Pathfinder Interest Check: Crimson Throne

[kckolbe]

I'm considering GMing a Pathfinder game for a small group (3-5 players).  The adventure would be the Crimson Throne adventure path from paizo, which I have never run but have read through a couple of times.  There are a couple of things you should know about me as a potential GM. 

1) I'm not a particularly great GM. I am still working on describing scenes with more detail and just generally lacking when it comes to the "fluff" that really sets the mood.

2) I am not particularly in tune with Golarion (the Pathfinder world).

If still interested, I am looking for a small group of players to run an adventure path with, starting at 2nd level. I know 1st is recommended, but I encourage non-standard groups and character concepts and don't like seeing tedious, inspect every room type of quests, so there's a free head start.

I am thinking of the group working for a "service-based" organization in a major city (Korvosa, most likely), that also dabbles in mercenary work.

25 point buy, anything paizo for rules.

I would want all of the characters to have at least one skill point invested in some kind of service-oriented skill, like perform or profession, which would be a form of cover.

I'd like to stay away from any concepts (including races) that might scare off potential customers. Exotic is fine, just not unnecessarily intimidating or unsettling. A half-orc guard, for example, would need a fair bit of diplomacy to make people feel comfortable.

For alignment, I'd like an overall neutral group. I should point out that the city of Korvosa has an extremely lawful bent.

Let me know if you have any questions. 

[Jaded]

Potentially interested, though I'll have to think of a character concept that includes a profession.

[Black Howling]

Potentially interested as well. I have a concept, and one that includes both a profession and performance bent. >_> What can I say, mine generally lean toward that style as it's good background material anyhow.

I'll see if I can work something up.

One question, by neutral do you mean true neutral or are all of the 'neutral' alignments okay?

[Pumpkin Seeds]

Interested as well if time allows.

[Chulanowa]

Always interested!

[indarkestknight]

Shoot. I'm not sure I have a character concept off-hand that would fit a service-based occupation.

Hm. Would Knowledge skills qualify, perhaps, for a character that is a tutor?

I'm starting to coalesce something, so I'll go ahead and ask - feelings on synthesist summoners? Feelings on, say, LE PCs? Or at least LN PCs that have no issues with devils?

... Well, first I'd better download the Crimson Throne Player's guide to get a better idea of what would and wouldn't fit, shouldn't I.

[Thorne]

Interested.

Not sure what I would play, precisely, but definitely interested.

[kckolbe]

Glad to see all of the interest so far!

To answer some questions:

Appraise, Craft, Perform, Knowledge, Profession, Handle Animal, Heal, and Linguistics all have commercial value as skills.  Hell, spellcasting by itself has value.  Prostitution requires little training or a certain class.  I *hate* saying this, but I am going to be completely arbitrary when it comes to judging whether or not the character is "commercially viable."  Basically, I want a group of characters that make sense as part of one company, and I want to see some effort toward making the character fun as opposed to powerful.

Korvosa is LN, with the lawful being the most important.  I'd like to see some variance in alignment, but no zealots or overly chaotic types as neither really fit.

As for classes, I'm not crazy about summoners, but I don't feel like saying no to them.  If you can be patient with an inexperienced GM lacking a bit of natural talent, I can at least not be a dick about published, playtested rules.

[Teo Torriatte]

I'm interested if there is still room.

[Muse]

As am I. 

So, we're all trying to be part of the same buisness ?

Perhaps we're performers of some sort?  Even run a theater? 

[VonDoom]

I ... was just going to mention the same, a Swashbuckler is something I've been wanting to try for awhile. A witty speaker, banter and charm and fast swordplay make for a fine presentation anywhere!

[VonDoom]

Aye, could be siblings, even, if they're a suitable racial combo. Though that would probably make it more difficult in regards to approval if they were set up like that in advance.

I was thinking of trying that rapier specialist archetype.

[kckolbe]

All the characters will be part of the same business, yes.  The nature of the business depends on char submissions.

Standard 2 for traits, no drawbacks.  For HP, just take half+1 at all levels.

No issues with blind.  I've had you in games before, Blinkin, and already knew that about you.

I like the idea of two swashbucklers.  Good for flavor and not recommended for group dynamics, so sounds perfect to me!

[kckolbe]

Not familiar with that trait, but as long as both fit Korvosa, they don't need to be campaign-specific.

[Thorne]

Hrm. This might be a good place to test the Urban Druid I've had nibbling around the corners of my brain.
Pest control, animal trainer, or so. >.>

... actually, animal trainer might work well with a theatre setup, if that's what is being aimed for.

[kckolbe]

It doesn't have to be performance-based at all.  A professional animal trainer could be of use without that.  Druids are rare in the city, but a druid that was comfortable in a crowded city and that could train exotic pets would be able to make money.

[MiraMirror]

I kind of want to make a character with a pre-established link to someone else's...Blurgh.

[kckolbe]

Definitely possible.  Char concepts should be appearing here over the next couple of days.  Feel free to toss out connection ideas.

[Black Howling]

With the rush of interest I think I'll politely withdraw. I'm not as likely to be able to meaningfully participate as these others, especially considering the other projects I'm head deep in working on.

Best of luck everyone!

[Thorne]

Train them - and calm them without harming them, if something nasty gets loose. A good trainer has a lot of flex that way. And sidejobs abound, in cities - rat problems? What rat problems? >.>

She gets hazard pay for quieting rampaging lions, right? ;p

[VonDoom]

Wasn't there an 'adopted' racial trait or some-such that let you take one from another race?

[Andi]

Interested. Need to think of a concept - have we interested parties settled on the theater company as angle for cover?

[MiraMirror]

Blinkin, pick up the Heirloom Weapon trait with Exotic Weapon: Bladed Scarf.

That can give you proficiency with it.

[Ixy]

Are we going to go with the concept of the group being professional performers?  I rather like the idea of being a show-company-- a vaudeville type revue-- with a theater as their base, and acting as mercenaries or adventurers behind the scenes (literally).

I could imagine almost any class behind the scenes, and for a front being either: a) fortune teller, b) dancer, c) animal tamer, d) carpenter, and any combination of the above.  Working on it.

[MiraMirror]

I asked about that before, Blinkin, and the common explanation is that it's a 5' weapon, still deals the damage upon being grappled, does 1d6 damage, and is exotic. It has the disarm/trip features, I believe, and does 1d6 slashing damage. It's also a two-handed weapon.  I was going to use one, and I came across the same stuff.

It's up to the DM, but what I've typed is the more common, "up-to-date" version.

[MiraMirror]

For thematic purposes, you could invest in Dex, get Weapon Finesse and Agile Maneuvers, and work with the idea that what she lacks in raw power, she makes up for with unpredictability and finesse.  Hell, you could use that idea with a Dervish Dancer (bard archetype) and it'd be really neat. Her whole battle routine is a dance. =P

[Chulanowa]

Are we going to go with the concept of the group being professional performers?  I rather like the idea of being a show-company-- a vaudeville type revue-- with a theater as their base, and acting as mercenaries or adventurers behind the scenes (literally).

I could imagine almost any class behind the scenes, and for a front being either: a) fortune teller, b) dancer, c) animal tamer, d) carpenter, and any combination of the above.  Working on it.

If i understand the player's guide correctly, the characters come together as sort of a vigilante group to take out a right old bastard who has wronged them all in some way.

The idea of a performing troupe lends itself well to the Varisian people (gypsies, basically) in the setting.

Me, though, I've about had my fill of rogues, swashbucklers, and bards  ;D I'm looking for an idea that can take a thumpin'. Or possibly heal a thumpin'.

For thematic purposes, you could invest in Dex, get Weapon Finesse and Agile Maneuvers, and work with the idea that what she lacks in raw power, she makes up for with unpredictability and finesse.  Hell, you could use that idea with a Dervish Dancer (bard archetype) and it'd be really neat. Her whole battle routine is a dance. =P

weapon Finesse is actually redundant with Agile Maneuvers; any combat maneuver you perform with a finessable weapon gets your dex bonus (i.e., disarming with a rapier, but not tripping with a halberd or bull-rushing with your face); Agile maneuvers is for monks who have made poor life choices.

[MiraMirror]

Chula: Weapon Finesse also lets you use Dex for your attack bonus. Agile maneuvers applies specifically to CMB checks, I believe.

Also, Thorne and I seem to be playing Red Oni, Blue Oni. =P

[Chulanowa]

But weapon finesse allows you to replace strength for your combat maneuver bonus' calculations, for relevant maneuvers with relevant weapons.

Behold, i bring you FAQ!  XD

[MiraMirror]

Ah, true enough. The only things you'd use for that would be...yeah, disarm/sunder/trip.  Still, Weapon Finesse would be neat with your bladed scarf, potentially using Vital Strike and the like...though if you went Dervish Dancer, you might not get that much use out of it later, since you'd get a pseudo-pounce.

[Ixy]

If i understand the player's guide correctly, the characters come together as sort of a vigilante group to take out a right old bastard who has wronged them all in some way.

The idea of a performing troupe lends itself well to the Varisian people (gypsies, basically) in the setting.

Me, though, I've about had my fill of rogues, swashbucklers, and bards  ;D I'm looking for an idea that can take a thumpin'. Or possibly heal a thumpin'.

Alright alright then, I'm thinking perhaps a Tiefling witch or sorceress, if you want to crank out a beast or tank or somesuch.  Apparently the rest of the party will be anime characters or something?  I don't know. 

I kid!  I kid!  Please don't hit me!

I'd be pretty happy making a barbarian as well, if they weren't so hyper-focused on rage rage rage all the time.  I rather like the idea of a multiclass witch/barbarian, actually, but most games don't last long enough to really explore leveling-up and such.

[Thorne]

*snicker* Druid.
If there's any resemblance to an anime character, it's inadvertent. ^.~

She'll have some healing ability, but her major use in a scuffle is probably her furry and feathered friends (Fluttershy with a spine? >.> )

[MiraMirror]

Meanwhile, she is the help...The large, feather/horned/clawed help who is not at all adverse to clawing someone to death. .w.

[Chulanowa]

Alright alright then, I'm thinking perhaps a Tiefling witch or sorceress, if you want to crank out a beast or tank or somesuch.  Apparently the rest of the party will be anime characters or something?  I don't know. 

I kid!  I kid!  Please don't hit me!

I'd be pretty happy making a barbarian as well, if they weren't so hyper-focused on rage rage rage all the time.  I rather like the idea of a multiclass witch/barbarian, actually, but most games don't last long enough to really explore leveling-up and such.

I was looking at a fighter or barbarian, myself.

If you want the "Barbaric witch" vibe, then a Shaman might do the work.

[MiraMirror]

Or a Scarred Witch Doctor, but from what I've heard, most DMs seem to ban them?

[kckolbe]

Dammit, my reply got eaten.

Bladed Scarf is fine, just take Exotic Weapon Prof and you can use the class you wanted, subbing scarf for rapier.  The scarf does 1d6 in melee, 1d4 when grappled. 

The characters are actually hired to take out an old bastard, slight modification.

Tieflings are viewed with suspicion, as are sorcerors and witches.  That said, an exotic woman with high charisma could be very popular if she played her cards right, especially with a high charisma.

Not familiar with Scarred Witch Doctor.  Is it a paizo class?

Don't worry about group roles being filled, by the way, as that won't factor in to my decision for characters.

[MiraMirror]

Scarred Witch Doctor

It's some kind of Orc racial for the Witch.

[kckolbe]

Yeah, I don't see that one fitting the setting.  Sorry.

[MiraMirror]

No need to apologize. ._.

[Jaded]

I am thinking an Alchemist with Perform, a Stage Magician type. 

[Rhaegar14]

So I was looking at this thread debating whether I want to declare interest (I won't, too many players already), and I skimmed through a couple of the character concepts. Blinkin and VonDoom, if kckolbe is willing to use homebrew (and do the small changes to convert from 3.5 D&D to Pathfinder), this prestige class might be perfect for your concept: The Synchronized Swordsman by BRC

[MiraMirror]

I was rather hoping to find a Prestige Class that focused more on the Druid's wildshape capabilities...Alas, I could find no such thing. All the PrCs focus on bloody casting. >:/

[Rajah]

Koan Twice-Cursed

There are any number of cruel fates in Golarion, and certainly to be half-Shoanti is not the worst of these - but when one's father is a literally soulless Hellknight of the Order of the Nail charged with subjecting one's matrilineage to total holocaust, well, that's what a man calls influential context. Koan's not sure how to feel about dear old Dad; the man's been possessed - again, a literal thing - as long as he can remember, and it's never been clear which of his attitudes and atrocities are free-willed and which are forced. Probably never will be.

Koan was raised by his mother, an exile of the Skull Clan who plays fortune-teller and ghost-whisperer to Korvosans looking for exotic answers to their mundane problems, and has lived with the troupe all his life, as cutpurse and apprentice mystic and, on occasion, troubleshooter when townfolk or Korvosan's legal enforcers pose a threat to the safety of the people of the tents. He's studied medicine and sleight of hand, the worlds beyond the horizon and how to read a person enough to convince them they're in contact, the arts of seeing and of being unseen - and a few more things aside, lessons taught through a different side of his mother altogether, with true mysticism in place of sarcasm and careful, halting tutelage instead of the free-spirited mixture of advice and practical example she uses for all else. Old Ways, she calls these special lessons. The killing arts.

He was 13 when he learned he had siblings, two half-sisters (of pure blood, of course) older and younger respectively, each said to walk his father's path and each said to seek him and Lady Tiirune (his mother, of course) for ominous and never-quite-explained-by-rumor purposes (of course). He was 16 when he took the walker's path from Korvosa into the Cinderlands and the edge of the Mobhad Leigh beyond, there to suffer an invocation the Skull Clan calls the wraith dance. A year later he returned tattooed and quiet-voiced, having given up some of his soul's brightness for an awakening he could only be prepared for by his definitive parent, rather than gifted or initiated into.

It's half a decade since then, and he still serves the troupe and by extension Korvosa - and now that chaos descends, he is all too keenly aware that the city-state's unprepared queen will need help of the most desperate kind...including from the Order of the Nail, who have been expanding their ranks and their reach in reaction to the riots and general disorder, offering welcomed aid in restoring peace...at cost. Terrible costs, in some cases. Spurred by the heightening of racial tensions between the Varisians and the "barbarian" Shoanti who live within Korvosa, the danger to the troupe as banditry spikes and the roads grow monster-haunted, and ill tidings of certain propositions made from the Order to the beleaguered city-state's nobles, Koan is as ready as ever he'll be - the time to act is now. Peace must return to Korvosa.

Race: Human
Class: Stalker (Dreamscarred Press, which is almost Paizo!)
Traits: Criminal, Scholar of the Beyond

[kckolbe]

I am only going to use paizo products. 

Rajah: Stalker doesn't seem overpowered at a glance, but I don't know what to expect from it either.  Your concept is an interesting one, though.  I hope you are able to express it using paizo classes.

Jaded: Looking forward to seeing a little more.  Don't feel locked in to the performance angle.  There are plenty of ways for an alchemist to make money, after all.

[VonDoom]

Looks like where the Slayer is Ranger/Rogue, this is Ranger/Ninja? Interesting.

And Shrroth, have you looked through all the archetypes? Those are generally more developed than prestige classes. Also, since all Pathfinder is okay, check d20pfsrd for stuff from campaign and regional books, maybe?

[Rajah]

I am only going to use paizo products. 

Rajah: Stalker doesn't seem overpowered at a glance, but I don't know what to expect from it either.  Your concept is an interesting one, though.  I hope you are able to express it using paizo classes.

Not so much. :\ Since DSP is in charge of all the fun subsystems for Pathfinder (psionics, disciplines, soulmelds, and truenaming so far - won't be surprised to see them do vestiges next) it's pretty much impossible to do the same thing with official classes; Paizo won't compete with Dreamscarred Press, which means their stuff is gonna be as official as it ever gets.

[kckolbe]

Sorry Rajah.  Best of luck with something else.

[Jaded]

So far my thoughts are:

Iriel Goldwind, at least that is the name she uses among humans, is a one hundred and twenty six year old elf.  She rarely speaks of her past, of the violent storm that shattered the ship her family was travelling on, or the years she spent crafting poisons and other lethal concoctions for an assassin’s guild after she washed up on shore.  She took up dancing as an escape, and as a way to make a living without dealing death.  While she still does make a side living with her alchemical skill, she tries to avoid creating or selling anything that could be used in a lethal fashion except for her own use. 

Korvosa was a place for Iriel to escape, to make a new start.  She fled her employers, hopped a ship, and travelled as far as she could on what money she had managed to scrounge.  It was in Korvosa that her money ran out.  She found a job as a stage dancer, using her alchemical abilities to improve her performances, and occasional mercenary. 

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

I am thinking she general uses sleight of hand to drink her extracts, combining disguise self, blurred movement, maybe chameleon, etc with her dance.  It may be a silly idea and I'm not sure how to describe it, but it amuses me. 

In combat probably a focus on ranged.  Are firearms allowed?

Does the idea seem to fit?  Or should I try to come up with something else?

[VonDoom]

Outflank is a great one.

[Chulanowa]

I... will come up with something later today! It's looking like either a thumper (Barbarian / Fighter / Paladin) or a Healer-type (Cleric, maybe Shaman?) - point is i have a few ideasm but not a lot of brainpower at the moment!

[kckolbe]

Jaded, your char has very sad eyes.  She looks like an ad for human trafficking.

[Mossberg]

I'm interested in this if there is still room. So far I am thinking of a Ninja, just not sure about skills or background at this point. also, a heads up, I am new to Pathfinder and still learning it, so patience and forgiveness for any mistakes would be appreciated.

[Thorne]

Some of this is a bit rough, history is still being hashed out a bit.

Daru Calanthe

Female half-elf druid (urban druid) 2 (Pathfinder RPG Advanced Player's Guide 101)
LN Medium humanoid (elf, human)

Crunch

Init +1; Senses low-light vision; Perception +10
--------------------
Defense
--------------------
AC 13, touch 11, flat-footed 12 (+2 armor, +1 Dex)
hp 15 (2d8+2)
Fort +4, Ref +1, Will +6; +2 vs. enchantments, +1 trait bonus vs. disease
Immune sleep
--------------------
Offense
--------------------
Speed 30 ft. (20 ft. in armor)
Melee dagger +2 (1d4+1/19-20) or
. . quarterstaff +2 (1d6+1) or
. . touch attack +2 (As Spell)
Ranged ranged touch attack +2 (As Spell) or
. . sling +2 (1d4+1)
Domain Spell-Like Abilities (CL 2nd; concentration +5)
. . 6/day: calming touch (1d6+2)
Druid (Urban Druid) Spells Prepared (CL 2nd; concentration +5)
. . 1st: alarm[D], calm animals (DC 14), liberating command[UC], longstrider
. . 0 (at will): create water, detect magic, know direction, purify food and drink

(DC 13)
. . D Domain spell; Domain Community (Home domain subdomain)
--------------------
Statistics
--------------------
Str 12, Dex 13, Con 12, Int 14, Wis 16, Cha

15
Base Atk +1; CMB +2; CMD 13
Feats Skill Focus (Handle Animal), Vermin Heart[APG]
Traits heart of two worlds, varisian immunity
Skills Acrobatics -2 (-6 to jump), Climb +2, Craft (leather) +6, Diplomacy +4 (+6 involving creatures that belong to same race/ethnicity as your parents), Handle Animal +10, Heal +9 (+12 to treat common animals, but +1 to treat other creatures), Knowledge (geography) +6, Knowledge (local) +9, Knowledge (nature) +8, Perception +10, Sense Motive +3 (+5 involving creatures that belong to same race/ethnicity as your parents), Spellcraft +7, Survival +5, Swim +2; Racial Modifiers +2 Perception
Languages Common, Druidic, Elven, Sylvan, Varisian
SQ elf blood, lorekeeper, nature bond (Home domain), nature sense, wild empathy +4
Combat Gear healer's kit; Other Gear leather armor, dagger, quarterstaff, ranged touch attack, sling, touch attack, backpack, belt pouch, blanket,
flint and steel, holly and mistletoe, mess kit, mirror, pot, soap, spell component pouch, torch (10), trail rations (5), twine (50'), veterinarian's kit, waterskin,
whetstone, 39 gp, 2 sp, 2 cp
--------------------
Special Abilities
--------------------
Calming Touch (1d6+2 nonlethal damage, 6/day) (Sp) Heal 1d6+2 nonlethal damage and cure conditions by touch.
Druid (Urban Druid) Domain (Home)
Elf Blood Half-elves count as both elves and humans for any effect related to race.
Elven Immunities - Sleep You are immune to magic sleep effects.
Heart of Two Worlds +2 trait bonus on Diplomacy & Sense Motive against parental races.
Low-Light Vision See twice as far as a human in low light, distinguishing color and detail.
Varisian Immunity +1 save vs disease. Immune to Vorel's phage & blood veil.
Vermin Heart Wild Empathy & spells that target animals may be used on Vermin.
Wild Empathy +4 (Ex) Improve the attitude of an animal, as if using Diplomacy.
--------------------

Daru is the quiet one. At least, that's what she says. She's certainly not flamboyant.  At rest, she's easily overlooked; her hair is dark red, worn in dreadlocks and left to flow loose about her shoulders, concealing her slightly pointed ears. Her eyes are a light, green-gold, set in a warm peaches-and-cream complexion, her features delicate, with a hint of stubbornness. Certainly attractive enough, but pale easily next to brighter plumage.
When she's working Daru is anything but quiet, unless it's what's called for, and even then she owns a room, whether she's calming a restive horse with soft words or redirecting a raging lion to a more appropriate target.
She prefers simple clothing, dark colours that don't show mud, dirt or blood, cut to allow for movement.

Not an only child, Daru's sister is also a druid, albeit she and Daru are nothing alike. Daru grew up in the city, learned her trade observing the pocket ecosystems
amongst the city streets.
Daru doesn't see much of her father Isindiir; cities don't appeal to him, so she doesn't know him well. She knows her mother Rosalba better - Rosalba taught her
herblore and healing, to go with the druidic lore Daru has learned from her father, and more often from Dandric, the old horselord.
Daru's father turns up now and again, leaving gifts and the occasional complement for the woman he calls his Silver Rose and his more civilised daughter.

As an adult, she's not only observing and caring for that ecosystem, but earning a living as a trainer - not yet amongst the best, but with the talent to get there, if
something doesn't put a hoof through her skull first. Her ability to speak to her charges doesn't hurt at all. Very few of her clients are aware that she's a half-elf -
those who ask about her eyes are given a faint smile and a one-word explanation; "Druid."

[Mossberg]

I wouldn't know.. Haven't read the Crimson Throne stuff. I could switch it up I suppose. Maybe go with my first idea of a Magus, but then I have to redo everything I've done so far. Which really isn't that much.

Edit: Scratch that. Think I'll go with a Bard, which shouldn't require too much changing. Plus, music would be a viable addition to the performing group, I think.

[Ixy]

Hi guys... I don't know why exactly, but I hit a bit of a wall on this one for a while.  Based on the setting, I think a rogue would be complementary to the group and story.  At least, I hope so :)  For some reason, I kept getting hung up on the idea of a necromancer, so if this doesn't work out i can make something in that direction.

 

Khaith Surkov

Born among the outlaws and misfits in Kaeir Maga, Khaith was raised by the remnants of a nomadic group of exiles that had migrated to the city after they were decimated by vengeful warlord of Urglin.  She thrived among brothers, sisters, and cousins, excelling in physical contests and games, learning the family trades of traditional dance, blade combat, and theft.  Drummed out when her uncle started- and lost- a bitter clan conflict, she and many of her young relatives moved deep into "civilized" Varisia where they made a home in Korvosa.  Many of the children took work in taverns and inns, but some found it impossible to stick to 'honest work'... Khaith, of course, at the forefront of dishonest capitalism.

By the time she was a teenager, she had become a nuisance of the public, and had endured some stern punishments for a young woman her age-- spent nights in the stockades protected only by her rabble cousins, been publicly switched on multiple occasions by parishioners for stealing from the church, and had her hand broken by a zealous guard for a pickpocketing she didn't even commit.  When she was fourteen, things changed-- she was suspected of being involved in a conspiracy to rob a merchant's house, but the caper had gone badly and the merchant had been struck dead by a blow to the skull.  Her oldest cousin was to be executed, a scapegoat for the murder and theft, and Khaith was sentenced to a long term of imprisonment. 

A retired Army captain, however, stood in for Khaith, and as she was not yet a full adult, was able to negotiate that as she was not directly involved in the crime, she should be remanded to his custody until she turned seventeen.  Khaith bucked at the notion, and fought back misreably for an entire year, but the captain and his wife, who had raised armies and children alike, would never bend to her.  Finally, she learned to trust them, and even love them like her own family.

Now a woman herself, she still lives with them and helps care for her own cousins by keeping bar at a tavern in town.  Though not the honed rogue she once was, she remembers enough, and has kept herself in excellent physical condition.  Unable to join the army, she still feels that there is some purpose for her yet undiscovered and that, somehow, there will be a need for battle.  She is considering seeking mercenary work with an honorable company, or seeking some kind of apprenticeship as an agent to the crown, but she feels utterly stuck where she is, as if no path she has found yet is the right one.

[kckolbe]

These are the chars I've seen so far that are being considered.  If your char isn't listed here, it is either because I haven't seen enough or I missed it.

Blinkin - Whip-Wielding Swashbuckler
Jaded - Alchemist
Thorne - Druid, Animal Trainer
ThatOneShrroth - Feral Druid
Ixy - Rogue

[Chulanowa]

I'm still undecided. I'm rolling competing ideas of a paladin, cleric, and fighter around in my head. Anyone have input? I'm good with any of these - and weirdly, all three want to be gnomes.

[Mossberg]

I'm still undecided. I'm rolling competing ideas of a paladin, cleric, and fighter around in my head. Anyone have input? I'm good with any of these - and weirdly, all three want to be gnomes.

Well, I'm working on a Bard. A head basher or a healer would probably be good for the group. Honestly, both could be useful, unless we are going to carry a good bit of potions and whatnot.

[VonDoom]

Still working on my Swashbuckler. Well, trying to decide on a concept, mostly. I usually do character first, mechanics later, but for D&D I tend do go Mechanics>Inspiration Picture>Character. I'm at the second part right now because none of the ones in my collection really hit me for this so far.

[kckolbe]

I'm still undecided. I'm rolling competing ideas of a paladin, cleric, and fighter around in my head. Anyone have input? I'm good with any of these - and weirdly, all three want to be gnomes.

That's a rather odd gnome.  Warpriest, maybe?  They are similar to paladins in the divine fighter area, but may be a shade more to your liking. 

Well, I'm working on a Bard. A head basher or a healer would probably be good for the group. Honestly, both could be useful, unless we are going to carry a good bit of potions and whatnot.

Again, this kind of mindset isn't what I'm looking for.

[kckolbe]

"In combat probably a focus on ranged.  Are firearms allowed?

Does the idea seem to fit?  Or should I try to come up with something else?"

I am so sorry for not answering these earlier.

Firearms are allowed.  The idea makes sense, though not sure how she'd feel about the first job, which is an overt killing of a person, albeit a pretty horrible one.

[MiraMirror]

Evera would be pretty chill with it, if not outright excited. It's a hunt for her. =P

(By the way, she'll be carrying a spear and potentially a shortspear/club.)

[Mossberg]

1/2+1 HP per level. That include 1st? I usually see full at 1st and 1/2+1 after. Just need to clarifiy

I think you missed a question, KC.

Again, this kind of mindset isn't what I'm looking for.

Also, my bad. Just thinking about survivability.

[kckolbe]

Yeah, I answered that one in PM then forgot people here might wanna know.  1/2 HP+1 for all levels.

[VonDoom]

For 1st, too? Unusual choice, but ... yours to make, I suppose. Poor (elven) casters.

[kckolbe]

It's not really the handicap you think it is.  The adventure begins for lvl 1 chars, and you'll all be lvl 2, so you'll be fine.  The first "mission" is a cakewalk anyways.

[kckolbe]

I've built mage tanks before though and had a lot of fun doing it.  I remember playing a dwarf cleric who didn't like healing, so he would just put shield other on folks and soak half the damage himself, while also fighting on the edges.  Good times.

I'm not confident the group will have a tanky type, which is fine.  The melee types so far seem more agile, hard to hit types.  I can promise that the group will not have the mage, tank, skill, healer combo.  You guys are going to have weaknesses that you will have to work around.

[Chulanowa]

Ramzenny Tarblottle

Class: Paladin
Race: Gnome
Deity(s): Shelyn and Arshea
Alignment: Lawful Good
Campaign Trait: Addicted Friend (+2 to Knowledge: Local)
Character Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=1074171

Stat block

Ramzenny Tarblottle
Gnome Paladin
LG Small humanoid (Gnome)
Init +1 Senses Darkvision; Perception -1

Defense

AC 18, touch 12, flat-footed 17 (+1 dex, +4 Armor, +1 shield, +1 size)
hp 16 (2d8+4)
Fort +8, Ref +4, Will +5
Defensive Abilities Bond to the Land (Urban), Illusion Resistance. Divine Drace

Bond to the Land

Some gnomes have strong ties to specific kinds of terrain, as a holdover from their fey origins. These gnomes gain a +2 dodge bonus to AC when in a specific terrain type selected from the ranger list of favored terrains. This choice is made at character creation, and cannot be changed. This racial trait replaces defensive training and hatred.

Illusion Resistance

Gnomes gain a +2 racial saving throw bonus against illusion spells and effects.

Divine grace

At 2nd level, a paladin gains a bonus equal to her Charisma bonus (if any) on all Saving Throws.

Offense

Speed 20 ft.
Melee Greatsword +6 (1d10 19-20/x2) or
   Morningstar +6 (1d6 x2) or
   Lance (1d10 x3)
Ranged Composite Longbow +4 (1d6+3/x3)
Special attacks Smite Evil 1/day

Smite Evil

Once per day, a paladin can call out to the powers of good to aid her in her struggle against evil. As a swift action, the paladin chooses one target within sight to smite. If this target is evil, the paladin adds her Cha bonus (if any) to her attack rolls and adds her paladin level to all damage rolls made against the target of her smite. If the target of smite evil is an outsider with the evil subtype, an evil-aligned dragon, or an undead creature, the bonus to damage on the first successful attack increases to 2 points of damage per level the paladin possesses. Regardless of the target, smite evil attacks automatically bypass any DR the creature might possess.

In addition, while smite evil is in effect, the paladin gains a deflection bonus equal to her Charisma modifier (if any) to her AC against attacks made by the target of the smite. If the paladin targets a creature that is not evil, the smite is wasted with no effect.

The smite evil effect remains until the target of the smite is dead or the next time the paladin rests and regains her uses of this ability. At 4th level, and at every three levels thereafter, the paladin may smite evil one additional time per day, as indicated on Table: Paladin, to a maximum of seven times per day at 19th level.

Spell-Like Abilities (CL 2; concentration +5)
   1/day - ghost sound (DC 15)
   1/day - dancing lights
   1/day - prestidigitation
   1/day - speak with animals
   At will - detect evil

Statistics

Str 16, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 9, Cha 16
Base Atk +2; CMB +4; CMD 15
Feats (1) Power Attack
Skills diplomacy +7, handle animal +7,knowledge (religion) +6, perform (strings) +4, ride +5, sense motive +3
Languages Common, Gnome, Sylvan, Celestial
SQ Aura of Good, lay on hands

Aura of Good

The power of a paladin's aura of good (see the detect good spell) is equal to her paladin level.

Lay on Hands

Beginning at 2nd level, a paladin can heal wounds (her own or those of others) by touch. Each day she can use this ability a number of times equal to 1/2 her paladin level plus her Charisma modifier. With one use of this ability, a paladin can heal 1d6 hit points of damage for every two paladin levels she possesses. Using this ability is a standard action, unless the paladin targets herself, in which case it is a swift action. Despite the name of this ability, a paladin only needs one free hand to use this ability.

Alternatively, a paladin can use this healing power to deal damage to undead creatures, dealing 1d6 points of damage for every two levels the paladin possesses. Using lay on hands in this way requires a successful melee touch attack and doesn't provoke an attack of opportunity. Undead do not receive a saving throw against this damage.

Traits Addicted Friend, Self-sacrifice

Background

   Ramzenny was born in Magnimar, into a family of gnomish woodturners; specifically, they made instruments, the more inventive and intricate the better. The second-youngest of four siblings, two of them much older she grew very protective of her little brother, Dellorim. It was he that brought Ramzenny onto her current path. It began simple enough; young Dellorim was very curious, as young gnomes are, in particular about gods and faiths. The family as a whole revered Shelyn above others, but his curiosity led him further, into the Empyreal cults of Magnimar. The Tarblottle family didn't shun him for his wandering faith, of course, but as he grew more and more involved, he separated himself further and further. And then one day he simply didn't return. The rest of the family didn't take it too badly; gnomes explore and wander, after all!

   It was a dark night indeed when the attack came. Ramzenny's father was away, leaving her mother, one older brother, and herself to take care of the shop. A team of ruffians thought that perhaps a trio of gnomish woodwrights would be an easy job; maybe they were right. What Ramzenny remembers is waking to the crash of the shop's windows being smashed in, and the crunches and twangs as the thugs trashed the place in search of hidden gold or gems.

   Against her mother's hissed demands, the gnomish girl slipped out of their hidden room to see what was afoot. Seeing the hard work her family had done smashed, the fine inlays and scrimshaws smashed to splinters, the instruments of music forever ruined, made something change in Ramzenny. Snatching up a towel of turned maple, she set upon the brigands, tripping and clobbering them. Bewildered by the sudden assault, the four fled the way they had come, and Ramzenny, suddenly inspired, made to pursue.

   But rather than find the footpads' hideout, her path took her to the finely-tooled coral steps of the temple of Shelyn. Her dowel in one hand, the broken neck of a viola in the other, she found herself weeping for her family's misfortunes - a lost brother, a smashed shop, her terrified mother, and now the blood of thieves on her hands.

   A large, but comforting hand fell on her shoulder; Mistress Nadya Belluel, the Varisian matron of the temple. The two talked long into the remainder of the night, and when Ramzenny returned home in the middle of the morning, she was squired to the Rose Knight Illyava Vaenries, and began training as a new Paladin.

   After her short apprenticeship, Ramzenny felt a calling in her heart - she needed to find her brother, Dellorim. Bidding her parents goodbye, she besought Nadya to tell her what she could of the younger gnome's activities. At first the priestess was reluctant, but seeing the need in the gnomish woman's eyes, she directed Ramzenny to the small group of cultists to the Empyreal lord Arshea that her brother had been associating with.

   Indeed, Ramzenny learned of her brother's path, during her time with the Arshean cult; she learned more than that, though, and found much to love between the devotees of this Angel, and her own faith of Shelyn; a shared reverence for beauty, love, and freedom, especially, albeit in more immediate and... personal ways than Shelyn's faith.

   Her brother had taken a ship to Korvosa, intent on bringing the faith of Arshea to the oppressed workers there. With a worried heart, Ramzenny followed, only to find the worst; her brother lay dying in hospice, the victim of a drug of dreams termed "shiver." Though her healing could make his body hale, they could not bring his mind back.

   Now, Ramzenny centers herself around the Sanctuary of Shelyn, in North Point. She makes her way as a performer, putting the talents she learned from her musician parents on show. Her quiet questions and easy demeanor have brought a name to her, the name of the man who put her brother into the state she found him in; Gaedrick Lamm

   In Brief: Ramzenny is a Paladin of Shelyn who is, of late, finding her faith in the Goddess becoming entwined with that of the empyreal Lord, Arshea. Though both share many of the same virtues, there are enough differences for Ramzenny to have... doubts about the syncretism. Especially on the issue of Shelyn's ethos on courtly love, versus Arshea's more... immediate view on the subject.
   Currently, she is operating under the "cover" of being a performer - though she wouldn't lie about who and what she is, no one has thought to ask much of the little gnome strumming a lute  for her supper in the Posh and Turtle. Truth is, she seeks answers and possibly justice over the man who led to her brothers' death - Gaedren Lamm. And word has reached her that she was not the only one so wronged...

[kckolbe]

Will check it out when I get back then.

I'd like if everyone could have their chars concepts and basic abilities ready within a couple of days, by the end of Tuesday maybe? 

[kckolbe]

She is adorable, Chulanowa.  I'll PM you about one possible background change for story purposes, as well as other questions. 

So, TOS and VonDoom are still working on chars, but I've seen a bit from them in PMs already.  This would put us at about 7 submitted characters, which is about double what I was looking for.  In addition, through a complete fluke which I have never seen before, all 7 are currently female.  I have to be honest with myself here: I'm just not man enough for all of you.  Granted, there will be NPCs, a lot of them, some of them pretty damn interesting (a huge part of why I chose this adventure to run).  Unfortunately, bringing in males to "balance" things a bit makes the party even larger, which I'm not comfortable with.  This is why GMs get paid the big bucks, I suppose.   

For the most part, I'm happy with what I've seen.  I could easily throw together a group and be happy with the characters and players in it.  I want to have more of you, though, which leaves me with finding other ways to fix gender balance (at least a little) and party size...so here goes.

Blinkin: I liked the ideas you were going for with your character, but I know you are still trying to make it work mechanically.  Don't feel locked in to the concept if it isn't working and let us know if you need help.
Chulanowa: I've not seen a char like yours before and I want to fix that.  I am a bit hesitant about having a paladin in a game where I want more room for moral grays, but will let you convince me it's okay if you can.
Ixy: I'd rather see the necromancer.  I hate to say it, but the rogue just doesn't inspire me.  I really liked your chars in the dungeon game as well as Loki's PF game, and you've been fun in OOC.  It doesn't have to be a necromancer, by the way, but I'd rather see something you find fun without considering the group.  Just remember to make him or her a company fit.
Jaded: I'm still hung up on her eyes.  Between that, the mentions of her past, and her odd ways of making a living, I really want to know more about her.
ThatOneShrroth: Despite being paranoid about spelling your name wrong, I've enjoyed working with you on your druid.  We still need to find a way for your char to be part of the business early on, but your dedication to the feel of your char is admirable.
Thorne: It's hard to pick a better example of a char that is tailored to a setting while still something uncommon. 
VonDoom: While I haven't seen much of your concept, I really like how helpful and sociable you've been in the thread and would like to have you on board.  If you would be interested in aiding me with the game and playing some of the significant male NPCs, I think we could have a lot of fun.

The seven of you would often be split up into multiple groups.  The makeup of those groups would change periodically, but they would gain xp at the same rate (fudging it a bit to make it work).  With smaller groups (usually two, sometimes three), it should be easier to keep you challenged.  I'll have to add in a few extra encounters, but I think I can do that, as there are other modules I can work in.

Obviously, having multiple adventures has its issues.  It's more for me to keep up with, which means it might move a bit more slowly, and there is always the issue of one group finishing well before another and having to wait.  Also, once we get to around level 8 or so, it will be harder to split people up, meaning there will be times where all the chars and some NPCs will be part of large ass encounters, which also move incredibly slowly. 

If you are still interested, let me know.  If not, I will not take it personally at all, as you have plenty of good reasons. 

[MiraMirror]

Oh, I figured out how she'd be a part of the company, kc.  Thorne and I figured that she could act as both the "muscle" and as the percussionist. Drums are fairly easy to create out of skins and the like, so it's entirely possible that she learned rhythm in the wilderness, perhaps as a sort of pre-hunting thing.  Using that knowledge for the company is easy enough.

[Chulanowa]

I look forward to those questions. To be totally honest... i've never played paladin before and hve some uncertainties myself... but nothing else is really coming to the surface. I know you're saying you don't need a "balanced party" but, in my head, i have to pitch in towards one anyway. I'll bubble ideas just in case. Trouble is, my brain drifts towards strange races and oddball race / class combos. I even have a randomizer if i want really goofy results...

As for gender balance... I find it next to impossible to play males in fantasy games, because... well, I use images for inspiration, and every fantasy male image I find is scowling, snarling, or brooding, and is either a bovine beefcake bursting out of his absurd spiky armor, or is animu bishi guy whose personality is defined by hair color. Not exactly something that gets character juices flowing.

[MiraMirror]

We are going with the idea that everyone must take 1 campaign trait and 1 non-campaign trait, yes?  The only issue I can find with that is that the feral girl's background doesn't quite match the background of any of the campaign traits, unless you'd allow us to re-flavor them slightly?

[Chulanowa]

Also, maybe I'm spoiled by the more recent Adventure Paths, but the CotCT player guide doesn't really set much stage for the PC's - "you've been wronged by Gaedren Lamm. Have fun!" I mean, no synopsis or the like. and I'm not willing to go flip through the adventure path itself 'cause I hate spoilers  ;D So, not exactly sure what sort of themes there are aside form "kill the bastard."

[Bibliophilia]

If you are looking for someone to play a male, and you don't mind one more player, I'd be interested.  But, I totally understand if you don't want any additional party members to juggle.

[kckolbe]

Good point on player drops.  It is something that tends to happen, after all. 

I completely understand what you mean about the images, as that is something that annoys me as well.  Perhaps we can work a slight rule change allowing a different alignment in return for some other restriction? 

I am completely okay with re-flavoring a trait.  The Lamm thing is extremely forced and not even required, as we are just hired to kill him.  It doesn't have to be personal.  Anyone who took that can change to something slightly less "b action movie"-ish.

Bibliophilia, let me talk to VonDoom and Blinkin first.  I'd like to keep the group small.

[Bibliophilia]

Not a problem!  -grins.-

[Andi]

Just for what it's worth, I'm still interested. Would play a male, but @#$%, have outside demands kept me uncreative. Tentatively considering a Desnan rogue, starknife-thrower. Part of a theater + circus troupe, earns his keep by precision knifethrowing, doubles as bouncer if needed, probably does his share of pursecutting as well.

[kckolbe]

Will consider him, but I'll want to see a source of income from less combat/rogue-ish means as well.

[ChaoticSky]

Damn, seem to have missed the boat on this one.

[Andi]

Urrek

Six foot two tall, with the light-blue skin of an Ulfen with giant blood in his veins, the pointed ears of a half-elf and the silver-blonde hair and bright eyes of a Snowcaster elf, Urrek excels at his work to a large extent because he is so obvious. After all, he cannot possibly be so stupid as to embark on a life of crime when he is recognizable at half a mile in a crowd... can he? Either way, Urrek is a pleasant man, a storyteller of some skill, charming, skilled with words, always a pleasant smile on his lips. He wears the fur-lined leathers of his homeland easily, moves gracefully, and usually has a small entourage following him - the charm of the exotic more than anything, he explains with a small smirk. Aside from telling stories, he sometimes earns money as professional knife-thrower (when he can find a volunteer to act as target).

Most recently, he has arrived in Korvosa, intent on spending a few weeks in a bigger city, refill the coffers and supplies, possibly stay for winter. And that means, Urrek is quickly developing that itch to do things that comes with sedentiary phases.

Statblock

Urrek Thursen
Half-elf (snowborn) rogue (knife master) 2 (Pathfinder RPG Ultimate Combat 72)
NG Medium humanoid (elf, human)
Init +4; Senses low-light vision; Perception +7
--------------------
Defense
--------------------
AC 15, touch 13, flat-footed 12 (+2 armor, +3 Dex)
hp 8 (2d8)
Fort +0, Ref +7, Will +0; +2 vs. enchantments
Defensive Abilities evasion; Immune sleep
--------------------
Offense
--------------------
Speed 30 ft. (20 ft. in armor)
Melee mwk starknife +3 (1d4+1/×3) or
. . starknife +2 (1d4+1/×3)
Special Attacks sneak attack +1d6
--------------------
Statistics
--------------------
Str 12, Dex 18, Con 10, Int 14, Wis 11, Cha 15
Base Atk +1; CMB +2 (+3 sunder); CMD 16 (17 vs. bull rush, 17 vs. overrun)
Feats Martial Weapon Proficiency (starknife), Skill Focus (Diplomacy)
Traits blood of giants, voice of velvet (vudrani)
Skills Acrobatics +6 (+2 to jump), Bluff +7, Diplomacy +11, Disable Device +8, Disguise +7, Knowledge (local) +7, Perception +7, Perform (oratory) +8, Sense Motive +5, Sleight of Hand +6 (+7 to conceal a light blade), Stealth +6; Racial Modifiers +2 Perception
Languages Common, Elven, Skald, Varisian
SQ elf blood, hidden blade, rogue talent (charmer)
Other Gear mwk leather armor, mwk starknife, starknife (10), bedroll, belt pouch, blanket, winter, masterwork backpack, masterwork thieves' tools, 24 gp, 4 sp
--------------------
Special Abilities
--------------------
Charmer (1/day) (Ex) Can roll 2d20 for Diplomacy check and take the better result.
Elf Blood Half-elves count as both elves and humans for any effect related to race.
Elven Immunities - Sleep You are immune to magic sleep effects.
Evasion (Ex) If you succeed at a Reflex save for half damage, you take none instead.
Hidden Blade +1 +1 bonus on Sleight of Hand checks to conceal a light blade.
Low-Light Vision See twice as far as a human in low light, distinguishing color and detail.
Sneak Attack +1d8/+1d4 +1d8 damage with a dagger-like weapon if you flank your target or your target is flat-footed.

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[VonDoom]

I'll try and have my character proposal up today.  :-)

[VonDoom]

Lyra Neriya, CG Human Swashbuckler

Name: Lyra Neriya
Class: Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 2
Race: Human
Alignment: Chaotic Good (dancing on the edge to Chaotic Neutral, but unless pushed more naturally inclined towards CG)

Information and Background

Background
Lyra was born as the first-born daughter of the noble Neriya family, a minor off-shoot of the Arkona without much influence, but between a measure of wealth and the prestige associated with nobility they have carved out a rather comfortable and privileged existence.

Of course, Lyra proved herself the black sheep of the family in pretty much every respect. Growing up she was a little hellcat, constantly sneaking off and running wild - walls and high windows were more challenge than hindrance to her.

As a youth she was often seen on the streets and managed to become friends with a group of kids there. During the time she was notorious for her pretend-plays in which she put on a mask and claimed to be Blackjack, fighting for abandoned kids everywhere. Of course, that couldn't last and eventually her identity was discovered. She was well-liked, but the threat of Hellknights coming after them for 'kidnapping a noble' was too great and so she had to stop meeting them.

Despite her best attempts to avoid her eduction, she still received one and to this day knows her etiquette, her formal dances, all that was expected of a noblewoman -- she was set to be married off, too, at least until she made a show of sleeping with a stable-hand, making sure that they would be discovered in such a manner as to make it impossible to hide her indiscretion. And when they tried it anyway, she challenged a number of hothead young nobles to rather unladylike duels and proceeded to use every dirty trick she knew.

Thus thoroughly disreputed, she had effectively disavowed any advantage familial ties might provide, but in exchange gained her freedom.

Freedom which she mostly spent with her old gang (now all grown up) at Pilts Swastel's Exemplary Execrables, where she hired on as a stage actor - as a trained fencer, she performs a variety of stunts and often takes male roles. [Can be switched to a different place or after a falling out she simply moved to whatever place our group is involved in.]

Recently, the child of her younger sister disappeared. (Sister: Sanya Neriya, Niece: Siri Neriya) Though their relationship has been frosty at best since Sanya effectively had to take Lyra's position in the family, she is still blood and since the guard has been unable or unwilling to investigate properly, Lyra has taken to searching the streets, figuring that she has a better chance to get Siri back than her mollycoddled sister.

Personality
Lyra grew up as a noble but her heart pulled her towards the street and its far less stuck up ways. Despite this, she is no fanciful dreamer -- she wants adventure, fame, fortunes, all those things, of course, but past failures and travails have curbed her enthusiasm into a more realistic mindset.

She likes the life of a rowdy performer and sellsword and wouldn't give the freedom it brings her up for the world. Freedom means everything to her, the ability to choose her own path -- and anything that gets in the way of that brings out the fierce side of her, dry wit giving way to quiet rage and gleaming blades.

With the sort of people she enjoys being around (scoundrels, performers, honest workers, adventurers) she is largely pleasant, even forthcoming and quick to make friends or take lovers, for the latter of which she has an appreciation of both male and female.

With haughty nobles or people who affect similar attitudes, her own quickly becomes cold and defensive, even unpleasant. She has little patience for the pretensions of her own family and even less for those unrelated.

Notable Skills as an Employee
Bodyguard and Skill Demonstrations/Wagers aside, Lyra is skilled at stage performance and has turned her childhood fancies into a measure of actual acting skill (some sleight of hand and escape artistry doesn't hurt, either, for portraying those dashing heroes) -- not to mention her dancing, which is not nearly as limited to classic dances as her former tutors would like.

Though effectively disavowed, she still knows how to play at nobility and etiquette, knows the customs and people, perhaps opening doors where otherwise there would be none.

Appearance

Lyra on a bad day.

Lyra's sharp features are framed by wavy auburn hair that reaches just past her shoulders: attentive blue eyes, fierce eyebrows, high cheekbones and full lips that do what they can to lessen her overall severity, though that impression is often put to the test when she flashes a brilliant smile.

Unlike many performers she prefers to be fully dressed unless her role specifically calls for a different ensemble and it reflects on how she dresses normally -- yet for all of this, she has nothing in particular to hide. Her shape is an athletic one, yet she has managed to retain her feminine curves - her breasts pleasant handfulls, her hips perhaps not prominent but undoubtedly feminine. An intricate weave of tattoos runs along her back and her upper arms, a netting of stylized roses and thorns.

Her preferred manner of clothes are a simple shirt and black pants, over that a red buttoned-up vest and a dull-black coat, usually open to emphasize her form and display some color. Always on her belt are her rapier and the light crossbow she keeps as a backup.

Sometimes she wears a triangular hat, matched in color to her coat -- usually when things get grim.

Statsheet

Lyra Neriya
CG Human Swashbuckler (Inspired Blade) 2
HP: 16
BAB +2

Attributes
Str 10, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 14

Saves:
Con: 2 (0+2[con])
Ref: 7 (3+4[dex])
Will: 1 (0+1[trait])

Panache
4 (+1/2 from favored class)

Traits:
Fencer
Missing Child [Missing Son or Daughter (Niece)]

Skills: 4+Int (2)+1=14 (7 maxed)
Acrobatics 1
Bluff 1
Climb 1
Diplomacy 1
Escape Artist 1
Intimidate 1
Knowledge (Local) 1
Knowledge (Nobility) 1
Perception 1
Performance (Act) 1
Performance (Dance) 1
Ride 1
Sense Motive 1
Sleight of Hand 1

Feats:
1 Fencing Grace (Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus [rapier])
1 Combat Reflexes

Class Features:
1 Deeds, Inspired Panache, Inspired Finesse (Weapon Finesse, Weapon Focus [rapier])
2 Charmed life 3/day

Attack:
MW Rapier, +8 attack, 1d6+4 damage, 18-20 critical
Light Crossbow, +4 attack, 1d8 damage, 19-20 critical

AC: 19 10 + 4 armor + 1 shield + 4 dex)

Inventory:
[1000gp starting money (taken from Wealth by Level chart)]

MW Rapier, 320gp, 2 lbs
Light Crossbow, 35 gp, 4 lbs
Chain Shirt, 100gp, 25 lbs
Buckler, 5gp, 5 lbs
Sleeves of Many Garments, 200gp, 1 lb
Explorer's Outfit (free), 8 lbs

Light Horse (Combat Trained), 110 gp
Riding Saddle, 10 gp
Saddlebags, 4 gp
Small Tent, 10 gp
MW Backpack, 50 gp, 4 lbs
Pathfinder's Kit, 12 gp, 22lbs
Grooming Kit, 1 gp, 2 lbs
Rapier, 20 gp, 2 lbs
Rapier, 20 gp, 2 lbs
Dice, 1 sp
Cards, 1 sp
102,8 gp remaining

[VonDoom]

New proposal, sadly a fairly rushed writeup. To make things more simple and have the concept out faster, I will use the same stat setup, only switching out the skills, campaign trait, and equipment. I'll do the equipment later.

Information and Background

Background
Magnus Verrier's grandfather was a Varisian blacksmith who traveled the lands in hopes of mastering his craft. He eventually settled in Minkai, marrying into a family whose traditional craft was swordsmithing after they recognized his talent. His father (Jin Verrier, he later re-adopted the Varisian family name), then, was a swordsmith who grew up learning the family trade as well as local swordsmanship, but was ostracised for his status as a half-breed. Eventually he decided to travel to the home of his 'barbarian' father in hopes that they would prove more accepting.

They did. Not always, of course, but he found love there, relatives he hadn't known before and a new home. A few years later, he had become a popular weaponmaker even among the nobility -- and, of course, Magnus was born.

He grew up quickly -- as the son of a famous swordsmith he wasn't exactly nobility, nor could his family be considered wealthy, but they were certainly well off and he grew up in that comfortable sort of household where you didn't have to worry about starving every day but still had a honest life without the complications and intricacies of court life.

Magnus learned the family trade, learned to fight and eventually it was discovered that he was a lot better at the latter. Back in Tian Xia, Magnus' father had learned that fighter and blade should be one and that was what he passed along to his son. Magnus took from that that a true master of the sword would both make and wield it in equal measure.

He didn't have many friends, growing up, only two or three -- as his apprenticeship permitted him -- but for those he was the most steadfast and loyal of companions. Of course, the folly of youth always interferes, and where his father knew not to get entangled too much with the aristocracy Magnus fell in love with a young noblewoman, the daughter of one of their customers. He tried his best to fit into that world, learning manners as befit a courtier, but was ultimately rebuked by one of her more 'legitimate' suitors.

And mysteriously, after that happened, the Verrier smithy started losing customers. Eventually his father grew sick, the frustration about not being able to work his craft perhaps exacerbating his sickness -- he would likely have passed away soon after, if he had not been killed first. Jin was returning from work, which he still forced himself to do, and murdered right on the street, robbed of his heirloom ring.

Unable to rely on their old reputation and forced now to provide for his mother and much younger siblings (a brother and a sister), he began to ply his trade in the streets -- attempting to garner interest by demonstrating his skill with a blade to show the quality of the blade. Magnus still hopes to bring whoever murdered his father to justice one day, but so far has been unable to find any leads.

Personality
Magnus has tasted both the simple life and that of the high-born, if only briefly. He still isn't sure which one he prefers, but for now he has other priorities. Family matters and he has one to provide for. That has to come first.

The weight of responsibility has forced him to become more serious and he spends most of his time improving his craft or trying to peddle his skills. He isn't really satisfied with the current state of things, but he believes that if he persists things will get better.

Appearance Magnus has the looks of a serious man, with angular features - a broad well-shaved chin, strong nose and a prominent brow. Light-brown hair rests on the top of his head and frames his cheeks, short sideburns on each side. Though he carries some Tian Xia heritage, he doesn't really show it, his features clearly masculine in the way more common to these lands. His frame is tall, his limbs long and with clear muscle definition -- the definition of an acrobat, broadened by his work as a smith. He wears a dark grey long coat, buttoned on the left side, together with a white cloak, complete with cowl, attached by cords. The coat is held tight by a broad dark-brown girdle, on which he wears his blade. Those who have faced him before in duel or training know he also hides armor beneath that coat, a mesh of chain intent to provide the most protection while leaving him his precious mobility.

Statsheet

Magnus Verrior
Human (varisian) swashbuckler (inspired blade) 2 (Pathfinder RPG Advanced Class Guide 56, 125)
LN Medium humanoid (human)
Init +4; Senses Perception +4
--------------------
Defense
--------------------
AC 19, touch 14, flat-footed 15 (+4 armor, +4 Dex, +1 shield)
hp 16 (2d10+4)
Fort +2, Ref +7, Will +0
Defensive Abilities charmed life 3/day
--------------------
Offense
--------------------
Speed 30 ft.
Melee mwk rapier +8 (1d6+4/18-20)
Ranged mwk light crossbow +7 (1d8/19-20)
Special Attacks deeds (derring-do, dodging panache, opportune parry and riposte), panache (4)
--------------------
Statistics
--------------------
Str 10, Dex 18, Con 14, Int 14, Wis 10, Cha 14
Base Atk +2; CMB +2; CMD 16 (16 vs. disarm)
Feats Combat Reflexes, Fencing Grace, Weapon Focus (rapier)
Traits fencer, love lost (orphaned)
Skills Acrobatics +7, Bluff +6, Climb +3, Craft (armor) +10, Craft (weapons) +10, Diplomacy +6, Escape Artist +7, Intimidate +6, Knowledge (local) +6, Knowledge (nobility) +6, Perception +4, Ride +7, Sense Motive +4, Sleight of Hand +7, Survival +0 (+2 to avoid becoming lost when using this)
Languages Common, Dwarven, Minkaian, Varisian
SQ inspired panache
Combat Gear potion of cure light wounds (2), alchemist's kindness; Other Gear mwk chain shirt, mwk buckler, mwk light crossbow, mwk rapier, belt pouch, cards, chalk, compass, dice, fishhook (2), flint and steel, journal, masterwork artisan's tools, masterwork artisan's tools, masterwork backpack, mirror, sealing wax, sewing needle, signal whistle, string or twine, weapon cord, whetstone, light horse (combat trained), bedroll, bit and bridle, blanket, brush, shaving (0.1 lb), caltrops, crossbow bolts, cup, shaving (0.2 lb), feed (per day), hemp rope (50 ft.), mug/tankard, rapier, rapier, rapier, rapier, riding saddle, saddlebags, shaving powder (one shave) (0.01 lb), shovel, straight razor (0.2 lb), tent, small, trail rations, wagon, light, waterskin, 126 gp, 12 sp, 2 cp
--------------------
Special Abilities
--------------------
Charmed Life +2 (3/day) (Ex) Choose to add Charisma bonus to save before roll is made.
Combat Reflexes (5 AoO/round) Can make extra attacks of opportunity/rd, and even when flat-footed.
Compass +2 circumstance for Survival or Knowledge (Dungeoneering) to avoid becoming lost.
Fencer +1 to hit with dagger or sword AoOs.
Fencing Grace Add Dex instead of Str to rapier damage. +2 CMD vs. disarm if you have at least 1 panache point.
Inspired Panache (Ex) Gain no panache from killing blow, only from rapier crits.
Panache (Ex) Gain a pool of points that are spent to fuel deeds, regained on light/piercing crit/killing blow.
Weapon cord Attached weapon can be recovered as a swift action.


--------------------

Horse, light (combat trained)
Horse  (Pathfinder RPG Bestiary 177)
N Large animal
Init +2; Senses low-light vision, scent; Perception +6
--------------------
Defense
--------------------
AC 11, touch 11, flat-footed 9 (+2 Dex, -1 size)
hp 15 (2d8+6)
Fort +6, Ref +5, Will +1
--------------------
Offense
--------------------
Speed 50 ft.
Melee (M) rapier -3 (1d6+3/18-20) or
. . (M) rapier -3 (1d6+3/18-20) or
. . (M) rapier -3 (1d6+3/18-20) or
. . (M) rapier -3 (1d6+3/18-20) or
. . 2 hooves +3 (1d4+3)
Space 10 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
--------------------
Statistics
--------------------
Str 16, Dex 14, Con 17, Int 2, Wis 13, Cha 7
Base Atk +1; CMB +5; CMD 17 (21 vs. trip)
Feats Endurance, Run[/B]
Tricks Attack, Combat Riding, Come, Defend, Down, Guard, Heel
Skills Acrobatics +2 (+6 to jump with a running start, +10 to jump), Perception +6
SQ combat riding
Combat Gear caltrops (5); Other Gear crossbow bolts (100), rapier, rapier, rapier, rapier, bedroll, bit and bridle, blanket, brush, shaving (0.1 lb), cup, shaving (0.2 lb), feed (per day) (2), hemp rope (50 ft.), mug/tankard, riding saddle, saddlebags, shaving powder (one shave) (0.01 lb) (50), shovel, straight razor (0.2 lb), tent, small, trail rations (7), wagon, light, waterskin
--------------------
Special Abilities
--------------------
Combat Riding [Trick] The animal has been trained to bear a rider into combat.
Endurance +4 to a variety of fort saves, skill and ability checks. Sleep in L/M armor with no fatigue.
Low-Light Vision See twice as far as a human in low light, distinguishing color and detail.
Run Run 5x your speed in light/medium armor or 4x speed in heavy armor and keep Dex when running.
Scent (Ex) Detect opponents within 15+ feet by sense of smell.

[kckolbe]

Looks good.

[VonDoom]

@Ixy Sorry I'm responding so late to that bit, but if a more refined barbarian is still of interest, there's also the Barbarian/Sorcerer class, the Bloodrager (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/bloodrager) or the Barbarian/Bard, the Skald (http://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/hybrid-classes/skald).

@kclolbe In regards to taking over NPCs, if you need help I'm of course willing to assist, but I have to admit to relative inexperience writing the sexy stuff ... well, and the last time I was supposed to dedicatedly portray NPC it was mostly waiting and then the game failed, so that didn't work out so well ... but as I said, if it gets too much, I'll gladly help out, but outside of that I'd rather stick to one character.

[VonDoom]

Statsheet updated. I took the liberty of having him craft his own armor and weapons, so he managed to squeeze in a few extra weapons to peddle (and he kept the best he made so far for himself, of course).

[Ixy]

For review and suggestions:

   

Kasmira

Ah, the idyllic orphan story-- it was as in the fairy tales, a basket on a doorstep, a soft blanket with gold trim that hinted at nobility, a lovely babe with bright eyes, porcelain skin, and raven-black hair.  Yes, Master Rence and Mistress Catherina Doska, retired to their country estate, were quite smitten with the infant that became the focus of their lives.  Having retired, childless, to a defensible chateau stocked with servants and vineyards, they needed a distraction from their boring and tedious lives of wealth in the countryside.  The girl provided that-- growing lovely in her youth, she was the focus of their tales for guests both merchant and semi-noble, she was the reason for their parties and the recipient of their lavish gifts.  They named the girl Kasmira, and she was suited-after by youths and leches quite heavily in her time.

Paying little heed to the girl's peculiarities-- her fondness for blue-rare meat, her sensitivity to bright daylight and insistence on heavy curtains in her chambers, her strange interests in morbid tales and taboo subjects-- they turned away suitors on her behalf and distracted her with a broad library and the loveliest of dresses.  She was a spoiled prat, no doubt, but she made them quite happy.  The onset of her puberty was quite late, which gave them greater cause to enjoy spoiling her in her 'girlish years'.  Her fascination with dead things was simple 'childhood curiosity' or 'sensitivity'.  And her parlor tricks-- the abilities she began to show to manipulate things and turn away servants that annoyed her?  Well, those were just quirks of her mystery, and one day she would grow out of them.

Regardless, she began to earn a reputation among the visitors-- some said she was a succubus that was leeching life and wealth from her aging parents, and others that she was a changeling that would one day return to the realm of the dark fae.  Little heed was given these warnings, although her suitors dried up, and the legends greatly overshadowed any true menace.   

When visitors declined and her parents grew more feeble, the girl took to bouts of exploring... visiting taverns, inviting herself to dances that she'd received no invitation to.  She loved her parents-- well, at least had a fondness for them... but she wanted to experiment, to see the things that people rarely spoke of.  She made pretense of joining a convent, only to sneak out when she grew bored.  She entertained an ivory merchant's advances only to brush him off when he insisted on marriage.  She visited caravans and stole moments of arcanists' time, dug up bodies and lingered in brothels.  Every curiosity was hers to indulge... until her adopted parents, one night, were murdered. 

They and their servants were slaughtered, and all were strung up for display at the gates of their home.  There was evidence of some robbery, but the violence and brutality so outweighed the monetary gain that the murder was assumed to be a personal vendetta.  A fisherman on the loch described seeing a young woman in league with a half-dozen horsemen ride to the chateau the night of the murder, and having heard screams he fled to the next village to drink away his terrors.

His story was accepted as fact, and the suspicious townsfolk blamed Kasmira-- the morbid girl's room was filled with curious trophies, in fact... jewels from the deceased, tomes of dark magic, and even a few human skulls.  She was unable to account for her whereabouts because the nomadic merchants that she'd spent the evening with had left town without a trace, and she even had blood under her fingernails (a coincidence of regretfully having to purchase raw lamb to scorch for her breakfast). 

Incarcerated for weeks, she was finally freed when her closest friend, confronting the fisherman, forced him to reveal additional details about the mysterious assailants at the home that cast doubt on Kasmira's involvement.  Before the girl could be released from prison, the poor fisherman went missing, and his body (when it broke free of the chains on its ankles and drifted ashore) was found a week later, bloodless, bloated, and putrid.

Kasmira has since found a theater and tavern that, in the owner's kindness, allows her to entertain travelers for coin so she can keep up room and board.  All her family's wealth was seized by the government, despite the fact that charges against her were dismissed, because as an adopted child she could not be named an heir under local law.  With only a trunk of her old possessions, she lives humbly and performs acts of 'spiritual premonition' for guests-- the reading of tarot cards, spirit-board communication, and seances of minor prestidigitation.  She knows that personal wealth and power are the only tools she has for revenge, and she is plotting to build her reputation and wealth as best opportunity can provide, though for the past few weeks she has barely been scraping by.

[kckolbe]

This character is so interesting that I am almost upset with you for not posting her sooner.  All I ask is that two skill points go to something to help her make money.  Perform: fortune-telling, maybe, or crafting.  Craft: Calligraphy, bookbinding, jeweler, or maybe painter, constructing portraits of rather morbid scenes.

[Ixy]

I appreciate the compliment.  I kept messing around with it in my head until I decided on it today.  I was thinking that she could use prestidigitation, bluff, and sense motive to perform convincing street magic, fake seances, etc.  If I pick either a level of performance or profession, would that be ok?  And which one would be more appropriate for a charlatan-level performance?

[kckolbe]

Ah, I see where you are going now.  Admittedly, I am still fond of her painting her "visions."  Failing that, perform works, adding a +2 to the roll once you get 5 ranks in bluff and sense motive.

[Ixy]

I can do that, for sure.  I also liked the idea of her mixing her "harmless little shows' with just enough real magic to sadistically scare the pants off these poor townsfolk, at some point....

[kckolbe]

You are a horrible person, Ixy.  I'll create an OOC soon.  Thinking NC Exotic System Small Groups.

By the way, Chulanowa successfully described the business I am going for as a Hooters-style flea market, which I am going to steal.

[Ixy]

Chicken wings, broken tools, home-make pork rinds and semi-nude hula girls.  Sounds like a party.

[MiraMirror]

Evera can provide the atmospheric drums...She only does tribal. :l

[kckolbe]

Maybe a survival-based skill?  Leatherworking/tanning, an antlerer, maybe, or woodcarving.  Trapmaking would also work.

[Chulanowa]

Be a dog whisperer!

[kckolbe]

Be a dog whisperer!

We have one of those already

[MiraMirror]

Well, I just figured that it'd work if she was the muscle/bouncer/percussionist for the group, since percussion has been around for ages, even for older tribes.  I'm open to suggestions, mind.  I figured that she might've learned from her father how to make spears and some basic weapons like it, or how to make armor (like the hide armor that she wears).

[kckolbe]

Well we have a weaponsmith/armorsmith with VonDoom, but if he is open to having someone to work with (to lessen crafting times) then by all means.  If not, generic woodworking or leatherworking, maybe even a bowyer could all fit the theme.

[MiraMirror]

The most important thing is that it matches what she'd be capable of doing in the wilderness. She only rarely visited her mother and sister in the city, so she wouldn't havehave had the "good" equipment to work with (like furnaces and anvils).

[VonDoom]

Sure, always good to have someone handle the woodwork (I mean, sure, spears still fall under Craft Weapons, but someone with woodwork could probably still give the +2 bonus from Assist Other ... or speed up crafting, yes) and keep the forge hot.  ::)

Though depending on what she looks like, he might feel bad about making a slight girl do hard work. :P

[Jaded]

I'm still not fully happy with the background, but wanted to get something posted before Tuesday.


Iriel Goldwind, at least that is the name she uses among humans, is a one hundred and twenty six year old elf.  She rarely speaks of her past, of the violent storm that shattered the ship her family was travelling on, or the years she spent crafting poisons and other lethal concoctions for an assassin’s guild after she washed up on shore. 

She is the child of Elven wanderers and alchemists, a duo who made their way studying the world and unlocking its secrets.  They taught her as they travelled, and even at a young age she had a knack for alchemy.  The storm that killed her parents, and left her half-drowned on a distant shore, changed Iriel's life forever.  Between a fever and hallucinations, she doesn't remember much of the days that followed.  Questions about her past and skills, threats of violence if she tried to escape, and an offer of employment that was effectively slavery.  When her mind finally cleared, she was working for a small group of assassins, producing poisons for their use.

She took up dancing as an escape, the freedom of movement a protest against the cramped quarters that she lived most of her life in.  She never thought that she'd one day use it to help support herself. 

It was in the confusion during a raid by the local city guard that Iriel saw her chance.  She fled, taking what little coin she had managed to scavenge, and booked a trip on the first ship she came across.  She had no destination in mind, just away, far away. 

Korvosa was a place for Iriel to make a new start.  She chose it at random, hoping that those that might be searching for her would have difficulty following a trail that didn't have a specific purpose.  She found a job as a stage dancer and occasional mercenary.  While she still practices alchemy, she refuses to sell poison.  While she might use it to aid herself, she doesn't want to be responsible for the death of those that may be innocent. 

Spoiler: Click to Show/Hide

Aeriele Mithtalen, Eriel 'the Elven Dancer' Goldwind
Level 2 True Neutral Elven Alchemist

STR:  8 [-1]   INT: 20 [+5]
DEX: 16 [+3]   WIS: 10 [+0]
CON:  8 [-1]   CHA: 14 [+2]

HP: 8
BAB: +1
Fort +2, Ref +6, Will +0

  CLASS
Alchemy
Bomb 1d6
Brew Potion
Mutagen
Throw Anything
Discovery
Poison Resistance +2
Poison Use

  FEATS
Skill Focus (Craft, Alchemy)

  TRAITS
Alchemical Adept (+2 Craft Alchemy, don't ruin ingredients as easily)
Talented, Dance (+1 Perform (Dance), Perform always a class skill)


  RACIAL
Elven Immunities: Elves are immune to magic sleep effects and gain a +2 racial saving throw bonus against enchantment spells and effects.

Keen Senses: Elves receive a +2 racial bonus on Perception checks.

Envoy: Elves often have trouble relating to neighbors of other races, especially those with much shorter lifespans. As a result, some are trained in minor magics that are particularly useful when dealing with non-elves. Elves with this racial trait and an Intelligence score of 11 or higher gain the following spell-like abilities once per day: comprehend languages, detect magic, detect poison, and read magic. The caster level for these effects is equal to the elf's level. This racial trait replaces elven magic.

Weapon Familiarity: Elves are proficient with longbows (including composite longbows), longswords, rapiers, and shortbows (including composite shortbows), and treat any weapon with the word “elven” in its name as a martial weapon.

Low-Light Vision: Elves can see twice as far as humans in conditions of dim light.

  SKILLS
Acrobatics +5, Craft (Alchemy) +17, Disable Device +8,
Knowledge (Nature) +10, Perception +7, Perform (Dance) +8,
Sleight of Hand +8, Spellcraft +10, Survival +5,
Use Magic Device +7

Languages: Common, Elven, Celestial, Draconic, Goblin, Orc, Sylvan

  DISCOVERIES
Precise Bombs

  EXTRACTS
--1st Level (4/day)
Crafter's Fortune
Cure Light Wounds
Disguise Self
Firebelly
Illusion of Calm
Polypurpose Panacea
Shield
Targeted Bomb Admixture

[VonDoom]

Drawbacks/Flaws were allowed? Hmm, I may have to look into those, then, maybe one or another is appropriate for Magnus.

Edit: Hmm, Overprotective seems like a nice one for him. The Family Ties one is kinda bleh, since it doesn't account for ridiculous things like asking for a pony or somesuch.

[Bibliophilia]

Flynn Kettleblack

Flynn's mother was a seamstress and his father was a sailor.  His father wasn't home much, but when he was, he regaled his family with tales of adventure on the high seas, thrilling his only son with whispered stories of monstrous beasts and deadly storms.  His mother didn't approve of the stories, worrying that such ideas would lead their son to follow in his father's footsteps.  Her plans for him were far safer and less likely to have him leaving home for months on end.  She wished for her son to settle down, become a merchant and have a large family.  He likes to think he's fulfilled her wishes, to some degree.  It's likely, after all, that he has a few bastards out there somewhere.

Flynn was first introduced to firearms while visiting his father on the docks, meeting the incoming ship and taking advantage of his connections to get a look at the imported goods before the rest of Korvosa.  His father showed him the pistol they'd imported for some wealthy so-and-so, and it was the most intriguing and beautiful thing Flynn had seen in his young life.  His curiosity led him to talk his way into working in the kitchens of the rich merchant, Quinton Lockehart, in the hopes of finding a way to learn more about the weapon.  His natural charm and pleasurable company proved valuable in his endeavors, and soon he found himself going from Quinton's dishwasher to his apprentice.  Quinton was a childless widow, and the more time he spent with the young Halfling, the closer their bond became, until he considered Flynn the son he'd never had.

He not only taught the boy how to use a pistol, as well as gifting him one of his own, he trained the boy in crafting the weapons for himself and how to turn his charms to a profit.  When Quinton was framed for the murder of a business rival, those charms...and the threat of the firearm, were how Flynn learned of Gaedren Lamm's involvement.  The death of the fisherman, however, left the city with questions about Quinton and utterly destroyed his reputation, as well as his business.  Unable to work, the man fell into a deep depression, and no matter how hard Flynn tried, he couldn't pull him out of it.  Almost a year after he was framed, Quinton put a bullet through his brain, and left his apprentice and friend with the burning need to avenge him

Flynn runs a small stall, selling firearms to those wealthy enough, and ballsy enough, to buy them.  When he's not plying his wares, he can be found drinking, gambling or fucking.  Sometimes all three.  A man of insatiable appetites, and unfortunately bad luck, he rarely has more than enough gold to cover his expenses.  While exceptionally clever at games of skill, his passion lies in games of chance, and he is notoriously bad at them.  Still, his natural charm, good natured manner and sense of humor, even when on a losing streak, make him quite enjoyable company.  He rarely, if ever, has to pay for companionship, and yet almost never sleeps alone.

Despite his seeming irreverence and joie de vivre, within him smolders an ember of hatred, and the memory of a vow made at the side of Quinton's corpse after he had discovered him cold, and stiff.  One day Gaedren Lamm would suffer the same wounds as his mentor and friend.  The gun he'd taken from the suicide, the gun that had first brought him to the merchant's house, would complete the circle and end Lamm as it had Quinton.

[Chulanowa]

Alright, got together an updated version of the character. Might go and re-do the equipment, but whatever.

Ramzenny Tarblottle

Class: Paladin
Race: Gnome
Deity(s): Arshea
Alignment: Lawful Good
Campaign Trait: Addicted Friend (+2 to Knowledge: Local)
Tradeskill: heal (Massage, herbal pharmacopeia, and general health-related services)
Character Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheetview.php?sheetid=1074171

Stat block

Ramzenny Tarblottle
Gnome Paladin
LG Small humanoid (Gnome)
Init +1 Senses Darkvision; Perception -1

Defense

AC 18, touch 12, flat-footed 17 (+1 dex, +4 Armor, +1 shield, +1 size)
hp 16 (2d8+4)
Fort +8, Ref +4, Will +5
Defensive Abilities Bond to the Land (Urban), Illusion Resistance. Divine Drace

Bond to the Land

Some gnomes have strong ties to specific kinds of terrain, as a holdover from their fey origins. These gnomes gain a +2 dodge bonus to AC when in a specific terrain type selected from the ranger list of favored terrains. This choice is made at character creation, and cannot be changed. This racial trait replaces defensive training and hatred.

Illusion Resistance

Gnomes gain a +2 racial saving throw bonus against illusion spells and effects.

Divine grace

At 2nd level, a paladin gains a bonus equal to her Charisma bonus (if any) on all Saving Throws.

Offense

Speed 20 ft.
Melee Greatsword +6 (1d10 19-20/x2) or
   Morningstar +6 (1d6 x2) or
   Lance (1d10 x3)
Ranged Composite Longbow +4 (1d6+3/x3)
Special attacks Smite Evil 1/day

Smite Evil

Once per day, a paladin can call out to the powers of good to aid her in her struggle against evil. As a swift action, the paladin chooses one target within sight to smite. If this target is evil, the paladin adds her Cha bonus (if any) to her attack rolls and adds her paladin level to all damage rolls made against the target of her smite. If the target of smite evil is an outsider with the evil subtype, an evil-aligned dragon, or an undead creature, the bonus to damage on the first successful attack increases to 2 points of damage per level the paladin possesses. Regardless of the target, smite evil attacks automatically bypass any DR the creature might possess.

In addition, while smite evil is in effect, the paladin gains a deflection bonus equal to her Charisma modifier (if any) to her AC against attacks made by the target of the smite. If the paladin targets a creature that is not evil, the smite is wasted with no effect.

The smite evil effect remains until the target of the smite is dead or the next time the paladin rests and regains her uses of this ability. At 4th level, and at every three levels thereafter, the paladin may smite evil one additional time per day, as indicated on Table: Paladin, to a maximum of seven times per day at 19th level.

Spell-Like Abilities (CL 2; concentration +5)
   1/day - ghost sound (DC 15)
   1/day - dancing lights
   1/day - prestidigitation
   1/day - speak with animals
   At will - detect evil

Statistics

Str 16, Dex 12, Con 14, Int 10, Wis 9, Cha 16
Base Atk +2; CMB +4; CMD 15
Feats (1) Power Attack
Skills diplomacy +7, handle animal +7, heal +3, knowledge (local), ride +5, sense motive +3
Languages Common, Gnome, Sylvan
SQ Aura of Good, lay on hands

Aura of Good

The power of a paladin's aura of good (see the detect good spell) is equal to her paladin level.

Lay on Hands

Beginning at 2nd level, a paladin can heal wounds (her own or those of others) by touch. Each day she can use this ability a number of times equal to 1/2 her paladin level plus her Charisma modifier. With one use of this ability, a paladin can heal 1d6 hit points of damage for every two paladin levels she possesses. Using this ability is a standard action, unless the paladin targets herself, in which case it is a swift action. Despite the name of this ability, a paladin only needs one free hand to use this ability.

Alternatively, a paladin can use this healing power to deal damage to undead creatures, dealing 1d6 points of damage for every two levels the paladin possesses. Using lay on hands in this way requires a successful melee touch attack and doesn't provoke an attack of opportunity. Undead do not receive a saving throw against this damage.

Traits Addicted Friend, Self-sacrifice

Background

   Ramzenny is not a native of Korvosa; rather she and her family are natives of Magnimar; well, at least as native as one can be to such a young city. Her Whistledown parents joined the first colonists from Korvosa a hundred years ago, and happily worked their way into the middle class of the City of monuments as fine instrument crafters. Rather astoundingly, they raised a large family; five children, of which Ramzenny was the only girl, and second-youngest.

   Even from youth, Ramzenny was a curious creature. Magnimar is a city filled with odd notions of faith and religion, with the old varisian worship of the empyreal lords mingling with the other faiths of the Inner sea, and for a time, Ramzenny studied all of them. of course some don't take well to a gnome hiding under the pews taking field notes as if observing a long-lost tribe.

   But the worshipers of one empyreal Lord didn't mind. In fact, they extended a hand and welcomed her to their prayers. The cult of Arshea was small even in Magnimar, but earnest, and through their rites and teachings, she learned tenets of the Spirit of Abandon; a new love of beauty and song, freedom of body and spirit, and when she was deemed ready, the mysteries of the body, both for joy and mercy.

   Sometimes to hear though, one must cut; Arshea's followers were sometimes seen as easy marks, peaceful, soft, and few in number. When the mistress of Ramzenny's congregation was attacked in broad daylight by a band of Scarzni thugs, it was Ramzenny, alone of the group, who stood to drive them away. Though she did not escape unscathed, she had found a new calling; service of arms for the divine.

   It was shortly after this that  her younger brother, Dellorim seemed to disappear. he had joined a merchant crew, eager to see new lands, and never came back; the Varisian captain insisted that the young gnome had simply never come back. Worried, Ramzenny took the next ship to the port of call where Dellorim had vanished; Korvosa.

   It took several weeks of asking and nosing about before she found her brother, in an Old Town hospice, already so far gone that even Ramzenny's healing could not bring him back; she could heal his body but his mind was already fading away. For two days she was at his side, and when he finally slept, to never truly wake again, she had a name in mind - Gaedren Lamm, the man who had plied the drug on her brother in the first place. However, the city guards informed her they had no time for a foreign gnome's problem with a two-bit dealer.

   She's been stewing since. Unwilling to return home without justice for her brother, she has taken up a trade of healing, doing what she can to bring others away from the hopelessness that makes shiver and its like so tempting, and to heal the bodies of those who she can. she hopes to spread the name of Arshea and the angel's mercies, even in this city's stifling and stilted environs.

[kckolbe]

Nice!  I'll start the necessary threads (except for IC) after work.

And I am going to say no to flaws.

[VonDoom]

Shame, I like their Pathfinder implementation much better than what they did in 3.5.

Bibliophilia, have you looked at the Mysterious Stranger archetype? If you're going for a charismatic fellow, that's the archetype that's basically geared towards that.

Also, if anyone wants to get Masterwork weapons or armor, Magnus can make them for you. Not sure if our good GM approves of crafting for the remaining cast in advance, but it could at least be fluffed that way if anyone is interested. Usually crafted mundane stuff costs 1/3 the price, so he'd do it for 2/3 for good colleagues. An MW Rapier is priced at 320gp, for example, so that's 107 gp round up material cost and a discounted price of 214gp.

Once we're a proper group and mutually sharing profit, he'd of course do it for material recompense.

[Bibliophilia]

Yeah, I looked at it.  It's not a bad Archetype, but I don't like the idea of losing my Gun Training 1 at level 5, so I just played with my points.  I appreciate the heads-up, though.

[kckolbe]

VonDoom, at least let the ladies offer to pay in services ~grins~

Crafting pre-game is fine, though will still require rolls if unable to take 10.  I'll set limits like that in the OOC thread.

[VonDoom]

With the campaign trait, he has sufficient skill to do MW via take 10, luckily. :)

I was in a game once where the GM made a quick and dirty fusion of Mysterious Stranger and Gunslinger, mixing and balancing their traits together, that was pretty awesome to play. But the campaign was heavily homebrewed in the first place.

So, folks, weapons and armour at 2/3 rate, then. MW or not, whichever you want. Just be sure to tell me, since Magnus gets half of that. Which is actually pretty awesome, since then I'll have some funds to full his cart with more than just a few replacement non-MW rapiers.

[MiraMirror]

I'll be putting the skill rank into Craft:Weapons, so she could help...in a primitive manner. Just let her bang on things.

[VonDoom]

Welp, you only need DC10 to assist, so it shouldn't be a problem if hers isn't too high.

Other Craft skills that might be of interest are bows, leather and traps. I believe we have Alchemy via Jaded's character and firearms via Flynn.

[MiraMirror]

Evera Calanthe

Female half-elf druid (Feral Shifter) 2
CN Medium humanoid (elf, human)

Crunch

Init +4; Senses low-light vision; Perception +8
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Defense
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AC 16, touch 12, flat-footed 14 (+4 armor, +2 Dex)
hp 16 (2d8+3)
Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +4; +2 vs. enchantments,
Immune Magical sleep
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Offense
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Speed 30 ft. (20 ft. in armor)
Melee Masterwork Spear +5 (1d8+4/20/x3) or
. . Club +4 (1d8+3)
Ranged Masterwork Spear +4 (1d8+4) or
. . Club +3 (1d8+3)
Druid (Feral Shifter) Spells Prepared (CL 2nd; concentration +5)
. . 1st: alarm[D], Shillelagh, Cure Light Wounds, Magic Fang
. . 0 (at will): Create Water, Detect Magic, Light, Purify Food and Drink
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Statistics
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Str 16, Dex 14, Con 16, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 12
Base Atk +1; CMB +4; CMD 16
Feats Skill Focus (Survival), Combat Reflexes
Traits Beast of the Society, Paragon of Speed
Skills Acrobatics -2 (-6 to jump), Climb +2, Craft (leather) +6, Diplomacy +4 (+6 involving creatures that belong to same race/ethnicity as your parents), Handle Animal +10, Heal +9 (+12 to treat common animals, but +1 to treat other creatures), Knowledge (geography) +6, Knowledge (local) +9, Knowledge (nature) +8, Perception +10, Sense Motive +3 (+5 involving creatures that belong to same race/ethnicity as your parents), Spellcraft +7, Survival +5, Swim +2; Racial Modifiers +2 Perception
Languages Common, Druidic, Elven
SQ Elf Blood, Animal Focus, Nature Sense, wild empathy +4
Combat Gear
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Special Abilities
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Elf Blood Half-elves count as both elves and humans for any effect related to race.
Elven Immunities - Sleep You are immune to magic sleep effects.
Low-Light Vision See twice as far as a human in low light, distinguishing color and detail.
Wild Empathy +4 (Ex) Improve the attitude of an animal, as if using Diplomacy.
--------------------

I wanted to get something up before I went to sleep. Obviously, the armor will be changed to be non-MW depending on starting gold, and one of the traits is bound to change depending on what we go with, but it's (mostly) done. I just need to change the skill ranks up and do equipment, then type up the background.

[kckolbe]

https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=219616.0  There's your OOC thread, with some handy info at the top.

Ixy, VonDoom, ThatOneShrroth, Jaded, Thorne, Bibliophilia, and Chulanowa, come on down.

[VonDoom]

Wohoo! Congrats to everyone else and I look forward to playing with you (again, in ... well, actually, most cases). I just posted the sheet in the other thread ... I may improve the writeup at some point, it's really rather rushed.

That said, what's your reasoning behind the crafting house rule? I haven't actually used crafting before, so I'm not too familiar with it, but I recall reading that if you have enough excess to the DC you shorten the crafting period already -- but it had to be like twice the DC to really count. To make it easier/more straightforward to use?

[kckolbe]

I just wanted to speed it up a little.  Crafting just takes a long time is all.

[Andi]

Congrats, have fun.