The Campaign Builder's Guild

Steps to Create a Character:

1) Concept.  Is your character a weatherbeaten corsair from Lophius?  A zerda thief with a quick tongue and a quicker blade?  A hagman witch-warrior with a zealous hatred of leechkin?  A lilix assassin banished for blasphemy?

2) Assign Ability Sores.  You have 24 points to spend.  Your abilities - Strength, Dexterity, Constitution, Intelligence, Wisdom, and Charisma - begin at 10. You have a pool of additional points that you may spend to improve your scores. Each point you spend increases a single ability by 1 point until that score reaches 15. For each point above 15, it costs 2 points to improve an ability. For each point  above 17, it costs 4 points to improve an ability by 1. In addition, you can pick one of your scores as a weakness. In such a case, you drop that score to 8 and cannot spend points to improve it at this time. In return, you gain 2 bonus points to spend on your abilities.

Score	Modifier	Score	Modifier
1	'"5	24'"25	+7
2'"3	'"4	26'"27	+8
4'"5	'"3	28'"29	+9
6'"7	'"2	30'"31	+10
8'"9	'"1	32'"33	+11
10'"11	0	34'"35	+12
12'"13	+1	36'"37	+13
14'"15	+2	38'"39	+14
16'"17	+3	40'"41	+15
18'"19	+4	42'"43	+16
20'"21	+5	44'"45	+17
22'"23	+6	-	-

You can see a detailed breakdown of each ability on the SRD.

3) Choose your race from the list below.

4) Choose your traits.  If you're human, you get 2 of these.  Most non-humans only get one.  Check the racial description for your number of traits.

5) Choose your class(es).  A list is provided at the bottom.  If you are non-human and want to multiclass, consider taking levels in your favoured class: otherwise, you will be hampered by an XP penalty.

6) Buy skills (these will be up soon, but they're fairly close to the 3.5 skills in the SRD).

7) Choose Feats.  You get 2 at first level and 1 at every even level, so a 4th level character gets 4 feats.  Some classes also provide bonus feats.

8 ) Figure Hit Points.  You get the highest possible number of hit points at your first level.  For the other levels, you must roll to see how many hit points you get.  See your class for details.  You add your Constitution modifier each level to your hit points.

9) Purchase equipment.  You have 3500 obeloi (same as gp).  Anything worth less than 1 obelus can be rounded up to 1 obelus.

10) Post character Sheet.  Nomadic has provided an excellent example of what a completed character sheet looks like.

11) Launch your character into the blood-spattered madness that is the Cadaverous Earth.

Characters can be posted here.

A collection of important link can be found at the bottom.

All characters begin without their equipment, but their equipment will be returned to them following the first encounter.

After much deliberation and indecisiveness on my part, characters have 3500 obeloi to purchase this starting equipment.  Characters begin at level 4, to accommodate races with LAs.

Magic items are going to be somewhat downplayed, especially things like magic armor and weapons, which will be relatively rare and unique (this is not a world of generic +1 swords).  I'll allow magic weapons to be purchased at the outset so long as they are given a name and a distinctive appearance/history (which I'm sure anyone here wouldf be more than capable of providing).  They won't be thick on the ground once the campaign starts, however, nor can one stroll down to ye olde magick emporium and pick one up.

More common would be scrolls, potions, magic amulets and rings, and the occasional wondrous item, preferably with a more macabre name and cosmetic flavor.  Grafts and tattoos are very common in Macellaria, though much less common elsewhere (almost nonexistant in Skein, for example).

Masterwork items are widely available.  I'll post the Iron Heroes equipment charts up soon, but for now the equipment list in the SRD is fine (they're almost virtually the same - IH just adds on a few descriptors to its weapons).  Armor works differently in IH than in D&D, however.

Here are the Saving Throw and Armor Charts:

(http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/4563/leveldependent.jpg)

And here's the list of Equipment (1gp = 1 obelus):

(http://img819.imageshack.us/img819/3153/armorandshields.jpg)
(http://img217.imageshack.us/img217/6457/simpleweapons.jpg)
(http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/8387/martialweapons.jpg)
(http://img685.imageshack.us/img685/8924/exoticweapons.jpg)


Hagman

Base speed 30 ft., swim 40 ft.

Hagmen have the aquatic subtype.

+4 Hide in swampy vegetation.

+2 Listen, -2 Spot.  Hagmen have poor eyesight, but they have adapted their other senses.

+2 on Fortitude saves versus poisons and diseases.  Hagmen have natural resistances from dwelling the the swamps.

Amphibious: Hagmen can breathe both water and air.  Hagmen can spend one day per point of Consitution without being immersed in water.  After that they must make a Constitution check (10+1 per previous check) or take 1 point of subdual damage per day until they immerse themselves in water.  Until they are immersed they cannot heal this subdual damage and are fatigued.

Hermaphrodism: Hagmen can change their sex at will.  The process takes one week to complete.  They can also choose to arrest their metamorphosis at any point, producing seven 'liminal' genders which have various significance in Hagman culture.

Scent: Hagmen have the Scent ability, which functions in water.  This greatly assists them while hunting.

Hagmen still get a Background trait but do not receive an additional trait.

Favoured Class: Hunter

Automatic Languages: Glatch, Shambles

Ghul

+2 Constitution, -2 Charisma

Base speed 30 ft.

Darkvision 60 ft.

Grave-Spawn: Ghilan are immune to disease, aging, poison, and death effects.  Grave-spawn cannot receive organic grafts, though pre-existing and mechanical grafts are permitted.

Natural Weapons: Claws 1d3, bite 1d4.

Light Sensitivity: Ghilan are dazzled in direct sunlight.

Carnivorous: Ghilan can only digest meat.

Ghilan get one trait, but it cannot be a Background trait (amnesia).

Favoured Class: Any

Automatic Languages: Shambles

Lilix

Males: +2 Strength, -2 Intelligence
Females: +2 Dexterity, -2 Constitution

Base speed 30 ft.

Darkvision 30 ft.

+2 Bluff

Arachnoid: Lilix have six arms (and two legs).  They have one primary hand and five off hands for combat purposes.  They can, of course, take Multiweapon Fighting to ameliorate the normal penalty for fighting with additional weapons.

Liquid Diet: Lilix can only ingest liquid food.

Lilix still get a Background trait but do not receive an additional trait.

Favoured Class: Executioner

Automatic Languages: Spiderchatter, Chattelchatter

LA +1

Shade

In their natural forms, shades are Oozes with 5d10 HD that take 1 point of damage each round if exposed to sunlight.  However, while possessing a host, Shades are represented by a template:

'Shade' is a template that can be applied to any humanoid, monstrous humanoid, animal, magical beast, or aberration (hereafter referred to as the 'host') of Huge size or smaller.

The host loses its class and all associated features (HD, skills, etc) but gains those of the shade (NOT its Ooze HD - its class HD, which don't apply when the shade is in Ooze form), which are only active while the shade is in possession of a host.  The shade is only expelled from the host if the host is killed or if they are exposed to direct sunlight, in which case they must make a Constitution check (DC 10 +1 per round) every round or be expelled from their host.  Shades can also voluntarily leave their host bodies.

Shades still get a Background trait but do not receive an additional trait.

Darkvision 60 ft.

Grave-Spawn: The host is immune to disease, aging, poison, and death effects.  Grave-spawn cannot receive organic grafts, though pre-existing grafts and mechanical grafts are permitted.

Shades are immune to mind-influencing effects and critical hits: Shades have alien psychologies, and do not perceive pain as their hosts do.  Chop off a host's head, and the shade can continue fighting with it.

Attributes: The host retains its physical attributes.  Its mental attributes are replaced with those of the shade, all of which have a +2 bonus.

The host bodies of shades eventually begin to decompose unless measures are taken to avoid decay.  This manifests as ability damage '" 1 point in each physical attribute a month.

Favoured Class: Any

Automatic Languages: Shambles, Morbis

LA +3

Mantid

Base Speed 30ft., Fly 10 ft. (poor)

Darkvision 30 ft.

+2 Craft (clockwork)

+4 Jump

Natural Attacks: Mantids have two claw that function as natural attacks identical to scythes (1d6, can make trip attacks).  One claw is primary, the other secondary (-5).  They can wield normal weapons at the same time (they have four arms), though they suffer normal penalties for multiweapon fighting if they do so.

Carnivorous: Mantids can only digest meat.

Mantids still get a Background trait but do not receive an additional trait.

Favoured Class: Weapon Master

Automatic Languages: Bugspeak, Shambles

LA +1

Zerda

Small size

Base speed 30 ft.

Low Light Vision (4x)

+2 Dexterity, -2 Strength, -2 Intelligence

Natural Weapons: Bite 1d4 and two claws 1d3 each (one primary, one secondary).

Heat Endurance: +4 on Fortitude saves versus hot weather.

+4 Listen

+2 Move Silently, Spot, Survival

Zerda still get a Background trait but do not receive an additional trait.

Favoured Class: Harrier

Automatic Languages: Zerda; most zerda know enough Shambles to piece a sentence or two together

Leechkin

+2 Strength, -4 Charisma - Leechkin are surprisingly powerful for such spindly creatures, but they lack essential drive or ambition.

Base speed 20 ft.  Leechkin are generally sluggish.

Leechkin have the aquatic subtype.

+2 Hide in swampy vegetation.

+4 Swim.

Amphibious: Leechkin are fully amphibious and can breathe both water and air.  They do not have  a Swim speed, however,

Naturals Weapons: Two bites for 1d4 each (one primary, one secondary).

Blood Drain (Ex): A leechkin can suck blood from a living victim with its mouths by making a successful grapple check. If it pins the foe, it drains blood, dealing 1d2 point of Constitution drain each round the pin is maintained. On each such successful attack, the leechkin gains temporary hit points equal to the amount of Constitution it drained.

Haematophage: Leechkin only consume blood.  They follow the normal rules for thirst, but in addition to taking subdual damage they must make a Will save (DC 10 +1 per previous check) every hour or attack the nearest non-leechkin.  They do not get fatigued from thirst; however they do gain a temporary +2 Strength and +2 Constitution until they feed, and their base speed doubles (40 ft.).

Leechkin can smell blood.  This functions like the Scent ability, but only on creatures with warm blood (i.e. a leechkin could sense a living human but not a shade).

Leechkin do not earn traits - they are too apathetic.

Favoured Class: Berserker

Automatic Languages: Shambles, Leechdance

Jatayi

Base speed 30 ft., Fly 30 ft. (average)

Low Light Vision (x4) '" can also perceive magnetic fields

Jatayi always take the Desert Born Background trait and the Eidetic Memory trait, but don't get additional traits.

Necrophagic: Jatayi only eating decomposing meat.

+2 Perform: Jatayi are natural performers, particularly when it comes to songs and stories.

Favoured Class: Bard.  Jatayi are the only race with a Bardic tradition.  Jatayi Bards are usually called Fablers.

Automatic Languages: Jatayi, Shambles

LA: +1

Anthropophagoi

+2 Wisdom, -2 Charisma '" Anthropophagoi are resistant to mind-influencing effects (likely an adaptation due to constant ghostgrass exposure), but lack social graces.

Base speed 30 ft.

-4 Listen.

+2 Hide, Move Silently, and Survival.

Unusual Anatomy: Because of their strange body shapes anthropophagoi have to wear specially made armour.  If they don regular armour they are unable to see, hear, or smell.

Carnivorous: Anthropophagoi can only digest meat.

Shriek: Anthropophagoi can shriek hideously as a standard action.  All enemies within 60 ft. of the anthropophagus must make a Fear save (DC 10 + the anthropophagus' level) or be Shaken (-2 on attack rolls, saving throws, skills checks, and ability checks).

Natural Weapon: Bite 1d6.

Witch-Doctors: Anthropophagoi cast using Wisdom rather than Intelligence as their base attribute.  They cannot cast Abjuration spells or Evocation spells but can prepare an additional Necromancy spell per spell level per day, and get a +2 to Witchcraft checks to learn Necromancy spells.

Anthropophagoi always take the Savage Appearance trait and the Bloodthirsty trait but receive no other traits.

Favoured Class: Berserker.  Many anthropophagoi who multiclass become Berserker/Hunters.

Automatic Languages: Anthropophagoi (sign language).


The standard Iron Heroes classes are all available.  The spellcasting class is the Wizard (renamed Witch).  Instead of summoning a typical familiar the Witch can either craft a servitor (treat as a human, medium zombie), bind a demon with a silver chain (treat as a quasit or an imp), or create an alchemical homunculus (as in the MM).  All spells, including those from other spell lists (druid, cleric, etc), are available, save those that refer to alignment.  However, players are required to rename their spells, and are encouraged to add their own cosmetic descriptions as well.

New Class

To create the Witch class, just take the Wizard (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/classes/sorcererWizard.htm) and add on the Feat Masteries and Defense Bonuses of the Arcanist. The Witch also gets the Arcanist's 1d4+2 HD per level!

Also, if desired, Scribe Scroll can be swapped out for Craft Eldritch Tattoo!

Here are the custom familiars:

Medium Zombie, called a servitor - +2 Fortitude Saves
Quasit or Imp (treat as a generic "demon" familiar, like those of the magisters of Skein) - +3 Knowledge (demonology) checks
Fiendish Animal (again, a demonic familiar - feel free to customize it cosmetically) - +3 Knowledge (demonology) checks
Homunculus, as in the MM (an alchemical construct) - +3 Craft (Alchemy) checks

(http://img814.imageshack.us/img814/5268/arcanistclassfeaturesan.jpg)

(http://img816.imageshack.us/img816/6318/archerclassfeaturesandm.jpg)

GUNFIGHTER

Hit Die: 1d4+4/level

SKILL GROUPS

Gunfighters learn to fight on the run, and their long hours of practice with ranged weapons hone their senses to a fine edge. They gain access to the Agility, Athletics, and Perception skill groups and may purchase skills from other groups as normal. A Gunfighter needs good Spot and Listen skill ranks to notice enemies before they can draw too close. Agility and Athletics allow her to escape from dangerous situations or reach spots that offer excellent sniping opportunities.

Skill Points at 1st Level: (4 + Intelligence modifier) x4
Skill Points at Each Additional Level: 4 + Intelligence modifier

FEATS
Gunfighters focus on ranged combat and, as such, they gain excellent mastery with Projectile feats. They gain average mastery with Defense feats, as they learn to avoid blows and flee melee for a safe firing position. They gain some mastery in Finesse, too'"when they must fight in melee, they generally prefer light weapons that take advantage of their excellent agility.

CLASS FEATURES
The Gunfighter's class abilities revolve around access to the aim token pool. The aim pool represents a Gunfighter's genius at locking onto one target, taking careful aim, and firing a single dart with incredible precision. A skilled Gunfighter not only hits her target, she strikes him at the exact point she chooses.

Weapon and Armor Proficiency: Gunfighters are proficient with all simple weapons, all firearms, and light armor. As a Gunfighter, you trained to hit opponents from a distance. You studied melee combat only as a tactic of last resort.

Ranged Base Attack Bonus: Gunfighters focus much of their
training on firearms.  When using a pistol or long arm, use the ranged base attack bonus on the Gunfighter Class Features and Mastery table (see page 33). When armed with any other sort of weapon, use the normal base attack bonus. If you take levels of other classes, add the ranged base attack bonus to your other class' base attack bonus to determine your modifier when using projectile and thrown weapons. Add in the Gunfighter's normal base attack bonus for all other circumstances.

Aim Pool: At the start of your turn, you may designate a single opponent that you can see (a creature or object) as the target of your aim token pool. You earn 1 aim token against him if you spend a move action doing nothing but aiming at him. You earn 2 aim tokens if you spend a standard action doing nothing but aiming at him. You earn 4 aim tokens if you spend a full-round action drawing a bead on him, doing nothing but aiming. In addition, you automatically earn an additional aim token if your target did not move between your last action and your current one. You can take aim against a motionless enemy with ease. You gain this token at the start of your action. You spend aim tokens to power various Gunfighter class abilities, described below. The longer you aim, the better your shot. In other words, if you spend more aim tokens on an attack, it garners more powerful effects.

You keep building up aim tokens until you select a different opponent as the target for your aim pool. You can never have more tokens than 10 + your level in a pool at once. You lose any extra tokens you build up above this limit. At some point, additional aiming fails to improve your accuracy. When you select a new foe as your target, you lose the aim tokens you have built up and must start accruing them again. Aim tokens that go unspent upon a particular target grant you no special benefits; you must discard them and may begin accumulating new tokens against a different target. You cannot carry aim token pools against more than one target at the same time.

Action Spent Aim Tokens
Aiming Gained
Move 1
Standard 2
Full-round 4
Opponent remains still 1

Deadeye Shot: Each time you gain deadeye shot (at 1st, 3rd, 5th, 7th, and 9th levels), you select a new ability from those listed below. Each deadeye shot ability costs a number of aim tokens to use. You spend aim tokens as a free action and apply the effects to the shots you take for the rest of your turn. You can complete this free action before taking a shot, but you cannot use aim tokens to benefit more than one deadeye shot ability in a given attack. Unless otherwise stated, a deadeye shot ability costs 1 aim token to use. You can spend more than one aim token on a single ability to gain its benefits multiple times. For example, if you spend 2 tokens on distant shot, you reduce the range penalty to your attacks by 4. You cannot reduce a penalty beyond 0 to turn it into a bonus. Where noted below, certain abilities are not available to use more than once in a single attack. Unless otherwise stated, a deadeye shot inflicts normal damage in addition to the effect described below. You can gain the benefits of deadeye shot abilities only against the target of your aim pool.

Vital Shot You can spend two aim tokens to add 1d6 to your damage roll. In the case of a critical hit, the extra damage is not multiplied. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack, but it can be combined with Deadly Shot or other abilities that deal additional damage.

Accurate Shot: You take aim at the smallest bit of an exposed foe, hitting him despite cover. Accurate shot reduces your opponent's defense bonus due to cover by 2 points for each token spent. You cannot reduce the defense bonus of an opponent who enjoys full cover from you if that cover blocks your line of sight to him.

Armor Piercing Shot: You take aim at a chink in your opponent's armor, hoping to overcome his defenses by hitting a poorly defended spot. Your shot inflicts a '"1 penalty to your foe's damage reduction for each token spent. However, you
cannot reduce the damage reduction below 0.

Deadly Shot: You target a particularly sensitive or vulnerable area on your opponent's body, such as the eyes. By spending 2 aim tokens, your attack grants you a bonus to damage equal to half your Dexterity bonus. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Disrupting Shot: You shoot an arrow at an opponent's hand, weapon, talon, or paw to disrupt his attacks. Rather than inflict damage, you cause him to suffer a '"1 penalty to his attacks until the end of his next action for each token spent, unless he succeeds in a Fortitude save (DC equal to your attack's result).

Distant Shot: Even at long range, your shots hit with uncanny accuracy. You reduce the range penalty to your attacks by 2 points per token spent.

Hamstring Shot: To use this ability, ready an action to fire at your target when he moves. If your readied attack hits, your opponent must succeed at a Fortitude save (DC 10 + half your Gunfighter level + number of tokens spent on this shot) or move at half his normal speed until the end of his current action.

Unerring Shot: Before you resolve your attack, your opponent must attempt a Reflex save (DC 10 + half your Gunfighter level + number of tokens spent on this attack). If his save fails, he loses his active bonus to defense against your next shot. This ability does not apply to subsequent shots.

Bonus Feats: At 2nd, 6th, 10th, 14th, and 18th levels, you gain a bonus feat that must come from the Projectile feat category. Otherwise, you can spend this selection on any feat of your choice, provided that you meet its mastery requirements. Bonus feats are in addition to the feat a character gets at every even-numbered level.

Improved Aim Pool: You can now fill your aim pool faster than before, as you quickly assess a target and prepare to fire; see the table below for the improved token values for time spent aiming. Note that you can take a free action to aim only once per round.

Action Spent Aim Tokens
Aiming Gained
Free 1
Move 2
Standard 3
Full-round 4
Opponent remains still 2

Sniper Shot: Each time you gain sniper shot (at 11th, 13th, and 15th levels), you may select one of the abilities described below or one of the deadeye shot abilities above. You spend your aim tokens on sniper shots in the manner described for deadeye shot abilities. You may spend tokens on both a deadeye shot and sniper shot ability at the same time.

Improved Vital Shot: You can spend two aim tokens to add 2d6 to your damage roll. In the case of a critical hit, the extra damage is not multiplied. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack, but it can be combined with Deadly Shot or other abilities that deal additional damage.

Critical Shot: If you take careful aim against an opponent, you can make a deadly shot to his eyes, throat, or other vulnerable spot. With some luck, you can strike a foe dead in
one shot. Using this ability requires an expenditure of 8 aim tokens. Make a single attack as a full-round action. If your attack succeeds, you automatically cause a critical hit. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Daunting Shot: You fire an arrow that nicks a creature's ear, creases his skull, sticks directly in the center of his coat of arms, or otherwise demonstrates your uncanny accuracy. Your target must make a Will save (DC 10 + half your Gunfighter level + the number of aim tokens spent) or become shaken for 2d4 rounds. You cannot use this ability to impose a condition worse than 'shaken' upon a creature.

Flanked Shot: When your target is flanked or denied his active bonus to defense, you can inflict extra damage if you are within 30 feet of him. For every 2 aim tokens spent, your
attack causes +1d6 points of damage. Do not multiply this damage on a critical hit. Creatures immune to criticals are also immune to this ability.

Sundering Shot: You can shoot small items off a creature's body, cut belts, and destroy similar little items. By spending 4 aim tokens, you may make an attack against a single item carried by your target; the item must have a hardness of 2 or lower. Your shot suffers a '"4 penalty. On a success, you damage the item as normal. You can choose to damage an item directly, thus possibly destroying it, or sever a belt or pouch to knock it to the ground at the target's feet. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Volley Shot: You use your first shot to guide the rest of your attacks as part of a full-attack action. If your first arrow strikes home, the rest will almost invariably follow into the target. If it misses, your arrows hit nothing but air. Before making your attack, spend 4 aim tokens. Roll a single attack against your opponent as normal. For your iterative attacks (the extra attacks you gain from having a high base attack bonus), use the following method to determine whether they hit: Subtract 3 points from the first attack's result. This total is the result for your second arrow. Subtract another 3 (6 total) for the third arrow's result, and 3 more (9 total) for the fourth arrow's result. Use this method in place of rolling your attacks and using your iterative attack bonuses. When using a volley shot, you cannot employ feats that grant you additional attacks. You may use this ability only once on a given attack.

Vulnerable Shot: To use this ability, you must spend 2 aim tokens and ready a ranged attack for when your target suffers
damage from any other source. Your target loses his active bonus to defense against your readied attack. In addition, you inflict bonus damage equal to your Dexterity bonus. You may use vulnerable shot only once on a given attack.

Supreme Aim Pool: As with the improved aim pool ability, above, you gain even more tokens for spending actions to aim, as shown in the following table.
Action Spent Aim Tokens
Aiming Gained
Free 2
Move 4
Standard 6
Full-round 8
Opponent remains still 4

Killing Shot: Each time you gain a killing shot (at 17th and 19th levels), you can select one of the abilities described below or one of the deadeye or sniper shot abilities above. You spend aim tokens on killing shots in the manner described for deadeye shot abilities. You may spend tokens on a deadeye, sniper, and killing shot ability at the same time.

Death Shot: You put an arrow into a foe's eye, skewer his throat, or pierce his heart. Using this ability requires an initial expenditure of 8 aim tokens. Then you must spend additional tokens to establish this attack's Fortitude save Difficulty Class (DC 10 + half your Gunfighter level + number of additional tokens spent). Make a single ranged attack as a full-round action. If you hit and inflict damage, your target must succeed at the Fortitude save described above or immediately fall to '"1 hit points. This ability remains a favorite of snipers and others who can hide and observe a target for several minutes. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Improved Deadly Shot: By spending 2 aim tokens, you gain a bonus to damage equal to your Dexterity bonus on all your ranged attacks against your target. This bonus lasts until your next action. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Power Shot: You may spend 2 aim tokens to use your ranged weapon as a melee weapon against your chosen target. You threaten him if he is within your natural reach. You do not provoke attacks of opportunity for making ranged attacks against him while he is within your natural reach. You gain double your Strength bonus to damage on shots made in this manner if you wield a weapon that allows any Strength bonus to damage. You gain this benefit even if your bow normally has a cap on the bonus damage. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Ranged Disarm: You fire an arrow to knock a weapon from an opponent's hand. Spend 4 aim tokens and make a single attack as a standard action; your foe makes an opposed attack. If your result is higher, you knock his weapon to the ground in his current space. The target gains a +4 bonus if his weapon is two-handed. If his weapon is larger than yours, he gains an additional +4 bonus for each size category of difference between his weapon and yours. You do not gain a benefit if you wield a larger weapon. You cannot use this ability more than once on a given attack.

Ranged Trip: As a normal attack, you may spend at least 4 aim tokens to attempt to trip a target. Resolve your attack as normal. If you hit and inflict damage, your target must succeed at a Reflex save (DC 10 + half your Gunfighter level + number
of tokens spent) or be knocked prone. He gains the benefits of being prone (and the drawbacks, if applicable) against the rest of your attacks on your action.

Legendary Shot: The legendary shot, gained at 20th level, is the stuff of epic tales. It is the ultimate expression of the Gunfighter's talents, and those who witness these demonstrations of supreme mastery rarely forget them. To attempt a legendary shot, you must spend 10 aim tokens before your attack. You then may fire at your chosen target with one of the following special benefits:
'¢ All of your shots for the rest of your action hit, as long as you have line of sight to your target. Do not roll to resolve your attacks.
'¢ Any shot that hits automatically inflicts maximum damage. Treat all damage dice rolled as maximum values.
'¢ You may take a single shot at an opponent who is out of your line of sight by banking and ricocheting shots. You suffer a '"4 penalty to all your attacks, and your opponent must have been in your line of sight on your previous action. This attack assumes that a clear, physical path exists between you and your target.
'¢ You may attack your target at up to double your weapon's maximum range without range penalties. Choose one benefit from the list above; you cannot spend tokens to gain more than one of them at the same time. You may combine a deadeye, sniper, or killing shot ability with a legendary shot.

New Traits

Trait: Fleshy (Physical)
You are a graftpunk, swapping your own body parts for alien flesh.
Mechanics: You begin with one free graft worth 1000 obeloi or less.  

New Feats

Weapon Proficiency: Firearms

Prerequisites: None.

Benefit:You are proficient with firearms.

Multiweapon Fighting [Finesse, Power]

Prerequisites: Dex 13, three or more hands.

Benefit: Penalties for fighting with multiple weapons are reduced by 2 with the primary hand and reduced by 6 with off hands.

Normal: A creature without this feat takes a -6 penalty on attacks made with its primary hand and a -10 penalty on attacks made with its off hands. (It has one primary hand, and all the others are off hands.) See Two-Weapon Fighting.

Special

This feat replaces the Two-Weapon Fighting feat for creatures with more than two arms.

Expanded Mastery: 2. When wielding a double weapon or two or more weapons (not including natural weapons or unarmed strikes), you enjoy a +1 shield (passive) bonus to your defense. When you are fighting defensively or using the full defense action, this shield bonus increases to +2.

Expanded Mastery: 3. You can distract an opponent with one of your off-hand weapons or one end of your double weapon. If you use a full attack action but do not use that weapon or end of your double weapon to attack, you gain a +2 bonus to attacks against one opponent you threaten. You gain this benefit until the end of your current action.

Expanded Mastery: 4. In addition to the standard extra attacks you get with off-hand weapons, you get a single second attack with one off-hand weapon, albeit at a '"5 penalty.

Expanded Mastery: 5. If you score a critical hit with one of your weapons, you increase the critical threat range for your other weapon by 1. As your first attack drives into your foe, you use the leverage of the impact to yank him into a precarious position.

Expanded Mastery: 6. When you fight with multiple weapons or with double weapons, you cannot be flanked. You use both ends of your weapon, or several weapons, to ward off attacks from multiple directions.

Expanded Mastery: 7. You get a third attack with one of your offhand weapons, albeit at a '"10 penalty. You must also have the expanded mastery 4 ability to select this expanded feat option.

Expanded Mastery: 8. You can make a special rend attack with your two weapons. If you strike an opponent at least once with several weapons, or with both ends of a double weapon, you inflict additional rending damage equal to your primary weapon's damage plus double your Strength bonus. When you hit your opponent with both attacks, you rip him apart with several weapons at once.

Expanded Mastery: 9. When you use the charge action or a standard attack, you gain all of your off-hand attacks with a second weapon or the second end of your double weapon.

Expanded Mastery: 10. When you use a full attack action, you confuse your opponent with a flurry of attacks from your weapon. For each one that hits, you gain a +1 bonus to your remaining attacks. This bonus, which stacks with each successful hit, lasts until the end of your current action.

Graft Flesh (Item Creation) - Lore, Base Mastery 1

Prerequisites: Craft (Alchemy) 6 ranks, Heal 6 ranks, Craft (Tailor) 6 ranks, Caster level 1st

Benefits: You can graft alien flesh using eldritch techniques and good old fashioned stitches.  Grafts take one hour per 100 obeloi in its price and require a Craft (Tailor) check of DC 10 +1 for every 1000 obeloi in its price.  If you succeed, the graft is complete; if you fail, the process has failed.  If fail by more than 5, the raw materials are lost.  There is no XP cost (XP costs are stupid).

Expanded Mastery 2: You no longer spoil the raw materials if you fail a graft check.

Expanded Mastery 3: Grafts now take only a half hour per 100 obeloi.

Craft Eldritch Tattoo - Lore, Base Mastery 1

Prerequisite: Caster level 1st

Benefit: You can create an arcane tattoo of any spell that you know. Creating the tattoo takes one hour for each 100 obeloi in its base price. The base price of a tattoo is its spell level × its caster level × 50 obeloi. To create the tattoo, use up raw materials costing one-half of this base price.  There is no XP cost (XP costs are very silly).

Eldritch tattoos function exactly like scrolls, and can be used only by those "wearing" the tattoo.  However, no spellcraft check/read magic spell is necessary.  Following a tattoo's use, it fades from the user's flesh.  A medium sized indidivudal can have up to 13 tattoos at any one time: 2 on each limb, 2 on their back and chest, and one on their face or neck.

Expanded Mastery 2: Your tattoos can now be crafted as permanent for spell level × its caster level × 500 obeloi.  Their powers are usable once per day.

Cast Glyph Bullet - Base Mastery 1, Projectile

Prerequisites: Weapon Proficiency (Firearms), Cast 3rd, Craft (Gunsmith) 6 ranks

When firing a glpyh-cast bullet you can, as a free action, channel a spell into the bullet. If the bullet hits its target, it does an additional +1d6 force damage per level of the spell channeled into the bullet.  Cantrips only add +1d3 damage.

Casting glyph bullets is a very intensive process, requiring molten and powdered metals and meticulous spellwork. Casting glyph bullets requires a properly equipped gunner's kit and the appropriate skill check (Craft (Gunsmith)). The material cost, in addition to the standard bullet cost, is 1 obelus for each glyph-cast bullet, which are regularly lead and gold shavings or dust'"indispensable for its conductive properties. Once the lead is liquefied, the gold is sprinkled into the molten metal and, as the rounds cool, manifests as flecks. Thereupon the caster etches his signature mark '" a glyph'" with gold shavings onto the bullet. This mark acts as the receiving point for the caster`s spells, and the flecks carry the spell throughout the bullet.

Casters normally are able to cast and etch 5 bullets per hour, but the cost is exacting and requires focus. Every hour after the first, a caster must make a Concentration check (DC 12). If the check fails,the caster is fatigued and must wait an hour before attempting to cast more bullets. Magnifying glasses and superior etching tools can lower this DC.

Etching the very precise runes is meticulous, especially difficult on the eyes even under the best lighting. A bleary eyed crafter takes a temporary penalty of -1 to all attacks per hour spent casting glyph bullets. These points are recovered at a rate of 1 point every hour provided the caster is no longer etching glyphs.

Expanded Mastery 2: You no longer need to make Concentration checks while crafting bullets.

Expanded Mastery 3: the gun crafter's glyph-cast bullets are treated as having a +1 enhancement bonus when spell levels are channeled into the bullet, allowing it to overcome resistances to non-magical weapons, as well as dealing the additional damage bonus.

Expanded Mastery 4: You are no longer bleary-eyed after crafting bullets.

Expanded Mastery 5: The enhancement bonus is increased to +2.  This can only be selected if you have Expanded Mastery 3.

Expanded Mastery 6: You can craft 10 bullets per hour.

Expanded Mastery 7: The enhancement bonus is increased to +3.  This can only be selected if you have Expanded Mastery 5.

Expanded Mastery 8: You can craft 20 bullets per hour.   This can only be selected if you have Expanded Mastery 6.

Expanded Mastery 9: The enhancement bonus is increased to +4.   This can only be selected if you have Expanded Mastery 7.

Expanded Mastery 9: The enhancement bonus is increased to +5.   This can only be selected if you have Expanded Mastery 9.

Grafts

Chitin Plates: Scavenged from the corpse of some monstrous insect, these plates are fused into your flesh, giving you a rigid exoskeleton.  This provides a Passive Defence Bonus without a check penalty, similar to a buckler; this stacks with a shield.
1000 obeloi (+1), 4,000 obeloi (+2), 9,000 obeloi (+3), 16,000 obeloi (+4), 25 0000 obeloi (+5), 36 000 obeloi (+6)

Squamous Skin: Your fragile skin is replaced with a thick layer of scales or other resilient hide.  This provides Damage Reduction and has no check penalty; this stacks with armour.
1000 obeloi (1/magic), 4,000 obeloi (1d2/magic), 9,000 obeloi (1d3/magic), 16,000 obeloi (1d3/magic), 25 0000 obeloi (1d6/magic), 36 000 obeloi (1d8/magic)

Fangs: Wrenched from the mouth of a dog, big cat, crocodile, or some toothy abomination, these fangs replace your regular teeth.  You gain a bite attack as a natural attack.
500 obeloi (1d2), 750 obeloi (1d3), 1000 obeloi (1d4), 3000 obeloi (1d6), 6000 obeloi (1d8)

Clawed Hand: One of your hands is replaced with that of a clawed beast of some description.  This provides you with a single natural Claw attack.
500 obeloi (1d2), 750 obeloi (1d3), 1000 obeloi (1d4), 3000 obeloi (1d6), 6000 obeloi (1d8)

Antitoxin Gland: Drawn from the innards of some venomous creature, this small organ can be discretely implanted and hooked up to the bloodstream.  It provides a bonus to Fortitude saves versus poisons.
500 obeloi (+1), 1000 obeloi (+2), 4000 obeloi (+3), 9000 obeloi (+4), 16000 obeloi (+5)

Tentacle: Harvested from one of the many aqueous horrors of the Sallow Seas or the Fevered Ocean or else culled from something even stranger, this graft usually replaces a limb with a suckered tentacles, though for an additional charge it can be sutured on in addition to other limbs.  Treat the tentacle as a natural weapon dealing 1d3 damage.  It is fully prehensile.
750 obeloi (extra arm version is 2750 obeloi)

Extra Limb: Wrenched from the socket of one of the more humanoid denizens of the Cadaverous Earth, this extra limb is a must for any fleshy looking to multitask.  The limb counts as an extra off hand.  To wield more than two weapons at once with reduced penalties, take the multiweapon fighting feat.
2250 obeloi

Weapon Graft: While most grafts are living tissue attached to another living body, a weapon graft is exactly what the name suggests: a normal, masterwork, or magic melee weapon grafted onto the hand so it is never unarmed. The weapon actually becomes a natural weapon, though its other properties are unchanged. The grafted creature receives a +1 bonus on all attack and damage rolls with the weapon, as long as it is proficient with the weapon. However, it cannot use the hand with the graft for anything but combat, and it takes a '"2 penalty on all skill checks requiring the use of hands (if it only has one additional hand).
Weapon price + 1,000 obeloi  (extra arm version is 3000 obeloi)

Firearms

Pistols

Flintlock Pistol: 2d4/x3, Range 10 ft., Single Shot (1), Medium Size, 200 obeloi

Blunderbuss Pistol: 2d8/x3, Range 5 ft., Single   Shot (1), Medium Size, 6 lb, 175 obeloi

Four-barrelled Pistol:   2d4/x3, Range:   15 ft.,   Single Shot (4),   Medium Size,   3 lb,   375 obeloi

Wheellock Duelling Pistol:   2d6/x3   20 ft.,   Single Shot (1),   Medium Size,   3 lb,   300 obeloi

Pepperbox:   2d4/x3, Range:   15 ft.,   Single   Shot (8), Small Size,   2 lb,   500 obeloi

Revolver:   2d6/x3, Range: 15 ft.,   Single   Shot (6), Medium Size,   3 lb,   650 obeloi

Long Arms

Flintlock Musket:   2d8/x3, Range: 30 ft.,   Single Shot (1),   Large   Size, 12 lb,   400 obeloi

Blunderbuss:   2d10/x3   5 ft., Range: 5 ft.   Single   Shot (1), Large Size,   12 lb,   350 obeloi

Repeating Rifle:   2d10/x3, Range:   70 ft.   Single   Shot (6), Large Size, 10 lb,   600 obeloi

RESERVE POINTS
Reserve points represent your resiliency, toughness, and willpower. Since hit point damage has no effect on characters until they reach 0, most effects that damage you cause no more than superficial bleeding, minor scrapes, and bruises. While these injuries can prove life threatening if you sustain many of them in a short period, you can rally your strength quickly if you have time to rest. Reserve points represent your capacity to recharge your energy and shrug off the effects of minor injuries. You have reserve points equal to your maximum hit points. Whenever you engage in nonstrenuous activity, you may choose to convert 1 reserve point to heal 1 hit point per minute. Remember that whenever you receive healing, you heal an amount of nonlethal damage equal to the hit point damage at the same time. During these minutes, you catch your breath, the pain from a twisted ankle fades, or a cut stops bleeding and slowly starts to heal. You do not gain reserve-point healing while engaged in combat or undertaking other strenuous actions such as climbing a wall or running a long distance. If you have suffered nonlethal damage, you may use 1 reserve point to heal 4 points of nonlethal damage. When you choose this option, you do not heal 1 hit point with that reserve point, only nonlethal damage. A successful Heal skill check to treat wounds as described in Chapter Four restores a number of reserve points to your pool equal to the healer's number of ranks in Heal. After a successful Heal check to offer long-term care, you recover reserve points at twice the normal rate.

REPLENISHING RESERVE POINTS
Any healing you receive above and beyond your maximum hit points replenishes your reserve point pool. You also regain reserve points via rest and relaxation. If you rest eight hours straight during a day, you regain reserve points equal to your Constitution score + your level. If you spend a full day doing nothing but resting, you regain reserve points equal to double your Constitution score + your level. You do not regain reserve points if your hit points are at or below 0.

CONSTITUTION CHANGES
If your Constitution score goes up or down, your reserve points go up or down just like your hit points. If your reserve points drop below 0, you suffer no additional effects or damage. You simply do not have any reserve points to spend on healing yourself.

RESERVE POINTS IN THE GAME
Reserve points make it possible for characters to soak up a fair amount of damage in combat without worrying about healing. Reserve points work too slowly to provide relief during a battle, making a character's maximum hit points as important as ever. However, once a fight ends, injured characters can quickly restore themselves to maximum hit points. And even with this healing, a series of tough encounters can prove deadly. As a character's reserve points drop to 0, he loses the ability to boost his hit points between fights. Players must pay careful attention to their reserve pools to avoid spending their strength before an important battle. More importantly, reserve points have little effect on the lethality of a given encounter. They work too slowly to provide any relief during a battle. Instead, they make it possible to run three or four deadly fights in the course of a day without the action grinding to a halt as the PCs seek out healing. Reserve points don't make the current fight any less lethal. Instead, they create a cushion that causes the current battle to have less of an impact on the party's chances in the next fight.

WHO HAS RESERVE POINTS?
Only characters and creatures with levels in the Iron Heroes core classes gain access to a reserve pool, unless otherwise noted in a monster or NPC class' description. The NPC classes'"warrior, adept, commoner, and others'"do not gain access to reserve points, and neither do most monsters that lack class levels. Unless a creature's description specifically lists a reserve point total, it does not have one.

COMBAT CHALLENGES
A skilled weapon master slashes at a gray ogre's eyes, drawing
blood that temporarily blinds it. If the master's aim were the
slightest bit off, his attack might have missed. An armiger shrugs
off his opponent's blows, allowing his armor to absorb the hits
as he prepares to deliver the killing strike. In these situations, a
warrior accepts a level of risk in return for a potential reward.
Combat challenges work a lot like the skill challenges presented
in Chapter Four. In return for a penalty to your attack
or defense, you gain a bonus to your actions or inflict a
penalty on your foe. Normally, this penalty is '"2 to either
your attacks or defense, but in some cases it is steeper. In
return for this penalty, your attack gains an additional effect,
such as a bonus to damage. A defensive challenge might give
you the option to move faster or provide a bonus to a skill
check. Attack challenges increase the risk that your strike
may miss. Defensive challenges lower your defense, making
you more vulnerable to your foe's attacks.

ACCEPTING A CHALLENGE
You can take on one attack challenge and one defensive challenge
per round. You must state that you wish to accept an
attack challenge at the beginning of your turn, before you take
either your move or standard action. You could not move,
draw an attack of opportunity, and decide to accept a defensive
challenge before striking. Even if you do not gain any of
the benefits of the challenges, you still suffer the penalties.
These penalties last until the start of your next action, though
all of your attacks gain their benefits. An attack challenge's
penalties and benefits apply to any attacks of opportunity you
make, in addition to your normal attacks. Note, however, that
many of these effects cause named penalties. Be sure that
their effects stack depending on their type. (For more on
stacking effects, see the sidebar on page 179.)
Defensive challenges work a little differently than attack
challenges. To gain a defensive challenge's benefits, you first
must expose yourself to the risk associated with it. You can
use a defensive challenge only if at least one opponent
threatens you. You gain its benefits only to melee attacks.
When making a reckless strike, you allow an opponent to
take an easy shot at you. In return, you throw your full
weight behind a strike and batter aside his defenses.
If you want to use a defensive challenge, you must declare
your intention during your action. You then suffer the
appropriate penalty to your defense until your next action.
On that action, you gain the challenge's benefits. This stricture
ensures that a character suffers exposure to the challenge's
drawbacks. From a realism standpoint, it makes sense
that you would have to drop you guard before gaining the
benefits offered by a defensive challenge.
Each challenge provides a different benefit. The minimum
drawback you can suffer is a '"2 penalty to defense or
attacks, though some grant you greater benefits in return
for a stiffer penalty.

ATTACK CHALLENGES
Attack challenges break down into three categories based on
the penalty they levy. Lesser attack challenges cause a '"2 attack
penalty, moderate ones inflict a '"4 penalty, and major ones
carry a '"6 modifier. Each category presents successively
greater benefits, as befits the penalties they cause. Unless
otherwise noted, an attack must hit and inflict damage (in
other words, your damage beats the target's damage reduction)
in order to grant you the challenge's benefit.
You only gain an attack challenge's benefits if you make an
attack during your action. If you do not attack, you gain neither
the benefits nor the drawbacks levied by the challenge.
Following are examples of attack challenges you can accept.

LESSER ATTACK CHALLENGES ('"2)

Bonus Damage: You make a wild swing at your opponent,
one that compensates for its inaccuracy with raw power. You
gain a +1 bonus to melee damage.

Fight Defensively: You keep back from your opponent,
making tentative strikes as you focus on defense. You gain
a +1 active bonus to defense.

Hamper Movement: You tangle your opponent's legs,
slash at his thighs, or otherwise make it tough for him to
move. He suffers a '"1 square injury penalty to movement
for 1 round.

MODERATE ATTACK CHALLENGES ('"4)
Force Movement: You drive your foe back with a mighty
blow, forcing him to cede ground in the face of your advance.
Your target must move one square to allow you to move into
at least one square that he occupied. Your opponent chooses
where he wants to move. If all the available spaces present
any sort of physical or environmental threat, such as a fire or
a pit, he does not have to move. You can force an opponent
to move only once per round, and you do not gain this benefit
on attacks that are not made as part of your standard or
full-round action. For example, you do not gain this benefit
on attacks of opportunity.

Improved Bonus Damage: As described above for the
bonus damage lesser attack challenge, except you gain a
+3 bonus to damage.

Improved Fight Defensively: You make only a few careful
swipes at your foe, preferring instead to concentrate on parrying.
You gain a +2 active bonus to defense.

Wild Flurry: You gain an additional, highly inaccurate
attack. You strike one extra time without the benefits of your
base attack bonus and Strength or Dexterity bonus to attacks
and damage. Your other bonuses apply as normal, as does
the challenge penalty. You may use this option as part of a
standard or full-round action.

MAJOR ATTACK CHALLENGES ('"6)

Improved Force Movement: As described for the force
movement moderate attack challenge above, except you
choose where your opponent moves. If you attempt to force
him into a square that would inflict damage to him, such as a
burning fire or a pit, your target may attempt a Reflex save
(DC 10 + half your base attack bonus) to cancel the movement.
In the event of a successful saving throw, your target
does not move and you cannot move him. Additional attacks
against him lose the benefits of this challenge until your
next action.

Improved Wild Flurry: As above for wild flurry, except you
gain the benefit of your Strength or Dexterity bonus to your
attack and damage, if applicable.

Superior Bonus Damage: As the bonus damage lesser
attack challenge, except you gain a +6 bonus to damage.

DEFENSE CHALLENGES
Defense challenges, like attack challenges, break down into
three categories based on the penalty they levy. Lesser defense
challenges cause a '"2 defense penalty, moderate ones inflict a '"4
penalty, and major ones carry a '"6 modifier. Each category presents
successively greater benefits, as befits the penalties they
cause. Remember, you only gain the benefits of a defensive
challenge after you have accepted its penalties for 1 round.

LESSER DEFENSE CHALLENGES ('"2)

Defensive Roll: You roll with each hit you suffer, making
yourself easier to strike but harder to injure. You gain a +1
bonus on all damage reduction checks for armor. This option
works best against highly skilled opponents who have an
excellent chance to hit you.

Reckless Strike: You drop your guard to focus solely on
hitting and injuring your opponent. You gain either a +2
bonus to damage or a +1 bonus to attacks for 1 round after
accepting this challenge.

Steely Focus: You set aside the chaos and din around you
to focus on an action. You gain a +2 bonus to a single skill
or ability check of your choice as you lower your defenses to
complete the task before you. You must complete this check
on your next action after taking on this challenge.

MODERATE DEFENSE CHALLENGES ('"4)

Heedless Strike: You pay little mind to your defenses as
you leap forward to attack. You gain either a +4 bonus to
damage or a +2 bonus to attacks for 1 round after accepting
this challenge.

Hustle: You press ahead, reducing your defenses in favor
of covering ground. You gain a +1 square (5-foot) bonus
to speed. This bonus applies to your base walking speed.
Determine other movement modes, such as climbing, based
on your improved speed.

Improved Defensive Roll: As for the defensive roll lesser
defense challenge, except you gain a +2 bonus to damage
reduction checks.

Improved Steely Focus: As for the steely focus lesser
defense challenge, except you gain a +4 bonus to your skill
or ability check.

Lashing Strike: You gain the ability to make an additional
attack of opportunity on the round after you accept this challenge.
This extra attack works just like any other attack of
opportunity'"you gain no special ability to make multiple
attacks of opportunity against a single target, for instance.

MAJOR DEFENSE CHALLENGES ('"6)

Focused Determination: You reduce your defenses to buy
yourself time for a skill or ability check. After you suffer this
challenge's defense penalty for 1 round, you may attempt a
skill or ability check without provoking attacks of opportunity.

Improved Hustle: As for the hustle moderate defense challenge,
except you gain a +2 square (10-foot) bonus to speed.

Suicidal Strike: Your opponent's blows slam into you with
vicious accuracy, but you shrug them off in your relentless
drive to conquer your foe. You gain either a +6 bonus to
damage or a +3 bonus to attacks for 1 round after accepting
this challenge.

Superior Defensive Roll: As for the defensive roll lesser
defense challenge, except you gain a +3 bonus to damage
reduction checks.

STUNTS
A stunt is an action in combat that falls outside the normal
bounds of the rules. Iron Heroes defines a wide variety of different
combat actions you can take. The stunts cover everything
else. These rules are a tool to help you come up with
imaginative, clever, and exciting actions in combat. If you
can imagine it, the stunt rules allow you to attempt it. You
might throw a fistful of sand in an opponent's face to blind
him, run along the narrow top of a wall to maneuver around
a foe, or crack open a keg of beer to send a stream of liquid
into an opponent's face. Stunts reward you for coming up
with interesting and visually engaging actions in combat.

STUNT MECHANICS
The mechanics behind a stunt are relatively simple. When
you attempt a stunt, first you pick out the effect you want to
create. The following sections list several different possible
results for a stunt, broken down into three categories: offensive
stunts, defensive stunts, and maneuver stunts.
Next you describe the stunt. How do you attempt it? Do
you use the terrain and combat situation to your advantage?
What do you expect to happen if the stunt succeeds? Think
of the game as if it were a movie, and describe the scene as
you put the stunt into action. As part of this step, you must
choose the mechanical effect you want to gain from the
stunt. For example, the inflict penalty offensive stunt allows
you to force an opponent to take a penalty to his defense or
attacks. When you attempt the stunt, you announce the
total penalty you wish to inflict. A small penalty calls for a
much lower Difficulty Class than a higher one. In the case of
an opposed check, seeking more powerful effects forces you
to accept a penalty to your check.
The DM then picks one or more skills for you to use for
the stunt. You make this 'stunt check' against a Difficulty
Class chosen by the DM or one determined by the effect you
are seeking. Some stunts allow one of your opponents, such
as the target of an offensive stunt, to make a skill, ability, or
base attack check to foil your stunt. If the stunt check succeeds,
you gain its benefits or your foe suffers its effects.

STUNTS AND ACTIONS
Listed next to the name of each stunt is the action required
to complete it. Most stunts require a standard action to complete,
but a few qualify as attack actions. The attack action
stunts require either a standard attack or a full attack action.

STUNTS AND SKILLS
The DM chooses the skill you must use to complete a stunt
and the skill your target uses to oppose your efforts, if applicable.
He can also decide to replace a skill check with a base
attack/defense check or an ability check. Each of the stunt
types includes a short list of skills that are a good match for
its effects. While the DM can choose any skill he wants, he
should pick one that makes logical sense based on your
description of the stunt. Remember, though, that the DM
has final say on how a stunt works.
When you announce a stunt, you can choose to cancel it
and use a different action if you do not agree with the skill the
DM decides to use. Never argue with the DM on this point.
Wait until the game session is done if you have any concerns.
For DMs, remember that the players trust you to make fair,
impartial decisions. Don't pick skills simply to penalize the
players or make stunts more difficult than normal. By the
same token, be consistent when the NPCs attempt stunts. If
you consistently force the PCs to make illogical skill checks
to defend against stunts, particularly if you choose skills that
they have few ranks in, the players will quickly become frustrated
with your game.
To see some stunts in action, turn to

[ooc]This is my pretty much finished character. For those of you that care about such things but don't want to read all of the sheet he is a Ghul Gunslinger with a bit of eldritch skill. His weapon of choice is a repeating rifle called Meteor which he found on him when he woke up as a Ghul. Since then he's taken on a life of scavenging and fortune hunting out on the wastes and has gleaned a fair bit of knowledge on the safe traversing of the open lands. He recently shot someone trying to rob him of a find. Unfortunately the person he shot didn't ultimately die and used their leverage with the local law to get Eareg arrested under the claim that he had actually stolen the find from them.[/ooc]

Eareg Maar
[spoiler=Stats]
Ghul Witch 1/Gunfighter 4
STR: 10 [+0]
DEX: 17 [+3]
CON: 16 [+3]
INT: 16 [+3]
WIS: 12 [+1]
CHA: 10 [+0]

HP: 48
BAB: +3
RBAB: +6/+1
BDB: +4

Feat Mastery
Projectile: 3
Defense: 2
Lore: 2
Finesse: 1
Social: 1
Tactics: 1
Other: 0

Traits:
Eidetic Memory

Feats:
Beast Lore
Craft Eldritch Tattoo
Precise Shot
Point Blank Shot
Rapid Reload
Summon Familiar
Weapon Proficiency: Firearms

Special:
Deadeye Shot: Distant Shot
Deadeye Shot: Vital Shot

Abilities:
Light Sensitivity
Carnivorous
Darkvision 60ft
Immunity to disease, aging, poison, and death effects

Skills:
Concentration [con] - 2 - +5
Escape Artist [dex] - 3 - +6
Hide [dex] - 5 - +8
Knowledge (geography) [int] - 2 - +5
Knowledge (nature) [int] - 1 - +4
Listen [wis] - 5 - +6
Move Silently [dex] - 5 - +8
Ride [dex] - 5 - +8
Spot [wis] - 5 - +6
Survival [wis] - 5 - +6

Attack:
Claws: 1d3 [natural]
Bite: 1d4 [natural]
Flaming Repeating Rifle: 2d10 - Crit: x3 - Range: 70 ft - Single Shot (6)

Defense:
Leather Armor: 1d2/Magic - Max Bonus: +6 - Penalty: 0
Buckler: +1 Passive - Max Bonus: NA - Penalty: -1

Known Spells:
>All 0th Level<
Blood Wind
Burning Hands
Color Spray
Identify
Magic Missile
Mount
Read Magic

Memorized Spells:
0th Level [3]: Acid Splash, Detect Magic, Flare
1st Level [1]: Color Spray

Tattoos
Detect Magic x1
Identify x4
Magic Missile x1
Blood Wind x1
Mount x2
Read Magic x1
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Inventory]
Money: 534 obeloi

Items:
Grimoire [3 lbs]
Meteor (Flaming Repeating Rifle) [10 lbs]
Bullets x250 [5 lbs]
Leather Armor [15 lbs]
Buckler [5 lbs]

General Supplies:
Backpack [2 lbs]
Explorer's Outfit [Worn]
Tinderbox [0 lb]

Map Case [1/2 lb]
Parchment x10 [0 lbs]
Charcoal Pencil x3 [0 lbs]
Gunsmiths Kit [5 lbs]
Hide Tarpaulin [3 lbs]
Waterskin [4 lbs]

Total Weight: 52 lbs
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Magic Items]
Meteor
It is an intricately designed repeating rifle, adorned with faintly red glowing eldritch runes that spell out its name and grotesque carvings of demons devouring each other. The entire weapon is pitch black save where winding traceries flow along the stock and barrel in bright lines of red. Upon speaking its eldritch name the tip of the barrel vomits forth flame and when fired the cast shot ignites into a searing heat, leaping from the barrel in an appearance that befits the weapons name. The background of the Meteor is shrouded in mystery, all that Eareg Maar has uncovered is that it once belonged to a Human bandit of some notoriety countless years ago. When he awoke as a Ghul, other than the simple clothing he wore, was the strange weapon. Since then he has carried it with him everywhere.
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Fluff]
As a ghul, Eareg Maar has no recollection of who he was when he was alive. Unfortunately there have been no records uncovered as to his past, but he has learned to live with that. Awakening as a Ghul for the first time within the rotting remains of what had once been a wooden shack outside of Macelleria, Eareg found himself with nothing but a simple set of clothing and a single item, an extravagantly engraved rifle of obscure origin. Years of researching who he was bore no fruit, save to make him very capable at finding things others could not. So the Ghul took to the slaughterlands and through great luck managed to slowly crawl from the putrid murk of a common Macellerian to the grimy, yet noticeable level of a skilled scavenger. His growing skill attracted notice with the robber guilds and after several requests (some with veiled threats backing them) Eareg eventually took up with the most forceful of them, The Crimson Shadows, mostly to get them off his back. It was here that a dirty Human witch, filled with more drugs than talent, taught him the basics of eldritch control in exchange for several jars of preserved leechkin flesh. A talent that has served the Ghilian fairly well. Since then Eareg Maar has stayed largely out of guild politics. Content in the fact that as long as he sells his finds through their middlemen, he will be left alone. A bit of knowledge proven not quite as true as he would of hoped now that he is sitting in a cell, awaiting combat in the pits. Charged with the crimes of assault and theft from another scavenger. Fabrications that he cannot disprove.
[/spoiler]

Sharpmaw
[spoiler=Familiar]
Owl - Magical Beast
Str: 4
Dex: 17
Con: 10
Int: 6
Wis: 14
Cha: 4

HP: 18
BAB: +2
BDB: +3
Initiative: +3
Speed: 10 ft. (2 squares), fly 40 ft. (average)

Attack: Talons +5 melee (1d4'"3)
Special Qualities: Low-light vision

Skills:
Listen: +16
Move Silently: +17
Spot: +8 (in shadowy illumination)

Feats:
Alertness
Weapon Finesse
[/spoiler]

Looks great, Nomadic!

Having a look at your tattoos, I've put an upper limit on the number (13) available at any one time (see the feat for details).  You're only one tattoo over though, I think.

EDIT: All the Iron Heroes equipment is now up.

Wait, what level does a character start at?

Whoops, forgot to explain LAs to the uninitiated!

Usually characters start at 1st level.  However, some of the non-human races have abilities that make them more powerful than a character of the same level, so they have an "LA" or Level Adjustment.  A mantid has an LA of +1, for example, so a level 1 mantid gains experience and is otherwise treated as a 2nd level human would be (this to offset powerful abilities such as the mantid's natural weapons and flight abilities).

So, to ensure that even a Shade character (LA +3, because of their abilities) is viable, I'm starting characters at level 4.  For those with an LA of +1, such as the lilix, mantid, etc, they'll start at level 3.  A shade character would start at level 1.

Skills have now been added to the list of links.  The important things to note for D&D veterans are Skill Challanges - basically, increasing a Skill DC to accomplish something more quickly or to perform actions simultaneously - and Skill Groups, which certain Classes give access to: basically, if you have access to a Skill Group you can invest skill points in the group instead of in individual skills, which gives you ranks in all skills under that group (the document explains it better).

Please continue to post any questions - I realize I haven't presented this information in the most organized fashion and have changed my mind on some details here and there.  Sorry for any confusion!

What classes are automatically proficient with firearms? Or is it always a specialty.

I fixed your bonuses thing, turned it into a table so it would be easier to read. Also did you say point buy is 2 points after 15 (16 and 17) and 4 past 17 (18+)? Because I like Llum thought it was AT 15 and AT 17. In which case I actually have more points to spend

I checked the Iron Heroes player book thing, it looks to be the way Steerpike said.

Quote from: TheMeanestGuestI checked the Iron Heroes player book thing, it looks to be the way Steerpike said.

Sweet, guess I'll have to re-buy my attributes

Edit: Just did so and the additional points gave me another +1 to int, which means one more level 1 spell :)

My character sheet as of yet. I don't know if I've missed anything or miscalculated, but I hope not. I'll upload some background at some point.  

[ic=Character Sheet]
Mr. Carver
Human (macellarian)
Executioner 4

Abilities
Strength: 13 [+1]
Dexterity: 16 [+3]
Constitution: 16 [+3]
Intelligence: 12 [+1]
Wisdom: 15 [+2]
Charisma: 12 [+1]

Attack (standard): Agony Knife +7 (1d4+1 and penalty/19-20)
Attack (razor fiend):  Agony Knife +5/+5 (1d4 and penalty/19-20)
Options: venom, power attack, sneak attack

HP: 35
Defense: 18 (+4 BDB, +3 dex, +1 chitinous plates)
Armor: 1d3 (studded leather)

Initiative: +3
BAB: +4
BDB: +4

Traits: City rat (bravo), fleshy (chitin plates)
Abilities: Execution pool (2), sneak attack +3d6, executioner's eye, hindering cut, armor-piercing strike  
Skills:

Mastery: Finesse 2, Power 2, Lore 1
Feats: Razor Fiend 1, weapon finesse 1, power attack  1, venom mastery 1
Skill ranks: Perception 7, Stealth 7, Athletics 3, sleight of hand 4, bluff 7, Tumble 7, heal 4, survival 3, knowledge(local: Macellaria) 7
Languages: Shambles, Alleyspeak

Equipment: the Agony Knife (rusty bone-handled Agonizing masterwork dagger covered in sickly glowing purple glyphs; enchanted with pain-enducing hexes), discreet masterwork studded leather outfitted with overt knife scabbards, 12 daggers of various sinister designs, a bowler hat, a dark ancient military coat (haphazardly patched, with three sleeves)  dark glasses, humanskin gloves, small lacquered box containing 4 human teeth, various venom ingredients in a pouch, a purse with 736 obeloi in it.  
Grafts and modifications: a third half-blind eye (green iris) attached by way of a small lump of deformed muscle to the side of his head, black grafted leechkin muscle on his right arm, a dangling ornamentary vestigial arm in his left side, sharpened teeth, acid burns on hands, small squirming subcutaneous plates (chitinious plates)
[/ic]

[ooc]
Character creation notes: ability bonus added to dexterity. Hit points were rolled with WotC's die rolling engine (3d4: 2,2,2)

Cost: 22 obeloi daggers, 2302 obeloi Agony Knife,  180 oleroi modified mwk studded leather, 50 obeloi assorted clothes and accesories, 200 obeloi ornamental grafts, 10 obeloi lacquered box. 3500-(22+2302+180+50+200+10)=3500-2764=736 obeloi
[/ooc]

Great characters so far, guys!

One thing I noticed, Crow - did you add in the defense bonus for the Chitin Plates?

So, so far we've got a spellcasting ghul rifleman covered in arcane tattoos, a sneaky, knife-fighting graftpunk, and an undead, would-be uberwitch following his old journals on the road back to occult power... very cool.

Thanks for changing the table, Nomadic!

[blockquote=Cataclysmic Crow]What classes are automatically proficient with firearms? Or is it always a specialty. [/blockquote]Gunfighter gets free proficiency, everyone else has to burn a feat.

Yeah, forgot the plates. Although, admittedly, that's the part I'm the least sure about. It's just vastly easier coming up with useless grafts than useful ones :p
Could you stat up a tentacle graft at some point? You can't have a proper flailing patchwork fleshy without tentacles after all.

Ask and ye shall receive.  I've added three new grafts to the graft section above.  A poison version of the tentacle would be available for more money.

Tentacle: Harvested from one of the many aqueous horrors of the Sallow Seas or the Fevered Ocean or else culled from something even stranger, this graft usually replaces a limb with a suckered tentacles, though for an additional charge it can be sutured on in addition to other limbs.  Treat the tentacle as a natural weapon dealing 1d3 damage.  It is fully prehensile.
750 obeloi (extra arm version is 2750 obeloi)

Extra Limb: Wrenched from the socket of one of the more humanoid denizens of the Cadaverous Earth, this extra limb is a must for any fleshy looking to multitask.  The limb counts as an extra off hand.  To wield more than two weapons at once with reduced penalties, take the multiweapon fighting feat.
2250 obeloi

Weapon Graft: While most grafts are living tissue attached to another living body, a weapon graft is exactly what the name suggests: a normal, masterwork, or magic melee weapon grafted onto the hand of a thrall so it is never unarmed. The weapon actually becomes a natural weapon, though its other properties are unchanged. The grafted creature receives a +1 bonus on all attack and damage rolls with the weapon, as long as it is proficient with the weapon. However, it cannot use the hand with the graft for anything but combat, and it takes a '"2 penalty on all skill checks requiring the use of hands.
Weapon price + 1,000 obeloi  (extra arm version is 3000 obeloi)

For some reason it never occured to me I should spend some of my finances on grafts...
For the City Rat trait, doesn't it make more sense to have it depend on knowledge(local) or some such? It just seems odd for my character to have survival ranks (pertaining to the outside).
And while we are on knowledge(local) is it area-specific?

What do people intend the crimes they were caught for to be?  My character is probably a murderer, but my working concept is that they caught him for something else.

I would have thought so too, but I think what they're going for is someone adept at foraging/begging for food and drink on the streets, hence the Survival.  It is a little weird about the locating dealers thing being keyed to Survival, though.

Knowledge (local) would be keyed to one of the nine cities.  It will also be very useful for getting around Macellaria - with a successful Knowledge (local) check of DC 10 to get from one district to another without having to slog through a maze of streets, DC 15 to find short cuts and hidden ways and the like (DC 20 for really obscure stuff, like the secret entrance to a temple or something similar).

Ok just have my fluff left to write up.

Sounds great - we're going to have a very interesting group.

[spoiler=Old Character]

Hungermoth Crimsaad
[spoiler=Stats]
Human Man-At-Arms 4
STR: 13 [+1]
DEX: 14 [+2]
CON: 14 [+2]
INT: 20 [+5]
WIS: 10 [+0]
CHA: 14 [+2]

HP:
44

Languages
Shambles
Jangle
Fingerspeak
Filchspeak
Morbis
Hextongue
Hellspeak
Spiderchatter
Chattlechatter
Serpentine
Leechdance

Feat Mastery
All 2

Traits:
Noble Born[Well Educated]
Weapon Bond(Int): Greatsword

Feats:
Tactics of the Mind
Weapon Focus: Greatsword
Armor Mastery
Healing Lore
Overwhelming Prescence
Elusive Target

Skills:
Academia
-Appraise (Int): 7+5 = 12
-Concentration (Con): 7+2 = 9
-Decipher Script(Int): 7+5 = 12
-Heal (Wis): 7+0 = 7
-Knowledge(Nobility) (Int): 7+5 = 12
-Speak Language(none): 7
Robbery
-Disable Device (Int): 7+5 = 12
-Forgery (Int): 7+5 = 12
-Open Lock (Dex): 7+2 = 9
-Sleight of Hand (Dex): 7+2 = 9
Perception
-Listen (Wis): 7+0 = 7
-Search (Int): 7+5 = 12
-Sense Motive (Wis): 7+0 = 7
-Spot (Wis): 7+0 = 7
Intimidate (Cha): 1+2 = 3
Hide(Dex): 7+2 = 9
Move Silently(Dex): 7+2 = 9
Craft(Clockwork)(Int): 7+5 = 12
Craft(Weaponsmithing)(Int): 7+5 = 12
Knowledge(Demonology)(Int): 7+5 = 12
Knowledge(Geography)(Int): 7+5 = 12
Use Magical Device(Cha): 7+2 = 9
Gather Information(Cha): 7+2 = 9

Abilities:
Glyph Tattoo: Amplify Self 1/day (Enlarge Person as caster level 2)


Combat:
Masterwork Greatsword: +11 (2d6+7 - 19-20x2)
Defense: 18 (4 BDB + 2 Overwhelming Prescence + 2 Dex)
Armor: Masterwork Studded Leather: 1d3+1/Magic - Max Dex Bonus: +5 - Penalty: 0
Initiative: +2
Saves: +4
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Inventory]
Money:
1082 Obeloi

Items:
Sarcad's Savior (Headband of Intelligence +2)
Masterwork Greatsword 8lbs
Masterwork Studded Leather 20lbs
Scabbard, Medium Zombie Servitor. Carries items for Hungermoth.

General Supplies:
Thieve's Tools, Masterwork 2lbs
Artisan's Tools, Masterwork 5lbs
Backpack 2lbs
Bedroll 5lbs
Tattered Nobles Outfit 10lbs


Total Weight: 52lbs
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Magic Items]
Sarcad's Savior (Headband of Intelligence +2)
Sarcad was a recent ancestor of House Crimsaad. While exceptionally wise and charismatic, the man was to be put bluntly something of a dunce. As he grew of age and was unable to master the simplest of magics his family grew worried, for how could one become a proper magister without a demoniac familiar as proof of position. Under guise of a comming of age gift Sarcad's father had this torc crafted to his specification. After being presented with his gift Sarcad amazed many by successfully completing his first summoning and shackling an imp. After decades of experience the aged Sarcad no longer required the torc to summon his familiar and it was kept around as a family curio.

As a young man, Hungermoth showed little aptitude for magics, due to apathy and disinclination. However his family thought he was another Sarcad and so gifted him with the torc at a young age. He never corrected anyone in his family about their wrongful assumption  and failed to return the curio to its proper place before he left Skein.
Shocking Masterwork Large Greatsword

[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Fluff]
Hungermoth was the son of a noble house, well educated and a quick learner he was given several tutors to sate his appettite for learning. From these tutors Hungermoth also picked up several bad habits, one of wich is canabalism. As scandal and rumors relating his appetites grew his family eventually exiled him, tired of being embarrased. Hungermoth made his way to Macellaria, where he was arrested and thrown into the pits.

Physically Hungermoth would be lean and not too muscled, he fights more using tactics and overwhelming presence than brute strength. He'd have several large scars and maybe some kind of metallic/clockwork teeth for aethetic purposes. He's also completely hairless and has violet eyes. His clothing consists of a black leather vest embossed with intricate patterns of clockwork gears and silkmoths picked out in silver. On top of that a large silken haori in riotus red, violet and yellow that falls to his knees. Leather breeches made from a deep crimson leather tucked into black boots embossed with patterns to match the vest also picked out in silver. A silver torc is clasped about his neck fashioned into the likeness of a horde of wasps with eyes picked out in carnelians and locusts with eyes picked out in bloodstones. About his left wrist is a silver manacle graven with frosty blue glyphs from which hang several feathers, charms and a miniature length of chain. He also sports a modest tricorn with a handfull of silver plumes. He has two separate masks, befitting his rank. The first is made to resemble a zerda, made from a zerda skull and silk. The second is a metallic thing beated from silver with large bulbous glass eyes reminiscient of a Mantids compound eyes.
[/spoiler]
[/spoiler]

First of all, I like the concept - a kind of brilliant polymath fighter, as skilled in tongues and esoteric knowledge as in swordplay, with dark appetites beneath his learned exterior.  Very cool.

Background-wise you might consider making him one of the following:

- A former magister-in training from Skein who preferred the training-yard to the demonist's summoning circle.  The great sword would likely be a curved sword similar to a dai-katana in this case.  People from Skein are amongst the only residents of CE to frown on cannibalism.
- One of the rugged nobles of the Northern Baronies, vassals to the Lords and Ladies Revenant.  Despite their loyalties some Northmen have a distaste for grave-spawn and resent their undead liege-lords.
- A merchant princeling from Crepuscle, where titles are for sale and those with the most money are the royalty.

[blockquote=Llum]I calculated my skills as if I've had the headband of intelligence since character creation. Dunno if that's correct or not. Some questions for Steerpike, what kind of knowledge and crafts are there that I could take? I'm also guessing I need a separate Artisan's kit for every Craft skill?[/blockquote]There was actually a big controversy over this very issue, and eventually they changed it so that the Headband no longer affected skill points:

"This device is a light cord with a small gem set so that it rests upon the forehead of the wearer. The headband adds to the wearer's Intelligence score in the form of an enhancement bonus of +2, +4, or +6. This enhancement bonus does not earn the wearer extra skill points when a new level is attained; use the unenhanced Intelligence bonus to determine skill points."

I actually think you only need one set of Artisan's Tools.  The text seems to suggest so, but it's ambiguous... I'll say one set is fine.

For a Man-at-Arms, I might suggest Craft (Armourer) or Craft (Weaponsmithing).  Knowledge-wise, Knowledge (geography) is often useful, as is Knowledge (arcana), and Knowledge (history).  Since your character is from the nobility, Knowledge (nobility) might be appropriate.  If you decide to make him a nobleman from Skein, Knowledge (demonology) might also be appropriate.

[blockquote=Llum]Shocking Masterwork Large Greatsword: +10 (3d6 +1d6 electrical - 19-20x2) [/blockquote]Just want to double check your calculations here.  You get +4 BAB, +0 Strength (10), +1 Masterwork, +1 Weapon Focus (Greatsword), for a total of +6 - I'm missing +4.  Not saying the additional +4 isn't there, but I'm not seeing where it's coming from.

Also, a Greatsword is 2d6, not 3d6, unless again I'm missing something.

Make sure to use a move action to initiate your Overwhelming Presence during combat - otherwise your Defense will drop by 2.

Otherwise, the build looks clean to me!  And kudos for building a fighter-type with only 10 Strength, and for taking language and craft skills, which many brutish brawny characters ignore!

By the way, if you're into tactics for this guy, consider taking Hunter levels - sticking with Man-at-Arms would be fine as well, of course, but Hunter has some interesting tactical abilities.

EDIT: Sorry, I realized it's a Large Greatsword!  Nevermind about the 3d6 thing, that's totally correct.

Not sure how many skills I should have for my arcanist levels or exactly how spellcasting or the "feat mastery" bonuses work, but here is my best understanding of how to create a character:

(As far as I understand it the feat mastery points do not mean I get extra feats to spend on mastery, but that I can buy "up to that level" of mastered feats.)

I think that although the Arcanist chart is up, all the information for it is not in the Classes.doc and that may be the origin of my confusion.

-
(See next post)

Cacaphonous-Whisper-of-the-Desert "Wispy" "That Damn Bird"
[spoiler=Stats]
Jatayi Bard 1/Arcanist 2 (LA 1)
STR: 10 [+0]
DEX: 16 [+3]
CON: 15 [+2]
INT: 16 [+3]
WIS: 8 [-1]
CHA: 16 [+3]

HP: 25 (10 + 15) (arcanist and CON)
BAB: +1
BDB: +1 (unsure if it's 1 from the arcanist 2 levels and 1 bard level; or if it's 3 as the base chart implies above)

Ref = 8 (bard 2, base 3, mod 3)
Fort = 5 (base 3, mod 2)
Will = 4 (base 3, mod -1)
Initiative = +7 (feat, dex)

Speed = 30 feet / 30 feet fly (normal)
Vision = Low Light x 4 (Also see magnetic fields)

Feat Mastery
Projectile: 0
Defense: 1
Lore: 2
Finesse: 0
Social: 3
Tactics: 1
Other: 0


Traits:
Desert Born (+2 save v. fire; +4 survival in desert)
---Dunestalker (+2 Balance/Tumble in desert)
Eidetic Memory (+1 all Know Checks ; +2 Spot v. Disguise)
Necrophagic (Eat Decomposing Meat)

Feats:
Diehard (Auto-Stabilize at -1)
Endurance
Exotic Weapon: Jayati Bolt
Imp. Initiative
Quick Draw (draw hidden as move action)

Special:
See Speed and Vision above

Abilities:
Bardic Music 1x/day
--Countersong (Others may use my perform check as a save. 10 rounds.)
--Fascinate (30 feet of bard. 10 rounds)

Skills:
BARD 6+INT(3) x 4 =36
+Arcanist levels 2+3=5x2levels=10

TOTAL (RANKS+MODIFIER)
10 (7+3) Bluff
3 (1+2) Concentrate
7 (4+3) Diplomacy
6 (3+3) Escape Artist
10 (7+3) Gather Info
8 (5+3) Hide
5 Knowledges (Bardic Knowledge Level 1+3 INT+ 1 Eidetic)
  +3 additional to KNow (Demonology)
8 (5+3) Listen
5 (2+3) Move Silent
9 (4+3+2(racial)) Perform
5 (2+3) Sleight of hand
3 (3+0) Swim
6 (3+3) Tumble

Attack:
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi


Defense:
Mstwk. Studded Leather DR=1d3/magic ; max. dex +5 ; weight 20 lbs ;25+150 obeloi

Known Spells:
BARD- (x=prepared)
LEVEL 0
x 1="Cacaphonous Tinnitus" Lullaby (-5 spot/listen; -2 will v. sleep)
x 2-"Fulgent (Blinding) Ambridescence" Dancing Lights
 3- "Cacaphonous Rant" Ghost Sound
 4- "Tittering Sending" Message

WITCH-
LEVEL 0 (4)
"Magic Dowsing" Detect Magic
"Contagion Dowsing" Detect Poison
"Discombobulation" Daze
"Randomized Magical Trick" Prestidigitation

LEVEL 1 (2)
"Honeyslick" Grease
"Morning Fog" Obscuring Mist

Tattoos
None.
[/spoiler]

[ic=Inventory]
Items:
Mstwk. Studded Leather DR=1d3/magic ; max. dex +5 ; weight 20 lbs ;25+150 obeloi
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi

Jayati Crossbow Bolts (25)

Jayati Playing Sticks (like pick up sticks mixed with cards)
Traditional Necklace Wards against demons (probably don't work the way he hopes they do.)
Grimoire: -15 obeloi 3 lbs,

Backpack     2 gp     2 lb.
Bedroll     1 sp     5 lb.
Bottle, wine, glass     2 gp     '"
Case, map or scroll     1 gp     Â½ lb.
(6) Flask (empty)     3 cp     8 lb.
Flint and steel    1 gp    '"
Grappling hook    1 gp    4 lb.
Hammer    5 sp    2 lb.
(5) Oil (1-pint flask)     1 sp     5 lb.
Paper (sheet)    4 sp    '"
Parchment (sheet)    2 sp    '"
Piton     1 sp     Â½ lb.
Pouch (holding several of mother's feathers (blackened from when the demon blasted her into a thousand bits)
Rope, silk (50 ft.)     10 gp     5 lb.
Sack (empty)    1 sp    Â½ lb.1
Sealing wax    1 gp    1 lb.
Sewing needle    5 sp    '"
Signal whistle    8 sp    '"
Signet ring    5 gp    '"
Vest (Holds alchemists fire, etc)
Vial, ink or potion     1 gp     1/10 lb.
Waterskin    1 gp    4 lb.
Chalk, 10 pieces     1 cp     '"

(3) Alchemist's fire (flask)     20 gp     1 lb.
(1) Holy water (flask)     25 gp     1 lb.
(1) Smokestick    20 gp    Â½ lb.
(1) "Walkersbane" Tanglefoot bag     50 gp     4 lb.
(1) "Big Thunder" Thunderstone    30 gp    1 lb.
(2) "Firestarter" Tindertwig    1 gp    '"

Total Weight: ~48 lbs.[/spoiler]

Magic Items

Pearl of Power (level 1 spells; extra 1/day) (1K)

Bracers of Armor +1 (1K)

"Holy" Longsword (Mstwk.) I don't intend to use it. He stole this from someone and it makes no sense for him to use a sword anyway. (it should eventually be +1 v gravespawn but I don't have the obeloi to afford that.) (365 obeloi)[/ic]

[ic=Background]
Coming from Skein, the Clockwork City, this Jatayi Witch lived far from the main brood; the Jatayi Fablers come from Macellaria while Cacaphonous Whisper-of-the-Desert, "Wispy", was raised by a half-mad, drug-addled sapfiend hen who was exiled from the tribe because she trafficked with demons and did unspeakable things each moon-lit night.

Wispy arrived near Macellaria with ruffled feathers, a contract out on him and a holy sword he 'borrowed' from his last adventuring ally, who he thinks he left to die lost and alone in the desert.

Wispy is always ready to run, to dance, to disappear when trouble gets too dire and he is prepared to endure great privations in order to survive.[/ic]

Familiar

ViceBite
Fiendish Animal
Str: ??
Dex: ??
Con: ??
Int: ??
Wis: ??
Cha: ??

HP: ??
BAB: +??
BDB: +??
Initiative: +??
Speed: ??ft. (2 squares), fly ??ft. (average)

Attack: ??
Special Qualities: Low-light vision

Skills:
??

Feats:
??

Notes
ViceBite is a Clockwork ID Bird, a demonic creature that Wispy's mother summoned to keep watch over the family. When she died, the creature decided to bond with Wispy. Every now and then it forgets its mission and eats some of Wispy's feathers. This has led to a strained relationship between the two.

Wealth Left 3 Obeloi. (Poor Bird).

Quote from: LlumShocking Masterwork Large Greatsword: +10 (3d6 +1d6 electrical - 19-20x2) [/blockquote]Just want to double check your calculations here.  You get +4 BAB, +0 Strength (10), +1 Masterwork, +1 Weapon Focus (Greatsword), for a total of +6 - I'm missing +4.  Not saying the additional +4 isn't there, but I'm not seeing where it's coming from.

First of all, I like the concept - a kind of brilliant polymath fighter, as skilled in tongues and esoteric knowledge as in swordplay, with dark appetites beneath his learned exterior.  Very cool.

Background-wise you might consider making him one of the following:

- A former magister-in training from Skein who preferred the training-yard to the demonist's summoning circle.  The great sword would likely be a curved sword similar to a dai-katana in this case.  People from Skein are amongst the only residents of CE to frown on cannibalism.

For a Man-at-Arms, I might suggest Craft (Armourer) or Craft (Weaponsmithing).  Knowledge-wise, Knowledge (geography) is often useful, as is Knowledge (arcana), and Knowledge (history).  Since your character is from the nobility, Knowledge (nobility) might be appropriate.  If you decide to make him a nobleman from Skein, Knowledge (demonology) might also be appropriate.
[/quote]

I like the former magister-in training from Skein. He would definitley be someone who was well educated. Also fits in well with his background.

Alright for skills I took Craft (Weaponsmithing) and Knowledge (geography)/Knowledge (nobility)/Knowledge (demonology).

Now the Headband of Intelligence, does it have to be a headband or can it be changed to be some other kind of item? Also since the item doesn't grant me bonus skill points, does it grant me a bonus language?

Also, what would clothing be like from Skein? Nobles clothing in particular, I figure Hungermoth has kept his old (now worse for wear) nobles outfit from skein. Would it be some kind of asian influenced clothing (gathering from Skein human physical apperance and the fact that my sword is of an asian style)?

Oh I also noticed something really cheesy, so I was curious if there's some kind of rules errata about it. With Expanded Cleave Mastery 10 you get another attack for every hit that does 15+ damage. With something like a Large Greatsword with a +5 strength bonus, you do a minumum of 8 damage (3d6+5). Add in the Weapon Finesse feats and you can get another 4-6 damage, so that's a minimum of 12-14 damage. With Power attack granting double the damage bonus for 2h weapons, take a simple -2 penalty(not that much) you have a minimum damage of 16-18. Basically you can keep hitting until you miss, every attack.

How did you figure your abilities out Llum? a 20 ability score should be 21 by my calculations (5*1+2*2+3*4), or at least 17 if you spent your free ability bonus on it. Doesn't leave a lot of room for the other abilities.
 
But I like the concept of the intelligent warrior, using some of those tactics feats to fight in combat. And the name is just brilliant.

And you are talking about expanded mastery 10 for cleave. If you look through the classes there aren't actually a lot of them that gives that level of mastery. You could multiclass, but then you'd miss out on some of the end-game abilities for your class. And you can only cleave other enemies, so it's not much use in a duel or against a gorgefly. Also, you have to take expanded mastery 3, but that's not much of an issue for a Man-at-Arms.      


But damn, we have a lot of witches. Good thing we have Hungermoth to keep the enemies at bay (and me to stab them in the back on occasion although that's not a terribly defensive action).
LD, arcanists normally gain 1d4+2 HP per level, but since witches are based off the arcanist I guess you only gain 1d4 per level.
And bards should probably get feat masteries, I just don't think Steerpike has gotten around to it yet. I'd suggest (to Steerpike) that they get high social (as a thief), good lore (from 1 to 9 progression), and perhaps decent finesse (1 to 8 ). Basically, thief with lore instead of defense.  

A final question for Steerpike: seeing as most everybody have gone with some kind of enhancement instead of a pure bonus to their magic weapon, is there some kind of pain-enducing enhancement I can enchant it with?  

EDIT: LD, you have understood masteries correctly, and the witch/arcanist is described in the first post in this thread.
Llum, reading your abilities over again, it seems you might have just bought them on a 1-for-1 basis?

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowBut I like the concept of the intelligent warrior, using some of those tactics feats to fight in combat. And the name is just brilliant.

And you are talking about expanded mastery 10 for cleave. If you look through the classes there aren't actually a lot of them that gives that level of mastery. You could multiclass, but then you'd miss out on some of the end-game abilities for your class. And you can only cleave other enemies, so it's not much use in a duel or against a gorgefly. Also, you have to take expanded mastery 3, but that's not much of an issue for a Man-at-Arms.

But damn, we have a lot of witches. Good thing we have Hungermoth to keep the enemies at bay (and me to stab them in the back on occasion although that's not a terribly defensive action).
LD, arcanists normally gain 1d4+2 HP per level, but since witches are based off the arcanist I guess you only gain 1d4 per level.
And bards should probably get feat masteries, I just don't think Steerpike has gotten around to it yet. I'd suggest (to Steerpike) that they get high social (as a thief), good lore (from 1 to 9 progression), and perhaps decent finesse (1 to 8 ). Basically, thief with lore instead of defense.[/quote]

Ya I originally wanted to play a Witch as well, but after seeing how many casters we had I was like "No, I think I should playing something a bit different". Took me a while to find something I was happy with (I didn't want to double up on Gunslinger with Nomadic), but eventually I worked something out.

[blockquote=Cataclysmic Crow]LD, arcanists normally gain 1d4+2 HP per level, but since witches are based off the arcanist I guess you only gain 1d4 per level.
And bards should probably get feat masteries, I just don't think Steerpike has gotten around to it yet. I'd suggest (to Steerpike) that they get high social (as a thief), good lore (from 1 to 9 progression), and perhaps decent finesse (1 to 8 ). Basically, thief with lore instead of defense.[/blockquote]Ah, more conversion issues!

The Witch gets Arcanist HD - actually this will almost certainly affect the other players a lot.  Bards get Thief Feat Mastery levels, Defense, and HD.

Light Dragon, the Arcanist has been cut and replaced with the Witch, which is basically the D&D Wizard with the Arcanist's Defense/HD/Feat Masteries, or looked at another way, the Arcanist but with the Wizard's special abilities and spells.  Bard is the only other spellcasting class.  I posted the Arcanist's chart so that Witches would have access to his feat masteries etc.

[blockquote=Llum]Now the Headband of Intelligence, does it have to be a headband or can it be changed to be some other kind of item? Also since the item doesn't grant me bonus skill points, does it grant me a bonus language?
[/blockquote]It can be a different sort of item (like an Amulet, Broach, or Ring), and it does not grant you a bonus langauge.

[blockquote=Llum]Also, what would clothing be like from Skein? Nobles clothing in particular, I figure Hungermoth has kept his old (now worse for wear) nobles outfit from skein. Would it be some kind of asian influenced clothing (gathering from Skein human physical apperance and the fact that my sword is of an asian style)?[/blockquote]The nobility are distinguished first and foremost by the clothing. Silk is the most common material for clothing, although velvet, fur, cloth-of-gold, lace, and satin are also worn. In contrast with the dull colours of the lower classes the wealthy wear clothing in as vibrant and scintillating hues as possible, frequently with very ornate patterning and embroidering. Silk shirts with leather vests, breeches, and high leather boots are common for men, often worn under a flaring knee-length coat. For women, long gowns are the norm, often with low necklines and clinging fabrics (though gowns are usually still ankle-length). Both sexes wear their hair long or else wear powdered wigs. The upper class are also distinguished by their distinctive masks or veils of fine silk, which are always worn in public as a mark of status; they also wear large hats, often tricornes for men. Magisters and magistra '" the true nobility '" and a few individuals of equivalent status all bear the traditional glyph-graven silver manacle around their wrist (usually the left) with a silver chain running from the shackle to the collar of his familiar, a demon he or she has summoned themselves [This assumes the magister has the proper training - obviously your character missed that, perhaps leaving before his first summoning]. Jewellery is often lavish and is worn by both men and women, often incorporating precious gems such as bloodstones, carnelians, opals, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies [this would work perfectly with your headband, which I was imagining as a family heirloom]. Young men always go clean-shaven, and older men very occasionally sport well-trimmed goatees.

So, sort of somewhere between asian and Restoration British.  Fuse a Samurai with a 17th century libertine and you have roughly how I imagine the magisters: arrogant but disciplined, doggedly atheistic but almost paradoxically spiritually aware (demonology), invested both in the worlds of extreme hedonism and in honor. Of course, your character might be reacting to much of this

Thank you for explaining Tactics of the Mind - it had slipped mine.

[blockquote=Cataclysmic Crow]A final question for Steerpike: seeing as most everybody have gone with some kind of enhancement instead of a pure bonus to their magic weapon, is there some kind of pain-enducing enhancement I can enchant it with? [/blockquote]Hmm, cool idea.  Here are two options:

Vicious

When a vicious weapon strikes an opponent, it creates a flash of disruptive energy that resonates between the opponent and the wielder. This energy deals an extra 2d6 points of damage to the opponent and 1d6 points of damage to the wielder. Only melee weapons can be vicious.

Price +1 bonus.


Agonizing

When an agonizing weapon strikes an opponent, the target is wracked with crippling pain.  They take a -4 penalty on attack rolls, skill checks, and ability checks for one round after being hit.

Price +1 bonus.

[blockquote=Ligh Dragon](As far as I understand it the feat mastery points do not mean I get extra feats to spend on mastery, but that I can buy "up to that level" of mastered feats.)[/blockquote]That's exactly right.

If you're looking around for another class than the Arcanist and don't want to play a WItch (though you're very welcome to - even if we do have a bunch of em; Witches are pretty common in CE, and everyone can always take different sorts of spells), consider the Thief for a class that gels well with the bard.

Tarim
[spoiler=Description]
Tarim resembles a dried husk, a canvas of parched skin wrapped over a skeletal frame. He is quite tall but slender, and moves with the pride and subtle grace of a peacock. His hair is long, thick and black. A long, narrow beard tapers down from his chin, fashioned with oils and wax into the shape of an undulating vedge. He covers his body from the neck to the feet in a long saffron-colored silk caftan, ornately embroidered with twisting black figures of dancing devils and mystical beasts. The top of his head is wrapped in a black turban decorated with a crimson feather. The talons of his fingers have been replaced with bronzen replicas, long and curved. In place of his teeth he bears a row of black jewels, while a pair of gleaming stones peer from his eye-sockets. He conceals his natural odour with a rich selection of perfumes.
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Background]
Tarim has no recollections of his past existence as a creature of living flesh; his earliest memory is from his awaking into unlife, laying on a cold stone slab within a dim vaulted chamber hidden under the streets of Marainei. That place was something of a mongrel; a curious hybrid between an occult sanctum and a laboratory. Strange and wicked-looking hieroglyphics and queer, heretical frescoes covered the moldy walls and ceiling, while upon the many shelves and tables lay a disorganized collection of assorted alchemical equipment - vials of poisons and elixirs, contraptions of glass spheres and tubes and cylinders, lenses and syringes, and leather-bound treatises of aged vellum inked with arcane and ancient runes. Vats of necrotic flesh stood in a corner, most of them sealed, one apparently eaten of.

From all the evidence, it was clear that the place had belonged to Tarim - or the man that Tarim had once been - and that this man had quite willingly pursued the gift of life beyond death. So much was confirmed by the journal Tarim discovered, written by himself for himself; a precaution against the amnesia that his transformation was wont to inflict. Though it offered a great deal of insight to his forgotten past, the journal was also somewhat disturbing. Flowing chaotically from one rambling passage to the next, the text danced in that murky twilight between ingenuity and insanity. Regardless, it contained the necessary instructions to guide Tarim upon the path of witchcraft, providing necessary keys and ciphers for the eldritch runes and symbols that filled the many scrolls and worm-eaten tomes that lined the shelves of the adjacent library. Tarim had once been a master of witchcraft. One day he would be it again.

Being caught in the machinations of the priesthood ruling Marainein, Tarim invoked the ire of a powerful faction amongst them. Attacked by accusations of heresy, he escaped their wrath by sneaking out of town in the dark of night. His voluntary exile brought him northwards, to Macellaria, where he settled. Having spent a few years pursuing witchcraft in the City of Bodysnatchers he has secured lodging in the Wormhive, a dwelling inconspicous enough on the outside not to scream "witch's lair", yet close enough to the Hexwarren to keep conducting business easily.

Tarim has forged some connections during his stay in Macellaria. Though he hasn't formally joined the House of Hungry Ghosts, he sympathizes with their public agenda, and has had some dicreet dealings with their agents in the past
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Into the Pits]A less fortunate affair has been his involvement in the so-called Black Scroll Incident. A secretive ring of witches were undertaking to study an ancient scroll, written on black paper and stolen - it was whispered - from the House of Iridescent Angles. The scroll was sealed with such powerful wards that only the combined effort of several witches could force it's opening. Tarim had been contacted by the ring's leader and offerend membership, to which he had agreed. The cabal gathered in an abandoned building after dark and began an elaborate ritual, unlocking the black scroll's wards one by one.

The ceremony lasted for hours, and some of the witches perished from the effort, but in the dark of night before dawn the final lock was unravelled. Grinning triumphantly, the leader of the ring took up the scroll while the other members were struggling to recover from the exhausting effort. As he rolled open the ancient sheet however, his countenance was suddenly struck with surprise and fear. The lesser spell-weavers watched in horror as smoke-like tendrils crept out from the black scroll, which was now glowing with eerie light. The very building around them began to bend and twist, it's shapes and angles distorting in nauseating ways that defied the rules of geometry. The ringleader struggled with all his might, but in vein as an unseen force took hold of his body, pulling it savagely; he was sucked into the pulsating vortex that had become of the scroll.

Panic set in and the witches sought to escape. Finding a way out of the wildly shifting and blending architecture was nearly impossible though, and the pull of the shadowy vortex grew stronger by every passing moment, hungrily swallong witches into it's yawning maw. It was through sheer luck that Tarim managed to avoid their fate, diving out through a distorted window. There was a violent trembling, and the entire building collapsed inwardly. When Tarim was able to gather his wits, there was nothing left but rubble, and atop that ruin the Black Scroll sat, having rolled itself closed again. Before he had time to do anything, a group of guards appeared, accompanied by an agent of the House of Iridescent Angles. That smug human casually collected the scroll, while the guards arrested Tarim, accusing him of the destruction of the building and of his colleagues. He was thrown into a detention cell and sentenced to die in thePulsetown Pits.
[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Stats]
[ooc]
[spoiler=Old changes (2010)]
July 15th:
* cast spells Deceptive Visage, Harden the Skin, Ray of Enfeeblement, Corrosive Lash
* activate tattoo Harden the Skin (permanent, so will be usable next day)
* -1 obelus (tip)
* -2 obeloi (meal)
* -6 obeloi (extra for barkeep)
* -5 obeloi (bribe the guards)
* +233 obeloi from loot
=> from 51 to 270 obeloi
* used 2 hellfire bombs
* +850 XP

July 20th:
* Spells prepared. Cast Vanishment.
* -15 obeloi for rent
* +31 obeloi (loot)
=> from 270 to 286 obeloi
* used 1 flesh melter
* +600 XP

July 27th:
* +454 obeloi from selling loot
=> from 286 to 740 obeloi
* 10 damage taken
=> 27-10=17 hp

July 29th:
* 1 Hellfire Bomb used
* 1 Flesh Melter used
* +1350 XP for servitors fight
* +5 XP for being super helpful ooc
* +100 XP for interrogating Needlefingers
* +50 obeloi for guarding the shrine
* -500 obeloi for a permanent 1st-level True Strike tattoo
=> from 740 to 290 obeloi

August 3rd:
* Healed 2 HP due to a night's rest
=> HP from 17 to 19
* Reverve points bring HP to full
=> HP goes from from 19 to 27, 8 reserve spent
* Spells prepared - some spells changed
* Daily eldritch tattoos recharged

August 10th:
* +6 HP to reserves from Hellcream drink
=> Reserve points go from 19 to 25
* -11 obeloi for food & drinks
* +50 obeloi for bringing Immanuel to Merris
=> From 290 to 329 obeloi
* Collar of Cadaverous Communion for bringing Immanuel to Merris
* +600 XP
=> Total XP is now 10,005, thus Level-up to 5th level Witch
* "Demon's Ego" bonus spell gained

August 11th:
* 8 damage taken
=> HP from 32 to 24
* acquired blunderbuss pistol and 23 charges + bullets
* +450 XP from the top floor scuffle
* +1000 XP for the charm spell and its results
=> Total XP is now 11,455

August 18th:
* a few vials of yellowish liquid, from the Masticator's asylum
* used permanent tattoo, True Strike
* used one-shot tattoos, Ray of Enfeeblement x2
* Used 1 flesh-melter
* Fired 1 bullet
* +265 obeloi
=> from 329 to 594 obeloi
* +1300 xp
=> Total XP is now 12,755

August 25th:
* Gained the spell Hideous Laughter
* +5 bonus XP for recalling the hunger-causing worm parasite thingy
=> from 12,755 to 12,760 XP total
* +500 obeloi for returning Glut's teeth
* -200 obeloi for adding Hideous Laughter to grimoire
* Purchased Entropic Shield, Mirror Image and Necrotic Cyst
* -750 obeloi for these 3 spells
* -100 obeloi placed as a bet on Gorethirst's victory over Izar
* Shopping for supplies:
* -10 obeloi for a tent
* -1 obelus for a bedroll
* -10 obeloi for rations for 20 days
* -1 obelus for 50 ft of hemp rope
=> from 594 to 22 obeloi total
* Spells prepared
* Healed 2 HP due to a night's rest
=> HP goes from 24 to 26
* Reverve points bring HP to full (32)
=> Reserve points drop from 19 to 13

August 28th:
* 1 Flesh-Melter used
* 1 Hellfire Bomb used
* Learned a way to summon the demon Pazzun
* +750 XP
=> Total XP upped to 13,510
* +2000 obeloi from the sword retrieval for Cräen
* -300 obeloi to cover the new eyes for Mr. Carver
=> Total money is now 1744 obeloi
* Used two days' rations
* Captured a grimoire from the Iridescent Angles scavenger party

August 31st:
* +500 obeloi from the Bloodthorn Clansmen
=> Total money is now 2244 obeloi
* +400 XP
=> Total XP is now 13,910
* Rested 8 hours, recovering 19 reserve points (from 13 to 32)
* New spells prepared

September 1st:
* +264 obeloi
=> Total money is 2508 obeloi
* 2 damage taken from the rotmist
* 5 damage taken from a fetch
* Used a Corrosive Lash tattoo
* +360 XP for the fetch battle
=> Total XP is 14,270
* Fired a bullet
* healed 5 hp during rest
* 2 hp healed from reserve points
* 2 reserve points recovered from rest

September 20th:
* Used a flesh-melter
* Fired a bullet
* +375 XP

September 22nd:
* -10 obeloi (gambling)
* +50 XP
=> Total XP is now 14,695

September 28th:
* +100 xp
=> Total XP is now 14,795

October 5th:
* Used a flesh-melter
* 8 Shock damage taken
=> Reserve points are down to 24
* +360 xp
=> Total XP is 15,155
=> Level up to 6th level Witch

Nov 8th:
* Fired a bullet
* +10 XP for fangs antics
* 1 Damage taken from familiar bite
* Received a pair of ornate bracers

Nov 15th:
* Fired a bullet
* Got 25 blunderbuss shots
* Got a repeating rifle
* Got a black gem from Carver, to be examined for sorcery
* 14 Damage taken
=> Reserve points down to 15
* +1500 XP
=> Total XP is now 16,665
* +1296 obeloi
=> Total money is now 3530 obeloi

[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Old changes (2011)]

March 7th (pre-game):
* Charsheet brought up to date.
* Reserve points reset, new spells prepared, etc.
* Spent 700 obeloi on learning new spells.
* Got 750 obeloi from working
* Spent 100 obeloi on living expenses
* Got 500 obeloi fro the statuette idol quest
=> Total money is now 3880 obeloi

March 7th (post-game):
* Cast Harden the Skin and Haste
* Fired a shot w/ the repeating rifle
* 5 points subdual (heat) damage taken
* 2 damage taken
* 1 con damage taken (con bonus goes down by 1, -6 hp)
=> Current HP is 30/32 (normally 38)

March 14th:
* took 4 damage and 1 Con damage
=> HP goes to 26/32 (normally 38)
=> With reserve points, it's now 32/32
* received 150 obeloi
=> Current money is 4030 obeloi
* 750 xp each for the goreflies quest
=> Current XP is 17,415
* Prepared new spells (assuming a chance to do so)

March 15th:
* 900 XP gained
=> Current XP is 18,315
* Found a damascened reddish dagger
* Found a grimoire
* Found a syringe of golden liquid
* Found 34 obeloi
=> Total money is now 4064 obeloi

March 30th:
* Spent 250 obeloi for a wounded giant tortoise, Onacha
=> Total money is now 3834 obeloi
* Stabling & feeding in the city will cost 1 obelus per day
* Used hemp rope to bind Immanuel; rope destroyed by an animated sword of jaws
* Used up an eldritch tattoo of Darkness
* 1400 XP gained
=> Current XP is 19,715

April 5th:
* Spells prepared before entering the catacombs
* 14 Damage taken (fall)
* Cast Lighten the Flesh from a tattoo

April 15th:
* Cast some spells
* Got 1 negative level
-> loss of 5 hit points
==> current HP is now 13/32
-> lose one spell from the highest spell level castable
==> lost Venomous Vapours

April 23rd:
* CON damage from gorgefly bite healed
=> HP is now 13/38
* 1600 XP gained
=> Current XP is 21,315
=> Level up to 7th level Witch
* Gained a new spell slot @ 1st, 2nd and 4th spell levels
* 4th level spell: Animate Dead
* 4th level spell: Black Tentacles
* Skills increased:
- Balance 1 (crossclass)
- Use Rope 1 (crossclass)
- Academia group 1
- Social group 1
* Level-up HP: to be rolled next game

April 25th, pre-game:
* New spells prepared
* 1/day tattoos recharged
* 19 reserve points to heal HP to max-5
=> total HP become 33/38, reserve points at 2/38
* 9 reserve points regenerated during rest
=> total reserve points go at 13/38
* Negative level removed
=> recover 5 HP
==> total HP becomes 38/38
* Highest level spell slot recovered
* Rolled 5 for level-up HP
=> Total HP is now 43/43, Reserve points are 18/43

April 25th, post-game:
* Learned two spells: Wall of Gloom and Wither Limb
* Got 250 obeloi (looted money from the trapped chest, divided 8 ways)
* Spent 8 obeloi on a glass of good wine
* Got 164 obeloi (looted treasure sold, money divided 7 ways)
* Bought various items for 151 obeloi
=> Total money is now 4089 obeloi

May 4th:
* Paying the beastmaster Shebb Greyghast 150 obeloi to tend to Onacha (forgot to add this earlier)
* Purchased Enervation and the Curse of the Putrid Husk, for 150+200 obeloi
* Wagered (and won) 100 bones on Kryz's arena fight
=> Total money is now 3689 obeloi
* Fatigued due to the howling of the watchdogs
* Preserve Organ, Read Hexes and Ghost Sound cantrips un-memorized due to the howling of the watchdogs

May 18th:
* Used a jar of oil
* Used a hellfire bomb
* Acquired a beetle automaton and a rune-inscribed gauntlet

May 31st:
* Cast Vanishment
* Rested; new spells prepared
* 9 reserve points regenerated during rest
=> Reserve points now at 27/43
* Cast Deceptive Visage
* Got 200 XP
=> Total XP is now  21,515

Jun 13th:
* Changed some of prepared spells
* Got 5 fragmentation grenades from the militia armoury
* Animated 7 zombies, 2HD each
* Got 250 xp
=> Total XP is now  21,765

Jun 21st:
* 2 zombies destroyed, one badly damaged
=> Currently 5 zombies

Jun 28th:
* Took 22 damage from acidic regurgitation
=> HP at 21/43
* Used a frag grenade
* Used a jar of oil
* Got 1050 XP
=> Total XP is now 22,815

Jul 5th:
* Remaining zombies dismissed
* Got 1000 obeloi
=> Total money is now 4689 obeloi
* New spells prepared
* Reserve points heal 22 HP
=> HP full, reserve points down to 5
* 24 hours of resting
=> Heal up to 2x(14+7) = 42 reserve points
==> Reserve point back to full

Jul 8th:
* Learned new spells: Night's Caress, Damning Darkness, Phantasmal Killer, Fear, Wall of Fire
* +300 XP for recovering lost memories
* +150 XP for overcoming fear
* +50 XP for glorious sadism
=> Total XP is now 23,315

Jul 10th:
* Added Molding the Flesh (Alter Self) to spellbook; an "off-screen" purchase before the Reaper's Feast for standard price of 2nd level spell (100 obeloi)
=> Total money is now 4589 obeloi

Jul 19th:
* Dexterity and Strength at +2 until sunrise
* got 875 XP
=> Total XP is now 24,190

July 26th:
* Got 250 XP
=> Total XP is now 24,440

August 2nd:
* 100 obeloi for escorting the hagmen envoy
=> Total money is now 4689 obeloi
* Used up a flask of oil
* Used a Flesh-Melter
* +657 XP
=> Total XP is now 25,097

August 11th:
* New spells prepared
* 4 damage taken
=> Hit Points at 39/43

August 18th:
* Used 2x Hellfire Bombs
* Got 780 XP
=> Total XP is now 25,877

August 25th:
* Rested 8 hours
=> 4 damage healed from reserve points
=> 4 reserve points regained from rest
==> Hitpoints and reserve points full
* Spent 5 obeloi for a room
=> Total money is now 4684 obeloi
* Got 250 XP
=> Total XP is now 26,127

August 30th:
* Got 1542 XP
=> Total XP is now 27,669

September 6th:
* Got 2000 XP
=> Total XP is now 29,669
=> Level up to 8th level Witch

September 15th:
* Got 200 XP
=> Total XP is now 29,869

October 6th:
* Got a bewitched stone idol figurine
* Got 48 drachmi
* Got 2250 XP
=> Total XP is now 32,119

October 13th:
* Spent 20 drachmi on lodging in 'The Rotten Goblet'
* Spent 2x 3 drachmi on boat rides
=> Total money is now 4684 obeloi + 22 drachmi
* Got 500 XP
=> Total XP is now 32,619

October 27th:
* Tossed 5 drachmi to leeches
=> Total money is now 4684 obeloi + 17 drachmi
* Gave a vial of Thrum to a ghul
* Got 500 XP
=> Total XP is now 33,119

November 2nd:
* Got a flintlock pistol & 72 drachmi
* Spent 20 drachmi for another day in 'The Rotten Goblet'
=> Total money is now 4684 obeloi + 69 drachmi
* Got 250 XP
=> Total XP is now 33,369


November 10th:
* Got 1050 XP
=> Total XP is now 34,419

November 24th:
* Used a Flesh-Melter to release a hagman prisoner

December 2nd:
* Took 14 damage, regained 10 hp from reserve points (Stoneskin reduced 35 damage)
* Took 37 heat damage
=> Current HP at 9/50, reserve points at 40/50
* Used 2 fragmentation grenades
* Got 1155 + 600 XP
=> Total XP is now 36,174
==> Level up to 9th level Witch
* Skills increased: Mysticism group, Social group, Balance, Swim
* Gained 1d4+2 HP (to be rolled on next game)

December 8th:
* Rolled 3 for level-up HP
* Got 2 drachmi
=> Total Money is now 4684 obeloi + 71 drachmi
* Got 1350 + 500 XP
=> Total XP is now 38,024

[/spoiler]
[spoiler=Recent changes (2012)]

January 31st:
* Got 1600 xp
=> Total XP is now 39,624
* 41 points from reserves to HP
* 11 points of reserves healed
=> Current HP is 53/53
=> Current Reserve Points is 13/53

February 6th:
* 11 points of reserves healed
=> Current Reserve Points is 24/53
* Got 6 fragmentation grenades from the legion's armoury
* Used 1 grenade
* Got 250 xp
=> Total XP is now 39,874

February 20th:
* Took 6 fire damage from a shroud assassin's spell
* 5 minutes to walk to the lighthouse
=> 6 points from reserves to HP
==> Current Reserve Points: 18/53
* Took 23 damage from the ravener's bite (stoneskin reduced 10)
=> Hit Points down to 30/53
* Used a grenade
* Got 2700 xp
=> Total XP is now 42,574

March 5th:
* Took 10 damage
=> Hit Points down to 20/53
* Got treasure worth 2750 obeloi
* Got 6900 XP
=> Total XP is now 49,474
==> Level up to 10th level Witch

March 19th:
* Recovered 34 reserve points from resting
* 33 HP healed from reserves
=> Total HP is now 53/53 (still need to roll for level-up)
=> Reserves are now at 19/53
* New spells prepared

April 3rd:
* Got 800 XP for helping out Vetter on his quest
=> Total XP is now 50,274
* Lost 11 obeloi to a pickpocket
* Sold  my 3 remaining vials of thrum for 1080 drachmi
=> Total money is now 4673 obeloi + treasure worth 2750 obeloi + 1151 drachmi
==> (will be 423 obeloi + 401 drachmi after paying the tattooing bill)

[/spoiler]
[/ooc]

Tarim ( Ghul Witch 10 )
STR 10 + 1 ....... = 11 (+-0)
DEX 10 + 4 ....... = 14 (+2)
CON 10 + 2 + 2 ... = 14 (+2)
INT 10 + 7 ... + 2 = 19 (+4)
WIS 10 + 5 ....... = 15 (+2)
CHA 10 + 3 - 2 ... = 11 (+-0)
(Point Buy) (Racial Modifier) (Level Up)
(INT raised at 4th level and 8th level)

XP: 50,274
Next level at: 55,000

Hit Points: 53/53 (+1d4+2+2)
Reserve Points: 19/53
Saving throws: +10
* Will: +12
* Fort: +12
* Ref: +12
BAB: +5
Melee attack: +5 (+4 in sunlight)
Ranged attack: +7 (+6 in sunlight)
BDB: +7
Weapon Proficiencies: club, dagger, heavy crossbow, light crossbow, quarterstaff, and firearms
Carrying Capacity: 38 / 76 / 115 lb
Initiative: +6

Abilities:
* Speed 30 ft
* Darkvision 60 ft.
* Immune to disease, aging, poison, and death effects
* Cannot receive organic grafts
* Natural Weapons: Claws 1d3, bite 1d4
* Light Sensitivity
* Carnivorous

Languages:
* Shambles (aka Magpie)
* Jangle
* Corpserattle (aka Morbis aka Carrion Tongue)
* Hextongue (aka Witchtongue)
* Hellspeak
* Glatch (aka Hagspeech)
* Serpentine
* Flicker

Traits:
* Master of Lore

Feat Masteries:
* Lore 6
* Tactics 5
* Social 5
* Other 3

Feats:
(2 feats at 1st level and 1 at every even level)
* Bound Demon (Summon familiar --> Imp) --> +3 to Knowledge (demonology) checks
* Craft Eldritch Tattoo (replacing Scribe Scroll)
* Craft Eldritch Tattoo, Expanded Mastery 2
* Combat Casting
* Improved Initiative
* Spell Penetration
* Still Spell (5th level bonus feat)
* Weapon Proficiency: Firearms (6th level feat)
* Greater Spell Penetration (8th level feat)
* Leadership??? (10th level feat)
* Silent Spell (10th level bonus feat)

Skills:

Academia group 11
* Appraise (Int), +15
* Concentration (Con), +13 (+17 when casting defensively or when grappling or pinned)
* Decipher Script (Int), +15 --> +2 on Use Magic Device checks involving written items
* Heal (Wis), +13
* Knowledge [Arcana] (Int), +15 --> +2 on Witchcraft checks
* Speak Language (Flicker) 1
Mysticism group 11
* Concentration (Con)
* Decipher Script (Int)
* Witchcraft (Int), +17
* Use Magic Device (Cha), +11 (+13 for written items)
Social group 11
* Bluff (Cha), +11
* Diplomacy (Cha), +11
* Gather Information (Cha), +11
* Intimidate (Cha), +11
Other skills
* Knowledge [Demonology] (Int) 9, +16 (a class skill)
* Spot (Wis) 4, +6
* Listen (Wis) 2, +4
* Sense Motive (Wis) 4, +6
* Ride (Dex) 1, +3
* Handle Animal (Cha) 1, +1; +9 on snakes (+8 bonus from serpent bracers)
* Balance 2, +4
* Use Rope 1, +3
* Swim 2, +2

Attack:
Claws: +5 1d3
Bite: +5 1d4
Dagger: +5 1d4
Blunderbuss Pistol: +7 2d8/x3
Repeating Rifle: +7 2d10/x3
Flesh Melter (Acid Flask): +7 1d6 acid direct hit, 1 splash damage
Hellfire Bomb (Alchemist's Fire): +7 1d6 fire direct hit + 1d6 following round, 1 splash damage

Defense:
+7 BDB
+2 DEX
+1 defense from serpent bracers
Active: 20 (+4 with Harden the Skin, +1 with Haste)
Passive: 11 (+4 with Harden the Skin, +1 with Haste)

Spells Known:
0th-level spells:
* All the standard cantrips
* Preserve Organ
1st-level spells:
* Adoration (Charm Person)
* Comprehend Languages
* Deceptive Visage (Disguise Self)
* Lighten the Flesh (Feather Fall)
* Blood Bait
* Harden the Skin (Mage Armor)
* Summon Black Steed (Mount)
* Ray of Enfeeblement
* Entropic Shield
* Unravel Hex (Identify)
2nd-level spells:
* Corrosive Lash (Acid Arrow)
* Darkness
* Vanishment (Invisibility)
* Plague of Vermin (Summon Swarm)
* Hideous Laughter
* Mirror Image
* Necrotic Cyst
* Spider Climb
* The Blade Hungers
* Grave Command (Command Undead)
* See Invisibility
* Desecrate
* Darkbolt
* Wall of Gloom
* Wither Limb
* Molding the Flesh (Alter Self)
3rd-level spells:
* Demon's Ego
* Haste
* Diabolic Eye
* Venomous Vapours (Stinking Cloud)
* Flight of the Vulture (Fly)
* Null Hex (Dispel Magic)
* Necrotic Bloat
* Curse of the Putrid Husk
4th-level spells:
* Animate Dead
* Black Tentacles
* Enervation
* Damning Darkness
* Phantasmal Killer
* Fear
* Wall of Fire
* Wicked Vanishment (Greater Invisibility)
* Stoneskin
5th-level spells:
* Night's Caress
* Eldritch Enslavement (Dominate Person)
* Summon Ghastly Servant (Summon Monster V)
* Wormhole (Teleport)
* Possession (Magic Jar)

Spells Memorized:
Cantrips:
* Ghost Sound
* Sense Witchery (Detect Magic)
* Read Hexes (Read Magic)
* Preserve Organ
1st-level spells:
* Blood Bait
* Harden the Skin (Mage Armor) (**USED**)
* Ray of Enfeeblement
* Entropic Shield
* Unravel Hex (Identify) (**USED**)
2nd-level spells:
* Darkness
* Vanishment (Invisibility) (**USED**)
* Mirror Image
* The Blade Hungers
* Wither Limb
3rd-level spells:
* Demon's Ego
* Haste
* Flight of the Vulture (Fly)
* Null Hex (Dispel Magic)
4th-level spells:
* Animate Dead
* Black Tentacles
* Wicked Vanishment (Greater Invisibility)
* Stoneskin (**USED**)
5th-level spells:
* Eldritch Enslavement (Dominate Person)
* Possession (Magic Jar)

Eldritch Tattoos:
(Cost is spell level x caster level x 50 obeloi, or spell level x caster level x 500 obeloi for a permanent tattoo)
* Harden the Skin (Mage Armor, permanent once/day, caster level 1) x1 (cost: 500)
* Lighten the Flesh (Feather Fall, permanent once/day, caster level 1) x1 (cost: 500)
* True Strike (permanent once/day, caster level 1)

Equipment & Money:
Weapons:
* 6 x Fragmentation Grenades (3d6 slashing): 6? lbs
* 3 x Flesh-Melters (Acid Flask): 3 lbs
* 2 x Hellfire Bombs (Alchemist's Fire): 2 lbs
* A Dagger: 1 lb
* Caltrops, 2 lbs
* A Blunderbuss Pistol: 6 lbs
* A Flintlock Pistol
* A repeating rifle: 10 lbs
* 7? bullets & charges
* (total 20 lbs)
Witchcraft:
* Grimoire: 3 lbs, -15 obeloi
* 1st Captured grimoire (Iridescent Angles ghul witch): 3 lbs
* 2nd Captured grimoire (Iridescent Angles human witch): 3 lbs
* 3rd Captured grimoire (assassin ghul witch): 3 lbs
* Tattoos: --
* Ghost Claw (wondrous item - Hand of the Mage): 2 lbs
* Collar of Cadaverous Communion (1 use/day)
* (total 14 lbs)
Scholarly Equipment:
* Magnifying Glass: --
* Scroll Case: 1/2 lb
* Ink & Quill: --
* 45 Sheets of Vellum: --
* (total 1/2 lb)
Luxuries:
* Flamboyant Caftan & Turban (cf. Noble's Outfit): 10 lbs
* Mirror: 1/2 lb
* Bottle of Fine Wine: 1½ lbs
* (total 10½ lbs)
Misc Stuff:
* An Eldritch Amplifier Gauntlet
* 50 ft of Silk Rope, 5 lbs
* Crowbar, 5 lbs
* Healing Kit (10 uses), 1 lb (1 used)
* Oil (2 flasks), 2 lbs
* Manacles, 2 lbs
* Liquid soap, 2 lbs
* A damascened reddish dagger (loot from assassin ghul witch), 1 lb
* A syringe of golden liquid (loot from assassin ghul witch)
* A pair of ornate serpent-bracers (from Yerroch), 1 lb?
* A few vials of yellowish liquid (Thrum) from the Masticator's asylum (1 given away so far)
* A sample specimen off a servitor (a piece of flesh containing glyphs)
* Tinderbox: --
* Haversack (cf. Backpack), 2 lbs
* Waterskin: 4 lbs
* Rooms in the Wormhive: --, -15 obeloi/month
* A bedroll: 2 lbs
* (total 27 lbs)
TOTAL: 72 lbs

On Onacha:
* A beetle automaton
* Rations for 19 days: 19 lbs
* Mount Feed (19 days), 190 lbs
* A tent: 20 lbs
* (these items are carried by the tortoise so they don't count toward my total equipment weight)

MONEY: 4673 obeloi + treasure worth 2750 obeloi + 1151 drachmi


[spoiler=Familiar]
[ooc]Fangs here is, regrettably, not very original. I admit I took quite a bit of inspiration from Brown Jenkins, a witch's rattish familiar from a H.P. Lovecraft story. Just love the aesthetic, and didn't want to stick with a generic Imp.[/ooc]

Fangs (Familiar)
'Fangs' is a small mischievous demon enslaved to do as Tarim bids. He has the body of a rat, covered in coarse brown fur, but a pale and hairless humanoid head with large round bloodshot eyes and a pair of needle-like horns protruding from the forehead. A rodentile tail as long as the rest of the body drags lazily behind him. In place of forelegs he has tiny arms, like those of a human child. Black leathery wings sprout from his back. Fangs is vampiric and has no teeth other than a set of sharp canines.

Tiny Outsider
HP: 13
Initiative: +3
Speed: 20 ft., fly 50 ft. (perfect)
Defence: 20 (+2 size, +3 Dex, +5 natural), touch 15, flat-footed 17
Base Attack/Grapple: +3/-5
Attack: Sting +8 melee (1d4 plus poison)
Full Attack: Sting +8 melee (1d4 plus poison)
Space/Reach: 2½ ft./0 ft.
Special Attacks: Poison, spell-like abilities
Special Qualities: Alternate form, damage reduction 5/good or silver, darkvision 60 ft., fast healing 2, immunity to poison, resistance to fire 5
Saves: Fort +3, Ref +6, Will +4
Abilities:    Str 10, Dex 17, Con 10, Int 10, Wis 12, Cha 14
Skills: Diplomacy +8, Hide +17, Knowledge (any one) +6, Listen +7, Move Silently +9, Search +6, Spellcraft +6, Spot +7, Survival +1 (+3 following tracks)
Feats: Dodge, Weapon Finesse

An imp's natural weapons, as well as any weapons it wields, are treated as evil-aligned and lawful-aligned for the purpose of overcoming damage reduction.

Poison (Ex)
Injury, Fortitude DC 13, initial damage 1d4 Dex, secondary damage 2d4 Dex. The save DC is Constitution-based and includes a +2 racial bonus.

Spell-Like Abilities
At will'"detect good, detect magic, invisibility (self only); 1/day'"suggestion (DC 15). Caster level 6th. The save DC is Charisma-based.

Once per week an imp can use commune to ask six questions. The ability otherwise works as the spell (caster level 12th).

Alternate Form (Su)
An imp can assume another form at will as a standard action. Each imp can assume one or two forms from the following list: Small or Medium monstrous spider, raven, rat, and boar.
[/spoiler]
[/spoiler]

Mummified magus hand called Ghost Claw?  Yeah that fits!

And Brown Jenkins is about the creepiest thing in Dreams of the Witch House.

So, we've got a fairly variegated party: a ghul witch trying to reclaim his former glory lost to amnesia, an occult sharpshooter with links to the most cutthroat Robber Guild in Macellaria, a footpad and city rat trying to lose his humanity, a disgraced nobleman with gruesome appetites and a genius intellect, and a carrion-eating bird-man bard!

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowLlum, reading your abilities over again, it seems you might have just bought them on a 1-for-1 basis?

What do you mean? As a Man-At-Arms I get to choose 3 Skill groups (Perception, Robbery and Academia). After buying those 3 out I still had skill points left over, so I bought some more skills individually.

Crow, you might be being thrown by the Headband of Intellect, which boosts Hungermoth's Int to 20 (17 requires 9 points, +1 for Hungermoth's level 4 ability boost, +2 from the Headband = 20).

Alright so I just noticed that I have a medium load. I do not want that at all. So, is there some sort of thing I could purchase that could carry my stuff? I mean, ya I could get a donkey, but it seems so beneath a highborn (even exiled) to use one.

Maybe some kind of servitor? What do you think Steerpike? My idea is some kind of sword servitor that walks behind me carrying my sword. Then in combat I'd drop my noble outfit and take my sword from my servitor (The servitor would pick up the haori).

Quote from: SteerpikeThe nobility are distinguished first and foremost by the clothing. Silk is the most common material for clothing, although velvet, fur, cloth-of-gold, lace, and satin are also worn. In contrast with the dull colours of the lower classes the wealthy wear clothing in as vibrant and scintillating hues as possible, frequently with very ornate patterning and embroidering. Silk shirts with leather vests, breeches, and high leather boots are common for men, often worn under a flaring knee-length coat. For women, long gowns are the norm, often with low necklines and clinging fabrics (though gowns are usually still ankle-length). Both sexes wear their hair long or else wear powdered wigs. The upper class are also distinguished by their distinctive masks or veils of fine silk, which are always worn in public as a mark of status; they also wear large hats, often tricornes for men. Magisters and magistra '" the true nobility '" and a few individuals of equivalent status all bear the traditional glyph-graven silver manacle around their wrist (usually the left) with a silver chain running from the shackle to the collar of his familiar, a demon he or she has summoned themselves [This assumes the magister has the proper training - obviously your character missed that, perhaps leaving before his first summoning]. Jewellery is often lavish and is worn by both men and women, often incorporating precious gems such as bloodstones, carnelians, opals, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies [this would work perfectly with your headband, which I was imagining as a family heirloom]. Young men always go clean-shaven, and older men very occasionally sport well-trimmed goatees.

So, sort of somewhere between asian and Restoration British. Fuse a Samurai with a 17th century libertine and you have roughly how I imagine the magisters: arrogant but disciplined, doggedly atheistic but almost paradoxically spiritually aware (demonology), invested both in the worlds of extreme hedonism and in honor. Of course, your character might be reacting to much of this

Alright, for my noble outfit I'm picturing something like this: Black leather vest embossed with intricate patterns of clockwork gears and silkmoths picked out in silver. On top of that a large silken haori in riotus red, violet and yellow that falls to his knees. Leather breeches made from a deep crimson leather tucked into black boots embossed with patterns to match the vest also picked out in silver. A silver torc is clasped about his neck fashioned into the likeness of a horde of wasps with eyes picked out in carnelians and locusts with eyes picked out in bloodstones. About his left wrist is a silver manacle graven with frosty blue glyphs from wich hang several feathers, charms and a miniature length of chain. He also sports a modest tricorn with a handfull of silver plumes.

Quote from: SteerpikeMummified magus hand called Ghost Claw?  Yeah that fits!

And Brown Jenkins is about the creepiest thing in Dreams of the Witch House.

Cool. I'd still like to know exactly which skill groups a Witch can access?

-Thank you for the clarification Steerpike and Crow. I did not realize that Arcanist == Iron Heroes Wizard so I had thought it was in addition to the witch.

-I am considering doing something foolish and advancing as such: Bard 1/Witch 2/LA 1 for now and then take one level of Thief next level. (Good advice about the Thief, by the way, Steerpike) It just seems to suit my concept of the fellow- a dabbling, jabbering, inconsistent, worrying, fiendish bird.

-Speaking of the 1LA... You are probably better at balancing than I am but I am not certain that a Jatayi really needs a 1 LA. The 30 ft. Fly partially justifies it, and they do get one more trait than most of the monstrous races, but they do not receive any ability boosts. Are you certain that they should have 1 LA?

-Modified and improved character sheet and added background.

[ic]Coming from Skein, the Clockwork City, this Clockwork Jatayi Witch lived far from the main brood; the Jatayi Fablers come from Macellaria while Cacaphonous Whisper-of-the-Desert, "Wispy", was raised by a half-mad, drug-addled sapfiend hen who was exiled from the tribe because she trafficked with demons and did unspeakable things each moon-lit night.

Wispy arrived near Macellaria with ruffled feathers, a contract out on him and a holy sword he 'borrowed' from his last adventuring ally, who he thinks he left to die lost and alone in the desert.

Wispy is always ready to run, to dance, to disappear when trouble gets too dire and he is prepared to endure great privations in order to survive.
[/ic]

-Pretty obvious why he's probably in the pits...

- Another Question:

How much should something like this cost?

Jatayi Bolts
(Basically hand crossbows that can be concealed in feathers and potentially dual wielded... That is, two could shoot in the first round, then you'd have to manually load them afterwards at the usual speed for loading crossbows.)

I assume they should cost about 150 gp each and are only usable by Jayati due to their particular physiognomy.

I imagine them dealing 1d6 rather than 1d4 damage, but in all other respects (including range) being the same as regular crossbows. I also imagine them depending on dexterity for damage rather than strength.

What do you think? In full open disclosure, this would mean that my Bard/Witch can deal 1d6+3 / 1d6+3 damage in the first shot, but then has to reload (does that take a full round action or a move equivalent action? If it is move equivalent, in round 2 he reloads one and casts a spell). I do not think this is game breaking or twinking... and It looks really neat. Imagine a bird "crossbow-slinger" walking into a bar, shooting people on his right and left, then dazing the rest, retreating and hiding, then tossing out dancing lights to distract everyone, and shooting two again.

Ok! I finally sort of have my character worked out from a fluff perspective. I still need to finish up the stats and stuff, I'll update as I work on that.

I'm unsure if I got the masterwork pricing right. I was under the impression it was 300 for a weapon and 150 for your armour or a shield.

[ic]
Kaius Alexander
Human (Insomnolent)
Level Four Armiger

Hit Points: 54

Combat Stuff: Check Penalty: -6 (w/ full plate and heavy shield), Passive Defense Bonus: 3 (w/ heavy steel shield), Active Defense Bonus: 4, BAB: 7, RBAB: 5

Stats: Strength: 16, Dexterity: 12, Constitution: 19, Wisdom: 10, Intelligence: 12, Charisma: 10

Feat Mastery: Armour: 3, Power: 2, Tactics: 1

Traits: Brave, Resilient Toughness

Class Abilities: Armour Mastery, Tough as Nails, Armoured Trap (Armour Pool), Uncanny Dodge

Skills: Craft Clockwork: 7, Craft Armor: 7, Swim: 7, Climb: 7, Jump: 7, Intimidate: 7, Balance: 7, Spot: 5, Disable Device: 4, Tumble: 3 Listen: 2

Feats: Diehard, Weapon Proficiency: Firearms, Armour Mastery: 1 (not to be confused with Armour Mastery), Weapon Focus: Longsword 2

Languages: Shambles, Morbis

Equipment:

209 Obeloi

Insomnolent Guard Standard Field Kit:

Masterwork Full Plate Armour (1650 obeloi, 50 lbs), Masterwork Heavy Shield, Steel (170 obeloi, 15 lbs), Masterwork Revolver (950 obeloi, 3 lbs), Masterwork Longsword (315 obeloi, 4 lbs), Box of 150 bullets (15 obeloi, 3 lbs), Dagger (2 obeloi, 1 lb), Baton (2 obeloi, 2 lbs), Handaxe (3 lbs, 6 obeloi)

Guards Insomnolent combat uniform (15 obeloi, 5 lbs), Backpack (2 obeloi, 2 lbs), Bedroll and Blanket (2 obeloi, 8 lbs), Steel canteen x 2 (2 obeloi, 2 lbs.) Steel cookware (1 obeloi, 2 lbs), 10 days of field rations (5 obeloi, 10 lbs), Collapsible shovel (10 obeloi, 5 lbs), Flint and steel (1 obeloi, 0 lbs) Rope, 50 feet (10 obeloi, 5 lbs), Bullseye Lantern (12 obeloi, 3 lbs) Flask of lantern oil (1 obeloi, 1 lb)

Nonstandard Equipment: Artisan's Tools, masterwork (55 obeloi, 5 lbs), Lady Genevieve's Gift (???, 0 lbs.)

Total Weight: 129 lbs.
Total Value: 3221 obeloi.

Carrying Capacity: Due to Tough as Nails a light load for Kaius is 173 lbs. or less.

Physical Description: Though he has spent many years in the south, Kaius's skin remains unnaturally pale. His hair is light brown and close cropped, excepting the front which is spiked upwards. Standing several inches short of six feet, he still seems to loom over everyone else in the room. Layered over his hardened frame are a multitude of scars, proof of years of unforgiving training. His every movement is calculated and deliberate. When outside of his armour Kaius wears a set of unremarkable and well-worn grey fatigues. His face is expressionless. Staring into his icy blue eyes, you try to find evidence of human emotion. It does not surprise you when you see none.

Brief History: Born into the Machiavellian world of the Lords and Ladies Revenant there are few cruelties Kaius has not witnessed in his life. His childehood was spent in relative luxury and isolation in the vast palace complexes of Somnambulon. That is until, on the morning of his eight birthday, it was determined that Kaius would be an unsuitable host. There is but one recourse for a childe such as he: deliverance into the brutal hands of the Insomnolent Guard. Bodies and minds altered by a horrific pharmaceutical regimen, the Insomnolent are unswerving in their loyalty to their Lord or Lady and their House. Though many are claimed by the training, or are driven mad by the drugs, Kaius managed to survive. Forged into a living weapon, Kaius was assigned to the protection and service of one Lady Genevieve. He would serve her faithfully.  

[/ic]

I also wrote a little bit about Kaius's last day before being dragged off to the pits, just to help me get a feel for the character. My formatting is terrible, you have been warned.

[spoiler]                                                    His Last Waking Day

Even this late in the day the heat was oppressive. Kaius leaned against the crumbling stucco wall. Motes of dust danced in the light cast by the setting sun. The witch hovered over Lady Genevieve, moving his hands in seemingly random patterns, muttering under his breath. Kaius watched impassively from the doorway. The witch straightened 'There is nothing I can do for her. The parasite inside her ails. Her body will not last much longer' he said. He approached Kaius 'Of course, there is still the matter of my fee'. The witch smiled, extending his hand. Kaius exhaled slowly.

'You will save My Lady. If not, then your only hope is that you can save yourself' said Kaius. Seeing the cruel intent written on Kaius's face the witch's smile faltered; he moved quickly to one side, trying to dart from the room. He found his path blocked. The witch stumbled backwards.

'You fucking gleetworm. When this old bitch dies you're gonna be nothing!' he sputtered. Kaius advanced. The witch began intoning an incantation. He was interrupted by Kaius's fist slamming into his jaw. The witch went sprawling, blood leaking from his face. Snarling, he drew a dagger as he picked himself up. The witch lunged at Kaius, aiming for the heart; Kaius blocked the thrust with his forearm. His face registered nothing as the blade sank into him.  He grabbed the witch by the throat  and dragged him to the open window. 'You'll hang for this, scum'  the witch hissed; spitting in Kaius's face.  Kaius snorted derisively. He let go. The witch's scream was cut short quickly by a sickening crunch. Kaius withdrew the dagger and threw it across the room; blood pooled on the floor. He sighed as he sat down heavily in an old chair at Lady Genevieve's bedside. She smiled as he placed a damp cloth on her forehead.

'My Lady. There is no one else who will come. Our so-called friends abandon us. I know not what to do... I have failed you.' Lady Genevieve coughed weakly as she scrabbled at Kaius's clenched fist; he opened his hand. Into it she placed a small leather bag. Kaius emptied it into his palm. Inside was a jet black spheroid no bigger than a grape. It felt almost as if it was exuding an aura of.. active curiousity. This unnerved him; he swiftly placed the orb back into its pouch. 'My Lady, what do you wish of me? I do not understand.' he said. She looked directly into his eyes but said nothing. Kaius leaned back in the chair.    

Kaius awoke with a start, grasping at the the dregs of a dream just beyond remembrance. Cursing at himself for falling asleep, he lurched to his feet and scanned the room. Lady Genevieve was unmoving. 'My Lady?' he called. Staring at her supine form the grim reality slowly dawned on him. His Mistress was dead. Of all the deaths he had experienced, this was the only one Kaius did not know how to deal with. He felt numb '" listless; his purpose in life was gone. Gingerly, he picked up the corpse of Lady Genevieve. Slowly, so slowly, he ascended the dingy stone staircase that led to the roof. Though he could not match the grand funerals of Somnambulon, he did what he could. Covering his Lady in a white sheet, he reverently doused her in oil. Reopening the wound on his left arm, he dripped the blood lengthwise down the sheet. Dripping some into his hand, he spiked the front of his hair into a crest of mourning. He was no longer of the Insomnolent, and would not be again until he served a new master of the lineage. He lit the flame. Hours passed. Kaius stared into it until only ashes were left.

His rumination was interrupted by the sound of footsteps on the stairs. The sun was rising. The door opened.  A group of armed men and ghilan lazily swaggered out onto the roof.

'Well if it ain't the bitch's pet maggot. Fuckin' stupid making a mess out of Gjani like that, now that she ain't around.' the leading ghul smirked as he talked. 'Gonna be the pits for you, and consider yourself fuckin' lucky.' the ghul hefted a pair of heavy manacles. Kaius remembered the orb. It was clear now that his Lady had entrusted it to him for one final task. He would just have to find out what that was. 'I serve My Lady yet. I will not be taken.' said Kaius. There were snorts and laughs from the group as they began to fan out around him. 'Thanks for the present, maggot. I'm gonna enjoy this' said the first ghul, and he lunged. The sword scored along Kaius's ribs, digging in to one of them. The ghul was off balance; Kaius stepped in smoothly and snapped his foe's neck with a grating twist. The nearest man fired a shot point blank into Kaius's shoulder; he fumbled for his blade. Kaius delivered an open palmed hit to the bridge of the pistolier's nose. He reeled backwards, clutching his bleeding face. Kaius turned, looking for the next threat. A stout wooden club was swinging for his face.[/spoiler]

[blockquote=Ligh Dragon]-Speaking of the 1LA... You are probably better at balancing than I am but I am not certain that a Jatayi really needs a 1 LA. The 30 ft. Fly partially justifies it, and they do get one more trait than most of the monstrous races, but they do not receive any ability boosts. Are you certain that they should have 1 LA?[/blockquote]They should!  I'm not sure why I didn't have that on there - even mantids have an LA +1 for their crappy flight speed, the jatayi definitely need LA+1.  Thanks for catching that!
[blockquote=Light Dragon]Jatayi Bolts
(Basically hand crossbows that can be concealed in feathers and potentially dual wielded... That is, two could shoot in the first round, then you'd have to manually load them afterwards at the usual speed for loading crossbows.)

I assume they should cost about 150 gp each and are only usable by Jayati due to their particular physiognomy.

I imagine them dealing 1d6 rather than 1d4 damage, but in all other respects (including range) being the same as regular crossbows. I also imagine them depending on dexterity for damage rather than strength.

What do you think? In full open disclosure, this would mean that my Bard/Witch can deal 1d6+3 / 1d6+3 damage in the first shot, but then has to reload (does that take a full round action or a move equivalent action? If it is move equivalent, in round 2 he reloads one and casts a spell). I do not think this is game breaking or twinking... and It looks really neat. Imagine a bird "crossbow-slinger" walking into a bar, shooting people on his right and left, then dazing the rest, retreating and hiding, then tossing out dancing lights to distract everyone, and shooting two again. [/blockquote]I can't OK the Dexterity adds to damage thing, since the Archer actually gets that as a class ability, so giving it for free to wielders of that weapon seems to shortchange the Archer.  Everything else looks OK, though: a Hand Crossbow that deals 1d6 damage for 150 obeloi and counts as an exotic weapon does not seem game breaking in the slightest.

[blockquote=Ghostman]
Cool. I'd still like to know exactly which skill groups a Witch can access?[/blockquote] Sorry!  here they are: Academia, Mysticism, Social, and Theatrics.

[blockquote=Llum] Maybe some kind of servitor? What do you think Steerpike? My idea is some kind of sword servitor that walks behind me carrying my sword. Then in combat I'd drop my noble outfit and take my sword from my servitor (The servitor would pick up the haori).[/blockquote]For 150 obeloi I'll let you have a servitor stitched together in the tissue-shops of Macellaria.  He can't fight, only haul gear, and counts as a medium zombie in all other respects.

Alternatively you could go for a clockwork automaton, which are common in Skein, but expensive.  Not sure what the stats of that one would be, but we could come up with some; however, I think one of these would be a minimum 500 obeloi, just for a basic model.

In either case, may I suggest a name for the hapless beast of burden: "Scabbard."  Also, I love the clothing descriptions - exactly how I'd imagine them.

Finally, well done Meanest Guest!  Kaius looks great, and the short story is brilliant.  All the masterwork stuff looks like it's been done perfectly.

QuoteI'm not sure why I didn't have that on there - even mantids have an LA +1 for their crappy flight speed, the jatayi definitely need LA+1. Thanks for catching that!

Actually you did have that on there. Okay re the LA +1. I built the character with that LA in mind, so no changes are necessary on my end there, but I look at leechkin for example and it seems that they receive a lot of bonuses for no LA. Now, flying can be useful if people can't reach you with their arrows, but I would assume that leechkin should by the same argument have a +1LA due to their bonuses in water, their ability bonus, and extra bonuses. As long as someone does not make a CHA based character, the -4 to CHA does not really hurt them. (Although they do not earn traits and they walk at 20 feet).

I will fix up the weapon as per your suggestion. I will just have to remember to purchase bolts that have +1 damage :).

Another question: Will we have action points a la Eberron, perchance?

Once again: Congratulations on the amount of work it took to put this system together. The Iron Heroes base system is intriguing and seems to be a good fit.

Quote from: Light Dragon

QuoteI'm not sure why I didn't have that on there - even mantids have an LA +1 for their crappy flight speed, the jatayi definitely need LA+1. Thanks for catching that!

Actually I'd be willing to say the Leechkin is somewhat underpowered. They are slower than normal, they do not gain traits (wich are really big in IH) and +2/-4 isn't that great compared to the other races +2/-2.

The best race without a LA would probably be the Ghilan IMO. Immunity to poison, disease and aging. +2 con which is good for everyone. Non-background trait (a lot more variety that just background traits).

Llum,

You can gain traits over time? Not just at level 1 in Iron heroes?

You can only gain traits at level 1.

It's funny, I was just talking about the leechkin with Llum (in fact I just upped their Con drain to 1d2 instead of just 1): they seem to have polarized people.  I thought that the drawbacks of the 20 ft. speed and in particular the Bloodthirst would make up for their natural attacks.  They're a tricky bunch, and probably hard  to play, especially since I've written them to be a biologically and culturally hyper-lazy people (literally parasites), which makes it difficult to imagine them as adventurers.

Every flying race I've seen has always had an LA of +1 - it does kind of remove the threat of certain hazards and allow obstacles that are otherwise treacherous (such as a cliff) to be effortless overcome.  I agree it doesn't seem like a big deal, but I think it is more useful than most imagine at first.  I love the character by the way, particularly his name!

Things might get interesting if the group runs into the jatayi currently camped outside Macellaria.  They normally move on to Crepuscle this time of year, but they've been staying an unseasonably long length of time...

[blockquote=Light Dragon]Another question: Will we have action points a la Eberron, perchance?

Once again: Congratulations on the amount of work it took to put this system together. The Iron Heroes base system is intriguing and seems to be a good fit.
[/blockquote] Thank you!  It was a bit disorganized at first, but its come together quite nicely, I hope.  Thanks to everyone for posting questions so that I didn't miss anything.

There may be something called "Glory Points" which an IH expansion suggests adding.  I may create my own variant tailored to CE.

The Gorethirst
[spoiler=Dead]
[spoiler=Stats]
Leechkin Berzerker 5
13800 xp
STR: 20 [+5]
DEX: 14 [+2]
CON: 18 [+4]
INT: 12 [+1]
WIS: 10 [+0]
CHA: 4 [-3]

HP:
HP: 70
Reserve Points: 35

Languages
Shambles
Leechdance

Feat Mastery
Other Mastery: 1
Armor Mastery: 2
Power Mastery: 3

Traits:
Bloodthirsty (Acquired from dining on the blood of a Fetch)

Feats:
Improved Initiative
Run
Armor Mastery
Sudden Strike(Greataxe)
Martial Proficiency(Scimitar)
Martial Proficiency(Greataxe)
Martial Proficiency(Lance)

Special:
-Fury Pool
-Uncanny Dodge
-Berzerker Damage Reduction(1d4)
-Berzerker Ability: Berzerk Strength(1st)
-Berzerker Ability: Blind Rage(5th)
-Berzerker Ability: Berzerk Mind(1st)
-Berzerker Ability: Primal Howl (DC 17)(3rd)

Abilities:
Aquatic Subtype
+2 Hide in swampy vegetation
+4 Swim
Amphibious
Naturals Weapons: Bite (1d4) x2 (one primary, one secondary)
Blood Drain(Ex)
Haematophage
Blood Scent

Skills:
Athletics
-Swim(Str): 8+5+4 = 17
-Jump(Str): 8+5+2 = 15
-Climb(Str): 8+5 = 13
Ride(Dex): 8+2+2 = 12
Tumble(Dex): 8+2+2 = 12
Craft(Goldsmith)(Int): 6+1 = 7
Knowledge(language): 1
Survival(Wis): 1+0 = 1
Handle Animal(Cha): 8-3 = 5

Combat:
Natural Weapon(Bite): +10[+5 BAB +5 Str] (1d4+5[+5 Str])
Natural Weapon(Bite)x2 + (Gore)x1: +10/+5/+5[+5 BAB +5 Str] (1d4+5[+5 Str]/1d4+5[+5 Str]/1d6+3[+3 Str])
Masterwork Battleaxe: +11[+5 BAB +5 Str +1 Mwk] (1d12+7[+7 Str])
Masterwork Lance: +11[+5 BAB +5 Str +1 Mwk] (1d8+5[+5 Str]) x2 on Charge
Scimitar x2: +4/+0[+5 BAB +5 Str] (1d6+5[+5 Str]/1d6+5[+5 Str])
Defense: 15 (3 BDB + 2 Dex)
Armor: Berzerker DR: 1d4+1/magic
Initiative: +6
Saves: +5
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Inventory]
Money:
656 obeloi

Items:
Gorethirst Manacles
The Helm of Urus
Masterwork Greataxe 12lbs
Masterwork Lance 10lbs
Scimitar x 2 8lbs
Quentin's Signet Ring
Glut's Teeth

General Supplies:
Goldsmiths Kit, Masterwork(Arisans kit, Masterwork) 5lbs
Sack 1/2lbs
Robe, Silk 250ft 25lbs
Peasant's Outfit 2lbs
Blood soaked Tattered Web cloak x2 2lbs

Total Weight: 64 1/2 lbs

Other:
Dire Maggot, heavy war mount
Dire Maggot saddle
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Magic Items]
Bloodslake Manacles(Bracers of Sustenance
These two dark Ur-fossil manacles are graven with deep indigo glyphs and pulse as if with their own hearbeat. The edges of these manacles are plated in gold leaf to look like razor teeth, the quality of the leaf plating is inferior to the original Ur-fossil craftmanship and it is quite obvious that it was done later by a less experienced hand. The manacles were originally made by Leechkin shamans in Lophius for the Gorethirst to slack its seemingly endless thirst for blood. Permanetly attached to the Gorethirsts wrists by bronzen nails driven through its wrists they constantly drip blood down the Gorethirst wrists that is hungrily drinks with its hand-mouths.
The Helm of Urus
A helm made of solid black bone that glistens in the sepia lamplight.  The helm has no visor but is carved to resemble a monstrous visage with an open maw.  Wicked horns sprout from the temples. Acquired from Mara of the Dogskull Clan for killing Glut and his Masticators.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Fluff]
The Gorethirst is a barrelchested leechkin with black skin with green mottling down its left side. Its hands, chest and head are greatly scarred from enemies fighting back while being drained of their lifeblood. Ur-fossil manacles are clasped about its wrists, they weep blood constantly dripping into the Gorethirsts hungry hand-mouths. Other than its manicles it wraps it feet with cloth as impromptu boots, wears a slitted leather kilt ornamented with gold leaf around its waist. It's only concession to vanity is a golden tooth-edged tattoo that spirals across its chest, down its right side and down its spindly right leg.

The Gorethirst was originally from Lophius. Different from most leechkin it wasn't terribly apathetic displaying a greater thirst for blood than any of its kind save those taken by the psychotic bloodthirst. Finding work as a gladiator in the fighting pits to earn money for blood. It often finished defeated fows by draining their blood, leaving them dessicated husks. Reviled by most of its kindred for its work effort, it had little to do with the beggars of Lophius. The Gorethirst had more in common with its fellow gladiators, although it wasn't much loved by them because of its habit of draining defeated foes. Driven by its unaturally strong thirst it went to the many leechkin shamans in Lophius to plead for help, it was ignored by most and sent away with threats by the rest.

It wasn't until it went into a berzerk rage, similar to the psychotic bloodthirst but slightly different, in a pirate bar down in Bile-Mire killing several pirates as well as a group of hagmen (who started the fight) that the shamans took notice. Somewhat worried about repercussions against leechkin from several gangs that lost members as well as the many city hagmen, they crafted the Bloodslake manacles from rare imported Ur-fossil. After they pounded the last nail through the manacles securing them in place they exiled the Gorethirst from Lophius telling it not to cause them anymore trouble.

Following its exile it slowly wandered across the Cadaverous Earth.Even with its hunger sated by its manacles, it found itself different from other leechkin, a lifetime driven by overpowering thirst had burned away most of the traditional leechkin apathy. Eventually it ended up in Macellaria drawn to another city with a large leechkin populace. It found home in The Catacombs amongst the leechkin and cestoids. It was slowly being drawn back to the life of fighting pits after conversing with and befriending some cestoid gladiators. Arrested after partially draining a Kennel-Master apprentice in yet another bar fight, it now finds itself back at home, where it belongs, in the fighting pits.

Not long after its exile from Lophius Gorethirst attempted to settle down into a less violent lifestyle. Apprenticed to a goldsmith Gorethirst worked at the craft, gaining a modicum of skill before the urge to travel and thirst for battle forced it to continue on its journey. Not long after leaving its apprenticeship, the Dire Maggot Corpsegobble was won in a fight.
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Corpsegobble(Large Dire Maggot Mount)]
Dire Maggot, Large
HD:                     4   
Size/Type:            Large Vermin    
Hit Points:            16    
Initiative:            +2    
Speed:               40 ft. (8 squares), climb 40 ft.    
Defense:            14 (-1 size, +2 Dex, +3 natural), touch 11, flat-footed 12    
Base Attack             +3
Grapple:            +8    
Attack:            Bite +4 melee (1d8+3 plus poison)    
Full Attack:            Bite +4 melee (1d8+3 plus poison)    
Space/Reach:            10 ft./5 ft.    
Special Attacks:    Poison    
Special Qualities:    Darkvision 60 ft., vermin traits    
Saves:                    Fort +4, Ref +3, Will +1    
Abilities:            Str 17, Dex 15, Con 10, Int Ø, Wis 10, Cha 2    
Skills:            Climb +11, Hide +6, Spot +4    
Feats:                    Weapon Finesse(Bite)    
Environment:            Underground    
Organization:            Solitary or colony (2-5)    
Challenge Rating:    1
Advancement:            4-5 HD (Large)
Level Adjustment:    '"
Poison:                 Fort DC: 11 Damage: 1d4 Dexterity
[/spoiler]
[/spoiler]

Quote from: Light DragonLlum,

You can gain traits over time? Not just at level 1 in Iron heroes?

No, I meant they do not gain any at all. They get none at character creation.

OK, Gorethirst is freaking AWESOME.  Love the manacles... very inventive way of overcoming the thirst!

1. Llum- Ok.

2. Steerpike- Sadly another question. Since I am at LA 1; do I gain racial HD levels for HP? That is, do I gain another 4 or 5 HP because of my race. (I was comparing HP and noticed that I had quite a bit less than the other characters.)

3. Would you like me to email you (I assume there is an email address in your profile) a word document with everyone's characters in a formatted sense?

I was trying to compare characters and found it much easier to place it in a word document with table of contents (as I have been doing bit-by-bit with Cadaverous Earth). There is a lot of reading material there (at last count over 20 pages) (!)

4. Re: Glory points and flying. Thank you.

[blockquote=Llum]Leechkin Warmout, heavy. It doesn't make a ton of sense for a leechkin to ride a horse around (for me anyway), so I was wondering if there was a more flavourfull variant.[/blockquote]Hmm, leechkin come from jungles and swamps - not terrain well suited to riders.  Some possibilities, though:

- Giant spider!  Bred by the lilix as mounts, sometimes sold in the other cities. Treat as a large monstrous spider (in the SRD).

- A dire maggot.  These things are sometimes used to pull carriages, and I had a character ride on in a short story.  Treat as a large monstrous centipede (also in the SRD).

- Some kind of bizarre, stitched-together, fleschrafted mount-thing with too many limbs.  Treat as a zombie warhorse.  I might charge you 50 obeloi more for this one, though,

- A mechanical horse or other riding animal, powered by a bound demon in the furnace.  Not sure how we`d stat this - probably like a construct warhorse.  Again, this one`d be about 50 obeloi more.

[blockquote=Light Dragon]2. Steerpike- Sadly another question. Since I am at LA 1; do I gain racial HD levels for HP? That is, do I gain another 4 or 5 HP because of my race. (I was comparing HP and noticed that I had quite a bit less than the other characters.)

3. Would you like me to email you (I assume there is an email address in your profile) a word document with everyone's characters in a formatted sense?

I was trying to compare characters and found it much easier to place it in a word document with table of contents (as I have been doing bit-by-bit with Cadaverous Earth). There is a lot of reading material there (at last count over 20 pages) (!)

4. Re: Glory points and flying. Thank you. [/blockquote]2. I wasn't originally planning on it - I appeal to Cataclysmic Crow, who helped me with the balancing.  Should jatayi have racial HD??

3. That would be excellent!

4. No worries!

My character is officially finished, including the fluff. The only noticeable drawback with him at the moment is that he is carrying a medium load. However what is causing him to go into that category is all packed inside his backpack, and thus can be dropped as a standard action. Plus I plan on using the mount spell quite regularly so it should be largely nullified by that.

My plans for him are to get a couple levels of witch and the rest in gunslinger. Possibly go for Witch 4/Gunslinger 16 or 5/15 depending on what I think is more important.

Finally a question for steerpike. Can I have my weapon gain power as I do? I want it to be my primary weapon from level 4 to wherever we stop. I was thinking I could balance it by just paying for the enhancements as I went. It's just that fluff-wise I want to stick with Meteor for the entire game.

[blockquote=Nomadic]Finally a question for steerpike. Can I have my weapon gain power as I do? I want it to be my primary weapon from level 4 to wherever we stop. I was thinking I could balance it by just paying for the enhancements as I went. It's just that fluff-wise I want to stick with Meteor for the entire game. [/blockquote]This sounds like an excellent idea.  I have two possible ideas on the mechanics and explanation of this:

1) You pay the difference in cost between enhancement bonuses to upgrade Meteor whenever you please, adding on new glyphs to make the weapon more powerful.

2) There is a demon or other spirit bound within Meteor.  As you gain in power and continue to use Meteor - and as the weapon claims more souls - new glyphs begin to appear on the barrel of their own accord.  However, the demon's presence begins to grow stronger; it begins to whisper to you, and implant dark suggestions.  It hungers for more souls.  I would ask you to roleplay this (your choice of how to do this); in addition, you would have to make a kill with Meteor once per week per point of enhancement bonus, or the weapon would attempt to seize control over you (a contested Charisma check, with the enhancement bonus as Meteor's Charisma bonus).

I really like Eereg's background fluff, by the way!

Quote from: LlumLeechkin Warmout, heavy. It doesn't make a ton of sense for a leechkin to ride a horse around (for me anyway), so I was wondering if there was a more flavourfull variant.[/blockquote]Hmm, leechkin come from jungles and swamps - not terrain well suited to riders.  Some possibilities, though:

- Giant spider!  Bred by the lilix as mounts, sometimes sold in the other cities. Treat as a large monstrous spider (in the SRD).

- A dire maggot.  These things are sometimes used to pull carriages, and I had a character ride on in a short story.  Treat as a large monstrous centipede (also in the SRD).

Alright so a Large Monstrous Spider or a Large Monstrous Centipede. My first question is, do they count as quadruped creatures for the purposes of calculating load? (That means x3 strength value). Otherwise we may have some problem, as the Spider has strength 15 and the Dire Maggot has strength 13, wich make loads quite small.

That being said, I'm favoring the Dire Maggot, because while it's weaker in combat it is 1. way cooler and 2. faster, 40ft base speed. While I have the Run feat (So I can run 100 feet as a full-round action unmounted), this would let me keep up or overtake people in an overland chase.

Yep, they both function as quadrupeds load-wise.

Go ahead and beef their Strength up to 16 - makes sense if they were bred to carry you into battle.

Quote from: SteerpikeYep, they both function as quadrupeds load-wise.

Go ahead and beef their Strength up to 16 - makes sense if they were bred to carry you into battle.

Alright, for a 16 strength Dire Maggot it has a carrying capacity of 400lbs x4 x4(28 str carrying capacity, x4 for 38, x4 for 48)  x2 (for Large size) = 12800lbs light load. Seems crazy.

So, would it be possible for me to make a ride-check to make my Dire Maggot burrow into the ground (without me on it) and just kinda chill until I call it again? Maybe something like DC 15? What about a burrowing dismout (where I dismount while it burrows) as DC 25? Something along those lines. Just because Dire Maggots are great burrows. Also, I think they'd nix the Large Monstrous Centipedes climbing skill and ability.

Eh, maggots can climb I think - plus they can scramble up their tunnels more easily that way.

The burrowing thing would take a Handle Animal check of DC 15 (teaching it to perform a trick - specifically to "stay").  A burrowing dismount would be DC 20 after a successful Handle Animal check.

Quote from: Steerpike[blockquote=Nomadic]Finally a question for steerpike. Can I have my weapon gain power as I do? I want it to be my primary weapon from level 4 to wherever we stop. I was thinking I could balance it by just paying for the enhancements as I went. It's just that fluff-wise I want to stick with Meteor for the entire game. [/blockquote]This sounds like an excellent idea.  I have two possible ideas on the mechanics and explanation of this:

1) You pay the difference in cost between enhancement bonuses to upgrade Meteor whenever you please, adding on new glyphs to make the weapon more powerful.

2) There is a demon or other spirit bound within Meteor.  As you gain in power and continue to use Meteor - and as the weapon claims more souls - new glyphs begin to appear on the barrel of their own accord.  However, the demon's presence begins to grow stronger; it begins to whisper to you, and implant dark suggestions.  It hungers for more souls.  I would ask you to roleplay this (your choice of how to do this); in addition, you would have to make a kill with Meteor once per week per point of enhancement bonus, or the weapon would attempt to seize control over you (a contested Charisma check, with the enhancement bonus as Meteor's Charisma bonus).

I really like Eereg's background fluff, by the way!

I like the spirit in the gun idea but the problem is unless I was constantly killing people I'd be constantly losing control. I think I'll just pay the difference in cost. Fluff wise though, as Eareg uses the gun he becomes more and more linked to its eldritch presence and begins unlocking its powers. When he first linked with it he heard strange whispers that he couldn't understand coming from the weapon. As he grows in power the link will become more pronounced and these strange whispers will begin to become intelligible as arcane rituals that upon completion will unlock new powers within it. Crunch-wise the rituals will require materials equivalent in cost to the upgrade given. Perhaps at a certain power level the weapon will awaken as Eareg feeds its strength. Though I would rather not have one actively opposed to him, perhaps one that is greedy and vain, demanding that he get it a pretty cover and polish it and buy it decorations and only the best quality bullets. It would also be amusing if it was jealous and would damage or destroy other guns left near it.

Email should be sent.

Received!  Thank you very much - looks excellent!

On jatayi: The entire point of LA is that you don't get racial hit dice. It's simply a "handicap" you'll have to pay to be able to use some of their stronger abilities. If you really think they are too weak, Steerpike should probably rather come up with some small extra ability (perform bonus?). But then again, they really do have excellent flying.
I'm a bit behind on the fluff compared to the other characters. I'll try to write it today.

On magic items: Keeping in mind that this system is balanced for essentially no magic items, are you sure you have this under control Steerpike? Most everybody seems to have one or more magical items, which is understandable as you said that we could pretty much only get it at character creation. But right now it seems that every person who ends up in the pits has a magical weapon :p
Mastering Iron Heroes has a chapter on magic items. They essentially balance this by each weapon having some arcane flaw. Their examples are Domination (it takes control), Doom (enemies crit you more often), and physical dependency (drains str/con if not used). But you might have better ideas on this.  

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowOn jatayi: The entire point of LA is that you don't get racial hit dice. It's simply a "handicap" you'll have to pay to be able to use some of their stronger abilities. If you really think they are too weak, Steerpike should probably rather come up with some small extra ability (perform bonus?). But then again, they really do have excellent flying.
I'm a bit behind on the fluff compared to the other characters. I'll try to write it today.

On magic items: Keeping in mind that this system is balanced for essentially no magic items, are you sure you have this under control Steerpike? Most everybody seems to have one or more magical items, which is understandable as you said that we could pretty much only get it at character creation. But right now it seems that every person who ends up in the pits has a magical weapon :p
Mastering Iron Heroes has a chapter on magic items. They essentially balance this by each weapon having some arcane flaw. Their examples are Domination (it takes control), Doom (enemies crit you more often), and physical dependency (drains str/con if not used). But you might have better ideas on this.  

I'm fine with taking the dependency flaw for my weapon. Would add extra flavor :)

Looking at the spell lists at the d20 SRD site, I'm wondering if we could make some custom, CE-oriented spells. Especially Necromancy seems rather lackluster at the lower levels, whereas it would seem that in Cadaverous Earth it'd be more ubiquitous. Renaming/reflavouring the existing spells is good but can only go so far. Ensuring game balance could be a problem though.

I think that if you just come up with a balanced spell, Steerpike will accept it. There might be reason to draw some inspiration from the D&D warlock; many of his invocations are darkly themed combinations of common spells that might fit with the esoteric spells of CE.

Here is the background for Mr. Carver. I still lack a proper physical description of him though, but you can probably figure it out from his equipment list. I made a few changes to his character sheet btw.

[ic=The Story of Mr. Carver]
25 years back there was a small family in Hexwarren called Jaggedspine. They were a father and his three sons. The mother had died giving birth to the youngest of them, a son who had been conceived with a man who wasn't the father. The father abhorred him and his brothers blamed him, locking him in a cellar where they fed him once a week . But one day the Jaggedspines were gone; the two brothers and the father lay sprawled on the floor of the house, drenched in their own blood, with their throats slit and a single tooth wrenched from each of their mouths.

At about the same time a young orphan calling himself Carver found his way to the crime-ridden slums of Macellaria, his only possession a small lacquered box. He lived as a beggar and a thug, ensuring his safety by providing certain "services" for the gangs that prowled the streets. His hatred for humanity now fully awakened, he would have killed himself had it not been for Woundtender. Woundtender was an old leechkin, a wandering doctor with a morbid fascination with both his primary means of sustance and anatomy. He took young Carver in as an apprentice, and paid coin and knowledge in return for blood.
When Woundtender died a few years later at the hand of human supremacists from the House of Untainted Flesh, Carver fled the house with his small inheritance and retreated into obscurity.

A few years went by and Carver finally found his redemption with the Graft peddlers. Unmaking his own identity as a man, he became the heavily grafted Mr. Carver, intent on replacing every little bit of flesh that he was born with.
He took to the calling that Woundtender had set him on, but every so often his patients would disappear. Yet no one was the wiser, and Mr. Carvers humanity slowly eroded.      

But he shouldn't have sought revenge. When he killed an Untainted a price was put on his head and he was dragged into the pits. If only they knew his true crimes.
[/ic]

[spoiler=character sheet for comparison]

[ic=Character Sheet]
Mr. Carver
Human (macellarian)
Executioner 4

Abilities
Strength: 13 [+1]
Dexterity: 16 [+3]
Constitution: 16 [+3]
Intelligence: 12 [+1]
Wisdom: 15 [+2]
Charisma: 12 [+1]

Attack (standard): Agony Knife +7 (1d4+1 and penalty/19-20)
Attack (razor fiend):  Agony Knife +5/+5 (1d4 and penalty/19-20)
Options: venom, power attack, sneak attack

HP: 35
Defense: 18 (+4 BDB, +3 dex, +1 chitinous plates)
Armor: 1d3 (studded leather)

Initiative: +3
BAB: +4
BDB: +4

Traits: City rat (bravo), fleshy (chitin plates)
Abilities: Execution pool (2), sneak attack +3d6, executioner's eye, hindering cut, armor-piercing strike  
Skills:

Mastery: Finesse 2, Power 2, Lore 1
Feats: Razor Fiend 1, weapon finesse 1, power attack  1, venom mastery 1
Skill ranks: Perception 7, Stealth 7, Athletics 3, sleight of hand 4, bluff 7, Tumble 7, heal 4, survival 3, knowledge(local: Macellaria) 7
Languages: Shambles, Alleyspeak

Equipment: the Agony Knife (rusty bone-handled Agonizing masterwork dagger covered in sickly glowing purple glyphs; enchanted with pain-enducing hexes), discreet masterwork studded leather outfitted with overt knife scabbards, 12 daggers of various sinister designs, a bowler hat, a dark ancient military coat (haphazardly patched, with three sleeves)  dark glasses, humanskin gloves, small lacquered box containing 4 human teeth, various venom ingredients in a pouch, a purse with 736 obeloi in it.  
Grafts and modifications: a third half-blind eye (green iris) attached by way of a small lump of deformed muscle to the side of his head, black grafted leechkin muscle on his right arm, a dangling ornamentary vestigial arm in his left side, sharpened teeth, acid burns on hands, small squirming subcutaneous plates (chitinious plates)
[/ic]

[/spoiler]

[blockquote=Cataclysmic Crow]On magic items: Keeping in mind that this system is balanced for essentially no magic items, are you sure you have this under control Steerpike? Most everybody seems to have one or more magical items, which is understandable as you said that we could pretty much only get it at character creation. But right now it seems that every person who ends up in the pits has a magical weapon[/blockquote]I'm not obsessed with game balance, but I take your point that there do seem to be a lot of magic items about.  I do picture more magic items in CE than in regular Iron Heroes, though, and none of the items are game-breaking.  In short, I'm, not worried about it - but later items found may have some serious drawbacks.  As Nomadic's rifle, Meteor, advances in power, I may add some minor drawbacks with his permission, though not the kills/week thing necessarily.

Crow-

Okay re the LA= no extra HP.

That being said please compare the HP of my character with any of the others and see how I fear disaster. Any suggestions?

HP=23. (mitigated somewhat by the Diehard feat) (note: CON is 15, which is decent.) (I could switch out Endurance for Toughness, but it seems useful to be able to sleep in Armor given CE's deadliness.) (raising CON by 1 only gets me 3 HP, likewise, and means that my dex defense goes down by 1 or my int by 1 or my cha by 1. Potentially the CHA could go down, but I'd like to avoid that. My best option appears to be to switch out Endurance.)

vs: Ghul Witch 1/Gunfighter 3 HP 37
vs: Executioner 4 HP 35
vs: Human Man-At-Arms 4 HP 48 (Llum's old character)
vs: (Ghul Witch 4) HP 27
vs: Level Four Armiger HP 54
vs: Leechkin Berzerker 4 HP 57

Ghostman - feel free to homebrew any kind of spell you like - just run it past me and I'll decide whether it's balanced compared to other spells of its level.

For cool additional spells that fit CE, I recommend the infamous Book of Vile Darkness and the excellent Libris Mortis.  here are a couple of example spells:

BLADE OF PAIN AND FEAR
Evocation
Level:Witch 2
Components: V, S, DF
Casting Time: 1 standard
action
Range: 0 ft.
Effect: Swordlike column of gnashing teeth
Duration: 1 min./level (D)
Saving Throw: Will partial
Spell Resistance: Yes

A 3-foot-long column of disembodied gnashing teeth springs forth from your hand, screaming and chanting with unholy vigor. You make melee touch attacks with this blade of pain and fear. The blade deals 1d6 points of damage +1 point per two caster levels (maximum +10). Your Strength modifier does not apply to the damage. A creature that you successfully deal damage to must also make a saving throw or become frightened.

NECROTIC CYST
Necromancy
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S, F
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Living creature touched
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Fortitude negates
Spell Resistance: Yes
The subject develops an internal spherical sac that contains fl uid or semisolid necrotic flesh. The internal cyst is noticeable as a slight bulge on the subject's arm, abdomen, or face (wherever you chose to touch the target) or it is buried deeply enough in the flesh of your target that it is not immediately obvious'" the subject may not realize what was implanted within her. From now on, undead foes and necromantic magic are particularly debilitating to the subject'"the cyst enables a sympathetic response between free-roaming external undead and itself. Whenever the victim is subject to a spell or effect from the school of necromancy, she makes saving throws to resist at a '"2 penalty. Whenever the subject is dealt damage by the natural weapon of an undead (claw, bite, or other attack form), she takes an additional 1d6 points
of damage. Victims who possess necrotic cysts may elect to have some well-meaning chirurgeon remove them surgically. The procedure is a bloody, painful process that incapacitates the subject for 1 hour on a successful DC 20 Heal check, and kills the subject with an unsuccessful Heal check. The procedure takes 1 hour, and the chirurgeon can't take 20 on the check.

BONEBLADE
Necromancy
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S, F, Undead
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Touch
Effect: One bone that becomes a
blade
Duration: 10 minutes/level
The caster changes a bone at least 6 inches long into a longsword, short sword, or greatsword (caster's choice). This weapon has a +1 enhancement bonus on attacks and damage for every five caster levels (at least +1, maximum +4). Furthermore, this blade deals an extra +1d8 points of damage to living targets. This spell confers no proficiency with the blade, but the caster doesn't need to be the one wielding the blade for it to be effective.
Focus: A 6-inch-long bone.

Spells such as this will be available for purchase/learning as well!

Quote from: Steerpike[blockquote=Cataclysmic Crow]On magic items: Keeping in mind that this system is balanced for essentially no magic items, are you sure you have this under control Steerpike? Most everybody seems to have one or more magical items, which is understandable as you said that we could pretty much only get it at character creation. But right now it seems that every person who ends up in the pits has a magical weapon[/blockquote]I'm not obsessed with game balance, but I take your point that there do seem to be a lot of magic items about.  I do picture more magic items in CE than in regular Iron Heroes, though, and none of the items are game-breaking.  In short, I'm, not worried about it - but later items found may have some serious drawbacks.  As Nomadic's rifle, Meteor, advances in power, I may add some minor drawbacks with his permission, though not the kills/week thing necessarily.

As I said I wouldn't mind if you made the weapon demand things of me. Made it greedy/vain/jealous. Not working if I didn't buy it new things and polish it up regularly, destroying any other weapons I tried to carry with me, sapping me with nasty penalties if I tried to use other weapons, etc. If it's vain it might demand that I always wear it proudly where others can see it, which could create some amusing instances when I go somewhere that doesn't allow weapons and come back to it pissed off at me because I had to leave it with the doorman.

Quote from: SteerpikeNECROTIC CYST
Necromancy
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S, F
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Living creature touched
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Fortitude negates
Spell Resistance: Yes
The subject develops an internal spherical sac that contains fl uid or semisolid necrotic flesh. The internal cyst is noticeable as a slight bulge on the subject's arm, abdomen, or face (wherever you chose to touch the target) or it is buried deeply enough in the flesh of your target that it is not immediately obvious'" the subject may not realize what was implanted within her. From now on, undead foes and necromantic magic are particularly debilitating to the subject'"the cyst enables a sympathetic response between free-roaming external undead and itself. Whenever the victim is subject to a spell or effect from the school of necromancy, she makes saving throws to resist at a '"2 penalty. Whenever the subject is dealt damage by the natural weapon of an undead (claw, bite, or other attack form), she takes an additional 1d6 points
of damage. Victims who possess necrotic cysts may elect to have some well-meaning chirurgeon remove them surgically. The procedure is a bloody, painful process that incapacitates the subject for 1 hour on a successful DC 20 Heal check, and kills the subject with an unsuccessful Heal check. The procedure takes 1 hour, and the chirurgeon can't take 20 on the check.

  I've had at least two characters die by that spell.

That sounds both hilarious and disturbing, Nomadic - I fully approve.

I really like Carver's background, by the way - the teeth thing is so creepy!  And its nice to have someone with enemies as well as allies, too.

[blockquote=Sarisa]I've had at least two characters die by that spell. [/blockquote]Wow!  It's pretty nasty, especially the high-level spells (Nectrotic Burst, etc) that interact with it.  *Shivers*

Nomadic- I actually think that makes more sense for an intelligent weapon- why would it necessarily care about killing people-- it would be more likely to care about if it's taken well care of, prominent, and loved. Good work!

Okay, looking over the numbers you should be 6 hit points down on average from a witch with the same constitution. One issue might be the hit point boost every class has been given. Bards should probably get 1d4+4 as their hit die. But you'd have to ask Steerpike for that boost. But it does make sense. Then your race would cost you 4 hit points, but in turn you would be able to fly which means that you are only really vulnerable to ranged attacks and hexes. That seems fair to me.
Admittedly, the combination of LA races with low hit point classes seems to be a risky business.

I could take that modification of Bard HP. The rest of your reasoning sounds fair.

What does Steerpike think?

Yes, Bard HP modification makes perfect sense.  In a pinch, you can always fly above foes that can only engage you in melee (of course, if you tried to fly to escape the pits, sharpshooters would likely gun you down).

Incidentally, my quasi-tenuous justification for the spontaneous casting of Bards is that jatayi have such perfect memories (exceeding even those of humans with eidetic memory) that spells are never wiped from their minds as they are from other Witches, so long as they are encoded in song and performance.

EDIT: I have given jatayi a +2 Perform bonus.

Steerpike, I don't know if you have mentioned date/time for the game, but I would like to at least observe. (school,work,summer etc) make it difficult to commit to anything else at the moment.
 
 

Thank you. I'll fix that up.

Also, PDF of the setting (but not the rules) has been sent. (~206 pages). Word document may potentially be sendable but that file is nearly 5 MB.

>>Incidentally, my quasi-tenuous justification for the spontaneous casting of Bards is that jatayi have such perfect memories (exceeding even those of humans with eidetic memory) that spells are never wiped from their minds as they are from other Witches, so long as they are encoded in song and performance.

Makes sense.

Suggested spells:
(EDIT: tweaked for hopefully better balance)

BLOOD BAIT
Necromancy
Level: Witch 1
Components: V, S, F
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Effect: Ray
Duration: 1 round/level
Saving Throw: Special
Spell Resistance: Yes
The caster smears his hand or other appropriate body part in blood, either from a container or by wounding himself, and shapes it into a sanguine ray which shoots forth from the limb. The caster must succeed on a ranged touch attack to strike a target. Any living creature struck by this ray becomes drenched in blood that cannot be washed away. As long as this enchanted bloodstain remains, all haematophagic creatures (such as leechskin or goreflies) within a radius (10 ft. + 1 ft./level) will be attracted to the subject and desire to feed on him over any other prey. Sentient haematophages that succeed at a Will save may choose to resist this compulsion, but non-sentient ones will find the subject irresistible. The bloodstain loses it's bewitched qualities when the spell ends.
Focus: A smearing of blood.


DIABOLIC EYE
Conjuration
Level: Witch 3
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Personal
Target: You
Duration: 10 minutes/level
Saving Throw: Special
Spell Resistance: Yes
You call upon unfathomable entities beyond the fabric of reality, offering to partake in a twisted pact. An extra eye tears open on your forehead or another body part of your choosing, a gaping black orb staring with the hideous nothingness of cosmic void. Nameless horrors peer through this eye into the corporeal world, striking terror in all those souls their gaze falls upon. For the duration of the spell, you possess a Gaze Attack (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/specialAbilities.htm#gazeAttacks). Enemies affected by the gaze must make Will saves each round or become shaken. When the spell ends, the eye closes and withers away, leaving a bleeding wound; you suffer 1d4 points of damage.

[blockquote=Sarisa]Steerpike, I don't know if you have mentioned date/time for the game, but I would like to at least observe. (school,work,summer etc) make it difficult to commit to anything else at the moment.
[/blockquote]We're planning on trying it for 1:30 PM PST, unless I'm getting mixed up.  The roster seems to have filled up with six players rather quickly, but if you'd like to play the occasional NPC you'd be welcome to, and if someone has to drop out there'll be a spot waiting.

Light Dragon - holy crap!  I am greatly flattered, and amazed.  It's a beautiful PDF.  I'm going to host it and link it to the main thread.

The Blood Bait spell is interesting, except for the part where it MCs my character! Still, that's what you get for playing a Leechkin.

Speaking of magic items, I do not thing that my Bloodslake Manacles (Ring-->Bracers of Sustenance) are game breaking. As for some sort of penalty, I'm open to some discussion.

On another note, people are buying magic items because (and I think this is one reason) we can't buy grafts or hex tattoos at first level (unless we can make them) and 3500 is a LOT of cash to spend, so it's got to be spent somewhere.

EDIT: For Leechkin, is there some way to get past the prerequisite of Improved Unarmed Strike for Improved Grapple? It makes literally no sense for a Leechkin to have this feat, mechanically or fluffly.

Oh, the moratorium on grafts/tattoos was because everyone was going to start at 0 obeloi!  Now grafts are totally allowed!!

The Manacles are fine as is - as are all the items.  Nomadic's item is going to get more powerful, so drawbacks will manifest, but the others are OK.

Looking at the spells, the second one seems a tad underpowered.  What if it got changed so that it actively frightened foes rather than having them be shaken?

The first one does seem tricky to balance... I'd be tempted to either change it to 1 round/level or to boost the spell level to 2, but what do others think??

So how would we handle costs of Hexed Tattoos at higher Masteries? (For buying them, not crafting them?)

So Rifles are Large-sized two handed weapons, so a Zerda can't use one correct?

And one more question, you can use Defelct Missle on bullets? Or would that be house-ruled otherwise?

Hmm, hadn't considered the cost of the higher level tattoos... for now, you can just purchase basic ones.

Zerda could use a rifle, but at a -4 penalty (2 size categories) - if I'm reading the rules properly.

I think deflecting bullets would be impossible, so nope on that one.

We're not saying goodbye to Gorethirst, are we??  He's so magnificent!

Quote from: SteerpikeZerda could use a rifle, but at a -4 penalty (2 size categories) - if I'm reading the rules properly.

We're not saying goodbye to Gorethirst, are we??  He's so magnificent![/quote]

No, I just like to know how things work.

You made me realize that as written the Glyph Tattoo Feat was COMPLETELY FREAKIN BROKEN.  I rewrote it with only 2 mastery levels, the "temporary" and "permanent" styles, the permanent costing 500 obeloi per spell level per cast level, rather than 50.

Thank you - now it can't be abused.

Quote from: SteerpikeYou made me realize that as written the Glyph Tattoo Feat was COMPLETELY FREAKIN BROKEN.  I rewrote it with only 2 mastery levels, the "temporary" and "permanent" styles, the permanent costing 500 obeloi per spell level per cast level, rather than 50.

Thank you - now it can't be abused.

So a permanent tattoo Costs 500xspell level x caster level? For crafting purposes do 0-th level spells count as 1st? or are something like 250xcaster level? Also, I'm guessing tattoos are still limited to temporary ones at character creation purchase?

[blockquote=Llum]or are something like 250xcaster level[/blockquote]That one.

If you want to get an advanced tattoo, that's OK now that I've fixed the feat.

I have yet another question. For minimum caster level, does it have to be high enough for a caster of that Level/HD to cast that spell?

Ex: A level 3 spell must have a caster level of 5+?

So you can't get something like a level 5 spell with caster level 1 or something equally silly?

Also, could there be some sort of graft (maybe clockwork or mechanical in nature?) that increases a persons carrying capacity?

Yep, caster level has a minimum, as you described.

I was browsing the internet looking for an Iron Heroes FAQ (I found one btw, answers all kinds of questions) and I learned that there was an Iron Heroes Player's Companion, a book that adds three classes (one caster that uses pact-like magic, two non-casters), new traits and new feats. It's OGL so I was wondering if you would want to include stuff from it in the game or not?

Is it OGL in such a way that we can read it?
And it's kinda surprising that no one before us has posted the OGL elements in Iron Heroes on the internet.

Seeing as some people are making spells and quite a lot of our team is magically inclined, here is the paragraph on hexes from the CE thread:

Quote from: Cadaverous EarthHexes
Hexes are spells that can be invoked through incantation. Hexes can transform the caster or someone else, curse, augment, heal, or harm the witch or another individual, or evoke some effect on the environment. Common battle-hexes include Eldred's Excellent Exsanguination (which boils the target's blood), Catskull's Green Corruption (which manifests a voracious fungus that devours the target from the inside out, then uses them as a grisly, mushroom-covered thrall), and Vorl's Black Dismemberment (which causes loss of limb), Morith's Nine Mortifications (a series of hexes that can numb, paralyze, maim, or cause complete muscle death), and the anonymous Withering Gaze (which hexes the eyes of the witch so that his or her stare has a desiccating effect, turning opponents to dust). Hexes can also be employed in order to graft new limbs or flesh.

's [Adjective] [noun] form, rather than the more generic naming formulas of D&D. Also, their effects are somewhat morbid as everything else.

I don't mind if the names are a little less personal, but I do have a fondness for personal names.

I don't have the player's companion but if it looks CEish then it'd be fine.  The only exception would be magic stuff, which might not gel very well with the preexisting magic system.

And yeah, I scoured the web, went through Iron Heroes fan sites, even found some wikis for other systems... unless I missed one somewhere, the files I posted are the closest anyone's got to putting Iron Heroes OGL online.

EDIT: Speaking of which, I should get the combat stuff up soon.

I also did a thorough search for it and found nothing.
and sorry, wasn't because I tried to enforce how people should make the spells, I just liked the ones in that paragraph ^^

Heh thank you.

To all my friendly neighborhood witches, here are some spell ideas:

Tormhage's Deadly Obfuscation - Augments skin growth, causing the victim's own body to seal all orifices shut.

Moldev's Earthern Sentence - A fissure opens and claws of rock and earth drag the target down into the hole before it closes again

Solden's Devious Expulsion - A pulsing ball of energy rapidly attracts anything made of metal in the vicinity and when the witch releases the energy the metal is violently expelled

Korrodar's Stygian Metamorphosis - The person turns into a hulking brute. combined enlarge person/rage.

Solden's Tempting End - If used on persons of opposite sex, they are pulled towards each other by magical force for a certain duration. If contact is made between the two, they will slowly fuse together.

Egven's Sad Collapse - Each limb of the target bends at impossible angles as the body is slowly forced into a ball-like posture at which point the flesh is fused together, rendering the creature helpless.

Kesellar's Flensing Wind - This wind flies from the witch's outstretched hands and slowly tears off the skin of anyone caught  

Quote from: SteerpikeLooking at the spells, the second one seems a tad underpowered.  What if it got changed so that it actively frightened foes rather than having them be shaken?

I think that might make it too powerful for a 3rd level spell, especially compared to Fear (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/fear.htm), which is 4th level. Maybe increasing the duration would be a better way of balancing?

Quote from: SteerpikeThe first one does seem tricky to balance... I'd be tempted to either change it to 1 round/level or to boost the spell level to 2, but what do others think??

Could also limit the compelling effect to within a radius, perhaps dependent on level.

Those sorts of changes sound good to me... good call on Fear.

One question I was pondering: do some of you want homes in Macellaria itself?  Rent would be anywhere from 5-20 obeloi a month, depending on the quality and location of the housing; of course there's always squatting - there are lots of abandoned buildings, and very poor individuals often have nooks or niches in the catacombs.  The big residential districts are Pulsetown, Wormhive, and Resurrection Row, though Witches might have apartments above or below workshops in Hexwarren, likewise for merchants in the Bazaars.

While on the subject of spells, what level do you think an "Incorporeal Jaunt" style spell would be?  That is, a spell that makes you temporarily Incorporeal (NOT Ethereal) (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/typessubtypes.htmhyperlinkurl) for a few rounds, similar to Ethereal Jaunt (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/etherealJaunt.htm) but with Incorporeality?

I'm wondering because I'd written that members of the relatively elitist Robber Guild, the Crimson Shadows, all have a tattoo that allows them to do something like this every now and again (basically, a permanent 1/day Glyph Tattoo of this hypothetical spell), and I wanted to know how much it would cost - ideally I'd like to keep the cost as low as possible, even if the guild is difficult to get into.

[blockquote=Llum]Hmmm, makes the Deflect Missle feat a lot less good, since I'm guessing firearms are fairly common in CE.[/blockquote]Eh, they'll be quasi-common.  If you're a two-bit thug, are you really going to burn a Feat (i.e. training time and effort) and the hundreds of obeloi needed on some crappy one-shot pistol that takes a long time to reload and whose ammunition is costly, or are you going to grab a shortbow or a sling, or just stick with a trusty blade?

Quote from: SteerpikeThose sorts of changes sound good to me... good call on Fear.

One question I was pondering: do some of you want homes in Macellaria itself?  Rent would be anywhere from 5-20 obeloi a month, depending on the quality and location of the housing; of course there's always squatting - there are lots of abandoned buildings, and very poor individuals often have nooks or niches in the catacombs.  The big residential districts are Pulsetown, Wormhive, and Resurrection Row, though Witches might have apartments above or below workshops in Hexwarren, likewise for merchants in the Bazaars.

I was actually thinking, due to Eareg's profession of choice and his preference to stay out of city politics that he had renovated a small cave outside the city. Hidden the entrance with bushes, given it a solid locking door, bought a few comforts of home that he quietly snuck out there (chairs, small table, sleeping cot, lamps, a little cooking stove perhaps). I'd be willing to pay the cost to represent the money spent on renovation (it would be nothing grand so I don't expect it would be more than a hundred or so obeloi. The key point being that he has been very careful not to let anyone know where he lives, instead letting people believe that he spends all his time out on the wastes themselves.

Quote from: SteerpikeWhile on the subject of spells, what level do you think an "Incorporeal Jaunt" style spell would be?  That is, a spell that makes you temporarily Incorporeal (NOT Ethereal) (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/typessubtypes.htmhyperlinkurl) for a few rounds, similar to Ethereal Jaunt (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/spells/etherealJaunt.htm) but with Incorporeality?

I'm wondering because I'd written that members of the relatively elitist Robber Guild, the Crimson Shadows, all have a tattoo that allows them to do something like this every now and again (basically, a permanent 1/day Glyph Tattoo of this hypothetical spell), and I wanted to know how much it would cost - ideally I'd like to keep the cost as low as possible, even if the guild is difficult to get into.

Would be cool, does that mean I'd need to replace one of my tattoos with this one?

Quote from: Steerpike[blockquote=Llum]Hmmm, makes the Deflect Missle feat a lot less good, since I'm guessing firearms are fairly common in CE.[/blockquote]Eh, they'll be quasi-common.  If you're a two-bit thug, are you really going to burn a Feat (i.e. training time and effort) and the hundreds of obeloi needed on some crappy one-shot pistol that takes a long time to reload and whose ammunition is costly, or are you going to grab a shortbow or a sling, or just stick with a trusty blade?

You might, a one-shot pistol has a profound psychological effect on anyone who has heard of the kind of wounds they can cause. Guns are common enough in CE that most people probably have. A two-bit criminal could make alot of gold holding people up and never having to fire a shot. The downside I think that would push more criminals to other weapons is that...

A) A gun requires alot more maintenance then a sword, something difficult to give it in the dingy slums of a city.
B) A gun is loud. If they ever have to fire it they will attract the attention of everyone within many blocks of them.

So a thug or a highwayman probably would get a gun. But a pickpocket, burgler, assassin, or most other criminals would go for a bow or sword.

Good point.  Deflect Missiles would still be very useful against people like savage tribesman, who would stick solely to bows and the like.

A cave sounds fine, Nomadic.  How about 75 obeloi for a fully furnished little cave not far from the Butcher's Gate (the Slaughter-lands gate)?  Or would you prefer one of the other gates?

[blockquote=Nomadic]Would be cool, does that mean I'd need to replace one of my tattoos with this one[/blockquote] If you were an official member of the gang (which I think your background suggested you were), you would have the tattoo - this might be a tad expensive, since it'd be a permanent one of a mid level spell, though you might get a "guild discount" on it.

The alternative is a little gory, but also a possibility if you'd rather not swap out your tattoos or pay for the Crimson Shadows one: the militia who brought you in may have actually cut the tattoo from your flesh in order to prevent you from slipping away during the coming fight in the pits.  You can always go back and get tattooed again later, though the Guild may ask you for a favor in return for having to give you another tattoo.

Quote from: SPOne question I was pondering: do some of you want homes in Macellaria itself? Rent would be anywhere from 5-20 obeloi a month, depending on the quality and location of the housing; of course there's always squatting - there are lots of abandoned buildings, and very poor individuals often have nooks or niches in the catacombs. The big residential districts are Pulsetown, Wormhive, and Resurrection Row, though Witches might have apartments above or below workshops in Hexwarren, likewise for merchants in the Bazaars.

Likely roosting in different places from time to time. I figure that Wispy was arrested fairly shortly after arriving in town, and seeing how Wispy is basically broke, I don't think he'd be able to afford anywhere nice to live, nor do I really think he'd be too inclined to live in enclosed quarters-- he always needs to be ready to run and to have an escape plan.

Quote from: SteerpikeGood point.  Deflect Missiles would still be very useful against people like savage tribesman, who would stick solely to bows and the like.

A cave sounds fine, Nomadic.  How about 75 obeloi for a fully furnished little cave not far from the Butcher's Gate (the Slaughter-lands gate)?  Or would you prefer one of the other gates?

[blockquote=Nomadic]Would be cool, does that mean I'd need to replace one of my tattoos with this one[/blockquote] If you were an official member of the gang (which I think your background suggested you were), you would have the tattoo - this might be a tad expensive, since it'd be a permanent one of a mid level spell, though you might get a "guild discount" on it.

The alternative is a little gory, but also a possibility if you'd rather not swap out your tattoos or pay for the Crimson Shadows one: the militia who brought you in may have actually cut the tattoo from your flesh in order to prevent you from slipping away during the coming fight in the pits.  You can always go back and get tattooed again later, though the Guild may ask you for a favor in return for having to give you another tattoo.

The Butcher's Gate sounds just fine. As for the tattoo that's a little tricky. It's going to be far too expensive for me to afford. At 500 * caster level * spell level / 2 if the spell is even just a 4th level spell that's 7000 Obeloi. I'd have to be a noble and have to use almost all my money up on it to afford it. Even with a guild discount I doubt I could unless the discount was like 96% off. I suppose I'll have it cut from his skin which means I have to remove one of my tattoos as it would have been taking up a slot. We'll say he had it on his left arm.

I'll give you your hideout for free in exchange.  Deal?

Quote from: SteerpikeI'll give you your hideout for free in exchange.  Deal?

Nah the cost of the tattoo I removed was only 25 Obeloi (level 1). If you want to compensate me then just take that off the cost of the hideout and we'll call it even (though I don't care... it's really not that much, I'll just re-tattoo it afterwards).

I did however realize something. You can graft your own tattoos and they are assumed to fill up most if not all of the surface area slot allotted to them (so an entire tattooed arm from shoulder to fingertip would be one glyph). Now my question is, how the hell would I tattoo my own back? I can't see it and I can barely reach it (I can probably only reach it at all because I'm very dexterous/agile).

[blockquote=Nomadic]I did however realize something. You can graft your own tattoos and they are assumed to fill up most if not all of the surface area slot allotted to them (so an entire tattooed arm from shoulder to fingertip would be one glyph). Now my question is, how the hell would I tattoo my own back? I can't see it and I can barely reach it (I can probably only reach it at all because I'm very dexterous/agile). [/blockquote]Perhaps your familiar helps you (bizarre image)?!?  Long arms and a mirror?  More seriously, I'd just assume that you'd need an assistant to help create those tattoos, but you'd provide the numina, the glyph itself, etc.  They'd just be a pair of hands.

Here are some new spells, either scratch-made, cobbled together out of other spells, or filched from other sources...

MORITH'S FIRST MORTIFACTION(Necromancy)
Level: Witch 1
 Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Living creature
Duration: 1 min./level
Saving Throw: Fortitude negates
Spell Resistance: Yes

The target is numbed to sensation.  They must make a Fortitude save or drop anything they are carrying and take a penalty to Dexterity equal to 1d6+1 per two caster levels (maximum 1d6+5). The subject's Dexterity score cannot drop below 1.  The subject's flesh becomes slightly grey and chalky where they were touched.

MORITH'S SECOND MORTIFACTION(Necromancy)
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Living creature
Duration: 1d10+2 rounds
Saving Throw: Fortitude partial
Spell Resistance: Yes

The target is enfeebled and stricken with agonizing pain.  They must make a Fortitude save or take a -4 penalty on attack rolls, skill checks, and ability checks for the spell's duration.  Even if they save they take 1d8 damage +1 per caster level.  They subject's flesh becomes red and raw where they were touched, inflamed as if infected.

MORITH'S THIRD MORTIFACTION(Necromancy)
Level: Witch 3
 Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Living creature
Duration: 1d10+2 rounds
Saving Throw: Fortitude partial
Spell Resistance: Yes

The target is stricken with a ghastly paralysis similar to rigor mortis for the spell's duration unless they make a Fortitude save.  They also take 2d8 damage +1 per caster level, even if they save.  The subject's entire body takes on a corpse-like appearance while paralyzed, with pallid, puffy flesh and a whiff of the grave.

MORITH'S FOURTH MORTIFACTION(Necromancy)
Level: Witch 4
 Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Touch
Target: Living creature
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Fortitude partial
Spell Resistance: Yes

The target's vitality and essence are sapped, dealing 1d4 temporary ability damage to their physical ability scores (Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution) unless they make a successful Fortitude save.  They also take 3d8 damage +1 per caster level, even if they save.  Where the subject was touched their flesh becomes putrid, as if decomposing, and the victim's entire body becomes pallid and corpse-like in appearance

WITHER LIMB
Necromancy
Level: Witch 4
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Target: Limbs of one humanoid
Duration: Permanent
Saving Throw: Fortitude negates
Spell Resistance: Yes

The caster chooses to wither either the arms or the legs of a humanoid. Withered legs force a subject to fall prone while at the same time reducing the subject's land speed to 5 feet. Withered arms make it impossible for the subject to use objects or cast spells with somatic components. A withered limb can be restored by a successful dispel magic cast by a spellcaster of a level higher than the level of the wither limb caster.

CIRCLE OF NAUSEA
Evocation
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S, F
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Personal
Area: An emanation extending in a 20-ft.-radius around a 2-ft.-radius circle on the ground with the caster in the center
Duration: 1 minute/level
Saving Throw: Fortitude negates
Spell Resistance: Yes

Eldritch energy bursts in all directions from the spell's origin, filling the area with pain. Everyone in the spell's area must succeed at a Fortitude saving throw or take a '"2 penalty on all attack rolls, saving throws, and skill checks. Those who succeed at the saving throw must make a new saving throw each round if they remain in the area. The pain lasts as long as the spell does. The caster stands in the circle, which must be prepared ahead of time by inscribing a circle on the ground and putting a stone on the circle at each of the four cardinal directions. Creating this circle takes 1 hour, but once created it may be reused any number of times. If anyone attempts to cross the circle during the spell's duration, she must succeed at a Fortitude saving throw or be nauseated until the spell ends, unable to take actions other than a single move or move-equivalent action. Nauseated characters cannot cross the circle. If someone breaches the circle without becoming nauseated, the spell ends.

BLOOD WIND
Evocation
Level: Witch 1
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Close (25 ft+5ft./level)
Target: A single creature with Intelligence 4 or higher
Duration: 1 round
Saving Throw: Will negates
Spell Resistance: Yes (harmless)

After you complete the spell, the subject's limbs ripple with power and grow slightly in length.  The subject can take a full attack action to use all of its natural weapons and unarmed strikes as if they were thrown weapons with a 20-foot range increment.  The subject gestures as if making a melee attack, but the result of the attack affects a target within range.  This spell does not actually grant reach, and so does not help provide a flanking bonus or allow the subject to make attacks of opportunity at any range greater than normal.  The subject uses its normal melee attack bonuses and deals damage normally if it hits, though the target of the attacks can benefit from cover or concealment.

That's it, I'm switching out one of my level 1's for Blood Wind. That thing fits Eareg's style so well. Can I cast it on myself and then fire off an attack? Oh also, what day are we starting?

I have determined my internet-free vacationing periods: 25th of june to 4th of july and 13th of july to 20th of july. And I probably need a few of the days before the 25th of june to study for my exam. Beyond this, I should be able to schedule around things and participate.

Since the spell duration is only one round, I'll allow you to cast it on yourself and attack.

Originally it was going to be the 13th, but if that doesn't work for Crow perhaps we should make it a bit sooner.  How about the 5fth of July?  We can also try for the 12th of July as well, one week later.  How would those work for people (still at 1:30 PST)??

I could even imagine starting as early as June 29th or 30th (how would those work for people?).  I have plenty of notes and ideas for the big plot, which will be 100% optional in the way that something like the Elder Scrolls series has an optional main quest.  The rest will attempt as best as it can the "world in motion" sandbox effect Vreeg advocates (NOT plotless by any means, but emphasizing choice and a living world).

I've updated my earlier suggested spells (http://www.thecbg.org/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?80551.60#post_80683). And here's a new one for review:

THE BLADE HUNGERS
Conjuration
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S, F
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Touch
Target: One slashing or piercing melee weapon
Duration: 1d4 rounds + 1 round/level
Saving Throw: Special (see description)
Spell Resistance: Yes

You summon a minor, bloodthirsty spirit and temporarily imprison it within a weapon. Empowered by this bound spectre, the item becomes a monstrous tool of violence, consumed with unwholesome desire to rend and kill. The weapon gains a +1 enhancement bonus. Every successful hit that deals damage to an organic creature (living or grave-spawn) forces the target of the attack to make a Fort save vs the spell's DC or suffer 1 point of Constitution damage as the bound spirit feeds on it's flesh.

Additionally, a weapon so haunted has something of a mind of it's own, and may be capable of influencing the mind of it's weilder. Sheathing or dropping the weapon requires a successful Will save vs the Spell's DC. If the weilder has failed to attack anyone with the possessed weapon by the time the spell ends, the furious spirit within will attemt to dominate him; he must make a Will save or succumb to bloodlust, making a free attack against any currently threatened creature or himself.

This spell can be cast on intelligent weapons or weapons that are already possessed, but in such cases the targeted item may negate the spell by a Will save. Failing this, it's own personality is suppressed for the duration of the spell. Should a weapon be broken (eg. sundered, disintegrated...) while possessed by a spirit bound by this spell, the being in question will be freed. There is a 25% chance that a freed spectre manifests in corporeal form, 25% chance that it remains insubstantial but attempts to possess any nearby character, and 50% chance that it disappears to whence it came from. The challenge rating and abilities of the creature are up to the GM, but should be comparable to beings that can be summoned by 2nd-level spells.

Focus: A slashing or piercing melee weapon.

PERFECT spell - looks pretty balanced to me.  How are the above timeslots for you, Ghostman?

EDIT: Rebalanced versions of the spells look excellent.  Both totally capture the bizarre, horrific atmosphere I'm aiming for.  Very minor fix, but should "quenched" be "drenched" in the Blood Bait spell?

Quote from: SteerpikeSince the spell duration is only one round, I'll allow you to cast it on yourself and attack.

Originally it was going to be the 13th, but if that doesn't work for Crow perhaps we should make it a bit sooner.  How about the 5fth of July?  We can also try for the 12th of July as well, one week later.  How would those work for people (still at 1:30 PST)??

I could even imagine starting as early as June 29th or 30th (how would those work for people?).  I have plenty of notes and ideas for the big plot, which will be 100% optional in the way that something like the Elder Scrolls series has an optional main quest.  The rest will attempt as best as it can the "world in motion" sandbox effect Vreeg advocates (NOT plotless by any means, but emphasizing choice and a living world).

I would prefer the 29th (the earlier the better) but be ok with any of the other ones.

I'm fine with any date, I'm done shift work this week so no problems.

However the 29th is a tuesday and the 30th is a wednesday. What day of the week are we aiming for regularly?

On a side note,

We'll still aim for tuesdays regularly, unless there are any objections.

On a side note, how deadly do you think this game will be? As far as I know, regular D&D is fairly safe for the PCs as long as they don't do anything incredibly stupid.

Or is it going to be a more GS kinda dangerous, where if you're unlucky you can meet a swift death. As well as if you do some stupid things.

I don't think it'll be ridiculously dangerous.  You might be more likely to catch a disease, get transformed in some horrific way, cursed, possessed, mutilated, or otherwise maimed than in a regular D&D session, but Iron Heroes characters are built to be pretty resilient.

EDIT: There won't be as much in the way as resurrection as in D&D.  Certainly you can't just stroll down to your local temple and have your party raised for a few hundred gp.

Any of those days should be fine with me.

On the subject of deadliness and combat more generally, here are the new combat rules in Iron Heroes Combat (I'll add these to the first thread, as well:

There are basically three main changes:

1) Reserve Points, which help you heal after a fight is over,

2) Challenges, which allow you to take a penalty in combat to gain a benefit, and

3) Stunts, which are basically involve using skill checks to create a certain effect in combat.

RESERVE POINTS
Reserve points represent your resiliency, toughness, and willpower. Since hit point damage has no effect on characters until they reach 0, most effects that damage you cause no more than superficial bleeding, minor scrapes, and bruises. While these injuries can prove life threatening if you sustain many of them in a short period, you can rally your strength quickly if you have time to rest. Reserve points represent your capacity to recharge your energy and shrug off the effects of minor injuries. You have reserve points equal to your maximum hit points. Whenever you engage in nonstrenuous activity, you may choose to convert 1 reserve point to heal 1 hit point per minute. Remember that whenever you receive healing, you heal an amount of nonlethal damage equal to the hit point damage at the same time. During these minutes, you catch your breath, the pain from a twisted ankle fades, or a cut stops bleeding and slowly starts to heal. You do not gain reserve-point healing while engaged in combat or undertaking other strenuous actions such as climbing a wall or running a long distance. If you have suffered nonlethal damage, you may use 1 reserve point to heal 4 points of nonlethal damage. When you choose this option, you do not heal 1 hit point with that reserve point, only nonlethal damage. A successful Heal skill check to treat wounds as described in Chapter Four restores a number of reserve points to your pool equal to the healer's number of ranks in Heal. After a successful Heal check to offer long-term care, you recover reserve points at twice the normal rate.

REPLENISHING RESERVE POINTS
Any healing you receive above and beyond your maximum hit points replenishes your reserve point pool. You also regain reserve points via rest and relaxation. If you rest eight hours straight during a day, you regain reserve points equal to your Constitution score + your level. If you spend a full day doing nothing but resting, you regain reserve points equal to double your Constitution score + your level. You do not regain reserve points if your hit points are at or below 0.

CONSTITUTION CHANGES
If your Constitution score goes up or down, your reserve points go up or down just like your hit points. If your reserve points drop below 0, you suffer no additional effects or damage. You simply do not have any reserve points to spend on healing yourself.

RESERVE POINTS IN THE GAME
Reserve points make it possible for characters to soak up a fair amount of damage in combat without worrying about healing. Reserve points work too slowly to provide relief during a battle, making a character's maximum hit points as important as ever. However, once a fight ends, injured characters can quickly restore themselves to maximum hit points. And even with this healing, a series of tough encounters can prove deadly. As a character's reserve points drop to 0, he loses the ability to boost his hit points between fights. Players must pay careful attention to their reserve pools to avoid spending their strength before an important battle. More importantly, reserve points have little effect on the lethality of a given encounter. They work too slowly to provide any relief during a battle. Instead, they make it possible to run three or four deadly fights in the course of a day without the action grinding to a halt as the PCs seek out healing. Reserve points don't make the current fight any less lethal. Instead, they create a cushion that causes the current battle to have less of an impact on the party's chances in the next fight.

WHO HAS RESERVE POINTS?
Only characters and creatures with levels in the Iron Heroes core classes gain access to a reserve pool, unless otherwise noted in a monster or NPC class' description. The NPC classes'"warrior, adept, commoner, and others'"do not gain access to reserve points, and neither do most monsters that lack class levels. Unless a creature's description specifically lists a reserve point total, it does not have one.

COMBAT CHALLENGES
A skilled weapon master slashes at a gray ogre's eyes, drawing
blood that temporarily blinds it. If the master's aim were the
slightest bit off, his attack might have missed. An armiger shrugs
off his opponent's blows, allowing his armor to absorb the hits
as he prepares to deliver the killing strike. In these situations, a
warrior accepts a level of risk in return for a potential reward.
Combat challenges work a lot like the skill challenges presented
in Chapter Four. In return for a penalty to your attack
or defense, you gain a bonus to your actions or inflict a
penalty on your foe. Normally, this penalty is '"2 to either
your attacks or defense, but in some cases it is steeper. In
return for this penalty, your attack gains an additional effect,
such as a bonus to damage. A defensive challenge might give
you the option to move faster or provide a bonus to a skill
check. Attack challenges increase the risk that your strike
may miss. Defensive challenges lower your defense, making
you more vulnerable to your foe's attacks.

ACCEPTING A CHALLENGE
You can take on one attack challenge and one defensive challenge
per round. You must state that you wish to accept an
attack challenge at the beginning of your turn, before you take
either your move or standard action. You could not move,
draw an attack of opportunity, and decide to accept a defensive
challenge before striking. Even if you do not gain any of
the benefits of the challenges, you still suffer the penalties.
These penalties last until the start of your next action, though
all of your attacks gain their benefits. An attack challenge's
penalties and benefits apply to any attacks of opportunity you
make, in addition to your normal attacks. Note, however, that
many of these effects cause named penalties. Be sure that
their effects stack depending on their type. (For more on
stacking effects, see the sidebar on page 179.)
Defensive challenges work a little differently than attack
challenges. To gain a defensive challenge's benefits, you first
must expose yourself to the risk associated with it. You can
use a defensive challenge only if at least one opponent
threatens you. You gain its benefits only to melee attacks.
When making a reckless strike, you allow an opponent to
take an easy shot at you. In return, you throw your full
weight behind a strike and batter aside his defenses.
If you want to use a defensive challenge, you must declare
your intention during your action. You then suffer the
appropriate penalty to your defense until your next action.
On that action, you gain the challenge's benefits. This stricture
ensures that a character suffers exposure to the challenge's
drawbacks. From a realism standpoint, it makes sense
that you would have to drop you guard before gaining the
benefits offered by a defensive challenge.
Each challenge provides a different benefit. The minimum
drawback you can suffer is a '"2 penalty to defense or
attacks, though some grant you greater benefits in return
for a stiffer penalty.

ATTACK CHALLENGES
Attack challenges break down into three categories based on
the penalty they levy. Lesser attack challenges cause a '"2 attack
penalty, moderate ones inflict a '"4 penalty, and major ones
carry a '"6 modifier. Each category presents successively
greater benefits, as befits the penalties they cause. Unless
otherwise noted, an attack must hit and inflict damage (in
other words, your damage beats the target's damage reduction)
in order to grant you the challenge's benefit.
You only gain an attack challenge's benefits if you make an
attack during your action. If you do not attack, you gain neither
the benefits nor the drawbacks levied by the challenge.
Following are examples of attack challenges you can accept.

LESSER ATTACK CHALLENGES ('"2)

Bonus Damage: You make a wild swing at your opponent,
one that compensates for its inaccuracy with raw power. You
gain a +1 bonus to melee damage.

Fight Defensively: You keep back from your opponent,
making tentative strikes as you focus on defense. You gain
a +1 active bonus to defense.

Hamper Movement: You tangle your opponent's legs,
slash at his thighs, or otherwise make it tough for him to
move. He suffers a '"1 square injury penalty to movement
for 1 round.

MODERATE ATTACK CHALLENGES ('"4)
Force Movement: You drive your foe back with a mighty
blow, forcing him to cede ground in the face of your advance.
Your target must move one square to allow you to move into
at least one square that he occupied. Your opponent chooses
where he wants to move. If all the available spaces present
any sort of physical or environmental threat, such as a fire or
a pit, he does not have to move. You can force an opponent
to move only once per round, and you do not gain this benefit
on attacks that are not made as part of your standard or
full-round action. For example, you do not gain this benefit
on attacks of opportunity.

Improved Bonus Damage: As described above for the
bonus damage lesser attack challenge, except you gain a
+3 bonus to damage.

Improved Fight Defensively: You make only a few careful
swipes at your foe, preferring instead to concentrate on parrying.
You gain a +2 active bonus to defense.

Wild Flurry: You gain an additional, highly inaccurate
attack. You strike one extra time without the benefits of your
base attack bonus and Strength or Dexterity bonus to attacks
and damage. Your other bonuses apply as normal, as does
the challenge penalty. You may use this option as part of a
standard or full-round action.

MAJOR ATTACK CHALLENGES ('"6)

Improved Force Movement: As described for the force
movement moderate attack challenge above, except you
choose where your opponent moves. If you attempt to force
him into a square that would inflict damage to him, such as a
burning fire or a pit, your target may attempt a Reflex save
(DC 10 + half your base attack bonus) to cancel the movement.
In the event of a successful saving throw, your target
does not move and you cannot move him. Additional attacks
against him lose the benefits of this challenge until your
next action.

Improved Wild Flurry: As above for wild flurry, except you
gain the benefit of your Strength or Dexterity bonus to your
attack and damage, if applicable.

Superior Bonus Damage: As the bonus damage lesser
attack challenge, except you gain a +6 bonus to damage.

DEFENSE CHALLENGES
Defense challenges, like attack challenges, break down into
three categories based on the penalty they levy. Lesser defense
challenges cause a '"2 defense penalty, moderate ones inflict a '"4
penalty, and major ones carry a '"6 modifier. Each category presents
successively greater benefits, as befits the penalties they
cause. Remember, you only gain the benefits of a defensive
challenge after you have accepted its penalties for 1 round.

LESSER DEFENSE CHALLENGES ('"2)

Defensive Roll: You roll with each hit you suffer, making
yourself easier to strike but harder to injure. You gain a +1
bonus on all damage reduction checks for armor. This option
works best against highly skilled opponents who have an
excellent chance to hit you.

Reckless Strike: You drop your guard to focus solely on
hitting and injuring your opponent. You gain either a +2
bonus to damage or a +1 bonus to attacks for 1 round after
accepting this challenge.

Steely Focus: You set aside the chaos and din around you
to focus on an action. You gain a +2 bonus to a single skill
or ability check of your choice as you lower your defenses to
complete the task before you. You must complete this check
on your next action after taking on this challenge.

MODERATE DEFENSE CHALLENGES ('"4)

Heedless Strike: You pay little mind to your defenses as
you leap forward to attack. You gain either a +4 bonus to
damage or a +2 bonus to attacks for 1 round after accepting
this challenge.

Hustle: You press ahead, reducing your defenses in favor
of covering ground. You gain a +1 square (5-foot) bonus
to speed. This bonus applies to your base walking speed.
Determine other movement modes, such as climbing, based
on your improved speed.

Improved Defensive Roll: As for the defensive roll lesser
defense challenge, except you gain a +2 bonus to damage
reduction checks.

Improved Steely Focus: As for the steely focus lesser
defense challenge, except you gain a +4 bonus to your skill
or ability check.

Lashing Strike: You gain the ability to make an additional
attack of opportunity on the round after you accept this challenge.
This extra attack works just like any other attack of
opportunity'"you gain no special ability to make multiple
attacks of opportunity against a single target, for instance.

MAJOR DEFENSE CHALLENGES ('"6)

Focused Determination: You reduce your defenses to buy
yourself time for a skill or ability check. After you suffer this
challenge's defense penalty for 1 round, you may attempt a
skill or ability check without provoking attacks of opportunity.

Improved Hustle: As for the hustle moderate defense challenge,
except you gain a +2 square (10-foot) bonus to speed.

Suicidal Strike: Your opponent's blows slam into you with
vicious accuracy, but you shrug them off in your relentless
drive to conquer your foe. You gain either a +6 bonus to
damage or a +3 bonus to attacks for 1 round after accepting
this challenge.

Superior Defensive Roll: As for the defensive roll lesser
defense challenge, except you gain a +3 bonus to damage
reduction checks.

STUNTS
A stunt is an action in combat that falls outside the normal
bounds of the rules. Iron Heroes defines a wide variety of different
combat actions you can take. The stunts cover everything
else. These rules are a tool to help you come up with
imaginative, clever, and exciting actions in combat. If you
can imagine it, the stunt rules allow you to attempt it. You
might throw a fistful of sand in an opponent's face to blind
him, run along the narrow top of a wall to maneuver around
a foe, or crack open a keg of beer to send a stream of liquid
into an opponent's face. Stunts reward you for coming up
with interesting and visually engaging actions in combat.

STUNT MECHANICS
The mechanics behind a stunt are relatively simple. When
you attempt a stunt, first you pick out the effect you want to
create. The following sections list several different possible
results for a stunt, broken down into three categories: offensive
stunts, defensive stunts, and maneuver stunts.
Next you describe the stunt. How do you attempt it? Do
you use the terrain and combat situation to your advantage?
What do you expect to happen if the stunt succeeds? Think
of the game as if it were a movie, and describe the scene as
you put the stunt into action. As part of this step, you must
choose the mechanical effect you want to gain from the
stunt. For example, the inflict penalty offensive stunt allows
you to force an opponent to take a penalty to his defense or
attacks. When you attempt the stunt, you announce the
total penalty you wish to inflict. A small penalty calls for a
much lower Difficulty Class than a higher one. In the case of
an opposed check, seeking more powerful effects forces you
to accept a penalty to your check.
The DM then picks one or more skills for you to use for
the stunt. You make this 'stunt check' against a Difficulty
Class chosen by the DM or one determined by the effect you
are seeking. Some stunts allow one of your opponents, such
as the target of an offensive stunt, to make a skill, ability, or
base attack check to foil your stunt. If the stunt check succeeds,
you gain its benefits or your foe suffers its effects.

STUNTS AND ACTIONS
Listed next to the name of each stunt is the action required
to complete it. Most stunts require a standard action to complete,
but a few qualify as attack actions. The attack action
stunts require either a standard attack or a full attack action.

STUNTS AND SKILLS
The DM chooses the skill you must use to complete a stunt
and the skill your target uses to oppose your efforts, if applicable.
He can also decide to replace a skill check with a base
attack/defense check or an ability check. Each of the stunt
types includes a short list of skills that are a good match for
its effects. While the DM can choose any skill he wants, he
should pick one that makes logical sense based on your
description of the stunt. Remember, though, that the DM
has final say on how a stunt works.
When you announce a stunt, you can choose to cancel it
and use a different action if you do not agree with the skill the
DM decides to use. Never argue with the DM on this point.
Wait until the game session is done if you have any concerns.
For DMs, remember that the players trust you to make fair,
impartial decisions. Don't pick skills simply to penalize the
players or make stunts more difficult than normal. By the
same token, be consistent when the NPCs attempt stunts. If
you consistently force the PCs to make illogical skill checks
to defend against stunts, particularly if you choose skills that
they have few ranks in, the players will quickly become frustrated
with your game.
To see some stunts in action, turn to the Example of Play
on page 210.
The new options provided by challenges and stunts may seem a little
confusing at first. In some ways, they grant you the same basic effects
but deliver them via different methods. However, the various methods
they use are an important part of how they work.

Challenges are designed to give you more options when attacking.
They allow you to take a penalty to an attack or defense in return for
a temporary bonus. They all focus on attacks and are the easier of
the two systems to use. Think of them as pseudo-feats that any character
can use. They give you benefits similar to Power Attack and
Combat Expertise, but they are less efficient. The key to remember
with a challenge is that it is a simple variation on an attack or
defense.

A stunt is a more elaborate type of action. It can take almost any
form and allows you to create a free-form method of achieving a
variety of different ends. While challenges focus only on attacks,
your attack bonus, and your defense, stunts allow you to use your
skills to gain an advantage in a fight. While challenges are focused,
defined, and limited to modifying your attack or defense, a stunt can
achieve a much wider spread of effects. Think of the stunt rules as a
flexible package of benefits that you can use to create an effect. You
then wrap that effect around a description of the stunt that produces
it. You can also do the opposite'"describe a stunt, and then pick
effects that match the description.
Both these options exist to add variety, excitement, and choice to the
game. When you first play Iron Heroes, don't be afraid to experiment.
Stunts and challenges take some getting used to.

OFFENSIVE STUNTS
There are three types of offensive stunt. All of them count as
attack actions.

ATTACK STUNT (FULL ATTACK)
You use a full attack action to combine a stunt with an attack.
Usually this stunt check requires you to make an acrobatic
maneuver as you deliver an attack or somehow use the environment
to improve your attack's potency. The target of this stunt
makes a skill or base attack check opposed by your own check.
You gain either a +1 bonus to your attack or a +2 bonus
to damage. You can increase either of these bonuses, with
no maximum limit, in return for a '"2 penalty to your stunt
check for each point of increase. You cannot gain both a
bonus to an attack and a bonus to damage. You must choose
one or the other.
You enjoy this bonus until the end of your action against
the foe who opposed your stunt check.
Failure: If this stunt fails, you attack without the bonus to
your attack or damage.
Special: If you use Climb, Jump, or Tumble with an attack
stunt, you may move up to half your speed as part of this
stunt action. For example, if you use Climb to scramble up a
wall and then, in the next round, jump down, sword first, to
impale a monster, you could move half your speed following
the attack to represent you rolling away from the beast or
bouncing off it after the strike. This movement does not draw
an attack of opportunity from the stunt's target if the stunt
succeeds. It draws attacks of opportunity from other creatures
as normal, regardless of success or failure.
Fast Stunt: At higher levels, you might want to use a stunt
to improve your attacks while still gaining a full attack
action. In this case, you can attempt a stunt as a free action.
You cannot move as part of the stunt (as described under
'Special,' above), and you suffer a '"5 penalty to your stunt
check. If you fail the stunt check, you suffer a '"2 penalty to
your attacks as your stratagem fails to trick your foe.
Otherwise, use the standard rules given above.
Examples: Use the Jump skill to leap over a foe and attack
him from above. Use Balance to run along a giant's club and
slash at its arms. Use Tumble to dodge between an ogre's legs
while slashing at it from behind.

DISRUPTING ATTACK (FULL ATTACK)
You fire an arrow into a dragon's maw, leaving it unable to
breathe fire for a short time. You splash ink onto a basilisk's
face, nullifying the effect of its gaze to turn your friends into
stone. These are example of disrupting attack stunts.
The disrupting attack stunt works a bit differently from the
other offensive stunts. You must bid on the Fortitude save
DC your target must beat to continue using a supernatural
ability or an extraordinary ability. Once you pick the DC, you
then must make a skill check with a DC equal to the chosen
save DC + 10. If you succeed, your foe loses the use of the
attack mode of your choice for 1 round. If the creature randomly
determines how often it can use an ability, increase
the time it must wait by 1 round. For example, a dragon
might be able to breathe once every 1d4 rounds. If you successfully
used this stunt against it, it would have to wait 1
extra round before breathing again.
Failure: If this stunt fails, the creature continues to use its
special ability as normal.
Special: If you use a base attack check to complete this
stunt, you inflict your attack's damage without any bonuses.
In this case, you trade brute force for accuracy and precision.
If you use an improvised weapon, you do not gain this benefit.
Examples: Use a base attack check to injure a creature's
eyes, preventing it from using a deadly gaze. Use a Spot check
to target a gorgon's throat before firing so that your arrow
disrupts its breath weapon.

INFLICT PENALTY (STANDARD ATTACK)
You attempt to inflict a penalty to an opponent's attacks,
defense, or skill and ability checks (your choice). You throw
sand in his eyes to disrupt him, tangle him up with a length
of rope, or otherwise confuse his efforts. Your foe opposes
your check using the same skill or ability, or with a base
attack check. (The target chooses one of the two.)
You inflict a base '"2 penalty for 1 round. You can increase
the duration by 1 round and/or the penalty by '"1 by accepting
a '"2 penalty to your check. There is no limit to the total
penalty or duration.
Failure: If your stunt fails, the target suffers none of the
penalties you attempted to inflict.
Examples: Use a base attack check to throw sand in an
ogre's eye. Use Bluff to trick an opponent into letting his
guard down for a moment. Use a base attack check to slam
your shield into a foe, knocking him off balance. Use the Use
Rope skill to lasso a foe and hinder him for a few moments.

DEFENSIVE STUNTS
The defensive stunts all count as move actions. Most of
them provide a benefit to you if you complete them on
your turn.

SKILLS VERSUS STUNTS
Before you attempt a stunt, remember that many of the skills allow
you to complete challenging actions in combat. If you want to run
along a rope that stretches from the ground to the top of a castle's
wall, that's merely a Balance skill check. If you need to leap into the
saddle of a speeding horse, make a Jump check to land on the horse
and a Ride check to control it. Stunts are meant to supplement normal
skill checks, not replace them. Remember, the expanded uses for
skills offered in Chapter Four make skills more useful than normal in
combat.

DEFENSE BONUS (MOVE ACTION)
You use a combination of the terrain and your abilities to
improve your defense against a single opponent. Your stunt
check is a skill or base attack check opposed by your foe's
check. If you succeed, you gain an active bonus to defense.
You gain a +2 active bonus to defense if you succeed at
this stunt. You can increase this bonus by +1 in exchange for
a '"2 penalty to your check, with no limit on the bonus you
bid on. This bonus lasts until the start of your next action.
Failure: If this stunt fails, your opponent gains a +1 bonus
on attacks against you until the start of your next action.
Examples: Use Bluff to trick an opponent into thinking
you dodge left when you break to the right. Use Jump to leap
into the air and over an opponent's attack. Use Sense Motive
to see where an opponent aims his attack. Use Tumble to
dodge around the statue that stands behind you.

SAVE BONUS (MOVE ACTION)
You take action to foil an opponent's special attacks. Maybe
you cut your thumb on your knife, using the pain to throw
off a witch's charm. Or perhaps you hold your breath rather
than breathe in poisonous fumes.
You must make a skill or ability check as your stunt check.
You gain a +2 bonus to one type of save against a single
effect or opponent of your choice with a DC 20 check. You
increase this bonus by +1 for every 5 points you increase the
Difficulty Class, with no limit on the bonus you can gain.
This bonus lasts until the start of your next action.
Failure: You suffer no special drawbacks if this stunt fails.
Special: Unlike other stunts, the save bonus places limits
on the skills and abilities you can use to gain its benefits.
To gain a bonus to Reflex saves, you must use a Dexterity
or Dexterity-based skill check as your stunt check. For Will
saves, use a Wisdom or Wisdom-based skill check. For
Fortitude saves, use a Constitution or Constitution-based
skill (in other words, Concentration) check.
Examples: Use Concentration to ignore a poison's crippling
effects. Use Tumble to dodge a lightning bolt. Use
Sense Motive to resist a medusa's attempt to ensorcel you.

MANEUVER STUNTS
The single maneuver stunt makes it easier for you to move
across the battlefield.

IMPROVED SPEED (SPECIAL ACTION)
You spring off a wall, swing along a length of rope, or use a
steep slope to increase your speed. You may make a skill
check (DC 20) to gain a +1 square bonus to your speed for
the round. You can increase your speed bonus by +1 in
return for a +5 modifier to the DC. You cannot increase your
speed by more than double in this manner.
You make this check as part of your movement, and the
bonus applies only to your current move or standard action
used to move. You can use this stunt once per round.
Failure: On a failed check, reduce your speed by the
amount you attempted to increase it.
Special: You can only use skills based on Strength or
Dexterity, or those two abilities, to attempt this stunt.
Examples: Use Balance to sprint down a slope. Use Tumble
to roll across a slippery bridge. Use the Use Rope skill to
swing across a ship's rigging.

Looking back to the recruitment thread I realized Cataclysmic Crow has a festival on the 29th and 30th (right?), so the 5th or the 6th would be best; Light Dragon may be available on the 6th, so so long as Ghostman can make it to that I think we'll try it then.  The 8th-9th I'm moving back across the country so I'll be out of commission, and I'll definitely need the 7th for packing.

SO, long story short, if no one has any objections, we'll aim for the 6th of July, at 1:30 PST, i.e. 4:30 GST.  After that we'll do our best to work around people's schedules, but we'll try for Tuesdays.

The first session will in part be a combat tutorial for those not well acquainted with the rules of D&D.  Combat rules can be found here (http://www.d20srd.org/indexes/combat.htm), but don't feel you have to memorize a ton of rules - d20 combat is mostly pretty simple once you get stuck in the thick of it, and we've got plenty of veterans in the group to explain the rules as we go.

Quote from: SteerpikePERFECT spell - looks pretty balanced to me.  How are the above timeslots for you, Ghostman?

EDIT: Rebalanced versions of the spells look excellent.  Both totally capture the bizarre, horrific atmosphere I'm aiming for.  Very minor fix, but should "quenched" be "drenched" in the Blood Bait spell?

Glad you like it. I tweaked the Blade Hungers spell a bit, adding a statement that breaking a possessed weapon frees the bound spirit, which might manifest in physical form or try and possess a random character. Not very likely to actually happen, but it seemed a logical consequence given the concept of the spell.

Quote from: SteerpikeSO, long story short, if no one has any objections, we'll aim for the 6th of July, at 1:30 PST, i.e. 4:30 GST.  After that we'll do our best to work around people's schedules, but we'll try for Tuesdays.

Date's fine with me :)

Good stuff.

Do you want Tarim to have a set of rooms or even a workshop somewhere in the city?

I don't think Gorethirst will need a room or anything. I figure he's relatively new to town and he's just been sleeping in the catacombs with other leechkin and cestoids.

It really would be difficult for me to play before the 5th/6th of July. But I'm okay with entering the game a session or two late if that works.

[blockquote=Cataclysmic Crow]It really would be difficult for me to play before the 5th/6th of July. But I'm okay with entering the game a session or two late if that works. [/blockquote] We're going to start on the 6th, I think.

A dwelling for Tarim would make sense, he's been staying in the city long enough. I think he would go for a place that is both reasonably tidy and inconspicuous. Preferably close to the Hexwarren but not actually within that district, as it would seem to him too obvious for a witch's home.

Wormhive would be the most likely choice.  For five hundred obeloi he could even have a small tower, but that might be a bit ostentatious... a set of rooms over a shop or in a large residential tower-block might make more sense.  You might even consider buying an alchemist's lab (500 obeloi) to put in your rooms, though I leave that entirely to you.

How about you, Cataclysmic Crow?  Would Mr. Carver have a residence?  Perhaps in the slums of Resurrection Row (does he live with Woundtender?)?

Woundtender died, and he fled the premises after that. He probably wouldn't go back. But yes, he might have a cheap "clinic" somewhere in Resurrection Row. That would make sense.

Ah, right.  The shabby clinic makes sense though.

Quote from: Steerpikea set of rooms over a shop or in a large residential tower-block might make more sense

How much would such a dwelling cost in the Wormhive?

I'd imagine when Lady Genevieve first arrived in Macellaria she would have had a fairly substantial residence. However, as her illness developed Kaius was forced to seek progressively worse accommodations for them. I was imagining where they were in the short story I wrote being the top floor of a small tenement building, how much would that be?

Alright, I replace one of the feats on Gorethirst with one of the feats from the Player's Companion. Sudden Strike Mastery I gives me the Quick Draw feat for that specific weapon only(a greataxe in my case), and I also get +1 damage/hit on my first attack after I draw my weapon.

The Wormhive rooms would probably cost about 15 obeloi a month (for fairly nice rooms), the low-quality tenement rooms 10 a month (if they were in a poor neighborhood).  Sound reasonable?

The Feat looks like a good choice, Llum.

Would anyone mind if I moved the time back half an hour on the 6th?  I realized that the 6th will be part of the brief window when I'll still be in Ontario but won't have internet access (I'm moving to Vancouver, but there's a week where the companies will have turned off my services where I'll still be around, and the 6th is in that week).  It's not a big deal - there's a library next to my house where I can get free WiFi, but it closes at 6:30 EST, so if we want to get a solid 2 hours in I think we should start at 1PM PST/ 4PM EST.  I could, alternatively, go to a different library and squeeze out a little more time, but even that one closes at 7:45.

"Nice" rooms for 15/month it is, then. And starting 30 minutes earlier would be much the better for me - so I wouldn't mind always starting at that time :-p

Quote from: SteerpikeWould anyone mind if I moved the time back half an hour on the 6th?  I realized that the 6th will be part of the brief window when I'll still be in Ontario but won't have internet access (I'm moving to Vancouver, but there's a week where the companies will have turned off my services where I'll still be around, and the 6th is in that week).  It's not a big deal - there's a library next to my house where I can get free WiFi, but it closes at 6:30 EST, so if we want to get a solid 2 hours in I think we should start at 1PM PST/ 4PM EST.  I could, alternatively, go to a different library and squeeze out a little more time, but even that one closes at 7:45.

Starting earlier actually works better for me.

Starting earlier shouldn't be a problem for me. Still gives me about 15~ minutes leeway from when I'm normally home from work.

Unless I've overlooked something (I'm not exactly the master of planning) that should be completely fine for me.
Small favor: could we state the times in GMT instead? Makes it easier to figure out as I otherwise have to look up what PST and EST corresponds to in that system... I think PST is GMT-8, so starting 1 PST would mean 10 GMT+1 (my time zone) for me.

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowUnless I've overlooked something (I'm not exactly the master of planning) that should be completely fine for me.
Small favor: could we state the times in GMT instead? Makes it easier to figure out as I otherwise have to look up what PST and EST corresponds to in that system... I think PST is GMT-8, so starting 1 PST would mean 10 GMT+1 (my time zone) for me.

Yes PST is -8 (EST is -5). I'd advise against switching to GMT since then you are just confusing all the non-GMT people. Probably best to state GMT though, alongside the others.

I'll do that in future.  So it's at 1 PST, 4 EST, 9 GMT, 10 GMT+1.

Oh, I thought you (i.e. americans) used GMT too, and that you just used the other acronyms colloquially as they came up often.

So I was reading on the Iron Heroes website how in Iron Heroes 2 (due out sometime 2011) will be changed a bit. The one changed that I thought was really neat and that I liked quite a bit was this.

In IH every 4 levels a character gets 1 attribute increase. In IH2 every 4 levels a character gets 4 point-buy-points, similar. Stat increases cost the same as character creation. So it's the same increases for attributes over 17, but it lets you level up lower attributes a bit more as opposed to "wasting" points sinking them in something that's low.

What do you guys think about this?

Interesting.  Do you know if it's going to be based on 4E D&D, or an updated version of 3.5??

It kinda sounds like a hybrid of both to be honest. The core mechanics seem 3.5ish (to my untrained eye) but it seems to incorporate some elements of 4th (once again, to my untrained eye).

Here's the link (http://okayyourturn.yuku.com/forum/view/id/9)

Each different aspect has their own topic on how they're going to change and stuff. Check it out :D

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowOh, I thought you (i.e. americans) used GMT too, and that you just used the other acronyms colloquially as they came up often.

This is a joke right? Please tell me this is a joke.

This might be considered something of a derailment of the thread, so I'll spoilerize it.

[spoiler=Answer for Nomadic]
Why would it be a joke? GMT seems to be the system used by most countries, indeed, it is the only system you can rely on to describe time zones in most areas of the world. But seeing as a large country like the US only uses a few of these time zones when travelling cross-country, an internal time system makes perfect sense. But since no numbers are involved, only names, you would also need some kind of reference frame (like GMT, since it directly describes the difference between zones by a number).
If you are offended about something please tell me, because I'm not sure I can discern what it is you are offended about... Or maybe it's just that famous loss of tone playing tricks again.  
[/spoiler]

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowThis might be considered something of a derailment of the thread, so I'll spoilerize it.

[spoiler=Answer for Nomadic]
Why would it be a joke? GMT seems to be the system used by most countries, indeed, it is the only system you can rely on to describe time zones in most areas of the world. But seeing as a large country like the US only uses a few of these time zones when travelling cross-country, an internal time system makes perfect sense. But since no numbers are involved, only names, you would also need some kind of reference frame (like GMT, since it directly describes the difference between zones by a number).
If you are offended about something please tell me, because I'm not sure I can discern what it is you are offended about... Or maybe it's just that famous loss of tone playing tricks again.  
[/spoiler]

Mostly loss of tone, though you're the first person I've ever known who didn't know about Americans using timezone names. Most of the Europeans I know/knew not only know about the system but know all the names. Part of it I'm sure has to do with the fact that the online world is still very "American heavy" and so times tend to be scheduled around North American timezones (though generally with a bit on the end giving the GMT time for everyone else). As for reference frame, use it long enough and you will in a split second go "It's 9am over here in PST and you're in EST so it's 12pm your time". But us Americans get very good at rapid recall of odd measurements and conversions since we still use that damned imperial measurement system.

It's kind of ingrained in us from North American TV, which constantly advertises shows etc with eastern/pacific time tagged on.  I can see why if you weren't aware of how prominent they were you might think we relied on the GMT +/- thing, though... probably makes more sense (like the metric system, which at least we Canadians have adopted).

Oh, I did know you used it, I thought that was clear. I just didn't know you used it exclusively without any reference whatsoever to GMT. Thought you used both interchangeably.

Quote from: Cataclysmic CrowOh, I did know you used it, I thought that was clear. I just didn't know you used it exclusively without any reference whatsoever to GMT. Thought you used both interchangeably.

Well we know about GMT enough to be able to use it when it's necessary (like with people from Europe) but internal references are largely made to one of the timezone names. The more you know...

>>Well we know about GMT enough to be able to use it when it's necessary

I would be willing to bet that at a minimum 1/5th of Americans have no idea what GMT is. I do not recall seeing many if any references to GMT in America.

Fun fact for Crow- the continental US and Europe have the same amount of time zones (4). The US has more if you don't count part of Russia as European. And China is one large time zone.

Quote from: Light Dragon>>Well we know about GMT enough to be able to use it when it's necessary

I would be willing to bet that at a minimum 1/5th of Americans have no idea what GMT is. I do not recall seeing many if any references to GMT in America.

You will find few references to it but that has nothing to do with a lack of knowledge. Very few Americans use Metric, but very few don't know about it.

I've been thinking, and I've decided we're going to use the D&D 3.5 experience tables instead of the Iron Heroes ones.  Usually Iron Heroes characters advance more slowly than 3.5 ones, but since this game is going to be online the combination of a fairly slow pace and the Iron Heroes charts would mean that characters would likely have very limited room for development.

More House-rules: I'll be using the Ravenloft Madness, Fear, and Horror saves for CE.  These are essentially Will saves made when certain situations are encountered; if you fail, depending on the severity of the horror/terror/madness-inducing creature, you suffer from one of a number of effects.  This is how something like a gorgon's gaze would work, and could also cause things like nausea in the face of particularly horrific imagery.

Will Kaius' trait 'Brave' still work?

That reminds me, I need to pick the rest of my skills and feats.

Ghilan are immune to fear?

I didn't know that. Can't seem to find it anywhere, though. I've probably missed it five times.

no nvm, misread

Brave will still work, but you'd still be susceptible to horror and madness.

(Ghilan are still susceptible, though shades aren't).

Just to remind everyone, we're going to be playing tomorrow at 4 PM EST (9PM GMT) on mIRC on the celtrica channel (#celtrica) since it has isomage's excellent isobot dice-bot.

Is the isobot thing something we have to install on our own pcs or does it come with the channel?

It's on the channel.

I will plan to be there- but will be using a new irc client, so please watch the main page chat box in case I have trouble getting into the chat around that time. (I will attempt to be early.)

Anyone know how to get into it via Chatzilla?

Did some final tweaks on my character sheet (http://www.thecbg.org/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?80551.0#post_80608), hopefully it's all ready for the game now. There's also a small story about the "Black Scroll Incident", explaining how my character got sentenced into the Pulsetown Pits - and why he may have a bone to pick with a certain member of the House of Iridescent Angles.

I have also finished my character sheet (on page two). I think I'm ready for the game later!

With regards to scheduling our next session, how would Sunday the 11th work for people as a tentative date (same time of day)?

Warning in advance - I might have to cancel/change dates as I'm trying to set up an apartment viewing over the next few days for a very nice place that might be snapped up soon in the voracious shark-pit that is the Vancouver housing market, and if I get a chance to view it I'll have to take it.  I'll try to avoid this if at all possible, though, and this sort of thing likely won't interfere with later session scheduling.

The 11th works for me.

Should be ok for me.

Weekends are always iffy for me. I'll try and make it.

I cannot make Sundays

Quote from: SteerpikeWith regards to scheduling our next session, how would Sunday the 11th work for people as a tentative date (same time of day)?

Warning in advance - I might have to cancel/change dates as I'm trying to set up an apartment viewing over the next few days for a very nice place that might be snapped up soon in the voracious shark-pit that is the Vancouver housing market, and if I get a chance to view it I'll have to take it.  I'll try to avoid this if at all possible, though, and this sort of thing likely won't interfere with later session scheduling.

good luck on the aprtment hunting, btw!

No objection, though as always my availability is sketchy and variable at times. I currently have no conflict for that date however. Good luck with the house-hunting!

One definite no and one iffy sounds a bit dubious.  Cataclysmic Crow, when do you get back from your trip?

I'm open to playing smaller sessions or partial sessions (even solo sessions if they're called for my some specific plot point) as well, so long as everyone's OK with that.  Getting 7 people together in disparate time zones regularly may prove too difficult to sustain perfect attendance.  While we're in the city at least it'd be fairly easy to justify characters temporarily dropping out of the action.

EDIT: I checked the logs and Crow did say he'd be OK if we played a session without him.  Nomadic (and everyone else for that matter), would Monday - the 12th - or Tuesday the 13th work for you/everyone?  If so it would probably be best to make one of those days the official game day...

Ether tuesday or monday is fine with me. Weekdays I don't really have anything on my plate besides work.

I don't want to comit to weekends (friday-sunday) because things tend to come up.

As for partial/smaller/individual sessions, go nuts. I'm not the only player in this game so if it works for other people go crazy.

Another suggestion, I think I may have mentioned it before; but since you were discussing the streets of Macellaria; why not run the next game in MapTools instead of IRC?

MapTools has its own diceroller and is much more private; people can't just wander into the text-- it's also more secure I believe, than IRC; provided that the connection info is only provided to the people connecting to the game via PM rather than broadcast publicly.

MapTools also lets you draw battlemaps and to let players place their heroes quite easily.

I hate maptools (and any other program of that type) :P

oh and Monday would be perfect for me (tuesday should also work).

I'd be willing to try maptools, but only if everyone else wanted to.

Nomadic- what is the problem? I had huge issues with MapTools when I used it in 2004/2005, but I gave it another look this year and I am extremely impressed and have successfully used it without hiccups for about 6-8 events over the course of the year as both a player and a GM.

Also; Mondays and Fridays are a no-go for me always unless the game starts later than 7PM EST. Tue-Thu I might be able to deal with a 3PM EST start, but that will vary depending on work schedules, which are significant through July and August.  After 7PM EST I will generally be free on most if not all days. Sat/Sun are good days but of course other commitments; camping trips, hiking, etc. take precedence... and those tend to materialize out of the ether.

Quote from: Light DragonNomadic- what is the problem? I had huge issues with MapTools when I used it in 2004/2005, but I gave it another look this year and I am extremely impressed and have successfully used it without hiccups for about 6-8 events over the course of the year as both a player and a GM.

Also; Mondays and Fridays are a no-go for me always unless the game starts later than 7PM EST. Tue-Thu I might be able to deal with a 3PM EST start, but that will vary depending on work schedules, which are significant through July and August.  After 7PM EST I will generally be free on most if not all days. Sat/Sun are good days but of course other commitments; camping trips, hiking, etc. take precedence... and those tend to materialize out of the ether.

It's not maptools it's all programs of that type, I just don't like them.

I dislike maptools. I tried out the program at I wasn't really thrilled. The UI wasn't hot. Not to mention I get an error every time I try to uninstall the progam. I'd rather not use it.

I mean, is an IRC program *that* insecure? Did we even have issues with other people in the chat?

Quote from: LlumI dislike maptools. I tried out the program at I wasn't really thrilled. The UI wasn't hot. Not to mention I get an error every time I try to uninstall the progam. I'd rather not use it.

I mean, is an IRC program *that* insecure? Did we even have issues with other people in the chat?

No we didn't not to mention it would be beyond easy to fix if it does become a problem by creating a cadaverous earth channel with a channel key.

You dislike programs of that type? That's a silly objection- it's mapping software- we could actually see where we are placing our characters, which seems like it could and is going to be an issue with this game-- with Tempter it is not an issue, but with this game, it could be important.

The UI is not great, correct; but after tutorial with another and learning on my own (combined time 3-4 hours) I had no problems running a game in it as a GM.

As a player all you have to do is place your unit and move it on the board and type in /roll 1d20+modifier when you need to roll. There is nothing else required of you. (players take perhaps 20 minutes to learn how to use it--at most.)

It also keeps track of initiative automatically.

As for IRC's security, I recall reading how it is often used to run botnets and that the scripting on some channels can be remotely and automatically downloaded to your computer just by being on x channel-- which cannot be done in MapTools. Also, it consistently broadcasts your IP address to everyone- MapTools at most only lets people on MapTools see your IP, and other than the hosts' IP address; I haven't been able to see anyone's IP address.

Also, MapTools is free.

Quote from: Light DragonAlso, MapTools is free.

IRC is free.

I've downloaded maptools and played around with it, and liked what I saw, but realized that if I tried to convert my city maps to maptools it'd take a long, long time.  For now I'd like to stick with IRC, and if the map thing becomes a big issue perhaps we'll experiment.

Tuesdays still sound like the best day for everyone.  If anyone can't make it to the game, I'll either have that character drop out of the action on some other pretext or if necessary play the character myself (I'll be gentle) for that session, if dropping out just isn't conceivable (say you're smack dab in the middle of the desert or something).

Looking forward to the next session!  You guys have very good interactions and all seem to have an excellent grasp of your characters.

BTW, everyone gets 500 XP for killing the waxborn and escaping the pits!

Quote from: Light DragonIt also keeps track of initiative automatically.

Also, MapTools is free.
[/quote]

As llum said, so is IRC.

Whew - first timezones, now rpg software!  My thread seems to be a breeding ground for mild antagonism.

For the record, I think maptools looks pretty darn cool, it would just take a lot of time and effort to fully utilize its capabilities...

Been having some trouble getting on CBG today, but now I'm on again. I can't play before the 21st as it stands now. But if you can make it work with the others, just go ahead and run a session without me. Can't hold you all back. :)  

If you like (and have the time), Crow, we could even play a "what Mr. Carver did while the other players did X" mini-session when you get back.

the answer is of course: grafts :p

Quote from: Cataclysmic Crowthe answer is of course: grafts :p

TURTLE GRAFTS!

At Ghostman's suggestion I have posted the official play time (4:15 PM EST/8PM GMT, Tuesdays) from now on up on the front page - though late-comers are very welcome.

We are playing a special mini-session tomorrow (Wednesday the 14th) at 4:15 EST, 8 PM GMT, involving Tarim, Eareg, and the Gorethirst, though if anyone else wanted to make an appearance I could probably work them in without much trouble!

I may be a bit late on the next game. Depends if a meeting runs long or not.

No problem.

I have various small encounters for some of those returning to their homes in the city, so we'll have plenty to keep us occupied while waiting for any late-comers.

So, we're playing today at 4:15, right? Just want to confirm.

Yep, 4:15 today!

(Anyone who shows up late is MORE than welcome to jump in!)

Would everyone be ok if we start today's game with a visit to the markets? Our PCs now have quite a few items of loot from previous games and I think it's high time they liquidated some of them.

Stop at the markets on our way back with a dead body? :D

We could hide the corpse for the while. It's not like it should take very long to get some sales done.

No one will sniff twice at you carting around a dead body in the Skin Markets at least (like, slung over Corpsegobble or something), but hiding it's also a good plan.  Mr. Carver and Kaius both have homes in Resurrection Row, which is just south of the Curio Bazaars, so that also might be a possible place to stash it.

Just put a bag over Lucretius' head so no one recognizes his corpse, and I think we'll be fine.

Edit: Although, we could also put it in Kaius's tenement, if you guys want. Might be better than Mr. Carver's, less traffic, sturdy lock and a (possibly!) functioning ward.  

So, since we ended on a cliffhanger and Nomadic can't make next tuesday, we're left in a slightly tricky spot as to what to do/

Ideally, if we could squeeze in anotehr session, that would be fantastic.  I assume that thus Thursday is mostly no good since that's SIG, but what time do you guys start on that?  How's this Wednesday and Friday for people?

I'll pop on the chat periodicaly and keep a lookout in case we all converge.

In case we don't manage to make it next time I'll play Eareg for the remainder of the fight, and then he can drop away on business or rest for a couple of days.  After killing a Tattered Web Guildsman it probably makes sense to lay low a few days anyway.  However, this is a last resort.

There's pretty much no way I could make it today (wednesday the 28th). The SIG is at 8:30 EST, but if we have both games thursday, that means a ridiculous amount of time spent in front of the computer.

That being said, Gorethirst sheet is up to date (combat wise). Feel free to play him. I have 3 rounds left of Berzerk Strength (+2 str/con and can extend it for 2 rounds with 1 fury token).

I can play pretty much whenever. I don't really have anything going on.

In case Vreeg's game doesn't work out tommorrow, I'll be online at the usual CE time, and I'll probably pop on at the SIG time as well, just to let everyone know!  Friday may be tricky for me, but I'll be around for a couple hours anyway...

EDIT: If it doesn't work out tommorow (or if there's still SIG, which actually seems quite possible, from what I gather) we could try for Monday, perhaps, though that may not work for everyone.  Stupid zombies screw everything up.

Just so you know I'll be gone Sunday and won't be back until the next Saturday (and I'll probably be too exhausted to be play that day). I'll show up at the usual time tomorrow through this Saturday on IRC. If it doesn't work out just finish up the fight for me and have Eareg take off for a bit to finish up some unfinished business. He can catch up to the group as they head for the Jatayi place since he's familiar with the badlands. If you want to do a side session for what he did while he was off we can, if not that's cool too.

If Eareg isn't around, we might just linger around town. He is the survival expert. We might have trouble getting there without his expertise.

I think Gorethirst or Kaius are the most well travelled aside from Eareg. And Gorethirst has travelled a good distance (Lophius is one of the farther cities from Macellaria I believe) he's still more at home in the cities.

Quote from: LlumIf Eareg isn't around, we might just linger around town. He is the survival expert. We might have trouble getting there without his expertise.

I think Gorethirst or Kaius are the most well travelled aside from Eareg. And Gorethirst has travelled a good distance (Lophius is one of the farther cities from Macellaria I believe) he's still more at home in the cities.

I guess that is very true. Well while I would really love to be there for the sendoff steerpike is free to run Eareg for me if you guys want to take off. If not then stick around town and I'll be back for the week after :)

There is a LOT either left to do in the city or that I'm planning on throwing at you guys in the city, so I think there'll be more than enough to do while Eareg is away.

Incidentally, I'm planning on running a make-up session with Wispy at some point... if the timelines work out there could be a combined make up session with Wispy/Eareg, who would make a hilarious pair (only Kaius/Wispy would be more of an odd couple, I think).  If not there can always be two make up sessions.

Like Nomadic I'll log on the next couple days at the usual time.  Friday evening PST (like 8PM+EST) I'll be busy, but until then I'm free - the benefit of being a jobless student between degrees!

I'd just like to say, I'm *TREMENDOUSLY* pleased with how this is working out, and I really appreciate the time, effort, dedication, and patience everyone has put in, including those who haven't been able to make every session.  I was a bit sceptical originally about how fun an ongoing online game could be, and my expectations have been wildly exceeded, almost entirely because of you guys.  Your role-playing so far has been exquisite; in fact, far better than some of my experiences with face-to-face tabletop roleplaying in larger groups.

So, thanks so much to everyone involved!!!

>>Incidentally, I'm planning on running a make-up session with Wispy at some point... if the timelines work out there could be a combined make up session with Wispy/Eareg, who would make a hilarious pair (only Kaius/Wispy would be more of an odd couple, I think). If not there can always be two make up sessions.


Hmmm. If I recall correctly, if Eareg and Wispy end up together, one probably isn't walking away alive because neither of them appear to tolerate the other at all :D...

And I think Kaius was respectfully/disdainfully avoiding Wispy, so I likewise fear for Wispy's safety.

Should be interesting to see how that turns out.

You are running a very fine game!

Quote from: Light Dragon>>Incidentally, I'm planning on running a make-up session with Wispy at some point... if the timelines work out there could be a combined make up session with Wispy/Eareg, who would make a hilarious pair (only Kaius/Wispy would be more of an odd couple, I think). If not there can always be two make up sessions.


Hmmm. If I recall correctly, if Eareg and Wispy end up together, one probably isn't walking away alive because neither of them appear to tolerate the other at all :D...

And I think Kaius was respectfully/disdainfully avoiding Wispy, so I likewise fear for Wispy's safety.

Should be interesting to see how that turns out.

You are running a very fine game!

While only subtle hints have shown up in the game to point it out, Eareg is actually very fond of the Jatayi and would put up with alot more from one than from another Ghilian.

Updated my character sheet (except spells)

Character sheet looks good, Nomadic!

[blockquote=Light Dragon]You are running a very fine game! [/blockquote]Thank you!

I'm really unsure when I'll be able to play within the next week or so since my plans are a bit messed up. If I do find a hole in my schedule anywhere I'll let you know.
And yes, I agree, this has been tremendous fun! Keep up the good work, Steer (and the good roleplaying, my fellow players).

I'm going to be running anotehr make-up session with Light Dragon probably next week, and those who've missed some sessions (Crow, Nomadic) are welcome to join, though as a head's up, there'll be less than legal tomfoolery involved, if Wispy goes for the hook I present.

Light Dragon what'd be the best time for you??

I would be ok with this

When are you running the make-up session for LD?
I'd really like to join the game this tuesday, but my own face-to-face RP group wants to meet that day and even though I haven't really gotten anything prepared I feel it's difficult to just say no to them... On the bright side, when I actually get back to studying after the vacation, tuesdays are near perfect for my schedule.
So for now I'll apologize for my horrible inability to arrive at most games...

I'm still waiting for his replay from my private message, but I'll let you guys know when that happens.  I'm pretty un-busy for the next couple of weeks so if you guys'd like to squeeze another one in somewhere that can also be easily arranged...

Hi, I just replied to steerpike. We are working something out.

Here are the two possible times: Thursday the 12th 7 or 8PM EST or Tuesday the 17th 7 or 8PM EST.  Crow, Nomadic, would either of you be able to make one of these times?

Would the Thursday one rub up against the SIG?

Dunno if maybe these times are too late for you, Crow?

Quote from: SteerpikeHere are the two possible times: Thursday the 12th 7 or 8PM EST or Tuesday the 17th 7 or 8PM EST.  Crow, Nomadic, would either of you be able to make one of these times?

Would the Thursday one rub up against the SIG?

Dunno if maybe these times are too late for you, Crow?

Thursday would basically directly intersect the celtricia game. Tuesday would work for me only if the game started no later than 7 and only if it ran an hour and a half or less.

okay, with the 6-hour difference, I'd have to be available for play at either 1-2 AM on the 13th or 1-2 AM on the 18th in GMT+1, right?
I could always just sleep earlier or later, so I guess I could make it. No promises though, seeing as it's in the middle of the night. But I'll try!  

Hmm, well, I think what we'll do is try is on Tuesday.  Nomadic and Crow, you're welcoem to come if you want, but please don't feel obliged in any sense at all - I designed the adventure to be easy scaled, and Wispy could handle it solo.  If either of you want I can always run another session at a more convenient time (particularly for Crow... 1-2 AM is pretty ridiculously late to play!).

Just so you know, my ISP is going to be doing maintenance soon. While I can make it to today's game, there's some risk that I might lose connection suddenly.

I realized multi-classing in IH is a bit tricky, so here's what the book has to say on the matter:

MULTICLASSING

As you gain levels, you can choose to advance within your current
class or begin taking levels in a new class. In Iron Heroes, there is
no restriction on how many classes you can take.
When you take more than one class, you gain flexibility at the
cost of expertise. You master a second fighting style, but your abilities
in both styles are weaker than those of a character advancing
in only one class. The key to building an effective multiclassed
character lies in finding class abilities that complement each
other. For example, a berserker/archer combination might not
prove a good fit. The berserker class works best when surrounded
by enemies in close quarters, while an archer thrives away from
melee.

Use the following guidelines to determine the various abilities
and talents of a multiclassed character.

Level: 'Character level' is a character's total number of levels,
determined by adding all class levels together. Use it to determine
when you gain the benefits outlined in the Skill, Feat, and Ability
Improvements table on page 29 and to figure the maximum ranks
you can have in a skill.

Your level in a particular class determines how some abilities
work. If this is the case, the ability specifies that you must base its
function off the 'class level' rather than your overall character
level.

Hit Points: Upon attaining a new level, you gain hit points
according to the class you just advanced in. Add these new hit
points to your total from previous levels.

Base Attack Bonus: Add the base attack bonuses acquired for
each class to get your new base attack bonus. If the resulting value
is +6 or higher, you get multiple attacks. Every time you can subtract
5 from the base attack bonus of the lowest attack and get a
positive result, you get an additional attack. Thus, when a character
has a base attack bonus of +6, she gets an additional attack
with a +1 base attack bonus. (This is represented as '+6/+1' in
class tables.) As the base attack bonus increases, the bonuses for
all attacks increase as well. So when the base attack bonus rises to
+7, the second attack becomes +2 (+7/+2). When her base attack
bonus rises to +11/+6, she gets a third attack at +1 (+11/+6/+1),
and so on. The maximum number of iterative attacks you can have
is four.

If you have levels in archer or weapon master, add the attack
bonus from your other classes to your special, weapon-specific
bonuses.

Base Defense Bonus: Add the base defense bonuses provided
by each of your classes together. If more than one of your classes
has an average base defense progression, apply a '"1 penalty to
your total base defense if you are 6th level or higher, a '"2 penalty
if you are 12th level or higher, or a '"3 penalty if you are 18th level
or higher. Apply only the highest penalty. For example, an 18thlevel
multiclassed character with more than one class with an
average base defense progression suffers a '"3 modifier to his total
base defense.

Saving Throws: Add together the base save bonuses for each
class.

Skills: Regardless of the class that you advanced in with your
new level, you can spend ranks on any of the skill groups available
to your classes. Your total character level determines your maximum
ranks.

If you have levels in the thief class, your maximum ranks equal
either your thief class level + 5 or your character level + 3,
whichever is greater.

Class Features: Multiclassed characters get all the class features
of all their classes. If you have access to more than one type
of token pool, you can accumulate tokens for different pools. All
the pools that require you to pick a target must have the same target.
You cannot divide your attention between multiple targets.
Note that token pools from different classes must stay separate. If
you are new to multiclassing, you might wish to have only one
token-generating class until you're more comfortable with it.

Feats: A multiclassed character gains feats based on character
level, regardless of individual class levels.

Feat Masteries: To calculate a multiclass character's mastery
rating in each mastery type, add the full value of the mastery from
the class with the highest value, and half the value of the masteries
from other classes that get that mastery type, rounded down
per class. For example, an Archer 4 / Man-at-Arms 3 has a projectile
feat mastery of 4. He gets 3 from his Archer levels + 1 more
(half his rating of 2) from his Man-at-Arms levels.
Ability Score Increases: A multiclassed character gains ability
score increases based on character level, regardless of individual
class levels.

WHY A BASE DEFENSE PENALTY?
The base defense penalty is an important balancing element. The
average base defense bonus lags behind the excellent progression
starting at 6th level. Thus, you could multiclass into several average
defense classes, taking each to 5th level, and acquire the equivalent
of an excellent defense progression. The penalties solve this problem.

The time next tuesday works for me.

Didn't know if I should post in the logs even though it relates to them, but I just wanted to commend you on your descriptions of places and scenes. Some of them are very well-written! I especially enjoyed the Impossible Dream sequence; that was just pure genius. Some of the bars and the dinner with Mr. Rasp were pretty cool as well.  

Thank you very much!  And it's fine to post in the logs thread.

I forgot to write this down: is the Collar of Cadaverous Communion 1 use/day type item?

Yes.  At will would make it a bit too valuable.

Working on a couple spells to replace a couple others Eareg has. Wanted some things that would better fit his character. I still need one more spell, was thinking a medium ranged touch attack spell (something that would fit meteor nicely) though I am unsure how to handle that. The problem is I can't get into any spell areas that will really mesh with meteor until 2nd and 3rd level spells and taking that many levels of witch this early, I'm not sure if it would be a good idea (or match my characters style). Anyhow, thoughts on these spells? Thoughts for a way to make my ideas work?

Volcanic Bolt

Evocation [Fire]
Level: Fire 1, Sor/Wiz 1
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: 20ft.
Area: Line-shaped burst
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Reflex half
Spell Resistance: Yes

With a gesture and an eldritch word a searing line of volcanic magma erupts from the casters extended finger. The burst travels in a line, searing anything in its path. Any creature caught in the flames takes 1d6 points of fire damage per caster level (maximum 5d6). Flammable materials burn if the flames touch them. A character can extinguish burning items as a full-round action.

-----

Scald

Necromancy
Level: Sor/Wiz 1
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Effect: Ray
Duration: 1 min./level
Saving Throw: None
Spell Resistance: Yes

A fiery ray bursts from your hand. You must succeed on a ranged touch attack to strike the target. The subject takes a penalty to Constitution equal to 1d4+1 per two caster levels (maximum 1d4+5). The subject's Constitution score cannot drop below 1

The second spell seems fine to me, compared to Ray of Enfeeblement. Causes less ability damage, but I'd expect CON damage to be more useful than STR damage.

Damage output of the first one goes up much faster by caster level than that of Magic Missile, although it does allow a save for half. Shouldn't be a problem with Eareg in any case, what with his being multi-classed.

Perhaps rather than damage-dealing spells you could go for something more indirect? For example you could make a spell to "mark" a target with, that makes it easier to hit or negates any partial concealment bonuses. Or a spell to coat someone's eyes with hot smoke that impairs their vision (not total blindness, just some penalties to Spot checks and attack rolls etc). These kinds of spells might be more useful at higher levels, when the meager damage of 1st-level spells just isn't much to speak of.

Quote from: GhostmanDamage output of the first one goes up much faster by caster level than that of Magic Missile, although it does allow a save for half. Shouldn't be a problem with Eareg in any case, what with his being multi-classed.

Perhaps rather than damage-dealing spells you could go for something more indirect? For example you could make a spell to "mark" a target with, that makes it easier to hit or negates any partial concealment bonuses. Or a spell to coat someone's eyes with hot smoke that impairs their vision (not total blindness, just some penalties to Spot checks and attack rolls etc). These kinds of spells might be more useful at higher levels, when the meager damage of 1st-level spells just isn't much to speak of.
[/quote]
Good idea, I'll have to tinker with that a bit I still have a few spells I'd like to replace.

Quote from: NomadicScald

Necromancy
Level: Sor/Wiz 1
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Effect: Ray
Duration: 1 min./level
Saving Throw: None
Spell Resistance: Yes

A fiery ray bursts from your hand. You must succeed on a ranged touch attack to strike the target. The subject takes a penalty to Constitution equal to 1d4+1 per two caster levels (maximum 1d4+5). The subject's Constitution score cannot drop below 1

The thing about con damage is that it also decreases maximum HP (and this potentially current HP) by 1/level per con bonus lost. So this spell could be ridiculously strong (especially towards later levels). Also, for Poison Mastery you need Expanded Mastery 6 to unlock Con damage. I don't think it's something that should be available as a first level spell.

For volcanic bolt how about we change it to a ray (I still want the same or similar damage progression)? As for the con one I could drop it back to a flat 1d4 or even a 1d3 if that would balance it better.

Quote from: NomadicFor volcanic bolt how about we change it to a ray (I still want the same or similar damage progression)? As for the con one I could drop it back to a flat 1d4 or even a 1d3 if that would balance it better.

The only 1-st level spell I can find with d6 damage progression is Shocking Graps, which is a melee touch attack. Doesn't seem like the kind of thing Eareg would want but dunno.

As for Scald, I really don't think that much Con damage should be available at such a low level. It just doesn't seem in line with other spells. However maybe if there was a Fort save of DC 10+caster level to negate?

Quote from: Llum

Quote from: NomadicFor volcanic bolt how about we change it to a ray (I still want the same or similar damage progression)? As for the con one I could drop it back to a flat 1d4 or even a 1d3 if that would balance it better.

Shocking grasp also gives a +3 to attack (a pretty good bonus at level 1) anything that is wearing/made of alot of metal (something not uncommon for an adventurer to find). I think that a fixed range smaller than even the close range base limit isn't unbalancing in comparison to said grasp from shocking grasp (provided I change it to a ray so it can only hit one thing).

As for scald, what about dex damage, that fits in line better with eareg anyhow since his biggest worry is A) enemy ranged attackers... and B) people who can dodge his shots well. Something like a 1d4+1/2 level since dex is still slightly stronger than strength.

Quote from: NomadicAs for scald, what about dex damage, that fits in line better with eareg anyhow since his biggest worry is A) enemy ranged attackers... and B) people who can dodge his shots well. Something like a 1d4+1/2 level since dex is still slightly stronger than strength.

Seems good. Caps at d6+5 I guess, just like RoE.

Quote from: LlumI think that Shocking Graps has a higher damage progression simply because it is melee. And the +3 bonus is in there to help wizards/sorcs (who have 0 BAB at level 1, and generally lower str) actually hit things, this makes the spell usable for them. A ranged spell with d6 progression just seems to invalidate all lower damage dealing spells.

Level 1 touch spells aren't usable for a wizard in my experience as they come down to too little too late. The only wizards that can make use of them safely are already high enough leveled to have access to better stuff anyways. Back when I used to play regularly we used to bump the touch spell power for wiz/sorc up a bit for the lower level stuff for just this reason. To make it a good high risk/high reward item vs the current high risk/low reward. As for the lower damage dealing spells they either have a major bonus (magic missile for example has no miss chance and a comparable damage output of 2-5 vs 1-6 with the bonus being balanced via a slower advancement in damage) or they are cantrips. There are two other spells with a d6 progression and both give extras beyond damage (the spell detailed just does damage). So IMO I think it's balanced. :)

What other spells have d6 progression?

What if Volcanic Bolt was 1d6 damage per two caster levels, as per Vampiric Touch or Searing Light?

I deem Scald balanced.

While you might not want to take the witch levels necessary to get accesss to it, Scorching Ray seems to fit very well with Eareg's ranged pyromancy style.

Quote from: SteerpikeWhat if Volcanic Bolt was 1d6 damage per two caster levels, as per Vampiric Touch or Searing Light?

I deem Scald balanced.

While you might not want to take the witch levels necessary to get access to it, Scorching Ray seems to fit very well with Eareg's ranged pyromancy style.

I would be ok with that, in fact let's do that. Also which version do you deem balanced? The 1d4+1/2 level dex one?

That's the one, if that's the one you want to keep.

Awesome, here's the final versions. I looked at the fluff though and decided to work it to make it more... cadaverous. Heh. Anyhow here's the final result

-----

Infernal Lance

Evocation [Fire]
Level: Fire 1, Sor/Wiz 1
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: 20ft.
Effect: Ray
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: None
Spell Resistance: Yes

With a gesture and an eldritch word a searing beam of boiling blood erupts from the casters extended finger. You must succeed on a ranged touch attack to strike a target. The subject takes 1d6 points of fire damage plus an additional 1d6 for every other caster level beyond 1st (maximum 5d6).

-----

Crippling Conflagration

Necromancy
Level: Fire 1, Sor/Wiz 1
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 standard action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Effect: Ray
Duration: 1 min./level
Saving Throw: None
Spell Resistance: Yes

You call forth a ray of black fire from your outstretched palm. The burst of eldritch energy withers anything it strikes, locking up joints and stiffening muscles. You must succeed on a ranged touch attack to strike the target. The subject takes a penalty to Dexterity equal to 1d4+1 per two caster levels (maximum 1d4+5). The subject's Dexterity score cannot drop below 1

Boiling blood = awesome!

While we're on the subject of witchcraft, can we assume that spells are available to purchase in the Hexwarren at the SRD price?

That's a safe assumption for spells level 3 and below.  For anything greater it may or may not be the case - like shopping for magic items or other special/expensive equipment, you have to seek out the right merchant, and some spells may be even harder to come by.  

EDIT: For example, Limited Wish/Wish are right out as are Plane Shift and Astral Projection, and I'm pretty hesitant to allow Teleportation.  On the other hand, dark/necromantic spells from the cleric spell list might be available as arcane spells in CE, such as Slay Living, Deathwatch, Deeper Darkness, Death Ward, Death Knell, Destruction, Implosion, Antilife Shell, Desecrate/Consecrate, Poison, and Insect Plague (just some examples), though decidedly NOT spells like Cure spells, Alignment-based spells, or spells excessivley concerned with holiness/unholiness, like Unhallow, Blasphemy, Bless, or Holy Aura.  I should draw up a detailed list of non-wizard spells available to witches, but in the meantime, just run any unorthodox spells by me first.

Some additional Witch Spells

Since I don't have lots of magic classes whose spell lists need to be balanced against one another, I don't feel that adding these spells as options for the witch makes it overpowered.

1: Eldritch Fang (Magic Fang), Entropic Shield, Deathwatch, Doom, Bane

2: Flame Blade, Death Knell, Desecrate, Consecrate, Hide from Grave-Spawn (Hide from Undead), Augury

3: Poison, Neutralize Poison, Greater Eldritch Fang, Speak with Dead, Meld into Stone, Searing Light, Daylight, Deeper Darkness

4: Death Ward, Rusting Grasp, Giant Vermin, Discern Lies

5: Insect Plague, Slay Living, Wall of Thorns, Disrupting Weapon

6: Antilife Shell, Harm, Blade Barrier

7: Creeping Doom, Destruction

8: Regenerate

9: Implosion, Storm of Vengeance

From the the always indispensable Book of Vile Darkness:

Boneblast
Necromancy
Level: Witch 2
Components: V, S
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Touch
Target: One creature that has a skeleton
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Fortitude half or Fortitude negates (see text)
Spell Resistance: Yes

The caster causes some bone within a touched creature to break or crack.  The caster cannot specify which bone.  Because the damage is general rather than specific, the target takes 1d3 points of Constitution damage. A Fortitude save reduces the Constitution damage by half, or negates it if the full damage would have been 1 point of Constitution damage.

Evil Eye
Enchantment
Level: Witch 3
Components: S
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)
Target: One creature
Duration: Instantaneous (see text)
Saving Throw:Will negates
Spell Resistance: Yes

The caster focuses malevolent wishes through her gaze and curses someone with bad luck. The subject takes a '"4 luck penalty on all attack rolls, saves, and checks. The spell ends at the next sunrise, when dismissed, when a remove curse is cast on the subject, or when the caster takes at least 1 point of damage from the subject.

Flesh Armor
Abjuration
Level: Witch 4
Components: V, S, F
Casting Time: 1 action
Range: Personal
Target: Caster
Duration: 10 minutes/level or until Discharged

Prior to casting flesh armor, the caster lays the skin from a creature of his size and lays it upon his own flesh, wearing it like clothing or armor.  Once the caster casts flesh armor, his skin develops resistance to blows, cuts, stabs, and slashes. The caster gains damage reduction 10/eldritch. Once the spell has prevented a total of 5 points of damage per caster level (maximum 50 points), it is discharged, and the skin slowly rots, shedding in patches like the skin of a moulting snake.

Focus: The entire freshly harvested skin of another creature of the caster's size.

Grim Revenge
Necromancy
Level: Witch 4
Components: V, S, Undead
Casting Time: 1 action
Range:Medium (100 ft. + 10
ft./level)
Target: One living humanoid
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Fortitude negates
Spell Resistance: Yes

The hand of the subject tears itself away from one of his arms, leaving a bloody stump.  This trauma deals 6d6 points of damage. Then the hand, animated and floating in the air, begins to attack the subject. The hand attacks as if it were a wight (see the Monster Manual) in terms of its statistics, special attacks, and special qualities, except that it is considered Tiny and gains a +4 bonus to AC and a +4 bonus on attack rolls. The hand can be turned or rebuked as a wight. If the hand is defeated, only a regenerate spell can restore the victim to normal.

Grim revenge is AWESOME. As an aside I found a picture that I think is pretty close to how I view Eareg.

(http://img837.imageshack.us/img837/994/1281596594860.jpg)

Awesome - that's about how I pictured him!

I had been imagining him a little bit like this (http://www.bromart.com/images/1Guns.jpg) as well, albeit with a rifle instead of six-shooters.  Pretty similar images.

Is it bad that I picture the jatayi as looking a bit like the skexis from the dark crystal?

[blockquote=Nomadic]Is it bad that I picture the jatayi as looking a bit like the skexis from the dark crystal? [/blockquote] Ha!  No its not bad to think of them that way, though as written they are a tad more humanoid/less monstrous, more like a very weatherbeaten angel with vulture wings and eyes.  I don't think I ever definitively stated whether or not they have beaks (a bit like how Tolkien never definitively states whether Balrogs have wings).  In my head they don't, which makes their carrion-eating somehow more disturbing to me.  The idea of a beaked creature eating rotting flesh makes me shrug, but the idea of a human mouth eating rotting flesh is somehow "wrong," and I usually go with wrong = good.

Ah yes, I think I pictured them without beaks the first time I read about them, but during the campaign I have envisioned them with beaks on occasion. And yes, human mouths does make it infinitely more disturbing...

Man Dark Crystal is a good movie.  There are rumors of a 2011 sequel floating about.

Does CE have mechanical constructs? If it does, what would I need to do to obtain the equivalent of a chopper (the motorcycle version, not a helicopter)? Eareg needs one... oh and sunglasses. Seriously, can you picture it? A ghoul rides up on a thumpin motorcycle, screeching to a halt. At his back a demonic rifle wreathed in flame, his features hidden by a downturned cowboy hat. He lifts up the hat and casually pulls off a pair of sunglasses to look out over the blood red wastes. The awesome is just too much. And yes for those of you who haven't figured it out by now, Eareg is my attempt to create a Cadaverous Earth cowboy.

There are some mechanical constructs but no cars/motorcycles (too twentieth century).  How about a clockwork horse (http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_4OYGjUrdllo/SaAzPQnXkjI/AAAAAAAARIk/lwUkjaDXRkY/s1600-h/DSC00521-2.jpg), or steam-driven beastie of some kind, breathing flame and black soot or crackling with eldritch electricity?

What you'd need to obtain one is about 1200 obeloi (for a basic mechanical horse, which I'd treat as a Heavy Warhorse with the Construct type) and the right mechanist to sell or build you one.  Kaius coud build you something but it'd take some time, though it'd cost less.

Hell yes clockwork horse.

Hi. mIRC problem. It says that I've been using the program for 42 days and it wants me to register.

It should work if you just wait for a a few seconds. Then you can press continue.

About grafts:
Would it be possible to get a spine/nerve graft that allowed some of my other grafts to act autonomously? E.g. grant me the ability to both take my two normal actions and do something with my tendril?
Also, even if they are kind of corny, are wing grafts possible in CE?
Do they ever graft mechanical parts onto people? It seems most grafts are purely biological with the exception of the weapon graft which doesn't involve any moving parts. I could imagine some kind of fell joint effort between a Macellerian grafter and a clockwork-maker from Skein or something like that.

[blockquote=Conundrum Crow]Would it be possible to get a spine/nerve graft that allowed some of my other grafts to act autonomously? E.g. grant me the ability to both take my two normal actions and do something with my tendril?[/blockquote]I don't think I'd let a graft do this but you could take the Multiattack Feat (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/monsterFeats.htm), which reduces penatlies for fighting with multiple natural weapons.  With a full attack action you can use things like your tendril and your knives, just at a significant penalty; with Multiattack you'd reduce that penalty a lot.  Also check out the Improved Natural Attack and Improved Natural Armor Feats on that page, which might be good for graftpunks.

[blockquote=ibid.]Also, even if they are kind of corny, are wing grafts possible in CE?[/blockquote]I'll give you Vermishank's answer: "First off, [Conundrum Crow], in theory its perfectly possible.  In theory, there is almost nothing which can't be done with [fleshcraft].  It's all just a question of wiring things up, a bit of flesh-moulding.  But flight's horribly hard because you're dealing with all sorts of variables that have to be exactly right... Wings have to be perfect or they won't do the trick... So the answer, I suppose, I'm saying, [Conundrum Crow], is that yes it can be done... But it isn't likely.  It's too danm hard.   There's no [fleshcrafter] who could promise a result.  Either you're going to have to find [Orlando Petrifax], get him to do it," hissed Vermishank in conlcusion, "or I wouldn't risk it" (Mieville 168).

Basically it's got a ridiculous cost associated with it and thus has a very high graft flesh DC.  If you find you have 40000 obeloi and seek out a real virtuoso of fleshcraft and do him extensive favours and get exactly the right wings for the graft, I'd totally allow it, and in fact that could make an awesome quest.

[blockquote=ibid.]Do they ever graft mechanical parts onto people? It seems most grafts are purely biological with the exception of the weapon graft which doesn't involve any moving parts. I could imagine some kind of fell joint effort between a Macellerian grafter and a clockwork-maker from Skein or something like that.[/blockquote]Yup!!  In fact, even grave-spawn can take mechanical grafts.  They're basically the same as organic grafts, but tend to be more expensive, and they tend to incorporate stuff like built-in firearms/flamethrowers/acid-sprayers for weaponry, pistons for inreased strength, etc.  Some are very cludgy and some with a Dexterity penalty.  There's a shop called Wind Up in Hexwarren with a specialist in clockwork grafts & goodies.

BTW, some of your other graft ideas are great and I will totally allow the bulk of them.  Mantid legs, for example, would totally work.

Some clockwork grafts:

Mechanical Eye: This eye simply replaces an eye that has been lost, providing no special bonuses or penalties.  It can be upgraded with special lenses, however.  500 obeloi.

Magnifying Lens - as Eyes of the Eagle.

Lens of Minute Seeing - as Goggles of Minute Seeing.

Lens of Darksight - as Goggles of the Night.

Lens of Hexsight: These lenses constantly Detect Magic.  2500 obeloi.

Clockwork Arm: This intricate clockwork prosthetic has to be meticulously rewound daily.  It provides a +2 Strength bonus to actions or attacks made with it.  4500 obeloi.

Weapon Hand: This weapon mount can only be attached to a Clockwork Arm.  A normal, masterwork, or magic melee weapon is grafted onto the hand so it is never unarmed. The weapon actually becomes a natural weapon, though its other properties are unchanged. The grafted creature receives a +1 bonus on all attack and damage rolls with the weapon, as long as it is proficient with the weapon. However, the hand with the graft  cannot be used for anything but combat, and it takes a '"2 penalty on all skill checks requiring the use of hands (if it only has one additional hand).  1000 obeloi + the cost of the weapon.

Weapon Mount: This weapon mount can only be attached to a Clockwork Arm.  A normal, masterwork, or magic melee weapon is grafted onto the hand so it is never unarmed. The weapon actually becomes a natural weapon, though its other properties are unchanged. The grafted creature receives a +1 bonus on all attack and damage rolls with the weapon, as long as it is proficient with the weapon.  3000 obeloi + the cost of the weapon.

Reloader: This special reloader can be fitted to a firearm graft on a Clockwork Arm, such as a Weapon and/or Weapon Mount graft.  It automatically reloads a mounted firearm, such that the wielder is treated has having the Rapid Reload feat with that firearm. 2500 obeloi.

Custom Eldritch Revolver-Mounted Clockwork Arm (Keen Masterwork Revolver): This glyph-etched masterpiece of a graft not only provides a custom +2 Dexterity bonus instead of a +2 Strength bonus, it comes with a Reloader and is warded such that the threat range of the Masterwork Revolver is 19-20/x3.  13000 obeloi.

Custom Blade-Arm (Masterwork Bastard Sword Arm): This speciality weapon-arm provides a +2 bonus to Strength and terminates in a massive blade treated as a Masterwork Bastard Sword - a 1d10, 19-20/x2, +1 to hit, natural weapon.  However, the hand with the graft  cannot be used for anything but combat, and it takes a '"2 penalty on all skill checks requiring the use of hands (if it only has one additional hand).  7800 obeloi.

Clockwork Legs: These clockwork legs allow a creature to move at +10 ft. their normal speed and provide a +5 competence bonus to Jump checks, not limited by their height. 5500 obeloi.

Clockwork Heart: This incredibly intricate clockwork heart provides a +2 enhancement bonus to Constitution. If it is not rewound daily (one minute to wind it) via the small knob implanted on the grafted creature's chest, the grafted creature instantly dies.  4500 obeloi.

Mechanical Lungs: These mechanical lungs allow the grafted creature to breathe underwater.  They also make the creature immune to inhaled poisons or toxic gases.  They do not need to be rewound.  18000 obeloi.

The Clockwork grafts look badass. However for the Clockwork Legs, doubling someones movement speed seems kinda... extremely good. Maybe something like 10 rounds/day or something. I mean, for 2750 obeloi, that's incredible.

Yeah, I was basing them off the boots of Striding and Sprining, a Wondrous Item worth 2500 obeloi, but I just realized I was using the old 3.0 version instead of the balanced 3.5 version (I still have the old 3.0 DMG).  Changed now, thanks for catching that!

Of course,one could argue whether Carver, with his ideas of transcendence through grafting, would use fleshless clockwork in his grafts. But well, if you are to transcend your form clockwork does make for a more extreme change.
Hmm, would it be possible to get some kind of crazy brass clockwork goggle with multiple moving arms bearing hexed lenses so that i could graft all the Lenses and use them interchangeably? (assuming I actually had the money to buy them all)
Have you looked at some of the prosthetics from Unhallowed Metropolis? The clockwork heart pretty much covers the Ticker but you might be able to garner some inspiration from the Oraculum. Also, the UM prosthetics just have a nasty vibe you could draw on (e.g. you have to painfully rewind the Ticker).
And about the spine graft, wouldn't it be possible for a certain cost to just copy the effects of the multi-attack feat with a graft? I can understand that you feel a free extra action might be a bit too much...

Yes to the goggle thingy - a lens selector would be pretty easy to create I think.  Maybe 200 obeloi on top of the other costs.

Because of the large number of feats available to IH characters I have to say no to the bonus feat from grafts thing, but might I suggest a 1/day Haste tattoo, or some kind of drug-gland that replicates the effects of Haste?  Haste allows you to make an extra attack with "any weapon you are holding," and your tentacle or other natural weapons would count.

The only other (really weird) solution I can think of is visitng a soul tinker/diabolist and getting a demon bound inside your own body.  The demon could possess a limb or other extremity, giving you an extra action and other bonuses with that limb - but there'd be *lots* of other complications, such as not having full control over that body-part, psychic corruption, having to appease the demon's twisted desires, etc etc, sort of like Eareg and Meteor's strange relationship but more visceral.  Could be fun, but that might be more than you were looking to get into.

I sadly don't have the UnMet book though I have dug up some old PDF add-ons for it... I always think I should order it, its very much up my street (heck one of my major academic literary interests is late ninteenth century Britain and the gothic revival!).  Until I scrape together enough obeloi of my own for a copy, though, please feel free to use it yourself for any grafts you fancy, and just run the mechanics past me.  A Oraculum is an eye that lets you see into the spirit world, right?  Could that maybe a graft that lets you Detect Grave-Spawn/Undead?

Just had an awesome idea. Clockwork graft that is basically a spring-loaded steel gauntlet connected to an arm socket attachment by a chain. Let's you make a ranged unarmed melee attack up to a set range (length of the chain). Has special sockets in the knuckles. For an additional cost the person may purchase special gems that fit in the sockets and deliver touch spells x/day upon contact. Can also fit spikes for minor additional damage (and a place to apply poison to). Retracting the fist is a full round action. When retracted it can be used as a normal hand though it is bulkier and stiffer and users take a check penalty to skills that require the use of your hands.

I just thought it would be awesome to face off against a hulking brute with a pair of these flailing around punches and causing chaos. Not to mention how fun it could be to play a PC with a rusty clanking contraption in place of a right hand, the inner workings glowing red and the knuckles a collection of eldritch gems bubbling with an inner light.

All fun and games until the big grunt grabs a hold of the chain, yanks it with force and kicks you in the face. Also, having both hands replaced with these would make retracting rather difficult, 'less you've got some extra limbs grafted on.

Quote from: GhostmanAll fun and games until the big grunt grabs a hold of the chain, yanks it with force and kicks you in the face. Also, having both hands replaced with these would make retracting rather difficult, 'less you've got some extra limbs grafted on.

No that would only increase the fun and games :P

Also they aren't manually retracting. That was the point of the clockwork, they wind themselves back up on the chain.

So a bit like the mechanical hand worn by the ogre from Hellboy II?
And yeah, demon possession is probably not up Carver's alley. Although a wing quest could be quite awesome, wouldn't mind doing one. Or a quest for some other unique graft for that matter.  
Do you need to buy the mechanical eye to use the lenses or would the goggles work just as well?

Goggles would work too.

I was just thinking about possible directions the campaign might go in future... if you guys were to leave Macellaria and surroudns for a visit to one of the other cities, which of them would you most like to see?  You could, of course, decide to go to any of them as you please, but I'm writing up adventure hooks and threads for later sections of the campaign and was just wondering if there were certain sections of CE anyone would like to adventure in.

I'd actually be most interested in Erebh! Lophius would also be cool.

Edit: Marainein also interests me.

[blockquote=The Meanest Guest]I'd actually be most interested in Erebh! Lophius would also be cool.

Edit: Marainein also interests me. [/blockquote]

Perhaps a tour of the extreme south is in order at some point.

Being a scavenger I'd be most interested in visiting the slaughter lands as opposed to any of the cities. For cities I'd be up for Lophius.

Gorethirst was kinda exiled from Lophius. Not to rain on anyones parade, but it might take some finagaling.

As for other places, the Devil Song(?) mountains, where-ever the Ur-Bone comes from is pretty interesting.

Hmm, Macelleria is kind of the capital of grafting, so I don't know why Mr. Carver would find it clever to leave.
Of course, you could always lure him away with stories of some master grafter.
Other than that, I have to think about it.

Have you ever thought of saint-grafting? If CE has any saints or something akin to that who left behind relics it can only be a matter of time before some religious leader grafts St. Baranauskas' right hand. Don't know if Mr. Carver would do it, it just crossed my mind...

Hmm there might be prophets and dead heroes with relics, and the Lamenters of the Weeping Lady have relics since they're into that sort of thing.  I do like the idea of grafted the embalmed fingertips of some legendary mummified magus or something similar... that's messed up, in a good way.

How functional would such grafts be, being dead flesh and all?

Good point Ghostman - decaying grafts wouldn't work to well.

Perhaps they could spread disease?

Quote from: SteerpikeGood point Ghostman - decaying grafts wouldn't work to well.

Mummified objects don't really decay.

Also true, though they probably also don't graft on to living flesh terribly well.

Quote from: SteerpikeAlso true, though they probably also don't graft on to living flesh terribly well.

Probably not.

They could be clockwork-augmented. Hexed saint-bones with clockwork muscle.

Nomadic, what is Eareg's current up-to-date spell list? I was thinking that we could exchange some 1st-level hexes before the journey to Shan-Szut.

Well my unique level 1 spells are:
- Blood Wind
- Crippling Conflagration
- Identify
- Infernal Lance
- Magic Missile
- Mount

My list:

* Adoration (Charm Person)
* Comprehend Languages
* Deceptive Visage (Disguise Self)
* Lighten the Flesh (Feather Fall)
* Blood Bait
* Harden the Skin (Mage Armor)
* Summon Black Steed (Mount)
* Ray of Enfeeblement
* Entropic Shield

I'd be most interested in Identify and Magic Missile. If we exchange spell for spell, it'll cost each of us 100 obeloi per exchange.

Mage Armor could be useful since it boosts my pitiful AC to a more decent amount for an hour though its use is limited and not worth 100 obeloi. The other stuff isn't really of much use. I think I'll just stick with what I have for now.

Just letting you guys know I wasn't able to make a character last night so I will not be at todays game. Also, after next tuesday I won't be able to make the 4:15 game time. I'd end up being 15-30 minutes late every session at a minimum.

I was actually going to ask about this.  How does the timeslot work for people after the summer?  It turns out it still works for me but it sounds like we should push it 20 miutes or so ahead and start at 4:40 EST/9:40 GMT.

EDIT: Just realised I've had the wrong GMT time posted up on the front page - apologies!

Also, a quick note on times etc - while I think I'll still have enough time to run the campaign once a week I may have less time for make-up sessions and solos.  that doesn't mean I won't have *any* time for them, just that the number of commitments I have is about to triple or so.  Also, sessions might have to be a bit shorter starting next week - we'll see.

I'm quite okay with tuesdays. Might even be the best day for me.

Still works for me, but only if it is no earlier than 4pm PST (7pm EST). Note that this is after September 20th. Before then the current time is still preferred though moving it back by a few minutes won't hurt me.

Llum and I were discussing new character options and Skinchanger came up as a possibility.

This might be treated in a couple of ways.  Skinchanging is very vague right now in CE but is most prevelant amongst the northern barbarian cultures.

Basically it would use the Alternate Form (http://www.d20srd.org/srd/specialAbilities.htm#alternateForm) mechanics.  The player would pick an animal such as a bear, hyena, wolverine, dire rat, or what-have-you, and be able to switch to that form.  Obviously there'd be a CR cap of some kind.

I was originally thinking that Skinchanger might be a trait but I'm starting to think that's not such a good idea.  What if it were a feat instead, albeit one available only to members of a culture where skinchanging is practiced?  The feat might even be taken multiple times or with mastery levels to allow for different forms.

The skinchanging process might leave the character shaken afterwards.

Thoughts/suggestions?  Is there a way to make this work and not be hideously unbalanced?  Should skinchanger just be a custom class of some variety.

EDIT: Also, suggestions for how to handle symbiotic vampire plate (powerful armour that embeds itself in the wearer's veins after flowing across their body) would be appreciated.

About the vampire plate, maybe it takes time to grow? You get it implanted, then over time it grows over your body. Increasing the DR and what not until it is fully in place.

Other things I mentioned are a minimum Con needed (16?) and Steerpike had mentioned it draining d4 hp a day or something similar.

Re: Skinchanger? Why not balance it like a druid? It seems to do the same thing.

also, after you left, Crow and I discussed if the pathfinder extra base classes are available (albeit with their powers reduced soemwhat to match IH's powers):

http://www.d20pfsrd.com/classes/base-classes

I figure that Witch and Inquisitor are out, but the others seem potentially applicable. Although, as we discussed, the Oracle will need to lose all of its access to cleric spells and instead it could run with the Warlock's flavor- the Oracles are vehicles for demons and their magic list is limited to spells related to cause disease, inflict wounds, etc.

No need really to address this though unless someone is interested in one of the classes. I don't see Wispy multiclassing into any of these anytime soon. It was just something we were discussing.

Interesting classes, for sure... I'm certain some could be adapted, though of course they'd need a lot of modification.

Here's an early version of what a Skinchanger feat might look like.  Thoughts?

Skinchanger [Lore]

Through secret arcane rituals passed down from generation to generation you have unlocked the esoteric secrets of skinchanging and can assume animalistic forms.

Base Mastery: 3

Prerequisite: First, the skinchanger must procure a totem - a pelt of the creature he wishes to turn into.  This cannot merely be the dead flesh of any animal but must be a fetish, the hide of an animal the skinchanger has personally slain and skinned.  The animal must be Medium sized.  Additional totems can be gathered as desired - the skinchanger need not take the feat multiple times to transform into them, however.

Benefit: The skinchanger can assume the form of a Medium sized animal whose totem he possesses.

This feat functions like the alternate form special ability, except as noted here. The effect lasts for 1 hour per character level, or until dismissed, and can be used once per day. Changing form (to animal or back) is a standard action and doesn't provoke an attack of opportunity.  After changing forms twice (i.e. from human to animal and back to human) the skinchanger is shaken for 1 hour.

Any gear worn or carried by the skinchanger melds into the new form and becomes nonfunctional. When the skinchanger reverts to his human form, any objects previously melded into the new form reappear in the same location on his body that they previously occupied and are once again functional. Any new items worn in the assumed form fall off and land at the skinchanger's feet.  The skinchanger's totem melds along with the skinchanger.

A skinchanger loses her ability to speak while in animal form because he is limited to the sounds that a normal, untrained animal can make.

Expanded Mastery 4: The skinchanger is no longer shaken after transforming.

Expanded Mastery 5: The skinchanger can use his abilities 2/day.

Expanded Mastery 6:The skinchanger can assume the form of a Small sized animal, provided he possesses the appropriate totem.

Expanded Mastery 7: The skinchanger can use his abilities 3/day

Expanded Mastery 8:The skinchanger can assume the form of a Large sized animal, provided he possesses the appropriate totem.

Expanded Mastery 9: The skinchanger can use his abilities 4/day.

Expanded Mastery 10: The skinchanger can use his abilities 5/day.

Alright so here are my first few comments.

Expanded mastery 5/7/9/10 are all basically the same thing. This makes them really boring, and uncool since a higher one basically invalidates a lower one if you get it.  I'd make it start at 2? maybe and have Expanded mastery 3 or 4 (or higher) be something like Assume form can be used a number of times equal to 1+wisdom bonus or something.

Also, perhaps an expanded mastery that reduces the form changing time?

Items being non-functional, I assume this is for stuff like weapons and shields? What about magic items? If I had a Periapt of Defense (+1 defense) would that still work? How about items that give enhancement bonus to stats? How would it affect grafts? Would they become useless? Or, if I had a tentacle graft, would I shapechange into an animal with a tentacle? Maybe an expanded mastery that allows the skinchanging of flesh/soul grafts?

What about changing into swarms?

Also, are there any CE-specific animals? Something other than lion/tiger/bear?

Mhmm, tentacle bear. And don't forget the humble wolf!

Do the skinchangers use this for war? Transportation? Scouting? Religious purposes?

Changing into swarms seems like something a spell could do (I even seem to remember Steerpike doing a scene with a witch who did that? Or were the bugs just controlled?); but I wouldn't say it fits with the style of a skinchanger.

A new form of the feat, with qusetions addressed - let me know what you guys think.

I've decided no on the swarm thing for skinchanging.

To answer Crow's question, skinchangers use their talents for hunting, defense, tribal warfare, and as part of religious ritual.

There are CE specific animals such as the xsur, shaik-toruch, dire maggot, and dune horror, and I'm planning more.  There are also weird versions of normal animals like mutant wolves and hyenas.

Skinchanger [Lore]

Through secret arcane rituals passed down from generation to generation you have unlocked the esoteric secrets of skinchanging and can assume animalistic forms.

Base Mastery: 3

Prerequisite: First, the skinchanger must procure a totem - a pelt of the creature he wishes to turn into. This cannot merely be the dead flesh of any animal but must be a fetish, the hide of an animal the skinchanger has personally slain and skinned. The animal, beast, or magical beast must be Medium sized. Additional totems can be gathered as desired - the skinchanger need not take the feat multiple times to transform into them, however.

Benefit: The skinchanger can assume the form of a Medium sized animal, beast, or magical beast whose totem he possesses.

This feat functions like the alternate form special ability, except as noted here. The effect lasts for 1 hour per character level, or until dismissed, and can be used twice per day. Changing form (to animal or back) is a standard action and doesn't provoke an attack of opportunity. After changing forms twice (i.e. from human to animal and back to human) the skinchanger is shaken for 1 hour.

Any gear worn or carried by the skinchanger (including wondrous items that provide a skill, ability, or save bonus) melds into the new form and becomes nonfunctional. Physical grafts (including clockwork grafts) are not carried over into the skinchanegr's new form, though spiritual symbionts still possess a skinchanger.  When the skinchanger reverts to his human form, any objects previously melded into the new form reappear in the same location on his body that they previously occupied and are once again functional, and any grafts possessed are still fully functional. Any new items worn in the assumed form fall off and land at the skinchanger's feet. The skinchanger's totem melds along with the skinchanger.

A skinchanger loses her ability to speak while in animal form because he is limited to the sounds that a normal, untrained animal can make.

Expanded Mastery 4: The skinchanger is no longer shaken after transforming.

Expanded Mastery 5: The skinchanger can transform into an abberation or vermin (of appropriate size), provided he possesses the correct totem.

Expanded Mastery 6:The skinchanger can assume the form of a Small or Large sized animal, provided he possesses the appropriate totem.

Expanded Mastery 7: The skinchanger can transform 5/day.

Expanded Mastery 8: Transforming is a free action.

Expanded Mastery 9: Wondrous items carried that provide a skill, ability, or save bonus (such as a Belt of Giant Strength) still provide their bonus to the skinchanger while he is transformed.

Expanded Mastery 10: The skinchanger can transform at will.

Looks better, a few more questions though.

How is DR going to work in Animal form? Do they have inherent DR (like a berzerker?) because losing your armor DR and all your items that give a defense bonus seems rough.

How do feats work in Animal form? Do combat expertise, power attack and stuff like cleave still work?

Changing to animal form and changing back, does that count as your two transformations for the day (without expanded mastery 7?) or does that mean you can turn into an animal twice?

First of all, an announcement.  Setpember 7th I will unfortunately not be able to run the usual game, as I won't have any internet access and am not as well-situated as I was during our first session.  The added time will give me a better chance to write up some CE animals/beasts and similar stuff anyway.  This is going to be a rare exception.  The game will resume on the 14th of September at the usual time though we may have to pick a new time soon given Nomadic's schedule.


As for Llum's queries:

a) Hadn't considered DR, I'll have to ponder that.  May be a flat 1d4?  Perhaps one of teh mastery levels should increase this?

b) All feats still function and are only rendered non-functional if they rely on a specific piece of equipment you don't possess while in animal form, so if you transform into a wolf, for example, your point blank shot feat still functions, you just can't wieled bows or firearms to make use of it.

c) Transform into an animal twice per day (reverting/dsimissing is "free").  I'll clarify that, and the DR.

Hmmm, ok do animal weapons count as finesse or power for the purpose of feats? Or both?

[blockquote=Llum]Hmmm, ok do animal weapons count as finesse or power for the purpose of feats? Or both? [/blockquote]

Both.  In the Bestiary there are monsters with feats from either type.

Alright my next will ether be 1. Human Witch and/or Man-At-Arms Skinchanger. Not sure on background for him yet.

or

2. Lilix Weaponmaster, male gholmaz (spider-killer, missing his three left arms[replaced with grafts maybe]) who uses Bastard Swords. He'd have 3 magical bastard swords (3 of a set of 7) and be looking for the next 4.

Quote from: LlumAlright my next will ether be 1. Human Witch and/or Man-At-Arms Skinchanger. Not sure on background for him yet.

or

2. Lilix Weaponmaster, male gholmaz (spider-killer, missing his three left arms[replaced with grafts maybe]) who uses Bastard Swords. He'd have 3 magical bastard swords (3 of a set of 7) and be looking for the next 4.

That second one sounds freaking awesome and I totally support the concept. First one could be cool too though not sure without more of a description. Though in the end of course the choice is up to you. Will be nice to have you back in the game regardless.

I'd be interested in seeing the Lilix.

Gholmaz: something you came up with yourself or an already introduced concept? Are they exiles or a lower caste or some kind of limb-sacrificing order? Or did he simply lose the arms in battle...
And damn he will deal some nasty amounts of damage with 4 bastard swords... He will probably also take some hefty penalties, but still.
Looking forward to seeing Gorethirst's successor! Hope you have him ready for next week.
Steerpike, are we running LD's heist session this week even if the ordinary game is cancelled or are you gone all week?

Quote from: Conundrum CrowGholmaz: something you came up with yourself or an already introduced concept? Are they exiles or a lower caste or some kind of limb-sacrificing order? Or did he simply lose the arms in battle...
And damn he will deal some nasty amounts of damage with 4 bastard swords... He will probably also take some hefty penalties, but still.
Looking forward to seeing Gorethirst's successor! Hope you have him ready for next week.
Steerpike, are we running LD's heist session this week even if the ordinary game is cancelled or are you gone all week?

It's gholmuz actually, I miss-typed it in my post. It's an already introduced concept, seen it while I was reading the Dolmen write-up. They're criminals who get their arms chopped off to mark them, they're essentially the lowest caste a lilix can be in Dolmen. Barred from upper tiers and stuff.

Internet is back!  Sorry again I couldn't make it the other day; only just now got things up and running.

Llum has the gholmuz thing exactly right.  Under the Gynocracy's theocratic law offenses such as heresy, treason, sexual deviancy (doesn't include homosexuality amongst men, but would include lilix-human copulation and lesbianism), spider-killing, sacrilege, blasphemy, and similar transgressions are punished by dismemberment (the more limbs removed, the greater the crime), and the offender becomes untouchable, not to be admitted into temples or the upper tiers of the city.

BTW, lilix often keep spiders of various sizes as pets, and rarely use them as mounts (difficult but not impossible).  Also, katanas in d&d = masterwork bastard swords, so if you wanted katana-like swords instead of the standard European style, that could work...

What kind of crime would warrant losing 3 arms? 2 arms? 4 arms? As for the katana thing, would it be more realistic? I know skein has a semi-asian flavour (a skein 2h sword is like a nagitana). So, no real background on the set of magic swords really.

Also, what is your reasoning in starting Skinchanging at Mastery 3? This cuts out on a couple more mastery things you can put into it.

The mastery 3 thing is basically to impose something of a level requirement, as I see skinchanging as a fairly powerful ability, especially for someone like a witch whose mental scores likely outmatch their physical.  Allowing skinchanging at low levels could lead to some very overpowered low-level characters, I think.

Lilix usually favor curved blades and also (often) small pistols (derringer-like).

As to the whole crimes thing, a couple of notes:

a) If a lilix lost 3 or more of its extra limbs, does everyone agree it would be fair to get rid of their LA?

b) As for how severe the crimes would have to be, the lilix might have committed several smaller crimes.  Here's a rough list of crimes/punishments for lilix that result in the gholmuz designation (the lilix have other crimes, which are generally resolved through fines):

Spider-Murder: 1 limb
Theft of religious object/funds: 1 limb
Murder of a freedwoman (i.e. a human, female slave who's been freed): 1 limb
Copulation with a human: 1 limb
Blasphemy/Profanity within a temple of Tiers 1-5: 1 limb
Adultery: 1 limb

Murder of a lilix male without an official writ of assassination: 2 limbs
Desecration or Vandalism of holy webs/temples of Tiers 1-5: 2 limbs
Blasphemy/Profanity within a temple of Tiers 6-7: 2 limbs
Same-sex copulation (female-female only; male-male is permissible): 2 limbs
Unlicensed or Blasphemous Witchcraft: 2 limbs

Heresy (i.e. espousing non-orthodox religious opinions): 3 limbs
Desecration or Vandalism of holy webs/temples of Tiers 6-7: 3 limbs
Treason: 3 limbs
Blasphemy/Profanity within the Cathedral of Tier 8: 3 limbs
Rape of a lilix female: 3 limbs

Insurrection (i.e. armed resistance to the Gynocracy): 4 limbs
Murder of a lilix female without an official writ of assassination: 4 limbs
Desecration or Vandalism of holy webs/architecture of the Cathedral of Tier 8: 4 limbs

Rape or murder of a clergywoman: Death; entombment as a gholmuz, without blessing
Vandalizing the Tapestry of Verlum: Death; entombment as a gholmuz, without blessing

Quote from: SteerpikeThe mastery 3 thing is basically to impose something of a level requirement, as I see skinchanging as a fairly powerful ability, especially for someone like a witch whose mental scores likely outmatch their physical.  Allowing skinchanging at low levels could lead to some very overpowered low-level characters, I think.

Hmmm, why not just add prerequisites like Glyph Bullet and Craft Graft? Nether of those can be taken at level 1 (iirc). Seems safer than losing out on two mastery levels. There's a trait in the Player's Companion (Prodigy) that lets you choose a single mastery feat (a feat, not a kind a feat. So Cleave rather than Power for example. It lets you treat your mastery rating as 1 higher than it is for that specific feat. So a Witch 1 with prodigy still has the mastery 3 to take Skinchanger at level 1).

Here's a new version of the feat:

Skinchanger [Lore]

Through secret arcane rituals passed down from generation to generation you have unlocked the esoteric secrets of skinchanging and can assume animalistic forms.

Base Mastery: 2

Prerequisites: Beast Lore, Knowledge (nature) 6 ranks.

To acquire this feat, first the skinchanger must procure a totem - a pelt of the creature he wishes to turn into. This cannot merely be the dead flesh of any animal but must be a fetish, the hide of an animal the skinchanger has personally slain and skinned. The animal, beast, or magical beast must be Medium sized. Additional totems can be gathered as desired - the skinchanger need not take the feat multiple times to transform into them, however.

Benefit: Once per day the skinchanger can assume the form of a Medium sized animal, beast, or magical beast whose totem he possesses.

This feat functions like the alternate form special ability, except as noted here. The effect lasts for 1 hour per character level, or until dismissed. Changing form (to animal or back) is a standard action and doesn't provoke an attack of opportunity. After changing forms twice (i.e. from humanoid to animal and back to human) the skinchanger is shaken for 1 hour.  While in an alternate form the skinchanger has a DR of 1d2/magic.

Any gear worn or carried by the skinchanger (including wondrous items that provide a skill, ability, or save bonus) melds into the new form and becomes nonfunctional. Physical grafts (including clockwork grafts) are not carried over into the skinchanger's new form, though spiritual symbionts still possess a skinchanger. When the skinchanger reverts to his humanoid form, any objects previously melded into the new form reappear in the same location on his body that they previously occupied and are once again functional, and any grafts possessed are still fully functional. Any new items worn in the assumed form fall off and land at the skinchanger's feet. The skinchanger's totem melds along with the skinchanger.

A skinchanger loses his ability to speak while in animal form because he is limited to the sounds that a normal, untrained animal can make.  He still understands any languages he knows in his humanoid form.

Expanded Mastery 3: The skinchanger is no longer shaken after transforming.  The skinchanger can also now transform 2/day.

Expanded Mastery 4: The skinchanger's DR increases by one even die type (i.e. 1d2 to 1d4) while in his alternate form.

Expanded Mastery 5: The skinchanger can transform into an abberation or vermin (of appropriate size), provided he possesses the correct totem.  The skinchanger can also now transform 3/day.

Expanded Mastery 6:The skinchanger can assume the form of a Small or Large sized animal, provided he possesses the appropriate totem.

Expanded Mastery 7: The skinchanger's DR increases by one even die type (i.e. 1d2 to 1d4 or 1d4 to 1d6) while in his alternate form.

Expanded Mastery 8: Transforming is a free action.  The Skinchanger can also now transform 5/day.

Expanded Mastery 9: Wondrous items carried that provide a skill, ability, or save bonus (such as a Belt of Giant Strength) still provide their bonus to the skinchanger while he is transformed.

Expanded Mastery 10: The skinchanger can transform at will.

Alright, if I don't take the Lilix gholmuz route, I've decided some more on my other choice.

It would be a skinchanger character. Ghul would be really cool, since you keep your type, so they would change into undead versions of animals (I believe that's how it works). Very cool, and very MBotF. However I still think our party needs more non-humans/non-ghul.

I don't really want LA, so my options are Zerda, Leechkin, Hagman. I just played a Leechkin so that's out. That leaves Zerda and Hagman. From a lore-wise point, is there any predilection towards ether race? Since they only get a Background trait I can't take the Prodigy trait (from the IH Players Companion), is there some lore-justification for some kind of custom skinchanger oriented background trait? Something that would let me treat my Skinchanger Mastery Level as 1 higher than it is? (Allowing me to reach mastery 10 as a Man-At-Arms).

Just some thoughts.

I'd allow you to swap out your normal background trait for the Prodigy (Skinchanger) trait.  For a zerda, this would mean you were a white-furred, albino "sorcerer," one marked from birth as touched by the spirit-world (often having some witch levels, but not necessarily).  For a zerda skin-changer Small sized animals would be standard instead of Medium ones, with Mastery 6 giving access to Tiny and Medium instead of Small and Large.  Possible totems might include lizards, birds of prey, serpents, and (at higher levels) giant scarab beetles or Dune Horrors.

For the hagmen it would mean you are a Flamen (Priest) of Nemam, the Aspect of Metamorphosis, an androgyne facet of the Aeon-Worm concerned with transformations and liminal states.  Likely alternate forms might include crocodiles, leopards, and other swamp/jungle creatures.

If you have ideas of your own for CE-themed animals that's cool too...

EDIT: If you do lose 3 limbs as a lilix gholmuz I think it's relatively balanced to lose the LA.  I don't think a single extra off-hand attack and a couple of stat bonuses/penalties are equivalent to an entire level, especially if compared to what a mantid or jatayi get (flight, natural weapons, etc).

Rereading your original idea,  realized that the bastard swords you had in mind aren't necessarily of lilix design...

Yeah, I think you can safely remove the LA.

Alright, since I'm not fond of small characters looks like I'll be going the Hagman route. Even though a white-furred zerda sounds badass.

As for animals, I'm guessing I can pick anything out of the d20srd within reason? What about the IH Bestiary? Other 3.5 books? Where can I look for ideas?

What about spirit grafts, is there a list of them kicking around? Also, would I be able to purchase a bound water elemental? Ether bound by some kind of spirit or hex or something?

If all this is too much trouble, just tell me to settle down and finish a character and I can go with the Gholmuz.

Water elementals aren't available for purchase but if you take a witch level you can get one as a familiar.  Alternatively you could get a tattoo of the create water spell (treat as level 0 spell, 1st level caster is all that's needed to create enough water - only 250 obeloi).

I had some spirit grafts in mind that did things like fear auras, unnerving gaze, etc, but don't have them written up - its been very hectic recently for me and I'm a bit exhausted!  I'll work on those, though, when I get the chance.

Anything in reason is good for animals - monster manuals, bestiary, whatever you desire, though if its a non-terrestrial animal (like an owlbear or whatever), renaming it and tweaking its cosmetics would be preferable, or you can just show me its stats (or just a description) and I'll make up a suitably CEish description and name for it.

Hagmen hunters also might be skinchangers, so I could see taking the trait if you went that route, as well, as opposed to the priest thing.

Don't feel you can't make a human or ghul, if you'd rather do that.

I really like the lilix character idea as well...

I can't really multi-class as a Hagman, I'd get XP penalty unless I went Hunter/x and the way I'm leaning is Witch/Man-At-arms. The extra feats from Man-At-Arms are just too usefull compared to class abilities IMO. And having a 3rd caster in the party? Even with skinchanging, might be weird. Might try it though.

No worries about getting the written up right away.

If you'd rather have a charm or fetish that "moisturizes" you that'd also be available for 250 obeloi, same as the tattoo, though it'd take up a pendant/amulet item slot.  What I'm picturing is a kind of hagman voodoo medicine man/shamanistic warrior who can change his/her shape and shares his/her soul with a fell spirit...

Some spiritual symbionts such that a soul-tinker might provide, and rules for them:

Spiritual symbionts are immaterial manifestations of (generally extradimensional) creatures, i.e. spirits, which are bound to a mortal's soul (or, as some prefer to say, consciousness).  Some spirits are bound through contract, sharing in a mutually beneficial arrangement with the mortal they possess; others are bound against their will, impelled to perform all manner of arcane tricks.  Soul-tinkers are a type of witch skilled in the implantation of spiritual symbionts, much as a fleshcrafter can graft alien flesh.

For every spiritual symbiont beyond the first that a character is bonded with they suffer a -1 penalty to Wisdom.  Additionally, they must make a Madness save (DC 13 + the number of total symbionts they are bonded with).  This save uses the modified Wisdom score.  If the character fails their mind fractures from the strain and they act as if confused, making a Madness save every round to regain their sanity.  If they fail by more than 10, the spirits within them gain control over their body.

Fear Aura: The host creature can radiate a 5-foot-radius fear aura as a standard action once per day. Affected creatures must succeed on a Terror save (DC 10 + character level)or be affected as though by a fear  spell (caster level equal to character level). As with all Terror saves, the save DC is Charisma-based. Whenever other characters are near the host creature they break out in gooseflesh.  Cost: 7000 obeloi

Unnerving Gaze: Three times per day the host creature`s eyes can flash at a opponent and their visage can twist to resemble that of a dead loved one or sworn enemy.   Range 30 ft., Madness save (DC 10 + character level) negates. Those who fail their saves take a -2 penalty on attack rolls for 1d3 rounds.  This symbiont changes the host creature's eye colour to a dreadful black.  Cost: 2000 obeloi.

Wounding Touch: This symbiont allows the host creature to wound with a mere touch and warps one of their hands, turning the veins black and growing long, discoloured talons that regrow if pared down (this does not grant a claw attack).  Once per day the hos creature can make a touch attack.  A creature touched may make a Horror save for half damage (DC 10 + character level).  Cost: 1d8+1 per character level (maximum +5) 750 obeloi, 2d8+1 per character level (maximum +5) 3500 obeloi, 3d8+1 per character level (maximum +5) 8000 obeloi, 4d8+1 per character level (maximum +5) 14000 obeloi.

Mind-Ravisher: The host creature can use detect thoughts  at will. Furthermore, he can send a telepathic message to anyone whose surface thoughts he is reading (allowing two-way communication). Once per day, the host creature can implant a suggestion (as the spell, Will DC 10 + character level negates) along with his telepathic message. Cost: 28000 obeloi.

Hell-Tongue: This symbiont taints the host creature's tongue a ghastly black colour and leaves them with a vile taste in their mouth.  Three times per day they can utter a curse as the Bestow Curse spell as if cast by a witch of their character level.  They can also automatically speak Hellspeak.  Cost: 8000 obeloi.

Hell-Tongue would be nasty and pretty dang strong. Would hate to be on the receiving end of that.

Not sure if I ever posted this...

MULTIATTACK [MONSTER]

A monster with this feat is particularly skilled at combining its varied natural attacks'"such as claws, bite, tentacle slams, and so forth'"into one dangerous whole.

Base Mastery: 1

Prerequisite: Three or more natural attacks.

Benefit: The creature's secondary attacks with natural weapons take only a '"2 penalty.

Normal: Without this feat, the creature's secondary attacks with natural weapons take a '"5 penalty.

Expanded Mastery: 4. The monster may use one of its natural attacks to attempt an aid another action as part of a full
attack action. The monster gains the benefits of the aid another action until the end of its current action. For example, a troll attacks with two claws and a bite. It could use its bite to make an aid another attack, and then strike with its claws while gaining the benefits (if any) of its aid another attempt. A monster can't grant an ally the benefits of aid another in this manner, and it can make only one aid another attempt per full attack action.

Expanded Mastery: 6. The monster's secondary attacks with natural weapons now take no penalty.

Expanded Mastery: 8. The monster combines its natural attacks, tearing into a foe with its claws and bite at the same time to cause a more grievous injury. If the monster strikes a foe with two or more natural attacks as part of a full attack action, it immediately inflicts slam damage plus its Strength bonus as bonus damage as it rends and tears into its opponent. A single target can't suffer this damage more than once during a creature's action.

I like the whole mechanic behind the spirit-grafts. Costing wisdom etc... None of the current ones really appeal to me but they sounds cool.

As for the latest incarnation of Skinchanger, looks great. However there is one that bugs me, and it bugs me for official feats that do this too, is that Expanded Mastery 4 and 7 are essentially mutually exclusive. Once you get 7 4 becomes a wasted feat.

I dunno if you want to change it to increases DR by 1d2/magic each time, leave it as is or do something else.

Yeah I was modeling that effect off things like Weapon Focus.  I agree they're a bit off.  I think increasing it by 1d2 each mastery level is too much, though, because eventually you'd end u wit a monster with full plate equivalent DR...

I found this (http://www.iron-league.com/displaycontent.cfm?iCatId=3&iConID=167) online, which might be a radical alternative version of skinchanging.  If you like this class version better, feel free to ignore the posted feat and go with the class instead.  There are a couple of places I might tweak the class as well, but they wouldn't be major.

I had meant Expanded mastery 4 and 7 increase by 1d2 each. So it would be 1d2-->2d2-->3d2 instead of 1d2-->1d4-->1d6 (possibly skipping out on the Expanded mastery 4 altogether)

Check out my fix above.

EDIT: Llum, though a hagman character could be very cool, if you'd rather play a human, don't feel that the group's racial makeup requires more token monsters.  Mr. Carver barely counts as human anyway, and a human who can change into a horrific floating manta-ray thing (xsur) or something similar is definitely "alien" enough to be distinct.

Btw, a xsur has stats similar to the Cloaker from the SRD but without the shadow shift abilities and with a different Moan ability that deals 3d6 sonic nonlethal damage, Reflex DC 15 for half, instead of the usual Moan choices...

Lilix Name
[spoiler=Stats]
Lilix Gholmuz Man-At-Arms 5
STR: 20 [+5]
DEX: 16 [+3]
CON: 12 [+1]
INT: 12 [+1]
WIS: 10 [+0]
CHA: 10 [+0]

HP
53 Hit Points
53 Reserve Points


Languages
Shambles
Spiderchatter
Chattlechatter


Feat Mastery
All 3

Traits:
Noble Born[Well Educated]

Feats:
Improved Initiative
Combat Expertise Mastery 1
Power Attack Mastery 1
Weapon Focus Mastery 1
Armor Mastery Mastery 1
Multi Weapon Fighting Mastery 1
Wild Card Feat

Skills:
Perception
-Listen(Wis)
-Search(Int)
-Sense Motive(Wis)
-Spot(Wis)
Robbery
Disable Device (Int)
-Forgery (Int)
-Open Lock (Dex)
-Sleight of Hand (Dex)
Academia
-Appraise (Int)
-Concentration (Con)
-Decipher Script(Int)
-Heal (Wis)
-Knowledge (Int)
-Speak Language
Bluff(Cha)
Climb(Str)
Gather Information(Cha)
Intimidate(Cha)

Abilities:
Darkvision 30 ft
+2 Bluff
Arachnoid: Lilix have six arms (and two legs). They have one primary hand and five off hands for combat purposes. They can, of course, take Multiweapon Fighting to ameliorate the normal penalty for fighting with additional weapons.
Liquid Diet: Lilix can only ingest liquid food.

Combat:
Masterwork Bastard Sword(1h): +11(+5[BAB] + 5[Str] + 1[Weapon Focus] + 1[Masterwork])(1d10 +3[Str] - 19-20 x2)
Masterwork Bastard Sword(2h): +11(+5[BAB] + 5[Str] + 1[Weapon Focus] + 1[Masterwork])(1d10 +7[Str] - 19-20 x2)
Defense: 18 (5[BDB] + 3[Dex])
Armor: Masterwork Studded Leather: 1d3+1/Magic - Max Dex Bonus: +5 - Penalty: 0
Initiative: +7
Saves: +5
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Inventory]
Money:
11000 Obeloi

Items:


General Supplies:

Total Weight:
[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Magic Items]
First Magic Bastard Sword

Second Magic Bastard Sword

[/spoiler]

[spoiler=Fluff]
Lost 3 arms for treason. Left Dolmen, went to find set of 6 bastard swords, has found 2 so far.
[/spoiler]

Character looks very nice.  More fragile than Gorethirst in the hp department but some opportunity for crazy go nuts damage...

So far lilix names have had lots of s's, z's, c's, r's, v's, and x's, but you could always go for something more like a nickname.  Gholmuz generally lose their last (family) names, it should be noted, as their families usually disown them.

Good if brief session today.  I ruled that Eareg and Wispy were out scouting ahead.  Llum's new character was introduced.

A few items of business:

1) We need to reschedule the game, since not everyone can make the current timeslot.  I'm available Mondays and Wednesdays all day and Tuesdays and Thursdays after 1 PM PST (4PM EST, 9PM GMT).  Fridays aren't very good but in a pinch I'm available Friday evenings after about 7PM PST (10 PM EST).  Post the times you're available and we'll go from there.

2) Carver and Wispy still need to finish their heist.  There's not much left so this can be wrapped up pretty quickly.  Because the two have split we could even run them separately.

3) I switched computers so I'm missing some of the logs - basically those from the session before the one today, when you cremated Gorethirst and set out on your journey.  Does anyone have a copy of those logs?  If so, please send me a PM - otherwise it may be awhile before the logs can be updated.

Thanks everyone!  I really hope to keep the game going and miss as few sessions as possible.

I'm available Monday-Saturday from 1-5pm (1pm until midnight on Thursday/Friday). That time changes when school starts in a few weeks (Tues/Thurs I'm unavailable until about 4pm) As to the logs I have them but since we use the #celtricia channel I'm going to have to search them out and separate them from the steel isle logs first.

I can join the game on most days, as long as it won't continue past 7 PM EST.

*

Mondays and Tuesdays are fine for me.
* Wednesdays are iffy but manageable.
* Thursdays are out of the question.
* Fridays are ok.
* Weekends should be fine usually.
[/list]

Hi. I could probably do the Wispy quest as soon as tonight, although later rather than earlier (after 7PM EST.)

As for days:

Monday after 7PM EST or later
Tuesday (oddly the best day, even with starting at the current time EST, although unavailable until October)
Wed (not a good day)
Thursday (any time, but things generally come up on Thursdays)
Friday (late)
Sat (I usually do things, but If I am around... ok.)
Sunday (no)

Mondays are bad
Tuesdays are good since my time zone pretty much requires me to play the game late and I don't have to meet at my university on wednesdays.
This also makes wednesdays okay, although I won't be able to make it every time then since I usually do stuff that day.
Thursdays could work.
Fridays there is a good chance I'm doing something so not the best day really, the same goes for saturday although I might be able to squeeze in a session on occasion.
Sundays would have to be reasonably early in the day (GMT+1) since I have to get up around 6-7 AM monday morning.

Steerpike: Tuesdays after 1 PM PST
Nomadic: Tuesdays 1-5PM work for me (3pm-midnight after the 20th).
Ghostman: Tuesdays are fine for me.
Light Dragon: Tuesday (oddly the best day, even with starting at the current time EST, although unavailable until October)
Conundrum Crow: Tuesdays are good since my time zone pretty much requires me to play the game late and I don't have to meet at my university on Wednesdays.

Haven't heard from Llum yet but unless his schedule has changed he should be able to make Tuesdays (correct me if I'm wrong llum). This means that the current time still works the best (1pm every Tuesday) though after the 20th this will have to become 3pm every Tuesday for me to keep playing.

Wednesdays I can't do anything.

Thursdays I have the SIG at 8:30 EST and get back from school at like 4:30 EST. Tuesdays I also don't get back home till 4:30 EST. So I won't be around until then, but it still works for me.

Mondays could work I guess, I have most of the day free.

Friday-Sunday aren't going to happen for me. I tend to do stuff on the weekends so I don't commit to anything.

Nomadic, the catch is timezone related.  After the 20th you're not available after 4 PM (though I see you changed it to 3...), which is 7PM EST - and Ghostman can't play after 7PM EST.

However, if you're available at 3 PM (that's PST, right?) we could squeeze out a session or so a week.

So, I propose that the new time should be 2:40 PST (5:45 EST,10:45 GMT) to whenever people can play to.  The extra 20 minutes at the beginning can be used for rules questions out of character discussion, etc.

Some days there can be make-up sessions or subplots run before the regular game.

Crow (and Light Dragon if you're available), we can finish off the heist when convenient, but are either of you around this coming Tuesday at all, like round 3-4 EST/8-9 GMT??  I'd be on tonight but I have to (re)read Frankenstein...

Re: Re-read Frankenstein... that's about 121 pages :D it's perhaps one of the few pieces of literature where it is quicker to read the book than to see the movie (the other being Lord of the Flies). j/k

Good luck.
-
Regarding this coming tuesday, regrettably that is not possible unless a commitment cancels; my next two weeks are booked solid with commitments. I'll try to be on the IRC page though when I am free; so, don't plan for me to be around next tuesday, but there is a small chance I could have 2 hours free in the afternoon.

Quote from: SteerpikeNomadic, the catch is timezone related.  After the 20th you're not available after 4 PM (though I see you changed it to 3...), which is 7PM EST - and Ghostman can't play after 7PM EST.

However, if you're available at 3 PM (that's PST, right?) we could squeeze out a session or so a week.

So, I propose that the new time should be 2:40 PST (5:45 EST,10:45 GMT) to whenever people can play to.  The extra 20 minutes at the beginning can be used for rules questions out of character discussion, etc.

Some days there can be make-up sessions or subplots run before the regular game.

Crow (and Light Dragon if you're available), we can finish off the heist when convenient, but are either of you around this coming Tuesday at all, like round 3-4 EST/8-9 GMT??  I'd be on tonight but I have to (re)read Frankenstein...

Oops that was a typo. Should be 4pm not 3pm

Crow, just how bad are your Monday evenings?

Hmm, I'm home around 18 PM (GMT+1) and I have to go to bed at around 11 PM - 12 AM (GMT+1) so that I can be up by 6.20 AM the next day. This leaves me with 5-6 hours, which I of course also have to spend on family, food and homework and we usually eat around 8 PM so that splits the time into two periods. I could probably play between 9 PM and 12 AM if that works, but as you can hear it's not the best day for me.

EDIT: I'm good for finishing Carver's part of the heist next tuesday!

Good news on the Tuesday thing and Carver.

Perhaps Mondays at 4:00 PM EST (9:00 PM GMT, 10:00 GMT+1, 1:00 PST) for 1-2 hours might work???  If you had to miss sessions, Crow, we could run occasional make-up solo sessions the next day.  I don't see any other major spots available: Tuesdays and Thursdays are out for time zone reasons, and Wednesdays, Fridays, and weekends are problematic for other reasons.

Well, if it has got to be monday then I guess I better make room for it. But yes, then it can only be 1-2 hours...
Hmm, we can't come up with a biweekly solution?

Maybe a semi-regular short game the next day, such that there are almost two groups of players?

Hmm, perhaps, although it takes a bit to take two evenings out of your schedule for one event (even if it is a good one). Not to add that you might come under some pressure.

The only way a multiple session game would really work would be to just after crow leaves split it off into a new session and do a two session game all in one long span. The other days just don't look like they will work unless you want to be hosting tons of 1-2 person games all over the week.

On further consideration I think doing two sessions would end up giving an unfair experience advantage to those who can make both.  However, if we stick to a Monday session I'll sometimes run a make-up session on Tuesdays for Crow/Light Dragon/others if they miss the main session.  Does that sound fair and reasonable?  I wish there was a simpler, easier way to do it, but I can't find a day and time that works for everyone, and I'd rather come up with an imperfect solution than cancel the game or cut players from the roster.

Quote from: SteerpikeOn further consideration I think doing two sessions would end up giving an unfair experience advantage to those who can make both.  However, if we stick to a Monday session I'll sometimes run a make-up session on Tuesdays for Crow/Light Dragon/others if they miss the main session.  Does that sound fair and reasonable?  I wish there was a simpler, easier way to do it, but I can't find a day and time that works for everyone, and I'd rather come up with an imperfect solution than cancel the game or cut players from the roster.

Probably the best way to do it.

I don't understand what Nomadic was saying re: his conflicts?

Nomadic is free from 1PM-4PM EST on tuesday
Ghostman is free from 1PM-7PM EST on tuesday

What is the problem?

You could start at 2PM EST and play till 5PM est potentially? Nomadic would miss the last hour and I would probably miss the first hour, but other than that, it would seem to accommodate everyone?

Still, I'm okay with being a makeup or whenever you can fit me in person- it's just that I don't understand what the issue is Re; Nomadic's times-- I am confused.

I think that's 1PM-4PM PST --> 4PM-7PM EST.

That being said, I'm still in class at 2PM EST. However if that's the date that works best for everyone, that's cool.

Quote from: Light DragonI don't understand what Nomadic was saying re: his conflicts?

Nomadic is free from 1PM-4PM EST on tuesday
Ghostman is free from 1PM-7PM EST on tuesday

What is the problem?

You could start at 2PM EST and play till 5PM est potentially? Nomadic would miss the last hour and I would probably miss the first hour, but other than that, it would seem to accommodate everyone?

Still, I'm okay with being a makeup or whenever you can fit me in person- it's just that I don't understand what the issue is Re; Nomadic's times-- I am confused.

Ok here's the clarification. I currently am not in school but am working. I go to work at about 5pm PST but I need an hour for dinner and getting ready and such (hate to finish a game and go rushing out the door). So I am available until 4pm PST (7pm EST) on Tuesdays. This changes though next week when school starts. Basically I will be missing next week since there's no way I can cram a game into the tiny span of time between the end of school and the start of work. After that though my work wraps up and I just have school. I get out of school at 3:15pm and have a roughly 20-30 minute drive home plus some time to put stuff away and wind down and so forth which means the earliest rounded time I could make would be 4pm PST. So in short:

- I will be missing next week's game
- After next week I will be available Monday-Saturday through a large range of times
- Tuesday/Thursday however I have school and so will be unavailable until 4pm PST (7pm EST)

To clarify for everyone, since Nomadic is missing this week, we'll continue at our previous play time this Tuesday at around 1:30 PM PST/4:30 PM EST/9:30 PM GMT (Crow, perhaps we can do a make-up session afterwards).

Starting the week after (on the the 27th of September) the new play time will be Mondays at 1 PM PST/4 PM EST/9 PM GMT, and I will try my best to be generally available on Tuesdays (the day after the regular session) for make-up sessions.

If you're up for it steerpike could we do a makeup session the Tuesday after next around 4pm or so since I'm missing the next game?

Quote from: Nomadic

Quote from: Light DragonI don't understand what Nomadic was saying re: his conflicts?

Nomadic is free from 1PM-4PM EST on tuesday
Ghostman is free from 1PM-7PM EST on tuesday

What is the problem?

You could start at 2PM EST and play till 5PM est potentially? Nomadic would miss the last hour and I would probably miss the first hour, but other than that, it would seem to accommodate everyone?

Still, I'm okay with being a makeup or whenever you can fit me in person- it's just that I don't understand what the issue is Re; Nomadic's times-- I am confused.

Ok here's the clarification. I currently am not in school but am working. I go to work at about 5pm PST but I need an hour for dinner and getting ready and such (hate to finish a game and go rushing out the door). So I am available until 4pm PST (7pm EST) on Tuesdays. This changes though next week when school starts. Basically I will be missing next week since there's no way I can cram a game into the tiny span of time between the end of school and the start of work. After that though my work wraps up and I just have school. I get out of school at 3:15pm and have a roughly 20-30 minute drive home plus some time to put stuff away and wind down and so forth which means the earliest rounded time I could make would be 4pm PST. So in short:

- I will be missing next week's game
- After next week I will be available Monday-Saturday through a large range of times
- Tuesday/Thursday however I have school and so will be unavailable until 4pm PST (7pm EST)

Ah, okay. I understand. Thank you for the clarification. Now I understand why the eventual move to mondays. :)
Sorry to have had to make you explain. You were very patient with me.

[blockquote=Nomadic]If you're up for it steerpike could we do a makeup session the Tuesday after next around 4pm or so since I'm missing the next game?[/blockquote]

Sounds good to me!

I'm not going to be here tomorrow. I can't play tuesdays at all anymore due to some new school scheduling.

Oh dear.  Well, too late now to reschedule the game.  It may be a small contingent tomorrow.  However, that might give Crow more of an opportunity to finish his heist.

Heads up: I may be a bit late to the game tomorrow [Monday].

I'm withdrawing from the CE game. Sorry for the trouble, but I had a great time while I was playing.

It was a lot of fun interacting with your characters Llum. Far as I'm concerned, you'd be welcome back any time should you wish to return.

Sad to hear it, but we had a great time!

I'm sad to hear that Llum... Hope you'll have time to rejoin us again sometime in the future.

Heads up that I may be a wee bit late to tomorrow's game on account of (Canadian) Thanksgiving plans.

Hmm, plans have gotten more involved and I don't think I'm going to be able to make it tomorrow.  Really sorry guys!!

Ah, too bad...
We still have to finish the heist by the way, when you have the time for it. :)
 

I'm sad to miss out on Shan-Szut now that we've finally arrived, but I probably can't make it to the game tomorrow. Because of a small vacation one of my other roleplaying groups saw fit to schedule something for that day. But Mr. Carver will probably be back for next week!  

I have some good news and some bad news.

The bad news is that Nomadic is dropping out of the campaign, at least for now.  I can totally understand his reasons; heck the guy just took over site administration, I'm sure his plate is super full.

The sliver lining is that without Llum or Nomadic it may be easier to find a play time, so we might want to consider moving the campaign to a more convenient time for people like Crow and Ghostman.

The alternative is that we put the campaign on temporary hiatus and then, when schedules are a bit less hectic, polish up our black onyx gems worth 25 gp per hit die and revivify the thing.

If the remaining players want, we can combine these two solutions and finish up the Shan-Szut raid before calling a hiatus.  I'm confident you guys can probably clean out the eyrie in 1-2 sessions, especially with the help of Zaszicar.

If Blood and Bewitchment does go on hiatus I may well run some one-shots of Tempter or something else.  I'm having an itch to do something Lovecraftian.

We played an ENORMOUS amount of CE over the summer, probably in the area of 5-8 hours a week for some of us.  It's easy to get burnt out on a constant diet of viscera, madness, cannibalism, glyph-graven undead hookers, and all the other revolting creations that make CE what it is.  Perhaps a break wouldn't be such a bad thing, and a palette cleanser of something else might help.  Though if I'm GMing it'd probably still be fairly disturbing.

Let me know what you guys think.  Perhaps we should put it to a vote?

EDIT: By the way, today's session was canceled as not enough people could show up, so the party is still at the foot of Shan-Szut, having just outrun the tempestas mali that was zapping them and reanimating the dead.

I'm in favour of finishing the raid, just to tie up that loose end, and then taking a little break. Having an occasional one-shot of Tempter or something else in the meantime could be refreshing.

Whatever goes on is good for me because I realize that my scheduling issues cause problems (but later [after work] is usually better for me...which is incongruous with Crow's schedule, sadly.). As always, I'll be occasional due to my scheduling limitations- but I always enjoy popping in; and we still need to finish the heist adventure.

Sad to see Nomadic leave the game. It was interesting to have him drop in and send Wispy to hell.

@LD: (didn't Llum send you to Hell?)
I've really enjoyed playing the CE campaign, so I'd like to see it continue. I could live with a minor hiatus, but I have no need for it :)

I may come back later if I get more free time. Right now I'm trying to balance a full credit schedule at college with managing the cbg and fighting crime on the side.

What did we decide on, are we playing tonight?

Yep!
 
Well, hopefully...

Sorry if I was unclear... I had a ton of work this last week.

New trait I thought of for Zerda only.  I'm treating it as a background trait but it does have a physical component.

Magus [Background]

Distinguished by your white fur, you were apprenticed to the tribe's magus and trained in the mysticism of the zerda.

Mechanics: You use Wisdom as your casting ability instead of Intelligence: bonus spells and the maximum level of spells you can cast are based off you Wisdom rather than your Intelligence.  You also cast spells with the Fire descriptor at +1 caster level.

Thanks again for a good session Steerpike.

Some leveling up questions:

1. I used the d20 SRD to tripleclass to a Rogue. How do I calculate my feat mastery progressions?

(Yes I realize the foolishness of the tripleclass on a LA character. Although I think on the next level Wispy might take a level in Gunslinger). The main drawback of this is that he is still at Base Attack Bonus +1. :o. Any suggestions from others on gear or something to compensate for this issue are welcomed. Still, I'm willing to be somewhat madcap/incompetent as long as I don't die-it suits the character, so even if I have difficulty hitting things, that will probably be okay in the long run. My weapons are at a +5 to hit currently, and the sneak attack option was another attempt to make sure that he's useful in battle to some degree; so I'm generally fine. I can live with a trade off on being less efficient in battle as long as Wispy can still do random little things that might be useful. (Like greasing up the Demons mid-air).

So, with respect to not dying, which is much more important; if I can buy/do something that increases HP or AC, that would also be welcomed. He's currently standing at 30 HP for level 5.)

2. How much damage does the new Produce Flame infusion cause?

3. Any stats that I need to know w/r/t the Hound, or will you be taking care of that as well as running the creature?  Wispy will be considering a name for the creature.

4. What was the cash reward for completing the Heist quest? Or will we RP that?

1) Rogue is actually not available - it's replaced by the Thief and the Executioner (the Thief being more the sneaky, charismatic type, the Executioner the assassin type).  Having Rogue as an available class would be a bit redundant.

2) The Produce Flame spell your demoniac passenger endows you with deals 1d6 + your level of fire damage, up to 1d6+5 total.

3) The stray you picked up has the stats of a Hellhound but deals acid damage instead of fire damage from its bite/breath weapon, is immune to acid instead of fire, and lacks the fire or lawful subtypes.  It can also make a tongue-lash attack for 1d2+1 damage plus 1d6 acid damage at a range of 10 ft.  It does not speak, but understands Hellspeak.

4) 1500 for the heist and 750 for a complete map - however, your map wasn't thorough, so they'll hold out for 500 obeloi, for a total reward of 2000.  You and Carver can fight it out as to how to split it.

I'm curious. What has everyone else been spending their money on? Kaius has basically dumped everything into his clockwork armour and sundries. Has Tarim made any progress on getting the ingredients for his god stew?

Grafts when possible. Had to buy new eyes too.

I seem to recall those eye funds were a party expense!

Out of curiosity, what times and days do you guys play this? I'm interested in seeing if I can join.

Usually we played sort of mid-afternoon eastern time - which for me (PST) was early afternoon and Ghostman/Cataclysmic Crow (GMTish) was around 9-10 at night.  Time zones have caused some major headaches for scheduling, but so far we've managed to work it out.

Okay, I said tomorrow, but then I got excited and knocked this up in a fit of enthusiasm. He has no background yet, as I thought if Steerpike's planning to introduce him and CoyoteCamouflage's Zerda at the same time, it would be good for us to confer and come up with at least somewhat interlinked backgrounds.

I may well have done some things wrong, and will change them when they are pointed out. For example, I wasn't sure how much ammo cost for guns, so I bought it at 1 obeloi per cartridge as a rough thing... Anyway, here's my guy.

I haven't adjusted the pistol down a size category - he can just fire it two-handed if he has to!

[ic=Character Sheet]Vetrajhicogojha "Vetter" Shi
Zerda
Weapon Master 5

Abilities
Strength: 8 [-1]
Dexterity: 19 [+4]
Constitution: 15 [+2]
Intelligence: 8 [-1]
Wisdom: 15 [+2]
Charisma: 15 [+2]

Attack (claws): +9/+4/+9/+4 (+6/+1 BAB, +1 size bonus, +4 Dex bonus, Two-Weapon Fighting), primary gets 1d6 damage (grafted), secondary gets 1d3
Attack (bite): +10 (+5 BAB, +1 size bonus, +4 Dex bonus), 1d4 damage
Attack (pistol): +10 (+5 BAB, +1 size bonus, +4 Dex bonus), 2d6 damage
Options: Sneak attack 1d6

HP: 54
Defence: 19 (10 + 5 BDB + 4 Dex bonus + 1 size bonus)
Armour: Chain mail; 1d4/magic, max Dex +5, -4 check penalty

Initiative: +4
BAB: +5, +6/+1 with favoured weapon
BDB: +5

Traits: Desert Born (camel's tenacity)
Abilities: Low-Light Vision, Heat Endurance, Favoured Weapon (claw), Weapon Pool, Weapon Styles: Expert Strike & Critical Strike, Favoured Defence

Mastery: Finesse 4, Defence 3, Other 0
Feats: Weapon Finesse 3, Two-Weapon Fighting 1
Skills: Athletics +6 (rank 8, -2 Str), Bluff +7 (rank 5, +2 Cha), Hide +8 (+4 size bonus, +4 Dex), Listen +6 (+4 racial bonus, +2 Wis), Move Silently +6 (+2 racial bonus, +4 Dex), Speak Language +1 (rank 3, -2 Int) Spot +4 (+2 racial bonus, +2 Wis), Survival +4 (+2 racial bonus, +2 Wis), Tumble +6 (rank 2, +4 Dex), Use Magic Device +4 (rank 2, +2 Cha)
Languages: Zerda, Shambles, Flicker

Grafts: Clawed Hand (1d6)

Equipment:
Chain mail, wheellock duelling pistol, 15 cartridges, backpack, bedroll, winter blanket, candle, flint and steel, belt pouch, waterskin
27 obeloi

Appearance:
The Zerda known as Vetter cuts a dashing figure in a blackened chain byrnie and wine-red bandana. He is of average size and build for his race, but his fur is interrupted by a spattering of wicked scars, and the tip of his left ear is missing. Despite these blemishes, he is still handsome enough, in a hard sort of way, to those whose tastes lie in the direction of foxfolk.
He has a Mantid-made pistol tucked in his belt, and although he carries no obvious melee weapon, his right hand has been replaced with a graft from some long-fingered reptilian creature with vivid, midnight blue scales. The claws on this hand are significantly more vicious-looking than the not-unimpressive natural ones on its opposite number.[/ic]

EDIT: Made my mail non-masterwork in order to afford to swap the blunderbuss pistol for a wheellock. Possibly not quite worth it, but it gives me a cooler mental image :)

Awesome!  He'll tear unarmored or lightly armoured opponents to tatters.

EDIT: It should be very easy to tie you and Coyote's characters together - Coyote's character was rescued from a burning caravan by zerda, so you would probably have met him there.

Also, Coyote's character is a mute (he lost the ability to speak following an injury), so he communicates through writing and through the sign-language called Flicker.  I'll decree that you can be fluent in Flicker for free.

Cool, added Flicker to my languages. Good thing I decided to actually invest in enough Speak Language to talk proper Shambles, as I did contemplate not bothering and communicating through Coyote's character, lol. Now it looks like I'll be the interpreter :)

Makes a nice kind of sense that as someone who fights so deftly with his hands, Vetter can also talk with them...

Quote from: SteerpikeUsually we played sort of mid-afternoon eastern time - which for me (PST) was early afternoon and Ghostman/Cataclysmic Crow (GMTish) was around 9-10 at night.  Time zones have caused some major headaches for scheduling, but so far we've managed to work it out.

Okay, so that's around 4-5 o'clock for me (EST). I should be able to do that so long as it isn't on thursdays (I'd be cutting it close - I get out of class at 5).

All this Cadaverous Earth made me feel like writing Kaius again. Alas, I only have the idea for the start of the story. I'll write the whole thing soon, I'm sure. Maybe I should work on my own setting one of these days.



[ic]
Two years ago,

via Crepuscle

'It don't smell so good' said Borth as Kaius lifted a corner of the tarp. 'No' Kaius paused, narrowing his eyes at the charred and broken body that lay before him. 'It does not.' he finished. Borth wore a black leather jerkin and a wide brimmed floppy hat. A well-worn but serviceable hatchet hung from his belt. A thick-set and balding man with a few too many scars, Borth was not the most pleasant thing to look at. But he was competent, and that was something Kaius could respect.

Borth wrinkled his nose and jumped out of the small river-going sloop. He landed with a splash in the shallow waters at the edge of the river. Wading onto shore he tied the boat to a stunted tree with a thick length of hempen rope. Kaius glanced out over the landscape as he donned his armour; an endless sea of tawny grasses met his gaze. A solitary bird of prey circled in the distance.  He shouldered the tarp-wrapped body and hopped over the low rail. Borth scampered back to the boat, quickly grabbing the shovels and jugs of oil.  He hurried to catch up to Kaius's purposeful stride. They walked silently for a long while, deeper and deeper onto the Veldt. Eventually, Borth broke the silence, as he often did.

'So we sailed halfway down the Radula just to get rid of that? Why not just dump it any old place?' he asked, nodding towards the corpse on Kaius's shoulder. 'Keep walking, Borth.' Kaius responded. They kept walking. Some time later Kaius raised his visor. 'As even you may have suspected, Borth, Mr. Parsevande wasn't always a corpse.' The ghost of a smirk passed over his face as he began the tale. [/ic]

Cool!  I want to read more.

BTW, Lamia made a cameo in Wispy and Carver's heist, now (mostly) available for perusal in the logs, at the end of Part One on the third page.

1. Ah, thank you for the correction w/r/t rogue. Given the options, I nearly switched to Gunfighter, but the Deadeye Shot feats didn't quite seem too efficient unless I was planning on advancing several levels in the class, so I took another witch level instead- and the single spell that it brings- Hideous Laughter.

2. Thank you for the other information.

4. Speaking of the map, Wispy also made a copy that he intends to sell to other would-be-thieves or to a merchant at some point. He expects he might be able to get 50-250 through various resales, but would gladly hold out for more.

5. Feat Mastery for the witch table? Where is it?

6. How much is the crystal decanter Wispy stole? If possible, he'd sell that quick.

3. W/r/t Mr. Carver and I splitting the 2000.
Crow- how about this: 1250 for wispy, 750 for carver- given that the issue of the map was entirely Wispy's idea. Wispy would push for this. However, carver has a good argument that he helped wispy survive in the house. Wispy would reference Carver getting stuck in the chimney and not helping him get out of hell. Carver would probably note that he recovered the target item. If, in the interest of being a fair player, splitting it 1000 x 1000 is better, I'll also agree to that- but at minimum, wispy is pushing for the above split.

7. Others Any advice on HP or Defense increasing things for Wispy to invest in?

Hopefully this is okay for the updated sheet. Regrettably there may be some errors.

[ic]Cacophonous-Whisper-of-the-Desert "Wispy" "That Damn Bird" (Light Dragon)
Jatayi Bard 1/Witch 3 (LA 1 )

Background

Coming from Skein, the Clockwork City, this Jatayi Witch lived far from the main brood; the Jatayi Fablers come from Macellaria while Cacaphonous Whisper-of-the-Desert, "Wispy", was raised by a half-mad, drug-addled sapfiend hen who was exiled from the tribe because she trafficked with demons and did unspeakable things each moon-lit night.

Wispy arrived near Macellaria with ruffled feathers, a contract out on him and a holy sword he 'borrowed' from his last adventuring ally, who he thinks he left to die lost and alone in the desert.

Wispy is always ready to run, to dance, to disappear when trouble gets too dire and he is prepared to endure great privations in order to survive.

STR: 10 [+0]
DEX: 17 [+3] [Level 4 bonus point invested here]
CON: 15 [+2]
INT: 16 [+3]
WIS: 8 [-1]
CHA: 16 [+3]

HP: 30 (19+11) (arcanist [1d4+2]x3 + bard [1d6] + [and CON [5x2]+1 for level 4 bonus point)
   0 current damage (mainline)
BAB +1 (Bard +0, Witch (3) +1)
BDB: +2 (unsure if it's 2 from the 3 witch levels and 1 bard level; or if it's 4 as the base chart implies).

Defense/AC= 15= 10+2(BDB)+3(Dex)

Ref = 9 (witch 1, bard 2, base 3, mod 3)
Fort = 6 (witch 1, base 3, mod 2)
Will = 7 (witch 3, base 3, mod -1)
Initiative = +7 (feat, dex)

Speed = 30 feet / 30 feet fly (normal)
Vision = Low Light x 4 (Also see magnetic fields)

Feat Mastery
(Not calculated for witch yet)
Projectile: 0
Defense: 0
Lore: 2
Finesse: 0
Social: 3
Tactics: 1
Other: 0

Traits:
Desert Born (+2 save v. fire; +4 survival in desert)
---Dunestalker (+2 Balance/Tumble in desert)
Eidetic Memory (+1 all Know Checks ; +2 Spot v. Disguise)
Necrophagic (Eat Decomposing Meat)

Feats:
Diehard (Auto-Stabilize at -1)
Endurance
Exotic Weapon: Jayati Bolt
Imp. Initiative
Quick Draw (draw hidden as move action)

Abilities:
Bardic Music 1x/day
--Countersong (Others may use my perform check as a save. 10 rounds.)
--Fascinate (30 feet of bard. 10 rounds)

Produce Flame 3x/day (1d6+5 damage)
(From demonic infusion by Sprezychish's Seneschal).

Languages:
Shambles/Magpie
Jatayi
Hellspeak
Hextongue
Jangle (Merchants)

Skills:
 
BARD 6+INT(3) x 4 =36
+Arcanist levels 2+3=5 x 3 levels=15

TOTAL (RANKS+MODIFIER)
12 (9+3) Bluff
4 (2+2) Concentrate
9 (6+3) Diplomacy
6 (3+3) Escape Artist
8 (5+3) Gather Info
8 (5+3) Hide
5 Knowledges (Bardic Knowledge Level 1+3 INT+ 1 Eidetic)
+3 additional to Know (Demonology)
10 (7+3) Listen
5 (2+3) Move Silent
5 (2+3) Perform
3 (0+3) Search
7 (4+3) Sleight of hand
0 (1-1) Spot
3 (3+0) Swim
6 (3+3) Tumble

Attack:
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi

Defense:
Mstwk. Studded Leather DR=1d3/magic ; max. dex +5 ; weight 20 lbs ;25+150 obeloi

Known Spells:
BARD- (x=prepared)
LEVEL 0
x 1="Cacaphonous Tinnitus" Lullaby (-5 spot/listen; -2 will v. sleep)
x 2-"Fulgent (Blinding) Ambridescence" Dancing Lights
3- "Cacaphonous Rant" Ghost Sound
4- "Tittering Sending" Message

WITCH-
LEVEL 0 (4)
"Magic Dowsing" Detect Magic
"Contagion Dowsing" Detect Poison
"Discombobulation" Daze
"Randomized Magical Trick" Prestidigitation

LEVEL 1 (2)
"Honeyslick" Grease
"Morning Fog" Obscuring Mist

LEVEL 2 (1)
'Compelling Wisecrack' Hideous Laughter

Tattoos
None.

Items:
 
Mstwk. Studded Leather DR=1d3/magic ; max. dex +5 ; weight 20 lbs ;25+150 obeloi
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6+3 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi
Mstwk. Jatayi Bolt (1) ATTACK +5 (1+dex+mstwk) ; DAMAGE 1d6+3 (exotic) ; 2 lbs ; 150+300=450 obeloi

Jayati Crossbow Bolts (35)

Jayati Playing Sticks (like pick up sticks mixed with cards)
Traditional Necklace Wards against demons (probably don't work the way he hopes they do.)
Grimoire: -15 obeloi 3 lbs,

Backpack 2 gp 2 lb.
Bedroll 1 sp 5 lb.
Bottle, wine, glass 2 gp '"
Case, map or scroll 1 gp ½ lb.
6 Flask (empty) 3 cp 8 lb.
Flint and steel 1 gp '"
Grappling hook 1 gp 4 lb.
Hammer 5 sp 2 lb.
5 Oil (1-pint flask) 1 sp 5 lb.
Paper (sheet) 4 sp '"
Parchment (sheet) 2 sp '"
Piton 1 sp ½ lb.
Pouch (holding several of mother's feathers (blackened from when the demon blasted her into a thousand bits)
Rope, silk (50 ft.) 10 gp 5 lb.
Sack (empty) 1 sp ½ lb.1
Sealing wax 1 gp 1 lb.
Sewing needle 5 sp '"
Signal whistle 8 sp '"
Signet ring 5 gp '"
Vial, ink or potion 1 gp 1/10 lb.
Vest (holds alchemist fire/etc.)
Waterskin 1 gp 4 lb.
Chalk, 10 pieces 1 cp '"

(3) Alchemist's fire (flask) 20 gp 1 lb.
(1) Holy water (flask) 25 gp 1 lb.
(1) Smokestick 20 gp ½ lb.
(1) "Walkersbane" Tanglefoot bag 50 gp 4 lb.
(1) "Big Thunder" Thunderstone 30 gp 1 lb.
(2) "Firestarter" Tindertwig 1 gp '"

Total Weight: ~48 lbs.

Magic Items

Pearl of Power (level 1 spells) (1K)

Bracers of Armor +1 (1K)

"Holy" Longsword (Mstwk.) I don't intend to use it. He stole this from someone and it makes no sense for him to use a sword anyway. (it should eventually be +1 v gravespawn but I don't have the obeloi to afford that.) (365 obeloi)

Sorrow mask on back of head.
Crystal Decanter.

possibly some oils that would be of interest, Wispy: an oil that seems to have transmutative qualities, and another that seems to artifically enhance the charisma of any its applide to.

ViceBite (Familiar)

Fiendish Animal
Str: ??
Dex: ??
Con: ??
Int: ??
Wis: ??
Cha: ??

HP: ??
BAB: +??
BDB: +??
Initiative: +??
Speed: ??ft. (2 squares), fly ??ft. (average)

Attack: ?? Talons +4 melee (1d4'"2) [Just a guesstimate]
Special Qualities: Low-light vision

Skills:
??

Feats:
??

Notes
ViceBite is a Clockwork ID Bird, a demonic creature that Wispy's mother summoned to keep watch over the family. When she died, the creature decided to bond with Wispy. Every now and then it forgets its mission and eats some of Wispy's feathers. This has led to a strained relationship between the two.

Hammer-key teeth. Clocks in his eyes, with dials.

Wealth Left 3 Obeloi. (Poor Bird).

4) 1500 for the heist and 750 for a complete map - however, your map wasn't thorough, so they'll hold out for 500 obeloi, for a total reward of 2000. You and Carver can fight it out as to how to split it.

Other Info
His last 'partner' was 'late''¦ got a jatayi pregnant at the Nubile Greyface (ghoul) Inn, and she told him she forgot to use magick protection, so he deserted her at the Juice-Addled Octogenarian.
NAME: Klevah 'Clever' (lie told to Carver is that her name is: Chickadee)


Making a map of the area: 750 gp to the people, will make a copy and sell to others.

XP: 1500 (major quest completed) 2750 (in Hell) 360 (Slaughterlands v. Fetches) 200XP (2nd loot session); 500XP (1st loot session)
Started w/ XP 6000
Need ___ to level up.
Have: 11,310

Hellhound
   Name him.
   Features
   vomits up a great spew of greenish bile.
   
3) The stray you picked up has the stats of a Hellhound but deals acid damage instead of fire damage from its bite/breath weapon, is immune to acid instead of fire, and lacks the fire or lawful subtypes. It can also make a tongue-lash attack for 1d2+1 damage plus 1d6 acid damage at a range of 10 ft. It does not speak, but understands Hellspeak.

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