Men of Crimson, Men of Gold {Ludus Palahenus} [Private]

[Erasmas]

This is a Private thread for Rizban, for the gladiator management game. If you are not Rizban... please leave this thread!

[Rizban]

StatisticsGold - 3,188.17

{table=head]Item|Number|Upkeep
Family |
1 |
25 |
Staff and House Slaves |
4 |
60 |
Gladiators |
7 |
70 |
Animals |
1 |
10 |
| |
Total Upkeep | |
155 |
[/table]Family, Staff, and House Slaves Name: Armedus (Doctores [NPC])
Name: Bogame (Dwarf Rogue 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/Bogame.jpgLevel: 1
Experience: 575
Reputation:
1Height: 3' 11"
Weight: 120
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Lawful Neutral
1STR: 10 (+0)
DEX: 9 (-1)
CON: 13 (+1)
INT: 19 (+4)
WIS: 13 (+1)
CHA: 7 (-2)
1HP: 1 / 1
AC: 9 / T: 9 / FF: 9 (Dexterity -1)
Initiative: -1
Speed: 30
BAB: +0
FORTITUDE: +1
REFLEX: +1
WILL: +1
CMB: +0
CMD: 9
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties[/table]1Skills Appraise +8, Craft (Armorsmithing) +12, Craft (Weaponsmithing) +12, Craft (Bowcraft) +13, Disable Device +8, Forgery +8, Knowledge – arcana +6, Knowledge – architecture and engineering +6, Knowledge – dungeoneering +6, Knowledge – local +8, Search +8, Sense Motive +5

Feats: Skill Focus (Craft (Bowcraft))

Special Abilities: Sneak attack +1d6, trapfinding
1Equipment: Artisan's Tools, masterwork (Armorsmithing), Artisan's Tools, masterwork (Weaponsmithing), Artisan's Tools, masterwork (Bowcraft)
1Spells:
Name: Caesennia (Human Sorcerer 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/Caesennia.jpgLevel: 1
Experience: 575
Reputation:
1Height: 5'0”
Weight: 120
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Lawful Neutral
1STR: 9 (-1)
DEX: 13 (+1)
CON: 10 (+0)
INT: 12 (+1)
WIS: 12 (+1)
CHA: 16 (+3)
1HP: 4 / 4
AC: 11 / T: 11 / FF: 10 (Dexterity +1)
Initiative: +1
Speed: 30
BAB: +0
FORTITUDE: +0
REFLEX: +1
WILL: +3
CMB: -1
CMD: 10
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
Dagger|
Light|
-1|
1d4-1|
19-20/x2|
10 ft|
Medium|
P/S|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties[/table]1Skills Concentration +4, Spellcraft +5, Bluff +7, Diplomacy +5

Feats: Still Spell, Silent Spell

Special Abilities: Summon familiar
1Equipment: Dagger
1Spells: 0th – 5/day – Daze, Acid Splash, Light, Prestidigitation; 1st – 4/day – Color Spray, Magic Missile
Name: Minicia (Halfling Rogue 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/Minicia.jpgLevel: 1
Experience:
Reputation:
1Height: 2'8”
Weight: 27
Size: Small
Gender: Female
Alignment: Neutral Good
1STR: 10 (+0)
DEX: 19 (+4)
CON: 13 (+1)
INT: 9 (-1)
WIS: 7 (-2)
CHA: 16 (+3)
1HP: 7 / 7
AC: 15 / T: 15 / FF: 11 (Dexterity +4)
Initiative: +4
Speed: 30
BAB: +0
FORTITUDE: +1
REFLEX: +6
WILL: -2
CMB: +0
CMD: 14
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties[/table]1Skills Bluff +7, Diplomacy +7, Disguise +7, Escape Artist +8, Gather Information +10, Hide +8

Feats: Skill Focus (Gather Information)

Special Abilities: Sneak attack +1d6, trapfinding
1Equipment:


Current RosterName: Sanna Vicessa Stantry (#4) (Human Rogue 2)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/04.jpgLevel: 2
Battles Survived: 1 / 2 ; 1
Reputation:
1Height: 5'5"
Weight: 97
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
1STR: 12 (+1)
DEX: 16 (+3)
CON: 10 (+0)
INT: 13 (+1)
WIS: 11 (+0)
CHA: 15 (+2)
1HP: 7 / 7
AC: 16 / T: 13 / FF: 13 (Armor +3, Dexterity +3)
Initiative: +3
Speed: 30
BAB: +1
FORTITUDE: +0
REFLEX: +6
WILL: +0
CMB: +2
CMD: 15
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
Masterwork Rapier|
1H|
+3|
1d6+1|
18-20/x2|
-|
Medium|
P|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Studded leather|Light|
+3|
+5|
0|
15%|
30 ft.|[/table]1Skills Bluff +7, Climb +3, Diplomacy +12, Escape Artist +8, Hide +8, Intimidate +4, Knowledge – local +6, Move Silently +8, Perform (Weapon Drill) +8, Perform (Dance) +5, Sense Motive +5, Sleight of Hand +6, Tumble +8

Feats: Combat Expertise, Improved Feint

Special Abilities: Sneak attack +1d6, trapfinding, Evasion
1Equipment: Masterwork Rapier, Masterwork Studded Leather, Silk swathes, Smokestick x2, 20 gold, 160 gold set aside
1Spells:
Name: Amala Tarloo Lightstone (#13) (Halfling Ranger 1 / Fighter 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/13.jpgLevel: 2
Battles Survived: 1 / 2 ; 1
Reputation:
1Height: 3'1"
Weight: 32
Size: Small
Gender: Female
Alignment: Neutral Good
1STR: 16 (+3)
DEX: 12 (+1)
CON: 15 (+2)
INT: 11 (+0)
WIS: 10 (+0)
CHA: 14 (+2)
1HP: 14 / 14
AC: 15 / T: 12 / FF: 14 (Armor +3, Dexterity +1)
Initiative: +1
Speed: 20
BAB: +2
FORTITUDE: +7
REFLEX: +4
WILL: +1
CMB: +5
CMD: 16
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
Masterwork Halberd|
2H|
+8|
1d8+4|
x3|
-|
Small|
P/S|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Studded leather|Light|
+3|
+5|
0|
15%|
20 ft.|[/table]1Skills Climb +7, Hide +9, Jump +7, Listen +6, Move Silently +7, Perform (Weapon Drill) +8, Survival +4

Feats: Weapon Focus (Halberd), Track

Special Abilities: Favored Enemy Humanoid (Human) +2, Wild Empathy (+3)
1Equipment: Masterwork Halberd, Masterwork Studded Leather, Silk swathes, 20 gold, 160 gold set aside
1Spells:
Name: Number 23 (Half-Orc Cleric – Apprentice 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/23.jpgLevel:
Battles Survived: 0 / 1 ; 0
Reputation:
1Height: 5'2"
Weight: 130
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Chaotic Good
1STR: 11 (+0)
DEX: 14 (+2)
CON: 15 (+2)
INT: 10 (+0)
WIS: 17 (+3)
CHA: 12 (+1)
1HP: 10 / 10
AC: 17 / T: 12 / FF: 15 (Armor +5, Dexterity +2)
Initiative: +2
Speed: 20
BAB: +0
FORTITUDE: +2
REFLEX: +2
WILL: +3
CMB: +0
CMD: 12
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
Conduit Staff|
Ranged|
+2|
1d4|
x2|
Close|
Medium|
energy|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Breastplate|Medium|
+5|
+3|
-3|
25%|
20 ft.|[/table]1Skills Knowledge – religion +3, Concentration +3

Feats: Extend Spell

Special Abilities: Deity: Inon, Domains (Travel, Magic), Turn Undead 4/day
1Equipment: Wooden Holy Symbol, Conduit Staff, Masterwork Breastplate
1Spells: 0th – 2/day – ; 1st – 1+d/day –
Name: Lathmaskan'rendel (#24) (Dryad Dryad 2 / Bard 1 / Level Adjustment 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/24.jpgLevel: 2
Battles Survived: 0 / 2 ; 1
Reputation:
1Height: 5'7"
Weight: 150
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Chaotic Good
1STR: 13 (+1)
DEX: 16 (+3)
CON: 12 (+1)
INT: 18 (+4)
WIS: 18 (+4)
CHA: 16 (+3)
1HP: 19 / 19
AC: 19 / T: 13 / FF: 16 (Armor +3, Dexterity +3, Natural +3)
Initiative: +3
Speed: 30
BAB: +1
FORTITUDE: +1
REFLEX: +8
WILL: +9
CMB: +2
CMD: 15
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
+1 Longbow, composite|
Ranged|
+5|
1d8+2|
x3|
110 ft|
Medium|
P|
Dagger|
Light|
+2|
1d4+1|
19-20/x2|
10 ft|
Medium|
P/S|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Studded leather|Light|
+3|
+5|
0|
15%|
30 ft.|[/table]1Skills Diplomacy +5, Escape Artist +8, Handle Animal +8, Hide +6, Knowledge – nature +5, Listen +9, Move Silently +6, Perform (Dance) +8, Perform (Weapon Drill) +10, Sense Motive +8, Survival +9, Tumble +9

Feats: Point Blank Shot, Combat Reflexes

Special Abilities: Tree Dependent, Low-light Vision, DR 5/cold iron, Wild Empathy (+11), Spell-Like Abilities, Bardic Music 1/day (Countersong, Fascinate, Inspire Courage +1), Bardic Knowledge
1Equipment: +1 Composite Longbow (+1), Masterwork Studded Leather, Dagger, Silk swathes, # Arrows (Need to go back and count how many she used), 20 gold, 160 gold set aside
1Spells: 0th – 3/day – ; 1st – 2/day –
Name: Number 25 (Dwarf Fighter – Apprentice 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/25.jpgLevel:
Battles Survived: 0 / 1 ; 0
Reputation:
1Height: 3'1"
Weight: 108
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Neutral Good
1STR: 17 (+3)
DEX: 14 (+2)
CON: 11 (+0)
INT: 14 (+2)
WIS: 14 (+2)
CHA: 10 (+0)
1HP: 10 / 10
AC: 17 / T: 12 / FF: 15 (Armor +5, Dexterity +2)
Initiative: +2
Speed: 20
BAB: +0
FORTITUDE: +0
REFLEX: +2
WILL: +2
CMB: +3
CMD: 15
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
Masterwork Scimitar|
1H|
+4|
1d6+3|
18-20/x2|
-|
Medium|
S|
Bull Rush|
Maneuver|
+7|
-|
-|
-|
Medium|
-|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Breastplate|Medium|
+5|
+3|
-3|
25%|
20 ft.|[/table]1Skills Climb +4, Perform (Weapon Drill) +4

Feats: Power Attack, Improved Bull Rush

Special Abilities: Bonus Feat
1Equipment: Masterwork Scimitar, Masterwork Breastplate
1Spells:
Name: Mursin Galamor (#31) (Half-Elf Druid 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/31.jpgLevel: 1
Battles Survived: 0 / 1 ; 1
Reputation:
1Height: 5'0"
Weight: 127
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Neutral Good
1STR: 12 (+1)
DEX: 11 (+0)
CON: 14 (+2)
INT: 12 (+1)
WIS: 16 (+3)
CHA: 14 (+2)
1HP: 10 / 10
AC: 13 / T: 10 / FF: 13 (Armor +3)
Initiative: +0
Speed: 30
BAB: +0
FORTITUDE: +4
REFLEX: +0
WILL: +5
CMB: +1
CMD: 11
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Studded leather|Light|
+3|
+5|
0|
15%|
30 ft.|[/table]1Skills Concentration +6, Knowledge – nature +7, Perform (Weapon Drill) +6, Handle Animal +6, Spot +7, Survival +5

Feats: Spell Focus (Conjuration)

Special Abilities: Animal companion, nature sense, wild empathy
1Equipment: Masterwork Studded Leather, 20 gold
1Spells: 0th – 3/day – ; 1st – 2/day –

Animal Companion: Wolf
Hit Dice: 2
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Neutral
1STR: 13 (+1)
DEX: 15 (+2)
CON: 15 (+2)
INT: 2 (-4)
WIS: 12 (+1)
CHA: 6 (-2)
1HP: 13
AC: 14 / T: 12 / FF: 12 (Dexterity +2, Natural +2)
Initiative: 2
Speed: 50
BAB: +1
FORTITUDE: +5
REFLEX: +5
WILL: +1
CMB: +2
CMD: 14
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Special Properties
Bite|Medium|
+3|
1d6+1|
x2|
-|Medium|
BPS|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
-|[/table]1Skills Hide +2, Listen +17, Move Silently +3, Spot +3, Survival +1

Feats: TrackB, Weapon Focus (Bite)

Special Abilities: Trip, low-light vision, scent
1Equipment:
Name: Number 38 (Human Ranger 1)
http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/38.jpgLevel: 1
Battles Survived: 0 / 1 ; 0
Reputation:
1Height: 4'10"
Weight: 100
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Chaotic Good
1STR: 11 (+0)
DEX: 18 (+4)
CON: 15 (+2)
INT: 7 (-2)
WIS: 13 (+1)
CHA: 11 (+0)
1HP: 12 / 12
AC: 17 / T: 14 / FF: 13 (Armor +3, Dexterity +4)
Initiative: +4
Speed: 30
BAB: +1
FORTITUDE: +4
REFLEX: +6
WILL: +1
CMB: +1
CMD: 15
1Attacks
{table=head]Name|Type|Attack|Damage|Crit|Range|Size|Type|Speci al Properties
Longbow|
Ranged|
+5|
1d8|
x3|
100 ft|
Medium|
P|[/table]1Armor
{table=head]Name|Type|Bonus|Max Dex|Penalty|AFC|Speed|Special Properties
Masterwork Studded leather|Light|
+3|
+5|
0|
15%|
30 ft.|[/table]1Skills Handle Animal +4, Hide +8, Move Silently +8, Spot +5, Perform (Weapon Drill) +5

Feats: Weapon Focus (Longbow), Track

Special Abilities: Favored Enemy Humanoid (Orc) +2, Wild Empathy (+1)
1Equipment: Masterwork Studded Leather, Practice Longbow
1Spells:
Unresolved Plots
Immediate Goals Win all fights in the first games.Long-Term Goals Use the friendship with Pharaved Leptis to gain information and contacts and make him at the very least unfriendly toward the other new lanistas, preferably before the other lanistas manage to begin a relationship with him, particularly Linus of Non Omnis Moriar. Judging by the auction results, he appears is to be my most obvious rival and opponent at this stage.


Reengage with contacts in the navy, particularly officers with whom Servitus served, in order to get more information about exotic shipments and merchandise (slaves, beasts, spices, silks, etc.). If possible, find some who are no longer in the navy to eventually hire as my personal crew on a vessel I either rent or own tasked with acquiring slaves and creatures for me directly from abroad without need to purchase from the auctions.


Build a merchant fleet.


Build a brothel.


Find more about the most influential politicians, religious cults, guilds, craftsmen, and trade companies in the city and surrounding areas.
1
How many days, in game, before the auction ends?Servitus, interested in procuring the most beneficial slaves for his ludus does what he can to find out who is in charge of the current auction and can give him any inside information he might need or want.

[roll0]

Edit: Well, that's an auspicious start...

[Erasmas]

Please keep all rolls within the spoilers!

Again, this auction actually represents several in-game auctions... spread out of as many months. This is simply the "what you've acquired thus far" aspect of us getting started.

While there is someone "in charge" of the auction, it is mainly to keep the peace and to hear out any complaints by either buyers or the merchants. They display the slaves on the stage, collect the bids, and then announce the winners. They have little inside information about any of the slaves themselves. If you want that... you have to talk with each of the merchants and/or the people who may have seen anything worthwhile.

That being said, with that roll, you do find such a person.


You are milling about, striking up small conversations here and there, trying to discern anything unusual or learn anything important. As you are walking away from having just admired the dryad, you overhear a snippet of talk that stops you in your tracks. An elderly man, speaking with what you assume to be his wife, says in a whisper, "Her owner told me that he allowed her to keep the damn thing because without it, she would die!"

As you do a double take in the direction of the dryad, a small boy approaches and tugs on your toga. "If you give me a gold coin, I'll tell you a secret."

[Rizban]

My intention was to find the person in charge of the auctions and try to use my Favor roll to be informed of the highest bid on a particular slave to ensure that I am able to bid higher. :smallwink:Servitus kneels down and speaks to the boy in an overdone conspiratorial whisper.

"Of course, lad, but if it's a particularly good secret, I'll give you two."

[Erasmas]

Go ahead a roll for it.
Please roll % with it (to see whether or not you already know this person). If you do not, it will increase the DC... since Favor is intended to be used with already established contacts. Once again, these checks can be influenced by other means.
Again, I will have to wait until I get bids from all of the other players before I will be able to provide you with an answer.


The boy looks at the dryad and points to her, discreetly... "That thing she's got 'round her neck... it's got magic in it." The child then holds out his open palm expectantly.

[Rizban]

"Yes, it keeps her from dying. Doesn't it?"

Servitus starts to hand him a single coin then hesitates.

"But you know more about it than that. I can tell you're a very smart man who is very good at listening and finding things out."

[Rizban]

[roll0]
[roll1]

If it makes any difference, Servitus offers to provide him a similar favor in return in the future.

Edit: The forum threw an error on me and caused a double post. I deleted the second post to remove the double.


Some Questions:

I was asking about the number of in game days, because I was planning to try to roll for Resource Access as often as possible to be able to gather additional funds for purchasing slaves. Will it be possible to do this?


Are we still required to keep at least half of our levels in Noble when our main characters level up? Other than increasing the Favor and Reputation bonuses, there doesn't seem to be much to gain from it.


Would it be possible to take Skill Focus or Ability Focus or some other feat with Favor to increase the bonus?


What is the process for selling slaves later going to be? Will we have to submit them to the auction again, have you just set a price, roll randomly, or what?


I've never actually seen Spartacus or Gladiator and so don't get those references in relation to ludus size. Can you be more specific? In relation to the Stronghold Builders Guide, each Stronghold Component is 20ft x 20ft. The "Bedrooms" component has two private bedrooms in one 20x20 space.


The Apprentice table seem a little odd. I'm not sure what "half spell points" actually means. Would it be possible for you to just "homebrew" the Apprentice Classes and provide them for us? That way, we know exactly what you expect from us.



A note on typical base pricing...
0th level - Starts @ 100 gp
1st level - Starts @ 250 gp
2nd level - Starts @ 500 gpIs this set in stone? Would it be possible to, say, bid 1gp on each offered slave and them have to sell for that? Is there a reserve on slaves? If I opt to auction a slave (if you allow it), can I set a reserve that keeps it from being sold for less than a certain amount?


Slaves 18, 19, and 27 do not have alignments listed. What should those be?


I'm actually pretty good with spreadsheets and decent with macros. Assuming you use OpenOffice, if you'd like, I can setup a spreadsheet for you so all you have to do is open it, click one macro button, and let it automatically generate a slave for you and format it for posting on the forum. It would make generating new characters MUCH faster for you. I can even set it up so that I don't need to see your roll tables to make it. You'll just have to input that information later if you're interested.

[Erasmas]

The boy shrugs, "I only know about the magic that I see in it. I dunno what it does. Can I have my gold coin, now? If you don't pay me, like you said you would, I'll scream."



1. The starting amount that you have was intended to cover the same initial 'starting' period that this auction encompasses. Once the auction is over and we are brought up to speed, then you can start rolling that! :smallwink:
2. Yes... you will still need to take levels in the Noble class (to remain at least half). It isn't about gaining anything additional, it is to account for your character's political/nobility involvement. As the discussion in the Aldhaven thread, optimization shouldn't be a goal in my games.
3. No, it wouldn't apply... since it's a class gained special ability.
4. You can sell them from your home/ludus, if you wish. It will be an arrangement between you and another PC or NPC. You would need to find potential buyers and discuss it with them.
5. You definitely should... Gladiator at the very least (since it is easier to digest; being a single movie as opposed to a whole season). Spartacus is a little difficult to swallow at the beginning, but gets really enjoyable around Episode 4 and on. They would both give you a lot of insight into how this game is supposed to run. Anywho... I would say somewhere in the neighborhood of 1,200 square feet.
6. Yes... I will work that up and hopefully post it in the Main OOC thread.
7. Nothing is set in stone, but the chance that they would let any slave go for much less than the market value is unlikely. Keep in mind that you aren't the only ones bidding, and there are many uses for a slave. And yes, you can set a reserve if you wish it.
8. Oops. I will get on that too.
9. That would be f-ing fantastic! :smallbiggrin:

[Rizban]

You replied as I was editing this into the above post.

Some Questions:

I was asking about the number of in game days, because I was planning to try to roll for Resource Access as often as possible to be able to gather additional funds for purchasing slaves. Will it be possible to do this?


Are we still required to keep at least half of our levels in Noble when our main characters level up? Other than increasing the Favor and Reputation bonuses, there doesn't seem to be much to gain from it.


Would it be possible to take Skill Focus or Ability Focus or some other feat with Favor to increase the bonus?


What is the process for selling slaves later going to be? Will we have to submit them to the auction again, have you just set a price, roll randomly, or what?


I've never actually seen Spartacus or Gladiator and so don't get those references in relation to ludus size. Can you be more specific? In relation to the Stronghold Builders Guide, each Stronghold Component is 20ft x 20ft. The "Bedrooms" component has two private bedrooms in one 20x20 space.


The Apprentice table seem a little odd. I'm not sure what "half spell points" actually means. Would it be possible for you to just "homebrew" the Apprentice Classes and provide them for us? That way, we know exactly what you expect from us.



A note on typical base pricing...
0th level - Starts @ 100 gp
1st level - Starts @ 250 gp
2nd level - Starts @ 500 gpIs this set in stone? Would it be possible to, say, bid 1gp on each offered slave and them have to sell for that? Is there a reserve on slaves? If I opt to auction a slave (if you allow it), can I set a reserve that keeps it from being sold for less than a certain amount?


Slaves 18, 19, and 27 do not have alignments listed. What should those be?


I'm actually pretty good with spreadsheets and decent with macros. Assuming you use OpenOffice, if you'd like, I can setup a spreadsheet for you so all you have to do is open it, click one macro button, and let it automatically generate a slave for you and format it for posting on the forum. It would make generating new characters MUCH faster for you. I can even set it up so that I don't need to see your roll tables to make it. You'll just have to input that information later if you're interested.Servitus frowns and hands him the gold coin. Apparently, complimenting this little brat and offering him more gold wasn't enough to gain his interest. He'll have to remember the kid's face and deal with him in the future.

[Erasmas]

I saw that and edited my previous post!


The child takes the gold coin and sticks his tongue out at you, before running away and disappearing into the throng of potential buyers. In a moment of slight panic, you check your coin purse... which is luckily still there.

[Rizban]

As a note, there is no way that Servitus would be carrying his entire wealth on his person, and certainly not all in a single, easily stolen pouch. I would say that, at most, he carries 15-20 gold on him at any one time in order to cover incidentals during the day and stores the rest in a safe hiding place or three at his home.

I'll get right on that spreadsheet.Servitus stands back up and looks around.

Assuming there isn't anything more that he needs to do here to finish up with the Favor request, he begins to ask around town looking for an animal tamer, particularly those who might specialize in exotic beasts.

[Erasmas]

I figured it wasn't the whole amount. But good to know the specifics.
:smallwink:

And awesome, thank you!

Also... on the Favor check... I will get back with you once I have the remaining bids.

[Rizban]

He goes in search of an animal trainer.

Gladiator Generator (http://www.mornproductions.com/GladiatorGenerator.zip)

Let me know if you have any problems with it. I tried to add some documentation to make it easier for you. Have fun.

[Erasmas]

See your PM.

[Rizban]

Servitus completes the private exchange.

[Rizban]

This is officially my new favorite game already. I'm can't wait to get further involved in the intrigue and actual fights and training...

BTW, I'd really like to get that PM addressed before the end of the auction. :smallwink:

[Erasmas]

Thank you, Rizban! That made my weekend.
:smallbiggrin:

Hopefully there is more fun ahead!

[Rizban]

Having purchased his slaves, Servitus realizes he needs to find a skilled doctores to train them. He asks around to learn of any skilled gladiators who have retired or skilled doctores available for hire. Servitus will offer to become a patronus to any skilled trainer he can find as part of the hiring process.

[roll0] - to find information
[roll1] - to begin negotiations

[Rizban]

I was reading the OOC thread again and just noticed that we're supposed to start with a free personal servant, and I'm not sure how you want us to handle that. Did you want me to use point buy, roll, or what? I'd also be fine with you using that spreadsheet to generate 4 or 5 and letting me pick one of them.

Rolls for if you want me to roll:[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]


Edit: About that dryad, you said I should use the entry in Savage Species, but there isn't one for dryad...

[Erasmas]

Yes... rolling for them works. You can assign the stats and whatever class you think best fits your personal slave, with the only difference being that they not be registered as a gladiator.

Level - 1d6 (1-3=0 level; 4-5=1st level; 6=2nd level)
[roll0]

On the dryad, if you can extrapolate the bonuses and account for the differences in her base stats (they have already been adjusted for racial bonuses), then just use her write-up from the MM1.

As for retired gladiators, there are three such men who are still alive and willing in Davenshad that are not currently employed. They would effectively increase both your reputation (as well as that of your gladiators), as long as he is kept on staff. He would have to be given the title of "Doctores" and would be of the 'high level' of house member (and cost)... in addition to whatever price you arrange to pay him to agree to take the job - you basically would be asking him to re-enter servitude. I will get the information on them to you probably on Monday.

[Rizban]

Thanks. Also, what is the name of the contact I made earlier, and did he accept my invitation?

[Erasmas]

In my phone currently, but he is the auctioneer listed in the NPC spoiler in the OP of the OOC thread (so many anacronyms). And yes, he certainly did!

[Rizban]

How will our personal slave level up?

[Erasmas]

Hmm... not sure. Maybe treat them as cohorts?

[Rizban]

Then my leadership score of 7 would indicate that he should be level two...

[Rizban]

Okay, I've given it some thought, and these are my goals and plans for the coming future. I also have a few questions, listed at the end.

Immediate Goals
Take Pharaved Leptis out for drinks as agreed and pump him for as much information about the auctions as possible in an attempt to build a friendship with him and to gain contacts, as he is certain to have many.


Find an animal trainer, particularly one who trains animals for combat in order to obtain a trained animal companion for the druid. Addendum: Find out rules for animals in the fights both for classes that have companions and those that don't.
Long-Term Goals
Use the friendship with Pharaved Leptis to make him at the very least unfriendly toward the other new lanistas, preferably before the other lanistas manage to begin a relationship with him, particularly Linus of Non Omnis Moriar. Judging by the auction results, he appears is to be my most obvious rival and opponent at this stage.


Make contact with Cicero Lucius Tarvus (or whoever actually administers the games) with plans to offer the two half-orc barbarians (#8 & 10) as a tribute to his arena to be used in a spectacle fight where they are brutally slaughtered to amuse the crowds as the kick off to the next games.


Find the city official in charge of construction so I can find the rules on building as well as the methods for acquiring a larger space for stabling and training.


Reengage with contacts in the navy, particularly officers with whom Servitus served, in order to get more information about exotic shipments and merchandise (slaves, beasts, spices, silks, etc.). If possible, find some who are no longer in the navy to eventually hire as my personal crew on a vessel I either rent or own tasked with acquiring slaves and creatures for me directly from abroad without need to purchase from the auctions.


Find more about the most influential politicians, religious cults, guilds, craftsmen, and trade companies in the city and surrounding areas.


Questions
Do we live in our ludus, or do we have a domus (house) as well? Are they in the same building with our ludus being situated attached to the atrium section (I hope not...)?


What are the statistics for a Conduit Staff? What kind of damage does it do? Does it add any ability scores to the damage? Is it an attack roll, save, or magic missile like effect?


I know you said core only, but are you going to be using the Gladitorial Matches rules from Complete Warrior p131 or your own system? If you're using the Complete Warrior system, will you be allowing Perform (weapon drill) or Perform checks in general to improve crowd attitude?


Speaking of Complete Warrior, I noticed you said "core only" in relation to classes but never mentioned feats. There are some very interesting things in there for gladiators that I'd love to take, if you're willing to allow any of it, specifically the Weapon Style Feats starting on p112.


I just noticed that, except for the two almost worthless half-orcs I bought at a huge discount, I have an all female gladiatorial stable... I didn't intend that, but I think it fits well with my character's back story. I wonder if having an oiled up, all female team would do anything to sway the crowd in my favor... :smallwink:


Speaking of, will we be roleplaying our own slaves, or will you? How will we be handling the interactions between our slaves and our main character? Our slaves and other players' characters?


How are "lower" and "higher" members of the house defined? Is "higher" just self and family?

[Erasmas]

That would be if they were actually cohorts and you had the Leadership feat, possibly. And, technically, the book stats that you may have attract a cohort of "up to" that level - it is not a guarantee. But what I was referring to is simply the advancement of said slaves... which I have (hopefully) made clearer in the Main OOC thread.

Questions:
We can RP the immediate goals here. Give me a Gather Information check for the drinking with Pharaved (at a +2 for the drinks, large amount of coin you spent earlier). As for the animals... are you trying to find out the rules for bringing them to the fight in character or is that just a straight question of me?
Your home and the ludus are on the same plot of land (taking up the same allotted space that you were given. They can either be attached or not, it doesn't matter. If you want it to be entirely separate, then you will have to buy a second plot.
Here's what I posted in the Big 16: Magic-users may wield a “conduit staff”, which is a quarterstaff that can fire a magical ranged attack without charges. Its energy type is determined by the energy type of the last spell that its wielder cast. It will not function for a non-magic-user. It is otherwise identical to a quarterstaff, except that it costs 50 gp. It requires a ranged attack and, therefore, qualifies for critical hits and misses. It does not add any additional damage to its attacks (similar to a bow). There may or may not be a 'mighty composite' version available later on... I haven't decided yet.
I have taken some of those into consideration, yes... as well as some things from a few other sources. So, it is an amalgamation. And yes, showing off has the potential to increase crowd favor... as will many other factors. Perform (weapon drill) is fine.
I will review those this evening and give you my answer.
It might... especially depending on how you choose to clothe/outfit them for the fights and what their CHA scores are. :smallwink:
I hopefully answered that in the Main OOC thread as well.
Personal bodyguards and family are automatically the "high" level... unless you intentionally intend to mistreat them. There is no hard-fast ruling to it other than that. A higher level member of the household is going to have a lot more loyalty and be a lot happier. Your champion (once you establish one), other gladiators that have risen through the ranks, guests that may come and stay with you, etc... it might be wise to consider them all for the upper tier.

[Erasmas]

As for retired gladiators... they are (in order of retirement): Armedus Kaeus, who was known as the Lion of Davenshad; Proxitus Gaus, who was known as the Troll Slayer; and Valento Pharaji, who was known as the Scourge from the Burning Sands. I have posted their pictures into the NPC spoiler.

Please roll me three separate Diplomacy rolls (you may add your reputation)!
I will also need a second Gather Information from you, please.

[Rizban]

What amount of damage does a conduit staff deal? 1d4? 1d12? 962d100? Please tell me I can buy one for 50gp that does that last amount and no one else can. :smallbiggrin:

[Rizban]

Forgot to roll

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[roll3]

[Erasmas]

Sorry, it does a d6 in melee, a d4 up to close spell range, a d3 up to medium spell range and a d2 up to long spell range. And they actually just sold their last one that dealt 962d100... to a man who teleported here from Tsi-Bon! Sorry. :smalltongue:
Each one of them quotes the price of 40 gp/week... Armedus comes down to 30 and seems eager for the job. You are able to talk Proxitus into 30 as well. Valento, however, doesn't seem interested in the least.
Your asking around does not reveal any information on the illicit market.

[Rizban]

I'm sorry, but... "illicit market"? I'm not sure what you mean.

I thought I was still trying to improve my standing with the auctioneer and turn him subtly against my rivals. Edit: Unless you meant that he doesn't tell me anything about the auction system or give me any contacts.

[Erasmas]

My apologies. I could have sworn that I had more than one person ask about that, but I guess it was just the one (possibly asking at different times). Never mind about that then!

The wine (I assuming that you are buying the "good stuff") is 30 gp per bottle.


"Many thanks for your patronage at the auction this day, my friend! You made many of the traders very happy, and when they're happy... I am happy!"

The man says as he swigs back again upon his pewter chalice.

[Rizban]

"Indeed! To the traders!"

He raises his glass and pretends to take a swig but only sips at most, allowing his companion to do most of the drinking.

"I should like to meet some of those traders some day, know what kind of men it is who bring in the slaves.

And what was with those new lanistas? They didn't seem to want to spend a single coin!"

[Erasmas]

He meets your toast and definitely does not seem to pay any attention to how much you are drinking, intent on finishing each glass he is poured so long as the coin to pay for it comes from another purse.

"Eck... the traders are all dogs! Their company is not fit to spend such a time as this with the buyers. They are desperate men, dangerous men... not the kind of men you want to be seen dealing with, fair Servius."

He shrugs at the mention of the other lanistae. "Their gold spends as well as the next man's. Some paid quite handsomely... for the ones that they really wanted. But those slaves that only provide a passing fancy in the eyes of the buyers... often go for far less than they should, this much is true."

[Rizban]

He shrugs at the insults to the traders.

"I imagined as much, and I really would prefer to not drink with them. I just thought it would be interesting to see the process."

He takes another sip and waits a moment before continuing.

"I intend to purchase many more slaves, and I would like to know where my money goes. It's as simple as that. And, perhaps, if there is a trader or two that I find particularly distasteful, I should like to spend my money on another's merchandise. Fund the best merchants, get the best slaves into the market, and drive up profits all around, right?"

[Erasmas]

He seems to digest this for a moment; you could tell that he was an intellectual man, not as hasty or careless as some that you had dealt with in the past. He struck you as measured and deliberate.

"For you, I will see what I can do. But I warn you... you will most likely not be accustomed to what you see. Nor will it please you, I fear. The end of the world of slave trading that you do not see is far more savage than anything that this city has to offer... of that, I can assure you."

He stares off for a moment, his eyes focused somewhere other than here and now. And then he guzzles the nearly full goblet he held in one go.

[Rizban]

"It is not a past I often mention, but I served several years in the navy and have seen my fair share of horrors."

Servitus too finishes his drink.

[Erasmas]

"Well, my good friend Servius... on that somber note, I should take my leave."

Pharaved turns his chalice over and places it rim-down onto the lacquered wooden table and rises from his chair. He stumbles somewhat, being fairly deep in his cups, but he catches himself with the edge of the table. After righting himself, he bows his head in your direction.

"Much gratitude for the ample wine. Perhaps we should do it again sometime soon. Maybe next time, I'll buy!"

The man laughs a hearty laugh, before getting a rather perturbed look on his face. He then pumps his fist against his sternum several times and belches loudly. That seems to fix the situation, for he continues his previous laughter.

[Rizban]

"Indeed, friend Pharaved. I will hold you to that."

[Rizban]

Servitus will proceed to interview both Armedus and Proxitus, asking about their skills and fighting style as well as their specialties and experience in training other gladiators.
I would also like to know how many bottles of wine I bought with Pharaved. I was thinking it was two or maybe three, since he was really the only one drinking.

[Rizban]

Saw you online posting, but maybe it didn't show my thread updated...

[Erasmas]

Was checking in on my phone. Making longer posts (especially with any coding) are a bit of a pain. I should be able to cover everything tomorrow.

[Rizban]

Completely finished my gladiator roster, with the exception of prepared spelled. I'll provide a list of prepared spells for them at the start of each combat and use the Spells section for spells known and SLAs for those who have those features.

[Erasmas]

I had imagined two bottles with Pharaved, so 60 gp total.
Gladiators looked good (at a glance, at least).
We'll take care of Armedus first.



"So... you're looking for a Doctores, ay? Well, look no further - I am your man, Dominus!"

The somewhat older man got around pretty well despite his age. You were slightly worried about the more physical aspects of the job you were requesting of him, but you had a feeling that he might still be able to gut a man before the other was even able to draw his sword.

[Rizban]

"Yes, indeed, I am looking to hire on a doctores. Unfortunately, I am from outside of the capital and did not follow the games here very faithfully, so I am not overly familiar with your exploits. Can you please tell me about your skills and abilities and any experience as a trainer you have had?"Something that's been bugging me but isn't a huge deal... My character's name is Servitus, not Servius.

[Erasmas]

I don't know what you're talking about...
:smallwink:

Should be fixed anywhere that it still matters and will be from here on out.


Armedus looks somewhat wounded and he casts his eyes towards the ground for a moment.

"You... you have never heard of my deeds? I just thought...", the man inhales deeply and straightens himself up in determination.

"Very well. I am Armedus Kaeus, known as the 'Lion of Davenshad' and the 'Goblin Cleaver' before that. I have skill with many a weapon, but I did my best work with my axe. Many men stood before me only to be half the man they were when they started." The man pauses before bursting into laughter at his own jest. His face reddens visibly and he wipes tears from the corners of his eyes with his knuckle after a moment. Finally, his laughter fades and he clears his throat, returning to seriousness.

"Apologies. As to my training of other gladiators - when my Doctores passed from this world and into the next, I was left with the task of tutelage for many fresh young faces. Most of them are no longer among us... perhaps because the gods did not will it so, perhaps because I was unable to give them all the tools they needed." A somber moment now followed, juxtaposed to his earlier fit of mirth. "I taught that boy Amenokar well enough though, I suppose. You've heard of Amenokar aham Honofret I take it... the Doctore over at the Olivacus Academia?"

[Rizban]

"Oh, I have heard of you indeed, hence why I sought you out. It's just that I was either too young, off at sea, or too busy partying to follow the games. You must be quite renowned indeed for me to have heard of you through all of that!"

Servitus continues to listen.

"I think the name sounds familiar, but I can't say that I know the man. I suppose I only know of the truly famous."

[Erasmas]

Was just looking over Bogame (which is the personal slave that you were rolling up, I believe)? I am confused where her stats came from... when you rolled here, you got:
(4d6b3)[13]
(4d6b3)[12]
(4d6b3)[17]
(4d6b3)[11]
(4d6b3)[14]
(4d6b3)[7]

However, if her dwarven racial adjustments of +2 CON and -2 CHA are taken away, her stats come out to:
[10]
[9]
[11]
[19]
[13]
[9]

Is there something that I'm missing?


The man beams at your subtle complement. "Well... Amenokar was one of the best that I molded. But, I would love the opportunity to put my men against some of his! Or rather... some of your men, Dominus."

[Rizban]

Two age categories."Well, you've definitely got me excited! I do have to make certain my affairs are in order first, but I can get back to you very shortly. I hope we'll be working together soon."

After he leaves, he moves to interview the next man.

[Erasmas]

I didn't see her age and that didn't even dawn on me.
Thank you!
:smallwink:


Proxitus is standing at the window of your office, having been let in by your house slave. He stares out at something near the horizon that you do not see and turns as you enter with a smile.

"We will have rain tomorrow, from the east." The man moves to sit across from you and lowers himself into a chair. "Might I trouble you for a glass of water?"

[Rizban]

Servitus has Bogame fetch the water.

"I welcome you."

Servitus takes a sip of the water when Bogame brings it.

"And I understand that you have some experience in the games and in training for them."

[Erasmas]

The man drinks deeply, before pulling the glass away from his lips and looking upon it, as if it was better than he had expected and the reason would be floating in his cup. He then returned his attention to your conversation.

"Some experience is one way to put it, I suppose. But I doubt that you are unaware of my time upon the sands; otherwise why ask me here? If you are asking for me to become a Doctores, then I will tell you the same that I have told the others that have been asking recently - I have never trained another gladiator."

The man takes another sip and a smile plays at the corner of his mouth, "Notice that I said I have not, not that I cannot."

[Rizban]

"I see.

Bogame, please bring in Number 10.

Sir, I would like your honest opinion of this potential gladiator and your thoughts on how you would train him if you were to do so."

[Erasmas]

"Of course."

Proxitus rises and sets down his chalice as Bogame returns with the slave. He makes several circuits around him, looking intently at the man. He touches the man's upper arms, testing the muscle tone; he looks at the palms of the man's hands, looking for callouses; and a frown crosses his face as he comes to a stop.

He squats down and prods a long scar that runs along the outside of the right knee of the slave. The man winces slightly and moves his leg away.

"Does this injury still pain you?"

The slave nods solemnly, giving Proxitus reason to emit a simple, "Hmm."

Rising and stares into the man's eyes for a long moment. Proxitus then crosses away from him, all the while keeping his eyes trained on his evaluation.

"He has a strong back and a strong jaw - he will have the stamina to go the distance in the arena. He needs conditioning in his arms and that leg gives me pause. He's also afraid, and for good reason. If I were to train him, I would say... heavy armor and shield to account for the lack of mobility. As for a weapon, something light... that he can actually lift... say, a longsword or a light mace."

[Rizban]

"That is a more positive assessment than what I gave. I bought this one at a steep discount due to both the seller and myself thinking little of him. If you are able to make him into a good combatant, I would be most impressed indeed."

[Erasmas]

"Well, I didn't say that I could make him into a good combatant, but he could put up a good fight or two... maybe, if he didn't piss himself when standing in the shadow of his first opponent."

Proxitus laughed a bit and retrieved his cup, drinking from it once again.

"Then again... perhaps he would be better off being sent to the marble mines."

[Rizban]

Servitus dismisses the slave.

"Very well, I believe I have the information I need. If there's anything else, please speak freely. Otherwise, I'll need a little time to make certain my affairs are in order before I make a decision."

After he leaves, Servitus will ask around about the two men to see if he can learn anything more about them.

Armedus [roll0]
Proxitus [roll1]

[Erasmas]

"Of course.", Proxitus says with a slight bow before departing.

Your inquiries at first come up with little more than war stories regaling both men in their own rights. However, you do eventually come up with something about Proxitus that may or may not be of concern - it seems that he has a penchant for gambling on the games and had found himself in debt because of it twice before.

[Rizban]

I really wish I had thought to put ranks into Gather Information and will be investing heavily in it next time I level up. Right now, I'm just running it purely off of the ability mod and synergy bonus. :smallfrown:Wishing he could simply hire both without the two butting heads, Servitus finally settles on Armedus. He sends a bottle of 20gp wine and a letter of thanks to Proxitus informing him that he has had to make other arrangements for the time being but hopes to maintain a friendly relationship with the gladiator.

Calling Armedus back again, Servitus offers him the position.

"I know that, during our negotiations, we agreed to a rate of 30 per week. While I may not have great means at the moment, I do not think such a low rate is worthy of an esteemed gladiator and doctores of your caliber. If... no, when my gladiators start winning their fights, I would like to share the profits with you. The better they do, the better you'll do. I hope you find that acceptable.

Additionally, I am having quarters prepared for you here at the ludus, unless you prefer to live elsewhere."

[Erasmas]

Proxitus sends you a courteous reply thanking you for both the consideration and the wine and wishing you good luck.

Elated with the news, Armedus roughly embraced you upon receiving it.

"Aye, I think that arrangement of pay will suit me well, Dominus. Very well indeed. On the account of living quarters, though... I have a house already and am quite comfortable there. I have a feathered bed and a young wife; so I'd like to remain there, if you'll allow it."

[Rizban]

"That is acceptable, as I would only be able to provide modest accommodations for you at present. I will leave the training schedule to you, as you have more experience in this than I, and I must trust your judgment as doctores. I would request, however that you train them six days per week and take one off for rest and religious considerations, as even a mule does better with one day of rest each week.

With that said, I'd like for you to inspect the slaves I have purchased for this ludus. Many are not well trained, but I thought they showed promise. I would like to hear your thoughts on them."

He leads Armedus to the kennels where he has had Bogame instruct the slaves to present themselves in numerical order.

[Erasmas]

"I agree; one day of rest should be sufficient. I also must ask, Dominus... what is your stance on corporal punishment? And, if in favor of it, do you have a preference as to how it is carried out?", Armedus asks as you make your way down to the stables.

After you give your answer, he sets to the task at hand. He looks them each over, in turn, giving his assessments for each.

"I see you have a keen eye for the gladiatrix."

Number 4 (Human Rogue 2)
"This one's spry... and not half-bad looking either. If she's quick... she should be fine. Grease her up and put her in something revealing and she'll turn the heads of the crowd."

Number 8 (Half-Orc Barbarian - Apprentice 1)
"I don't much care for half-orcs, but this one's got a decent arm. I dunno about much else and I don't want to question how you've spent your coin, Dominus... but I think this one's destined for the Underworld."

Number 10 (Human Fighter – Apprentice 1)
"A solid chin... gimp leg... he's food for the wolves."

Number 13 (Halfling Ranger 1)
"What have we here... a wee lass!" He crouched down to get to her eye level. "She's cute... and she's tough... she's got bigger muscles than that one!" he indicates slave number 10. "So long as she isn't swallowed up by any beasties, she's got a good chance of it."

Number 23 (Half-Orc Cleric – Apprentice 1)
"Ughh... they even come in females, eh? And a bloomin' priestess, no less?!" Armedus laughs again as he fiddles with her holy symbol. "I'll be cut down... huh. Well, if she's worth her salt as a healer she'd be worth keeping around. Can never have too much curing magics lying around, even just here at the ludus."

Number 24 (Dryad Dryad 1)
The man lets out a low whistle, before giving you an incredulous look. "Now don't tell me you intend on putting this beauty in front of a sword? Don't you think her talents would best be spent... elsewhere? Again, not to attempt to tell you your business, Dominus."

Number 25 (Dwarf Fighter – Apprentice 1)
"I think we've found your cornerstone. She's strong, she has her wits about her... teach her to work the crowd and she could go far."

Number 31 (Half-Elf Druid – Apprentice 1)
"Another piece of pretty... and with a look of The Wild in her eyes. Pair her with a beast, I think."

Number 38 (Human Ranger 1)
"Nimble fingers, a sharp eye... she could do well with a bow. Oh, you like that idea, do you?", Armedus smiled at the woman's positive reaction to the mention.

[Rizban]

"I agree; one day of rest should be sufficient. I also must ask, Dominus... what is your stance on corporal punishment? And, if in favor of it, do you have a preference as to how it is carried out?", Armedus asks as you make your way down to the stables."Do as you will with the following caveats. Fist, no sexual punishments, period, and, being my property, I am choosing not to permit sexual conduct between any of my gladiators and any other person or property without my express and specific permission. Second, which should be obvious, nothing disabling or permanently disfiguring is permitted, as that will negatively impact their ability to compete and appeal to the crowd. Finally, I wish to be informed of any such punishment wither before it is enacted as soon as is feasibly possible after the fact."


After you give your answer, he sets to the task at hand. He looks them each over, in turn, giving his assessments for each.

"I see you have a keen eye for the gladiatrix.""To be frank, I placed bids based solely on my beliefs as to how they would compete and their stated skills. It was only after the auction was completed that I even realized I had purchased so many females. However, I do think that the crowd could be quite enticed by such a team..."


Number 4 (Human Rogue 2)
"This one's spry... and not half-bad looking either. If she's quick... she should be fine. Grease her up and put her in something revealing and she'll turn the heads of the crowd."Servitus nods in agreement.


Number 8 (Half-Orc Barbarian - Apprentice 1)
"I don't much care for half-orcs, but this one's got a decent arm. I dunno about much else and I don't want to question how you've spent your coin, Dominus... but I think this one's destined for the Underworld."

Number 10 (Human Fighter – Apprentice 1)
"A solid chin... gimp leg... he's food for the wolves.""These two were purchased a a rather steep discount, and I never intended their use as gladiators. I have yet to determine if they are to be kept as house slaves, used as targets for training, or submitted for an exhibition event for opening to one of the games. I will likely do with them whatever is most profitable at the time."


Number 13 (Halfling Ranger 1)
"What have we here... a wee lass!" He crouched down to get to her eye level. "She's cute... and she's tough... she's got bigger muscles than that one!" he indicates slave number 10. "So long as she isn't swallowed up by any beasties, she's got a good chance of it."

Number 23 (Half-Orc Cleric – Apprentice 1)
"Ughh... they even come in females, eh? And a bloomin' priestess, no less?!" Armedus laughs again as he fiddles with her holy symbol. "I'll be cut down... huh. Well, if she's worth her salt as a healer she'd be worth keeping around. Can never have too much curing magics lying around, even just here at the ludus.""Agreed."


Number 24 (Dryad Dryad 1)
The man lets out a low whistle, before giving you an incredulous look. "Now don't tell me you intend on putting this beauty in front of a sword? Don't you think her talents would best be spent... elsewhere? Again, not to attempt to tell you your business, Dominus.""Indeed, I do, at least at first. What good is possession of such as her if there are none who see her? If nothing else, she will make a fine centerpiece for the team. I had thought she would be predisposed towards natural magics, a druidic tradition, perhaps."


Number 25 (Dwarf Fighter – Apprentice 1)
"I think we've found your cornerstone. She's strong, she has her wits about her... teach her to work the crowd and she could go far."

Number 31 (Half-Elf Druid – Apprentice 1)
"Another piece of pretty... and with a look of The Wild in her eyes. Pair her with a beast, I think."

Number 38 (Human Ranger 1)
"Nimble fingers, a sharp eye... she could do well with a bow. Oh, you like that idea, do you?", Armedus smiled at the woman's positive reaction to the mention.Servitus again nods. "While I do not have any experience on the sands, I do have some minor military experience. Your assessments match fairly closely to my own, though you have provided a few insights I had not realized. So, what do you think? Are they worthy of your training?"

[Rizban]

I have sort of an odd request for you, as it simultaneously weakens and potentially strengthens the dryad.

I just used the flat MM write up for the dryad and adjusted the save DCs and such to adjust for her lower HD and different ability scores, but having that many abilities at 1st level seems a bit... powerful. I kind of want to ask if I can do a mini dryad homebrew.

My suggestion is that she maintains Entangle, Speak With Plants, and Tree Shape as at will SLAs, but she loses all higher level SLAs. She gains spellcasting as a 1st level druid, which stacks with druid spellcasting if she takes druid levels (but no other class abilities), and her other SLAs (charm person, deep slumber, and suggestion) are added as class spells to her druid spellcasting when she can cast spells of the appropriate level. The spells would be available at the same level as they are for wizards.

[Erasmas]

As you made your way down to the stables, Armedus put your mind at ease.

"For the same reasons I gave for not sleeping here, you have no reason to worry from me. What kind of a man do you take me for anyway... why would I choose burlap and spoiled wine when I have velvet and honey at home?! But to quell your worry, you have my word, Dominus. I cannot promise for anyone else, but I will do what I can to stop it when I see it. And you'll be the first to know."

"I am a fair man... a firm one, but a fair one. I only strike if need be and it will only ever be permanent if asked or if in defense of myself or your other property."

After the assessment, Armedus walked back over to where you stood.

"Admittedly... I expected more men. I've never trained a woman before, but I'll assume it's much the same. A few of them could make fine gladiatrixes, to be sure. I'm not as sure as some of the rest, as I said before. I'd be rid of the two males... as they aren't very promising prospects and are only potential problems with this many places for them to put their...", the man stops short of finishing his sentence. Clearly somewhat embarrassed, he cleared his throat before continuing. "... well, you get the point."


Let me look at her later on tonight, when I get home and can pull my book out and really put some thought to it. There is actually a little surprise about her that I have kept secret thus far... Servitus would likely have no idea, but I will disclose it whenever I figure out what to do about the rest.

[Rizban]

"I apologize, because I have not made myself clear. I mention that rule only because of how I have seen slaves treated previously and so that you will know that anyone seeking a liaison with a gladiatrix does not have permission from me, regardless of what they claim. I mention it only as protection for my property and as giving you leave to do what you must to prevent it. I did not expect you take advantage of your position in that regard."

Servitus nods agreement.

"That was a concern of mine as well. I had thought to tribute them to a spectacle for the opening of the games but am unsure as to who to approach for that or if it would even be appropriate. I must defer to your expertise in matters concerning the games, so I ask your thoughts on this."

[Rizban]

Servitus has the gladiators return to their rooms and retires with Armedus to the tablinum and continues the discussion on how to begin training and what Armedus expects and requires to train effectively.

1Later, Servitus composes a letter to Leana, which he sends to her via whatever standard courier service the city employs.

Domina Leana Priscilla Aresius, I Servitus Opimius Pollio bid you greeting.

I noticed you at the gathering of lanistae most recently and observed your altercation with one Mirthen Dalenhower. Catching my attention is not easily done, so I send you congratulations in that. I observed by your tattoo that you served with the legions, and in this regard, we have some similar history, as I have served several years with the navy.

We are apparently both new lanistae, and I seek contention with you only on the sands of the arena, and even then only between our gladiators. As such, I send you this letter to extend friendship to one who has in short time earned some respect from me. I do not send this with bribe, gift, or other incentive, as I believe to do so would insult you. If you believe, as I do, that there exists a mutual benefit in a friendship between us, I urge you to respond promptly.

Dominus Servitus Opimius Pollio
1Upon sending the letter, Servitus will proceed to the forum and inquire there as to the office which issues building permits and handles the sale and transfer of land, buildings, and other such property.

1Finally, he will ask around town about shipwrights and shipping companies, looking for a place that he can purchase or rent a vessel.

[roll0]

[Erasmas]

Okay... yeah, I have all 3.0 books (the one exception to which is a single 3.5 Monster Manual). There is a 2 CR difference between the two... thus the issue. So, taking some of your suggestions, along with some adjustments of my own:

HD: 2d6 (already rolled)
Init: (DEX)
Speed: 30 ft
AC: (+3 Natural Armor)
BAB: +0
Special Attacks: (At will) entangle, speak w/plants, tree shape*; spells as 1st-level druid
Special Qualities: DR 5/cold iron; Wild Empathy (with the +6)
FORT: +0 REF: +2 WILL: +2
Feats: Weapon Finesse, Great Fortitude
Stats: (as already rolled & adjusted)
Skills: (Points allotted as Druid, with those listed in MM 3.5 as Class Skills) She will receive the following racial bonuses to her skills - Handle Animal (+6), Hide (+2, +4 in woods), Knowledge {Nature} (+6), Move Silently (+2, +4 in woods), Survival (+4)

*- an addendum to her tree shape (this is the "secret" that she is hiding); the soul of her tree is actually entertwined with her own. It is contained within her body, bound together by the choker she wears. She may activate the choker only when she is in extreme danger and feels very threatened (like close to death); and doing so calls forth the spirit of her tree. This physically changes her into a treant and since it endangers her tree's life... she is very reluctant to do so. Likewise... she rarely discloses this information.

[Rizban]

Could you please forward that letter to Lentrax's thread.

[Erasmas]

Letter delivered.
Permits- You are directed to the office of the Registrar of Property, one Gowan MacMillan (pic in NPC spoiler).
Ships- The name you hear mentioned most when asking about shipwrights and shipping is Tiso Nomitus (pic in NPC spoiler), who runs "Tiso's Shipping". To have a keelboat built, it would cost you 3,000... and that's the cheapest boat that's bigger than a rowboat. He won't rent you one of his boats without collateral worth the full amount, but you can purchase space on one of his for much less.



Armedus follows with you, nodding as you speak. "I think we understand one another, Dominus."

When the topic returns to what to do with the two males, your new Doctores replies, "As we are a beginning ludus, we will most likely have to start in the smaller arenas... unless you have friends in higher places, that is." Judging your response, he continues, "It would certainly be appropriate on such a level and I have heard whispers of a series of games to be held within the month."

[Erasmas]

Bogame brings you a correspondence with your daily scrolls.



Dominus Pollio,

I appreciate the offer of friendship. I do regret the swift exit I made from the meeting earlier. There is however a possibility for a working relationship, between us. Perhaps you would care to join me for a meal at some future date?

Centurion Leana Priscilla Aresius

[Rizban]

Centurion Aresius,

I greatly anticipate the evening and appreciate the quick reply. Since you have set the invitation, I will allow you the honor of setting the date. I'm glad to host and will provide the meal if you will accept my hospitality.

Dominos Pollio1"I intend to take part if we are ready. If you would look into arranging to give them as tribute, I give you the freedom to arrange it."

[Erasmas]

"Dominus, since Maxinto has requested three gladiators in total... would you like the two males to fight in the primus, and choose a third for the initial?"

Armedus replied.

[Rizban]

"No, I do not wish to simply lose the match. I was thinking of a spectacle, such as pitting them essentially unarmed against lions or something as purely entertainment. I don't mind losing them, but I do mind losing a match."

[Rizban]

3 * [roll0] * 2
3 * [roll1] * 2
3 * [roll2] * 2
3 * [roll3] * 2
3 * [roll4] * 2
3 * [roll5] * 2
3 * [roll6] * 2

1770 total


Is there any kind of open "punch bowl" or such at the party?

[Erasmas]

"As you wish, Dominus."

Armedus assures you that you will arrange everything with Maxinto for the games.


There isn't a 'punchbowl' to really speak of, but there are communal vessels of wine... essentially large clay pitchers that are being used to pour into people's cups.

And on your Resource Access - I came up with 510 as the total... not sure where you are getting 1770. You have it broken down correctly, but that doesn't come out to equal that total.

[Rizban]

510 is correct. This calculator is faulty and insists on 1770...

What are the rules on poison use in the games?

[Erasmas]

It is prohibited in nearly all "civilized" games. The Pits is pretty much the only place that sees its use (legally, that is). If caught using it in a game where it is not allowed... there is a fine (as well as the potential Reputation damage) which would vary depending on the circumstances.

[Rizban]

I plan to use Number 24 in the first bout and Number 4 and Number 13 in the second. I'm ready to get this fight moving...

Hopefully, gifting the two slaves to a spectacle will raise my Reputation some...

[Erasmas]

We shall have to wait and see how memorable of a spectacle that make... the crowd can be fickle.

On that note, do you want to actually fight said event, or would you rather just have me tell a description of what happened?

[Rizban]

I'd like to fight it out if that's okay. I can use a virtual table program too if that'll make it faster/easier.

[Rizban]

Posted images for all the gladiators... or at least the ones who actually matter.

[Erasmas]

Okay... your house colors are light blue and forest green, yes?
Also, if you want to give the three that you are fighting names so that I can have the editor announce them when they come up, that would be great!

[Rizban]

That is correct on the colors, the same as is worn on my character's portrait.

I would prefer to not name the gladiators yet. I have names for them, but I don't wish them announced as such unless it is required. I would like to name the team The Daughters of Aphrodite and have them announced as such and given an air of mystery and allure which will drive people to want to find out more about these mysterious beauties.

I've also changed Bluff on the dryad to Perform (Dance) and am wondering what several swaths of shiny silk would cost.

[Erasmas]

Huh... I can't find your character's portrait (I looked in your initial post here and on your sheet, but didn't see it).

Not naming them is perfectly fine! They will be introduced as The Daughters of Aphrodite.

I will allow that. And we'll say 8 gp for the silk.

[Rizban]

It's the one off of which you edited the pointy ears.http://www.mornproductions.com/dnd/CnG/Servitus.jpg

And, yes, the swaths of silk and Perform (Dance) are precisely for the reason you would expect.

[Erasmas]

Right... duh. Sorry, trying to spin too many plates this morning, apparently.

And of course, I knew what you were after. I'm a young(-ish), redblooded, American male - I had already had the thought.
:smallwink:

[Rizban]

Servitus sends a servant to purchase some arsenic to deal with a rodent problem. At the party later, he drops the tablet into one of the pitchers of wine after he pours himself a glass from it. He returns the pitcher to one of the serving slaves to be carried to the other guests.

[Erasmas]

Okie-dokie... I need to know which servant you are sending for this task. And then I also need a Sleight of Hand check (assuming you are trying to keep the drop hidden).

[Rizban]

Nevermind, I'm going to pass on that this time. I'll save it for when he is a little more prominent.

[Erasmas]

Very well then.

[Rizban]

Servitus spends a few days trying to track down anyone with whom he served in the navy or befriended while there that he could potentially hire as a merchant crew.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]

[Erasmas]

You are able to track down several of your old crew mates... some of which your rapport was better with than others. You find that a few of them are still in the navy and some are currently out at sea. However, you find two men in particular - Merrius 'Iron Back' Sarraeus and Varus Argento that you had counted amongst friends at one time who are both living in Davenshad.

Merrius is now a journeyman blacksmith, working under a master blacksmith in his shop. Varus performs mercenary work, when he can... pulling odd jobs in between when work is slow.

[Rizban]

He invites them out to have drinks and catch up on things. Once he's heard their stories, he tells them how he came back and took over his father's estate after his death, though he conspicuously fails to mention that he squandered almost everything he inherited. He also mentions purchasing the ludus and starting to train gladiators.

[Erasmas]

It'll be 10 gp/bottle for the decent stuff... 30 gp/bottle for the fine stuff.


"Could stand to lose a lot of money that way." Merrius was a man of few words, but he spoke his mind when he did open his mouth. Varus, the mercenary, downs two glasses before even engaging much in the conversation - he always had a deep thirst.

"I dunno, Iron... sounds kinda like fun to me. Getting paid to smash little whelps' skulls in!"

[Rizban]

"I don't know that I'll ever make much money off the ludus, but it will be fun while it lasts. My real interest though is in trade. I'm looking for a few skilled men like you who would be interested in becoming merchants of a sort. I need men who can crew a ship and bring back goods and slaves from abroad."

[Erasmas]

Varus smiled broadly as you spoke of the work to be had. He raises his cup and laughs, "Travel the world again and sail to distant shores? Fight foreign savages, take their gold, and lay with their women?! Where do I sign, good Servitus?"

Merrius' heaved a small sigh at his counterpart's blatant lust for the more visceral gains. The blacksmith waited until Varus stopped making so much of a ruckus before he interjected. "I left the navy long ago, Pollio. I have work here that I enjoy; with no one pointing a blade at me all the time. Give me good reason as to why I should turn my back on this."

[Rizban]

I have an idea, but I need a better idea of world geography. Any help on how things are laid out?

[Erasmas]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v71/Erasmas/NotesRostfin-TerritoriesHumans_zps63022b97.jpg

This is the world map showing how the humans see it divided up. There are 11 different cultures of humans in Rostfin, being:

Yellow - Shachran (Arabic)
Green - Kamanish (Gaelic/Celtic)
Maroon - Qwinian (Native American, advanced to pseudo-medieval technology)
Gold - Baklan (Egyptian)
Blue - Davenian (Greco-Roman)
Red - Tiernish (Moorish/African)
Orange - Gerden (Spanish/Italian, slightly more Renaissance)
Brown - Vykarilian (English)
Purple - Prilaric (Mongolian)
Aqua - Jechotian (Nordic)
Gray - Tsitian (Oriental, mostly Feudal Japan/Imperial China)

[Rizban]

Are there any areas my character would know about from his background that would have little to no organized government? Would he know where the best silks and other trade goods would be acquired?

[Erasmas]

Servitus would probably know at least a little bit about each of these nations, but mostly would have dealt with the Gerdens and the Vykarilians (the other two big naval powers). The Jechotians have a lot of ships, but they do not care for open-water travel much. The places that are not one of the given colors would be the least organized, even bleeding into the "faded" borders of the colored areas. I think he would have a fair idea of where a lot of the best trade goods come from, yeah. Most of the world model is the same, so Tsistians have fine silks (as do the Baklans)... the Shachran have many rare spices. The Tiernish also have spices and also have a massive abundance of gold... however they are highly suspicious of foreigner (especially Davenians) and have strict corporal punishments.

You qualify for a 250 XP bonus, good sir!

[Rizban]

Okay, my goal in this is to get a merchant ship up and running as quickly as possible. My long term goal is to work with Lentrax's character with her contacts in the legion to establish a pseudo military base in a less developed areas that will function as a hub for an eventual trade fleet, hopefully a place with less "advanced" people who we can trade with for food and other immediate necessities without spending much, hopefully with convincing the locals to engage in a bit of slave trading themselves, selling off captives, rivals, or younger family members they can't feed. Is this possible, or is it beyond the scope of where you were wanting to go with this game?

[Erasmas]

It is a little beyond my initial scope, for sure. I am okay with giving it a try, but I'd like for it to stay very basic and minimal (in the way of mechanics/rolls/time spent/etc.). If she is alright with it... we will effectively call any profits/expenses incurred a wash for easy bookkeeping and simply concentrate on the potential slaves that it could bring in. You effectively would have them report into port about every six months or so and could then decide (most likely, between the two of you) what to do with the "catch". Additional costs may crop up if they come across anything truly exotic/dangerous, to cover the extra expenses.

That work for you?
Oh, also... make sure that you saw the note in the previous spoiler about bonus XP.

[Rizban]

That would work for me, though perhaps instead of it being a complete and total wash, it could be some sort of variable.

Say, for example, roll 2d% each month with whatever modifiers for random events you want to incur. Anything above X amount, e.g. 100, is generic profit and anything below is additional expense that comes out of pocket. Any profit or expense and any slaves/goods brought would be split between the two of us as we decide. I could possibly also make profession checks and use that result as a modifier somehow.

My second big goal is to open a small brothel which doubles as a slave market which sells exclusively bed slaves trained in the erotic arts. I'm hoping to develop the contact with Pharaved Leptis into a business relationship if it will not violate whatever agreement he currently has as auctioneer. I think that he would likely have good contacts and the ability to sell the slaves up for sale for top coin. Stocking the brothel will likely be done via the merchant idea previously posted.

I had not noticed that. Thanks for pointing it out! :smallbiggrin:

[Rizban]

Resource Access
Week 2[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]
3 * 92 * 2 = 552
Week 3[roll7]
[roll8]
[roll9]
[roll10]
[roll11]
[roll12]
[roll13]
3 * 119 * 2 = 714
Total Income: 1266
Total Expenses: 165 + 165 = 330
Final Gold: 1,810.67


1I bought basic equipment for each gladiator before you announced how the games were going to be held. I had assumed that most, if not all, of the gladiators would be taking part in some way. If it's possible, I'd like to revise that and "unpurchase" some of that equipment so that I can buy better gear for the three who are going to be involved.

[Erasmas]

I will think on it, though that system may work fine enough as is. We'll see.
The brothel thing is certainly possible... though you will have to acquire the real estate for purchase (if you want to keep it separate from your ludus).
I'm glad that I pointed it out then.
That's fine, if you are meaning to have your gladiators training without arms and armor (unless you are buying separate 'training' gear). Also... unless two gladiators are of very similar builds, one suit of armor cannot be shared between them in differing bouts. The suit most be tailored (more or less) to one person and only minor temporary adjustments could be made back and forth without permanently damaging it to the point of no longer fitting the person it was tailored for.

[Rizban]

I will think on it, though that system may work fine enough as is. We'll see.It was just something ad hoc from the top of my head. I'd expect to figure out more details before implementing it. Since it will take awhile to get setup anyway, I think we've got time to figure something out.

The brothel thing is certainly possible... though you will have to acquire the real estate for purchase (if you want to keep it separate from your ludus).As expected. It's also not something I plan to pursue immediately.
I'm glad that I pointed it out then.Though not as glad as I am. :smallwink:

That's fine, if you are meaning to have your gladiators training without arms and armor (unless you are buying separate 'training' gear). Also... unless two gladiators are of very similar builds, one suit of armor cannot be shared between them in differing bouts. The suit most be tailored (more or less) to one person and only minor temporary adjustments could be made back and forth without permanently damaging it to the point of no longer fitting the person it was tailored for.Hmm... I'm going to have to review the specifics before I continue, but my plan was going to be that I buy some very basic weapons for training and have a set of better weapons, possibly enchanted, for the actual fights that is assigned temporarily to whichever gladiator will use it for that fight. What is the cost on training weapons?

The armor bit is completely understandable, especially as I intended to have the armor custom made to accentuate the strengths and appearance of each fighter. Is there some sort of customization I could buy for the armor that would reflect that and have some sort of game mechanic tied to it?

[Rizban]

Varus smiled broadly as you spoke of the work to be had. He raises his cup and laughs, "Travel the world again and sail to distant shores? Fight foreign savages, take their gold, and lay with their women?! Where do I sign, good Servitus?"

Merrius' heaved a small sigh at his counterpart's blatant lust for the more visceral gains. The blacksmith waited until Varus stopped making so much of a ruckus before he interjected. "I left the navy long ago, Pollio. I have work here that I enjoy; with no one pointing a blade at me all the time. Give me good reason as to why I should turn my back on this.""By all means, if you live a happy life, I would not take that from you, my friend. I dream of building a remote port town in a foreign land to serve as a base for trade, a haven for ships laden with goods and slaves to bring back here and make us rich. I have a friend who was in the legions who can help find able bodied men to guard the town, and...

Well, I'm getting ahead of myself. For now, I want a merchant ship, not a ship of conquest. I need men who are capable and willing to serve on the ship as well as intelligent men who can engage in trade on my behalf. I'm not looking for pirates... at least not yet."

He leans in close and whispers that last part.

"I want to be a respectable merchant renowned for the quality and rarity of the merchandise my ships bring to the capital."

[Rizban]

And one more post necessary for making a roll.

[roll0]
[roll1]
Trying to find a money lender of some kind willing to loan me some start up cash.


Question: Is there any bonus to actually winning the match, or is it just 250gp per gladiator regardless of outcome?


How does the Gamble skill work?


I'm going to make b16, the sorceress girl, a house slave instead of a gladiator. I'll give her a name shortly. Top post entry updated.


I've been copy/pasting the information in my first post from a spreadsheet, and I just found an error on my gold. I charged myself twice for my Servitus' weapon. I've fixed that now and managed to find myself a bit of extra gold. If you ever need a breakdown of where and how I'm spending money, just ask, as I'm keeping close records of it all.


Have I heard anything about the "opening match" with my 'throwaway' gladiators?

[Rizban]

I'm sitting out from DMing, not playing. Please don't drop me as a player.

[Erasmas]

I'm not! I just got slammed at work today, on top of fighting getting sick... so I didn't get a lot of posting done, unfortunately. I've also been trying to grind through prepping everything for the first fight!

[Erasmas]

Training Weapons- Do them at 50% of listed cost. They also deal 1/4 (rounded up) of their damage as true damage and 3/4 (rounded down) as subdual.
"Sexy" Armor- All gladiator armor is assumed to show as much as possible (even though the stats are the same). This is designed with the crowd in mind... who wants to see every muscle move and every cut bleed. So, it's already in place, but there is no bonus - to answer that question.
Moneylender- You easily find several men who are in such business. The standard rate (for a first time borrower) seems to be 20% interest per month.
Winnings- Yes, there is a Winner's Purse for each match.
Gamble- This allows you to determine the odds of any particular match (on your own) and is also used to 'goad' others into betting with you/against you, etc.
B16- Fair enough. She cannot (at a later date) be fought in the arena as a gladiator, however - she is now considered 'unregistered' and is forgoing training.
Records- Thank you, I appreciate that.
Throwaways- Yes... Armedus has taken care of it. They, alongside a convicted criminal, are to be thrown up against a decently known gladiator (at least at this stage of the game) called Zaram Zaphis - a Baklan from the ludus of Halath burr vid Olnar Brudack that wields bastard sword and shield. It will be a slaughter.



Merrius looked as though in deep contemplation on the matter. Varus however, laughed and clapped the blacksmith on the back.

"Where is the man that I once knew, eh? Where is old 'Iron Back' that ran three Gerden pirates through on the same damn spear like they were olives on a skewer? Where is the man that dove from the crow's nest into the reef-filled waters off of Mt. Sruvalt to rescue that boy from the sirens... what was his name again?"

Merrius chuckled with nostalgia, "Ephacles." This caused Varus to raise his glass high.

"To Ephacles. Whatever happened to him anyway?"

"Minotaur gored him when we plundered the Maze of Kalemdos."

The moment turned sullen briefly. Varus then gave a more somber toast. "To those we lost. Merrius... don't tell me that our adventures are over... not yet."

[Rizban]

Training Weapons- Do them at 50% of listed cost. They also deal 1/4 (rounded up) of their damage as true damage and 3/4 (rounded down) as subdual.I'll leave my gear as real gear for now; however, I might actually have a gladiator who focuses on nonlethal damage use an enchanted training weapon in an actual match later... That seems interesting.


"Sexy" Armor- All gladiator armor is assumed to show as much as possible (even though the stats are the same). This is designed with the crowd in mind... who wants to see every muscle move and every cut bleed. So, it's already in place, but there is no bonus - to answer that question.Makes sense.


Moneylender- You easily find several men who are in such business. The standard rate (for a first time borrower) seems to be 20% interest per month.I will borrow 1000gp from one of them, which I intend to pay back in full the the morning after the matches. Since I am only borrowing the money for a day or two, what would the payment be? I will, of course, be able to pay the full amount back whether I win or lose based entirely on the 250gp purse per gladiator entered, as I am entering 4 gladiators. I'd greatly prefer to not be in debt to anyone...


Winnings- Yes, there is a Winner's Purse for each match.Yay!


Gamble- This allows you to determine the odds of any particular match (on your own) and is also used to 'goad' others into betting with you/against you, etc.How do we go about placing bets on the fights?
Rolling to determine odds on the first match between 24 and her opponent.
[roll0]
Speaking of gambling, do the bets pay out at the end of each round or only at the end of the games themselves? If it's per round, I'm set, otherwise, I'll need to take out an additional 1000gp loan...


B16- Fair enough. She cannot (at a later date) be fought in the arena as a gladiator, however - she is now considered 'unregistered' and is forgoing training.That's fine. I'm going to use her as a bodyguard, host for parties, and, eventually, a magic item crafter.


Throwaways- Yes... Armedus has taken care of it. They, alongside a convicted criminal, are to be thrown up against a decently known gladiator (at least at this stage of the game) called Zaram Zaphis - a Baklan from the ludus of Halath burr vid Olnar Brudack that wields bastard sword and shield. It will be a slaughter.Sounds fun!

Just realized I never finished updating the dryad after we worked out her stats! Updating now and will not be making any further changes to her.
Edit: Roster updated.

Buffing: If I use the Noble's Inspire ability, will it only last 5 rounds of "real time" or will the 5 rounds sit in stasis until the match starts? In other words, can I use it now to affect all my gladiators for their first 5 rounds of combat regardless of when their matches start, or is it only the first 5 round period?
If it sits in stasis, I'll use it now for my two gladiators, 4 & 13. If not, I'll want to find some way to use it on my gladiators just prior to the Big Match at the end, as I'm fairly sure the dryad can hold her own.

Servitus toasts Ephacles with his friends, silently wishing a man such as that were still alive today to join his crew.

[Erasmas]

Moneylender- They aren't willing to do the loan for less than 20%... so you would owe 1200, even if the morning after. They have to turn a profit and are fairly hard-nosed individuals.
Gambling- You can either place personal wagers or you can actually seek out the broker for the Arena. You discover that the dryad is to face a gladiatrix by the name of Drisdena, a woman who fights with two shortswords from the ludus of Messadea Arlia Galco. The odds seem to be pretty even, even in your mind (since Servitus doesn't know about her little secret). :smallwink:
But with that roll... you can certainly find someone that is willing to take on your wager on either side of the coin.

[Rizban]

Servitus will resume the conversation with his navy buddies later, and, if it's acceptable, I'll still play it as the conversation taking place before the first set of games.

1Discovering that his first match is against the beautiful woman sitting next to him, Serivtus does the only sensible thing.

"Dear lady, it pains me to have discovered our first match is against one another. Would that our gladiators never met in combat, for in my passion I cannot bear to injure your property yet in my pride I cannot bear to lose. Truly, you have my heart torn asunder."

[roll0]

If this needs to be in the main IC thread, I'll post it there.

[Rizban]

Servitus tries to negotiate a better rate on the short term loan, promising that he will need a much larger and more long term loan in the near future and will do business with that lender again at that time if he'll be a bit more lenient on the rate for this one loan.

[roll0]

1Made an edit on the gambling question while you were replying. "Speaking of gambling, do the bets pay out at the end of each round or only at the end of the games themselves? If it's per round, I'm set, otherwise, I'll need to take out an additional 1000gp loan..."

Servitus will place a 500gp bet on his Daughter of Aphrodite in the first match with the broker and ask what the payout will be if she wins.

[Erasmas]

Yes, the conversation could have taken place before the games.
Please do post the interaction with the other lanista in the Main thread, yes.
With that roll, the lender agrees to 15% if it is indeed paid tomorrow. If not, then the rate goes up to the usual 20%.
The bets pay out at the end of all of the games.
The broker informs you that if she wins the first match that you will see a return of 2,000 gp on your bet of 500.

Just saw your two additions to the last post:
Thank you for finishing up the dryad.
Yes, it will sit in stasis until their match begins (so you may apply it 4 & 13).

[Erasmas]

You had asked about the TRON game (and I'm sure that you were joking), but just in case:

It will be some time before we get to playing it. And when we do, it'll be at my place (south of Houston).

[Rizban]

Actually, I wasn't. I've been a HUGE Tron fan since I first saw it when I was 3, way back in '88. I live more or less in the Houston area, so if that's where it is, and you're open to it, I'd seriously be interested in joining. I've been dying for a real life group ever since mine dispersed about two years ago.

[Erasmas]

I am in Friendswood, if you know where that is. You and I definitely seem to have some differing ideas on how things should/should not be done, but that certainly wouldn't make you unwelcome at my table.

Like I said... it would be awhile before we get to that point. We are in the middle of my buddy's D&D campaign currently and then I am taking the reins after that (which in all should take probably another 9 months to a year. And after that we are talking about a slew of other games that will be a series of non-D&D shorts before we get back on track. So far, we have a on the slate: Dead End (a modern zombie apocalypse), Sundown (my D&D world advanced to wild west setting), TRON, and possibly a Star Wars.

[Rizban]

I know right where that is. One of my two best friends grew up just next door to you in League City. I'm not sure how we differ, but I can work within whatever framework/ground rules given.

You officially make the 10th person I have met on this site from the Houston area. I'm not sure what the age range of your table is, but being married, I'd assume it's at least 20+. I'm 28.

[Erasmas]

Yup... I can be in League City in like 10 minutes from my house. And what I meant was 3.0/3.5 differences and the whole "optimization" conversation. I wasn't implying that we wouldn't be able to get along or anything like that. Hell, I butt heads with one of my friends a lot over various rulings and whatnot.

Huh, no kidding. It really is a small world, I guess. And yes, everyone is over 20. One of the youngest is about the turn 25 (another two will be 24 until later this year) and I have been gaming with most of them for about 10 years now. I am the "old man" of the group, at a ripe old 33.

[Rizban]

I'm probably one of the worst/best optimizers you'll meet, but I know how to reign it in and don't actually enjoy playing highly optimized characters unless the entire party is similarly built. I'd rather be a meaningful part of a team than the star of the show. When it becomes obvious that my character is the most powerful in the group, I try to figure out which players are feeling the most ineffective and try to use my character to boost theirs so they keep having fun.

All that said, most of my 'optimization' is done to achieve a particular ideal or goal rather than for raw campaign breaking power. I like to draw from many different sources in order to make an idea come to life as a viable character and just enjoy the building aspect of it. I'll definitely ask about every possible variation I can come up with, but I never get upset if something isn't allowed.

In short, I once played a psychic sandwich that was 'owned' as part of a young dragon's hoard. Our third player was an awakened squirrel and self-appointed squirrel king ninja with an army of dire squirrels and a Huge pet owl. The final player was a werebat named Bruce. It was awesome.

Also, I went from D&D 2e to 3e GURPs to D&D 3.5, so I really don't know much about the 3.0 rules and where they differ from 3.5.

[Rizban]

Did we get our 250gp per gladiator at the start of the games or do we have to wait until after?

[Erasmas]

That's good to know (about the optimizing)!

And all payments are to be settled up at the end of the games.

[Rizban]

Fixed a number of minor formatting errors on my roster that were bugging me.

Also, I would have had the dryad use Perform (dance) to move to her place on the field, finishing up with a big weapon flourish with Perform (weapon drill) before the battle even started, trying to draw the attention of the crowd and win some favor. Can I go ahead and post that, since it technically happens before the first round of battle, or do I have to wait for my initiative?

[Erasmas]

No, you may go ahead and have her have done that. Just put your rolls in the spoiler along with it and we'll see what happens!

[Rizban]

... and fixed the problem with the tables. As far as I can tell, all the roster entries should be error free now. If you spot anything though, do let me know.

I'll post for the dryad just as soon as I can get it written up.

[Rizban]

Not sure if I mentioned this somewhere or not, but both 1st-level spells for the dryad are prepared as Cure Light Wounds.

[Erasmas]

I don't remember hearing that before now, but that is fine.

[Rizban]

Well, then I'm stating it now. :smallwink: That's what I've been planning on her having prepared for this fight anyway. You can't go wrong with healing spells when you know you're going to have to fight a few encounters of combat in a row.

[Rizban]

Okay, so the 500gp bet was on the fight against Dris, which she handily won.

Now I suddenly am unsure... Was the 2000gp you mentioned the winnings for just that match or the whole fight? I was under the impression that it was just that one match, but now I'm not so sure...

I wanted say that I have Bogame waiting near the bookie with instructions to place another bet on the current match up after she wins each segment.
[roll0]

[Erasmas]

The bookie only takes wagers in individual matches (which you are still in the middle of). These seperate 'segments' don't qualify as individual matches. Obviously, that doesn't matter with "friendly wagers", however.

[Rizban]

I'll use that gamble roll to see what the current odds are and if they've changed. Bogame may still follow his instructions to increase the bet...

[Erasmas]

The bets are set at the beginning of the match, so this particular one is locked-in. You can use that roll to make/change bets towards the Primus, if you would like.

[Rizban]

I'm planning for the dryad's next action to be entangle, and I'm wonder if there's anything special I need to consider for its use in the arena. For instance, would it affect people outside of pit in the stands?

[Erasmas]

No, the barrier between the arena and the crowd prevents things such as missiles and spell effects from passing through it. I have to warn you, however, that your dryad knows that entangle will not work without vegetation present!

[Rizban]

Huh, I did not know that... I kind of always assumed it did a plant summoning thing like in the movies where the roots burst up from the ground with the plants withering into nothingness after the spell ends. That makes me regret asking for the changes to her, as entangle was the main reason I bought her. Hmm... You'll have to give me a moment or two to rethink how to handle this battle...

Edit: Could she possibly throw some fresh cut twigs or something that would work as part of the spell, or would that be a separate action? Edit2: And I'd have had to mention that she had them before the fight too, I suppose...

[Erasmas]

The spell does do a sort of "growing and bursting" type thing and then wither away afterwards; it just has to have some plantlife to 'seed' the spell. Even a single (living) leaf or blade of grass still has the full effect.

I would be okay with allowing that (as long as they were cut, say... no more than 12 hours before the match. Another alternative would be a magical item (a ring, a wand, etc.) that she could carry on her person that is simply a ever-living plant and would then become the focal point for the spell. And no, it wouldn't take an extra action to throw those out onto the ground, just a part of the casting 'ritual'.

But, regardless, yeah... I would've had to know that ahead of time. However, she has a good chance of surviving the battle and there's always next time!
:smallsmile:

[Rizban]

Well, darn. That was the whole lynch pin of my strategy with her: entangle and shoot. With Karsus having a significant chance of one hit killing her right now and being completely uninjured, this really screws with what I was planning to do with her.

Yeah, she's not going to survive this.

Edit: Wish that I had known this ahead of time.

[Erasmas]

You never know... only the dice can tell.

[Rizban]

Okay, I think I'm done here.

First, his miss turns into a hit, then I find out I can't use my main tactic because of a misunderstanding, and now I can't even hit karsus with a freaking 25. There's no point to continuing this, is there?

Thanks. Its been fun up til now.

[Erasmas]

Well... you have two posts that were identical to one another, the first of which your attack total was a 15, not a 25. Hopefully this was just a mistaken double post and not an effort to achieve a better result on the die roll. I really want to believe it was the former rather than the latter.

However, if you feel like I am being unfair for making you take the first set of results over the "reroll"... then I guess there is nothing more I can say.

[Rizban]

Huh? I only posted once. I tried to post, got a forum error message, tried to post, got a "You've made an identical post in the past 5 minutes" message and got redirected. I never saw the 15.

[Erasmas]

It's still there as of the last I checked, and I assume that that is what Pife was using as the basis for his response (as he should).

And again, I'm sorry that the dryad/entangled oversight is causing you grief. However, I don't think it would be fair to the other players to retroactively allow additional 'gear' into a match that is already in route. If it had been something that I had failed to make the correct call on as the DM, it might be a completely different matter.

[Rizban]

Huh, so it is. I honestly didn't see the first post, only seeing the second one when I was redirected.

Regardless, if I'd realized entangle worked that way, I would have done things completely differently and asked about it sooner. Hell, if I hadn't been concerned about potentially harming the crowd, I would have just posted casting it without saying anything at all. I had no idea that the spell would need additional 'gear' in any way.

None of her spells will do anything, and I wouldn't have offered the homebrew rework on her to trade away her higher level SLAs if I'd known the few things she retained would actually be totally worthless and she would have nothing in this fight except for the bow. Or I'd have at least positioned he farther away from the walls and/or had her fight differently to take that into account.

Oh well. Looks like she's screwed regardless of what I do with her at this point. Looks like I'm out 1000+gp, my favorite gladiator, and am also in debt to the money lender. I don't mind losing if the loss is legitimate, but this just feels like I'm getting gyped.

[Erasmas]

And if I had realized that you were hanging everything on her ability to cast entangle... I would have said something sooner. If you read the spell, it clearly states how it functions, it's not like I'm making something up to 'screw you over' (which is how is seems like you feel). I cannot go over every single ability/spell/class feature/etc about each individual gladiator on the assumption that there are such misunderstandings lurking beneath the surface.

There have been several points along this game where I made a wrong call or decision based on a misconception or differing rules. Many of which you called me on and for such, I am grateful. However, when that has been the case I explained myself, apologized, and sought the best way to make amends in a manner that I felt was fair.

And the homebrew reworking was not my idea and was in no way forced into effect. The battle isn't even over with. In addition... she has the ability to turn into a freaking treant, so I'd hardly say that she is "worthless" in any regard. I think the reworking that we agreed upon is still balanced when all of her cards are laid on the table.

What's more, no one forced anyone's hand into spending more money than they themselves offered. This is how this is designed to work... the gold spent is a gamble and an investment, not a guarantee of success when they step out onto the sand. This is a game of chance, or probabilities... otherwise there would be no point in using dice. If failure is not an option, then the game is already stagnant and boring. And, as with all gambles, money lost on an investment that doesn't pay out is not the blame of anyone but the gambler.

I have absolutely nothing to gain from 'gypping' my players and I never do so (unless it is to advance story). This is the very reason that I typically avoid PvP games - people start imagining favoritism and slights that simply do not exist. It brews an unhealthy, competitive paranoia and dissension out of character.

[Rizban]

First of all, I want to apologize for anywhere I was out of line. It's not an excuse, but I had a really bad week last week, some of the details of which have been mentioned elsewhere previously... I was a little irritated when the miss became a hit but understood that. Finding out the spell wasn't going to work made me frustrated, but, having not seen the 15, I got angry because I really felt like there was cheating going on somewhere, as I could not figure out how it was possible to get an AC over 25 at our level and with our budgets, especially considering I knew his ability scores from the auction and know what can and can not be done with them. While I may not have reacted the best possible way, you should be able to at least understand my reaction to that and why I felt cheated.

Still, something has been bugging me about this situation with entangle. I believe you have ruled correctly on the use of the spell, and what you've allowed for its use in the future (should that ever come up) is also fair. However, what bugs me is the dynamic you mentioned between player and character knowledge when you said that the dryad knew the spell wouldn't work before I posted using it despite me, as the player, not knowing it would fail. While I may have unknowingly sent her into combat with a gun full of blanks, she would have known. Unless she was stupid (not reflected in her ability scores) or deliberately trying to sabotage the match (which seems suicidal and not reflected in her personality rolls), then at some point in the previous month of training with Armedus, a professional and highly experienced gladiator, specifically in the tactics of bows and the plan of using entangle with them, the limitation should have come up. Within the realm of character knowledge, I can not see Armedus training her for a full month on a tactic that he knows would not work in the arena without preparing a way to make it work or at least mentioning it to Servitus and helping to devise a different tactic for her. This becomes especially poignant since all it would take to make it work perfectly by the rules is a 5gp spell component pouch, which is always assumed to contain anything necessary to cast that doesn't have a listed cost. My thoughts on the kind of tactic they would have devised to make the best use of the limitation is wrapping leaves, blades of grass, flowers, twigs, etc. into the swathes of silk she has been dropping everywhere, giving her decent battlefield coverage with the spell. Then again, Servitus can have just way overextended himself, lost his best slave, money, prestige, and become a veritable laughing stock among his fellow ludi over a player misunderstanding despite all of that.

I really don't expect you to change your ruling. It's just that when I had time to actually think about why it rankled me so much, I narrowed it down to that.

1On a totally separate note, I don't really see how transforming at this point would help her. From my understanding of what would happen, albeit I could be wrong, her Dex would drop to 8 (ruining her ability to use her bow), she'd lose DR 5/cold iron and gain DR 10/slashing (losing all DR against his scythe), and she'd gain a high Str (useless with the bow), 2 slam attacks, and enough Con for 8 additional hp. She, of course, loses the bonus hit points as soon as she changes back. Combined with DR loss, this is barely outside of the 1 hit kill range, and letting that real damage through would be worse in the end, as she'd actually die from that extra damage when she changed back.

1On a third and, again, completely separate note, I may end up having to take some temporary time off from this in the coming weeks due to family member health and needing to help with final affairs and the like. Hopefully, I won't have to do that, but it's a real possibility at this point.

[Rizban]

On further thought, I looked up gnoll in the monster manual then looked back at the OOC and saw that the gnoll had no class levels when he was up for auction. He is also a humanoid. As such, he is only considered "Proficient with all simple weapons, or by character class". By extension, gnolls, like all monsters, are also considered proficient with the weapons listed in their entry, but only those specific weapons, i.e. the battleaxe and shortbow. I do not know if he took Martial Weapon Proficiency (scythe) or not as his first feat, but if he did not and has no class levels granting it, then Karsus should be taking a -4 nonproficiency penalty to his attack rolls with the scythe.

By calculating backwards from his attack modifier and the known stats from the auction, I come up with the following. He has a stated total of +11. Known Values: +2 (crowd), +1 (Inspire), +1 (BAB), +5 (Str) = +9. Assumed values then are +1 (masterwork or enhancement) and +1 (Weapon Focus). If that is the case, then by not being proficient with the scythe, he is also not qualified to take Weapon Focus with it, dropping him by another 1. That would leave him with a total modifier of +6 to his roll.

He rolled a 9. 9+6 = 15 vs her 19 AC, which changes that hit against my dryad back into a miss.

[Erasmas]

Again, I am sorry for the hardship that you and your family are having to endure. You have my condolences and once more, it is a pain that I familiar with and know that it is not an easy one to deal with.

While I understand being upset at the prospect of there being cheating going on, know that I too cannot stand cheating... and will do everything that I can to get to the bottom of it if I suspect it. All the way from not keeping track of money, cheating on rolls, unfairly adjusting stats, down to reading other player's private threads. A mistake is one thing, but if I ever find out that it is being done on purpose - the guilty party will be ejected from the game. So you can rest easy. And while I can certainly see why were feeling cheated, I do not agree with the level of anger and exasperation applied to your reaction.

I phrased it as "the dryad would know" that the spell wouldn't work in the arena as simply a way to reflect the passing of that knowledge, as a gentle reminder. It was not my intention to have had her withhold such information from you. The decision to not allow the retroactive addition of the items needed was not one made because of whether the issue would have come up before now or not. The decision was made because I felt that it would be unfair to the other players to allow something to suddenly appear into existence mid-battle. It's as simple as that; and I'm sorry that you disagree with me about it. Since the issue with Karsus has been brought up, I am recommending a course of action to solve both issues in the OOC thread here presently.

You are correct about Karsus' weapon/feat situation and, once again, I thank you for catching that. I apologize for not having caught it myself.

If you do need to take some time off from the game, then that is completely understandable. Hopefully this business with the rulings doesn't change your mind into not returning.

[Rizban]

I'm going to keep playing, or it wouldn't still be posting here. I take cheating seriously as well. Cheating takes the fun out of it for everyone, especially the DM. Also, it was less anger and more shock and frustration similar to what I felt after going in to talk to my professor every day for a month back in college to try to get through the class and failing anyway because I "missed one too many classes", and he had no intention of letting me pass from the start.

Also, could you tell me how the treat thing works from a mechanical perspective? I'm really not sure how to handle the numbers and such.

Edit: Also, I have not and had no intention of taking this public or mentioning any of it to anyone else. Had this not been a private thread, I would have conducted this entire conversation via PM or a messenger of some sort. Had it been a live game, I would have just gone with it and discussed it with the DM after the end of the session. While, yes, I was upset, I am chiefly concerned with the group having fun over settling some perceiving slight. Finally, while it was technically rage quitting to say I was done, it wasn't done because things weren't going my way but because if things were as I had perceived them at the time, then I would not have fun playing and would inevitably make things less fun for the others. I'd rather quit a game I love than ruin it for the other players, and this is definitely one of the best pbp games I have ever played.

[Erasmas]

Good, I'm glad to hear that you will still be with us! And I completely agree on cheating.



...failing anyway because I "missed one too many classes", and he had no intention of letting me pass from the start.


I can assure you that the two situations have nothing in common beyond the possible frustration that it may have caused. I never set out for my players to fail and usually aim for the exact opposite outcome (unless they are supposed to be captured for the sake of the story).

I decided to take this public since it involved more than just one player and the situation had two issues that needed to be resolved and both had similar options. It seemed fairest to put it to a vote, especially to remove any question of bias. I tried to remain as neutral as possible and to not name any names. The desire is not to lay blame at any party's feet, but instead to resolve this as quickly as is possible... so that we can all get back to slitting each others throats.

And thank you for the complement. It makes me very happy to hear that you are enjoying it so much and that (for the most part, at least) everything is working out well. Hopefully you continue to have fun with it!



Also, could you tell me how the treat thing works from a mechanical perspective? I'm really not sure how to handle the numbers and such.


My intention was that, as a part of her tree shape ability... she has the option to transform herself into her treant - she would become a treant. The idea being that her tree's soul resides within her as well as her own, using one vessel. This would provide her with the stats and abilities listed in the MM, with all of the appropriate modifiers applied temporarily. The only difference is that whatever percentage of her total HP pool that she is at when the transformation occurs, is the same as that of the treant's. In other words, if she is at 2/20 HP... then she is at 10% of the treant's total HP when the transformation occurs (this works the same in reverse). She does not retain any of her dryad abilities while in this form, aside from changing back when the tree shape ends... as she is not "technically" herself. And again, she would only do this in the most dire of circumstances (such as the threat of impending death) because she realizes that this would quite possibly put her tree into the path of harm ahead of herself.

[Rizban]

I can assure you that the two situations have nothing in common beyond the possible frustration that it may have caused. I never set out for my players to fail and usually aim for the exact opposite outcome (unless they are supposed to be captured for the sake of the story).No, really, I understand. I was telling you what it felt like at the time based on the information I saw. I'm totally over being upset about it now.


My intention was that, as a part of her tree shape ability... she has the option to transform herself into her treant - she would become a treant. The idea being that her tree's soul resides within her as well as her own, using one vessel. This would provide her with the stats and abilities listed in the MM, with all of the appropriate modifiers applied temporarily. The only difference is that whatever percentage of her total HP pool that she is at when the transformation occurs, is the same as that of the treant's. In other words, if she is at 2/20 HP... then she is at 10% of the treant's total HP when the transformation occurs (this works the same in reverse). She does not retain any of her dryad abilities while in this form, aside from changing back when the tree shape ends... as she is not "technically" herself. And again, she would only do this in the most dire of circumstances (such as the threat of impending death) because she realizes that this would quite possibly put her tree into the path of harm ahead of herself.Great! That makes keeping track of things much, much easier and doesn't risk instantly killing her the moment her Con mod drops from changing back, which is my single biggest gripe about all transformation abilities.

Edit: As the DM, it's totally within your rights to take things public, especially doing it in the way you have.

[Erasmas]

I'm all about easy bookkeeping (especially in a game with as many "books" as this one). And see, I told you she wasn't worthless... there's something to be said for being able to become a CR8 creature all of a sudden (even if it is an injured CR8 creature)!

And I'm glad that we agree on me taking it public then.

[Rizban]

Question: Does the dryad level up now, or does she have to win more fights? If so, what's her ECL for leveling right now?

[Erasmas]

What was her LA from being a dryad, again?

[Rizban]

I thought you had said it was +1.

[Erasmas]

Okay, and she had rolled up as a base of 0 (I believe), making her ECL a 1. She survived 1 fight, so yes... she may level up! She will now be considered an ECL 2 and must survive 2 fights to level again.

[Rizban]

Alright! That's what I thought, but I wanted to be sure before updating all of her stuff.

[Rizban]

Rolling for hp
[roll0]
Not sure if you let us reroll 1s, so I'm rolling a number of dice just in case...

[Erasmas]

Yes, rerolling 1's is fine.
Also, how are you leveling her - are you rounding out her dryad levels... or are you bumping her up in druid?

I know you were rolling extra dice, but does she only get one of those (she doesn't get her racial HD again, does she)?

[Rizban]

No, she only gets the HD of her next class level.
I'm actually giving her a level of bard. After that, she'll take her druid levels.

I just posted her new sheet in the first page. I'm also excited, because I just updated my spreadsheet. I can now just copy past a single small section on one page, and it automatically has that entire post formatted and ready to go on my clipboard. Just paste it into the thread, and I'm done. :smallbiggrin:

[Erasmas]

Excellent!
Don't forget to name her.
:smalltongue:

Oh, and she now has a Reputation of 2.

[Rizban]

After the games are over, Servitus inquires of Armedus as to the names of the winners.

[Rizban]

As above.

1Also, I hate to seem greedy, but I think it's a legitimate question. Does Servitus gain any bonus XP for his glaidators winning the match and/or delivering the killing blow to the scorpion?

What about that he stated a personal goal of wanting to win every match in the first games, and he did so, including delivering the killing blow?

[Erasmas]

As to the bonus XP... no. Servitus did not gain any additional knowledge or learn any kind of life lessons (what, in my eyes, Experience is comprised of) above and beyond anyone else simply because his gladiators performed better. That's why there is monetary compensation.

1
Armedus informs you that the winners' birth names have been told to him as follows:
4. Sanna Vicessa Stantry (Vykarilian)
13. Amala Tarloo Lightstone
24. Lathmaskan'rendel {Armedus suggests finding a shorter version}
31. Mursin Galamor

[Rizban]

That's reasonable. I just thought that I would ask.

1
Servitus nods, liking the names, even the dryad's.

"Perhaps we shall just called her Lathma. Otherwise, those seem appropriately beautiful yet fierce names for our gladiatrixes, don't you think?"

Rather than pocket the winnings of the gladiators, like he is certain less reputable lanistae would do, he ensures that the majority of the money goes towards the gear of the individuals who won it. 10% of the winnings (not including the gambling) is given directly to Armedus as his bonus as previously agreed. 20gp is given to each of the four gladiators who participated for spending money at their own discretion; however, their purchases will be monitored and certain purchases might be denied.

That should leave 160gp in each purse, which will be kept separate to pay for gear and such for each of the individual gladiators who earned a purse. For performing well, Servitus will contribute 160gp from his own purse to the halfling who did not win a purse for the same purposes.

The 160 for Mursin Galamor +40gp from normal gold will be spent on purchasing a wolf for her animal companion. The rest will be held for now until I figure out how it should be spent. I'll note the 20 and the 160 on their individual sheets after deducting it from my core funds.

Rolling HP
#13 [roll0]

Edit: Roster should be fully updated

[Erasmas]

"Aye, Dominus... they're fine names for fine lasses."

Each woman is pleased with her allowance of the winnings and most of the requests are fairly straightforward and simple - perfume for a hot bath, an upgrade for their sleeping quarters, a fine meal and drink. However, Lathma and Mursin send word together, asking if they might be permitted to visit the woods outside the city. They have both been a little weary of the city as of late and their brush with their own mortality have given both of them a desire to see wildlife again.

[Rizban]

Servitus, concerned that they would attempt to flee, questions them more closely about their request and intentions.

1Later, he tries to find as much information about Messadea as he can, focusing on her friends, enemies, alliances, social standing, approximate wealth, and the state of her estate and her ludus. If necessary, he spreads a few small bribes around.

[roll0]
I really want to level up...1Servitus has the cleric and druids prepare cure spells and heal up all the wounds from the fight.

1He immediately takes 2,300gp to the moneylender to pay off his loan in full.

Edit: Well, now I'm torn. Servitus originally wanted to drive Suda into poverty due to disliking his choice of patron deity and finding him irritating. Now, however, it seems a "friendship" has developed, and, after the last match, Servitus cannot deny the financial benefits of continuing the relationship.
Perhaps, Servitus will simply try to coopt Sudas' wealth through feigned friendship and the loaning of gladiators. That should keep Sudas happy, as he gets to enjoy playing in his sandbox, and maneuver Servitus into a more beneficial position. He'll simply have to overcome his personal distaste for the man.


Also note that this has nothing to do with my perception of the player and entirely based on Servitus' perception of the character.

[Erasmas]

Both women seemed to have talked with one another about this to no small extent. They both dislike being trapped in an urban environment for so long without the exposure to the outdoors. The gardens and courtyards of Davenshad simply do not fulfill their desire, and they claim that these are merely shadows of the real thing. Both concede to go under whatever conditions that you set for them.

1
On Messadea, you are able to learn:
Friends- Her closest friend, a woman by the name of Aedea Porenia Faltis (the wife of Centurion Adontus Faltis - the Warden of the Legion Stockade) spends a lot of time with her - it is widely rumored that her husband has no interest in what lies between her legs. She has been added to the NPC list. Other than that, there are what appear to be small acquaintances, but nothing of true note that you have found.
Enemies- There is a rather lengthy list of would-be suitors that have tried and failed to win her affections over the years. However, you find no evidence of if these men bear her any ill will or not.
Alliances- None, that you could find evidence of.
Social standing- Her circles seem to be fairly small, but her attractiveness, single status, and her owning her own business seems to have her destined to climb higher.
Approximate wealth- You are unable to find a definitive sum, but you gather that it is somewhere in the neighborhood of 5-10 thousand gold.
State of her estate/ludus- She is in relatively good standing and is doing rather well for an unmarried woman of business. She owes no money (that you could find tell of) and is thought of as 'on the rise'.

With what you rolled, you will have spent [roll0] loosening tongues and greasing palms to get the information provided.


He certainly does not seem to mind the arrangement. And if he doesn't get more "aggressive" with the procuring of slaves, then this is going to be a short game for him. Nobody is going to want to pay him to compete in their games if he plans on bringing nothing to the table.


1
The moneylender thanks you for your business and gladly takes the payment.

[Rizban]

Servitus will continue the line of inquiry on Messadea in this thread (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?p=15189987#post15189987) for now.

1Servitus steps up to the dryad and fingers her exquisite collar.

"I must be honest. I wish to trust you both, I really do. Answer me truthfully. How far can you wander from your 'tree' before it starts to affect you?"

1later on, Servitus seeks out his friend Pharaved and inquires of him if he knows of any male slaves he could purchase of the ages of 7 to 10.

[Erasmas]

Okay, for the time being (since the conversation is between you and Leana) I will check the thread and wait to post anything until I am needed.

1
Inspecting her collar, you cannot seem to discover how it fastens; in fact... you see no seams in it at all. The dryad recoils slightly at your touch, and then stiffens herself against further wincing.

"I have never been out of sight of my tree, until they did this to us.", she indicates the choker with her eyes. "But it is known, that my kind grows very sick and dies if we are separated. It is said to happen before the sun has had a chance to set on the day of such sadness."

The druid speaks up, adding, "You can trust us, I swear it. Send us with armed guards; bind us to one another! We hold no ill intent."

1
Pharaved looks incredulously at you and says, "Don't tell me they are fighting boys now!"

However, any concern that he may have doesn't prevent him from informing you that most children can be purchased for 25 gp.

[Rizban]

"You have no reason to fear me, and I have no intention of separating you from this collar. I ask only because I am concerned for your safety. If I could return your tree to you, I would do so in an instant.

I do not wish to deny you, but I fear for your safety. As you well know, I have no guards to send with you beyond the gladiators of my ludus, nor would I trust any mere hired men with two ladies of such beauty and desire as yourselves. Truly, I am in a conundrum."

He sighs heavily.

"I have an idea, but... If you wait but a few days, I will try to arrange something for you."

1Servitus laughs.

"I would not send children into the arenas, even if they were to allow it. No, I simply wish to acquire some slaves who can be raised with the skills I desire and, having grown up in the house, will hopefully be more loyal to it. For now, they will be doing small chores and errands."

[Erasmas]

"Dominus.", they both say in unison as they bow their heads in respect before taking their leave.

1
"But of course."

Pharaved will carry out whatever purchases that you wish to make, arranging the exchange of flesh and coin.

[Rizban]

Random question after reading up on Roman law.

If a freeborn woman has sex with a slave she does not own without the owner's permission, and he informs her to stop, then after the third infraction, having ordered her to stop twice previously, he was legally allowed to claim her as a slave and take ownership of anything she personally owned.

Does this law apply in Davenshad?

Edit: Updated my statistics post.

[Erasmas]

No, that doesn't apply in Davenshad. Although that is very interesting!
:smallsmile:

[Rizban]

Well curses! There goes my backup plan to 'acquire' Messadea through very dirty tactics. :smallmad:

[Rizban]

Are there any "underground" fighting arenas or lesser fights in nearby cities? If so, would surviving those fights count toward leveling?

Servitus might just become interested in such places if they do...

[Erasmas]

There are a few arenas scattered about the Davenian countryside... but the money would be far less. Every lanista (and prospective gladiator after fame and glory) has their sights set on Davenshad.

And there aren't really very many "cities" that are nearby; the next closest one being about a week's trek by foot (four day by wagon; three by horseback).

But yes, surviving these fights would still count towards leveling.

[Rizban]

Servitus appoints his new halfling as a house slave and gives her the name Minicia. After learning of her skills and abilities, he sends her to gather information about the upcoming events.

If I can purchase a masterwork tool for Gather Information, since it says that tools can be purchased for any skill, please add an additional +2 to each roll. I will be buying such an item for her if they are allowed before sending her out on her fact-finding mission.

Gather Information checks about several different topics.
Malatra Thera Meritus
[roll0]


The Danacus Auditorium
[roll1]


About Kamanish influences in the Empire in general
[roll2]


Valemus Quindus Meritus
[roll3]


Gowan MacMillan
[roll4]


About Pedrum
[roll5]


About the usual rites of seasonal passage
[roll6]


About the cult of Nerull in Davenshad
[roll7]


Potential repercussions of refusing to participate with the cult's rites
[roll8]


Brother Galdras of the Blackhood
[roll9]

[Rizban]

Rolling for resource access.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]
[roll5]
[roll6]


3 * 105 * 2 = 630gp

Resource Access - ... Can also be further influenced by bribes (as ‘Favor’).If I'm understanding that line correctly from the ability I'm going to use my Favor roll for that week to increase my Resource Access roll(s). See next post for the roll. I'm not sure of the exact mechanics, so I'll wait for your response before calculating it in any way.

[Rizban]

Favor Roll[roll0]

[Erasmas]

Yes... you can use your Favor to try and bolster your Resource Access. The result that you rolled gives you a +4 to all of your rolls for the week, which I believe lands you a further 168 gold:

((4x7)x3)x2=168

1
I cannot for the life of me think of a reasonable "masterwork tool" for Gather Information. If you can come up with something and sell me on it, then you can buy one. Until then, however, I'm going to have to say that one doesn't exist.

Gather Information Checks:
Malatra Thera Meritus [24]- Her family traveled here when she was a young girl and her older brother Gowan had made a name for himself in the Davenian legion. She settled in and married Valemus and has (purportedly) been happy ever since. She misses him a great deal while he is away on long quests, but seems to get by with her female body slaves (not uncommon). She was given the Danacus Auditorium after one very successful campaign brought Valemus back to Davenshad atop 'a mountain of gold'. She has a dear friend named Clementina Arra Ditius (the daughter of a wealthy merchant), who is known to be a social butterfly.
The Danacus Auditorium [17]- A prize that was built by Valemus as a form of entertainment for his wife, Malatra. It is on par with the Arena Calatotis and sees decent business and favor within the city, for being such a small venue.
Kamanish Influences [22]- The Kamanish are not overly present in Davenshad any more than other human cultures. There loyalties are both a bane and a boon at times, since they often return home to deal with clan matters; while on the other hand... where their loyalty is pledged otherwise, the fulfill it with a passion.
Valemus Quindus Meritus [18]- An adventurer that seems to be truly gifted with a gladius and shield, he has been successful at an occupation that sees many young men and women dead before they ever have children. He seems fairly normal aside from this, and enjoys the things that life (and no small amount of gold) has to offer.
Gowan MacMillan [29]- Served in the 12th Legion when he was much younger, having been conscripted after a small skirmish in Kamaney. He rose quickly and eventually earned his retirement. He moved his entire immediate family here, to Davenshad, and made a very comfortable life for them. He is known for his short temper and his rather loud voice and somewhat violent nature when he is provoked. However, he is also said to be a fair man and to have a good-natured heart.
Pedrum [11]- You fail to learn anything new about the western continent than your years in the Navy had already taught you (which isn't much, aside from the Kamanish, the Qwinians (Native American), and the Shachrans (Arabic) live there).
Seasonal Passage Rites [30]- Both the solstices and the equinoxes are revered by most all over the world. Many feel that the gods must be appeased at these times in order to keep the normal passage of the seasons to continue. It is often also included for things like: a mild winter, a bountiful harvest, a long summer, and a rainy spring. Most of these rites typically are associated with sacrifices of some form or fashion.
Cult of Nerull [28]- Not an all together evil bunch, they definitely ride the border between the two. They are considered to be the experts on burial, funerary passages, undeath, and the afterlife. They are largely permitted to operate in the city so prevalently because of the Baklan's penchant for using undead in their army; the cult provides a lot of insight into the tactics used for dealing with them.
Potential Repercussions [12]- You have a difficult time finding any word about this. Either no one wishes to discuss it with you... or no one has ever refused such a thing before and therefore has no answer to give.
Brother Galdras [20]- He is the High Priest of Nerull here in Davenshad. He is shrouded in mystery and darkness... though nothing outright evil or sinister in known about him. The idea that you keep getting from everyone is just a "he's a creepy old man" kind of thing.

[Rizban]

Yes... you can use your Favor to try and bolster your Resource Access. The result that you rolled gives you a +4 to all of your rolls for the week, which I believe lands you a further 168 gold:

((4x7)x3)x2=168Total of 798 in and 155 out. Got it and will update first post to reflect the changes.

I'll probably start doing this for every week that passes without me spending Favor on something else...


1
I cannot for the life of me think of a reasonable "masterwork tool" for Gather Information. If you can come up with something and sell me on it, then you can buy one. Until then, however, I'm going to have to say that one doesn't exist.A quality notebook for keeping track of notes and information and correlating the information gathered to see connections you wouldn't have based solely on what you are told?

[Erasmas]

A quality notebook for keeping track of notes and information and correlating the information gathered to see connections you wouldn't have based solely on what you are told?

While, arguable, I could see how a "Davenian" equivalent to a notebook for such a thing could help someone keep better track of something like that... I don't see how a masterwork version of it would have anything additional to offer. Sadly, there are no Trapper Keepers.
:smallsmile:

[Rizban]

Sorry for delaying everything. :smallfrown:

If it's not too late, I'd like to take care of a couple of things IC before the combat starts.

[roll0]-2=27 - Find if there are any nature dedicated rites taking place at least a few days before the Nerull fight and big arena fight.
If there are and they're open to such, he arranges for his two nature lovers, Armedus, Armedus' wife if she wishes, and himself to be present for the rites. Servitus will also arrange to allow the two gladiators to have a little time alone to commune with nature, if they still feel the need and he feels that they won't try to run away.

Clementina Arra Ditius - [roll1]-2=13

((Sorry, typoed the bonus))

[Rizban]

[roll0] - Find out about owning property outside of the city: Cost, risks, benefits, laws, etc.

#38 will be taking part in the Nerull battle.
[roll1]

Updated the Statistics post for current stats and pictures of all characters.

[Erasmas]

No worries on the time of things, it happens.

Gather Information Checks:
Nature Rites- Yes, there is one held by the followers of Ehlonna (goddess of nature/plants) outside of the city in the outlying farmlands. You all attend and your two gladiators seem very appeased. Armedus and his wife gracious accept your invitation and even bring a goat as an offering for the sacrifices. Everything goes quite smoothly and you actually even manage to have a good time.
Clementina Arra Ditius- A close friend to Malatra Thera Meritus, she is known for being a social butterfly and a gossip hound. She is the thirty-two year old daughter of Drumus Tibero Ditius, a wealthy merchant here in the city. She was married, but her husband was a centurion and died while away at campaign. It is widely rumored that she has admitted that she is in no rush for a 'replacement' husband.
Land Outside the City- You write to Gowan MacMillan's office and someone there replies with a missive detailing the information you sought out. In addition, simply asking around provided you with any of the "unofficial information".
+ Cost: Not sure if this is covered in the Stronghold book or not; if not I'll work something up.
+ Risks: Since it is not in the city proper there are certain things that would no longer be provided (you would no longer be under the protection of the City Guard but instead of that of the Legion, etc.). It would be much more difficult to receive information and contact with what was going on in the city in as timely a manner.
+ Benefits: Not as crowded, land would be cheaper, prying eyes would be far less of a worry.
+ Laws: For the most part are the same as in the city proper, though things are a lot more lenient out here, since the Legion is the one to enforce them, there is much more bureaucracy that bogs things down... sometimes in your favor.

[Rizban]

No worries on the time of things, it happens.

Gather Information Checks:
Nature Rites- Yes, there is one held by the followers of Ehlonna (goddess of nature/plants) outside of the city in the outlying farmlands. You all attend and your two gladiators seem very appeased. Armedus and his wife gracious accept your invitation and even bring a goat as an offering for the sacrifices. Everything goes quite smoothly and you actually even manage to have a good time.
Clementina Arra Ditius- A close friend to Malatra Thera Meritus, she is known for being a social butterfly and a gossip hound. She is the thirty-two year old daughter of Drumus Tibero Ditius, a wealthy merchant here in the city. She was married, but her husband was a centurion and died while away at campaign. It is widely rumored that she has admitted that she is in no rush for a 'replacement' husband.
Land Outside the City- You write to Gowan MacMillan's office and someone there replies with a missive detailing the information you sought out. In addition, simply asking around provided you with any of the "unofficial information".
+ Cost: Not sure if this is covered in the Stronghold book or not; if not I'll work something up.
+ Risks: Since it is not in the city proper there are certain things that would no longer be provided (you would no longer be under the protection of the City Guard but instead of that of the Legion, etc.). It would be much more difficult to receive information and contact with what was going on in the city in as timely a manner.
+ Benefits: Not as crowded, land would be cheaper, prying eyes would be far less of a worry.
+ Laws: For the most part are the same as in the city proper, though things are a lot more lenient out here, since the Legion is the one to enforce them, there is much more bureaucracy that bogs things down... sometimes in your favor.


Posting from phone, so...

Would I know how socially acceptable it would be living outside of the city?
My thought with this, eventually, is to setup a walled estate as a sort of mini getaway where I'd have plenty of room for training and other things. Eventually getting a large walled in area for imported animals, an extensive brothel, Anna barracks for all of my guards. I'd have it semi-public, making it a retreat for the wealthy in the city and allowing them to remain as anonymous as they desire while there. Basically, my own little resort.

[Erasmas]

It isn't necessarily socially unacceptable to live outside of the city. How people will perceive it will be largely based on the amount of land you obtain and the size/grandeur of the villa.

If you make it far enough away for it to qualify as much of a "resort", you know that it might put you out of people's immediate consideration for some of the games in the future.

[Rizban]

My plan was less of a resort and more like an ultra high end brothel with a emphasis on privacy, anonymity, and luxury than a true vacation resort, though it would offer other amenities too. I was thinking of it being something along the lines of one of those hot springs resorts you start seeing just outside the big cities in Japan.

[Erasmas]

Yeah, that might work.