Chronicles of the Blade OOC

[Kuro Dmon]

And here we are! Happy New Year, everyone!

Original Recruitment Thread. (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?662497-Another-shot-at-having-a-PF-cake-and-eating-it-too-Closed)

IC Thread (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?663489-Chronicles-of-the-Blade-IC)

Dice Thread (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?663490-Chronicles-of-the-Dice)



Player
Rolls
Sheet Link
Character
Race
Gender
Alignment
Concept
PoW or SoM
Classes
Fighting Style
Combat Niches
Adventuring Niches


Alteiner
32pb
Mythweavers (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/?id=2859338)
Sieghart Aetheredge
Angelkin Aasimar
Male
Neutral Good
Newly-Minted Warrior Nobility
Both
Bushi Warlord/Landsknecht // Battle-Born Prodigy
One-Handed Sword/Iaijutsu
Melee, Mobility
Party Face, Scout


ScrambledBrains
40
OG Myth (https://og.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2859503)
Darvan
Human
Male
Lawful Good
Field Monk
PoW
Stalker//Unchained Monk
Thrown Weapons
Melee, Mobility, Range,
Scout, Stealth, Trapfinding,


Kaouse
32pb
Mythweavers (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/?id=2859480)
Dorian
Human
Male
Lawful Neutral
Quote the Raven
Both
Harbinger//Scholar
Poison and Curses
Debuffer, Mobility
Heal?, Sage, Scout, Stealth, Trapfinding


Athaleon
44
Mythweavers (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/?id=2860192)
Alaric
Human
Male
Lawful Good
Cavalry Officer
Both
Warder // Commander
Mounted Melee
Buffer, Meat Shield, Mobility
Party Face, Sage


Da'Shain
36
MythWeavers (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheets/?id=2859604)
Freki
Onispawn Tiefling
Female
Chaotic Good
Drunken Buccaneer
Both
Stalker//Striker
Drunken Boxing
BC, Melee
Party Face, Scout


namo
39pb
OG Myth (https://og.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2859918)
Dre'k
Tiefling
Male
Neutral Good
Military ranged tank
Both
Warder | Fighter/Conscript
Archery
Ranged Tank
more Ranged Tanking


Arael666
53
Google (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1x5PTREcXTTMGK9hxC_Y3oA67LvD9pXLGaoUtr0TBB-4/edit?usp=sharing)
Baldret
Elan
Male
CG
Pure hearted, stuborn Mercenary
PoW
Mystic/Aegis // PsyWar/Awakened Blade
Natural Weapons
Meat Shield, Melee Damage
Party Face (intimidate), Scout



Might make a few adjustments for notes, but party selected. You don't need to re-copy it when noting any adjustments (particularly after I shift the chart around once more for my own convenience). You do, however, need to select a Color for me. The Escort, who you'll be meeting soon, would favor Dark Orange or Blue, but as long as one of those is left for me for them, that's fine. :smallwink:



As you pick your color, I would like a brief vote on something. I've got a couple of NPC templates to use for a few fights I wanted to have, largely for you guys to show off how skilled you are to each other.
I have, however, had it suggested that, as fun as the Tournament Arc introduction is, I should be more concise and just skip to the first encounter, particularly to actually introduce your protectee ally.

7 Warriors, 7 Votes. Would you prefer we skip straight to some roleplay that leads to the plot, or would you like some rollplay first to actually flex your character's skills a bit?

[namo]

I'm OK either way, but I'll vote for roleplay first.

In parallel, perhaps people can start explaining their abilities that interact with the party.
Notably I see a Battle-Born Prodigy, and a Commander.

@Athaleon: we'll also need to figure out how to cooperate regarding marking, since we're both warders. But likely Dre'k will just mark enemies you haven't marked, since he has more flexibility, being ranged.

[ScrambledBrains]

Happy New Year, everyone!

On the flip side, I'll vote for the rollplay first; I'm a sucker for a good tournament arc, what can I say? Plus, I would like to see how well I've built Darvan

And I think he'll speak in Navy

[Arael666]

As you pick your color, I would like a brief vote on something. I've got a couple of NPC templates to use for a few fights I wanted to have, largely for you guys to show off how skilled you are to each other.
I have, however, had it suggested that, as fun as the Tournament Arc introduction is, I should be more concise and just skip to the first encounter, particularly to actually introduce your protectee ally.

7 Warriors, 7 Votes. Would you prefer we skip straight to some roleplay that leads to the plot, or would you like some rollplay first to actually flex your character's skills a bit?

Baldret will use Green as his collor, and I believe the Escort should use Blue as it's more distinctive.

I'm voting to skip to our fist encounter, since it'll be precedded by roleplay, we'll have the oportunity to develop the characters interaction and also meet the Escort, which I'll admiti I'm very curious about.


In parallel, perhaps people can start explaining their abilities that interact with the party.

Baldret is melee meat shield, he has high AC and (I believe) high Melee damage. So he'll mostly try to draw attention to himself in any given battle in order to protect the Escort and the other teammates. Outside combat, he can use his intimidation and good mobility, but that's about it.

Finally, I need to finish spending the character wealth, I'll get to it right now

[ScrambledBrains]

Darvan has some relatively good DPS combined with a bit of battlefield control in his Tempest Gale Maneuvers. I.E. He likes to use his Chakram to disarm and trip opponents. As mentioned, he CAN go into melee combat but that's a last resort for him, only to be used if either his life is in immediate danger by a close opponent or if an ally and/or the escort has their life in immediate danger by an opponent that he can't hurt with his Chakram.

Also, I did just decide to change one of my Readied Maneuvers to something else on my list just now.

Edit: Out of combat, Darvan has solid Stealth and very consistent Perception since he can take ten on it, as well as decent maneuverability and knowledge. He also has high Heal, Sense Motive and Slight of Hand...and while he HAS high Disable Device, he doesn't have trapfinding so, that's more for Aid Another use than anything.

[Alteiner]

I'll have Sieghart use Fire Brick as his text color.

I'll also vote we skip to meeting our charge.

In combat, Sieghart is mostly melee DPS, but can operate comfortably at short range for an opening volley. He moves around a fair bit (abandoning Martial Focus as a free action and regaining as a move with a check that's pretty hard for him to fail) to quickly build up Links in his Sequence. Inspired Sequence ensures that he hits harder and more often the more momentum he builds, and he can share his bonus from Inspired Sequence with nearby allies. He can defend adjacent allies from ranged attacks by expending one of his opportunity attacks (most of AoO uses are defensive in nature), and can even work somewhat well disarmed.

Out of combat, high charisma and good bonuses to non-bluff interaction skills are his main way of interacting with people. He can move, climb and swim fairly-well, and is very observant.

[Kaouse]

Dorian Grey can speak with Gray.


Quote the Raven, will speak in Quotes.

[namo]

In combat, Sieghart is mostly melee DPS, but can operate comfortably at short range for an opening volley. He moves around a fair bit (abandoning Martial Focus as a free action and regaining as a move with a check that's pretty hard for him to fail) to quickly build up Links in his Sequence. Inspired Sequence ensures that he hits harder and more often the more momentum he builds, and he can share his bonus from Inspired Sequence with nearby allies. He can defend adjacent allies from ranged attacks by expending one of his opportunity attacks (most of AoO uses are defensive in nature), and can even work somewhat well disarmed.

OK. I don't have practical experience with Prodigies, so I didn't know how important it might be that other people in the party can fulfill links in your sequence.


As for Dre'k (Maroon), he grants +2 to AC and Will to allies within 20ft (the other Warder will have the same, but they don't stack).
He has high AC, good durability (temporary HP each round + a delayed damage pool that turns some damage into nonlethal damage, so the escort's healing will be twice as impactful), and will mark enemies to inflict -6 to attack vs his allies (but not him). And he can intercept attacks as well for nearby allies.

[Da'Shain]

Happy new year everyone! Thanks for selecting Freki, Kuro Dmon. She will speak in Dark Green.

In terms of her role, well, there's some overlap, as she just so happens to ALSO be a high AC beatstick. She is basically all melee all the time and uses improvised weapons to ruin people's day. Through Fool's Errand Style and the use of Brute sphere combat maneuvers that still do damage, she's a martial controller that can maneuver enemies around the battlefield and prevent them escaping, and can do nonlethal all day with no penalties if we want. She has a little team utility with Fear the Reaper letting her Intimidate an attack against an ally away or Intruder's End letting her expand her threatened area like a Warder as an immediate action, but otherwise she's all about the enemies.

Out of combat, she's pretty scary and perceptive, decently tricksy, and if you need someone to climb, swim, sail a ship or win at cards, all while drinking anyone under the table, she's your lady; but stealthy she is not.

I will also vote for roleplay, let's get into the story!

[Athaleon]

Glad to be getting started! Saddle Brown seems a suitable, distinctive, and easy-to-read color for Alaric.

I would also vote for skipping an initial combat. Partly for selfish reasons (Alaric isn't the strongest in a 1v1 duel, especially if he can't have his horse) but mostly just to get down to the game itself.


@Athaleon: we'll also need to figure out how to cooperate regarding marking, since we're both warders. But likely Dre'k will just mark enemies you haven't marked, since he has more flexibility, being ranged.

Sounds good to me. Armiger's Mark can only be applied to enemies we damage, after all, and we will typically be hitting different targets anyway.

As for abilities that interact with the party, Alaric has... a lot.

- Raging Song, as a Skald of his level. He has an item that allows him to grant everyone under his Inspired Rage a Rage Power as well—in his case, Quick Reflexes for +1 AOO per round.

- He has the Warleader Sphere and Aggressive Flanking talent (which the Battle Fanfare feat allows him to maintain with the same action as his Raging Song): "allied creatures are considered to be flanking as long as they both threaten the same creature, regardless of their comparative positioning."

- Battle Fanfare also allows him to use a Shout once per round as a Move or Swift Action while he maintains Raging Song. Alaric currently has Fierce Shout (allies get +5 damage on their first attack each round) and Protective Warning (+3 to saves against a specific enemy ability he warns them about).

- The Commander Class' Enhanced Tactics give him abilities he can apply to allies benefiting from a Tactic or a Shout. He can only use one Enhanced Tactic at a time, and currently has Expert Coordinator (sharing Outflank (https://aonprd.com/FeatDisplay.aspx?ItemName=Outflank) and Paired Opportunists (https://aonprd.com/FeatDisplay.aspx?ItemName=Paired%20Opportunists) with allies), Command Movement (give one ally a free Move Action), Rapid Repositioning (use Move Action to grant all allies 10' of free movement) and Troop Upkeep (allies all get 4 Temp HP per turn).

- The Hussar (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/alternative-rule-systems/path-of-war/classes/martial-class-templates/hussar-template/) Warder's Guerilla Formation grants a further +2 Attack and Damage for flanking, and grants allies an extra 5' step per round (even outside their turn!) so long as it would put them in flanking position—which thanks to Aggressive Flanking, means any enemy that has an ally already threatening it.

- He has the Squadron Feats Close Formation (allies grant an additional +2 with Aid Another actions), Phalanx Formation (allies gain +2 Attack Rolls and AC while adjacent to another ally; +1 more for each additional), and Pincer Formation (flanking bonuses to attack rolls also apply to damage rolls). As far as I can tell, these are passive abilities that always function for any ally that has line of sight to Alaric and who meets the specific feats' conditions.

- Maneuvers like Warning Roar, Encouraging Roar, etc. will all provide bonuses to nearby allies.

- Maneuvers like Golden Swipe and Hunting Party will grant allies AOOs against struck targets.

- To protect adjacent allies, Alaric has the Shield Sphere's (http://spheresofpower.wikidot.com/shield) Active Defense and Cover Ally (and Smashing Counter to attack in retaliation), and plenty of AOOs to power them. Alaric's horse also has Bodyguard (https://aonprd.com/FeatDisplay.aspx?ItemName=Bodyguard) to protect adjacent allies.

- The Warder's Aegis class feature gives allies within 20' a +2 bonus to AC and Will Saves (though the latter will not stack with Raging Song). Nor will it stack with Dre'k's Aegis, but we can provide each other the benefits at least, or cover a larger area with two auras.

[Alteiner]

OK. I don't have practical experience with Prodigies, so I didn't know how important it might be that other people in the party can fulfill links in your sequence.
I made him pretty self-reliant, for the most part. Other people adding Links is nice when they can spare the effort, but there's no need to go out of the way to make it happen. Finishers can definitely benefit other party members, including for defensive purposes and setting up combo attacks.

[Kaouse]

Talking about team wide abilities, things like Agressive Flanking and abilities that increase the bonus given by Aid Another should be very useful for Quote, who I've given the Guardian Sphere's Patrol alongside the Assist/Bodyguard Zone.

This means, he can set up a Patrol and aid another the attacks, AC and even saves of allies within his patrol.

As for Dorian Grey himself, his main team steroid is Obsidian Reflection Stance, however... it's a bit of a double edge sword. It either increases or decreases the attack and damage of all units in it's 20 ft range - both allies and enemies alike.

This is great if we're dealing with enemies at range or have an overwhelming numbers advantage at melee. Alternatively, Dorian can use it while behind enemy lines to debuff their attack and damage. He's a bit less affected, since he cares more about inflicting poison than dealing damage.

As a result, he'll mostly be in Poisoner's Stance, and only switch into Obsidian Reflection Stance at the most optimal times.

Still, he has numerous other debuffs to bring to bare upon the enemy, like Steel Serpent Style, the Gloom generated from his strikes, or his stinkbombs that inflict a sickness with enhanced penalties.

Also, he can change which attribute his poison damages. By default, it'll target CON, since that will help lower hp and reduce the chance of an opponent making a save.

Though his save DC is probably high enough to the point where he can afford to target other attributes, like DEX instead. That should make it easier for opponents to be hit.

Do you guys have a preference in terms of what attribute he targets?

[Kuro Dmon]

Vote established! 5 to 1 at my last count, so while I might reference back to it a bit (certainly would have been a way to introduce some additional rivals/antagonists), I’ll get the IC up in a few hours with the prologue skipped! You’ll still need to be combat ready, but it certainly won’t be in a tutorialized setting, that’s for sure.

A new question comes to mind, though. I’ll ask for skill checks in more active moments, but how do folk feel about things like passively detecting a lie, or even unusual sensations or whatever, to have me just take 10? Some folk get pretty opinionated about it, so that’s one other thought I figure I should go ahead and get out early… frankly maybe even in the recruitment thread as well, just in case.

I also wonder if we do want our own dedicated Dice Rolling thread, I guess potentially in case any mistakes are made when trying to roll… probably for the best. I’ll set that one up soon as well.


Baldret will use Green as his collor, and I believe the Escort should use Blue as it's more distinctive.

With no other input in that matter, they will indeed be using Blue, then. And I’ll shortly be done playing the pronoun game with them, too. :smallwink:


Partly for selfish reasons (Alaric isn't the strongest in a 1v1 duel, especially if he can't have his horse)
I will say I was going to factor for that, with folk having been recognized for different talents, but it is what it is anyway. This is probably ultimately easier, even in battles you’d have basically just been showing off for…

But yeah, IC (and Dice Rolling) threads will be up a little later today!

I figure anyone with any lasts minute mundane shopping, or wanting to put their fluff on their sheets for the few of you who haven't, you could. Though neither are an issue.

[Kaouse]

I'm always happy to take 10 whenever possible. Feel free to use it as a passive check.

[Arael666]

A new question comes to mind, though. I’ll ask for skill checks in more active moments, but how do folk feel about things like passively detecting a lie, or even unusual sensations or whatever, to have me just take 10? Some folk get pretty opinionated about it, so that’s one other thought I figure I should go ahead and get out early… frankly maybe even in the recruitment thread as well, just in case.

Fluffwise, IMO, it really depends on the character. If he is the cunning/smart/devious type, I can see him taking 10 most of the time, or even having an abiity to take 12. If he is the gullible/airhead, it would be strange for him to have sudden flashes of sharpness.

Crunchwise, I don't really think it matters much, it certainly would speed things up.

On another note, after seeing the others their abilities, I believe I should also give a more thorough explanation.

Baldret focuses on natural attacks (4 tentacles from Aegis, 2 claws from claws of the beast and a bite attack from ring of rat fangs). His manevers are from Sleeping Goddes and Riven hourglass, mostly defensive and action economy (though he can help allies with the SG maneuvers that allow that augment. On latter levels He'll start getting veils and essence, but they'll most likely keep increasing his physical prowess.

[ScrambledBrains]

Darvan can take ten on Perception and Knowledge(Nature) checks at all times anyway due to his traits, so it doesn't overtly change much for him.

Also, depending on when Kuro Dmon puts up the IC thread, I might be at my job, so in that case, I'll either post tonight or early tomorrow.

[Da'Shain]

I'm fine with you taking 10 for passive checks, but Arael has a good point; Freki is pretty sharp when she's paying attention but she's also definitely not always paying attention. So honestly I'd be fine if you just rolled yourself for a passive check for her, but if it makes things easier taking 10 works too.

[Kuro Dmon]

.... I need an opinion on something Stupid.

I keep going back and forth on something. Part of me imagined having a Sugar Glider, because they are so adorable. (https://www.youtube.com/shorts/x-OK8DSxpgE)

Mechanically, I figured they'd be closest to Flying Squirrels. Which are fun as familiars go, even if the skill bonus isn't something I'd be using in this game, at least for this character. A few foes might fly, but they don't.

A friend pointed out that I could do better with an Archaeopteryx, which are almost as cute, and give an ability that would actually matter for this character (particularly given that their saves are garbage).

And so TLDR; I wonder how much side-eying people would give if I could have the familiar as a Sugar Glider, stated them as a Flying Squirrel, but gave it the familiar bonus of +2 Reflex (which isn't even exclusive to the Archaeopteryx, but also is granted by Foxes, Weasels... and Vampire Squirrels or Sea Crabs... huh...).

...

...

...

This is obviously incredibly serious business. Super Important. :smalltongue:



This thread might interest a few of you, by the way. (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?663489-Chronicles-of-the-Blade-IC)

And this might interest less of you (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?663490-Chronicles-of-the-Dice), since I'm fine with still rolling OOC. Just as long as we keep the IC nice and neat. Please keep mechanics spoilered, if not just linked to.

.... reading back on my writing, I'd like to make a reminder that I never promised I was any good at it. Or even remotely original. You all knew what you signed up for. :smallwink:

[Alteiner]

.... I need an opinion on something Stupid.


Do it. I don't particularly mind if the party's charge has a kind-of weird familiar. Everyone's kit is at least a little weird as it is.

[ScrambledBrains]

....I need an opinion on something Stupid.

https://i.imgflip.com/34069e.jpg

[Athaleon]

Some small homebrewing of an NPC's unique familiar seems well within a GM's prerogative.

[Arael666]

Sorry for the delay in response, I was working yesterday and helping my fiancé with the marriage arrangements. I came home so late I simply didn't have the energy to write.



.... I need an opinion on something Stupid.

I say do it too, but now you're gonna need a separate folder with tons of picture of sugar gliders to ilustrate him

[ScrambledBrains]

Quick question for everyone; How long should we wait for everyone to post before posting again? I know that slowdown can kill PBP games but I also don't want to be rude and post twice in the introduction phase of the game before everyone else has even posted once.

[namo]

I don't have any problem with that, BRains.

Nor with the DM introducing the Sugar Glider... who is in truth a Baleful-Polymorphed level 40 fighter (the one from the legend, turned immortal) who will render all our characters moot. :smallwink:

[Arael666]

Quick question for everyone; How long should we wait for everyone to post before posting again? I know that slowdown can kill PBP games but I also don't want to be rude and post twice in the introduction phase of the game before everyone else has even posted once.

Since the holydays ended, my opinion is that we should try to post at least every other day (3-4 times a week). I know RL can get busy and we need to be understanding in that regard, but we also need to keep the game going

[Kuro Dmon]

I say do it too, but now you're gonna need a separate folder with tons of picture of sugar gliders to ilustrate him

Nor with the DM introducing the Sugar Glider...
I'll go ahead with it, then. Frankly, for Leena, I'm still holding true to what I said in the Recruitment, where even if there's things I want to put together in dumb ways (and potentially not even RAW ways, but that I'd asked a few people both in and out of thread on how balanced they could be), I still don't want to just do it "because I can" or because "I'm the DM". She's meant to be a supporting character, but still mostly bound by the established rules...

But yeah, Sugar Glider buddy it is. I wonder if it'd be inappropriate to link a different youtube short or video every time he's mentioned. :smallbiggrin:


who is in truth a Baleful-Polymorphed level 40 fighter (the one from the legend, turned immortal) who will render all our characters moot. :smallwink:
Oh, those horror stories keep me up at night and I've only heard of them. Even if I make some of the antagonists strong enough to threaten the team, I'd never something like that. Even with a few allowances, Leena is built exactly as I swore she'd be: heal happy, buff capable, skill capable, non-combatant as squishy as she appears. (https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1181052665476689920/1192689333585592330/Disguised_Leena.png?ex=65a9fd80&is=65978880&hm=b29f69e198f142fa735d1750ce106f0f4d9ac0626ca5e7f 6d7815b751606b6e3&) (I wonder if this link works...)

...mind, a potential bonus boss against an Epic level Warrior of some type.... let's see how far we get first, haha.



Quick question for everyone; How long should we wait for everyone to post before posting again? I know that slowdown can kill PBP games but I also don't want to be rude and post twice in the introduction phase of the game before everyone else has even posted once.

I don't have any problem with that, BRains.

Since the holydays ended, my opinion is that we should try to post at least every other day (3-4 times a week). I know RL can get busy and we need to be understanding in that regard, but we also need to keep the game going
I'm a bit torn on it myself. I wanted to wait until everyone had posted before Slot 8 spoke herself. And then from there, 2-3 posts a week, with much more immediate responses inbetween rounds of combat.

On the other hand, I feel like I already should have posted, because I was seeing the bakery a little differently. I was going to establish that Lady Carina *bought out* the establishment for an hour so the party could gather and talk in some sense of privacy...
I was wondering about if changing up her familiar might also have been a ripple, but I suppose messages being sent out by bird is pretty appropriate still, isn't it.

Quick Edit: the contrast between Freki and Leena is one I thought was particularly funny. A former pirate being called out as impressive and fair is kinda funny.

[Arael666]

On the other hand, I feel like I already should have posted, because I was seeing the bakery a little differently. I was going to establish that Lady Carina *bought out* the establishment for an hour so the party could gather and talk in some sense of privacy...

sorry about that, I guess I jumped the boat a little bit.

Also, I was having a hard time differentiating between each charcter posts, and I believe it might be the case for other people. So I added a little template with the charcters name, portrait and a little bit of information for the DM. If you guys don't think that's necessary I'll go back to the former format

[Kuro Dmon]

sorry about that, I guess I jumped the boat a little bit.

Also, I was having a hard time differentiating between each charcter posts, and I believe it might be the case for other people. So I added a little template with the charcters name, portrait and a little bit of information for the DM. If you guys don't think that's necessary I'll go back to the former format

Heh. Jumping the boat a bit helped poke for a response, so I wouldn't say it's the worst thing to have done.

As for posts, I could try to make something for my own if need be, though I suppose I'm lucky that I don't have that problem, for the most part. Used to when I was younger, but I'm a lot more careful about not missing posts now.

Did lead to a funny incident where I accidentally made my Bard more badass in the past. Party member in the intro failed to get his attention, and ended up throwing a coin at the back of his head, and I roleplayed that my Bard was leading him to a destination while talking to other folk, and caught the coin without looking. XD

Also got stuck at work one time during a PTU game taking off, and roleplayed an absence by having the character trying to wrangle her Pokemon even while other friends around her were trying to get her attention. Hilarity ensued when she attempted to address the 5ish people trying to get her attention in character. :smalltongue:

And speaking of funny, the contrast between Freki coming in and engorging herself and eating like a Shonen Protagonist, while others file in with various states of trust vs trepidation, and then seemingly Sieghart half expecting this girl, half his weight and basically smaller than everyone assembled, to somehow be or present a threat. Though it's also somewhat silly that Lady Carina would send a member of her court to a remote location completely alone, with only her own pets for company, haha.


I do have a question that, I admit, in not wanting to push Discord as an OOC system, I failed to ask about in recruitment: What is the best way to reach folk, assuming they don't check the forum frequently? I know at least one of you I do have access to via Discord, so any potential problems they can reach me directly, and aside from my job or sleep schedule, almost instantly since I check my phone like every few hours at minimum. I guess it's not too big a concern for those that do, but something I felt like throwing out...

And chase it with a more free thought. I know some of the party has familiars and companions, some of us aided by them for the sake of travel and combat. Those of us that don't, you can refund any purchased mounts being used just for travel, unless you so sincerely wish it. Among other things I wanted to use/establish after this opening will be most of the party traveling via Wagon, pulled by a very dedicated chicken. Those who choose to ride their own mounts can just be part of this makeshift caravan. :smalltongue:

[ScrambledBrains]

I do have a question that, I admit, in not wanting to push Discord as an OOC system, I failed to ask about in recruitment: What is the best way to reach folk, assuming they don't check the forum frequently? I know at least one of you I do have access to via Discord, so any potential problems they can reach me directly, and aside from my job or sleep schedule, almost instantly since I check my phone like every few hours at minimum. I guess it's not too big a concern for those that do, but something I felt like throwing out...

Honestly, I'm on GITP most of the time I'm on my computer and I check it on my phone usually at work on my lunch break, so I'll usually be aware of any messages here within a few hours, a day at most.

[Arael666]

Honestly, I'm on GITP most of the time I'm on my computer and I check it on my phone usually at work on my lunch break, so I'll usually be aware of any messages here within a few hours, a day at most.

Same for me, and that can be also true with discord if we decide to use it. I have the app too

[Alteiner]

I don't necessarily mind a Discord server for OOC stuff, though I check the forums pretty much every day before work and when I get home.

[Kaouse]

Sorry for the late post.

I had a bit of a health issue I was dealing with for the last few days, but I should be good to go now.

I'll try to make at least one post per day, possibly more.

[Kuro Dmon]

Just being able to know what people are doing in case there is some sort of disturbance, or being able to reach out is enough for me. I know that life ain't easy and we can't all be glued to our computers one hundred percent. Just in case anything happens, like me needing a way to more easily reach out when my laptop's being lame and I'm an 8 hour drive / 3 hour flight from my primary set up. :smalltongue:

I am trying to adjust my Giantitp settings so that if I am PM'd, my email alerts me... though while my email gets it, getting my phone to give me a pop up about it isn't as easy as I'd like....


In other news, working on a reply! Some of y'all, y'all got theatrics.

[Kuro Dmon]

Double Posting because I want this seen: I've got PMs about to go out to a few people for perceived knowledge relevant to what is about to be inferred, specifically Knowledge Local, and Knowledge Religion. I know who I was going to send this to at a glance, but I was going to ask if I might be overlooking any special abilities in that matter.

Also, I hope it's not an issue if I send people PMs for IC Info for them to know/share with others. Some knowledge (like Aldebaran being a state a bit over a thousand miles to the east of Benetnasch, and being a metaphorical stone's throw away from the Scarred Lands (I forgot I gave this land a proper name. :smalltongue: ) would be at least semi-common knowledge, but other details sound a bit more interesting when they get to come from the player's mouths. :smalltongue:

Also also, I better clear out my own message inbox. I thought I had plenty of room, but I suddenly fear I might not. :smalleek:

I thiiiink I responded to everyone, and gave out folk sufficient information for each to contribute (even with a few overlapping a bit). So I hope we can proceed well enough.

[ScrambledBrains]

If I wasn’t at work, I’d already be writing a reply. But since I am, I’ll try to get a post in a few hours.

[Kuro Dmon]

And this is one of the funny things about using Die to Roleplay. And I guess an upside to Diplomacy/Intimidate not being allowed to be used on PC's to change their minds on folk. Even if I had written something profound and compelling to have Leena convince Sieghart to trust her and her master, rolling a 5 (+20 modifier be damned) (https://forums.giantitp.com/showsinglepost.php?p=25945013&postcount=2) makes me roll my eyes. This is why I should always take 10 myself. :smallsigh:

If none of the others post by the end of today, I might have her attempt to address him.... and make a buttload of more rolls in the process. :smalltongue:

[Alteiner]

I actually tried pretty hard to clarify that Sieg's stance isn't "I don't trust you" but "I think it counts as mission critical whether we're keeping this a secret from a panicked public or someone who might try and stop us, because either option will necessitate different precautions being taken." I don't know; maybe I'm not making it clear enough.

[Kaouse]

It looks like we're gonna be facing a lot of Undead in this campaign.

Not exactly the best thing for a guy focused on poisons to be fighting, lol. That said, if we're still allowed to make minor adjustments, I'd like to be able to take an extra drawback in the Alchemy Sphere, which would allow me to pick up the talent "Specialized Venom," so that I can affect certain creature types that might otherwise be immune... namely undead.

For what it's worth though, the only drawback that I'd be able to take with my current character is Mana Chemistry, which makes my Alchemy Sphere poisons (and eventual formulae) count as magic for the purposes of spell resistance and dispel.

Note that this only applies to Alchemy Sphere poisons (and to my stinkbomb flasbangs as part of Harmacist). Also note that there's a tradeoff of various pros and cons when it comes to using a poison as an "Alchemy Sphere" poison vs a non-Alchemy Sphere poison.

[Alteiner]

If undead are going to consistently be an issue, I'll have to pick up Ooze Ichor and Essence Manipulation for bleeding the bloodless sooner than expected. Not really an issue at the moment, because I can just grab them through adaptation, but it would still be ideal to not have to use a limited-use per-day ability for it.

[Kuro Dmon]

I actually tried pretty hard to clarify that Sieg's stance isn't "I don't trust you" but "I think it counts as mission critical whether we're keeping this a secret from a panicked public or someone who might try and stop us, because either option will necessitate different precautions being taken." I don't know; maybe I'm not making it clear enough.

... it's less an error on your end, and more that my lazy carcass missed that amount of emphasis because I had physical therapy today, and they made sure to wear me out...


It looks like we're gonna be facing a lot of Undead in this campaign.

Not exactly the best thing for a guy focused on poisons to be fighting, lol. That said, if we're still allowed to make minor adjustments, I'd like to be able to take an extra drawback in the Alchemy Sphere, which would allow me to pick up the talent "Specialized Venom," so that I can affect certain creature types that might otherwise be immune... namely undead.

For what it's worth though, the only drawback that I'd be able to take with my current character is Mana Chemistry, which makes my Alchemy Sphere poisons (and eventual formulae) count as magic for the purposes of spell resistance and dispel.

Note that this only applies to Alchemy Sphere poisons (and to my stinkbomb flasbangs as part of Harmacist). Also note that there's a tradeoff of various pros and cons when it comes to using a poison as an "Alchemy Sphere" poison vs a non-Alchemy Sphere poison.

If it helps, it won't just be undead. Plenty of, of course, but aberrations, bandits, (things that count as) evil outsiders, other warriors, and the occasional caster.

You still have time to make your adjustments; characters were picked on general vibes of their abilities, along with roleplay, rollplay, and a spot of luck. So if you want to have some acid/venom to help ensure you can mow-down zombies, you can.

Though even if there were a heavy amount of undead, I'd go out of my way to give someone limited against them something else relevant to do.


If undead are going to consistently be an issue, I'll have to pick up Ooze Ichor and Essence Manipulation for bleeding the bloodless sooner than expected. Not really an issue at the moment, because I can just grab them through adaptation, but it would still be ideal to not have to use a limited-use per-day ability for it.

Hm... I wonder how many uses a day Leena has for what anti-undead tech she has. Sticking to how I swore i'd build her, she might not even be carrying as much as a chastity dagger, let alone anything in terms of normal combat. But in most cases, the more healing one has access to, the more they can put the hurt on zombie butt.

But yeah, same with Kaouse; you have room to make those adaptations still, but I sincerely doubt you need to. Undead are a quarter of what you'll encounter, but if this was an Undead heavy game, it'd be based more on Bloodborne than Soul Calibur (though I admit Dark Souls does hit a fine line between the two).

[ScrambledBrains]

I'm only really familiar with Code Vein. :smalltongue:

Though, for the record, Code Vein is a fantastic game with an AMAZING character creator.

[Arael666]

Hi guys, sorry for being absent, I was having internet issues in the family farm. But now I'm back home and can post more regularly.

I'll read everything that went on and I should PM a couple of people before posting

[Kuro Dmon]

I'm only really familiar with Code Vein. :smalltongue:

Though, for the record, Code Vein is a fantastic game with an AMAZING character creator.

I gotta laugh, because that's one of the Soulslike games I haven't played personally. I believe one of my friends streamed it for me a bit a few years ago, but the only thing I really remember is the limited Zero Punctuation review of it; Dark Souls but even more anime and with hotsprings.

..... is there room for us to add a hotsprings episode to this adventure, I wonder. :smalltongue:

But I am somewhat aware of [Code Vein], if only tangentally. Might could change that in the future.


And on the subject of character creators, I could probably work around it for your first encounter, but I was actually going to try to take a pass at some tech to try to create images for those who didn't already have them. Assuming your latest character descriptions were still accurate. Alaric and Sieghart, and indeed Darvan.

I'm aware of some of the controversy around the aforementioned tech. I know both sides are pretty passionate about it, too. I'd like to hope, just in case I lit a spark here in mentioning it, that we can be civil regardless of what anyone things.

As for what I think; first and foremost above anything else, I think it should only be used for non-profit purposes. Anything involving the actual trade of money, like art for the cover of a product or whatever, absolutely should not involve bot tech. Actually get the references and descriptions needed for your project if it's going to move to commercial matters.

But for casual things, like just making silly references for a play by post game that isn't expected to get turned into a monetization podcast or book or anything, I don't think it's impactful enough to hurt anyone on that level. Not when half the time the alternative is people just taking art for their face-claims anyway.

Possibly relevant to the convo is that I do not use any of the monetized models, and that I stand by legislature against AI being made to just steal voices/likenesses/art from creators... which I admit is a somewhat mixed perspective, isn't it.


Hi guys, sorry for being absent, I was having internet issues in the family farm. But now I'm back home and can post more regularly.

I'll read everything that went on and I should PM a couple of people before posting

I feel a bit better about waiting to PM you to see if things were okay. I'm spoiled for my own internet speeds (when Comcast is behaving, anyway), even with the Forum having its various hiccups. You and Da'Shain had me worried for a bit; the latter still, frankly. I tried using the forum to send them an email, and everyone should have gotten a PM that helped trigger additional roleplay a bit ago.

I was going to go for an update, but between giving you a bit of time to post, giving Da'Shain time to reply/check back in, and potentially see if anyone else feels like replying to the idea of the contract (which you better believe Leena already has a retort to; one that would affect every single character mechanically), I'm gonna wait until Wednesday before her answer.

[Arael666]

I feel a bit better about waiting to PM you to see if things were okay. I'm spoiled for my own internet speeds (when Comcast is behaving, anyway), even with the Forum having its various hiccups. You and Da'Shain had me worried for a bit; the latter still, frankly. I tried using the forum to send them an email, and everyone should have gotten a PM that helped trigger additional roleplay a bit ago.

I was going to go for an update, but between giving you a bit of time to post, giving Da'Shain time to reply/check back in, and potentially see if anyone else feels like replying to the idea of the contract (which you better believe Leena already has a retort to; one that would affect every single character mechanically), I'm gonna wait until Wednesday before her answer.

Yeah, the internet there comes and goes as it pleases. And lately the playground has been very slow even on my connection at home.

Regarding the contract, Baldret has already accepted the terms, he is a man of his word and no piece of parchment can replace that.

[ScrambledBrains]

Honestly, the only reason I played Code Vein is because one of my IRL friends helped me through it, since it has two-player co-op and he's a Souls series veteran. I will say though, if you want all the trophies for it/want to see everything in it, be prepared for a bit of a slog, since you need to do four runs on one character.

As for our game, I'm also refraining from posting now since A: I'm trying not to be 'That Guy' on a PBP game who monopolizes everything and B: Darvan has already pledged his support and he has no real frame of reference for this contract Dorian is preparing, so he doesn't want to speak up until Leena replies.

[namo]

Da'Shain has been incommunicado in another game (on another board). Hoping is everything is OK for them, but I think you can move forward, and at worst they'll catch up.

Yeah, Dre'k will not be into the contract much either, but I refrained from posting about him tearing it up - we don't need too much drama this early on.:smallwink:

[Kuro Dmon]

Regarding the contract, Baldret has already accepted the terms, he is a man of his word and no piece of parchment can replace that.

I am curious if you worked out the two of you knowing each other already. That's certainly neat! News to me, but I'm not against it. Even if we'll be doing combat in a few posts, it's definitely fun to have established some dynamics and learned about each other.

Mind, I am a little confused about that last bit of wording in your post. Is that also something that was worked out? If not, be careful about wording someone else' character as part of your reply. (says a Dm who's gonna have to do similar with a PC in a sec. :smalleek:)


Honestly, the only reason I played Code Vein is because one of my IRL friends helped me through it, since it has two-player co-op and he's a Souls series veteran. I will say though, if you want all the trophies for it/want to see everything in it, be prepared for a bit of a slog, since you need to do four runs on one character.

I love Souls Co-op. I'm one of folk who are at least decent at the games (mind I still need to tackle Elden Ring, but I also 100%'d Hollow Knight during my time off, so there's that), but I absolutely recommend playing it with friends. I don't like the theme of "The world's screwed and everyone's screwed so bite the pavement"; I much prefer "The world's screwed, but we're all in this together so we can try to make the most of it!". And seeing folk explore it for the first time is pretty fun, at least for me. Done it a few times at this point.


As for our game, I'm also refraining from posting now since A: I'm trying not to be 'That Guy' on a PBP game who monopolizes everything and B: Darvan has already pledged his support and he has no real frame of reference for this contract Dorian is preparing, so he doesn't want to speak up until Leena replies.


Yeah, Dre'k will not be into the contract much either, but I refrained from posting about him tearing it up - we don't need too much drama this early on.:smallwink:

Leena will be replying this evening/tomorrow morning, then. In a couple hours if I can wrangle it. She also isn't familiar with how contracts work. Hilarity ensues. :smalltongue:

[Arael666]

I am curious if you worked out the two of you knowing each other already. That's certainly neat! News to me, but I'm not against it. Even if we'll be doing combat in a few posts, it's definitely fun to have established some dynamics and learned about each other.

Mind, I am a little confused about that last bit of wording in your post. Is that also something that was worked out? If not, be careful about wording someone else' character as part of your reply. (says a Dm who's gonna have to do similar with a PC in a sec. :smalleek:)

They fought side by side and have a mutual trust in each other's capabilities and morals, but they are not close enough that they can be called "friends". At least thats what Baldret thinks. So I figured they could build a closer relationship as they interact.

Also, I PM'd Athaleon with my update before I made the post asking for his permission, I would never have done that hadn't he gave me the ok. But other than that, the coment has no further meaning (yet. we might include some flashbacks in the future now that you gave the idea :smalltongue: ).

[Kuro Dmon]

Also, I PM'd Athaleon with my update before I made the post asking for his permission, I would never have done that hadn't he gave me the ok.

I shouldn't have even remotely suspect anything of the sort. A different friend had been spending time with me with those CritCrab tabletop videos, and boy have those been as entertaining as they've been horrifying.

...then again, they also warn me about some of the potential pitfalls I can only hope I'm not walking into, so we'll see.

Speaking of we'll see, I wonder who'll react to this update first, and how. Adventurers might be used to more money than just warriors, but I'd like to think that might still be a lot to most folk. :smalltongue:

[Da'Shain]

I'm here, I'm here! Things went a bit crazy at work after the vacation and I've been running around, sorry I didn't make time to come check here. Anyone else having trouble even accessing the forums sometimes?

In the future, if there is a need to move forward feel free to puppet my character for a bit or assume she's going along, I won't mind; pretend she's just been sipping booze and pasting a knowing smile on her face despite knowing nothing. To be honest, the discussion of the finer points of mercenary contracts is a fortuitous time for Freki's attention to have wandered, as she would have basically nothing but jokes to contribute to it.

[Kuro Dmon]

I'm here, I'm here! Things went a bit crazy at work after the vacation and I've been running around, sorry I didn't make time to come check here. Anyone else having trouble even accessing the forums sometimes?

In the future, if there is a need to move forward feel free to puppet my character for a bit or assume she's going along, I won't mind; pretend she's just been sipping booze and pasting a knowing smile on her face despite knowing nothing. To be honest, the discussion of the finer points of mercenary contracts is a fortuitous time for Freki's attention to have wandered, as she would have basically nothing but jokes to contribute to it.

A) YES. DEAR GOD YES THE FORUM'S BEEN CRAY-CRAY RECENTLY. I need to get my tech up so I can actually contribute to the site thread trying to monitor it. I really hope we aren't going to have troubles like we did a few years ago when it just straight up died for a while.

B) You were SUPER the longshot in regard to "who I expected to reply first". I'm very much glad to have been wrong! I'm trying to be permissive about that sort of thing, particularly with the forums being crazy and it being right after the holidadiess. (In a different game, I had a friend who I even added in Discord who disappeared while I was on my flight during this game's recruitment, and I hadn't noticed until I got back from my trip. Turns out, her computer apparently *literally* exploded, which is about as valid an excuse as any to have not been able to keep up.)

And C) I figured, at least up until the combat that's going to be starting soon, I could have role-played Freki exactly like that. Stuffing her face, and distracted by the shiny, even with more going on in the back of her head than that, haha.

Though quick q; Your little sheet shortcut thing (which looks cool; if Leena weren't being made on a Google Doc I'd want one) says Freki's got a whopping 50 AC, but her sheet says it should be 29? o.o

[Da'Shain]

A) YES. DEAR GOD YES THE FORUM'S BEEN CRAY-CRAY RECENTLY. I need to get my tech up so I can actually contribute to the site thread trying to monitor it. I really hope we aren't going to have troubles like we did a few years ago when it just straight up died for a while.

B) You were SUPER the longshot in regard to "who I expected to reply first". I'm very much glad to have been wrong! I'm trying to be permissive about that sort of thing, particularly with the forums being crazy and it being right after the holidadiess. (In a different game, I had a friend who I even added in Discord who disappeared while I was on my flight during this game's recruitment, and I hadn't noticed until I got back from my trip. Turns out, her computer apparently *literally* exploded, which is about as valid an excuse as any to have not been able to keep up.)

And C) I figured, at least up until the combat that's going to be starting soon, I could have role-played Freki exactly like that. Stuffing her face, and distracted by the shiny, even with more going on in the back of her head than that, haha.

Though quick q; Your little sheet shortcut thing (which looks cool; if Leena weren't being made on a Google Doc I'd want one) says Freki's got a whopping 50 AC, but her sheet says it should be 29? o.oYeah, that AC was a mistake because I copied the format from another game I'm in and forgot to edit that part; should be fixed now.

Alternately glad I'm not the only one having site issues and apprehensive about the site issues themselves. I'll try not to let it fall by the wayside any further.

[Kaouse]

I'm thinking that we should probably move things along into a combat before people lose too much interest.

[Arael666]

I'm thinking that we should probably move things along into a combat before people lose too much interest.

I tought my character stated this in the IC thread, but re-reading it I realized I said it in a response (https://forums.giantitp.com/showsinglepost.php?p=25946817&postcount=44) to KuroDemon. So, would it be ok if we just assume that it's implicit that Baldret is not gonna sign the contract? I'd also like to move forward to the combat :smallwink:

[Kaouse]

Perfectly fine by me, I think we should just assume that whoever wanted to sign it, signs it.

It's not really important, it's just something I thought my character would do considering his backstory.

I didn't really intend for it to take too much time.

[Da'Shain]

Freki was never going to care overmuch about contract wording when she doesn't care overmuch about contracts in general, so she's attempting to sweeten the pot and move things along with her offer of wine; feel free to skip past it.

[Kuro Dmon]

I apologize for having lost way too much time this weekend between family and personal obligations, or this post would have been in progress 2 days ago. :smallsigh:

So, I'm trying to work on something for the sake of "skipping past it". (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1S3rHMoE6a19qn1YuZ6-ut11yRuz_iUkofVH6RSm_ezg/edit#gid=0) I'm sad that Google Docs isn't being the easiest when it comes to adjusting for this sort of thing, though. In particular, I seem to have no control over which images stay above the battle map.

I think I can provide links to it and find somewhere to upload them to, if that works for everyone?

And speaking of images; Alteiner, ScrambledBrains, Athaleon, and anyone who has a mount; I'll try to use stand-in images for the aforementioned characters, unless you'd possibly find one you'd like to use yourselves?



Random comment, for those of us using Mythweavers sheets, you should update your passwords and make sure you can still log in properly to your sheets, just in case. Looks like they had a breach recently.

[namo]

I think it's fine if you use characters instead of images if it's easier. (This requires a legend though.) E.g. U1, U2, U3 are the 3 Undead, ...

[Athaleon]

A stand-in image is fine. I have a hard time finding images for my characters, since I get so particular about it, so better if you pick one for me.

[ScrambledBrains]

I've been trying to find a decent picture for Darvan, but so far, I'm rolling snake eyes. So, I'm ok with a stand-in as well.

[Kaouse]

Can we not just use the images in our myth-weavers sheets?

[Athaleon]

I've been asked again by our DM to provide an update. Kuro has been busy with real-world obligations, and the ongoing problems with the forums have made it impossible to actually post when there would otherwise be time to do it. It should be coming soon, even if the battle map won't be used for the first combat.

[Da'Shain]

Glad to hear it. Yeah, the forums have been extremely temperamental, I'm not surprised.

[Arael666]

I apologize for having lost way too much time this weekend between family and personal obligations, or this post would have been in progress 2 days ago. :smallsigh:

So, I'm trying to work on something for the sake of "skipping past it". (https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1S3rHMoE6a19qn1YuZ6-ut11yRuz_iUkofVH6RSm_ezg/edit#gid=0) I'm sad that Google Docs isn't being the easiest when it comes to adjusting for this sort of thing, though. In particular, I seem to have no control over which images stay above the battle map.

I think I can provide links to it and find somewhere to upload them to, if that works for everyone?

And speaking of images; Alteiner, ScrambledBrains, Athaleon, and anyone who has a mount; I'll try to use stand-in images for the aforementioned characters, unless you'd possibly find one you'd like to use yourselves?



Random comment, for those of us using Mythweavers sheets, you should update your passwords and make sure you can still log in properly to your sheets, just in case. Looks like they had a breach recently.

It seem perfect imo, I'm just not able to move the character since it was posted.


I've been asked again by our DM to provide an update. Kuro has been busy with real-world obligations, and the ongoing problems with the forums have made it impossible to actually post when there would otherwise be time to do it. It should be coming soon, even if the battle map won't be used for the first combat.

Yeah, it was even more dificult to access the forum from the cellphone for me. But the last couple of days have been mostly normal so I do believe the issue (whatever it was) has been fixed.

[Arael666]

Any news from our DM Athaleon?

[Arael666]

Anyone still here?

[Athaleon]

I'm still here. Haven't heard anything recently.

Edit: Just got an update. Post should be incoming, as well as a Discord link to facilitate communication.

[Kaouse]

Still here, too.

[ScrambledBrains]

Also still here.

[Kuro Dmon]

Alright. Let's fix a few things.

I'd been going back and forth on it for a minute, and I think I will be making a Discord for this after all. For a few reasons.

I recently faced a domestic abuse situation. It's fun not being able to afford your own place while living with someone who you feel is a physical threat to your life and having that proven on numerous occasions.

But even without that, if someone wants to question me or anyone else, they absolutely can, and it'd probably be even a smidge faster (though I will absolutely be checking the forum on a twice daily basis, now. My recent problem wouldn't have been as bad if I hadn't also been adjusting to finally being back at work after 7 months of complete inactivity. Seriously, I've apparently already lost 8 pounds from just after starting up again. :smalltongue:

I also think I can store images, both of maps and of characters, through Discord. At least, that's what seemed to have (https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1181052665476689920/1192689333585592330/Disguised_Leena.png?ex=65c5ad00&is=65b33800&hm=e5395d88c64bc5a2ac232745eb3c2b8092c181f036e3c45 07c3f07b4a519e18e&) been working for a few (https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1045391270304034897/1202397750877093918/00000-1978759347.png?ex=65cd4f2b&is=65bada2b&hm=a205688a068ae8a021f887a32e5f0d1361b410847d32566 af8ad229ecbd1ddfa&) attempted drafts of (https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1045391270304034897/1202404045432688681/00012-726023149.png?ex=65d68f88&is=65c41a88&hm=d297cdeb834f8345a06f0e4656814f47441f89a5ebe02b3 860cc74956f732a7c&) characters (https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/1180911113953620039/1202410906202673252/00022-2158664109.png?ex=65d695eb&is=65c420eb&hm=48e5da5eb57f528153a262aab7e7d322e84f593d240419e 75e76e7466d3d336d&), and I'll be trying that with map images as well. The character tech much prefers Waifus, and I would be happy for any additional suggestions.

So yeah, it won't be mandatory, but I think I will make it. Storage purposes, and because even when I'm not at my house or near my laptop, my cellphone is always on me, and my Discord can get to me through it.

Edit: I wonder if I should leave this link up (https://discord.gg/BkT4Cx8s) publicly for 7 days and see who clicks it, at the risk of random bots or trolls joining.... eh, I'll take the risk.



I'm hoping this google slide (https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/17GFRW40ohvNQYa_VB0KCvh6loajQ4m8F_ffNTIa-v-c/edit?usp=sharing) works a bit better than the chart I tried before. I could work with abstracted distances, but I figured for your abilities and for multiple enemies (which is typically better than just 1vparty), targeting should be preserved if possible.

The link should be visible to everyone, and at least comment-able through anyone. I'll try to get a proper pic per round up after work today, too.




I'm, again, sincerely sorry for this. Given past history, I knew life would slap me here and there, and I was afraid I'd be right to worry. Here's hoping I can go longer without it happening again, especially because I had been talking to friends about being eager for this.



And I can only hope you guys are just as eager as I am to finally hear these words:

Let's get some Initiative Rolled. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5h3sL8xQa0E&list=PL1qJyPL8SIRktN2OnnRkKcr5gtSr1Umxg&index=16)

[Kaouse]

Ey, you're back!

[Da'Shain]

Welcome back. I'm so sorry you've been put in such a situation, I hope you're in a safer place now.

[Athaleon]

Time for Initiative! [roll0]

[ScrambledBrains]

Hope you’re staying safe then, Kuro.

Initiative:[roll0]

Edit: …You can’t make this stuff up.

[Kuro Dmon]

Hope you’re staying safe then, Kuro.

Heh. Would taking an evening off of work because [what was thought to just be a cold might be strep throat] count as staying safe?

But things ARE improving for me, ultimately.


Edit: …You can’t make this stuff up.

Heh. If it helps, that's one less nat 1 you'll be able to roll in the future?

More seriously, it is a good time for me to remark that you don't lose too much time. First, reasonable pre-battle set up can be part of your post; Peeps mounting (what few) pets, initiators getting into stances, weapons drawn, etc. All part of getting into start position and getting ready.

And secondly, it isn't going to be Hard initiative. You can move within any sort of actions allies take; Darvan could, for example, take his turn at any time between, say, a Beast that rolled a 15 and one that rolled a 5, even with allies that roll a 13, 8, and 11. Just as an example. Feel free to coordinate if the opportunity presents itself.

[Da'Shain]

Jolly Initiative! [roll0]

[Arael666]

Rolling initiative: [roll0]

[ScrambledBrains]

Darvan activated the Frost enchantment on his Chakram and entered Formless Dance Stance, which gave him the effects of the See Invisibility spell and the Blur spell.

[Kaouse]

Initiative: [roll0]

Sorry for the late roll, work's a b*tch.

[namo]

Initiative: [roll0]
edit: it's missing a +1 from Haste, so actually 18

With so many of us, you might want to either roll Init for us, or have us preroll a bunch of Init rolls and store them for later use.

[namo]

Also, not sure how much stuff we can do pre-combat, but if he can use all the abilites I posted IC, he can roll his Init twice and take the best.
Init (2nd roll) [roll0]
Otherwise ignore this 2nd roll.

[Kuro Dmon]

Heh. So much for the dice roller thread. Guess it can stick around in case of an emergency.

[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]

[roll3]

[Kuro Dmon]

I've updated the map with position (https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/17GFRW40ohvNQYa_VB0KCvh6loajQ4m8F_ffNTIa-v-c/edit#slide=id.p)s based on our descriptions so far. Lemme know if it works out for most of us. I did my reasonings for most characters in the Discord, but I figured Darvan in particular would want to move away from the group just to get a better shot projectile wise, so let me know if that's wrong.

[Kaouse]

Knowledge (Dungeoneering): [roll0]

[Kaouse]

Fetch's Wrath Bonus Damage: [roll0]

[Kuro Dmon]

Initiative:[roll0]

Edit: …You can’t make this stuff up.

So, been a little talkative on the Discord during the time frame in which I had some breathing room at work, and this was a detail for *you* that went unchallenged; I'd be willing to swap Leena's initiative roll for Darvan's if you'd like. Just so there's no feeling of being skipped or anything during the first round. She doesn't need high initiative; she just needs to survive to keep driving the plot-mobile. :smalltongue:



And then just to post it here so that everyone would see it; expect an update.... probably Sunday, *maybe* Saturday. Plans for this weekend were supposed to be plans for last until I got sick, and I've got a Doctor's Appointment tomorrow.

Also, positions are placed kinda where they make sense (to me at least, anyway) with reference to everything else, at least initially, unless movement and specific spaces were expressed in post (so far just Dorian and Baldret, having jumped straight into combat during this phase, haha). With the map updated for spaces, I'll be happy to take any adjustment for anyone unhappy with what they see.

[Kaouse]

So, been a little talkative on the Discord during the time frame in which I had some breathing room at work, and this was a detail for *you* that went unchallenged; I'd be willing to swap Leena's initiative roll for Darvan's if you'd like. Just so there's no feeling of being skipped or anything during the first round. She doesn't need high initiative; she just needs to survive to keep driving the plot-mobile. :smalltongue:



And then just to post it here so that everyone would see it; expect an update.... probably Sunday, *maybe* Saturday. Plans for this weekend were supposed to be plans for last until I got sick, and I've got a Doctor's Appointment tomorrow.

Also, positions are placed kinda where they make sense (to me at least, anyway) with reference to everything else, at least initially, unless movement and specific spaces were expressed in post (so far just Dorian and Baldret, having jumped straight into combat during this phase, haha). With the map updated for spaces, I'll be happy to take any adjustment for anyone unhappy with what they see.

Like I stated in the Discord, my bird can initiate the Counter, Witness to Glory (https://libraryofmetzofitz.fandom.com/wiki/Witness_to_Glory). This will grant an ally of my choice a +10 initiative boost, as well as +12 temp hp for up to 8 minutes.

Because my bird is the one doing it, it won't interfere with my stated actions (bird didn't use a swift action to begin with).

Speaking of which, bird will always activate Berserking for extra temp hp. Just assume that's a constant, even out of combat.

[Kuro Dmon]

Like I stated in the Discord, my bird can initiate the Counter, Witness to Glory (https://libraryofmetzofitz.fandom.com/wiki/Witness_to_Glory). This will grant an ally of my choice a +10 initiative boost, as well as +12 temp hp for up to 8 minutes.

Because my bird is the one doing it, it won't interfere with my stated actions (bird didn't use a swift action to begin with).

Speaking of which, bird will always activate Berserking for extra temp hp. Just assume that's a constant, even out of combat.

I *think* that you technically can only have 1 Swift/Immediate action per round, even if this is technically like Round 0 (but not quite a surprise round to keep options open). So I think it'd be one or the other in regards to doing the Counter vs setting up your next Stance. It *would* mean that a 5th person would act before any of the enemies on Round 1, so up to you if you wanna edit that in and consider it better than switching up your stance, or wait for Scrambled's reply either way.

[Kaouse]

I *think* that you technically can only have 1 Swift/Immediate action per round, even if this is technically like Round 0 (but not quite a surprise round to keep options open). So I think it'd be one or the other in regards to doing the Counter vs setting up your next Stance. It *would* mean that a 5th person would act before any of the enemies on Round 1, so up to you if you wanna edit that in and consider it better than switching up your stance, or wait for Scrambled's reply either way.

Normally, yes, but the Ravenlord archetype (https://libraryofmetzofitz.fandom.com/wiki/Ravenlord?so=search) for Harbinger allows my Raven companion to initiate my own maneuvers with it's own actions. The only restriction is that I can't have both of us use a strike in the same round, but otherwise, the both of us can freely use Counters to our heart's content.

The bird can initiate Witness to Glory, since it didn't make use of it's swift, while I do all the stance stuff I talked about in my turn.

[ScrambledBrains]

So, been a little talkative on the Discord during the time frame in which I had some breathing room at work, and this was a detail for *you* that went unchallenged; I'd be willing to swap Leena's initiative roll for Darvan's if you'd like. Just so there's no feeling of being skipped or anything during the first round. She doesn't need high initiative; she just needs to survive to keep driving the plot-mobile. :smalltongue:



And then just to post it here so that everyone would see it; expect an update.... probably Sunday, *maybe* Saturday. Plans for this weekend were supposed to be plans for last until I got sick, and I've got a Doctor's Appointment tomorrow.

Also, positions are placed kinda where they make sense (to me at least, anyway) with reference to everything else, at least initially, unless movement and specific spaces were expressed in post (so far just Dorian and Baldret, having jumped straight into combat during this phase, haha). With the map updated for spaces, I'll be happy to take any adjustment for anyone unhappy with what they see.

Honestly, I'd be happy to grab her initiative if it's ok with you. And yeah, I could use a clear line of sight. Also, should I assume each square in the google doc is five feet? Just so I can tell if I'm in range for my Deadly Strikes feature. :smallcool:

[Kuro Dmon]

Honestly, I'd be happy to grab her initiative if it's ok with you.
Heh. Enjoy your promotion from the bottom of the initiative to the top. :smalltongue:
Reminds me I need to make sure the map includes Dorian's Dark Aura when I next get back to my computer....


And yeah, I could use a clear line of sight.
That is why I placed him a bit up, just to help with being able to aim at any of the 3 if he wanted to.


Also, should I assume each square in the google doc is five feet? Just so I can tell if I'm in range for my Deadly Strikes feature. :smallcool:
Correct. Tried to size accordingly, with Large Creatures taking up 2x2 Squares (and Huge 3x3; I might need to check to see if these guys are Large/Huge *long* and how that would apply, actually), and the rest of us Mediums just 1x1. Each Square is 5ft. Folks were placed in the starting grid unless they specified movement outside it (such as Baldret's Charge and Dorian's Teleport), and I figured Darvan would move away from the others while positioning himself. Feel free to specify a reasonable spot nearby (since we all came out of the shop in the bottom left, effectively).



Also, for everyone, I did specify, once we get out of this opening volley, what I meant by the initiative? You can post within any ally next to your spot in the table list, then I'll post for the enemies that would interrupt the next set of allies, and so on.

.... definitely not making any promises about that update officially starting this until Sunday at the latest. But I'm suddenly feeling hopeful for it being sooner than that.

[ScrambledBrains]

Just realized I'm first now...time to cut loose. :smallcool:

Though, if as per the Deadly Strikes rules, if these guys are immune to precision damage, then it doesn't work, which would be a bummer...but if I remember correctly, PF did make more things vulnerable to precision damage.

[Kaouse]

Just realized I'm first now...time to cut loose. :smallcool:

Though, if as per the Deadly Strikes rules, if these guys are immune to precision damage, then it doesn't work, which would be a bummer...but if I remember correctly, PF did make more things vulnerable to precision damage.

I asked about precision damage earlier, and was told that they weren't immune to it.

[Kuro Dmon]

PSA to everyone: make sure to log your inbox. ScrambledBrains, yours is completely full to the point of being unable to send a message.

I didn't have any input on additional direction for how Darvan looks, so I went with the brief description I remembered him having in the recruitment thread (https://forums.giantitp.com/showsinglepost.php?p=25926613&postcount=200). And this was ... a result, anyway (https://media.discordapp.net/attachments/1210679096791662612/1210684719419752558/Test_Darvan.png?ex=65eb7502&is=65d90002&hm=29d7948df1ceb8858c8ceeba8ceff193388d29452b3ffe4 d0b1f659fd03a99a3&=&format=webp&quality=lossless&width=496&height=662).

But yeah, wanted to ask if there's any additional refinements or details I could make, or if it's enough.

I'll also joke amusedly that I was going to post before the round officially started, but I'll factor your first act of the next slide into things, haha. I appreciate the dedication! The waiting would have been the hardest part, mind...

Alrighty then. Just to make sure it's seen here again; we officially in there. Scrambled/Darvan, Da'Shain/Freki, Namo/Dre'k, and Kaouse/Dorian, y'all up first. Then after that, it'd be Athaleon/Alaric and Arael/Baldret. Then after that, it'll be Leena, before immediately going into Round 2 with the first party following up!

Knowledge of what strengths and weaknesses they might have was parsed out to those who *could* make the Knowledge Checks, to be provided hopefully tastefully in character. Leena was Supposed to be able to help with that, but the Dice Roller said No... >.>

[ScrambledBrains]

Actually, I'd say that picture is pretty spot on for how I envisioned Darvan. Not too shabby for AI art. :smallbiggrin:

[Kaouse]

Info from Knowledge check:

Creature Type, confirmed as Aberration.
Immunities: Mind Affecting, Lightning.
Special Abilities: Breath Weapon, Damage Resistance, Fast Healing
Vulnerabilities: Acid, Fire.

[namo]

If Kuro PMed it to us (I got slightly info less than you, your roll was better), I think he didn't mean for us to just dump it OOC. :smallamused:

Dre'k is not very good with this stuff, so he mentioned some info IC about fire and acid, but (on purpose from me) not very clearly. Your PC can perhaps impart the info in a more cogent way.

[Kaouse]

Sorry, you're right. I just realized that I was sitting on the info and didn't want anyone doing something that my character would have known was useless, so I just info-dumped as quickly as possible.

[Kuro Dmon]

I've had my own growing pains, so I'm not too upset. Particularly since I had to effectively rebuild this encounter twice, just because of trying to account for whom was or wasn't around at the time of posting, and from trying to find the right balance for an intro fight. Which I think I'm still trying to figure out.

[Kuro Dmon]

Double Posting to make sure noticed, since it's part of future update. This is mostly important for Dre'k, Darvan, and potentially Dorian, but I'm down to see this on everyone. Already noticing and factoring it from Alaric's "Warning Roar", and from both his and Dre'k's "Aegis", but whom else has Immediate Action reactions / passive defenses to attack rolls for allies on deck?

Hoping to update before the week ends, but work week being what it is, and... plans being in motion... :smallwink:

[Kaouse]

Double Posting to make sure noticed, since it's part of future update. This is mostly important for Dre'k, Darvan, and potentially Dorian, but I'm down to see this on everyone. Already noticing and factoring it from Alaric's "Warning Roar", and from both his and Dre'k's "Aegis", but whom else has Immediate Action reactions / passive defenses to attack rolls for allies on deck?

Hoping to update before the week ends, but work week being what it is, and... plans being in motion... :smallwink:

Dorian has access to the counter, "Decree of Mercy" which makes the next damage instance a creature does turn into nonlethal damage. His bird can also initiate it for him, if his own immediate/swift action is unavailable.

Also, I think the round resets now, correct?

EDIT: Oh wait, no, Leena still has to go.

[Da'Shain]

Freki's ally-aiding counters are currently limited to Fear the Reaper (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/alternative-rule-systems/path-of-war/disciplines-and-maneuvers/eternal-guardian-maneuvers/#TOC-Fear-the-Reaper) (which will not work on these things as they're immune to mind-affecting) and Intruder's End (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/alternative-rule-systems/path-of-war/disciplines-and-maneuvers/eternal-guardian-maneuvers/#TOC-Intruder-s-End) (which is less directly ally-aiding and more just being able to pull out a surprise AoO if she needs to halt a charge or something).

[namo]

Dre'k indeed has the Aegis and the marks (-6 to attacks that do not include him, and 14% spell miss chance).

Other than that:
[AoO] Active Defense (http://spheresofpower.wikidot.com/shield#toc0) (Shield sphere): he grants +4 to AC to adjacent allies and himself vs 1 attack as an AoO, up to 7 times per round
[immediate] Flexible Cover + Towering Bulwark (Shield sphere): can grant total cover vs all attacks coming through 1 side of his square. Total cover negates most attacks. He can us it as an immediate vs 1 attack on an adjacent ally.
[immediate] Flickering Defense (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/alternative-rule-systems/path-of-war/disciplines-and-maneuvers/Riven-Hourglass-maneuvers/#flickering_defense) (Riven Hourglass): -4 to attack & roll twice take lower for 1 enemy attack, vs himself or 1 ally within 60ft

[immediate] Defending the Sky (https://www.d20pfsrd.com/alternative-rule-systems/path-of-war/classes/warder/warder-archetypes/hawkguard/#defending_the_sky_ex) (Hawkguard archetype): 2/day, use Flickering Defense vs all attacks for 1 round

He also has Temporal Body Adjustment (negate 1 condition), but that should not interfere with DM plans the large majority of the time (exception is if e.g. an enemy stuns him and then benefits from the decreased defense when in truth he negates the stun via the counter).

I tried to limit the counters, but as a Defender-type character he is bound to have some...

[ScrambledBrains]

The only immediate action Darvan has is that I can burn 1 Point from my Stalker Ki Pool to get a +4 on a Saving Throw. Otherwise, I got nothing. Really need to pick up some immediate action maneuvers at level 9.

[ScrambledBrains]

...So, I have a potentially stupid idea, Kuro...can I make an attack throw to try and cut the rope?

[Kuro Dmon]

...So, I have a potentially stupid idea, Kuro...can I make an attack throw to try and cut the rope?

I'm curious where you'd be aiming; a low roll directly at Leena might mean you'd cut more than just the ropes holding her in place. Aiming at the chord that the Orc is pulling on, or even at his hands, on the other hand...

But regardless, I'm not against trying to aim a called shot.

[ScrambledBrains]

Wait a minute...I have a better idea. But I need one more piece of information first...which square is the Orc standing in on the map?

[Kuro Dmon]

I picked a perfect time to wake up to be able to reply quickly! XP

I wish I had this part more prepared, as much as I was amused by this idea (I forgot that Freki's wonderful narration made me roll over after I was considering it), but map updated with at least basic Icons to roll with. I hope that will do for now? Assuming you guys don't murder them (because a D&D party might be a bit less kill-able than slavering abominations against nature, but they are messing with your bread and butter...), I might make art for them.

[namo]

Eh, I was going to have Dre'k try to "disarm" the orc, which I assume could work to make him let go of the rope.
We'll see who ends up doing what here.

(Also, I should have had Dre'k 5ft step closer to Leena last round; I forgot.
Hopefully she'll be a "good girl" and stop moving away from her protectors in the future. :smallwink:)

[ScrambledBrains]

I forgot to add Leena's Inspire Courage Competence Bonus to my Attack and Damage rolls. Should be a 24 to hit and if it does, a total of 9 damage.

[Kuro Dmon]

(Also, I should have had Dre'k 5ft step closer to Leena last round; I forgot.
Hopefully she'll be a "good girl" and stop moving away from her protectors in the future. :smallwink:)

Hey, she only took a 5-ft step forward. It's most everyone else that ran ahead this time. XD

In all seriousness, traveling wise, I imagine she would try to stay in the center of most party formations. The amusement at the group being caught with their pants down was just too much to not go for it at least once.

[Kaouse]

I'm curious where you'd be aiming; a low roll directly at Leena might mean you'd cut more than just the ropes holding her in place. Aiming at the chord that the Orc is pulling on, or even at his hands, on the other hand...

But regardless, I'm not against trying to aim a called shot.

I rolled to attack the rope, and I got a pretty decent attack roll, IIRC. Let me know if there are any issues.