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Ghostfoot

2018-05-04, 04:41 PM

THE NORTHLANDS SAGA - SPEARS IN THE ICE

https://i.imgur.com/wxz2eDC.jpg

1. What game system are you running (D&D, Call of Cthulu, Palladium, GURPS, etc.), and if applicable what edition (Original, Classic, Revised, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 10th, etc.)?

Pathfinder

2. What 'type' or variant of game will it be (i.e. "Shadow Chasers" or "Agents of Psi" for d20 Modern)? What is the setting for the game (eg. historic period, published or homebrewed campaign setting, alternate reality, modern world, etc.)?

"Spears in the Ice", the first adventure in the "Northlands Saga" campaign setting and adventure path by Frog God Games.

Information on the setting has been summarised by another DM and can conveniently be accessed on the Paizo site here (http://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59).

3. How many Players are you looking for? Will you be taking alternates, and if so, how many?

4-5 or so

4. What's the gaming medium (OOTS, chat, e-mail etc.)?

Here - GitP forums.

5. What is the characters' starting status (i.e. experience level)?

Level 1 (0 xp)

6. How much gold or other starting funds will the characters begin with?

Average per class as per Core Rules.

Local technology is classed as "High Middle Ages" so items such as full plate armor, bastard sword, crossbows, rapiers, and gunpowder weapons will not be available unless you have a darn good reason.

7. Are there any particular character classes, professions, orders, etc. that you want... or do not want? What are your rules on 'prestige' and/or homebrewed classes?

Preferred classes:

Barbarian (especially Bearsarker* & Ulfhander* archetypes)
Fighter (especially Huscarl* archetype)
Bard (especially Skald* archetype)
Rogue (especially wilderness archetypes)
Ranger (especially spell-less archetypes)
Sorcerer (Cunning Woman* bloodline)
Cleric
Druid
Oracle
Paladin (Spear-Maiden* archetype)
Hybrids of the above (eg Bloodrager, Hunter, Skald, Slayer, Warpriest)

Discouraged classes:

Monk
Wizard
Alchemist
Cavalier
Gunslinger
Inquisitor
Magus
Samurai
Ninja

No homebrew. Third party stuff by request (must be on PFSRD).
* denotes setting-specific content. Info on new races and classes can be found on the Paizo website here (http://paizo.com/people/Nilihist).

8. What races, subraces, species, etc. are allowed for your game? Will you allow homebrewed races or species? 'Prestige' races or species?

Preferred races:

Northlander (viking human)
Nûk/ Nûklander* (tundra elf, low-tech "Stone Age")
Seagestrelander (tribal human, low-tech "Stone Age")
Dwarf
Giant-Blooded*
Troll-Blooded*

Discouraged races:

Halfling
Gnome
Half-orc

No homebrew. Third party stuff by request (must be on PFSRD).
* denotes setting-specific content. Info on new races and classes can be found on the Paizo website here (http://paizo.com/people/Nilihist).

9. By what method should Players generate their attributes/ability scores and Hit Points?

PF 15 point buy

Max hp for 1st level. Half max + 0.5 (rounded up) thereafter.

10. Does your game use alignment? What are your restrictions, if so?

Standard alignment rules, but you have to be broadly capable of working together. Non-evil preferred.

11. Do you allow multi-classing, or have any particular rules in regards to it?

Standard rules.

12. Will you be doing all of the die rolling during the course of the game? Will die rolls be altered, or left to the honor system? If players can make die rolls, which ones do they make, how should they make the rolls, and how should they report them?

All die rolls on the GitPs forums - either in the OOC forum or in spoilers in the IC forum please. I will roll initiative, saves and certain skill checks for you. Basically anything reactive I will roll in order to speed play up. You can do all of the proactive rolls for your character.

13. Are there any homebrewed or optional/variant rules that your Players should know about? If so, list and explain them, or provide relevant links to learn about these new rules.

A variety of minor setting-specific rules. Details are with the setting info on the Paizo site here (http://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59).

2 traits allowed (any mix of campaign & other).
1 drawback (+ 3rd trait) allowed
I reserve the right to veto any wackiness.

Background skills (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/skills/background-skills/) are in effect.

Other optional rules considered on request.

14. Is a character background required? If so, how big? Are you looking for anything in particular (i.e. the backgrounds all ending up with the characters in the same city)?

A basic background is required. Nothing too extensive.

The Northlands Saga Adventure Path calls for characters that are in service to Olaf Henrikson, the Jarl of Halfstead. These members of the jarl’s household are lesser servants, would-be huscarls, and other attached persons. If any PC is not a member of the household, then he should be associated to it in some way, possibly as a seasonal hanger-on. The Northlands are not like other fantasy settings. Rulers and others in positions of authority simply do not hire adventurers to solve their problems; they either take care of things themselves or send members of their household to see to the situation.
Having the PCs all be in the service to the same jarl allows for the party to have a solid foundation. Not only do they have similar goals and directives, but they also will likely know each other, if not since childhood, then at least from the mead hall of their jarl. Even outsiders would have had time to fraternize with the locals before the adventure begins.

15. Does your game involve a lot of hack & slash, puzzle solving, roleplaying, or a combination of the above?

Hack & slash, RP, heroism, bravado!

16. Are your Players restricted to particular rulebooks and supplements, or will you be allowing access to non-standard material? What sources can Players use for their characters?

The following sources are approved:

The Northlands Saga Complete
d20pfsrd.com (www.d20pfsrd.com) Paizo content

Other sources by request.

The Northlands Saga Player's Guide is available for purchase here (https://www.froggodgames.com/northlands-saga-complete-players-guide) but is not required reading. I'll provide info on anything relevant.

https://images2.imgbox.com/c1/5d/cjObD5J0_o.jpg
https://images2.imgbox.com/84/b1/l1W5yObz_o.png

Centrally located on the North Sea, the Hord Peninsula is sometimes considered the heart of the Northlands, despite the cultural prominence of neighboring Storstrøm Vale. The coastal areas slope gently down to the sea and are dotted with hundreds of tiny anchorages. These coastal lands are also very fertile and crossed by several small streams that flow from the interior. As a result they are densely settled and cut up into nearly a hundred jarldoms, some rather petty, some grand (such as the jarldoms of Halfstead and Galvë). The central portion of the peninsula is lightly wooded, though only in the southern regions where lies the Forest of Woe can it be truly considered a forested area. As a result of the presence of this ominous woodland to the south, most of the settlements are concentrated in the central and northern areas or along the coasts.

In the center of the peninsula, the trees become sparse in a marshy upland that is called the Moors. A portion of these moors is dry with firmer footing and holds the area known as the Barrow Lands. Beyond the settled lands, a thin fringe of forest, either not yet cleared or intentionally left wild, permits hunting and logging without venturing into the forest to the south.
You have been ordered to appear before your jarl, Olaf Henrikson, Jarl of Halfstead, greatest city of the Northlands. For young members in service to his household or visitors who have wintered here at Silvermeade Hall but have no immediate plans for pursuing their wyrd, this is a moment of both hope and fear. Hope that he assigns you a glorious task that allows you to prove your mettle, but tinged with fear of his wrath should you fail. Your jarl is a good man, strong and battle-tested, with many famed heroic deeds to his name. Most importantly, he is a ring-giver, one who is generous to those in his service who prove themselves deserving.

After making yourself presentable, you and a few of his other retainers and guests walk through the gates of the great hall’s stockade and present yourselves to the guards at the carved wooden doors that mark the main entrance. After exchanging a few jests with these household warriors that you have known for as long as you’ve been a part of the jarl’s household, Ari Hrokson, your jarl’s herald, comes for you.

“I needn’t remind you to keep polite and let the jarl speak first. And do not keep too much of his time, this is a busy day,” the old skald states. He then announces you to the jarl.

Party roster

Player
Character
Alignment
Race
Class

DrK
Freyja Skirlaug (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1617432)
LG
Giant-Blooded (https://paizo.com/people/Nilihist)
Paladin (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/paladin/) (Spear-maiden (https://paizo.com/people/Nilihist))

farothel
Bjorn Ulgardson (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1965654)
LG
Human (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/core-races/human) (Northlander (https://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59))
Fighter (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/fighter) (Huscarl (https://paizo.com/people/Nilihist))

Farmerbink
Elissa (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2213564.)
N
Half-Elf (Nûk) (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/core-races/half-elf)
Hunter (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/hunter) (Feral Hunter (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/hunter/archetypes/paizo-hunter-archetypes/feral-hunter))

Ghostfoot (NPC)
Signy Stone-Eye (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1623267)
N
Human (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/core-races/human) (Northlander (https://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59))
Sorcerer (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/sorcerer/) (Cunning Woman (https://paizo.com/people/Nilihist))

farothel
Anna Sagewood (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2469758)
NG
Human (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/core-races/human) (Northlander (https://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59))
Bard (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/core-classes/bard/)

DrK
Signun Olavson (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2475168)
CN
Human (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/core-races/human) (Northlander (https://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59))
Slayer (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/slayer/)

Starbin
Heltinne Thrainsdottir (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1046819)
NG
Aasimar (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/other-races/featured-races/arg-aasimar) (Angel-blooded (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/other-races/featured-races/arg-Aasimar/#TOC-Angel-Blooded-Angelkin-))
Oracle (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/base-classes/oracle) (Spirit Guide (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/base-classes/oracle/archetypes/paizo-oracle-archetypes/spirit-guide))

Link to the IC is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?563204-The-Northlands-Saga-Spears-in-the-Ice-IC).

Player
Character
Alignment
Race
Class

BelGareth
Gunnar Hallvard (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1585861)
LG
Human (Northlander)
Slayer (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/slayer/) (Vanguard (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/slayer/archetypes/paizo-slayer-archetypes/vanguard))

Mercurion 2
Knorron Iceborn (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1965796)
N
Troll-Blooded
Rogue (Scout)

Dexam
Skorri Erlenson (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1599152)
N
Human (Northlander)
Skald (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/skald/) (Dragon Skald (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/skald/archetypes/paizo-skald-archetypes/dragon-skald-skald-archetype/))

atlastrembles
White That Walks (Vitsomgar) (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1965464)
NG
Nûk
Druid (Bear Shaman)

PeacefulOak
Dark Dreams Wanderer (Mørkedrømevandrer) (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1583859)
CG
Elf (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/races/core-races/elf) (Nûk (https://paizo.com/people/Nilihist))
Spell-less Ranger (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/3rd-party-classes/kobold-press-open-design/spell-less-ranger/) (Dual-style)

Ghostfoot

2018-05-10, 03:01 PM

History

Common Knowledge (https://forums.giantitp.com/showsinglepost.php?p=25099828&postcount=535)
Recent History: Trained DC20 (https://forums.giantitp.com/showsinglepost.php?p=25099841&postcount=537)
Ancient History: Trained DC25 (https://forums.giantitp.com/showsinglepost.php?p=25099833&postcount=536)

Dramatis Personae

Jarl Olaf Henrikson is one of the most powerful men in the North. He is not a member of one of the great families such as the Gats or the Hrolfs, nor is he a resident of Storstrøm Vale where dwells the true old blood of the Northlander peoples. But he is nevertheless jarl of the most populace and cosmopolitan settlement in the Northlands and, as such, commands a great deal of respect and power. He is not even the ruler of Hordaland wherein his city of Halfstead lies, but even the køenig of Hordaland (the closest Northlands equivalent to a king) respects and listens to the words that Jarl Olaf speaks in the mead hall or at the Thing.

It is well know that Olaf Henrikson began his career as a sellsword in the Southlands, where he gained his reputation as a leader of men and as a generous ring-giver. He also amassed his fortune with plunder from his days of fighting for foreign lords before attaining command of his own ships and reaving against the settlements of those same lords. Upon returning to the North at the head of his own fleet of sixteen ships, he landed at Halfstead, at that time a stockaded port town known more for its surly jarl and acerbic residents than anything else, and put the place to the torch. Those residents who did not yield or flee were put to the sword, and a new banner raised over Halfstead — the boar and rings of Olaf Henrikson. That Køenig Ragi Steinson raised no hand against the newcomer brought forth more than a few suspicions as to whether or not the crafty ruler had not paid Olaf to raze Halfstead in the first place. Regardless of any real or imagined collusion, the result was a port rebuilt by Henrikson into a large and prosperous settlement open to trade from abroad and a powerful jarl loyal to the køenig and with a fleet of ships at his command that only grew as his reputation spread.

Today, twenty years later, Jarl Olaf is a settled man raising a family, and Halfstead is a booming Northlands port largely left to its own devices. The local Thing makes most of the decision for the town, though Jarl Olaf does keep a hall within the city from where he holds court and feast twice a month in which to hear complaints and settle legal cases and give rings to the worthy. This also allows him to claim his sizable share of the duties collected from the many visiting merchant ships. The fleet of longships Jarl Olaf maintains is down to four, and these are more prone to patrolling the waters off the peninsula for raiders than going a-viking on their own. But many rightfully expect that should the need arise, the jarl could raise the call and gather a fleet of loyal ships twice as large as what he had before.

A self-made man, Jarl Olaf is enjoying his quiet semi-retirement despite even the recent turmoil for the crown of Hordaland. He remains loyal to Leif Ragison, the young køenig, but holds Halfstead carefully neutral in the current political machinations to keep the port open and prosperous. In his mind, a healthy Halfstead is good for all of Hordaland and the North, regardless of who rules the country. As such, he and his family spend most of their time at his personal hall of Silvermeade, which is situated on the coast halfway between Halfstead and Galvë. It is here that they winter and here that the PCs begin their careers in his service.

Hallbjorn Bolverkson, Jarl Olaf's most trusted huscarl
One-Eyed Sven, semi-retired huscarl
Aase, huscarl & spear-maiden
Kraki Hallason, up-and-coming huscarl
Sigfastr Wyrmhammer, dwarven trader
Hauk Arinbjornson, Vastaviklander mercenary
Graf, godi/blacksmith
Ari Hrokson, Jarl Olaf's herald
Grimr Wisetooth, middle-aged skald
Odi, elderly cunning woman
Inga Olafsdottir, Jarl Olaf's eldest daughter
Fastvi Olafsdottir, Jarl Olaf's second daughter
Runa Olafsdottir, Jarl Olaf's youngest daughter
Young Ljot, archer & householder to Jarl Olaf
Berg Geirson, swordsman & householder to Jarl Olaf

Køenig Leif Ragison: 10-year old køenig of Hordaland
Regent Gudrid Ragiswif: Regent of Hordaland. Mother of Køenig Leif Ragison; Widow to former Køenig Ragi Steinson
Hengrid Donarsdottir: Protector of Estenfird and the Daughter of Thunder. A legendary warrior.
Jarl Ljot Gatson: Eldest of the Gat clan of Gatland
Jarl Magnus Hrolfsblood the Bold: "King" of Hrolfsland
Kol the Redhanded: Køenig of Vastavikland and feared viking
Ottar Gundrikson: skald and herald to the Jarl Ref Solumundson of Storstrøm Vale
Jarl Ref Solumundson: a landholder of middling importance in the Storstrøm Vale
Styr the Ugly: an outlaw hunted by Hallbjorn Bolverkson and Kraki Hallason, huscarls of Jarl Olaf
Njarni the Traitor [DECEASED]: a wanted criminal from Storstrøm Vale who murdered his own jarl
Gufti the Clever [DECEASED]: a fugitive rapist from Trotheim in Storstrøm Vale
Sibbe the Unkempt [DECEASED]: a seiðkona, a witch-woman of local folklore who helped with the difficult birth of Little Runa. She would have to be more than 80 years old for all the tales attributed to her.
Kein the Bearsarker: a hero of the Forgotten Wars ~400 years ago, he defeated the Longnight King at the Battle of the Barrow Lands and ended the fight against the horde of undead Andøvan warriors
Kára Jansdottir: a trapper of Greymane's lands in western Hordaland
Jarl Arne Greymane: a jarl of western Hordaland, brother to Ulf
Jarl Ulf Greymane: a jarl of western Hordaland, brother to Arne, currently away raiding the Southlanders
Thalli Hallison: a guide of Greymane's lands in western Hordaland
Dirty Olaf, Arni Buison, Cnut Erpson, Najal the Skinny, and Sigrid Saxisdottir [ALL DECEASED]: Cattle thieves and murderers of Javik Gilson
Javik Gilson: a murdered freesteader of Greymane's lands in western Hordaland [DECEASED]

.................................................. .................................................. ....

Odal; The Lands:

As one of the newest Northlander colonies, Estenfird is a wild land on the frontier of what the Northlanders call civilization (and considering that the rest of the world thinks of the Northlands as the frontier, that is saying something about its ruggedness). Less a nation than a quarrelsome collection of independent-minded settlers, Estenfird does not have a køenig or jarl, leaving the local Things and the Althing of Estenfird as the only semblance of government in the region. Estenfird ranges from the tip of the Skagerrok Peninsula northwest along the Ice River as far as Nieuburg. Few settlers have pushed beyond Nieuburg, as the climate becomes far too cold for agriculture and the Nûk, although not violent, have made it known that they do not appreciate people moving into their lands. Many brave words are said in the halls of Estenfird about pushing the Nûk out of the way, but so far none have dared to confront that enigmatic and mystical race.

The average Estenfirder is a rugged and forthright person, inured to hard work and dangerous environments. They are often stern and taciturn, slow to speak, but quick to act. Few Estenfirders go a-viking, as they have plenty of adventure at home. In the southern portions of the region, along the many rivers and on the coast, agriculture takes precedence, and many Estenfirders are farmers or herdsmen. The rivers of Estenfird are rich in fish, but the surrounding waters yield only a poor catch, making this region one of the few that sees little in the way of maritime activity. Inland and in the mountains, fur trapping and logging are the primary industries. In the spring, fur trappers and hunters come down the rivers and gather at Three Rivers and Nieuburg to sell their season’s catch. In the fall, the loggers come down in huge flotillas of cut timber, selling lumber to merchants from throughout the Northlands and beyond.

Estenfirders are notorious for their independent ways, a factor that causes worry in the more dictatorial jarls of other regions. There are no jarls in Estenfird, and to even suggest such a thing is to invite harsh words if not a duel. Many who come to the region do so to escape crimes or feuds or to live as free men and women beholden to and reliant upon none. The local Things meet once a year, drawing in people from the scattered farmsteads and logging camps. The Things of Estenfird are unique in that they do not have a landholding requirement — there is so much unclaimed land in the region that all a person has to do to become a landholder is to point at a place and say “mine.” Instead, to speak or vote in the Thing, a person must be free and have the sponsorship of anyone who has spoken before at that Thing. The Althing of Estenfird works in a similar way, only the requirement is that the sponsor has already spoken or voted in the regional Althing.

Estenfird suffers from several threats, in addition to the long cold winters and general ruggedness of the land. Giants are common in the Wyrm Fang Mountains, as are drakes and wyverns. The general lawlessness of the region promotes independence, but also encourages attacks by outlaws, bandits, and even Northlanders from other regions a-viking along the shore. The gravest threat to date has been the growth of the beast cultists, foul worshippers of a demon-god dedicated to bestial violence and mayhem.

Three centuries ago when the tribal moots of the Northlanders evolved into the system of government known today as the Thing, not everyone was in favor of the change. True, the Things do not have much power per se, but their social might is very high, especially in Hordaland, Storstrøm Vale, and Estenfird. One of the leading groups that opposed the growing power of the Things was the Gat clan, who took themselves and their followers and settled a harsh and distant region, naming it Gatland.

Gatland is ruled by its jarls, all of whom are connected to the Gat clan in some way. Each jarl is a king in his own domain, undisputed ruler of a piece of territory that contains only those who offer allegiance to him. Even Jarl Ljot Gatson, the eldest of the Gat clan, has no true authority over these petty tyrants, though his economic and military might means that his word is often heeded.

The land itself supports this sort of locally focused government. The interior of Gatland is dominated by the Olf Mountains, leaving only a coastal fringe capable of supporting farming. Even there, the soil is poor and rocky, forcing the people of Gatland to rely on the sea for much of their sustenance. To the sea they have turned, becoming the best fishers and whalers in the Northlands but also crossing the whale road to trade and raid. In fact, trading/raiding is such an integral part of Gatlander life that some have entirely given up farming.
Hordaland is a loosely governed kingdom that is on the brink of collapsing into warring jarldoms. The former Køenig, Ragi Steinson, passed away last year after a lengthy illness, leaving behind a 10-year old son as his heir. Young Køenig Leif Ragison rules through his regent mother, Gudrid Ragiswif. The jarls are divided as to their loyalty, with some supporting the køenig, some throwing their might behind Ragi Steinson’s bastard son Amundi the Blond, and still others being courted by both the Gats and Hrolfs.

The Hordalanders are more cosmopolitan than most of the other Northlanders, while remaining true to their Northlander ways much more so than the Hrolflanders. This is in large part due to the city of Halfstead, the Northland’s largest settlement and biggest trading center. Hordalanders are used to seeing strange travelers from distant lands, many of which come and stay for an entire season before sailing off for home. It is not unusual for a Hordalander jarl to host one or more strangers from the Southlands or even the distant Caliphate for the winter, and to do so is often considered a great boon and sign of status.

However, the people that settled Hordaland came from the Storstrøm Vale, the very heart of Northlander culture. Hordalanders cling tightly to their traditions, seeing every freeholder as his own ruler and giving the jarls only enough power to organize the hirth and see that the kingdom is well managed. The local Things are very popular, and most Hordalanders treat the rulings of the Things as being more law than suggestion.
The Hrolfs, one of the two most widespread and powerful of the many families of the Northlands, exert tight control over this area. The family is vast, and no one member has been able to convince the others to name him køenig and thus establish a third kingdom in the Northlands. Covering the entire Jarvik Peninsula from the Andøvan Mountains to the south to the Straits of Half, lies Hrolfland. The Hrolf clan rules this land with an iron fist, having either clan members or allies in every region in a position of power. Furthermore, the more powerful family members have begun attempting to institute more feudal systems of government and land management, even going so far as to dissolve local Things and outlaw the formation of an Althing of Hrolfland.

In order to shepherd their resources and stave off the land-greedy Gats, the Hrolfs have imported ideas and strategies from the Southlands, including employing Southlander mercenaries to fight fellow Northlanders. In Hrolfland, one can find the beginnings of a true feudal system, the use of crossbows and siege engines, and nobility who have taken to fighting from expensive (and imported) warhorses.

The common people of Hrolfland are little more than thralls at best, kept in bondage to the Hrolfs by vows of obligation. Even the townsfolk owe much of what they produce to their local jarl, who is always a Hrolf. The entire network of related jarls is officially ungoverned; however, Jarl Magnus Hrolfsblood is the predominant member of the clan and exerts a great deal of influence. Jarl Magnus fancies himself a king (not the less powerful Northlander køenig), though he has yet to openly claim that title.
The lair of the feared Jomsvikings, Jomsburg is a fortress-city perched high above the North Sea.

The Jomsvikings themselves are notorious vikings and mercenaries who terrorize the Northlands and beyond with impunity. These pirates and cutthroats refuse to abide by any law but their own and live a life of debauchery and slaughter, taking what they want and crafting no goods, growing no food, and providing no useful services themselves — other than rapine and slaughter.
Part of no specific land, but central to all, the North Sea is the lifeblood of the Northlanders. The whale road of the Great Ocean Ûthaf and the infamous Northern Passage finds its terminus in the North Sea, and the waves that lap upon the rocky shores of the Seal Coast find their genesis in those same cold waters. For the Northlanders whose culture and sustenance relies upon the tradition of going a-viking, the North Sea is their highway and their escape route. The lives and livelihoods of a great portion of the population of the Northlands rides in longships upon the eddies and currents of the North Sea, and as its tides pull so too does their fate.

While the waters and cold are capable of quickly killing those that fall in for long, that is not the only danger that the dark waters hold. Storms are swift and sudden on the North Sea, and these gales have left the wrack of many a longship of doughty warriors upon some desolate shore or at the bottom of Rán’s domain. As a result, ghost ships crewed by draug and worse haunt the campfire tales of many a stalwart sword brother, and it is not unknown for brine zombies to rise from the surf on a foggy coastal night. In the deeper waters, brine dragons, devilfish, grindylows, sea drakes, sea serpents, dire sharks, dragon turtles, gigantic specimens of octopi and squids, and even the legendary krakens pose hazards for the merchants, fishermen, and raiders alike that ply the sea’s steel waves and freezing spray. The Sea is a fickle mistress, from the secrets she holds to her deadly children, and even the mightiest køenig dares not forget to pay her homage.
Beyond the Northlands, indeed at the edge of the world, lies the vast evergreen forests and open tundra of Nûkland. How far it stretches north of its beginnings along a line running from the conifer forest of the Frozen Taiga just north of the World’s Edge Mountains to the far ice of the Endless Glacier, no one knows. Nûkland is at least several thousand square miles in extent, and likely more.

The taiga is home to a variety of large fauna such as saber-toothed tigers, giant beavers, cave bears, and huge palmate-racked deer. The trees of the taiga slowly give way from towering pines and spruces to stunted versions of these evergreens and eventually to clumps of dwarf trees sheltering in any nook or cranny the land provides. The terrain changes from soft pine needle-covered forests to boggy tundra, frozen throughout most of the year and providing fodder only in the short summer.

On the tundra itself, only the hardiest animals such as arctic wolves, musk oxen, reindeer, giant bears, and the legendary woolly mammoth thrive. Other megafauna have been reported, but many in the Northlands dismiss stories of tigers the size of horses, woolly rhinoceroses, and even giant sloths as just tall tales. What is known is that the strange beasts unlike those found in more southerly climes can be found here, and returning with the claws, fangs, or pelt of such a great beast would put a hero well on the way to having his own saga sung in the mead halls of the Northlands.
The coast is a wild region known as Seagestreland, the home to the savage barbarians known as the Seagestrelanders. These barbarians are not Northlanders, and live by herding and farming in the rich forestlands along the coast. For generations, there has been a mixed relationship between the Northlanders and the Seagestrelanders. Longships come to trade, bringing iron tools and luxury goods to exchange for gold, furs, amber, and slaves. Sometimes the Northlanders arrive and just take what they want, causing the Seagestrelanders to be very wary of the approach of a longship.

Numerous temporary trading posts along the Seagestreland coast are inhabited for a few weeks or months during the year. Only one of these is a permanent settlement that sees traffic year-round and, even then, the winter population is small.
The long valley of the Storm River runs from the lower slopes of the Waldron Mountains to the North Sea. It is the longest-inhabited and most heavily populated area in the North, and as such is often considered the heart of the Northlands. There is currently no køenig of the Vale, but in times past, one or another jarl had amassed enough power to claim the crown. Today, the Vale is divided into a host of petty jarldoms, each vying with the others to become powerful enough to claim the title of køenig. The local Things exert a great deal of authority, often vying with the jarl for power. Many of the Things’ jurisdictions cross the boundaries of more than one jarldom. The Althing of Storstrøm Vale meets once every ten years, and is the scene of some of the most heated political battles in the Northlands, for it is the vote of the Althing that decides who shall wear the crown. More than once over the years, these votes have resulted in spilled blood.

The Vale is the cultural heartland of the Northlands, the place where the Northlanders society as it exists today originated and where Northlander social mores find their greatest expression. While the coasts of the Hord Peninsula are nearly as densely settled, and the Gatlanders are the epitome of the viking ethos, the Vale-folk are the standard by which all others are judged. Here the largest godshouses, the burial cairns of some of the Northlands’ greatest heroes, and many of the most popular ballads sung by the skalds are set.

A wealthy and industrious land, the Vale is rich in good farmland and pasturage for their famed sturdy ponies, has plentiful fishing both offshore and in the Storm River, and even has access to iron and silver in the Waldron Mountains. The land is deficient in only two things: true wilderness (though the foothills of the mountains are somewhat wild) and room. Every generation sees individuals or entire families leave the Vale seeking their own land in less-crowded regions.
Harsh, rugged lands breed hard, strong people, and no land is as harsh and rugged as Vastavikland. Estenfird may have its deep forests and tall mountains, and Nûkland its vast snow-covered tundra, but Vastavikland surpasses them all in natural wonders that can kill. The Olf Mountains do not so much roll toward the sea as march down to do battle, forming steep cliffs cut only by narrow fjords. Small holdings fill every habitable and arable inch of these valleys, but even so there are always more mouths than the land can support. Thus, the Vastaviklanders have developed a culture centered on raiding and trading the steady but tiny trickle of gold that flows down melt-water streams from the glacier-choked mountains.

To say that Vastaviklanders are violent is an understatement; even jarls and køenigs are chosen by ritual combat. Men and women are raised to become warriors, and even the few thralls are trained to fight. Every spring, hundreds of longships set sail; those that come back bring much needed supplies, those that don’t have reduced the number of mouths to feed during the winter.

.................................................. .................................................. ....

Ansuz; The Gods:

The Æsir

The Æsir are considered the highest of the gods to the Northlanders, and they reside in Asgard, the Realm of the Gods. The Æsir form a pantheon of beings that preside over most of the aspects of mortal life that aren’t specifically tied to the world of mortals (Midgard as it is known to Northlanders). As the principal pantheon of the Northlanders, all members of their culture venerate the Æsir to some extent. It is a truly mad Beast Cultist indeed who doesn’t at least whisper a prayer to Thor before going into battle. Very often, the dead of both sides on a battlefield wear the same hammer amulet to venerate the Thunder God, though they were mortal enemies on the field. Except for those rare instances devoted exclusively to some demon of the Ginnvaettir, all godi houses in the North include runestones dedicated to the Æsir as a whole even if their primary devotion is to an individual deity or the Vanir.

Baldr, Balder: God of Bravery and Beauty
Bragr, Bragi: God of Poetry and Song
Frigg, Frigga: Goddess of the Home and Hearth
Loptr, Loki: God of Trickery, Fire, and Strife
Tiwaz, Tyr: God of Law and Justice

Donar is the son of Wotan and Frigg. By far the most popular of the Æsir, Donar is the upstanding — though somewhat wild and reckless — god of storms and heroes. His role as the master of storms means that farmers and others who rely on the weather make appropriate sacrifices and prayers to him. However, despite this important, but mundane, role, Donar is most-often regarded as the patron of heroes and the foe of evil, especially giants and trolls. A long-standing feud between Donar and the Jötnar has resulted in instant violence whenever the two are near, and this extends to his devoted followers as well. Tales of Donar’s might and his magical hammer Mjolnir are many, and each seems to be a daring deed in the cause of humanity that trumps the one told before it.
Father of the gods, bringer of the mysteries of magic and the runes to the Northlanders, patron of the mad-blessed Bearsarkers and Ulfhanders, Wotan is the supreme god of the Æsir and the entire Northlander pantheon. He is also the one that possesses the greatest contradictions. On the one hand, he represents wisdom, good rulership, and the serene joys of husbandhood and fatherhood. On the other, that wisdom is often gained through madness and sacrifice. Warfare, as well as the risks and tragedies involved, are part of his sphere of influence, as are travelers and others who undertake long journeys far from hearth and home. Wotan is the husband of Frigga, and father to all the other gods.

Most of the stories about Wotan focus on his role as the bringer of wisdom, magic, and runes. It is said that he sacrificed an eye and hung himself on the World Tree for eight days in order to learn of magic and the runes, not to mention gaining great wisdom. During this time he saw the past and future, and thus knows the threads the Norns spin, weave, and cut. He is also known to travel the world disguised as an old man, sometimes to learn more of the world, sometimes to test heroes and others. Wotan has two pet ravens, Hugin and Munin that scour the world for secrets to bring back to their master, two pet wolves, and an eight-legged horse that accompany him into battle.

Those who die in battle with honor are taken up to Asgard and feasted for the rest of eternity in Wotan’s hall, Valhalla, where he sits upon Hlidskjalf, his high seat, and surveys the universe. There, great heroes of ages past eat, drink, cavort, and enjoy the rewards of a good life. All this will end, however, for in the last days of the world when Ragnarök comes, these same heroes will fight in the vanguard of the shieldwall of the gods against the forces of evil and darkness.

The Vanir

The second vaettir of the gods of the Northlands is the Vanir. More directly associated with the features and inhabitants of Midgard, the world of mortals, the Vanir were defeated in a long-past war with the Æsir, the result of which was that the Æsir lifted them up to share their divinity over the mortals. Though less numerous than the Æsir in the number of Vanir universally recognized among the Northlanders, this is misleading because there are actually innumerable minor Vanir that receive occasional prayers or tributes by scattered mortals at appropriate times — crossing a specific raging river, felling a particularly large tree, laying the keel of a new ship, etc.

Freyja, Freya: Goddess of Love and Fertility
Freyr, Frey: God of the Sun and the Hunt
Njördr, Njor: God of Seafarers and Winds
Norns: Weavers of Fate
Rán: Goddess of the Pitiless Waves

The Ginnvaettir

The third family of divine beings recognized by the Northlanders is the Ginnvaettir. These are the demons of the ancient world, the inhabitants of the Ginnungagap, the primordial void between and below Midgard where howling chaos and eternal darkness reign. It was this void that existed before the creation of the world and the celestial realms of Asgard. And it is this void that continues to exist where the foul spirits and creatures of the universe lurk in their own depravity, banished from the light and condemned to forever strive to escape their mad existence and drag others into it with them. Only the foulest of mortal souls are consigned to the Ginnungagap, and those that are find the Ginnvaettir awaiting them there.

Hel: Goddess of Death
Surtr, Surter: God of the Fire Giants
Thrymr, Thrym: God of the Frost Giants
The Demon Cults

Ghostfoot

2018-05-10, 03:10 PM

Loot found:

What?
Where?
Notes

studded leather armor,
greataxe,
6 shortspears,
sap,
pouch with 4 hacksilver (ie 4 gp)

On Njarni the Traitor

Andøvan dagger (bronze +1 dagger),
Andøvan barrow charm (unidentified) - gifted to skeletal king,
ragged peasant’s outfit,
spell component pouch,
pouch with 26 hs and a chunk of amber with a large moth suspended in it (unappraised)

On Sibbe the Unkempt

each PC: a golden armband from Hastral the giant worth 300 hs
Given by Jarl Olaf Henrikson

2 stoppered gourds with strange-smelling liquid (elixir of swimming, elixir of hiding)

breastplate

heavy wooden shield

spear

battleaxe

pouch with 67 hs (gp)

On Styr the Ugly

bracers of armour +1

On Astrid the Mad

BelGareth

2018-05-10, 03:33 PM

Hope it's safe to post now :P

I'm thinking a Northlander with the Jarl's son trait or possibly a huscarl with the fighter ACF

https://i.imgur.com/XLIaWTP.png

Can we choose two traits from those listed, or only 1 and then another from a different list as usual?

Thinking Fighter, though, I'm wandering the shieldwall style of combat would be effective here? (also question for other players)

Ghostfoot

2018-05-10, 04:50 PM

I'm thinking a Northlander with the Jarl's son trait or possibly a huscarl with the fighter ACF
They're not mutually exclusive - you can do both! There's at least one jarl in the campaign that has a son as a huscarl.

Also there is a difference between huscarl as title/ role and huscarl as a class/ archetype. You can be a Fighter (Huscarl archetype) without necessarily being appointed as huscarl to a jarl. And barbarians/ rangers/ skalds etc can be appointed huscarls without having class levels in Fighter (Huscarl).

Can we choose two traits from those listed, or only 1 and then another from a different list as usual?
Both can be campaign traits if you want (OP updated)

Thinking Fighter, though, I'm wandering the shieldwall style of combat would be effective here? (also question for other players)
If you go Fighter (Huscarl) then your adjacent allies don't also need the Shieldwall feat in order for you to benefit from your Shieldwall feat (only a shield).

BelGareth

2018-05-11, 05:51 PM

Yay, campaign info!

I'll start reading, but I think, I might go the Huscarl route as discussed.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-11, 07:33 PM

Yay invitation! I’m down for this! Thinking of going with a Paladin or a Ranger.

BelGareth

2018-05-11, 11:26 PM

Would it be too much to play a young son of the Jarl?
Maybe a bastard son turned huscarl?

I was thinking under the tutelage of Hallbjorn Bolverkson?

Ghostfoot

2018-05-11, 11:57 PM

Would it be too much to play a young son of the Jarl?
Maybe a bastard son turned huscarl?
How about the bastard son of a different (but friendly) jarl, come to make a name for himself and ally the families? I can dig out a likely candidate from the lore if that works. Jarl Olaf cold work at a pinch but it'd require me to tweak a bit and who knows I might overlook something. Also here's the background from one of the pregen characters which may help:

Kolr (pronounced “Cole”) is a nephew of Jarl Olaf Henrikson. His father Hákon was Olaf’s youngest brother, though he died 12 winters ago from the slow fever. Kolr’s three older brothers and one older sister have all become members of Olaf’s household guard, with the oldest being named a huscarl. Kolr, only nineteen, is still too young for that honor but seeks to advance his name and reputation since reaching the age of manhood. For the last couple of years he has chafed at the slow pace of life at Silvermeade, and with the sudden death of the Køenig last year, he thought sure the turmoil to follow would bring excitement, but Jarl Olaf kept a firm hand on his household and prevented the hot-blooded young man from traveling to Halfstead where he might get into trouble. Now with spring finally come and the Jarl set to give out favors among his household for the new year, Kolr is hoping to be given the opportunity for glory and to begin his training as a huscarl to the Jarl.

I was thinking under the tutelage of Hallbjorn Bolverkson?
One-Eyed Sven will be a perfect mentor figure.

BelGareth

2018-05-12, 01:01 AM

Oh perfect, another jarl works fine, would you prefer I make one or you dig one up?

Ghostfoot

2018-05-12, 04:48 AM

Oh perfect, another jarl works fine, would you prefer I make one or you dig one up?

On reflection probably simplest if you invent one yourself.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-13, 06:38 PM

Yay setting details! I’m leaning towards playing a Nuk Spell-less Ranger (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/3rd-party-classes/kobold-press-open-design/spell-less-ranger/), attached to the hall of the Jarl for the past few years. The logic and backstory of it is still forming in my mind, but figured I’d give some details.

Ghostfoot

2018-05-14, 03:09 AM

Nice. I hadn't spotted that alternate ranger class, but it looks perfect.

I'm not sure if it helps or hinders, but here's he backstory for the only Nûk pregen:

The Nûklanders name is unpronounceable to the Northlanders of Jarl Olaf’s hold, but he enjoys hearing the word-song of his name said in their language as well and so does not correct them. Breaks-the-Sky is a member of the Nûk tribes of the frozen tundra in far Nûkland. A rarity among the Northlands, he made his way south across the peaks of Vastavikland and the forests of Seagestreland on a spirit journey before finally arriving at the Jarl’s hall in the midst of a blizzard. It has been a great honor for Jarl Olaf to host the exotic Nûklander in his hall for the winter, and Breaks-the-Sky has enjoyed the status of a favored, if curious, guest. Now, however, since Breaks-the-Sky has shared the Jarl’s hearth-meat he owes service in return and seeks a way to repay the Jarl as he continues his spirit journey.

...and fyi Nûk tend to be pretty low-tech so hide armour, dagger, javelin, shortbow, spear is pretty typical when in their home environment.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-14, 09:43 AM

Hmmm ok looking at the setting info, there isn’t much in the Traits that would serve a Nuklander. Maybe child of Heroes?

In terms of Deities, is Ullr ok to add to the list, maybe as a Northern or Nuk deity? I’m planning on making a versatile ranger that can tangle at range or up close.

Also: I’m guessing that favored enemy Human is probably a solid choice?

Edit the Second: After doing some looking, would the Dual-Style Ranger be acceptable? Basically, it means I only get 1 favored enemy, but I get double feats at every combat style level (one from each). IF approved, could I go with Two-handed as one, and Archery as the other?

Ghostfoot

2018-05-15, 05:21 AM

Hmmm ok looking at the setting info, there isn’t much in the Traits that would serve a Nuklander. Maybe child of Heroes?
Very true, not many relevant campaign traits for non-Northlanders. You can take non-campaign traits if you would prefer.

In terms of Deities, is Ullr ok to add to the list, maybe as a Northern or Nuk deity? I’m planning on making a versatile ranger that can tangle at range or up close.
Could do, although Nuk tend to worship animism/ animal spirits rather than gods (who allegedly betrayed them). If you're going Spell-less ranger it'll have little impact beyond fluff anyway.

Also: I’m guessing that favored enemy Human is probably a solid choice?
Always a solid choice, and particularly so here :smallsmile:

Edit the Second: After doing some looking, would the Dual-Style Ranger be acceptable? Basically, it means I only get 1 favored enemy, but I get double feats at every combat style level (one from each). IF approved, could I go with Two-handed as one, and Archery as the other?
Yes and yes. Dual-Style (2-hander + archery) is fine.

BelGareth

2018-05-15, 11:04 AM

Speaking of, are we going to be doing combat/battle against mostly humanoids with the odd assortment of monsters?

or is that a, play and find out kind of thing?

Ghostfoot

2018-05-15, 02:12 PM

Speaking of, are we going to be doing combat/battle against mostly humanoids with the odd assortment of monsters?

or is that a, play and find out kind of thing?

There's certainly a lot of humans (raiders/ factions etc) & animals ("megafauna") to be encountered. There are no orcs/ goblins/ kobolds etc in the Northlands but an abundance of trolls & giants inhabit the wilds. Layer on to that some biga$$ monsters for bada$$ heroes to confront, and for the skalds to sing of, and you pretty much have this campaign.

BelGareth

2018-05-15, 04:43 PM

There's certainly a lot of humans (raiders/ factions etc) & animals ("megafauna") to be encountered. There are no orcs/ goblins/ kobolds etc in the Northlands but an abundance of trolls & giants inhabit the wilds. Layer on to that some biga$$ monsters for bada$$ heroes to confront, and for the skalds to sing of, and you pretty much have this campaign.

Nice, thats good to know.

I'm still seriously considering doing a half breed, but the huscarl bastard son is calling to me as well...(iv'e considered doing both)....

Ghostfoot

2018-05-15, 05:29 PM

I have mixed feelings about those new half-human options. I see how they're trying to add diversity/ flavour but then again there already seems to be plenty to work with. Plus I just have a personal preference (as a player) for human characters.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-16, 01:01 PM

I hope you're OK with a nuk, then? I could switch to Norlander (and yay extra feat), but I think being a nuklander really fits.

Trying to think of a good two-hander for Dark Dreams Wanderer (Mørkedrømevandrer) to wield. SRD has an Earth Breaker, apparently a rough heavy iron hammer. I thought that might be good, or would you have a suggestion? I mean, Greatsword is good, but I like the rough aspect of the Earth Breaker (and the fact that it's called an Earth Breaker doesn't hurt).

Another character generation question: Mørkedrømevandrer is a bowyer, part of the old worship of Ullr (more backstory to come). I would like to start with a masterwork Bowyer's (bow-maker's) kit, and use that to have crafted a Longbow. Net cost of the two is the same as a Longbow, and with or without the tools I can make the DC to craft by taking 10.

Trying to figure out what traits to take. Taking one to reduce Armor Penalties (Armor Expert), but I'd like to find one that ties me to the world a bit. Maybe....

Old Gods Follower: Whether devout or not, you have learned and know the ways of the Old Gods. These are the fathers of the current gods, forgotten elders that dwelt in hill and glen instead of hall and town. You gain a +1 Trait Bonus to Knowledge Religion, and it is always a class skill for you. Additionally, you gain a +1 trait bonus to two of the following skills: Perception, Craft, Perform (Oratory), Survival.

DrK

2018-05-16, 01:06 PM

Thanks Ghostfoot. I like vikings.
I'll start reading up on it, possibly as a cleric or druid to give some magical support and healing.

BelGareth

2018-05-16, 02:00 PM

WIP for Gunnar Hallvard (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1585861), trusted warrior of Jarl Olaf

I went with a landowner instead, who was the child of heroes.

Went Slayer route, because of the sweet skill points, and the vanguard ACf seems to fit very well.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-16, 02:50 PM

Dark Dreams Wanderer (Mørkedrømevandrer) (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1583859) is mechanically done I think, pending confirmation on my enquiries above.

Backstory is pretty much done in my head, just need to translate it into writing.

Anyone have a good image of a nordic elf with a silver/white mohawk (more meaning shaved sides of head, not super spikey hair).

Ghostfoot

2018-05-16, 04:05 PM

Looking good, team! (& welcome, DrK!)

I hope you're OK with a nuk, then? I could switch to Norlander (and yay extra feat), but I think being a nuklander really fits.
Nûk is totally fine. As is X-blooded, to be honest. That's just me bringing my own player-bias to the table.

Trying to think of a good two-hander for Dark Dreams Wanderer (Mørkedrømevandrer) to wield. SRD has an Earth Breaker, apparently a rough heavy iron hammer. I thought that might be good, or would you have a suggestion? I mean, Greatsword is good, but I like the rough aspect of the Earth Breaker (and the fact that it's called an Earth Breaker doesn't hurt).
Harpoon? Spear? Both have flavour but I suspect not as optimal as you'd like.

Another character generation question: Mørkedrømevandrer is a bowyer, part of the old worship of Ullr (more backstory to come). I would like to start with a masterwork Bowyer's (bow-maker's) kit, and use that to have crafted a Longbow. Net cost of the two is the same as a Longbow, and with or without the tools I can make the DC to craft by taking 10.

Seems reasonable to me. That won't break the game.

PS also note Nûk have Elemental Resistance (cold) instead of Elven Immunities.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-16, 07:00 PM

Looking good, team! (& welcome, DrK!)

Nûk is totally fine. As is X-blooded, to be honest. That's just me bringing my own player-bias to the table.

Harpoon? Spear? Both have flavour but I suspect not as optimal as you'd like.

Seems reasonable to me. That won't break the game.

PS also note Nûk have Elemental Resistance (cold) instead of Elven Immunities.

Glad to hear that Nuk is ok (sorry I keep leaving out the accent, hard to use on my phone).

I’m honestly not aiming too hard at optimal, just playing with the mental image I had of this wild northern warrior with a complex background, who venerates the animals but is also seeking out the lore and history of one of the old gods, Ullr. Part of that image was this fluid combat style that switches between a bow and some sort of heavy weapon. My mental image was actually a heavy pole or blade made of wood or bone with jagged spikes/edges. I think the harpoon idea might actually fit quite well, has the same raw feel and could easily be said to be made of wood and bone.

I’ll update the immunities to cold resistance. Any thoughts on the trait? I modeled it after one of the sailor ones, but I can go with something more generic if that’s better.

Edit: I think Harpoon is an exotic weapon, not sure I’m proficient out the gates with it.

Ghostfoot

2018-05-18, 01:56 AM

Any thoughts on the trait? I modeled it after one of the sailor ones, but I can go with something more generic if that’s better.
Yeah that's all fine. Sorry I didn't realise you'd built your own. Looks really good.

I think Harpoon is an exotic weapon, not sure I’m proficient out the gates with it.
I guess not. There's a new hammer (greathammer) included in the campaign setting but it's inferior in every way to an earth breaker so no point in me recommending it as a substitute. Big hammers are a thing so earth breaker might be "the one".

PeacefulOak

2018-05-18, 02:05 PM

And also it is exotic. I find it odd how things get listed as Exotic sometimes, for little reason.

So, I've been doing some looking about on things that meet with the near-stone-age feel for the Nuk. I found this (http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/ultimateCombat/combat/primitiveArmorAndWeapons.html), which lists a variety of weapons.

Then a google image search found.... this:

https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/370627573626961920/447104343284383745/images.png

Which just looks awesome and savage. I'm thinking it's like a Great Terbutje (Martial 2-handed, 1d10 19-20 x2, Slashing), and it would be a great fit for the character. Is this a better fit?

Ghostfoot

2018-05-18, 03:09 PM

I think the simple answer is, if it works for you, do it.

Greatswords, greathammers & greatclubs are all a good fit in the wider setting, and both earth breaker & great terbutje would fit alongside pretty easily.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-18, 06:03 PM

As his mother would frequently point out, the boy had been large ever since he entered the sunlight. Born on the Dusk-day, the day when the eternal day ends and the eternal night begins, the boy was considered ill-omened from the start. He grew swiftly and worked hard to make himself useful to the clan, learning to venerate the spirits of earth and stone, rain and wind, and the Great Animal Spirits that protect and shelter the People of the Reindeer. Before too long (as the Nûk count time), the boy had grown to stand easily a head taller than the average Nûk and was learning to hunt and gather in the ways of the People. The boy did not question his position in the clan or his lack of a name. It was the way of his tribe that one ill-fated would not be named until the shoulder-women of the tribe saw the truth of that one's path.

On what for most would be their fiftieth naming-day, and for the boy was his fiftieth Dusk-day, a vision was shared between the boy and the oldest shoulder-woman of the tribe. The vision began, as most do, with the massive shadow of the traitor god leading the People to the land of Day and Night. The shadow faded, and left behind were the People. From among them rose one who stood tall and proud, even as the sky opened and raindrops of steel fell to the earth, destroying the land piece by piece. FLICKER The vision again, this time the land is dark and the traitor god's shadow is one of brilliant light, and the tall Person who rose strode forth from the people.... and the iron rain fell away from the People's land.

They both awoke with a gasp, and from the lips of the shoulder-woman came the name the boy would carry out into the world: Mørkedrømevandrer, the Dark Dreams Wanderer. It was clear that Mørkedrømevandrer would have to leave the people and learn the ways of the wild and rough folk of the southlands to prevent catastrophe for all. In the minds of the Nûk time is a fluid thing. The following six and a half decades were spent learning the ways of the southlanders. One of the greatest discoveries he made was a rarely referenced deity called Ullr, a god of the woods and wild things, a god of hunting and just battle, a god that was the foundation of honor. He spoke nothing of this to his people, for they held a deep fear of the worship of gods, but he learned.

Before the winter, the Wanderer journeyed forth from his people and found himself wintering in the household of a powerful and respected Jarl. Demonstrating his worth as a hunter and provider for the Jarl, he was allowed to stay and gained some small respect among these people, for whom he held little regard but much understanding.

~~~

Fluff done, I think.

PeacefulOak

2018-05-23, 04:11 PM

Any thoughts on the backstory? Too much, too little.... too weird?

Ghostfoot

2018-05-24, 01:12 AM

Any thoughts on the backstory? Too much, too little.... too weird?

Looks good to me! :smallsmile:

Ghostfoot

2018-05-25, 04:29 PM

Just to keep you updated, I've sent a few player invites out over the last week, waiting on responses.

Dexam

2018-05-28, 05:05 AM

Ghostfoot

2018-05-28, 07:02 AM

Greetings all, Ghostfoot has invited me to join this game.

I'm currently looking at a Northlander with some variation of skald: either the Bard class with Skald campaign setting archetype; or the Skald class with the Dragon Skald (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/skald/archetypes/paizo-skald-archetypes/dragon-skald-skald-archetype) archetype.

The character would most likely be an apprentice of Ari Hrokson or Grimr Wisetooth; the big question is whether or not someone would be in a position to teach the character magic - the Bard (Skald) archetype is spell-less and replaces spellcasting with bonus Combat feats.

Also, I don't have a great deal of experience with Pathfinder, so any advice from more experienced players would be greatly appreciated.

Hey Dex, welcome!

A bard or skald to record (and commit) deeds of heroism sounds neat.

Let's say the mentor is Grimr Wisetooth. In this campaign setting bards & skalds tent toward covert/ discrete spellcasting (if any). Overt displays of high magic are often met with violent superstition (although in the heat of battle a few buffs here and there are fine and ignored as adrenaline etc by all involved). So any mentor will be focused on the non-magic aspects of the calling, and any magical aspects can be considered inherent rather than trained.

The reviews/ forums tell me that bard (skald) is less powerful than skald (dragon skald) due to the loss of spellcasting, which makes sense since optimizing 101 seems to be 'don't give up spellcasting'. Doesn't mean it is less fun to play though, just depends on how you feel about each offering. I'm fine with either.

Dexam

2018-05-29, 04:39 AM

Hey Dex, welcome!
Cheers! Glad to be aboard!

A bard or skald to record (and commit) deeds of heroism sounds neat.

Let's say the mentor is Grimr Wisetooth. In this campaign setting bards & skalds tent toward covert/ discrete spellcasting (if any). Overt displays of high magic are often met with violent superstition (although in the heat of battle a few buffs here and there are fine and ignored as adrenaline etc by all involved). So any mentor will be focused on the non-magic aspects of the calling, and any magical aspects can be considered inherent rather than trained.

The reviews/ forums tell me that bard (skald) is less powerful than skald (dragon skald) due to the loss of spellcasting, which makes sense since optimizing 101 seems to be 'don't give up spellcasting'. Doesn't mean it is less fun to play though, just depends on how you feel about each offering. I'm fine with either.
Looking over the campaign info, I'd already come to the conclusion that no casting or subtle spells are the preferred options. In some ways that makes the potential selection of spells a lot easier - anything distinctive or flashy can immediately be discarded. However, the Dragon Skald has to take Alter Wind, Obscuring Mist, and Fog Cloud as their initial spell selections, and fog/mist conjuring could be hard to explain away.

I'm currently leaning for Dragon Skald over Bard Skald. Even discounting spellcasting (or lack thereof), there are a lot of Bard class abilities that I doubt would see much use (Countersong, Distraction, Fascinate, Well Versed). Being a viking-inspired setting, I'm assuming that there will be some longboat travel at some point? Otherwise "Sea Legs" replacing Bardic Knowledge becomes a bit of a wasted class ability.

That said, looking over some of the other setting info, the Spear Maiden Paladin archetype looks interesting as well... decisions, decisions. :smallconfused:

PeacefulOak

2018-05-29, 10:21 AM

Cheers! Glad to be aboard!

Looking over the campaign info, I'd already come to the conclusion that no casting or subtle spells are the preferred options. In some ways that makes the potential selection of spells a lot easier - anything distinctive or flashy can immediately be discarded. However, the Dragon Skald has to take Alter Wind, Obscuring Mist, and Fog Cloud as their initial spell selections, and fog/mist conjuring could be hard to explain away.

I'm currently leaning for Dragon Skald over Bard Skald. Even discounting spellcasting (or lack thereof), there are a lot of Bard class abilities that I doubt would see much use (Countersong, Distraction, Fascinate, Well Versed). Being a viking-inspired setting, I'm assuming that there will be some longboat travel at some point? Otherwise "Sea Legs" replacing Bardic Knowledge becomes a bit of a wasted class ability.

That said, looking over some of the other setting info, the Spear Maiden Paladin archetype looks interesting as well... decisions, decisions. :smallconfused:

Welcome indeed!

I was hesitating between Spear Maiden and my final decision as well. I'm certain some front-line would be well suited, and a little bit of arcane support also wouldn't go awry. :)

Ghostfoot

2018-05-29, 04:25 PM

However, the Dragon Skald has to take Alter Wind, Obscuring Mist, and Fog Cloud as their initial spell selections, and fog/mist conjuring could be hard to explain away.

I read it as these spells are totally optional - they're added to the list of spells that you can choose to have as 'spells known', but must still be chosen as normal (at your discretion).

I do think that beating a war drum that tames the wind spirits would be culturally acceptable though (vs say, summoning a celestial meat shield or casting burning hands).

I'm currently leaning for Dragon Skald over Bard Skald. Even discounting spellcasting (or lack thereof), there are a lot of Bard class abilities that I doubt would see much use (Countersong, Distraction, Fascinate, Well Versed). Being a viking-inspired setting, I'm assuming that there will be some longboat travel at some point? Otherwise "Sea Legs" replacing Bardic Knowledge becomes a bit of a wasted class ability.

There will be a number of sea voyages, so Sea Legs will not be wasted.

That said, looking over some of the other setting info, the Spear Maiden Paladin archetype looks interesting as well... decisions, decisions. :smallconfused:

Yep, also a solid & fun choice...

BelGareth

2018-05-29, 05:21 PM

Welcome!

And is good to know about the sea voyages!

PeacefulOak

2018-05-29, 05:28 PM

Welcome!

And is good to know about the sea voyages!

But will there be Sea Turtles? *does best pirate voice*

missmvicious

2018-05-30, 09:42 AM

Hey guys, I also got an invite. This looks like its gonna be cool. I haven't tried pathfinder before so I might need a little help with the build. Fortunately I am off today so post physical therapy I'm gonna get going on my character sheet. Any suggestions for like a good first time pathfinder character?

Dexam

2018-05-31, 01:05 AM

Hello and welcome missmvicious.

I'm fairly new to Pathfinder as well, but from what I can tell it's basically 3.5E D&D with some tweaking. So I guess a lot depends on how familiar you are with 3.5E, but one of the things I've already noticed is to be careful with assumptions and to double-check how things work - things like class abilities, skills, and feats that are in both Pathfinder and 3.5 can work somewhat differently in Pathfinder.

As for a character, non-spellcasting classes are usually easier to build/play (from a purely game mechanics & book-keeping perspective) than casting classes. My usual recommendation is to tell us about a character concept that you're interested in playing, and we can suggest some different options that might useful in building towards the concept. Having a read through the campaign info (here (http://paizo.com/campaigns/TheNorthlandsSaga9qk59) and here (http://paizo.com/people/Nilihist)) might give you some character ideas.

BelGareth

2018-05-31, 03:27 PM

Weclome!

I'm pretty familiar with PF, most major changes were to classes, and the focus on staying in one class, and some spellcasting, if you ignore spellcasting, you should be good.

d20pfsrd.com is pretty complete.

Don't forget Favored class bonuses though, when you start at 1st level, you choose a favorite class (some races can have more), and whenever you take a level in that class, you can choose a benefit (some classes have racial specific ones), +1 skill, or +1HP.

This (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/basics-ability-scores/character-creation) covers the majority of what you need, point buy has changed (from 8's to 10's) and therefore is usually lower, Races are more powerful, etc....

Ghostfoot

2018-05-31, 04:25 PM

I'm a relative rookie with PF too. I've been playing an inquisitor character in a weekly game for the last 12 months but I've never DM'd a game before.

I agree that the biggest changes seem to be in the classes. Not massive changes to the 'feel' of the classes, but certainly additional or slightly altered class abilities. Also multiclassing/ dipping seems to be less appealing, and prestige classes have been somewhat superseded by archetypes which tweak a class right from level 1 all the way through (as opposed to having to prepare your build and then switch to the PrC later).

I think the best thing is to think of a concept and we can all pitch in to help with any technical or build questions to make it work.

I don't even think that PF spellcasting is too big of a leap to be honest. At level 1 the options are pretty limited, and there is plenty of time to learn the rest as you go.

BelGareth

2018-05-31, 06:21 PM

Ghostfoot

2018-06-07, 03:08 AM

How are we going with those character concepts, team? I don't need completed sheets yet but it'd be nice to get a feel for what the party might look like.

Dexam

2018-06-07, 05:05 AM

I have a partially completed build for my Dragon Skald (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1599152).

I'm looking for advice on:

- Traits: I've already taken Child of Heroes for extra skill points; I'm working with the idea that my character is the son of a (semi-)famous explorer and/or longboat captain, hence the rank in Profession (Sailor) and Linguistics. What is another good/appropriate choice?

- Feats: I've selected Skald's Vigor (with the intent to eventually take Greater Skald's Vigor); looking for at least one other option. Does Raging Song count towards feats that require Bardic Performance e.g. Extra Performance, Lingering Performance? The class ability says "A raging song counts as the bard’s bardic performance special ability for any effect that affects bardic performances.", so I'm assuming so.

- Spells: I've selected Daze, Know Direction, Mending, and Resistance for cantrips; and so far Restful Sleep for 1st; I need another 1st. Any suggestions/substitutions?

DrK

2018-06-17, 02:37 PM

So slow on the uptake. Here is giant blooded shield maiden of Wotan.
Background and gear to do

But here is Freyja Skirlaug (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1617432)
F LG Jotun (Giant blooded) Paladin (Shield maiden) 1 , Level 1, Init 1, HP 12/12, Speed 40
AC 13, Touch 10, Flat-footed 12, CMD 17, Fort 4, Ref 1, Will 1, CMB +6, Base Attack Bonus 1
Reach Longspear +5 (2d6+4, X3)
Battle axe +4 (2d6+4, X3)
Heavy wooden shield (+3 Shield, +1 Dex, -1 Size)
Abilities Str 18, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 8, Cha 13
Condition None

Ghostfoot

2018-06-20, 05:45 AM

A viking skald and a giantess who follows Wotan/Odin the god of wisdom & madness - looks like this is going to be fun!

How is everyone placed to get character generation pretty much finalised by the end of this coming weekend?

Does Raging Song count towards feats that require Bardic Performance e.g. Extra Performance, Lingering Performance? The class ability says "A raging song counts as the bard’s bardic performance special ability for any effect that affects bardic performances.", so I'm assuming so.
That sounds correct to me.

BelGareth

2018-06-20, 10:15 AM

I've been stalling, but the mechanics are there, I'll try to finish up fluff.

Dexam

2018-06-20, 10:24 PM

A viking skald and a giantess who follows Wotan/Odin the god of wisdom & madness - looks like this is going to be fun!

How is everyone placed to get character generation pretty much finalised by the end of this coming weekend?

My apologies, I've been struggling to find enthusiasm with just about everything lately; I blame this time of year - I hate winter. :smallyuk:

I was also hoping for some feedback on my requests for advice, but I've done some updates anyway:
- selected Extra Performance for additional Feat;
- taken Rune Reader as second Trait (figured that my skald should know how to read and write, and record our exploits for the ages);
- taken rank out of Linguistics (no longer required with Rune Reader Trait) and moved it to Knowledge (Geography);
- taken Cause Fear as additional spell (masked as a battle cry so fearsome that it makes enemies shake and/or run);
- purchased weapons, armour, and shield;
- given my character a name (Skorri Erlenson).

I'm still open to advice/suggestions.

Still need to purchase additional equipment, find a picture, and work on background/personality (other than being the child of a famous traveller, and being an apprentice skald). Mechanically should be good to go:

Skorri Erlenson (http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1599152)
Male N Northlander Skald (Dragon Skald), Level 1, Init 2, HP 9/9, Speed 30'
AC 17, Touch 12, Flat-footed 15, CMD 14, Fort 3, Ref 2, Will 1, CMB +2, Base Attack Bonus 0
Battleaxe +2 (1d8+2, ×3)
Shortbow (Arrows (20)) +2 (1d6, ×3)
Shortspear +2 (1d6+2, ×2)
Studded leather , Heavy wooden shield (+3 Armor, +2 Shield, +2 Dex)
Abilities Str 14, Dex 14, Con 13, Int 12, Wis 8, Cha 14
Condition None

Ghostfoot

2018-06-20, 11:17 PM

My apologies, I've been struggling to find enthusiasm with just about everything lately; I blame this time of year - I hate winter. :smallyuk:

I was also hoping for some feedback on my requests for advice, but I've done some updates anyway:

Yep, I feel you. Coldest day of the year today (so far).

I'm not going to be much better than you on build, but all looks fine from a flavour point of view.

If you want a wider set of traits to choose from there are a bunch (a huge number) on the PFSRD (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/traits/), many of which will be suitable for this campaign.

BelGareth

2018-06-23, 01:42 PM

I was not able to finish my character, I'll try my best to get it done asap

Ghostfoot

2018-06-23, 08:16 PM

Don't sweat it. I'm keen to start but don't want to rush you guys if you need a bit more time.

BelGareth

2018-06-25, 11:26 AM

Ok, mechanically done.

Will need to write up a backstory, but he's a local landowner (Hirdman) who is loyal to jarl Henrikson, his parents having been heroes who adventured with the Jarl.

Ghostfoot

2018-06-27, 05:38 AM

Feels like we still need a bit longer for everyone to finalize characters. Bel's going to be away until the 7th so how about we aim to kick off around then - sound like a plan?

Sill waiting on missmvicious to join, and depending on what the end party makeup is I might throw in an NPC to pad out the overall party capabilities.

PeacefulOak

2018-06-27, 12:03 PM

I'm down with that. :)

DrK

2018-06-28, 01:01 AM

Aside from adding a little more fluffy the shield maiden is ready to roll

Ghostfoot

2018-07-07, 06:32 AM

PeacefulOak

2018-07-10, 10:26 AM

We didn't pick colors. I officially pick whatever color I used IC. :P

BelGareth

2018-07-10, 10:49 AM

Okay team, we're live :smallsmile:. I'm looking forward to this one!

IC thread is here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?563204-The-Northlands-Saga-Spears-in-the-Ice-IC). A nice little level 1 intro to the epic Northlands saga.

Any questions just let me know. I'm sure I've overlooked something.
Ghost, can you put that link in the OP please?

We didn't pick colors. I officially pick whatever color I used IC. :P

Oh yeah! I'll grab Bold Red

Ghostfoot

2018-07-11, 05:38 AM

Ghost, can you put that link in the OP please?

Done.

I'll go DM Blue

Dexam

2018-07-13, 04:53 AM

Sorry for the delay; it's been a hectic week.
My IC post is now up, and I'm taking teal for speech colour.

Ghostfoot

2018-07-14, 09:22 PM

A note on purchasing Magic Items and Services in the Northlands:

There are no Magic Marts in this game.

If you have a strong desire for a particular item, let me know and I might place it as part of a loot haul, or place a supplier.

Certain items will be available but not always to be simply purchased.

First a supplier must be located - e.g. an appropriate cunning woman, godi (cleric) or master weaponsmith.
Then the supplier might require tasks to be performed to 'earn' the items in question, rather than a simple monetary transaction.

The more wondrous the item in question, the more difficult or improbable it will be to source.

Signy Stone-Eye will gain access to cure spells from level 3 as part of her cunning woman bloodline, so she will be able to act as party healer from that point.

Dexam

2018-07-19, 02:52 AM

Ghostfoot

2018-07-21, 09:05 PM

In the meantime, assuming that PC's don't get too badly wounded, Skorri can use Restful Sleep to double natural healing, so there is that... although it is extremely meh at low levels; in fact, it's only around level 3 that it starts to equal or exceed Cure Light Would in terms of total HP healed. I'm just wondering if I should switch out Restful Sleep for CLW, and take Restful Sleep at level 3 or later? Thoughts?

My 2-cents as DM, looking at what the adventure holds in the early levels, unless you go really off-piste CLW is going to get more use than Restful Sleep.

Also, regarding Magic Items etc., I'd always assumed that magic items would be in short supply for this game; though how would you feel about Skorri crafting magic items for himself and others? I'm thinking mostly Craft Magic Arms & Armour - I'm having ideas of him etching Runes of PowerTM into weapons/shields/armour while reciting tales of Epic Heroism... or is this too obvious in terms of use of magic? At any rate, it's not something that would come up until at least Level 6, so plenty of time to think about it.

I'm totally fine if PC's want to take Crafting feats. There will be plenty of downtime between (& sometimes within) adventures to do so. With overtly magical/ wondrous items you'll just need to be mindful of the reactions of others - a low-level unknown who climbs walls with slippers of spider climbing will possibly be viewed as a demon-spawned trickster whereas a renowned hero with a flaming sword is more likely to be viewed as truly blessed by the gods themselves. Heck, s/he probably wrestled it from the gods in a test of mettle.

Summoning magic in particular is generally viewed as universally intolerable.

Dexam

2018-07-24, 04:19 AM

My 2-cents as DM, looking at what the adventure holds in the early levels, unless you go really off-piste CLW is going to get more use than Restful Sleep.
Okay, updated Restful Sleep to CLW - I'll just have to try to be careful/subtle with any casting.

I'm totally fine if PC's want to take Crafting feats. There will be plenty of downtime between (& sometimes within) adventures to do so. With overtly magical/ wondrous items you'll just need to be mindful of the reactions of others - a low-level unknown who climbs walls with slippers of spider climbing will possibly be viewed as a demon-spawned trickster whereas a renowned hero with a flaming sword is more likely to be viewed as truly blessed by the gods themselves. Heck, s/he probably wrestled it from the gods in a test of mettle.
It's the reactions of others to the crafting of magic items that concerns me. If my character goes into a forge and walks out a week later with glowing spear and magic helmet, are others going to be okay with it? Or will they start reaching for torches and their favourite lynching ropes?

Ghostfoot

2018-08-21, 05:53 AM

I feel bad attacking you with a ditch at level 1. Let's make the falling damage nonlethal (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/combat/#TOC-Nonlethal-Damage).

Ghostfoot

2018-09-15, 05:07 AM

I hope you guys are okay with how this game is going...I quite like that it has a few skill challenges and interactions to start with since you're squishy level 1's but I promise we'll have some real action pretty soon.

BelGareth

2018-09-15, 01:01 PM

Oh man, i totally forgot to post!!!

will do

DrK

2018-09-15, 02:29 PM

Did I miss an IC post?

Edit: yes, yes I did.

PeacefulOak

2018-09-17, 02:32 PM

I certainly am enjoying the game!

I’m excited to see where this goes!

Ghostfoot

2018-09-18, 05:21 AM

Phew! I got busy for a bit and when I came back wondered if everyone had unsubscribed :smalleek:.

But no problem, a gentle pace will work best for me. I've got an after-work team dinner tomorrow so will be back with you again in a couple of days.

Ghostfoot

2018-09-22, 05:34 AM

I don't mind if you want to interact more with One-Eyed Sven before we move on - just let me know and I'll tweak the description. I figured just easier to keep things moving as a default right now.

Dexam

2018-09-28, 03:12 AM

8, 9, 10... The RNG has a sense of humour.

BelGareth

2018-10-08, 11:35 AM

Dang, that is one hell of a boon.

Nice!

PeacefulOak

2018-10-08, 11:47 AM

Agreed. Oh! I owe this game a post.

Dexam

2018-10-09, 01:19 AM

Given my usual luck with rolls, that boon is going to come in very handy.

DrK

2018-10-09, 01:44 AM

Given my usual luck with rolls, that boon is going to come in very handy.

That's what I thought as well.

BelGareth

2018-10-09, 10:12 AM

That's what I thought as well.

Do you mean Dexam's, or yours? :P

Dexam

2018-10-09, 10:11 PM

Do you mean Dexam's, or yours? :P

http://www.reactiongifs.com/r/bth.gif

:smalltongue:

Ghostfoot

2018-10-31, 11:26 PM

I'm aiming to update in a few hours, if anyone else wants to act first...:smallsmile:

DrK

2018-11-01, 04:41 AM

I'm aiming to update in a few hours, if anyone else wants to act first...:smallsmile:

Nope, Freyja is happy to ignore a small yappy dog

Ghostfoot

2018-11-02, 04:11 PM

I know we've only really just started this game, and I don't like to tinker with the rules every 5 minutes, but I recently became aware of the background skills (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/skills/background-skills) variant rules and thought that they looked quite cool.

Basically each character would receive +2 skill points per level to spend on (arguably) less useful skills that add flavour/ depth.

Keen?

PeacefulOak

2018-11-02, 06:19 PM

More skill points for flavor is good. :) I rarely argue with more skill points.

DrK

2018-11-03, 05:15 AM

Yes! As a low skill point character anything that helps would be great

Ghostfoot

2018-11-04, 01:43 AM

Cool, let's do it then.

Let me know if you have any questions/ confusion with it. I've updated DMPC Signy so you can copy what I've done if you want.

Dexam

2018-11-05, 09:45 AM

I already have some background skills built into my character, but as a more skilled class, I could afford to do it. I guess this means that I have two more skill ranks to spend.

Ghostfoot

2018-11-05, 12:47 PM

I already have some background skills built into my character, but as a more skilled class, I could afford to do it. I guess this means that I have two more skill ranks to spend.

Yeah that sounds right. You can always spend 'normal' skill points on background skills if you want. Basically each level you get 2 extra skill points, and each level you must spend minimum 2 skill points on background skills.

Dexam

2018-11-18, 11:21 PM

Well, this is an interesting development... :smalleek:

Ghostfoot

2018-11-19, 02:39 AM

Well, this is an interesting development... :smalleek:

Can't have you just prancing round meadows making skill checks all campaign :smallwink:

DrK

2018-11-19, 04:59 AM

Can't have you just prancing round meadows making skill checks all campaign :smallwink:

I was enjoying the gentle moving carts, picking flowers and petting stray dogs. It felt much safer!

PeacefulOak

2018-11-19, 11:28 AM

Now we have a hard decision. Attempt to pursue, or return and report.

DrK

2018-11-19, 12:01 PM

Now we have a hard decision. Attempt to pursue, or return and report.

Pursue! Better try and fail than not try

BelGareth

2018-11-19, 12:48 PM

ouch, we need someone to track em, up and at em Peaceful!

Ghostfoot

2018-11-19, 12:58 PM

Signy the only daughter left.

Signy is your DMPC. So no daughters left!

BelGareth

2018-11-19, 01:00 PM

WE MUST AVENGE OUR HONOR, AND THE JARLS HONOR (also, he might kill us if we return without them)

FIND THEM OR VALHALLA!

Ghostfoot

2018-11-19, 01:03 PM

WE MUST AVENGE OUR HONOR, AND THE JARLS HONOR (also, he might kill us if we return without them)

FIND THEM OR VALHALLA!

definitely this sums up the spirit of the campaign!

PF so this is survival right?

Survival - (1d20+4)[7]

yep that's the one. just roll higher :-)

BelGareth

2018-11-19, 01:18 PM

definitely this sums up the spirit of the campaign!

yep that's the one. just roll higher :-)

just roll higher, lol, story of my life!

THEN IT IS VALHALLA!

(side note, Last kingdom season 3 just came out on netflix, woot!)

PeacefulOak

2018-11-19, 02:09 PM

Ghostfoot

2018-11-19, 03:16 PM

Ok, totally mean question here.... but could I have used Odin's Blessing to reroll that Will Save?

I'm fine with having failed if that makes the plot easier, but I totally would have done it given the option.

Fair question - you could have used it, and perhaps have endured a round or two longer, but would have eventually succumbed (ongoing effect, DC increases each round, and also the event is important to the plot).

Then I would have given you back your Odin's Blessing in the spirit of fairness.

I figured it simpler to cut-out the rerolling. Here it is, for completeness:

Round 1
Will DC15 or sleep (Odin's Blessing reroll)
Gunnar (1d20)[5]
DDW (1d20+1)[21]
Freyja (1d20+1)[20]
Skorri (1d20+1)[16]
Signy (1d20+2)[3]

Round 2
Will DC16 or sleep
DDW (1d20+1)[15]
Freyja (1d20+1)[9]
Skorri (1d20+1)[17]

Round 3
Will DC17 or sleep
Skorri (1d20+1)[19]

Round 4
Will DC18 or sleep
Skorri (1d20+1)[9]

BelGareth

2018-11-19, 05:14 PM

DM cast's impending doom!

it has a scaling DC!

Pwned!

Ah well, worth a try. Let's go get our Honor back!

Dexam

2018-11-22, 04:30 AM

Skorri could've totally taken out all the enemies by himself in just 3 rounds~ :smalltongue:

The sensible thing to do would be to let the jarl know what has happened... *eyes Wisdom score*... LEROY JENKINS!!!

:smallbiggrin:

PeacefulOak

2018-11-22, 12:14 PM

So that natural 1 was BS, so here goes a Boon Roll!

[roll0]

Ghostfoot

2018-11-25, 05:48 AM

So that natural 1 was BS, so here goes a Boon Roll!

[roll0]

Glad someone managed the DC12!!

PeacefulOak

2018-11-25, 04:05 PM

And DDW’s great rolling trend continues! ><

Ghostfoot

2018-11-26, 04:02 AM

Do I know if the hills will be easier to pass on horseback than the fens?

Travelling through the Moors should be quicker than winding through the Hills.

PeacefulOak

2018-11-26, 09:29 AM

Ok, thanks. I was thinking of the ground conditions, like if the moors were softer earth than the hills the horses could maintain higher speed in the hills, so I appreciate the confirmation.

BelGareth

2018-11-26, 12:13 PM

SOO much knowledges!!

awesome stuff, i tried to channel my inner Uhtred!

Just finished season 3 of last kingdom, SOOOOO good!

PeacefulOak

2018-11-26, 01:56 PM

So DDW will get the horses if he can (awful rolls notwithstanding), and catch up with the group if they want to start following.

Can I take 10 on survival to track them?

Ghostfoot

2018-11-27, 04:44 AM

Ok, thanks. I was thinking of the ground conditions, like if the moors were softer earth than the hills the horses could maintain higher speed in the hills, so I appreciate the confirmation.

The path through the Trollfist Hills will be winding and stony/ uneven, but possibly less perilous if it has recently been cleared out by the jarl's men. Travelling through the Moors should be quicker but will pass through more of the Barrow Lands, which are well known to be hazardous.

So DDW will get the horses if he can (awful rolls notwithstanding), and catch up with the group if they want to start following.

Can I take 10 on survival to track them?

Yep, rounding up your horses and tracking the kidnappers through the night will be fine (I've rolled separately). I'll post to that effect in the next couple of days when I get a bit of spare time.

SOO much knowledges!!

awesome stuff, i tried to channel my inner Uhtred!

Just finished season 3 of last kingdom, SOOOOO good!

I've not seen Lost Kingdom, but I can sense the awesomeness!

BelGareth

2018-11-27, 11:12 AM

I've not seen Lost Kingdom, but I can sense the awesomeness!

the Last Kingdom

It's amazing. focuses more on the Saxon part of the saxon and dane stories.

Think Vikings but better. (post Ragnar)

The author created a character (Uhtred), who is historically related to him, and is the lord of a minor fasthold called Bebbanburg. They had this weird tradition of calling each successor the same name, so it's impossibly hard to know which one did what, historically speaking. So he took a character he made, and inserted him into the major conflicts of the time, making him the crux of them all (and usually the reason why one side won or lost), but there is no historical reference to him being present, but because of how it's written, it works, and it's genius.

Also, being english, and having grown up there, makes even better.

Either way, i strongly recommend it.

DrK

2018-11-27, 12:36 PM

the Last Kingdom

It's amazing. focuses more on the Saxon part of the saxon and dane stories.

Think Vikings but better. (post Ragnar)

The author created a character (Uhtred), who is historically related to him, and is the lord of a minor fasthold called Bebbanburg. They had this weird tradition of calling each successor the same name, so it's impossibly hard to know which one did what, historically speaking. So he took a character he made, and inserted him into the major conflicts of the time, making him the crux of them all (and usually the reason why one side won or lost), but there is no historical reference to him being present, but because of how it's written, it works, and it's genius.

Also, being english, and having grown up there, makes even better.

Either way, i strongly recommend it.

The books are better. Also good is the Bernard Cornwell Arthurian trilogy for a dark ages feel of the King Arthur myth

BelGareth

2018-11-27, 01:17 PM

The books are better. Also good is the Bernard Cornwell Arthurian trilogy for a dark ages feel of the King Arthur myth

I bet, i need to read them. I thoroughly enjoyed the Ceaser books by Conn Iggulden. I'm trying to push through Dune right now, but Bernard's series and the expanse series are on my short list.

DrK

2018-11-27, 02:25 PM

I bet, i need to read them. I thoroughly enjoyed the Ceaser books by Conn Iggulden. I'm trying to push through Dune right now, but Bernard's series and the expanse series are on my short list.

Those ceasar books were really good. Loved the depiction of Brutus as this killing machine. His books about Atilla the Hun are also really good and I think he's started a medieval one.

PeacefulOak

2018-12-18, 03:51 PM

Hustle would kill the horses, almost guaranteed.... but we'd get there quickly. I think our runner would be even worse off if we hustled on the horses.

DDW doesn't have any method for healing at the moment, so that non-lethal damage would stick unless our wise woman has anything left?

Ghostfoot

2018-12-18, 04:03 PM

DDW doesn't have any method for healing at the moment, so that non-lethal damage would stick unless our wise woman has anything left?

Healing comes online a little later (level 3?) for Signy's cunning woman archetype. She's out of potions.

Skorri has CLW, but might find better uses for that.

PeacefulOak

2018-12-18, 04:19 PM

Hmmm... normal for our walker plus forced march seems the optimal plan, otherwise we’re killing our horses and heavily damaging one of our heavy hitters.

I think that’s probably what we should do?

EDIT: Spell less Ranger also gets some healing at level 3. Yay future options!

Totally forward-thinking here, what sorts of terrains tend to be around?

Dexam

2018-12-19, 12:41 AM

Skorri has CLW, but might find better uses for that.

He only gets two spells per day and as he's "totally not a caster" (*wink-wink*), they're pretty saved for emergency uses only i.e. someone falls into negative HP territory.

That reminds me - I owe this game an IC post; I'll try to get something up today-ish.

Ghostfoot

2018-12-19, 04:37 AM

Totally forward-thinking here, what sorts of terrains tend to be around?

Around here it's mostly forest, moors & hills. And sea of course (and therefore lots of coast, whatever terrain that technically counts as). Further afield there are plenty of mountains ringing the North Sea, and as one heads further north (which you will get the chance to) you'll encounter sub-arctic & arctic versions of the same.

DrK

2018-12-21, 06:06 PM

Had we decided to get aw riggle on and take the most direct route?

Ghostfoot

2018-12-23, 01:37 AM

Had we decided to get aw riggle on and take the most direct route?

https://images2.imgbox.com/a9/a2/LLOKfVAz_o.png

You've decided to take the northernmost path through the Moors, which is the path that Sibbe and her two accomplices have taken with the kidnapped daughters. Also should be the quickest route as the paths through the hills and through the forest will probably each be more difficult terrain.

The only question was whether Freyja would hustle to keep up with the horses, or alternatively the horses could slow to Freyja's pace and everyone would incur forced march checks.

If you haven't made a decision by the time I get around to posting IC I'll just make a call on it for you.

PeacefulOak

2018-12-23, 03:58 PM

https://images2.imgbox.com/a9/a2/LLOKfVAz_o.png

You've decided to take the northernmost path through the Moors, which is the path that Sibbe and her two accomplices have taken with the kidnapped daughters. Also should be the quickest route as the paths through the hills and through the forest will probably each be more difficult terrain.

The only question was whether Freyja would hustle to keep up with the horses, or alternatively the horses could slow to Freyja's pace and everyone would incur forced march checks.

If you haven't made a decision by the time I get around to posting IC I'll just make a call on it for you.

The slow mode is absolutely the best option. Each horse will take 1d6 damage, and Freyja might take 1d6 non-lethal damage. Every other option is harder on the party.

Ghostfoot

2018-12-23, 04:30 PM

The slow mode is absolutely the best option. Each horse will take 1d6 damage, and Freyja might take 1d6 non-lethal damage. Every other option is harder on the party.

Cool. I'll update on this basis. Steady as she goes.

BelGareth

2019-01-04, 11:35 AM

am i missing the map posted?

PeacefulOak

2019-01-04, 11:43 AM

It's up in a spoiler now.

Ghostfoot

2019-01-04, 12:42 PM

yeah sorry had to add that map in a few hours after the post as I was on dodgy wifi while on holiday

first fight of the adventure!!

BelGareth

2019-01-04, 02:31 PM

I see it now. Had to quote the post just to find the link.

I think imgbox has stopped working...testing

<image code is below this>
http://images2.imgbox.com/a8/6a/uWIH2gTs_o.png
<image code is above this>

Maybe it's just me.

Gah, I had to mess with my Security Badger addon for chrome, figured it out though.

Ghostfoot

2019-01-04, 03:05 PM

Phew. Thought I was going to have to find yet another hosting site :smallsigh:

Ghostfoot

2019-01-07, 11:19 PM

Hey Bel, did you forget to hit "submit" in the IC? :smallwink:

BelGareth

2019-01-23, 11:17 AM

Hey Bel, did you forget to hit "submit" in the IC? :smallwink:

sorry, sorry, sorry.

I'll look now.

PeacefulOak

2019-01-23, 12:23 PM

Woot! Ghostfoot, you're up for both Signy and the Skellingtons I think!

Ghostfoot

2019-01-23, 01:13 PM

All good Bel.

I will get onto our DMPC and evil baddies when I'm home from work later.

Ghostfoot

2019-01-25, 05:33 PM

Just acquainting myself with the PF mount/ mounted combat rules, which I think I have understood as "No Ride skill + untrained mount = suck".

Especially given this:
Mounts that do not possess combat training (see the Handle Animal skill) are frightened by combat.

PeacefulOak

2019-01-25, 06:29 PM

Just acquainting myself with the PF mount/ mounted combat rules, which I think I have understood as "No Ride skill + untrained mount = suck".

Especially given this:

That's about right.

BelGareth

2019-01-25, 06:39 PM

I was curious about that, which is why I dismounted Gunner as fast as possible.

Dexam

2019-01-31, 08:58 PM

Ghostfoot

2019-02-01, 04:39 AM

Is Raging Song optional? i.e. can allies like spell casters choose to not be affected?

Also, I'm assuming that the 3.5e rule of moving while drawing a weapon requires a BAB of +1 or better applies to PF.

Yep pretty sure it's optional as per SRD (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/skald/):

when the skald begins a raging song and at the start of each ally’s turn in which they can hear the raging song, the skald’s allies must decide whether to accept or refuse its effects.

And your assumption seems correct per SRD here (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/gamemastering/combat/#TOC-Draw-or-Sheathe-a-Weapon).

If you have a base attack bonus of +1 or higher, you may draw a weapon as a free action combined with a regular move.

Ghostfoot

2019-02-01, 03:22 PM

Unfortunately I think Freyja will miss out on the AoO due to flat-feeties.

I was curious about that, which is why I dismounted Gunner as fast as possible.

Vikings are not bred for mounted combat. It's unholy!

PeacefulOak

2019-02-01, 03:26 PM

Neither are Nuklanders, as evidenced by my not-great roll even with higher ground advantage (which is the real advantage to horseback).

PeacefulOak

2019-03-15, 12:44 PM

How close do I think we are to our destination? Also, this creature seems to be intending to obstruct our path, yes? In a "go through me, or I'll hunt you and tear out your throats" kind of way.

Ghostfoot

2019-03-15, 04:46 PM

How close do I think we are to our destination? Also, this creature seems to be intending to obstruct our path, yes? In a "go through me, or I'll hunt you and tear out your throats" kind of way.

On this map (below) you are currently on the northernmost trail, where the other trail through the hills is just about to emerge from the forest and converge with your trail before entering the Barrow Lands. About 8 miles from destination. Sorry can't edit the map right now to show it as I'm at work.

https://images2.imgbox.com/a9/a2/LLOKfVAz_o.png

And yup, it's definitely looking obstructive. To retrace your steps and try to circumvent the bog would take some time, and wading/ swimming to bypass it feels like a very bad idea.

Ghostfoot

2019-03-18, 02:15 AM

I'm hoping to update this game tomorrow if anyone else wants to act in the interim.

DrK

2019-03-20, 04:39 PM

Still happy to wait to receive the charge of the weird bog dog

Ghostfoot

2019-03-21, 05:51 AM

Cool sounds good. I had a work project blow out so missed my posting window earlier this week. Hope to get to it in the weekend.

DrK

2019-03-24, 04:08 PM

Freyja's Attack of opportunity [roll0] Dam [roll1] x2 if braced polearms applies?

Will save [roll2] vs DC 14

DrK

2019-03-24, 04:10 PM

Excellent :smallsmile:
- the Critical threat [roll0] extra damage [roll1], still x2 (or extra multiple) if braced.

EDIT: if 21 confirms then 40 damage :smallsmile:

Dexam

2019-03-24, 09:38 PM

Skorri's Will save [roll0] (-2 shaken, +1 morale) vs DC 14

EDIT: if 21 confirms then 40 damage :smallsmile:

I think the hound is undead, so sadly no crits - hopefully double damage, though!

If your "Axe to grind" trait applies (is Freyja the only one threatening the hound when the AoO happens?), that's another 1 or 2 points of damage.

Ghostfoot

2019-03-25, 05:38 AM

I think the hound is undead, so sadly no crits - hopefully double damage, though!

If your "Axe to grind" trait applies (is Freyja the only one threatening the hound when the AoO happens?), that's another 1 or 2 points of damage.

Sadly undead (no crit) and not actually charging (no double damage). But a nasty hit and +1 damage for the "Axe to grind" trait.

Plus some nice saves so far.

PeacefulOak

2019-03-27, 07:22 PM

[roll0] Will save of DOOM!

Hopeful Attack... [roll1] to hit for [roll2] damage.

Unless I'm panicked, that is... BOOYAH!

BelGareth

2019-04-19, 11:36 AM

By gods....

[roll0] vs DC 14

edit: bah gawd! He has children!

Ghostfoot

2019-05-13, 06:31 AM

I am loving the characters & attitudes that you guys have brought to the game here - a bunch of hard-core vikings (and hangers-on) for sure!

PeacefulOak

2019-05-13, 02:29 PM

I am loving the characters & attitudes that you guys have brought to the game here - a bunch of hard-core vikings (and hangers-on) for sure!

Thanks! I'm really enjoying the game as well.

So... who should step forward as our champion? I'm fine volunteering as tribute, but I'm not 100% sure I'm the best choice.

DrK

2019-05-13, 04:41 PM

Freyja the GIantess Paladin would volunteer

Also, just watched the Game of THrones.... Exciting episode! :smallsmile:

Ghostfoot

2019-05-13, 11:16 PM

Also, just watched the Game of THrones.... Exciting episode! :smallsmile:

I am still a couple of seasons behind - lucky me I still have heaps to look forward to!!!

Dexam

2019-05-14, 06:01 AM

I'm certainly enjoying this game, and looking forward to its continuation. :smallsmile:

As much as Skorri would love to do it for the glory and bragging rights, I think that either Gunnar (due to rank) or Freyja (due to being best warrior so far) should be our champion.

As for Game of Thrones... I've seen one episode (the first), so I've got a lot to catch up on :smalltongue:

PeacefulOak

2019-05-14, 10:33 AM

As for Game of Thrones... I've seen one episode (the first), so I've got a lot to catch up on :smalltongue:

You're one episode ahead of me!

Ghostfoot

2019-05-22, 06:11 AM

Freyja the GIantess Paladin would volunteer

Want to do anything interesting or shall I just roll initiative for Freyja vs skeletal champion?

No rush I've just been to an old friend/ colleagues funeral today so my minds not on it right now.

DrK

2019-05-22, 03:54 PM

Want to do anything interesting or shall I just roll initiative for Freyja vs skeletal champion?

No rush I've just been to an old friend/ colleagues funeral today so my minds not on it right now.

I'll roll out a suitable challeng provably at the weekend if thats ok
My condoloences on the funeral.

Dexam

2019-05-22, 11:06 PM

Want to do anything interesting or shall I just roll initiative for Freyja vs skeletal champion?

I've just posted IC, mainly as an excuse to give Freyja a subtle buff (Resistance) in case the skeleton has some kind of fear aura or other shenanigans. Would starting an Inspiring Rage be considered too much interference in a one-on-one fight?

No rush I've just been to an old friend/ colleagues funeral today so my minds not on it right now.

My condolences on the loss of your friend. I don't want to speak for everyone else, but I think we can agree for you to take as long as you need.

Ghostfoot

2019-05-26, 05:24 AM

I'll roll out a suitable challeng provably at the weekend if thats ok.

All good. I'll just pop this here for when you're ready:

Initiative
Skeletal Champion (1d20+5)[16]
Freyja (1d20+1)[20]
Neither of you flat-footed.

Would starting an Inspiring Rage be considered too much interference in a one-on-one fight?

I'd probably let that slip through as okay given it's nature (ie it fits thematically and isn't a flashy buff like enlarge or girallon arms or similar).

Ghostfoot

2019-06-02, 07:47 AM

EDIT: as the 18 and 16 missed I've assumed the 15 misses.

Yep sure does, it's well armoured with breastplate + shield.

Quite the duel!

Ghostfoot

2019-06-02, 03:08 PM

Hps 2/10!!

Aren't you at 4/12? I'd hate for those 2hp to be the difference...

DrK

2019-06-02, 03:44 PM

Aren't you at 4/12? I'd hate for those 2hp to be the difference...

Yes you are correct... things have improved fractionally

Ghostfoot

2019-06-02, 10:56 PM

Yes you are correct... things have improved fractionally

Twice as healthy, sadly not for long.

DrK

2019-06-03, 12:20 AM

Twice as healthy, sadly not for long.

Ouch, yup, I was schooled there by the skeleton.

PeacefulOak

2019-06-03, 11:10 AM

Urgent question: What is the leader/followers doing now that our champion has fallen?

Ghostfoot

2019-06-03, 05:59 PM

Urgent question: What is the leader/followers doing now that our champion has fallen?

The skellies? They stand aside to leave you in peace. Eventually to shamble back to their barrow (if you let them).

Ghostfoot

2019-06-15, 08:46 PM

I'm planning to update his thread tonight. I'll just move you forward through the barrows unless anyone wants to do anything different (if so, now's the time to post!).

Also, given current player numbers I'll bot Bel/ Gunnar for the time being. I haven't heard from Bel for a while now but hopefully he's back sooner or later, he usually is (his sig says "super busy"...).

Dexam

2019-06-16, 10:07 PM

So our options are the NW causeway, the SW causeway, or climb the NE side of the tor.

NW causeway seems the most obvious route - it's closer, and doesn't require climbing.
SW causeway is most far away - we'd need to go around the tor to get to it, which increases our chances of running into undead.
Either or both causeways are likely to be guarded.
Climbing is most direct, but potentially the most risky and may possibly take the longest or the shortest, depending on how well we handle our climb; it's also unlikely to be guarded.
Related question - does a shield's ACP apply if you're just carrying it (i.e. slung over shoulders/strapped to back), and not actually wielding it? I would assume not, but best to check.
Also, a boarding axe grants a +2 circumstance bonus on Climb checks to scale wooden or other penetrable surfaces, such as ice - does the tor count as a "penetrable surface" i.e. dirt/earth, or is it stone? Edit: never mind, I just re-read the description and saw "mound of packed earth", so I'm guessing the bonus applies?

Thoughts on how we approach? If the ACP doesn't count for a slung shield, and the boarding axe bonus does count, I'm thinking Skorri might vote for the climb option.

Ghostfoot

2019-06-17, 04:54 AM

does a shield's ACP apply if you're just carrying it (i.e. slung over shoulders/strapped to back), and not actually wielding it? I would assume not, but best to check.

correct, only if worn

Also, a boarding axe grants a +2 circumstance bonus on Climb checks to scale wooden or other penetrable surfaces, such as ice - does the tor count as a "penetrable surface" i.e. dirt/earth, or is it stone? Edit: never mind, I just re-read the description and saw "mound of packed earth", so I'm guessing the bonus applies?

correct (I think). Kinda like a climbing pickaxe

also, since I didn't say it as explicitly in the IC as I thought I had - the undead are more 'herding' you than 'hunting' you. They're leaving the way to the Tor open and unimpeded.

PeacefulOak

2019-06-17, 10:57 AM

I think a two-pronged attack would be good. If DDW and Skorri climb the bluffs, we can hunker down until the other 3 can lead the horses around to the causeway. Then I can "pull them" by firing arrows into their midst, and the rest of the party can engage from behind. (DDW would say all this IC as well, if you'd like I can transpose it there)

DrK

2019-06-17, 04:42 PM

Ghostfoot

2019-06-17, 05:30 PM

the other 3 can lead the horses around to the causeway)

all of your horses were ditched at the entrance to the Barrow Lands, so they won't be an encumbrance here

PeacefulOak

2019-06-17, 05:49 PM

all of your horses were ditched at the entrance to the Barrow Lands, so they won't be an encumbrance here

Whoops!

Editing the thing.

Ghostfoot

2019-06-21, 05:23 PM

So:

DDW & Skorri to climb the tor & wait to ambush.

Freyja, Gunnar & Signy to walk up the causeway from the far side (Signy trailing a little behind, with the dog).

Sound like a plan? If so, let's have some Climb (DC 8) and Stealth checks from DDW & Skorri please.

PeacefulOak

2019-06-21, 05:39 PM

Climb: [roll0]
Stealth: [roll1]

Edit: Really? Those rolls couldn't be reversed? ><

Ghostfoot

2019-06-24, 04:32 AM

Climb: [roll0]
Stealth: [roll1]

Edit: Really? Those rolls couldn't be reversed? ><

hooray for distance penalties!

PeacefulOak

2019-06-24, 12:02 PM

So, group A has been seen, but is 200' out. That's three rounds of just running, and a fourth round of move and engage. Meanwhile, man with Bow and Witch with Spells will be making life difficult.

Also... no fair! Big bad mean witch gets to use crazy spells! :P Just kidding... I'ma kill her.

Strategery.... Have to divide that focus. DDW is going to act this round.

Edit: Boy o Boy do I hope that: A) 15 hits the witch, and B) that dropping to the ground will make up for that 6. :P

Dexam

2019-06-24, 08:32 PM

How strictly are we following the round-by-round? i.e. would Skorri have already had time to put away his boarding axe and pull out his bow following the climb, therefore being able to attack or take other actions this round; or am I going to have to use the first round to swap weapons?

Also, what's the terrain like on the top of the Tor? i.e. could someone run/charge unimpeded, or is it prevented by difficult terrain?

Ghostfoot

2019-06-24, 09:26 PM

Dexam

2019-06-25, 12:48 AM

And a natural 1 on the attack roll. :smallfrown:
Pretty good stealth check, though.

https://i.makeagif.com/media/8-29-2018/O2X_3Z.gif

I hope this isn't an indicator of the battle to come.

PeacefulOak

2019-06-26, 10:41 AM

Is there any way for DDW to move at an angle to remove the cover penalty? If so, then he does that.

Edit: ... second shot, not so impressive.

Edit the Second: Holy crap, 9 damage didn't take down an arcane caster? That's ROUGH. I really hope she's on death's door.

Dexam

2019-06-27, 01:11 AM

Well, that was a much better roll than my first one :smalltongue:
Still not a hope of hitting, what with cover, protective spells, etc.

@PeacefulOak: don't forget that standing from prone is a move action, so I doubt you'll get to move to a better position and shoot as well.

Likewise concerned that 9 damage didn't drop her... we're in pretty bad shape with 2 of our party already heavily wounded, both of them heavy-hitters.

Still, assuming she's the Witch class (with d6 hit dice) and +1 Con bonus... at 2nd-3rd level, they'd average 11-16 HP i.e. entirely reasonable.

PeacefulOak

2019-07-02, 10:24 AM

Rolling to confirm Crit!

[roll0] for [roll1] additional damage

Dexam

2019-07-08, 03:31 AM

Rolling to confirm the crit:
[roll0]
[roll1]

Ghostfoot

2019-07-16, 05:28 AM

oh dear (for me) it looks like that might be the end of my wicked witch, Sibbe.

And I didn't even get to use burning gaze (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/magic/all-spells/b/burning-gaze/) spell. I was looking forward to that!

Ghostfoot

2019-07-17, 08:35 PM

DrK

2019-07-17, 11:44 PM

Hey team

Well done on getting (almost) the the end of Part 1: Spring Rites. Up soon is Part 2: Wyrd of the Winter King.

BelGareth/ Gunnar won't be rejoining us for the time being. Before I open a re-recruitment, if you know of anyone who may wish to join either ask them to send me a PM or send me their details.

Cheers
GF

Hey Ghostfoot, cheers.
I'm not aware of anyone at the moment I'm afraid. Redzimmer or Starbin are often up for something so you could always ask the crowd in my Age of Worms game?

Ghostfoot

2019-07-20, 09:57 PM

Just waiting for Oak to enjoy his moment of glory then I'll move us on.

Might try to get a re-recruitment up tonight since no one has taken the bait yet.

DrK

2019-07-21, 12:58 AM

PeacefulOak

2019-07-22, 01:24 PM

Just waiting for Oak to enjoy his moment of glory then I'll move us on.

Might try to get a re-recruitment up tonight since no one has taken the bait yet.

Hoping we reach level 2 after this chaos :smallsmile:

Sorry, vacation tends to mean an actual reduction in my computer time.

I too am hoping for a level up. New goodies abound!

Ghostfoot

2019-07-22, 02:19 PM

Sorry, vacation tends to mean an actual reduction in my computer time.

I too am hoping for a level up. New goodies abound!

All good. Level two is very close. A little bit of tidying up first.

Re-recruitment is up, here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?593339-Northlands-Saga-re-recruiting-PF-1-0-vikings-level-1). Feel free to weigh in.

PeacefulOak

2019-07-22, 04:38 PM

My use of the term "Wild one" is a call-back to my previous interaction with Runa, trying to ground her with familiarity.

Thinking of level 2... I think I'll be taking "Cold" as my first favored terrain. Seems... apt. ;)

Ghostfoot

2019-07-23, 06:15 AM

Thinking of level 2... I think I'll be taking "Cold" as my first favored terrain. Seems... apt. ;)

Yup, that will be very optimal. Cold, water, forest, hills....that's about all I see for hundreds of miles. Looking through the nice old-school Wandering Monsters tables in the Northlands Campaign Guide it breaks them into Summer and Winter with the caveat that the summer tables should only be used at the height of summer. Go figure.

Ghostfoot

2019-08-02, 04:37 PM

Re-recruitment is up, here (http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?593339-Northlands-Saga-re-recruiting-PF-1-0-vikings-level-1). Feel free to weigh in.

Re-recruitment is closed. PM me if you have any thoughts/ comments/ preferences. They all look pretty good to me, we're spoiled for choice.

I thought I could run Signy as more of a support/ non-combat NPC if you want, so we can probably take 1-3 of the submissions depending on appetite.

We'll aim to make a decision by end of weekend.

Mercurion 2

2019-08-05, 08:29 AM

Hi Folks,

Glad to be on board! I've skimmed through the IC thread so am reasonably familiar with the story so far and will wait on how you want to get the new characters incorporated into the group.

Look forward to playing with you all.

--Merc

atlastrembles

2019-08-05, 10:28 AM

Hey everyone! Really stoked to be playing with you all as The White That Walks. Will catch up on the IC in the meantime and familiarize myself with everything.

DrK

2019-08-05, 10:35 AM

Welcome to the Norse savagery guys

Starbin

2019-08-05, 10:57 AM

Here! And looks like this is probably available. Heltinne is ready to prove herself worthy of of her ancestors...

“Lo there do I see my father; Lo there do I see my mother and my sisters and my brothers; Lo there do I see the line of my people, back to the beginning. Lo, they do call to me, they bid me take my place among them, in the halls of Valhalla, where the brave may live forever.”

Norse Battle and Burial prayer, 13th Warrior

Ghostfoot

2019-08-06, 05:57 AM

Hi new recruits, welcome to the game :-)

Turns out I'm pretty busy IRL for the next ~48 hours so plenty of time to get familiar with things.

You are all welcome to join the game as part of Jarl Henrikson's recently arrived evac-team if you wish. If that doesn't suit for some reason then you can join shortly thereafter. We'll be wrapping up this section and on to the next.

Also, I'll be giving you a bit more wealth shortly too, so if starting equipment has been a problem there's assistance coming soon.

May the Norns favour you as you face your wyrd!

Starbin

2019-08-06, 04:40 PM

I’d be fine with Heltinne being part of the war party, but it depends on if you think she’d be called upon for this ... based on a tenuous relationship at best.

Ghostfoot

2019-08-06, 05:37 PM

I’d be fine with Heltinne being part of the war party, but it depends on if you think she’d be called upon for this ... based on a tenuous relationship at best.

Maybe since they were headed into the Barrow Lands the Jarl thought it best to grab a spirit-touched to accompany the group hoping for some protection against the accursed dead. So not so much a warrior as a "lucky charm".

Dexam

2019-08-06, 08:58 PM

Hail and welcome new recruits!

I really need to make an IC post in response the Jarl's arrival and reward; but real life has been super busy lately. Hopefully I'll have something up in the next 48 hours.

Starbin

2019-08-06, 09:47 PM

Maybe since they were headed into the Barrow Lands the Jarl thought it best to grab a spirit-touched to accompany the group hoping for some protection against the accursed dead. So not so much a warrior as a "lucky charm".

Makes sense to me ... I’ll try to post a ‘Newbie’s Perspective’ post tonight or tomorrow.

atlastrembles

2019-08-08, 09:23 AM

Mercurion 2

2019-08-08, 10:30 AM

Ok, just made an introductory post to palce Knorron, the troll-touched rogue, into the scene as part of the rescue party.

PeacefulOak

2019-08-08, 10:45 AM

Having caught up on the IC, I don't think it makes sense that White That Walks would be part of the Jarl's evac team. A Nuk with a polar bear companion would definitely be out of place and noticed. I think it makes more sense that my PC would be waiting somewhere for Dark Dreams Wanderer like back at the feasthall in Silvermeade or along the route. Maybe even meets the party at the Tor, but separate from the Jarl's party?

DM, party, what do you think?

It feels like we're at the denouement of the story, so that's one thing to consider. In terms of whether or not the Jarl would have brought you... if you're a skilled tracker, then he most certainly would have with your skills with the wild and your familiarity with the Wanderer. For me, I'd be A-OK with you joining the force.

atlastrembles

2019-08-08, 02:50 PM

It feels like we're at the denouement of the story, so that's one thing to consider. In terms of whether or not the Jarl would have brought you... if you're a skilled tracker, then he most certainly would have with your skills with the wild and your familiarity with the Wanderer. For me, I'd be A-OK with you joining the force.

This is actually a great point. I'll work up an intro post. :)

Starbin

2019-08-09, 02:07 PM

I May need to go back and adjust my post ... while a 17 Charisma certainly commands attention, I’m not sure it matches the “Holy Spit!” factor of a polar bear-riding tundra elf :smallsmile: :smallsmile:

Ghostfoot

2019-08-09, 05:05 PM

Sorry to interrupt your intros. Feel free to continue with any intro banter prior to this event unfolding.

PeacefulOak

2019-08-09, 05:09 PM

Oh, whoops!

Sorry, I already posted.

Somewhat related, I have a hard time actually playing low charisma characters. >< I think sometimes the answer is simply to have it such that while my words may be polite, my inflection or delivery (or wild-haired Nuk appearance) just makes it that much less impactful.

Starbin

2019-08-09, 07:03 PM

For me, I try to think about my other attributes. My high Int, low Cha characters tend to be acerbic, biting or impatient with those around them. Or they are extremely well spoken, but oblivious to those around them. For lower Int low Cha ones, (especially from more Warrior or primitive cultures) I go with matter-of-fact, no holds bared. “You are an excellent warrior, but why do you smell like yak piss?” “You do magic? I thought you were just frail and weak. Good to know.”

YMMV of course ...

Ghostfoot

2019-08-09, 09:54 PM

A quick note on languages for the newcomers, as I skim the sheets:

Heltinne & WTW - you have Common noted as a language. FWIW this is refluffed as "Nørsk" in the Northlands. Note this excludes reading/ writing Nørsk which is a second language slot of it's own (Runic). Common does exist as a separate language in it's own right but is the trade tongue of the southlands and not commonly used in this campaign setting.
Heltinne - I think you still get Celestial as a bonus language since you're aasimar?
Knorron - since you have Int 12 I think you have an extra language slot to spend. Other than the usual monster languages, relevant campaign options include Runic (written Nørsk), Andøvan (long-dead human inhabitants of the land), or Seagestrelander (barbarian tribes of the near south-west). If you choose a monster language ask & I'll tell you if it will be relevant or not.

Starbin

2019-08-10, 04:40 AM

Ghostfoot

2019-08-10, 05:06 AM

I’ve updated to the Nørsk (reading only). And because Heltinne is a Scion of Humanity, she lost the celestial language. As Røb Zømbie might say, she’s more human than human ..

Cool, that's easy then....& White Zømbie - that reminds me of many fond/hazy summer memories of drinking beer as a high school student :smallbiggrin:

Mercurion 2

2019-08-10, 05:51 PM

Ghostfoot

2019-08-12, 04:15 AM

OK, I'll go with
Seagestrelander then, under the assumption Knorron would have dealt with them more often than long-dead inhabitants. :)

Yeah that works well. Thralls (slaves) are most often Seagestrelanders, and there's also a bit of trade with the tribes of Seagestreland, so interaction is very common.

atlastrembles

2019-08-12, 01:46 PM

I've updated my sheet as well, loving this campaign already. Kudos to Ghostfoot for running something super immersive and with such a distinct style.

Mercurion 2

2019-08-16, 11:35 AM

Hi all,

My apologies for my lack of posting. For whatever reason, I have been struggling mightily to get engaged and come up with a suitable post, and I really can’t explain why.

I like my character concept. I like the others characters. I like the setting. The posts are very well written and interesting. All of the players seem like the sort of folks I enjoy gaming with. And yet I’m coming up dry here. It’s really perplexing.

I think it might be best for me to bow out now, rather than try to muddle through it, so that you can offer the slot to someone else if you choose. I REALLY hate bailing on a game—I think I’ve only ever dropped one game before, and to be fair it was a terrible game—but I’d rather do it now than after my character gets well established and you all have to figure a way to drop and replace.

Truly sorry about this. As I said, the game looks great, which is what makes this hard to explain. Hope you all enjoy it, and I hope to cross paths with you again in the future.

Cheers,
Merc

Starbin

2019-08-17, 12:55 AM

Well, it sucks when you can’t get your mojo rolling on a game ... I think we’re probably all patient enough to work through that with ya, but totally understand the choices of time and commitment. Whatever your decision, happy gaming!

Ghostfoot

2019-08-17, 03:43 AM

As Starbin says, we're happy to give you a bit of time if you would like it. I find a bit of action (ie combat) always helps when the interactions are stalling and we haven't really done anything much yet.

But equally, if you want to bail out no hard feelings. If you change your mind and want to stick with it then let me know in the next ~24 hours.

Mercurion 2

2019-08-18, 10:48 AM

Very much appreciated, Ghostfoot, but I think now is the time for me to bow. Hope you all enjoy the game, it looks like a good one.

Cheers,
Merc

Ghostfoot

2019-08-27, 07:11 AM

Hoping to update this game IC tomorrow, all going well :smallsmile:

farothel

2019-08-27, 11:27 AM

Hey,

Ghostfoot has asked me to fill the empty spot. As I first will need to read myself into the story (see where you are) and then figure out where I'm supposed to be (with you, on the way as 'the cavalry' if needed, or simply at home blissfully unaware), I'll probably not post in the IC for now.

Also I'll be going on holiday on Saturday and while I have WiFi (at least, two of the three locations have it for sure, the third maybe), I'll be slow the coming two weeks.

PeacefulOak

2019-08-28, 11:35 AM

DrK

2019-08-29, 12:56 AM

I think the +1 Andovan Dagger is something that I'll pass along to someone else who was present for the fight. Either Skorri or Signy seem like good candidates? Thoughts?

Also, this amber with moth in it is odd.

I'm thinking Skorri or Signy as well, not something the giantess would use.

Welcome Farothel!

Ghostfoot

2019-08-29, 05:38 AM

I'm thinking Skorri or Signy as well, not something the giantess would use.

Welcome Farothel!

Yes, welcome farothel! Look forward to you joining when you're ready.

Give the dagger to Skorri I reckon. With this many PC's I'll dial Signy down as more of a utility/ non-combat build so don't expect her to get too close to the action

farothel

2019-08-29, 10:38 AM

Yes, welcome farothel! Look forward to you joining when you're ready.

Give the dagger to Skorri I reckon. With this many PC's I'll dial Signy down as more of a utility/ non-combat build so don't expect her to get too close to the action

I can join at any time, but where do you want my character? Is he with the party, or at the jarl's mansion, or somewhere else?

Starbin

2019-08-29, 01:54 PM

Ghostfoot

2019-08-29, 01:56 PM

This post might help ...

Yep, either is fine. I’m about to bring the party back home.

PeacefulOak

2019-08-29, 02:01 PM

Yep, either is fine. I’m about to bring the party back home.

And level up...? ;)

farothel

2019-08-29, 02:05 PM

Okay, I'll read the full IC tomorrow and do a first post (if for nothing else than to find the topic back more easily thanks to the 'I posted there' check mark). :smallsmile:

EDIT: as youngest and probably least experienced member of the warband, I assume that it would be Bjorn's task to lead the found horses. So if anybody wants to say something to him while he gives back the reins of the horses, they can do so.

EDIT2: link (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=1965654) to my character sheet, in case it's needed until ghostfoot puts it into the first post (if still needed if this episode is finished).

PeacefulOak

2019-08-30, 05:56 PM

So we need to sum up the adventure?

Let's get our kennings up and running, friends!

Ghostfoot

2019-08-30, 06:30 PM

So we need to sum up the adventure?

Let's get our kennings up and running, friends!

Yes! Up to you how in depth you want to go though. You can hand wave it with a one liner if you’d prefer. I figured since you have a skald in the ranks I’d give you the option :-)

Dexam

2019-08-30, 09:36 PM

farothel

2019-08-30, 09:41 PM

Hail and welcome newcomers!

My apologies to all - I've been taken over by real life lately, so I need to do a lot of catch up. I'll go over the IC & OOC posts later today, and try to post something as soon as I can.

no problem for me. I'll be spending most of my day stuck in a metal tube without internet access anyway (as well as a couple of hours on airport WiFi if I bother with it), so take your time. :smallwink:

Ghostfoot

2019-08-31, 05:15 AM

Just a couple of minor tweaks for Bjorn:

Could you add a portrait to the sheet when you get a moment please
Common is not a free language in this game, so with +1 Int you'll get Nordic & either Runic or Common (not both).

farothel

2019-08-31, 04:15 PM

I'll do those tweaks to Bjorn's character sheet when I come back from holiday, as I don't have all my stuff with me (I already have a picture, I just can't get it to show on the site). I doubt it's that urgent. :smallcool:

Ghostfoot

2019-08-31, 04:27 PM

PeacefulOak

2019-09-11, 12:15 PM

Ghostfoot

2019-09-12, 06:07 AM

Would a Masterwork Composite Longbow (+3) be available?

If not, then DDW will offer his reward to another of the group (our giantess perhaps) stating that the Greatsword is more than reward enough for the day's venture.

Seems fair that you can have the MW base weapon for free (ie a MW composite longbow) and if you want to add any special attributes (ie +3 Str or something else eg silver/ mithral etc) then you can pay the excess.

So in this case, yes the weapon is available for an extra 'cost' of 300hs (ie 300gp)

Edit: but do check with me on any other special attributes desired as some may not be readily available

farothel

2019-09-12, 06:36 AM

I've updated my character sheet. Removed the common language (as my mother was a scribe, keeping the literacy was more logical from the background).
I've simply made my battle axe Masterwork, and with the money I've changed one of my daggers into a silver dagger.
I've added a link to a picture I have, but I don't seem to be able to get it to show on the sheet.

I have two questions:
-in the recruitment thread there is in 'the big 16' a link to the 'bacrground skills' rule, but in the OOC there is not. Is this optional rule in effect or not?
-how easy is it to get potions and things like that?

Ghostfoot

2019-09-12, 06:41 AM

I have two questions:
-in the recruitment thread there is in 'the big 16' a link to the 'bacrground skills' rule, but in the OOC there is not. Is this optional rule in effect or not?
-how easy is it to get potions and things like that?

Background skills are in effect

Non-fantastical potions are available (eg CLW, Shield of Faith) from the old cunning woman Odi or similar. If you want anything that feels overtly magical then please ask first.

farothel

2019-09-12, 09:41 AM

Background skills are in effect

Non-fantastical potions are available (eg CLW, Shield of Faith) from the old cunning woman Odi or similar. If you want anything that feels overtly magical then please ask first.

Added background skills and 1 potion of CLW.

Dexam

2019-09-13, 09:42 PM

Ghostfoot

2019-09-13, 09:47 PM

Hi all, apologies for my lack of posting lately. Life has been super busy - my colleague at work left for another company recently and there are no current plans to replace him, so I'm doing the job of two people. On top of that, my wife got sick, so I've had double parent duty at home, and very little spare time.
Sorry for not letting you know sooner - my wife is feeling a bit better, so hopefully I will be able to return to posting again soon.
Dexam.

That does sound like a lot to have on your plate all at once. I hope your wife recovers swiftly and things settle down at work for you. Everything always goes to pot in my household when my wife gets sick.

Thanks for letting us know. That's no problem - we'll just cruise along and you can jump back in when you're ready. Take your time!

Ghostfoot

2019-09-13, 10:04 PM

Also, if anyone wants to take a Masterwork Tool (or similar eg backpack, instrument etc) or MW armour/ shield (no full plate or tower shields) instead of a MW Weapon you may.

farothel

2019-09-14, 05:09 AM

Also, if anyone wants to take a Masterwork Tool (or similar eg backpack, instrument etc) or MW armour/ shield (no full plate or tower shields) instead of a MW Weapon you may.

I'll stay with my axe. It sort of makes sense in the setting that I would inherit my father's best weapon when I take service with the Jarl.

atlastrembles

2019-09-17, 11:31 AM

I'll avail myself of a MW Hide Shirt instead of a weapon. Updated my sheet to reflect such. Will post in a moment.

farothel

2019-09-22, 03:40 AM

who's turn is it? I think this tale has almost finished, unless something else is about to happen. :smalleek: