TheRPGSite

A bit of a mini-game before we start to get things rolling, and to give the stragglers a bit of time to get their characters posted.  :)

You can tell a story about one other character.  The story will be true, but only from your perspective.  The person about whom the story is told cannot directly contradict the facts, but can alter the details later on.  Nothing intimate, no romantic liaisons unless the other person agrees, and so on.  We will go one at a time, and if you want to opt-out, you are certainly free to.  By all means, you can also take this opportunity to PM the player and work out the details with them.  Some of you can be from the same previous adventuring group, but no more than three from the same group.  No responding to the previous player just yet, that can come out during the adventure; your story has to be about someone that hasn't been included yet, the last person would then have a story about the first.  If you want to opt-out, Just post 'no story' before things get rolling.

One Horse Town was first to make a character, so he gets to go first.  Tell everyone who you are, what you look like, and how you got here.  You can then exposit about another character of your choice.

Looks like OHT is short on time, so Venosha can go first.

Did I mention there is an award of 1000xp for participating?  :)

Hmm. Does Venosha have to go first or can anyone just throw in?

Quote from: DeadUematsu;258858Hmm. Does Venosha have to go first or can anyone just throw in?

Venosha goes first, relates a snippet about One Horse Town, then One Horse Town chooses another character and relates a snippet.  That player chooses another character and invents some background fragment, and so on.  Only one fragment per character, so you can't choose someone that already has a fragment.  The last person to participate will necessarily write a fragment about the first person, in this case, Venosha's Monk.

Anyone who wants to opt out can do so, those that participate get a 1000xp bonus.  The fragments should be fairly short, a synopsis of one event your character has heard about or an encounter your character had with the other character.  Nothing radical, remember the other character's alignment, and be nice.  :)  

Post your fragment in IC using a narrative format, and don't worry too much about confirming things with the other player.  Have fun with it, and see what we can come up with!

If anyone is interested, we can use the Invisible Castle dice roller (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/).  Registration is free, and the dice convention is the same as OpenRPG, which I can post if anyone is interested.  Not that I don't trust anyone, but it might be easier than having to lug dice around all day and find a place to roll them where your cubiclemates won't start pestering you with questions.

Here is how it cuts-n-pastes:

  2d10 → [2,8] = (10)
   2d10 → [9,2] = (11)
   2d10 → [6,4] = (10)
   2d10 → [7,9] = (16)
   2d10 → [8,8] = (16)

Removing the formatting isn't fun in WYSIWYG mode, however.  I had to switch to plain text to find the closing bold tag.

Still, looks like a good option to keep track of the rolls.  It automatically copies the link to your clipboard, so you get pretty output like this:
Copy and Paste test (2d10=10, 2d10=11, 2d10=10, 2d10=16, 2d10=16) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1778020/)

It looks like Invisible Castle is able to use the dice functions as well, and you can combine them, as long as they don't contradict, so no .ascending().descending()  It looks like it performs them in Left to Right Order, so the last function is the one that will sort.

OpenRPG dice formula basics (http://openrpg.wrathof.com/faq/Die_Rolling):

You can roll dice by typing them manually into your text intry box under the dice toolbar (where you type your normal chat messages).
These dice rolls will always be in the same format:

[(# Dice)d(Sides of Dice)(+/- Modification or Function Call)]

Where:
(# Dice) Is the number of dice rolled
(Sides of Dice) Is the sides of the die rolled
(+/- Modification) Is the number added to or subtracted from the die roll with the sign
(Function Call) Is the .function called in format.

To keep it in perspective the following are all valid rolls:
[1d2]
[1d20+1]
[1d20-4]
[3d4+56]
[1d8+4d6-3]
[4d6.takeHighest(3)]
 
List of Functions Inluded in the standard (std) roller

.ascending()

    *Arranges the dice rolled from lowest to highest and then totals them.

      [5d6.ascending()] -> [2,2,5,5,6] = (20)

.descending()

    *Arranges the dice rolled from highest to lowest and then totals them.

      [5d6.descending()] -> [5,4,3,3,2] = (17)

.takeHighest(num)

    *Takes only the highest num rolls and totals them.

      [5d6.takeHighest(2)] -> [6,4] = (10)

.takeLowest(num)

    *Takes only the lowest num rolls and totals them.

      [5d6.takeLowest(2)] -> [1,3] = (4)

.extra(num)

    *Rolls an extra die if the number rolled is greater than or equal to num, then totals all the dice.

      [5d6.extra(5)] -> [[5, 4],[6, 3],3,1,3] = (25)

.open(num)

    *Rolls an extra die if the number rolled is greater than or equal to num, and rolls again if that roll is greater than or equal to num.

      [5d6.open(5)] -> [4,2,4,[5, 4],[6, 6, 6, 1]] = (38)

.minroll(num)

    *Re-rolls any dice that are less than num, then totals up only the rolls greater than or equal to num.

      [5d6.minroll(3)] -> [5,3,6,3,5] = (22)

.each(num)

    *Adds num to each die roll individually, then totals up the modified values.

      [5d6.each(-1)] -> [[3, -1],[5, -1],[4, -1],[3, -1],[2, -1]] = (12)

.vs(num)

    *Counts the number of rolls greater than or equal to num.

      [5d6.vs(4)] -> [6,3,1,4,1] = (2)

As a final note, you can perform arithmatic functions in brackets. That is to say you can +,-,/,* numbers when you enter them in [ ] and send them to chat.

Looks pretty complete, but somewhat complicated.  I can throw a few cut-n-paste standard rolls together if you want to use it but don't want to mess with the semi-scripting language.

Grey Pumpkin or anyone else participating, feel free to write about my halfling druid.

ugg...my first test roll on the site was a fumble....methinks it doesn't bode well.
Tim

Little swamped at the moment but should be able to post on Wednesday

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;259249Little swamped at the moment but should be able to post on Wednesday

No problem, I will let DeadUematsu jump in there, and you can do a write up on his character tomorrow.

Ok, DeadUematsu, you're up!  Anyone except GrayPumpkin, One Horse Town or Venosha.  When GrayPumpkin gets some time tomorrow, he will do your write up, then we will continue with whoever you chose to write up.

Timrichter9 chimed in, any other thoughts about the dice roller?

Quote from: StormBringer;259294No problem, I will let DeadUematsu jump in there, and you can do a write up on his character tomorrow.

Ok, DeadUematsu, you're up!  Anyone except GrayPumpkin, One Horse Town or Venosha.  When GrayPumpkin gets some time tomorrow, he will do your write up, then we will continue with whoever you chose to write up.

I wrote about Thaelie (that's Tim).

Ok, Tim, you are up.  Venosha, One Horse Town and Dead Uematsu have already gone, Gray Pumpkin will be writing up Dead Uematsu, so you can write up any of the other characters:


Sinjin767 - Elven Thief, still to post
Shellbee - Elven Ranger/Magic User, still to post
Oni Kadaki - Human Cleric - Sander Lightwalker
Eric E. - Human Fighter, still to post
Narf the Mouse - ? Magic User - still to name

It will be a bit more challenging to write up the players still working on characters, but a little challenge never killed anyone, right?  :)

Dead Uematsu:  I will have your halfling retainers posted tonight. (Sorry, I lost track of who was hiring them)

We can get to the hiring of retainers/hirelings and shopping trips after the intro, for whomever wishes.  You will not be expected to pick up and go immediately after the meeting with the Duke's proxy, so there will be some additional time to get last minute supplies the afternoon/evening following that meeting.

The list narrows.  Oni, it is your turn:

Sinjin767 - Elven Thief, still to post
Shellbee - Elven Ranger/Magic User, still to post
Eric E. - Human Fighter, still to post
Narf the Mouse - ? Magic User - still to name

If you want to write up Narf, then Narf can write up Venosha, and when the other three get characters posted, they can go in listed order.

Oh, sorry - Was a bit tired when I wrote up the full sheet and forgot to copy-pasta the write-up.

'Naren Ezer. Hmm...LN, cold, logical. I don't do neutral often, nor the other two.

Brought up by a distant and cold Wizard his parents 'apprenticed' (Read: Sold) him to, he scrubbed floors, cleaned dishes and learnt magic. It wasn't a loving environment, so he doesn't really know that emotion, but it was stable and reliable. He suspects he was taught magic because the wizard (Arceth Zezzar) didn't know what else to do with him and was LN as well, so fair pay for fair work.

He finished his apprenticeship at a mutually-agreeable age (Check ages) and left to adventure and as aquantances.

(Bit of a departure from the standard 'Sold into slavery' story. Suspect he was done a favor, in the end)'

It's also edited into the sheet.

Two notes:

First, I stayed up all night so I wouldn't oversleep and miss seeing my Mom off on her flight to see her sisters. So, I'm very tired and will post after I get some sleep.

Second, did I get magic items done? Because last I checked, OSRIC doesn't have them.

Oh, and a third - Just having the names proved a wonderful way to bypass my perfectionism. With nothing to compare, I just went with my instincts. :)

Forth :) - I tend to develop characters more in play than beforehand. :)

I'm a bit confused, is this minigame part of the in context thread or in this thread? I'll gladly post a story in either, just tell me what to do.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259490Forth :) - I tend to develop characters more in play than beforehand. :)

Ok, Oni is going to do a write up on you, then you are going to do a write up on Venosha, and the other three will do their write ups when they are set up.  Once Oni is done with yours and has it posted to IC, you can post the one for Venosha in roughly the same format as the ones in IC.

Quote from: Oni Kadaki;259522I'm a bit confused, is this minigame part of the in context thread or in this thread? I'll gladly post a story in either, just tell me what to do.

You have a bit of information to go on, so do your write up of Narf in the IC thread.

Quote from: StormBringer;259524Ok, Oni is going to do a write up on you, then you are going to do a write up on Venosha, and the other three will do their write ups when they are set up.  Once Oni is done with yours and has it posted to IC, you can post the one for Venosha in roughly the same format as the ones in IC.

That was an explanation for the scanty history. :)

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259543That was an explanation for the scanty history. :)

Oh, no problems there, I figured backstory would be an ongoing deal anyway.  :)

Dead Uematsu:

Ok, these are the fighters you can hire, if you so decide:

Meelar Belladonna
2nd level female Halfling Fighter

Str: 17
Int: 15
Wis: 12
Dex: 14
Con: 13
Chr: 13

HP:15
AC:3

Splint mail
Shield
Short Sword
Short Bow
Footman's Mace
Quiver w/ 20 arrows
Dagger(x2)
Backpack
50' rope
Bedroll
Blanket
6' staff
Dagger(x2)
2 Lg Sacks
4 Sm Sacks
2 Lg Pouches
4 Sm Pouches
Spare Clothes
High soft boots
Cloak

Teelar Belladonna
2nd level female Halfling Fighter

Str: 17
Int: 12
Wis: 15
Dex: 14
Con: 13
Chr: 13

HP:15
AC:3

Splint mail
Shield
Short Sword
Short Bow
Footman's Flail
Quiver w/ 40 arrows
Dagger(x2)
Backpack
Tinder&Steel
2 Lg Sacks
4 Sm Sacks
2 Lg Pouches
4 Sm Pouches
Bedroll
Blanket
6' staff
Spare Clothes
High soft boots
Cloak

...The Belladonna sisters...Are they offering berry pie?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259562...The Belladonna sisters...Are they offering berry pie?

No, but by the looks of them, the could make a pie out of your berries.  ;)

...That's why I have fireballs!

Hey, you started it.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259580...That's why I have fireballs!

Hey, you started it.

:D

You want to hire them?  They only work as a team, and it will be 425gp per month, and one share of treasure for them as a team.

No - OOC thing. Would be one more thing I'd have to divide my attention between. :)

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259900No - OOC thing. Would be one more thing I'd have to divide my attention between. :)

Errr?  You don't want to hire them?

Nope. The rest of the sentence is an explanation why. :)

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259905Nope. The rest of the sentence is an explanation why. :)

Oh, ok.  Pretty much all you would have to do is hire them and bark orders occasionally.  Running NPCs is for the guy in the Viking Hat.  Still going to pass?

Ehh...Yeah. :)

@Venosha: Do you have a write-up for your Monk? I couldn't find one.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259911Ehh...Yeah. :)

@Venosha: Do you have a write-up for your Monk? I couldn't find one.

No problem.

Venosha doesn't have a write up yet, that falls to you, and the circle will be closed.

Though someone else was going to write about me first?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;259923Though someone else was going to write about me first?

Oni will be doing that write up, but since the order is more or less determined at this point, there isn't a necessity for going in turn.  You are more than welcome to wait for Oni, if you want to add what he writes to your description of yourself, or you can write something up now.

What are the rates of hire? Assuming I offer my Gauntlets and my Wings to sweeten the pot.

Quote from: DeadUematsu;259943What are the rates of hire? Assuming I offer my Gauntlets and my Wings to sweeten the pot.

Crap, did I goof that up again?  Were you trying to hire them?

They will take 200gp for the first month if you throw in the magic items, give up their share of the magic, and only take a half share of treasure for the both of them.

[Straight face]Of course, they're probably Lawful Evil, so you can trust them.

We already have a lot of hands on deck, so I will definitely need to take into consideration what other people would like.

Quote from: DeadUematsu;260009We already have a lot of hands on deck, so I will definitely need to take into consideration what other people would like.

If you prefer.  As I mentioned when I thought Narf wanted the fighters ( :) ), you need only give instructions occasionlly, I will run them the rest of the time.

But now would be a good time to think about how to bring it up with the others.

Outstanding!  Excellent stories, one and all!

We are done with Phase I, everyone did a great job making up some backstory for each other, so everyone gets a bonus of 1000xp!

Ok, tomorrow morning, I will be setting up the next part, and we will continue from there.

Here's what I have so far for my character.  Please review and let me know if you have a comments or concerns.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Character Name: Thraim Glorerg
Player Name: Drohem

Multi-classed: Fighter 4th / Thief 5th
Race: Dwarf
Alignment: Neutral
Age: 73-years-old
Languages: Common, dwarven, gnomish, goblin, kobold, orcish, neutral, elven, halfling, Thieves Cant

ABILITY SCORES
STR- 18 (71%) [+2 hit; +3 damage; +125 lbs; open door 1-4,d6; bend bar 25%]
DEX- 14
CON- 17 [+2/+3 HPs; raise dead 98%; system shock 97%]
INT- 17
WIS- 11
CHA- 13 [5 max henchmen; loyalty 0%; reaction +5%]

HIT POINTS = 31 [fighter 36; thief 27]

ARMOR CLASS = 4 [Bracers of Defense AC 4]

COMBAT STATISTICS:
Base THACO = 17
Weapon Proficiencies = 6 (Double specialized in longsword and light crossbow)
Non-Proficiency penalty = -2

SAVING THROWS
Rod, Staff, or Wand = 8 [thief save + racial bonus]
Breath Weapon = 15 [thief save]
Death or Paralysis = 12 [thief save]
Poison = 8 [thief save + racial bonus]
Petrifaction or Polymorph = 11 [thief save]
Spells = 9 [thief save + racial bonus]

THIEF ABILITIES
Backstab [+4 to hit; x3 damage]
Climb Walls = 78% [thief +88%; dwarf -10%]
Find Traps = 56% [thief +41%; dwarf +15%]
Hear Noise = 22%
Hide in Shadows = 40%
Move Silently = 35% [thief +40%; dwarf -5%]
Open Locks = 61% [thief +46%; dwarf +15%]
Pick Pockets = 51%
Read Languages = 15% [thief +20%; dwarf -5%]

MAGIC ITEMS
Bracers of Defense AC 4
Longsword +1 [THACO = 11; 1d8+7/1d12+7; 7 enc]
Crossbow (light) of Speed +1 [THACO = 13; 1d4+4/1d6+4; 60 ft range; 4 enc]


MUNDANE EQUIPMENT
Bedroll [5 enc; 2 sp]
Caltrops [2 enc; 1 gp]
Case (map or scroll) [1 gp]
Chalk x10 [1 sp]
Crowbar [5 enc; 2 gp]
Flint & Steel [1 gp]
Grappling Hook [4 enc; 1 gp]
Ink (1 oz) [8 gp]
Lantern, bullseye [3 enc; 12 gp]
Mirror (small steel) [0.5 enc; 20 gp]
Oil (lamp), 3 pints [3 enc; 3 sp]
Parchment (sheet) x 20 [4 gp]
Pot, iron [10 enc; 5 sp]
Rations, trail x10 [10 enc; 5 gp]
Rope, silk (100 ft) [10 enc; 20 gp]
Shovel [8 enc; 2 gp]
Soap (1 lb) [5 sp]
Tent [20 enc; 10 gp]
Thieves Tools [1 enc; 30 gp]
Waterskin [4 enc; 1 gp]
Whetstone [0.5 enc; 2 cp]
Crossbow (light) bolt x40 [4 enc; 8 gp]
Riding horse with gear and feed
Pack horse with gear and feed

DWARVEN RACIAL ABILITIES:
-- +1 constitution, -1 charisma (with respect to all but dwarves)
-- +1 to hit against goblins, half-orcs, hobgoblins, and orcs.
-- +1 bonus per 3.5 points of Con to saves against magic and poison
-- -4 penalty to any attacks made against the dwarf by giants, ogres, ogre mages, titans and trolls.
-- Languages: Dwarven, gnomish, goblin, kobold, and orcish, and the common tongue and the appropriate alignment tongue. Regardless of intelligence, a dwarf may only ever learn two languages in addition to those listed.
-- Infravision 60 ft
-- Within ten feet, a dwarf can detect certain facts concerning engineering, stonework, etc. Although no significant time is required, the character must deliberately observe his or her surroundings (i.e., the player must state that the dwarf is using this particular talent in order to gain information).
•Detect the existence of slopes or grades: 75%
•Detect the existence of new construction: 75%
•Detect sliding or shifting rooms or walls: 66%
•Detect traps involving stonework: 50%
•Determine depth underground: 50%
-- Multiclass restrictions: the more restrictive of any two class requirements apply to multiclassed dwarven characters for the use of class abilities.
-- Permitted class options: Assassin, Cleric, Fighter, Thief, Fighter/Thief
-- Movement Rate: 90 ft

DWARVEN NAME MEANINGS (http://grey-starr.ca/Tools/random-male-dwarf-name.htm)
Thr (-Thra) = Black
aim (-and) = Slayer/Killer
Glor (-Glori) = Sliver/Glitter/Glittering
erg = Town

Quote from: Drohem;260160Here's what I have so far for my character.  Please review and let me know if you have a comments or concerns.

Good stuff.  Let's have you copy that over to the orginal thread, and edit it out of here to reduce the clutter.

Looks like a worthy addition to the party!

Quote from: StormBringer;260182Good stuff.  Let's have you copy that over to the orginal thread, and edit it out of here to reduce the clutter.

Looks like a worthy addition to the party!

Done. :)

I would really like to get a feel for the group.  I know this is Pbp, but I was wondering how often everyone feels they can post for this game?  Also, does everyone feel that the weekends should be off limits?  If anyone can't attend or something comes up, will they let the others know so the game might continue?  

Just a few thoughts.

Ok, the Captain has turned off the no smoking sign, you are free to move about the cabin.

You can talk to each other in IC, plan actions in OOC, ask questions in OOC or the original thread, or whatever.

I would like to have a once a day posting minimum, but we can work around and see what is comfortable for everyone.  Realizing we have some overseas participants, they may be responding a bit later in the day than the rest of us.

Just to keep the questions and answers in sync, if there are any questions about X2 or the adventure itself, lets try to keep those in OOC, and any questions regarding rules in general in the original thread.  Not a punishable offence, of course, but I think it will help keep things running smoothly.  I may whip up a few more guidelines over the weekend, and see where we are Monday morning.  Of course, I will be on the thread this weekend, so this isn't a call to stop all action for two days or anything.  :)

Ok, just so I have straight in my own head :), these are the people currently in play in the tavern?  Do I have the gender/race correct for everyone?

Snorri Steelskin: Dwarf male Fighter [One Horse Town]
Heathcliff Baltimore Greensberry: Halfling male Druid [DeadUematsu]
Theile Starslinger: Half-elf male Magic User [timrichter9]
Sander Lightwalker: Human male Cleric [Oni Kadaki]
Semina: Human female Monk [Venosha]
Kagan-Zur: Half-orc male Cleric/Assassin [GrayPumpkin]
Naren Ezer: Human male Magic User [Narf the Mouse]
Thraim Glorerg: Dwarf male Fighter/Thief [Drohem]

Got mine right.

Mine's right too.

Same for me

That's correct.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;260437Got mine right.

Yeah, but... you keep posting his name as Nar-an in the IC thread instead of Nar-en. ;)

Are you setting up a split-personality for your character? :p:D

...It's all the penguins' fault! They made me type the wrong letters!

The penguins, I say! The penguins!

*Gets dragged off*

Providing it meets with DM approval, I've decided on Morrigan, Celtic goddess of war (AD&D Deities and Demigods) as Kagan-Zur's deity. She's Neutral has assassin levels and is war-like.
While Kagan-Zur may have taken a contract killing or two in his day, he's mostly worked as an assassin in a military aspect, serving in one mercenary band or another as a spy and infiltrator, assassinating key enemies when needed. Being half-orc he can blend into many humanoid camps, half-orcs aren't that uncommon with bandits and brigands and when need be his disguise ability might let him pass as full orc or full human, albeit an unattractive one.

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;260809Providing it meets with DM approval, I've decided on Morrigan, Celtic goddess of war (AD&D Deities and Demigods) as Kagan-Zur's deity. She's Neutral has assassin levels and is war-like.
While Kagan-Zur may have taken a contract killing or two in his day, he's mostly worked as an assassin in a military aspect, serving in one mercenary band or another as a spy and infiltrator, assassinating key enemies when needed. Being half-orc he can blend into many humanoid camps, half-orcs aren't that uncommon with bandits and brigands and when need be his disguise ability might let him pass as full orc or full human, albeit an unattractive one.

Shady past, deity with questionable loyalties and morality...  Sounds like a plan.  :)

Please note that I'll be late posting today...Tonight, really. Probably sometime in the 'Very early tomorrow morning' sense of tonight.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;260814Please note that I'll be late posting today...Tonight, really. Probably sometime in the 'Very early tomorrow morning' sense of tonight.

Thanks for checking in, it shouldn't be a problem.  I will probably do another day or two of free-form, unless others want to play out the minute details of the next day and a half.  I was going to have everyone go shopping for last minute items, if they want, check out the village, &c.

Mundane items from the PHB will be available at listed cost.  Other items can be sought, and I will figure what would be available and how much it will cost. I think everyone is pretty much sitting on most of their 10k in gold still, so if anyone is still looking for transport or hirelings, let me know.  Hirelings will be standard workers; ie, porters, guides, animal handlers, and such.

Well, other than some initial thoughts and conversations to get the group cohesive, or established into clicks within the group :teehee:, I have no need to play-by-play the filler time until the Duke's Proxy arrives.  

I'll check and see if there's any last minute shopping that I want to do for Thraim, but I think that I'm good for now.

I hope that injecting some standard fantasy stereotypical racial prejudices into the mix isn't offending anyone.  Thraim's use of the word 'breed' is a dwarven term of endearment for half-orcs, I swear! ;):D

I don't plan to make it an issue for Thraim, or something that will detract from the game.  It really was just some flavor fluff.

Quote from: Drohem;260820I don't plan to make it an issue for Thraim, or something that will detract from the game.  It really was just some flavor fluff.

Excellent.  You can develop as much or as little character as you want, within the limits you have already noted.  :)

Quote from: Drohem;260820I hope that injecting some standard fantasy stereotypical racial prejudices into the mix isn't offending anyone.  Thraim's use of the word 'breed' is a dwarven term of endearment for half-orcs, I swear! ;):D

Not offended at all, not in the very least, I'm playing a freaking half-orc cleric/assassin, that's just asking for a heaps stereotypical racial prejudices thrown my way.
I just thought that interpreting your character eying him from recognition, as eying him with suspicion, would be a fun way to highlight Kagan-Zur's own suspicious nature and as well as some of his own racial prejudices.
Though for the most part, when it comes down to it he's all mercenary, he's getting hired to work with you guys, then that's what he'll do, dwarf, elf, coin is coin. And "staying bought" well that's just good business, go around betraying clients and soon you'll have no clients. And what's he gonna do if he can't get paid to kill things. ;)

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;260835I just thought that interpreting your character eying him from recognition, as eying him with suspicion, would be a fun way to highlight Kagan-Zur's own suspicious nature and as well as some of his own racial prejudices.

Cool, that's exactly how I read it.  Great job, btw, of running with it. :)

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;260835Though for the most part, when it comes down to it he's all mercenary, he's getting hired to work with you guys, then that's what he'll do, dwarf, elf, coin is coin. And "staying bought" well that's just good business, go around betraying clients and soon you'll have no clients. And what's he gonna do if he can't get paid to kill things. ;)

It looks like Thraim and Kagan-Zur already have something in common. ;)

Quote from: StormBringer;260758(I don't figure you would actually need one at this point.  How many books do you have?)

Error! Alert! Alert! Bibliophile process in conflict with IC process!

Um...Five. Not including his spellbook.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;260951Error! Alert! Alert! Bibliophile process in conflict with IC process!

Um...Five. Not including his spellbook.

Not that many.  A re-inforced pouch for the spell book, five other books...  In a larger town, you can probably pick up a bag of holding, but for now, I would say they fit in a somewhat oversized satchel/messenger bag.

Out of curiosity, what are these books?

EDIT:  Introducing them one at a time...  Nice touch.  :)

'101 Ways of Bypassing Security', by Unsigned. (Co-signed by a Paladin, with church stamp, saying that the thief who wrote it is Good)
'Dirty traps and tricks', by M.Y. Shiv. (Front cover and first thirty pages: 'Gardening, Flowers and You'. Yes, Naren has a nasty mind. He's Lawful with very little Good. That means 'Mercy for bandits and monsters' isn't really that interesting a concept for him...)
'Morovain's Contemplations of Death Magic', by Morovain. (One of the very rare Good necromancers. No remaining spellbooks of his are known to exist)
'Laws and Due Process', by Sir Reginalt, with Unwanted Commentary by The Guy You Never Caught. (The Unwanted Commentary version is both more expensive and more helpful, from both sides of the process. TGYNC had an odd sense of humor and fairness, apparently)
'A Short Treatise of the Ethics of Magic Use and the Many Quandaries and Concerns Therein, Revised Edition, Vol. 1 of 32, Introduction', by Quincy Morris, Librarian. (The Introduction is what most people would call 'Very thorough')


Oh, and can I add a bag of nails to his stuff?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;261154Oh, and can I add a bag of nails to his stuff?

You shouldn't have too great a problem finding nails, but they are pretty heavy.  100 nails to a bag, half a silver up to 2sp each bag, weight and cost depending on size.  You can get three or four bags of small nails, up to about 4d (http://www.sizes.com/units/penny.htm), but larger than that is going to be scarce, with the boom in construction going on.

Four dozen small nails should do...Er, how strictly are you enforcing weight limits?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;261162Four dozen small nails should do...Er, how strictly are you enforcing weight limits?

Not terribly, but I am watching them.  You all will (likely) have horses, so it isn't critical for most situations, but no one will be slinging the saddlebags over their platemail and pack full of gold to jog back to town, either.

EDIT:
We'll call it a half bag of 50 4d nails for half a silver, and it weighs a pound, or 10cn.

Ok, I should be just at the weight limit, then.

Thanks. :)

' It's been heard that one of the scouts the Duke sent out to investigate returned a broken man, spending most of his time sobbing or gibbering.

Nothing else of interest seems to be occurring around town, I assume you are supplied and equipped how you want? No other purchases to make?'

Well...That's an interesting turn of phrase from Stormbringer. Too bad it's OOC knowledge.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;261452' It's been heard that one of the scouts the Duke sent out to investigate returned a broken man, spending most of his time sobbing or gibbering.

Nothing else of interest seems to be occurring around town, I assume you are supplied and equipped how you want? No other purchases to make?'

Well...That's an interesting turn of phrase from Stormbringer. Too bad it's OOC knowledge.

Yeah, I figure it saves time from having Kargan tell everyone later.  ;)

So, game or rules questions in here, scene related OOC in italics over in IC, if you want, and I will send secret information by PM, so keep your boxes free-ish.

Ok, looks like everyone is happy with their stuff, no one wants to get anything else, so tomorrow we will jump ahead to the Lord Steward and the meeting.

Er, do we start with magic items? Seems like we do, but OSRIC didn't seem to have them.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;261665Er, do we start with magic items? Seems like we do, but OSRIC didn't seem to have them.

Yeah, the 5000xp was for buying those.  I thought I sent you a list.  Let me go back and double check.
EDIT: Looks like I didn't.  I will correct that tonight.

Ok, thanks.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;261674Ok, thanks.

Here's what I came up with:

Bracers of Defence, AC4
Ring of Feather Falling
Dagger +2, +3 vs creatures larger than man sized
Potion of Healing (x2)
Potion of Climbing

Ok, thanks.

But...How does a dagger make sense to a wizard? No wands of Magic Missile?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;261765Ok, thanks.

But...How does a dagger make sense to a wizard? No wands of Magic Missile?

1st edition only allowed three (four?) weapons for a Magic User.  Dart, Dagger, Staff.  Maybe one other.  Unearthed Arcana added more, and I will probably be using those off and on, too.

StormBringer, been meaning to ask about one of the items I picked for Dagan-Zur, the Candle of Invocation. I'll quote the relevant section.
"...If burned by a cleric of the same alignment, the candle temporarily increases the cleric's level of experience by 2, allowing him or her to cast additional spells, and even normally unavailable spells, as if he or she were of the higher level, but only so long as the taper is aflame."
How does this work? To access these levels would I need to light the candle when I pray for spells then carry it about lit. Or could I say light the candle after a combat in order to access say a Remove Curse spell which not something I could normally cast.

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;261844StormBringer, been meaning to ask about one of the items I picked for Dagan-Zur, the Candle of Invocation. I'll quote the relevant section.
"...If burned by a cleric of the same alignment, the candle temporarily increases the cleric's level of experience by 2, allowing him or her to cast additional spells, and even normally unavailable spells, as if he or she were of the higher level, but only so long as the taper is aflame."
How does this work? To access these levels would I need to light the candle when I pray for spells then carry it about lit. Or could I say light the candle after a combat in order to access say a Remove Curse spell which not something I could normally cast.

I will need to double check that tonight, but as I recall, you would use the candle rather like a charged magic item.  Light it, do your schtick, put it out or whatever.  Incenses are burned as part of your meditations/morning prayers, and you get max effects on your spells for the day.

I forgot to follow up with you on the previous bit about the magic items you bought in the original recruitment thread.  Did you want to re-arrange some things, or how did you want to sort those out?

Quote from: StormBringer;261847I forgot to follow up with you on the previous bit about the magic items you bought in the original recruitment thread.  Did you want to re-arrange some things, or how did you want to sort those out?

I may have missed a post it seems. Did I screw up in buying stuff? If so let me know where I went wrong and I'll sort it out.

The candle has to be burning in order for the cleric to benefit from the 2 level increase.  The candle last for a total of four (4) hours.

The crux of the matter is that the candle has to be burning in order for the cleric to receive the benefits.

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;261859I may have missed a post it seems. Did I screw up in buying stuff? If so let me know where I went wrong and I'll sort it out.

I figured you probably didn't see it, so no biggie.

I had the 5000xp to buy magic items to simulate your previous adventures, and the 10,000gp was for rounding out the equipment list, maybe getting something biggish, like a wagon and horses or just a horse or two, or hirelings/NPCs.  Both were to emulate the stuff you would have collected in 5 levels of adventuring, since we didn't start from 1st level.

My bad, I dumped quite a bit of info into the couple of guideline posts.  So, the poisons are fine, but we will have to re-arrange the magic items.

Quote from: StormBringer;261885I figured you probably didn't see it, so no biggie.

I had the 5000xp to buy magic items to simulate your previous adventures, and the 10,000gp was for rounding out the equipment list, maybe getting something biggish, like a wagon and horses or just a horse or two, or hirelings/NPCs.  Both were to emulate the stuff you would have collected in 5 levels of adventuring, since we didn't start from 1st level.

My bad, I dumped quite a bit of info into the couple of guideline posts.  So, the poisons are fine, but we will have to re-arrange the magic items.

Oops sorry about that, OK I changed it on my main sheet kept the gear purchased with the 5000xp. How is this for the 10,000 gp, bought a few more poisons, but tried not to go too crazy. Don't really see him as having henchman, being the paranoid type and all. Let me know if the ring is OK, kinda thing you see in movies.

10,000 gp in gear
Ring with secret compartment for Ingestive Poison (200 gp)
Insinutive Poisons: Poison Type D (1,500 gp), Poison Type D (1,500 gp), Poison Type C (600 gp), Poison Type C (600 gp), Poison Type C (600 gp)
Ingestive Poison: Poison Type D (500 gp), Poison Type D (500 gp)
4000 gp in gems (payment for a recent job he hasn't gotten around to spending it yet also good for bribes and such)

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;261953Oops sorry about that, OK I changed it on my main sheet kept the gear purchased with the 5000xp. How is this for the 10,000 gp, bought a few more poisons, but tried not to go too crazy. Don't really see him as having henchman, being the paranoid type and all. Let me know if the ring is OK, kinda thing you see in movies.

10,000 gp in gear
Ring with secret compartment for Ingestive Poison (200 gp)
Insinutive Poisons: Poison Type D (1,500 gp), Poison Type D (1,500 gp), Poison Type C (600 gp), Poison Type C (600 gp), Poison Type C (600 gp)
Ingestive Poison: Poison Type D (500 gp), Poison Type D (500 gp)
4000 gp in gems (payment for a recent job he hasn't gotten around to spending it yet also good for bribes and such)

Ok, that looks good.  I assume those are single doses, or are they multiple doses?

Quote from: StormBringer;262003Ok, that looks good.  I assume those are single doses, or are they multiple doses?

Not sure what the book says, but like you, I was assuming single doses so I'm good with that.

Now that I think about it, who all listed horses and whatnot on their equipment list?

I listed two riding horses, and all the necessary gear and food for them.

Naren will buy a horse and a mule - How much?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;263479Naren will buy a horse and a mule - How much?

Riding horse, 100gp
Light War, 275 gp
Mule, 75gp

I'll get a pony. No horses for me, i'm afraid.

Quote from: One Horse Town;263556I'll get a pony. No horses for me, i'm afraid.

Pony, 125gp

Riding horse - He's no warrior.

Since we are all getting horses, Kagan-Zur get one a light war, along feed and track and harness and such before retiring for the evening

Hmm, yes, good idea - About how much is a week's feed going to cost and weigh and how far can I load down the mule?

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;263868Since we are all getting horses, Kagan-Zur get one a light war, along feed and track and harness and such before retiring for the evening

A week's feed, tack and harness will be 250gp in addition to the 275gp for the horse.

The horse's name is Pinky.  :D

Just kidding.

425 for riding horse, mule and feed, tack and harness, then.

He's spent 435 of 10,000gp?

A horse by the name of Placid. A mule by the name of Fload.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;263904425 for riding horse, mule and feed, tack and harness, then.

He's spent 435 of 10,000gp?

A horse by the name of Placid. A mule by the name of Fload.

In addition to the other expenses you may or may not have incurred.  Spellbooks, in your case, or supplies.  Like the 5,000xp, it was there to emulate past monies to gear up however you want.  If you want to find somewhere to stash the other 9,500gp, go for it.  Otherwise, it is assumed you have a thousand gold or so available, the rest of it would be a vague cloud of 'resources'.

I probably didn't explain that very well at the start.

Right - Would there happen to be a Wand of Magic Missile or somesuch that I could buy?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;263909Right - Would there happen to be a Wand of Magic Missile or somesuch that I could buy?

Not in this town.  The 5,000xp was for loading up on magic.  Most wands are 3,000xp or more, so you would have been pretty weak on defence.

My post will be somewhat late, as I am now going to sleep.

Hey, I was playing around with some image links in the latest post there.  I stole that idea from the Encounter Critical play over there.

Anyone have an opinion?  I was thinking of scaling some down and maybe putting them inline or something, but if someone has a slow connection or computer, that would be frustrating.

Inline, links, no opinion?

Well, the last one got a 'Not Found'. Other than that, they're ok. SCA doesn't really look real, but it does the job.

The links are fine, when they are working.  Although I think your description works just as well. I am up for whatever you want to do....your wearing the viking hat.

* Snatches the viking hat and eats it.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;265257* Snatches the viking hat and eats it.

You get indigestion.  Save vs DM at -8 or die.  Permanently.  ;)

Sorry - as a cartoon character, I have Immunity to Permanent Death. :D (1d20=10 - 8 = 2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1806710/)
*Gurgle, gasp, choke, flop*

* Rises as Lich.

I had an issue with two of the links yesterday.  I rather like the idea of the links being embedded into the text.  I can read the text first, or at least the couple of sentences pertaining to the link, and then click on the picture.  I think it is better this way because then I'm not distracted from reading and comprehension, and then I can check out the picture at my leisure.

I kind of figured links would be better, but I may insert a map section or two if I can, when necessary.

Of course, maps will be necessary at some point.  Do you have a map of the Duchy and borderlands available?

Quote from: Drohem;265300Of course, maps will be necessary at some point.  Do you have a map of the Duchy and borderlands available?

Nah, it's pretty background stuff for the moment, but I have one in my head, if the party comes back through this way.

hehehe...you know what?  I forgot that this was actually Castle Amber. ;)

Great stuff so far, I am completely immersed. :D

Quote from: Drohem;265306hehehe...you know what?  I forgot that this was actually Castle Amber. ;)

Great stuff so far, I am completely immersed. :D

Thanks.  :)

I'm like the images, though as others said your descriptions work just fine too. That said they might be times that the old adage about a picture telling a thousand words might hold true.

Quote from: GrayPumpkin;265584I'm like the images, though as others said your descriptions work just fine too. That said they might be times that the old adage about a picture telling a thousand words might hold true.

Thanks!

I don't want to overload the posts with images, so I will try to keep it light for now.  If anyone feels they need a bit more, though, I will see what I can do to find an image to put up.

I was just wondering if it matter where everyone's position was?  I know Grey-Pumpkin's half-orc is at the front, and I consider myself about 3rd from the front.  Just thinking a head for encounters?

It doesn't matter to me.  Besides, I think that we're about to dive into the Castle Amber module proper, so I don't think that it's going to be all that important.  

However, who knows?  Maybe Stormbringer will throw some stuff at us before our insertion into the Castle Amber module.

That was the only reason I was checking, in case he wanted to throw us off a moment.  No biggie.

Quote from: Drohem;266036It doesn't matter to me.  Besides, I think that we're about to dive into the Castle Amber module proper, so I don't think that it's going to be all that important.  

However, who knows?  Maybe Stormbringer will throw some stuff at us before our insertion into the Castle Amber module.

One can never tell, can one?
:cool:

...Naren is located wherever any attack won't land.

So Naren is still back at the tavern...;)

...How's he supposed to be where the spells are cast if he's getting drunk?

I will reply later tonight, to much going on right now.

I signed up for the Invisible Castle Dice roll, and I thought registered correctly, but for some reason it will only let me post single dice rolls.  I am hoping this is only a 24 hour sign up thing, and I will be able to post the other dice rolls better next time.

Hey guys.....sorry if I made a wrong move, but I wanted to get some action moving.  PM me if there is an issue.  

Venosha

Initiative will be (d10-Reaction Adjustment) until this gets unwieldy, which it shouldn't with the online dice roller.
 Example:
 18 Dex, +3 Reaction Adjustment, long sword (weapon speed 5)
Initiative Example (1d10-3=-2) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1823362/)
 1d10-3 → [1,-3] = (-2)
 Negative numbers means an attack prior to the round.  If you get multiple attacks, the next attack will be (Weapon Speed) segments later. So, in this example, the long sword attack would come before everyone else attacks, then again on segment 3.
Bows and  thrown daggers go on their initiative, then 2 segments later.  Darts go on their initiative, then the next two consecutive segments.  Other missile weapons are single rate of fire, so they go once on their initiative.

No Dex modifier; 10 stat. What's the reaction adjustment on throwing a molotov cocktail...But before that, how harsh are you on spreading fire?

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;268998No Dex modifier; 10 stat. What's the reaction adjustment on throwing a molotov cocktail...But before that, how harsh are you on spreading fire?

Well, you are in the middle of a dense forest with rather thick underbrush.

I hope you give some kind of warning....my character is quite a distance from the group in the brush.

18 Dex, +3 reaction adjustment, attacking with sling stone (RoF 1).
(1d10-3=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1823418/)
1d10-3 → [6,-3] = (3)

Quote from: StormBringer;269001Well, you are in the middle of a dense forest with rather thick underbrush.

How dry/wet it is has a lot more effect. Also, twisting paper into a tight roll and lighting it on fire tends to produce a rather unexpected result - Namely, the fire goes out.

Fire, like all chemical reactions, has a threshold.

Quote from: DeadUematsu;26900518 Dex, +3 reaction adjustment, attacking with sling stone (RoF 1).
(1d10-3=3) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1823418/)
1d10-3 → [6,-3] = (3)

Attacks and stuff can be posted in IC.

I am assuming that we should wait until everyone has rolled initiative before posting our actions, right?

Quote from: Drohem;269122I am assuming that we should wait until everyone has rolled initiative before posting our actions, right?

Yeah, I was going to give it until this afternoon-ish, MST, then go ahead with the lineup so far.

Still don't know what sort of reaction bonus a molotov cocktail has.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;269191Still don't know what sort of reaction bonus a molotov cocktail has.

Standard Dex adjustment, fire rate of 1, so you will be able to throw it on your standard initiative.

Ok, thanks.

Initiative roll: (1d20=6) (http://invisiblecastle.com/roller/view/1824277/)

I have been toying around with Epic Words (http://www.epicwords.com/campaigns/76) a bit, let me know what you think.  If anyone wants to, sign up and enter your character, then let me know so I can add you to the campaign I have set up.

Quote from: StormBringer;269798I have been toying around with Epic Words (http://www.epicwords.com/campaigns/76) a bit, let me know what you think.  If anyone wants to, sign up and enter your character, then let me know so I can add you to the campaign I have set up.

hehe...I came across this site while surfing and thought it was a cool idea.  It looks like they've done some re-tooling since I last visited.  The appearance is different, it used to be all brown.  

I'm down with it.

Looks very nice.  I like the effort you are putting into all of this.

Thanks!

Tomorrow is, of course, a holiday for the American posters here, so I will probably check once or twice in the morning and tidy up any activity, but after around noon-ish MST, I will not be available.  Likely the next time I will check will be sometime Friday morning.  If the tryptophan has worn off by that point.  :)

The game has been great so far; everyone's contributions have been fantastic!  After the holiday big things are on the horizon, so gird yourselves, conjure up your most cunning plans, and prepare for the harrowing dangers ahead!

Happy Thanksgiving to all who are celebrating!

Ok, I have the current adventures copied over to Epic Words (http://www.epicwords.com/entries/268) in the journal.  I am a bit irritated that they are sorted most recent first, but there is probably a setting I am missing.  For the rest of the story, click on the Campaign Journal tab, and it will display all of them.  You will need to read from the bottom up, however.  :mad:

Drop me a PM to get access to the campaign over there, Drohem is already in!

Venosha,

I, the player Drohem, am totally cool with it if you want Semina to scout ahead. :)

The character Thraim is a little mystified in-game because they just decided on a plan of action a few minutes ago in-game, and now it's falling apart in his eyes.

I am totally cool if Heathcliffe and Semina do the scouting instead of Thraim and Kagan-Zur.  Let's just roll with it the way it is now, and try to keep the momentum going for this game! :)

Drohem,
   
   Sorry if I seemed offensive in IC.  I knew what the original plan was, but I figured my character screwed it up when she took off on her horse.  I guess I got confused for a moment.  I have posted in IC to let everyone catch up and maybe we can make a new course?  

Venosha

Ok, I think the end of year wrap-ups and beginning of year planning should be settled by now.  We should be able to pick up the pace again, so we will be going back to one post a day, as a minimum.

I have been letting things go sand-box for a while, and I am not averse to giving time for whatever interactions everyone wants to carry out, but if there seems to be a lull in the action, I will step in and move things along.  Later today, I will be updating IC with the events of the day.

Ok, I think the end of year wrap-ups and beginning of year planning should be settled by now.  We should be able to pick up the pace again, so we will be going back to one post a day, as a minimum.

I have been letting things go sand-box for a while, and I am not averse to giving time for whatever interactions everyone wants to carry out, but if there seems to be a lull in the action, I will step in and move things along.  Later today, I will be updating IC with the events of the day.

Of course, this will be waived in the event of technical difficulties.

My Dad *jacked my PSU last night for his computer, since his is dying. We're going to buy me a new one today. I shall now demonstrate my absolute fearlessness by saying, as long as nothing goes wrong I'll be able to post today.

* Exaggeration for humour.

Sorry, I probably mis-read Stormy's post.  I thought that we were currently on the highest ground around, and that the storm was almost directly upon us.  

If we still have time, and there is higher ground available, then Thraim would want to get to it as well.

You are correct, he did say that we were the highest ground, but now his description in the tree line has more detail.  Let me know what you think is the best option as well as everyone else's opinion.  Majority rules

I'm totally down for checking out a better spot to weather out the storm. :)

[del]Naren will follow the party on this.[/del]

I've been informed that 'Naren thinks that a trade road such as this should have contingencies for bad weather. Caravans must have been caught on the far side of the swamp at least a few times when it was flooded, so likely set up some kind of area in the forest ahead of the party to weather a storm or wait for the marsh to drain.'

It's good to know that. :D

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;279921[del]Naren will follow the party on this.[/del]

I've been informed that 'Naren thinks that a trade road such as this should have contingencies for bad weather. Caravans must have been caught on the far side of the swamp at least a few times when it was flooded, so likely set up some kind of area in the forest ahead of the party to weather a storm or wait for the marsh to drain.'

It's good to know that. :D

I was rather hoping you might relay that to the party in character.  I could have posted it here myself, if that was my intention.

Sorry, but I'm not good at that - It would have sounded like a quote anyway.

Add to that I've had a rather stressful day and I found text-dumping far funnier than it should have been...*Shrug*

Anyone know where in this pile my character sheet might be? I couldn't find it in the thread. Had a HD crash.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;288894Anyone know where in this pile my character sheet might be? I couldn't find it in the thread. Had a HD crash.

All the character sheets should be in the recruiting thread

Thanks.

hehehe... well, I was trying to be considerate of my fellow players. :)  Thraim has had the spotlight on him for the boxing match, so I wanted to give another character a chance to shine and interact with the NPCs.

Drohem : Although I would love to ask our NPC Jean-Louis question, I get the feeling the others would like to move along in the adventure.  I am just not sure where they would like to go or what they would like to do.  So I am letting them take the lead for a while, unless they would like to express their desires on what's next.  I understand you want to give others a chance to do something, as would I.  

I am more then willing to ask Jean-Louis what ever information we need to seek, but I am not sure of what everyone would like to ask him, or if they want to skip that part and wander the rest of the castle?

No particular direction has hooked my character yet.

Don't forget to update your character sheets with your xp!

Okay...I took it upon myself to try to stop the NPC Jean-Louis to see if there was any other info we made need before we start scouting out the territory.  I will ask him the usual questions, like why are we here? How do we get out? What lies ahead....etc, etc.  I know others would like to search rooms and continue on, but I wondered if there were any other questions I should ask before we miss the chance?  PM me if you have any suggestions, unless you would like to join my character in the questioning.

"How do we get out?"

I am just throwing ideas on the table...nothing has been said that is why I asked for opinions.  If you don't like what I have to say, please feel free to jump in and offer up suggestions.  I just threw the "get out question" as an example is all.

Uh...That's what I was suggesting, because that's what my character would ask.

Exploring is all well and good, but we need to know how to get out again. :)

Sorry about that.  I wasn't sure....that will be asked then.  :)

Apology accepted. :)

I'm confident that you'll ask all the necessary and standard questions.  The one question that Thraim has is- why were we kidnapped and brought here?

hehehe... Thraim's a cool little Fonzie... a cold fusion little Fonzie! ;)

However, it's probably a wise to assume that if Jean-Louis is encountered again that someone is going to get a bloody lip. :)

Heya, taking over Snorri I guess. Where is the recruitment thread so that I can see his sheet? Oh, and btw, dwarves rule... just lettin everyone know

Quote from: Sigmund;297545Heya, taking over Snorri I guess. Where is the recruitment thread so that I can see his sheet? Oh, and btw, dwarves rule... just lettin everyone know

Sorry about that, it fell off the first page a while back

Recruiting (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=11719)

Quote from: StormBringer;297546Sorry about that, it fell off the first page a while back

Recruiting (http://www.therpgsite.com/showthread.php?t=11719)

Thanks, taking time to read what's been posted so far before beginning posting myself.

Quote from: Sigmund;297545Heya, taking over Snorri I guess. Where is the recruitment thread so that I can see his sheet? Oh, and btw, dwarves rule... just lettin everyone know

Right on! :D

Playing Snorri, should behave as if I have been with the party all along, or act as if I just showed up on the doorstep?

Quote from: Sigmund;297767Playing Snorri, should behave as if I have been with the party all along, or act as if I just showed up on the doorstep?

The other characters have been there the whole time, just zombied.  I was probably going to give them standard attacks when the time came, which is what I will likely have to do anyway with the rest of them.

So, you have been with them the whole trip.

I call that 'Quantum Indeterminate State'. Heard it somewhere. Basically, everyone knows you're with the party; however, no-one is sure where you were exactly or what you were doing, precisely.

I will probably need help getting used to the dice roller, still don't feel like I've gotten the hang of how it works, and probably doesn't help I use the Google Chrome browser.

Quick reminder for everyone, I still have that page over at Epic Words (http://www.epicwords.com/campaigns/76).  Admittedly, I have been way behind in keeping it current, but if you want to sign up, let me know so I can send an invite and add you to the campaign logs.

Sigmund:  Here is a quick rundown of how Invisible Castle works:

Instructions (http://www.epicwords.com/wikis/463)

So are we done with this, or just on hiatus?

Quote from: Sigmund;300977So are we done with this, or just on hiatus?

Sorry, everyone, got a bit busy at work and home for a few days.  I will update tonight, promise.

I hope this game will continue.  I have vested to much time to give up now.  So I am still here, and hope all the others still want to go on?

I'm still here! :)

Still here. Still having a hard time getting into my character's head, but having enough fun to justify posting. :)

Naren is not much fun to play as is. The fun I've been having is largely in spite of my original vision of the character.

As this is game, it recently struck me that thus playing Naren as-is does not make sense.

Naren will be changed somewhat, as suited to provide amusement to me, while still working with the party and being recognizable.

What kind of changes do you have in mind?

Not quite sure - I play characters by 'ear'.

Hey Stormy,

Can we divorce ourselves from the mass of faceless PCs behind Thraim, Semina, Snorri, and Naren and continue on with the just the four of us? :)

I am finding it hard to be immersed knowing that there are like 4-6 other characters along with ours, but that they don't contribute anything at all to the story or events.

Maybe you could kill them off one-by-one with traps, surprise attacks, etc.  Or they could decide to split off on their own and investigate for an exit from Château Amber. ;)

Quote from: Drohem;307310Hey Stormy,

Can we divorce ourselves from the mass of faceless PCs behind Thraim, Semina, Snorri, and Naren and continue on with the just the four of us? :)

I am finding it hard to be immersed knowing that there are like 4-6 other characters along with ours, but that they don't contribute anything at all to the story or events.

Maybe you could kill them off one-by-one with traps, surprise attacks, etc.  Or they could decide to split off on their own and investigate for an exit from Château Amber. ;)

Yeah, for all intents and purposes, I haven't been really considering them as part of the group anyway.  Had a couple of nibbles for some additional players, but I haven't really been thinking they were around anyway.  Some transporter accident or something on the way over to Castle Amber.  :)

If someone decides to join up later, they can use one of the pseudo-NPCs if they don't want to roll up one from scratch.

hehehe...ah, the tried and true 'Transporter accident' method.:)  That's cool, so it won't be a big shock to our PCs if someone shows up in another part of the mansion and grounds.

Quote from: Drohem;307325hehehe...ah, the tried and true 'Transporter accident' method.:)  That's cool, so it won't be a big shock to our PCs if someone shows up in another part of the mansion and grounds.

Going warp speed between the dimensions makes transport difficult.  ;)

Hey guys...just wanted to ralley up the group and see what direction we want to head once Naren has memorized his spell and Semina's sight is back in order.  Now that we are back in the foyer, where do we go from here?  Still looking for the Prince or finding a way out.  I am trying not to post in IC for OCC questions.

Well, Thraim wants to find an exit from the mansion, or someone to throttle for it.  Either way, we need to back in and explore some more.  I've played this module before, and we've barely gotten into the "good stuff."  LOL

Don't worry Stormy, my lips are sealed!

Yes, all the good stuff lies ahead.  

:evillaugh:

I'm good to go if you're still looking to insert Lightwalker, :)

Quote from: Kord's Boon;310611I'm good to go if you're still looking to insert Lightwalker, :)

Excellent, I will add you in today.

So, if I want to join the game, I have to choose one of the available characters among: (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=309501&postcount=113)

Halfling Druid
Half-Elven Magic-User
Elven Thief
Elven Ranger/Magic User
Half-Orc Cleric/Assassin
Human Fighter

Correct?
Or may I create my own character?

Quote from: Benoist;310637So, if I want to join the game, I have to choose one of the available characters among: (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=309501&postcount=113)

Halfling Druid
Half-Elven Magic-User
Elven Thief
Elven Ranger/Magic User
Half-Orc Cleric/Assassin
Human Fighter

Correct?
Or may I create my own character?

You can create your own, but these are the characters that started out from the beginning.  It would be a bit easier to integrate them back in, but I won't automatically shut down a new character if none of those suit.

Quote from: StormBringer;310638You can create your own, but these are the characters that started out from the beginning.  It would be a bit easier to integrate them back in, but I won't automatically shut down a new character if none of those suit.

Alright. I can modify the psychology/non-mechanical aspects of the pregen if I want to?
What does the group need? Seems like a Cleric at the moment. That'd point towards the Half Orc Cleric/Assassin.

Quote from: Benoist;310659Alright. I can modify the psychology/non-mechanical aspects of the pregen if I want to?
What does the group need? Seems like a Cleric at the moment. That'd point towards the Half Orc Cleric/Assassin.

Yeah, go ahead and change the character to your liking.  Looks like Kord's Boon has the Human Cleric, but if you are so inclined, you are more than welcome to run the Assassin/Cleric.

Oh. I didn't notice Kord's Boon's character! My bad.
Well, the HO Cleric/Assassin would be a nice back-up for both Thief and Cleric.

Quote from: Benoist;310670Oh. I didn't notice Kord's Boon's character! My bad.
Well, the HO Cleric/Assassin would be a nice back-up for both Thief and Cleric.

Precisely so.  I will introduce both of you later tonight, if you are ready to start.

Sure. I'll fit as we play. :)

I modified Kagan's original name to a more tribal 'Kaga Ma Zûl', but we're going to keep Kagan and/or Kagen as his nicknames, so as to not disrupt the whole thing. :)

Sweet.  You could also go with 'Kagan Ma Zûl' or 'Kaga Na Zûl' to keep the nickname.

What's funny is that my iconic dwarf character's name is Kagan Altar. It's what caught my eye about the character at first.

Sigmund, the use bold for speech is a Drohem standard, but it seems to have caught on. :)

Personally, I can't stand colored text in PbP games, so I only use bold for speaking and italic for thoughts.  It just seems cleaner and easier to read for me personally.  

Although, I am definitely not trying to enforce this style on anyone.

Quote from: Narf the Mouse;310931(Given that I still don't have a current update on my spells - The original list having lost some vital information - And given that I've never gotten a reply on the questions I've asked about it - I'm dropping)

Your list of spells is in the original recruitment thread: Selected Spells (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=258878&postcount=88).

This is the information about your character that you should be keeping track of.  Additionally, I mentioned earlier in the IC thread at post 710 (http://www.therpgsite.com/showpost.php?p=309978&postcount=710) that you can drop your memorized spell fireball and memorize dispel magic after a full night's rest.

I will be happy to offer advice, provide options, or clarify rules if asked, but details about your character are your responsibility.

I'm comfortable with moving on to morning.

Two things:

Which deity was Sander worshiping?

Does he have his background in a convenient form anywhere? I don't mind reading the IC thread backlog or just winging it if need be, but it would be nice to have.

Quote from: Kord's Boon;311155I'm comfortable with moving on to morning.

Two things:

Which deity was Sander worshiping?

Does he have his background in a convenient form anywhere? I don't mind reading the IC thread backlog or just winging it if need be, but it would be nice to have.

I think winging it would be OK.  He used to worship some evil deity, but switched to good, so it's the redemption theme.  If you want to pick a current deity for him, I am fine with a generic evil pantheon for his past.

Well since Narf announced his intentions, lets move on and get back on track.

I winged it personally. I made up a personality, chose a deity, and roll with that, regardless of what came before with that character. I'm playing on the fact that all the teleportations, displacements etc could have had an effect on the characters and their memories.

Yup, let's get Semina healed and back in the action!

ok nm, now I'm just confused

We crossed the great hall and discovered the small wing with three doors on the right.  We opened the first door to discover a green goo on the floor and a black slime on the roof.  We tried to kill them with burning oil, but were unsuccessful.  We decided not to be lured into the room by the stone chest and closed the door.  

We opened the second door to discover it was a servants' quarters that had been infested by spider webbing.  We fought several spiders from the doorway with ranged weapons.  While we fighting the spiders, a bright flash appeared in the hallway and blinded Semina.  After we finished off the spiders in the room, we retreated to the foyer to remove Semina's blindness.

We never explored the third door on the right in that small wing.

We entered the small wing and opened door #1 with the green goo starting on page 49 of the IC thread.

How about exploring room #3 now?

Sounds good to me. :)

Sounds good to me as well, Sander follows as would be appropriate.

So who's the lucky tough guy to open it? I can stand behind him, if you want me to. :D

I know PbP are hard sometimes to keep up with, but is everyone still playing?

I'm here. What do you guys want to do now?

(Benoist) : I am game for whatever you guys want to do.  I was just hoping to see a few more post on our next move.  I say we ransack the castle...and take it's treasure!

I'm still here. :)

Okay guys. Gotta go on a road trip for the next two days. If something happens, assume Kagan heals whoever needs healing, and if nobody's hurt but combat breaks out, he tries to backstab a target.

I'll be back shortly!

Be safe!  And/or bon voyage!

I made it safely back home! :)

Quote from: Benoist;323213I made it safely back home! :)

Welcome back!  I don't know the French equivalent.  :)

Richard Coeur de Lion, heh? :)

Did you know I was born in Normandy?

Quote from: Benoist;329621Richard Coeur de Lion, heh? :)

Did you know I was born in Normandy?

Well, I knew you were of French ancestry, and spoke it with some degree of fluency.  The module has the Anglo translations for all the names and such, but the French versions add a bit of the exotic to set the mood properly.

The module itself has some basis on the Averoigne stories by Clark Ashton Smith, which I have not had the opportunity to read, but the francophile influence is apparent:
The Beast of Averoigne (http://www.eldritchdark.com/writings/short-stories/11/the-beast-of-averoigne)

I knew about CAS' Averoigne correlation, and want to read the stories, in part to determine whether it reflects some elements about medieval France that ring true to my imagination, and thus whether I could use it as a full-fledged D&D setting or not.

I haven't had a chance to do so, yet. A pity, really. But I will. :)

*shrug*

I don't like cats. :D

Quote from: Benoist;329637I knew about CAS' Averoigne correlation, and want to read the stories, in part to determine whether it reflects some elements about medieval France that ring true to my imagination, and thus whether I could use it as a full-fledged D&D setting or not.

I haven't had a chance to do so, yet. A pity, really. But I will. :)

Follow the link, it has a number of the short stories.  I think CAS was going for more of a pseudo-historical France, just enough to have a good backdrop for his tales of horror.  :)

Is that okay if we talk strategy like we would around the table, here?

If so, what do you guys think about the current situation? I'm all for complying personally. The NPC does have a point: I think these guys might be lethal, especially the archers.
Do we have the fire power to fight them back, and if we do, what would be the consequences, with Richard in particular?

What do you think?

I'm up for negotiating, or whatever the majority wants.  I think others are ready for battle but either way I am game for any situation.  

Now on a side note...what if we involved the female ogre, Janet?  Maybe she can vouch for the cat creatures, or advise us if we are walking into a trap?

That's an idea. Are you proposing to pick her up on the way to the study?

We could do that.  Maybe more information will be spilled if brother and sister are together.

I am cool with talking or fighting, either way is fine with me.  :)

*whistles low*

This is a pickle, isn't it? :)

Thraim isn't going to take his aim off the catman leader, nor move- if any of them makes a move, it's on!

Now, about the ogress... Thraim is positive that she has no influence on these catmen.  It's obvious that they know about Jeanette's 'condition.'  So, involving her in this situation may be beneficial if she still remembers some of her magic.  However, Thraim doesn't really want to be responsible for getting her killed if things go down badly.  So, he's kind of divided on bringing her in, but given the current tense situation he can't really discuss it without anyone.  So if Semina is going to go and Jeanette, Thraim isn't going to oppose it.

Quote from: Drohem;331197*whistles low*

This is a pickle, isn't it? :)

Thraim isn't going to take his aim off the catman leader, nor move- if any of them makes a move, it's on!

Now, about the ogress... Thraim is positive that she has no influence on these catmen.  It's obvious that they know about Jeanette's 'condition.'  So, involving her in this situation may be beneficial if she still remembers some of her magic.  However, Thraim doesn't really want to be responsible for getting her killed if things go down badly.  So, he's kind of divided on bringing her in, but given the current tense situation he can't really discuss it without anyone.  So if Semina is going to go and Jeanette, Thraim isn't going to oppose it.

You've got a point about her getting killed because of us.
I didn't think about that.

This could be devastating for us later on.
:hmm:

I'm split on the issue, now. See, bringing Jeanette provides us with a valuable companion (provided she doesn't go coo-coo and turns on us, of course) and tactical support if things go South. Plus, she might blurt out bits of information under the right circumstances, like in the presence of Richard or the catmen bozos, say. We don't know.

But yeah. It does present a lot of risks if she dies at some point.

Quote from: Drohem;331197*whistles low*

This is a pickle, isn't it? :)

Thraim isn't going to take his aim off the catman leader, nor move- if any of them makes a move, it's on!

Now, about the ogress... Thraim is positive that she has no influence on these catmen.  It's obvious that they know about Jeanette's 'condition.'  So, involving her in this situation may be beneficial if she still remembers some of her magic.  However, Thraim doesn't really want to be responsible for getting her killed if things go down badly.  So, he's kind of divided on bringing her in, but given the current tense situation he can't really discuss it without anyone.  So if Semina is going to go and Jeanette, Thraim isn't going to oppose it.

I am torn as well.  Obvious they know her condition, but I feel that they wouldn't attack because she is Richards sister, so some loyalty should be there.  Then again, I may be looking to deeply into this.  I don't want her harmed as well, and I thought about her magic too....hmmm...anyone else want to jump in?

On the other hand, if we don't do anything, then we've got much lesser chances of getting the castle's Factions to move, one way or another, and spill the beans, which would make us understand what the Hell is going on, here.

See, when I'm stuck in a dungeon, and I know I haven't pulled the lever before because it might be a trap, in the end, I'm going to pull the lever anyway, because that will get things moving. This is the kind of conundrum we're facing here, IMO.

I say we take the Ogress with us, provided she doesn't resist.
What's your opinion?

I'm cool either way, bring her into it or leave her be.   There's no way in hell that Thraim is going to go into the catman's room with them.  He'll make his stand in the hallway, facing down archers, if he has to because he's certain that entering that room will be walking into our own funeral.

Ok....well I wanted to see if Sigmund had any thoughts on the idea.  I won't be around for a bit...so I will update later tonight.

Hey guys...something personal has come up and I will need a few days away from the game.  Please fill free to move on without me, or give me other ideas as to what you would like me to do.  I will probably be posting by Friday, or the weekend.  Looks like our crazy ogre isn't going to be of help after all.

Good vibes and warm thoughts coming your way. :)   I hope that things return to normal for you ASAP.

Quote from: Drohem;333620Good vibes and warm thoughts coming your way. :)   I hope that things return to normal for you ASAP.

Same thing here! Take care, and keep us posted! :)

Update:  So the gist of it is my mother is very ill, and I need to be the rock for my children.  I will try to jump in when I can to play, but she is my main concern right now.  I don't want the group to wait for me to respond, although I won't be completely out of the game either.

Drohem: Since we play in other games, I wanted to address you in one forum so you knew what was up.  I will respond to all games when I can, but I didn't want to repeat the message so many times. Don't worry...I am not buggin out, just scarce is all.

Quote from: Venosha;334697Update:  So the gist of it is my mother is very ill, and I need to be the rock for my children.  I will try to jump in when I can to play, but she is my main concern right now.  I don't want the group to wait for me to respond, although I won't be completely out of the game either.

Drohem: Since we play in other games, I wanted to address you in one forum so you knew what was up.  I will respond to all games when I can, but I didn't want to repeat the message so many times. Don't worry...I am not buggin out, just scarce is all.

I completely understand.  Thank you for keeping us up to speed. :)

Quote from: Venosha;334697Update:  So the gist of it is my mother is very ill, and I need to be the rock for my children.  I will try to jump in when I can to play, but she is my main concern right now.  I don't want the group to wait for me to respond, although I won't be completely out of the game either.

I'm Gwyddion in the other game. I too completely understand. Stay strong, take care of the family, and we're going to catch you around when you can make it. Your mother will be in my prayers.

Any suggestions as to what our next move should be?  Considering we don't want Janet harmed, and the cat-men took off and locked us out?  Run or fight?

Quote from: Venosha;335588Any suggestions as to what our next move should be?  Considering we don't want Janet harmed, and the cat-men took off and locked us out?  Run or fight?

Yeah, Thraim really doesn't want to hurt her.  We should try to run if possible and get away.  If not, and we have to fight her, then I suggest that we do subdual damage to leave her alive.

DM, could you describe the room's feature for us again?
Are there tapestries, is there a bed with covers on it, drapes, anything of that sort?
What's the furniture like?

QuotePaintings adorn the walls, portraits of the family, apparently; the largest hangs above the mantle, facing the bed itself. It is a young woman wearing a blue dress seated next to a small table, hands folded in her lap clutching a silver key. There is a large four poster bed in the middle of the room with all the curtains drawn. A fireplace burns low on the north wall, while the room itself is ordained in shades of blue with silver trim.

No tapestries in here, just the portraits.  The four poster bed is now sans one post and starting to sag, but it has some sheer curtains on the remaining frame, and the bed itself has standard bedclothes.

Alright. Here's what I think we could do: I cast Hold Person to try and stop her. If that succeeds, it lasts 2 rounds/level. We leave her in the room and try to block its exit somehow. As contingency plan, while I'm casting the spell, somebody gets a hold of a curtain, blanket, whatever we can throw on her, and we try to knock her unconscious (unless someone else has a way to take her out without inflicting any harm).

Anybody has any other suggestion? :hmm:

Well I am closest to you..and it might take a round for Thraim to reach us.  So I would be your best option to knock her out with out too much pain inflicted. If your spell worked then Thraim and Snorri could help tie her up???

Otherwise I vote for running.

Quote from: Benoist;335634Alright. Here's what I think we could do: I cast Hold Person to try and stop her. If that succeeds, it lasts 2 rounds/level. We leave her in the room and try to block its exit somehow. As contingency plan, while I'm casting the spell, somebody gets a hold of a curtain, blanket, whatever we can throw on her, and we try to knock her unconscious (unless someone else has a way to take her out without inflicting any harm).

Anybody has any other suggestion? :hmm:

I like your plan and using that spell, but the next question for me is what are we going to do with her if we need to go this route?  Leave her bound and just move on to somewhere else in the house?  It's fairly obvious that the cat-men have no respect for her, so her brother probably doesn't as well.  

I think that immobilizing her with the spell is good idea, but rather than taking the time to bind her I think you should cast the spell and then we should just skedaddle and get the heck out of her sight and thoughts.

Did we come to an agreement?  If you want to cast the spell, then I will yell something to distract her and head in Thraim's direction...unless I am binding her?

To bind her, we need her to be incapacitated first. Let me cast the spell, and you distract her.
You post first, since you have initiative, Venosha.

I understand it is my move. I'm really not trying not to hold things up, but since we are discussing the plan in OOC, we will have to queue each other in IC somehow.  Let me think about how Semina will react so that everyone is aware of the plan.  I'm headed home from work, and will try to update tonight or this weekend.  Thanks for your patience guys.

Welcome back Sigmund!  Sorry to hear about the string of BS that you've been going through, but it sounds like you're at the tail end, no?

So who is Jeanette fixed on?

I am in the room but opposite of her.  Snorri entered the room and was headed for Jeanette, and last I knew was Kagan was casting his spell at the doorway.  Thraim is still outside of the room looking in.  Is that correct?

Well, I was waiting for some direction by ol' Stormy.  :)  
It looks like we're in for a fight with Jeanette (:(), and that combat rounds were about to start ticking off.

Semina is delaying her action, Kagan cast a spell, so Thraim and Snorri have yet to act.

Jeanette was heading towards the door, but now that Semina has opened herself as a target, the ogress is changing direction and heading towards Semina, albeit somewhat more slowly.

Soo... what do we do know? She's slowed.
Do we just close the door and hope for the best or...?

You can try closing the door, but you have three people in there trying to engage the ogre.

Her momentum is continuing in my direction, so I will have to try to bring her down the best I can.  Give me a bit to figure out what I need to do.  If I can knock her down, we could tie her up loosely and maybe close the door.

hehehe... I feel ya, Venosha.  I rolled a '3' for my first attack.  Wiffle ball anyone?  LOL

Hey guys....so due to health issues and family issues, I need to break away from gaming for a while.  Clear my head, and get some of these issues resolved and under control.

I don't want my character to completely disappear, but I was wondering if it would be okay to request the game to go on hiatus for a bit, since there are others right now that are not able to frequent to board due to their personal issues as well?

Let me know what you think?  I would love to pick up again in the near future, and want to play with the group we have established or maybe more.  I will keep in touch and update as things progress.

I think we can call a time-out for a little while, if the others are amenable.  I will start up another recruitment drive and see if we can get a few more players for the other characters in the down time.

Hey, I'm back. I was thinking of telling you I didn't have as much time as I'd like these days. With the need to find some kind of work and possible go back to school I'm a little loaded down and stressed. If ya take a break though, check with me when ya get back and if I can I'll return to Snorri :)

It looks like a good time to put it on hiatus.  It seems like Benoist is going through a rough spot as well.  I'm cool with it too.  Besides, it just wouldn't be the same without you guys.  :)