-aged has advantages... but I am still in the process of making decisions at this time.
I've been waffling back and forth on whether to post, since the concept I have is a bit out there, and may not be suitable (mark that word :) ) for all games.
If it's not too far out, I can complete the crunch...
Bexer - Human Synthesist Summoner - Neutral Good
STR - 12
DEX - 10
CON - 12
INT - 15
WIS - 12
CHA - 19
Human Bonus Feat: Cosmopolitan (Diplomacy, Perception)
Lvl 1 Feat: Martial Weapon Proficiency (Greatsword)
Traits: Militia Veteran, Pioneer, (Trait 3 to be determined)
Skills (as of Lvl1): Handle Animal+8, Linguistics+6, Perception+6, Profession: Soldier+5, Ride+5, Spellcraft+6
Spells (As of Lvl1) 0:Acid Splash, Detect Magic, Light, Mending
1: Rejuvenate Eidolon, Enlarge Person
Eidolon Evolutions: (Base Form Biped-Claws: Includes Arms/Legs/Claws). L1 Evolutions: Imp Natural Armor, Imp STR
STR 18, DEX 12, CON 13
Baron Arturo Bon traveled all across the Inner Sea Region as part of his duties as one of Taldor's ambassadors, shuttled from nation to nation to intervene in various diplomatic crises. His wife Dreana and son Bexerian traveled with him, providing his heir with exposure to a wide range of cultures at a young age.
That all ended in Bexerian's 12th year. During negotiations with the court of the Black Sovereign in Starfall, the Baron's suite was attacked by one of Numeria's Gearsmen. The Baron and Baroness were killed instantly, and Bexerian barely escaped, running in terror from the pursuing Gearsman. His memories of the chase are faint, ending with him falling through a doorway in one of the corridors of Silvermount. There, in a room full of tiny flashing lights, he saw a strange device hanging within a column of light. His last memory was of a voice speaking in a strange language, and then darkness.
When Bexerian awoke, the room was dark but for a fading glow, by which he could see that the device had been implanted in his chest, only a small metal disc and a silvery squiggle showing. Confused, he struck at the device (which a voice in his mind called 'the Cyclo-Heart'). There was a sense of metal encasing him, and again he blacked out, awakening three days and fifty miles later.
Since then, Bexerian (now calling himself Bexer) has been learing to control and work with the strange metal armor that encases him, and speaks in his head in a strange, cold voice, filling his head with things he can't possibly know.
First, he spent some time within Numeria itself, protecting one of the small villages from lawless barbarians and bandits, but after it seemed that the Technic League was hunting him, he headed east to Brevoy, and has been wandering from village to village since then. Having heard that the Swordlords or Restov were seeking persons to explore and tame the Stolen Lands, he traveled there and used his new skills to earn a charter.
Description: Bexer has a wide frame and a serious face, with thick brown hair and deep-set brown eyes. When he has activated the device, he is encased in a strange and baroque suit of armor..
Are you making the Guyver?
I mean... really? Is that a powersuit you have in your chest?
Don't get me wrong, I love the original Guyver animation, and the silly rubber suit monster movie with Mark Hamil, I just... wow.
I've been waffling back and forth on whether to post, since the concept I have is a bit out there, and may not be suitable (mark that word :) ) for all games.
If it's not too far out, I can complete the crunch...
** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **...
I am still mainly looking for a frontline fighter type... however, I think you gave yourself a 26 in numbers... you should have 28 though I could be mistaken. It's happened before... :)
My inspiration is actually pre-guyver From the pen of Jack Kirby
:)
Bexer *is* a front-line fighter....When fused, he's got an 18 STR, AC 15, and 15 functional HP at Lvl 1...it'll go up from there. With a Two Handed Sword and the occasional Enlarge, he can hammer away in combat, but has the INT/CHA to be an effective, well-rounded general when the time comes.
Sorry, transcription error...the DEX was supposed to be 12 :)
Darnit, the first thing I thought of when I clicked the link was Stephen Lynch's "Super Hero" song.
I think it would be kinda cool. :D
His character is middle aged, so has the negative to physical stats, and the positive to mental.
so
Str 18 (13 pts +2 for human)
Dex 12 (3 pts)
Con 12 (3 pts)
Int 14 (3 pts)
Wis 10 (-1 pts)
Cha 16 (7 pts)28 pts total.
Apologies - he would have used 29 points had he been normal aged, instead of middle aged. I did not notice his age at the time; else that would have changed my math.
Otherwise it would have been -
16 (+2) - 10 points
Dex 2 points
Con 2 points
Int 5 points
Wis 0 points
Cha 10 points
Total - 29 points...By being middle aged he was able to have a 29 point buy at the cost of 28 points... very interesting. Seems like being middle-aged has advantages...
If you ever were to design a mystic theurge for example, you would be able to harvest huge bonuses from age. Going with the 28 point buy, and gunning for these stats;
Str 8 (+2 vs +1)
Dex 12 (2 vs 3)
Con 12 (2 vs 3)
Int 18 (10 vs 7) +2 human
Wis 16 (10 vs 7)
Cha 14 (5 vs 3)
Young people pay all 28 right off the bat. Middle aged characters now have 6 points left to further increase both int and wis one more, getting downright amazing stats with 20 int on lv4, and wis18 on lv8. However, if you are doing physical stuff, you are shooting yourself in the foot.
Age is more a character thing than a mechanical benefit (thus the higher strength instead of Cha, which would be "better" mechanically). I enjoy playing older characters, being in my 30s myself. I am contemplating reducing strength to 17 and increase wisdom to 13, even if wisdom is mostly useless for Haakon, and is the quintessential paladin AND alchemist dump stat. Wisdom comes with age and all that.
Well, my mama raised me to be one tough cookie, so I'll try applying to this game again (and specially because I keep staring with envy at the massive amount of posts in the IC thread).
I'll offer up two versions of the character; it's up to the DM and the players to point the one most suited to the group's roleplay style and backstory.
Born a stablehand's son, Bronwyn grew up among the priceless horses of his lord, King Rogarvia. He had learned tales about fighters, swordlords and fencers, knights and dragons, and dreamt about them while scrubbing horses and moping up. He would probably be still cleaning stables if it weren't for the ambush.
The King and his retinue were hunting in the Gronzi forest when a small band of evil fairies (quicklings and redcaps). During the short fight the king's stallion was severely wounded, and nearly ran away from the battle. The stableman's words kept the horse in the battle, and his expertise was the only thing capable of healing the horde properly after the battle (any other horseman would probably have to sacrifice the horse).
The King offered the lowly stableman anything he wanted; he only replied "I have a clean cozy home, a strong son and a woman who still loves me despite it all. What else could a man want if not that his son has an even better life than mine?". The king laughed at the man's simple mind and offered him a bag of gold "To pay for your son's service. He will be my squire from now on, to serve me and obey me, and perhaps be rewarded if he deserves".
And so his life took a strange turn. He had new clothes, a small room the size of his house next to the king's. During the day he served the king, tasted his meals for poisons, checked his gear and tended to his horses. At the nights he wasn't watching for the king's security, he trained with the household knights. He would wake sore and bruised, but he always kept himself going on, knowing his father had high hopes for him.
In the beginning it was heaven. Training with the fabled knights and swordmen he had only heard about and attending the king's court (albeit only as a watcher and messenger) was beyond his highest dreams, and it looked like nothing could ever stand in his way. It wasn't a single thing that shattered that dream.
There were lots of signs, signs he didn't notice or plainly ignored because he was so fascinated by his new life. Strange letters in the middle of the night. Weird requests, infrequent comings-and-goings. Bronwyn never questioned his king's orders; after all, he was just a simple-minded stableman's son, not fit to understand the workings of a king's mind. But then they got worse.
First there was the guardsman. He failed to open the gates quickly enough for the king late in the night. Bron understood, after all any minute the king's out in the open is a minute of peril for the entire kingdom. The guardsman was whipped in front of his colleagues, twenty times. Then there was the fletcher. The king's arrows weren't properly feathered, and so he missed a shot during a hunt. The man ended up with ten broken fingers. The late night visits, the questionable companies; Bron was always close to the king, but he knew that if he needed to know something, he would be told.
But then there was the cook. He overcooked a wild goose the king had hunted, and got burned with the cauldron of hot soup. Thankfully the king hadn't ordered Bron to do it; to this day he doesn't know if he could have carried that order.
And there was the cleaning lady. Ilya was her name and she had hair the color of fresh wheat, though you wouldn't know for she always kept it tightly under cover. Bron fancied her and they traded quite a few smiles and at least one surprised kiss by the well. One night she left the king's room, sobbing. The next morning he could see the marks; red and purple they were, here deep and there shallow, like scratches. He couldn't make her tell him what had happened, and his simple mind avoided making the obvious conclusion.
A couple months later, her belly starts to show. Nobody knows who the father is, and Ilya isn't telling. But the word spreads, and one cold autumn night he was called to the king's room. "Here they are. Your spurs. You can choose any horse in the stable's aside from mine. You will be assigned a suit of full plate armor, sword and lance. From this day forward you are no longer my squire, but a full-fledged knight under my command." For a single perfect moment everything was forgotten, everything was forgiven. "Do you so swear to serve and obey me and my blood, to protect us, uphold my honor and lead men in my name?"
"I do, sir."
"Then rise, Sir Bronwyn Maximov!"
But then came the order. His first task as a knight was to "dispatch" of a "problem concerning the crown". Apparently, the king doesn't want to sully his line and honor by fathering a bastard. Sir Bronwyn left that room sweating although out there the first snowflake was dancing through the winds.
The next morning he had been brought to the king's chambers. Words were said, curses were shout, but in the end the king just asked: "Why did you do this, knowing full well the responsability for your actions?"
"I swore to protect your blood, sir, and I had reasons to feel your blood was in peril last night."
"You also swore to OBEY!"
"And that I did, my liege. I dispatched of the problem; neither the girl nor the baby in her belly will trouble you anymore."
"YOU LET THEM GO!"
"Only under an oath to leave this land and never come back, and never to rise arms against the crown."
"You gave them gold!"
"I would be unfit to my station as a knight to send a lone girl out in the snows without any assistance."
"YOU SWORE AN OATH!"
"That I did. To protect your honor, sir, against any and all threats, including yourself."
That was the final blow. He was stripped bare and his back was reduced to a bloody ruin. He promised himself he wouldn't scream, but that promise he couldn't keep.
---
A light in the darkness. He tried to talk, but found he had forgotten the words, or they were merely slipping from his parched mouth. How long had it been in the dungeons? He couldn't tell time.
"What have we here?"
A couple days later, he found out the world had completely changed while he was in the dungeons. His king and all his line, vanished in a single night. Months of uncertainty and searching for the heir. A different blood, a different king was now seated on the Dragonscale Throne. And he was curious about the starving knight in his dungeon.
He was offered a choice: repent and recognize the new king or get back to his cell. There were hard choices in his life, and this wasn't one. He was nursed back to health while this new king held courts, summoning all lords to come and swear by his name. Finally, he was offered another, harder, choice: Swear fealty and service to King Noleski Surtova, or leave his land. He had spent a couple of weeks observing this Surtova, and found in him many of the traces and hints of his previous king. And so when he voiced his choice, he knew he had little time to make his escape, for this other king wouldn't suffer opposition to live. So he ran, and rode away from his realm, looking for a purpose and, maybe, redemption.
Will detail if asked upon.
Sir Bronwyn Maximov
Human Cavalier (Order of the Lion) 3 LG
Str 18, Dex 13, Con 15, Int 12, Wis 11, Cha 14
Trained Skills Diplomacy, Handle Animal, Knowledge (local), Knowledge (nature), Knowledge (nobility), Ride, Sense Motive
Feats Exotic Weapon Proficiency (bastard sword), Mounted Combat, Precise Strike (tactician bonus feat)
Traits Courageous, Natural-born Leader, Pioneer (+1 Knowledge (nature))
Bron is a tall, slender man with wheat-blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. Although he strikes an imposing figure mounted on his warhorse clad in armor, his humble origins often rise out in open laughter and enjoyment of the simple things in life. He has lived a lot for his years, and tries to measure up anyone he meets, looking for subtle signs of violence or excess pride. To anyone not displaying those he extends his friendship, often loudly. To those that extend theirs back, he gives it all.
Yay Rune's Cav! I have remembered you concept fondly since I applied. Good Luck!
So make sure to check out this little twist I cooked:
Derik of Restov was a dedicated con-man and highway robber. Born of miserable station (his mother was a tavern girl that lay with travellers, his father unknown among them) he learned early to talk his way out of situations. Using his words and guile he often tricked and conned his living, using the shady coins to pay for simple luxuries. Years spent in taverns and inns, coupled with his personal magnetism, enabled him to learn a magic trick or two with travelling magicians. That then offered him bigger and better schemes. He would find himself a position in travelling caravans and then distract them so his associates could rob them all. That went well, until the day it did not.
Their paths crossed in Restov, the southernmost frontier city of Brevoy. Having failed to ingratiate himself with the elderly knight, Derik had to improvisate. Disguising himself as a peasant by the road, claiming to have been robbed, he convinced the knight to wait and listen to him (all the while his band was circling on him). And then it went all to hell.
They announced the robbery, but the stubborn old fool wouldn't accept it. There were eight of them, all with swords and weapons, and the old man drew his steel, shouting. In the blink of an eye, one was dead, another was missing his right hand and a third a lung. Then they all fell down on him. Derik panicked and, using his blade for the first time against a person, struck him from behind, below his armpit.
No one was supposed to die, and a knight as important as that would surely be missed. They split the knight's ample reserves of gold, but Derik had the dubious honor of receiving his horse, arms and armor (quite valuable, but extremely hard to dispose of). They went to Restov to spend their blood money, but one of them talked too much while drunk and Derik had to wake to the sound of guards coming to his bedchamber. They were being led by a bruised bandit, the one Derik always thought was his only true friend. He ran, hid, and finally rode the dead knight's horse away from Restov, where his head has a price.
Now he's on the run, mounted on a stolen horse, using looted armor and carrying a strange charter issued by the city of Restov. Disguised as an honorable knight (the supposed son of sir Bronwyn Maximov), he's looking for any way out of his predicament. And praying silently his disguise holds and it all doesn't go down to hell again.
"Sir" Bronwyn Maximov
Human Bard 1/Cavalier 2 CG
Str 16, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 12, Wis 9, Cha 18 (racial bonus)
Trained Skills Bluff, Diplomacy, Disguise, Handle Animal, Perception, Perform (oratory), Sense Motive, Stealth, Ride.
Feats Antagonize, Arcane Strike (Arcane Duelist bonus feat), Exotic Weapon Proficiency (bastard sword), Mounted Combat
Traits Brigand, Natural-Born Leader, +1.
Will probably go for single-classed Cavalier after this, or maybe the Battle Herald prestige class if it's appropriate.
"Sir Bronwyn" is a slender handsome man with shoulder-lenght blonde hair (a trait her mother claims comes from his father) and easy smile. Clad in chainmail and carrying a stolen sword, he looks very much the part of a noble knight, if it were not for appreciation of the finer things in life and raucous laughter. That is somehow compensated with his boisterous nature and personal magnetism (actually he lies really well and manages to believe his lies).
He is looking for a place to hide for some time, and, more deeply, for a chance to change his ways. But is it by pretending to be someone else that he's going to build a better life? Or is it by becoming that person? Or, even more crazily, by revealing the truth and atoning for his deeds?
Sorry for the rough draft; it's 4 AM in here and I just wanted to post in this thread before going to sleep. I will elaborate further (be it in backstory on crunch) upon any requests. Hermia, you have an insightful pair of eyes and matching grey matter and I would greatly appreciate your feedback.
I'm kinda digging the redemption vibe. We are in need of strong allies committed to doing good.
Really, though, redemption is something you have to actively seek. It's a good angle for a character, but just sitting there stewing and brooding about the poor man you killed is not going to get you there. Sense motive checks are not precognition, and lying about being a murderer and a thief to the party is not going to make you any friends.
That said, my gal is recently devoted to Erastil, and is more than a mite chaotic herself and would help out someone who sought her aide. She's... actually really, really looking for someone to need her help.
Both concepts are very much troubled guys trying to do some good, only if one is doing that for the goodness of his soul and the other is doing this because of guilt and maybe a desire to repent.
Anyhow, I cooked up that second version after something you said in the other thread made me think. This guy had too little conflict, so I tried making a different version of the story and that's the result. What do you think about that?
I think conflict is sometimes overrated. It seemed to me the original character had his own with what was his duty to his lord, and now he has to find his own way without that lord to serve.
As above, new redemption seeker is going to be tricky. You have to actively seek it. Lying to the party isn't going to earn you any friends, although... if you were to hook up with the cleric, she likely would understand and try to guide you through it, as she's been doing some fibbing of her own. :P
The idea is not about lying and cheating for its own sake, it's more of a "if you tell this lie many times, maybe it actually becomes true". His secret would probably last not so long a time, and that point would be a really interesting roleplay opportunity for a group as a whole.
I'm fine either way, actually ;)
I'm heading to bed, thanks for the input, Hermia; will check the thread first thing this morning.
I love love love the cavalier! That one would definitely get my vote between the two of them. The whole protecting his king from himself ideal is really fun.
I love love love the cavalier! That one would definitely get my vote between the two of them. The whole protecting his king from himself ideal is really fun.
Really? I'm digging the battle herald concept. And Hermia really needs someone to start paying attention to her in game and validating her existence in the party as something other than a healbot at this point.
I love love love the cavalier! That one would definitely get my vote between the two of them. The whole protecting his king from himself ideal is really fun.Really? I'm digging the battle herald concept. And Hermia really needs someone to start paying attention to her in game and validating her existence in the party as something other than a healbot at this point.
Hence a strong silent and slightly troubled type who will inevitably spend a lot of time talking to all members of the party, spending healing where it is possible, protecting the members of the team so that less healing is needed and so on. Not to mention seeing just how the Stolen Lands might be settled once and for all.
Hey, don't mistake me, I'm not looking a gift paladin in the mouth. I've been trying, but the way my character speaks seems to go over most heads, and she's got a sense of herself that doesn't allow for her to dial it down. And as written, she's not supposed to be a social character. She's not anti social, either, but I've been having her strain herself on account of the group.
Hey, don't mistake me, I'm not looking a gift paladin in the mouth. I've been trying, but the way my character speaks seems to go over most heads, and she's got a sense of herself that doesn't allow for her to dial it down. And as written, she's not supposed to be a social character. She's not anti social, either, but I've been having her strain herself on account of the group.
So she is the kind of person that will speak too if spoken, but other than that more or less just tried to get on with the job at hand? Is that about right?
Absolutely. Right after my introduction, and I mean, the very night after this group of heroes rescued her from being hog tied in a corner of this dank bandit shack, the group had a meltdown over what their plans from that point on should be. It would be a lot to go through, but she's been struggling to pull the group together and to be good for weeks now, and she's starting to recognize that it would just be more efficient just to do good. If that means giving up the social aspect to talk to the NPC that has the info she needs alone, so be it.
Absolutely. Right after my introduction, and I mean, the very night after this group of heroes rescued her from being hog tied in a corner of this dank bandit shack, the group had a meltdown over what their plans from that point on should be. It would be a lot to go through, but she's been struggling to pull the group together and to be good for weeks now, and she's starting to recognize that it would just be more efficient just to do good. If that means giving up the social aspect to talk to the NPC that has the info she needs alone, so be it.
Sounds like my kind of party member.
Come, let me join you and let us settle these lands together so that all those who find themselves in need of shelter from the governments of Brevoy and Restov shall have such a sanctuary. Let us claim these lands from the depredations of bandits and all of those who would persecute and oppress and exploit such peoples. Our charter permits us to explore and make safe this area, so let us continue in that quest and then work out the finer details later. What say you?
First and foremost we are looking for a frontline fighter I like the battle herald but I like the Cavalier more and I can see exactly how he would fit into the group and pull it together in a more cohesive way. Plus we are kind of on a premium of reformed bandits lol. I think a former knight of Restov looking to start a new and better kingdom would fit really well. Just my 2 coppers but there it is. :)
Thanks Alaric, your opinion is quite appreciated. The battle herald is an interesting prestige class, but seeing as the party needs more of a frontline fighter, I would go with Cavalier levels all the way. That first-level bard would help with Inspire Courage and some cool motivational abilities like fascinate and Rallying Cry and, of course, social skills.
Sounds like a fun group, let's see what the future holds!
Any ideas on when you'll be closing the submissions, Dain?
Besides there is only room for one truly beautiful male in this group and that's me dammit!! lol jk It really is a great group though and Dain is one of the best DM's ive ever gamed with but don't tell him I said that...his ego is big enough as it is lol. ;-)
Did this thing;
Character Survey
Where was your character born?
Haakon is not quite sure, but assumes it is somewhere in Rostland.
Who raised him?
His mother Annika, a kindly alchemist with a modest shop in a sleepy hamlet outside Restov. His ulfen father was in and out of his life, earning his keep as a mercenary.
What was happening in the region when your character was growing up?
Minor strife with the humanoids from the south. The events leading up to the campaign, what with it being literally within a day's ride.
Does your character have any relatives?
A few half-brothers. His father was hardly concerned with being careful when bedding women of ill repute between skirmishes.
Motivation
What are your character’s immediate goals? What would he like to do in the coming year?
To make a mark on the world, reaffirm his link to the goddess, and find similar-minded people to help him explore the Stolen Lands, where he hopes he can start his own town.
What are his long-term goals?
Come into a position of advisor of someone who have the power to change things for the better. While Haakon himself likely would make a fine leader, he mostly prefers to guide others, being a supportive rather than dominant personality.
What type of person would be his ideal mate?
Someone unassuming, yet kind and patient. Someone who could share his pedagogue mindset, like a school-teacher or a nurse.
Who is his patron deity? Is he a devout worshiper?
A personal interpretation of an amalgam of the dogmas of Iomedae and Erastil. He believes in the ideals of Erastil, but the methods of Iomedae. He follows the dogma mostly, but refuses to blind himself.
Is he a devout member of any nonreligious cause?
Depends on what you define as nonreligious. He enjoys building stuff for the impoverished, and does not harp on about faith when he does.
Is there any race, creed, alignment, religion or the like against which he is strongly prejudiced?
Most evil religions are the bane of all things good and decent, and should be stopped. Undead should be destroyed no matter what, and you NEVER listen to fiends. Darkland races are suspect, as are the evil humanoids who cater exclusively to evil gods. He is not prejudiced against "player races" as you need all the allies you can get to stand against evil.
What is his greatest fear?
To not have a purpose. To not be able to help others.
What is the one task he absolutely refuses to do?
Oh, there is a whole lot of things in that regard. Go see the code of conduct for paladins. Beyond that, he would never be silent in the face of injustice.
Idiosyncrasies
What is your character’s motto or favorite saying?
Only a weak man fears a burden.
What is his favorite color?
Red. The color of dawns and new beginnings, the color of the blood that keeps us going, and the color of the passion that fuels our souls.
Describe what he would wear if money were no object?
Probably nothing beyond what he already wears. Vanity is not a good thing.
What is his favorite food? Drink?
Anything hearty, favoring meat and stout ales. Not particularly fond of spirits.
What is his favorite animal?
Horses. He likes to ride. Then dogs.
What habits of his friends annoy his most?
Slandering and gossip. Attacking a person's character without just cause is heinous.
Traits:
(rank each trait from 1 to 10)
Courtesy 9
Valor 10
Self-sacrifice 9
Generosity 9
Sobriety 8
Calm temper 7
Optimism 10
Curiosity 9
Forgiveness 9
Cheerfulness 8
Patience 7
Honesty 10
Helpfulness 10
Loyalty 9
Miscellaneous
What well-known media figure from sports, movies or politics most closely resembles your character?
Obi-Wan Kenobi meets Dan Carlin, with a sprinkle of Penn Gillette
What would be his theme song?
Manowar - Courage
If his friends were to write his epitaph, what would it be?
His heart and spirit will live with us
What would be his job in modern society?
Social worker or school teacher
Introduction Questions
Do you have any nicknames, street names, titles, or aliases?
"Red" due to his cloak and dawn-blond hair, "Uncle" by the kids at the orphanage he helped build, "Deviant" by those who disapprove of his alchemy.
What is your full birth name?
Being the illicit son of an ulfen mercenary and a local hedge chemist, he is "just Haakon".
Where do you live?
Last address was Restov. A small house he built himself over the years, that doubles as a soup kitchen for those who brave his cooking.
Why do you live there?
He was mostly happy with his low-key spreading of goodness and championing the weakest of Rostland. It is an unassuming place where merit is more than title.
What is your citizenship status?
Legal citizen of Restov.
What is your most obvious blessing or strength?
The conviction to do what is needed, however he needs to do it.
What is your most obvious flaw or weakness?
Being a paladin? Also, he will do anything to protect children.
Was there any event or cause to cause these weaknesses?
Over the course of his life, his personal take on the code, ethics and morals have made him this way. He lacked a predictable father figure, and decided to be a better man himself.
Physical Traits
What is your general body type, frame, bone structure, and poise?
He is a mesomorph with a bit of chub, as any sane northlander, evoking more a "strongman" build than a "bodybuilder" image. He has good posture, as the church teaches.
What is your skin colour?
Fair, usually tan during summer, as he works a lot on carpentry and goes hunting and fishing a lot.
What is your hair colour?
Reddish blonde
What is your hairstyle?
Necklong and wavy, the front braided to the sides and joined at the back
Do you have any facial hair?
Yes. I have a well-groomed 1/2-inch beard
What is your eye colour?
Steel blue
Does it change?
..... what?
How attractive are you?
Depends on the onlooker. If you like "bear" type men, then gods yes, I am hot stuff. If you like the younger effeminate men, then nooooo...
What is your most distinguishing feature?
A very infectious laugh
Do you have any scars, tattoos, or birthmarks?
His hands have LOTS of scars and burns, mostly from working and from mixing alchemical compounds. He has a tattoo of Iomedae's holy symbol on his right arm, and a stylized viking-style version of Erastil's on his chest by his heart.
What is your handedness (left/right)?
Right
Do you resemble some currently known person?
Not really
Do you wear a uniform?
When he was working with the militia, he would wear a tabard. And when acting on behalf of the goddess, he at least TRIES to wear red and plate. Otherwise, no.
What kind of clothing do you wear?
Functional ones, favoring furs, reds and pockets. He is never seen without his belt & bandoleer where he carries all manner of tools and alchemical supplies.
What is your clothing's style or level of sophistication?
He moves with two rather different spheres of inspiration, his paladin attire being every bit as inspiring and crisp as Iomedae wills her ilk to be. But when not armored and ready to do battle, he wears functional clothes that cements him as rather "non-sophisticated"
What sort of vocal tone do you have?
BRIAN BLESSED!
Do you get sick? Maybe you catch the flu twice a year and that's it? Or maybe you have a weak immune system and catch anything that goes around?
Being of strong health and persuasions that bolsters the physical body, he fairly rarely get sick. One more level, and it is a thing of the past.
History[i]
Where is your homeland?
Rostland, the southern reaches of Brevoy.
What are its people like?
Decent hardworking sorts for the most part. Reference the Kingmaker players guide.
Are you aware of its history?
Not terribly concerned with history in general, so not much of it, no.
Are you patriotic or a social outcast?
Depends. I strongly believe in a solid ruling caste. But also demand they strive to deserve their lot. Leaders are the servants to all.
What are your opinions of home?
It's nice enough. Not too mired in big city plights, nor so remote that you have to catch you dinner every day. A slightly harsh existence tempers hearts.
Did you witness any historical events?
No.
Are your real reasons for becoming an adventurer different from what you tell others?
No, that would be a lie. Well, there IS the nagging feeling that he needs to make something of himself. Kind of a "midlife crisis". But that goes more under drive than motive.
How do you feel about other races?
Elves are odd and somewhat disconnected, and hard to relate to as easily. Dwarves are the salt of the earth, and usually quite admirable once you get past the gruff exterior. The small races both display quite remarkable spirits, and are hard to dislike. Half-orcs get a chance to prove they favor the human parent, as no half-breed makes the choice to be born as such.
Were there any traumatic experiences in your early years (death of a family member, abandonment, orphaned at an early age, etc.)?
His dad was rarely around, often violent, and had no parenting skills. Haakon grumbled past that in his teens, and made the trauma into a strength in his 20s. His mother died of sickness at an age of 61 in his early 30s, he buried her and visit the grave every year on his birthday. Being a proper adult, he is not angst-ridden nor colored by the natural order of things.
Did you have any childhood friends?
Lots. Haakon always had an agreeable demeanour.
Are you still close to them or have you grown apart?
Close to some, but most have settled down and have families of their own now.
Which toys from your childhood have you kept?
None. They were all given to children when he came of age.
What conflicts might arise from your past?
Have "meddled" in a lot of people's lives. Protected people hunted by bandits and thieves. Insulted useless lordlings and aristocrats who do not strive to deserve their titles.
Do you have any sort of criminal record?
Got smacked with a "tax evasion" charge after I paid a corrupt politician a single copper, telling him "it is all he deserves". And a few cases of "harbouring criminals" when I have protected starving urchins that have stolen bread.
[i]Family
Who were your parents?
Ragnar, mercenary ulfen warrior, and Annika, local Restov hedge-chemist.
Were you raised by them?
The mother, yes. Father came around from time to time to get potions, drop off money and whatnot.
What did your parents and/or foster parents do for a living?
Mercenary and apothecary.
What was their standing in the community?
Rather low. Father was an no-name mercenary, and mother was a peddler that "competed" with the church.
Did your family stay in one area or move around a lot?
Mother stayed, father went all over the north, wherever he found someone willing to pay for his blade.
How did you get along with your parents?
Well enough with mother. Not so well with father.
How would your parents describe you?
Mother was quite proud of me, and told me such on her deathbed. Father would approve of my combat prowess, but likely not my convictions.
Are any or all of your family still alive?
Mother is dead. Father never responded to the letter with said news, and was not seen again.
Personality/Beliefs
Do you, or did you, have any role models?
Plenty of them. A lot of the Iomedea paladins. Boris, a local builder, and a handful of living and dead adventurer types. Inspiration is important to the faith of Iomedae.
Do you have any great rational or irrational fears or phobias?
Midlife crisis stuff
What, if anything, would it take for you to be able to overcome this?
Getting stuff done, affirm his ability.
How do you react when this fear manifests itself?
Gets impatient and frustrated.
Are you willing to discuss, or even admit to, the situation?
If approached in a respectful manner.
What are your attitudes regarding material wealth?
Means to an end.
Are you miserly with your share of the wealth, or do you spend it freely?
I refuse to waste money, but give my last copper to feed a starving child.
Are you greedy or generous?
Generosity defines me.
Do you see wealth as a mark of success, or just as a means to an end?
Latter one.
How do you generally treat others?
Very well. I can be a bit blunt in rightful criticism though, as it is more important that the message comes through than protecting their feelings.
Do you trust easily (perhaps too easily) or not?
I give most people the benefit of the doubt, feeling that prejudice is rather bad.
Are you introverted (shy and withdrawn) or extroverted (outgoing)?
Extroverted
Are you a humble soul or blusteringly proud?
Somewhere in between, favoring humble.
Do you act differently than you feel (concealing your true thoughts)?
Exceedingly rare.
What is your favourite type of animal?
Didn't we do this one already?
Is there anything that enrages you?
Excessive greed, waste, slander and child abuse are his four primary "buttons"
Do you enjoy "roughing it", or do you prefer your creature comforts?
If there is meat over the fire, I can rough it. If I am reduced to eating berries and roots, drinking stagnant water, and sleeping on rocks, I will soon miss comforts.
What would you do if something were stolen from you?
Try to get it back and figure out why it was stolen, and punish/guide/help, depending on the reason given, and the outcome of "detect evil"
What would you do if you were badly insulted publicly?
Laugh and pity the fool.
What do you consider to be the worst crime someone could commit and why?
Child abuse. Hurting someone so defenceless is heinousness of the highest order.
Do you support the current government of your homeland?
No, they are self-entitled twats that squabble over nothing.
What form of government do you believe is the best (democracy, monarchy, anarchy, aristocratic rule, oligarchy, matriarchy) and why?
Monarchy if done right. If not, then oligarchy if done right. Otherwise democracy. A single goodly ruler who wields power properly is always preferable to squabbling of many vying for power.
Have you ever been persecuted for your political stance?
Gotten into a couple of brawls with loyalist retainers, but nothing more. Usually able to talk sense into people, and Brevoy is hardly fascist.
Do you have any unusual or nervous mannerisms, such as when talking, thinking, afraid, under stress, or when embarrassed?
Drumming the length of the sword's pommel when frustrated or impatient. Strokes beard when contemplating. Speaks in a rather olden fashion when riled or angry.
What is your most treasured possession?
My sword. It is the only thing my father ever gave me, after a successful campaign, it is a sign of passage and achievement used in my aldori training, and the favored weapon of my goddess.
Do you have a good luck charm?
A carpenters hammer I got from my time as an apprentice before I became a paladin.
Do you prefer to tear down or build up?
Build up. No question whatsoever.
Are you deliberate or spontaneous?
A little of both, favoring the first.
Do you prefer the town or the country?
Town, as community is something that stands close to my heart.
If made to decide, would you rather be deaf or blind? Why?
Deaf. Without my sight, I could not contribute much in my professions.
Describe your worst nightmares.
Finding out that a leader I have served, and helped get to power is a horrible person.
Well that was a handful
That's actually perfect. My betrothed in game is an alchemist in a village outside of Restov. Perhaps they either knew each other or my betrothed apprenticed under her or something. Would be a great tie in.
Thanks Alaric, your opinion is quite appreciated. The battle herald is an interesting prestige class, but seeing as the party needs more of a frontline fighter, I would go with Cavalier levels all the way. That first-level bard would help with Inspire Courage and some cool motivational abilities like fascinate and Rallying Cry and, of course, social skills.
Sounds like a fun group, let's see what the future holds!
Any ideas on when you'll be closing the submissions, Dain?
Rune, please send me an email adress, so that I can contact you directly. Thank you! I have not made any hard decisions, but I think that an interview at this time would be best; and I have you in the forefront of my choices, currently, as you have expressed ongoing interest in this campaign for over a month. Further; I have not closed the posts yet, but will make my final decisions soon, and am currently still interviewing.
No problem sir! o>
ninosim at gmail dot com
Absolutely. Right after my introduction, and I mean, the very night after this group of heroes rescued her from being hog tied in a corner of this dank bandit shack, the group had a meltdown over what their plans from that point on should be. It would be a lot to go through, but she's been struggling to pull the group together and to be good for weeks now, and she's starting to recognize that it would just be more efficient just to do good. If that means giving up the social aspect to talk to the NPC that has the info she needs alone, so be it.Sounds like my kind of party member.
Come, let me join you and let us settle these lands together so that all those who find themselves in need of shelter from the governments of Brevoy and Restov shall have such a sanctuary. Let us claim these lands from the depredations of bandits and all of those who would persecute and oppress and exploit such peoples. Our charter permits us to explore and make safe this area, so let us continue in that quest and then work out the finer details later. What say you?
You interested in swapping out for a cleric, instead? Seems we had a player decide to quit... So it looks like we need a cleric.
You interested in swapping out for a cleric, instead? Seems we had a player decide to quit... So it looks like we need a cleric.Absolutely. Right after my introduction, and I mean, the very night after this group of heroes rescued her from being hog tied in a corner of this dank bandit shack, the group had a meltdown over what their plans from that point on should be. It would be a lot to go through, but she's been struggling to pull the group together and to be good for weeks now, and she's starting to recognize that it would just be more efficient just to do good. If that means giving up the social aspect to talk to the NPC that has the info she needs alone, so be it.Sounds like my kind of party member.
Come, let me join you and let us settle these lands together so that all those who find themselves in need of shelter from the governments of Brevoy and Restov shall have such a sanctuary. Let us claim these lands from the depredations of bandits and all of those who would persecute and oppress and exploit such peoples. Our charter permits us to explore and make safe this area, so let us continue in that quest and then work out the finer details later. What say you?
I could possibly play a cleric, healing and perhaps travel domain if that is what the party needs. Sorry to take so long getting back to you
is this still open?
From what I can tell, Sir Bronwen (Rune) was chosen, though there was never a 'recruitment closed' post
okay. plz let me know so i can submit a pc. thx
Recruitment is still open; though now we need a cleric, and soon. If you can get a cleric up by this Monday (Eastern Standard) or sooner, I think we can make it work.
That said... toss up submissions. Jetsam, so got your stats done? if anoyone else is interested, please let me know.
I warn all involved, though; we have an average of 6 players (5 + 1 GM) at a given time. In 11 weeks we've knocked out over 4,200 posts. That's a little more then 50 posts a day on average, with 5-6 players each person is generally tossing up at least ten posts a day (give or take). The posts aren't "one-liners" you pen from your cell phone, they're long, lengthy, detail oriented, plot driven campaign hooks...
short answer; this isn't for people overwhelmed by writing.
My profuse apologies for not replying sooner with a stat line and such like for the cleric character. I had assumed that the lack of response from yourself about whether such a cleric would be suitable in the campaign was a signal of disinterest in the character or that perhaps the place had already been filled.
I will work on said character in the next day or two and post a avatar and profile on here for your viewing pleasure.
Hope to hear from you again soon.
Adam
thx for posting activities stats. sounds like the game is not for me: feels like a classroom with overwhelming students-to-prof ratio ;-D
i like it a bit more intimate, so i am retracting my candidacy. thx and have fun!
This is Jestem
I would like to submit this Character and also my previous Paladin for inspection. I haven't quite decided on character fluff just yet, but it's in the pipeline. Was not sure what budget to apply, so for the Cleric I took 1000 gold and worked around that for the moment.
Both characters will be thick in the fight, frontline or alternate frontline fighters, as the brief asked for.
Let me know what you think.
Adam