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[OOC] No Kings or Heroes
feeddannow
Registered User regular
Registered User regular
Hello and welcome to my players and lurkers. This will be the thread we use for out-of-character chatter and table-talk that isn't directly related to current in-game action. This is where rules disputes will be settled. This is where brainstorming about the setting will happen. This is where you can make any and all Monty Python related jokes without fear of being summarily dumped into a pit of scorpions.
Most of you have played with me before in some context - or know others who have - so I won't go through any lengthy introduction about myself. I'm Dan. I'm the DM.
Everything is early stages at the moment, but this is what I have so far:
Rules:
Setting:
The world of "No Kings or Heroes" is post-apocalyptic fantasy. It's a mixture of a lot of different inspirations. Dark Sun, Mad Max, Chrono-trigger, and my own diseased imagination amongst others. It's original-enough. We will beg borrow and steal when necessary or appropriate. I expect that the players will inadvertently (or vertently?) build the world as we go along. I have some ideas to kick things off though.
Some basics about the world:
The world is very old.
It has undergone several apocalypses. This is just the most recent.
The most recent was brought about by magic replacing technology and basically sucking the world dry.
The apocalypse is refered to as "The Lie", in reference to the ruling wizard-kings lying to their subjects about the side-effects of such rampant magic use.
It happened not-too-long ago. Elves and Dwarves and other long-lived races might have even been small children during that time.
There are small-to-medium pockets of "civilization" that dot the landscape... made up of the remnants of the old civilizations and other make-shift settlements.
Outside of those pockets, its a savage brutal world dotted with wild danger and adventure.
Magic still has a stigma attached to it - but it's also recognized as being fundamentally useful.
Locations of Note (So far)
The Great Eastern Wastes
The City of Los Jingles
Pinktown
The New Verdant Empire
Character Creation:
Most of you have played with me before in some context - or know others who have - so I won't go through any lengthy introduction about myself. I'm Dan. I'm the DM.
Everything is early stages at the moment, but this is what I have so far:
Rules:
1) Dan is always right. (Even when I'm wrong.)
2) Using just the basics from DnD 5th edition. (Players handbook is all you'll need.)
3) Rolling will be done via https://dicelog.com/dice (Should you have a preference for a different online dice roller, feel free – just be consistent).
4) No PvP - There will be so many bad guys and adversaries ahead of you, you'll not want to have to worry about your team mates too.
5) Advancement is based on completing tasks and stories - and to what extent you participated in that. PbP is a medium of gaming that requires players to actively post in order to stay alive.
6) I reserve the right to append these rules as I see fit to satisfy my cruel and fickle whims.
2) Using just the basics from DnD 5th edition. (Players handbook is all you'll need.)
3) Rolling will be done via https://dicelog.com/dice (Should you have a preference for a different online dice roller, feel free – just be consistent).
4) No PvP - There will be so many bad guys and adversaries ahead of you, you'll not want to have to worry about your team mates too.
5) Advancement is based on completing tasks and stories - and to what extent you participated in that. PbP is a medium of gaming that requires players to actively post in order to stay alive.
6) I reserve the right to append these rules as I see fit to satisfy my cruel and fickle whims.
Setting:
The world of "No Kings or Heroes" is post-apocalyptic fantasy. It's a mixture of a lot of different inspirations. Dark Sun, Mad Max, Chrono-trigger, and my own diseased imagination amongst others. It's original-enough. We will beg borrow and steal when necessary or appropriate. I expect that the players will inadvertently (or vertently?) build the world as we go along. I have some ideas to kick things off though.
Some basics about the world:
The world is very old.
It has undergone several apocalypses. This is just the most recent.
The most recent was brought about by magic replacing technology and basically sucking the world dry.
The apocalypse is refered to as "The Lie", in reference to the ruling wizard-kings lying to their subjects about the side-effects of such rampant magic use.
It happened not-too-long ago. Elves and Dwarves and other long-lived races might have even been small children during that time.
There are small-to-medium pockets of "civilization" that dot the landscape... made up of the remnants of the old civilizations and other make-shift settlements.
Outside of those pockets, its a savage brutal world dotted with wild danger and adventure.
Magic still has a stigma attached to it - but it's also recognized as being fundamentally useful.
Locations of Note (So far)
The Great Eastern Wastes
A vast expanse of desert that stretches forever eastwards to the faraway mountains of Marcianus. Very few things call the Eastern Wastes "home", at least not for very long. It's a barren, harsh place - the only thing that breaks the monotony of endless dunes are the stretches of wild-colored glass, remnants of some titanic struggles of an era long past. The only folk that make a habit of visiting the Wastes are tribes of wandering halflings - nomads and wildmen - that trade the glass they find to merchants that they don't drive away. The half-folk are fiercely independent and widely regarded as unforgiving foes - nothing is more terrifying than looking over a sand-dune to see a gaggle of halflings atop their prey-foot lizards riding straight at you with malice in their beady black eyes.
Whatever lies beyond the Great Wasteland is a mystery to most – certainly no sane persons could survive the trek across its vast expanses.
Whatever lies beyond the Great Wasteland is a mystery to most – certainly no sane persons could survive the trek across its vast expanses.
The City of Los Jingles
The eastermost settlement before one ends up in the Wastes, Los Jingles has a long history. Before the fall of the Wizard Kings' rule, Los Jingles had another name... though few remember it. It was a city of great culture and commerce. Peoples of every sentient race were allowed within the sanctity of its walls, and a harmonious peace was held by the rule of the great Wizard King Baraccus. Those days of enlightenment have past, however - and those that remember Baraccus' name don't dare to whisper it within the city walls. In the chaos and confusion following the disappearance of their leader and the fall of the other Wizards, old animosities reared their heads. Fear, hate, and old grudges began to tear the city apart from within - until a very unlikely leader stepped forward. The city is now ruled by a very unusual Gnoll, who sensed the city's need of strong leadership and rallied the citizens against a common foe.... the humans. It was slow at first, but soon their were rallies and then riots - aimed to take the humans out of the city's power structure entirely. Los Jingles is - for the setting - a relatively safe place to visit - unless you're human (or worse, a half-breed). In fact, anyone with provable human blood is not allowed past the inner walls of the city.
Under the rulership of Donny Jingles, Los Jingles has seen a great number of changes. The entirety of the walled section of the city has been rebuilt in an effor to make everything more “classy.” The effort, refered to by some as “The great classification” saw that every place of business was required to advertise their shop with signs of gold or magical illuminations. Houses of worship have given way to large gambling dens. Civic gardens replaced with sideshows and carnivals. Every wall adorned with slogans praising the progress made by the people of Los Jingles or adverts for the newest tavern show. Even the city guard wear uniforms that parrot noble attire. It’s a city of hustle and bustle – finding a quiet corner here is no easy task.
At the center of it all is the old Mage’s tower – now known as “Jingles Tower” – the old ivory of the structure has been gilded in gold and enchanted with magic mouths that spout out inspiring messages from the city’s proud leader.
Other places of note in the city include:
Jingles Gamehouse – the largest of the gambling dens in the city, a warehouse of sin and excess.
The Cracked Barrel – A smaller, yet comfortable tavern near the eastern gates – the first tavern anyone coming through the Pinktown entrance would encounter. Run by a particularly intolerant dwarf – the only thing that runs deeper than his prejudices is his love of gold itself. There’s a small gift shop on the way out.
The Thieves Guild – the official house of registered thievery and syndicated crime in Los Jingles. They keep tabs on all licenced thefts - and bodily discourage any unlicenced larceny in the city limits. The Guild existed before Jingles’ rule, but has since gained a lot more approval and sway since his ascent. Guild members have free reign to ply their trade on any non-citizen visitor in the city or any citizen who has not paid the proper fees. The only exception to this is inside the gaming houses, which are off limits to any guild member.
Under the rulership of Donny Jingles, Los Jingles has seen a great number of changes. The entirety of the walled section of the city has been rebuilt in an effor to make everything more “classy.” The effort, refered to by some as “The great classification” saw that every place of business was required to advertise their shop with signs of gold or magical illuminations. Houses of worship have given way to large gambling dens. Civic gardens replaced with sideshows and carnivals. Every wall adorned with slogans praising the progress made by the people of Los Jingles or adverts for the newest tavern show. Even the city guard wear uniforms that parrot noble attire. It’s a city of hustle and bustle – finding a quiet corner here is no easy task.
At the center of it all is the old Mage’s tower – now known as “Jingles Tower” – the old ivory of the structure has been gilded in gold and enchanted with magic mouths that spout out inspiring messages from the city’s proud leader.
Other places of note in the city include:
Jingles Gamehouse – the largest of the gambling dens in the city, a warehouse of sin and excess.
The Cracked Barrel – A smaller, yet comfortable tavern near the eastern gates – the first tavern anyone coming through the Pinktown entrance would encounter. Run by a particularly intolerant dwarf – the only thing that runs deeper than his prejudices is his love of gold itself. There’s a small gift shop on the way out.
The Thieves Guild – the official house of registered thievery and syndicated crime in Los Jingles. They keep tabs on all licenced thefts - and bodily discourage any unlicenced larceny in the city limits. The Guild existed before Jingles’ rule, but has since gained a lot more approval and sway since his ascent. Guild members have free reign to ply their trade on any non-citizen visitor in the city or any citizen who has not paid the proper fees. The only exception to this is inside the gaming houses, which are off limits to any guild member.
Pinktown
A slum of shanty houses, lean-tos, and other ramshackle buildings that house the multitude of humans outside of Los Jingles. It is barely tolerated by the powers that be in the city-proper, because the need for cheap labor and agriculture is still to great to just purge the whole lot of them. Pinktown has no police, no guards, and basically no rules. As such it has been a developing hotbed of criminal activities. The actual population of Pinktown is unknown, but the slum itself is nearly half the size of Los Jingles itself, surrounding much of the Eastern side of the city. The eastern gate to Los Jingles is the heaviest guarded for this reason – and humans are not allowed entrance to the city except with work teams as labor, or as a part of an entourage for one of the many “whales” that like to keep human servants.
The New Verdant Empire
The great wild places to the south include some of the last remaining stretches of old growth plant life in the old kingdoms. Once a stronghold of the wood elves and their loose confederacy of petty kingdoms in the trees, now the jungles and forest to the south have a new ruling class – the trees themselves. Following the last cataclysm, a treemoot was held by all of the great ents and dryads and other such folk – and they came to the conclusion that it was the fauna of the world that was always setting these dark ages in motion. So they decided to leave the natural order and set up a kingdom where plants ruled over the animals – no longer satisfied with being the bottom of the food chain.
The coup was quick and sudden – thousands of great trees were awakened, the very forest sprang to life overnight – most of the wood elves were taken by surprise. Hundreds died, others fled, and some boughed before their new rulers. Those that remained in service to their green overlords were treated to positions of power in this new empire – and those that refused, labeled as traitors and dangerous villains. Their seems to be some great, unchecked wyld power at work – and whispers of a group only known as “the Roots” have been carried far and wide. Life itself has gone crazy within those green woods and jungles, the fauna becoming infused with some fey magic to become larger and more aggressive as rogue fey and elf alike try to fight back against the sentient plants.
The coup was quick and sudden – thousands of great trees were awakened, the very forest sprang to life overnight – most of the wood elves were taken by surprise. Hundreds died, others fled, and some boughed before their new rulers. Those that remained in service to their green overlords were treated to positions of power in this new empire – and those that refused, labeled as traitors and dangerous villains. Their seems to be some great, unchecked wyld power at work – and whispers of a group only known as “the Roots” have been carried far and wide. Life itself has gone crazy within those green woods and jungles, the fauna becoming infused with some fey magic to become larger and more aggressive as rogue fey and elf alike try to fight back against the sentient plants.
Character Creation:
Every class, race, and background from “The Player’s Handbook” is acceptable. If a player wants to attempt something outside of the book, please talk to the DM privately.
Scores can be rolled (4d6, drop lowest), bought (standard point buy), or taken as the standard array.
Starting Level is 4th.
Starting Gold is 500gp plus starting equipment.
Do not assume that magical items will be available to you from start.
Character backgrounds should be thought out as best as you can – and included in your post – DM reserves the right to greatly reward any background which satisfies some or all of the following:
*Including other characters in your background.
*Including villains or adversaries that the DM can use against you in the future.
*Including unresolved story hooks that you want to see explored.
*Including world-building elements - giving things names and lives that didnt exist before.
*Details that are interesting enough that other players decide to incorporate them into their backstories.
Bonuses will be along the lines of better starting gear, spot-light-time in game, random DM favoritism, and the blessing of the dice gods.
The Game is NOT open for recruitment. Feel free to lurk.Scores can be rolled (4d6, drop lowest), bought (standard point buy), or taken as the standard array.
Starting Level is 4th.
Starting Gold is 500gp plus starting equipment.
Do not assume that magical items will be available to you from start.
Character backgrounds should be thought out as best as you can – and included in your post – DM reserves the right to greatly reward any background which satisfies some or all of the following:
*Including other characters in your background.
*Including villains or adversaries that the DM can use against you in the future.
*Including unresolved story hooks that you want to see explored.
*Including world-building elements - giving things names and lives that didnt exist before.
*Details that are interesting enough that other players decide to incorporate them into their backstories.
Bonuses will be along the lines of better starting gear, spot-light-time in game, random DM favoritism, and the blessing of the dice gods.
feeddannow on
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Fear me.
Race: Half-Elf
Age: Unknown (appearance of a young to middle aged human)
Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
Class: Warlock - Pact of the Blade
Otherworldly Patron: The Archfey, Lady Evergold
Background: Noble
Height: 6'4''
Eyes: Ice blue
Hair: White
Goals: Immortality, Immense magic power
Str: 14 | Dex: 14 | Con: 13 | Int: 13 | Wis: 8 | Chr: 20
Skill Proficiencies: Arcana, Athletics, History, Intimidation, Nature, Persuasion
Tool Proficiencies: Dragonchess
Saving Throws: Wisdom, Charisma
Armor: Light armor
Weapons: Simple weapons
Languages: Common, Elvish, Draconic, Sylvan
Equipment: A light crossbow and 20 bolts, a component pouch, a dungeoneer's pack, leather armor, a quarterstaff, two daggers, a set of fine clothes, a signet ring, a scroll of pedigree, and a purse containing 525 gp
Eldritch Invocations:
- Agonizing Blast
- Armor of Shadows
Cantrips Known: Eldritch Blast, Mage Hand, Minor Illusion
Spells Known: Hex (1st), Expeditious Retreat (1st), Faerie Fire (1st), Sleep (1st), Calm Emotions (2nd), Darkness (2nd), Hold Person (2nd), Invisibility (2nd), Phantasmal Force (2nd)
Spell Slots: 2
Slot Level: Second
Backstory Synopsis:
Tamlyn was born many ages ago, long before the world came to ruin. He was born a prince to a long forgotten house in a long dead kingdom. Born with beauty that rival that of the gods, Tamlyn was the envy of all, including the fey that danced in the wilds surrounding the kingdom. One night, the archfey Lady Evergold decided to make him her own and stole him away in the night never to be seen again by mortal eyes for the next century.
When Tamlyn once again emerged onto the material plan it had been forever changed by the events of “The Lie”. The kingdom he knew as a boy was nothing more than sand dunes. The forests he played in as a child now scotched earth. This would be the perfect canvas for his ascent. Fueled by his lust for power, his vanity, and the magics of the feywild; Tamlyn waged war on what remained of the world.
From the Northern Tundra Tamlyn forged an alliance with the frost wizard Kallus, a young human male. While wander the Great Eastern Wastes he came upon Drackus, a female half-orc barbarian of the Eagle, who he overpowered in a duel. In the New Verdant Empire Tamlyn rescued a fledgling Eldricht Knight named Ashnel, a female Drow. From the Swamp of Creeping Choas to the south he recruited Abbey, a male human Cleric of Annthlas God of Destruction. Lastly, Galla, a male human rogue, an Arcana Trickster, sought out Tamlyn and pledged his loyalty to him. With his generals at his sides and hordes of mercenaries at his command he cut a path of destruction through all of the lands beyond the Great Eastern Wastes.
Then one night Tamlyn turned his back on his followers and wandered westward. After spending some time wandering the Eastern Wastes, Tamlyn now resides in the tavern outside Los Jingles.
Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=888226
Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=888226
Name: Aedril Chrestin
Race: Tiefling
Age: 35
Alignment: Chaotic Good
Class: Fighter- Eldritch Knight
Eyes: Silver
Hair: Crimson
Skin: Dark beige
Horns: straight, but tilted and follow the curve of his scalp.
Speech/read/write: Common and Infernal
HP: 31
STR 15 DEX 16 CON 15 INT 13 WIS 9 CHA 9
Feats/Abilities:
Action Surge (Fighter)
Fighting Style: Dueling (Fighter)
Weapon Bond (Fighter)
Darkvision (Tiefling)
Hellish Resistance (Tiefling)
Infernal Legacy (Tiefling)
Crossbow Expert (taken instead of Lv4 ability points)
Spells:
Cantrips (2): Blade Ward, Mage Hand
Known Lv1 Wizard (3): Burning Hands, Shield, Thunderwave
Spell Slots: Lv1:3 Lv2: 0 Lv3: 0 Lv4: 0
Skills List:
Acrobatics +5 (Dex/Prof)
Animal Handling +1 (Wis/Prof)
Arcana +1
Athletics +2 (Str)
Deception -1 (Cha)
History +1 (Int)
Insight -1 (Wis)
Intimidation -1 (Cha)
Investigation +1 (Int)
Medicine -1 (Wis)
Nature +1 (Int)
Perception +1 (Wis/Prof)
Performance -1 (Cha)
Persuasion -1 (Cha)
Religion +1 (Int)
Sleight of Hand +3 (Dex)
Stealth +3 (Dex) -- Stealth disadvantage from Chain Mail
Survival +1 (Wis/Prof)
Fighter Starting Skills: Acrobatics, Perception
Background: Folk Hero ( Animal Handling + Survival skills, Proficient in Artisan Tool[Smith Tools] Land Vehicle [Wagon])
Variation: I stood alone against a terrible monster
Personality: (1) I have a strong sense of fair play and always try to find the most equitable solution to arguments.
(2) I'm confident in my own abilities and do what I can to instill confidence in others.
Ideal: Freedom: Tyrants must not be allowed to oppress the people. (Chaotic)
Bond: I protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Flaw: I have trouble trusting my allies.
Bio: (Still writing)
Starting Equipment:
Chain mail
Longsword + Hand Crossbow (2 martial weapons)
2 handaxes (instead of light crossbow/bolts)
Dungeoneer's Pack (backpack, crowbar, hammer, waterskin, 10 days rations, 10 pitons, 10 torches, tinderbox, 50 ft. hemp rope)
Purchased items: Grappling Hook, 20 crossbow bolts, crossbow case, bedroll, wagon, smith tools
GP Left: 440
Stale air and dust clung to his nostrils. He had penetrated further into the ruined structure than preceding runs. Often, beasts made their homes in these old structures. Though, they were not much problem in small numbers. Aedril carried no torches as his eyes were well accustomed to the dark places of the world. In old forgotten places, torches and spell light often attracted more attention than it was worth. He was a ruins runner; brave and sometimes stupid people who would venture into the abandoned structures of past civilizations hoping to find artifacts of bygone eras. Certainly, it was not the safest job, but artifacts were worth a lot of coin to the right clients. Further into the darkness Aedril walked, not knowing what he’d find, only knowing that he’d know what he was looking for when he saw it.
He had been walking for what felt like hours, stepping carefully across uncertain footing, as often these old structures had gaping holes, and crumbling floors that could collapse without warning. The older races spoke of greedy and reckless wizards who endlessly sought power, sucking the essence from the very lands around them. It was they who caused the very world to become unhinged, and civilization to come to an end. The people Aedril grew up with were the remnants of a bygone era, and much of his life growing up was simply trying to survive. Still, he did good where he could, though he had little respect for the laws of the city.
Aedril stopped in his tracks, having penetrated deeper into the ruin than any before him. The room he was in was barely standing. Cracks and fissures ran through the walls, and the floor was barely stable. Some rifts in the ceiling tore through to the outside, and thin columns of light shone through the darkness. The air grew thick, stifling his breath. Suddenly a shrill hum tore through the air, so loud that his teeth rattled, and his horns resonated. His tail lashed and curled around his leg in agitation, as if trying to ground himself. The supporting structures of the room vibrated, the fissures cracked and widened, and the entire room started to crumble. Aedril sprang for the doorway, diving out just as the ceiling collapsed behind him. Scuffed and bruised, he rolled to his feet,“Ah, Hell, that wasn’t a trap. Must be the artifact is nearby.”
Unfortunately, the sound had awakened the local denizens of the ruin, though these were a little different than the usual beasts he knew. Humanoid like shapes, mostly formed from shadows started to close in on Aedril. “Well, shit.” Magic generally carried a heavy stigma of distrust and fear. That didn’t mean it wasn’t still useful, however.
Aedril’s blade sang as he drew it from its scabbard, faintly glowing in the darkness. The gathering shadows surged forward, and Aedril lunged forward to meet them. The shadows rasped their curses as his blade slashed through their forms. They clawed, and he lightly hopped and dodged around their grasps. His footwork light and quick, calculated strikes slicing through the forms around him. His dance was death. His blade slashed, pierced, and spun as he danced through the crowd of shadows. Their forms dissolved where the blade passed through, and slowly their numbers dwindled. The remainder fled back into the shadows. Their curses, raspy and whispering, faded to silence leaving Aedril alone and panting. He sheathed his blade, and took a moment to catch his breath. He grabbed the canteen from his pack and took a swig of water.
He turned back to the collapsed room, peering into the darkness, and saw that the floor had collapsed to a lower level. There, on a platform was a small object hovering and emitting a faint glow. “Ah, there you are. Now, to get a closer look, and see what you are.” Aedril descended into the room below using a grappling hook to repel down. He approached the platform cautiously, wary of any traps, but all was silent. He leaned over to look at the item up close.
“Hmmm, no idea what you are, or what you’re worth, but Vigo wants you. Let’s see, small, elongated diamond shape about the size of my fist, engravings that I can’t read, and emitting a faint glow. Seems like magic to me. Well, in you go! Just hope you don’t collapse any more rooms on me before I get out!” Aedril plucked the artifact from the air and stowed it in his backpack. Having acquired what he needed, he made his way back to the entrance of the structure.
Three men wearing leathers, and carrying small weapons stood outside the entrance near Aedril’s wagon. They turned toward him as he exited. Aedril smirked, “Hey now, you’re a little late if you’re also hunting out here.” One of the men came forward. His head was mostly shaven except a black lock that was tied back in a pony tail. His hands rested on the hilts of his short swords. A tattoo adorned his face marking him as one of the thugs from Pinktown. “Vigo sent us here. We’re to take him the artifact. Hand it over.” Aedril frowned, “He’s been my client for months, and I have a contract with him. There is no way he’d not trust me to deliver.” The other two approached, flanking their leader who continued, “Well, contract’s ended, and we’re taking it to him.” The two men moved forward to either side of Aedril, “Now, hand over the artifact and maybe we won’t cut off your tail, ploughing devilspawn.”
Aedril grimaced and stared the leader directly in the eyes, “Not happening, and I’d suggest you and your two lovers get out of here. I am very dedicated to my contracts, and if you get in my way, I won’t let you off easy.” Blades rasped from sheaths, and the two men on the side both sprung at Aedril. Aedril drew his blade and whirled, deflecting the attack from man on the left, and slicing into the cheek of the other assailant on the right. The two men pressed forward as Aedril quickly hopped and danced out of the way of the attacks. The left attacker swung high as the right attacker jabbed towards Aedril’s midsection. Aedril rolled left and back to his feet, spinning and slicing one of the men across the back. The blade cut deep, and blood dotted the barren ground like red blooms. The leader hadn’t moved yet, but again the two were upon him. Aedril back pedaled as the men quickly darted in with quick and light attacks. He kept his foot work up while deflecting the attacks, waiting for an opening.
One of the men lunged forward, and Aedril spun inside the attack, deflecting the weapon to the outside, and he kicked his foot out, stumbling the attacker. Aedril immediately spun inside the slash of the other man’s weapon, taking a glancing cut across his shoulder. He ducked again as the man turned his blade back for a slash at Aedril’s head. Inside the strike, Aedril lunged forward, running the assailant through, and pushing him off his blade. Aedril quickly turned to face the man he tripped, but leader was pulling his sword from the back of the man’s neck, “Ah, it’s so hard to find decent help these days. Gutter shite, not worth the weapons they’re using. Ah well, it’s not like Tuppence was going to pay them anyway.”
Aedril frowned, “Who? I thought Vigo sent you?” The man laughed, “Well, he did, in a way. But it’s not like you’ll figure it all out. I’m more than enough to handle you. And I’ll be taking that artifact.” Aedril’s eyes widened as the man thrust his hand out, sending a lance of energy into Aedril, knocking him onto his back. Aedril rolled and hopped to his feet, hand crossbow materializing into his hand, he fired a shot, catching the man in the shoulder. The man slumped, and chuckled, “Ah, I guess I deserved that.” Aedril winced, his chest felt like it had caved in from the blast, and the pain was severe, “Who the bloody fuck are you?” The man stood, grinning, “My name isn’t really important, but they call me Blood Eye. Tattoo and all,” he shrugged.
Aedril shouted, “I don’t care who you work for, but I really can’t let you have this, so instead, I’ll give you something else!” Aedril raised his hand and slammed down onto the ground, emitting an electrical shockwave, sending his opponent flying onto his back. Aedril immediately ran for the wagon, and shouted back to the man, “Might want to get out of here! The beasts aren’t going to have appreciated that noise!” Aedril slapped the horse as he climbed into the seat, and headed off back towards the city. Blood Eye got back to his feet, spitting out a tooth, and looked around him as beasts started to circle the area. He grinned, opened a portal, and was gone in a flash of light.
Aedril urged his wagon forward at all haste. He looked back, “No sign of that bastard, shit but my ribs are going to hurt for a week after that!” One of the gates of Los Jingles quickly came into view on the horizon. Aedril checked his bag briefly, making sure the artifact wasn’t damaged in the scuffle, then tucked it away again. Throngs of people littered the area around the gate, some haggling with guards to be allowed through, others having their wagons searched for contraband. Aedril pulled his wagon around the side and a guard approached.
“Ah, Aedril, back from another run, are ya?” Aedril smiled, “Jasker, haven’t see you in a while. Why’d they put you on gate duty?” Jasker frowned, “Well, seems a few guards got sloshed on duty, and were thrown in the cage to cool down. They needed extra hands. Apparently the merchants are gathering this month, and it’s going to be getting busy over the next few days.” Aedril nodded, “Well, I need to get to Vigo, I’ve got something for him.” Jasker shook his head, “Wouldn’t recommend it.” Aedril was taken aback, “What? Why’s that? You know he’s my client.” Jasker looked stern, “’Cause Vigo’s dead.” The blood drained from Aedril’s face, “Dead, what? Why? When?” Jasker shook his head, “I’m not the one to ask, I don’t have details. Seems like it happened the night after you set out for your run, beyond that, I don’t know anything.” Aedril frowned, “Well, thanks for the information. What the blazes is happening in this city? First the whole artifact trade is drying up, and now a prominent merchant is dead, possibly because of it? Ah, shit.” Jasker smirked, “Well, at least you’re alive.” Aedril pursed his lips, “Yes….barely. Oh, right, here’s my permits, at any rate. Are they still viable? It’s not my fault he was killed while I was gone.” Jasker frowned, “Ordinarily, no, but I’ll let it slide. You’re cleared, now get moving. And be careful.” Aedril nodded, “Of course. See you around Jasker.” The guards motioned Aedril’s wagon through, and Aedril headed toward the merchant square, where he had a small stable rented for his horse and wagon.
Wagon stowed and horse tied, Aedril headed out into the city streets, mumbling to himself, “What the fuck am I going to do now, and who the fuck killed my client!?” Aedril headed up the street further into the merchant square, heading for a tavern, The Cracked Barrel. A couple beggars on the street grabbed at Aedril as he passed by, “Hey mate, got any coin for us poor folk? Recon you’ve got something.” Aedril glowered, “Hands off your rotting piss bag! I’m a fucking ruins runner, and my client’s fucking dead! If anything I should be asking YOU for coin. Gah, let go of me you fucking gutter shites!” The beggars let go and half ran half hobbled off, shouting curses at him. Aedril proceeded forward, but felt something shoved in his boot. A note, ~Aedril, meet me at the barrel we both need drinks. J.~ Aedril smirked, “Since when did he start using beggars as messengers?” Aedril tore the note, and tossed it into a brazier, and continued towards The Cracked Barrel. Besides he was hungry.
Aedril entered the tavern and chose a table near the corner. The air was thick with the smells of the kitchen and stale ale. A single minstrel played a lively jig on his fiddle, or at least made an honest effort as the occasional sour note rang out. The tavern was neither packed nor empty, and Aedril had time to mull over recent events before a barmaid wandered over to take his order, "Ah yes, just bring me something simple, and two mugs of the hardest liquor you have." The barmaid wandered back towards the kitchen, and then back to his table with his beverage. He nursed his drink while he waited for his food and the note's author to arrive.
Aedril was half done with his mug when Jasker wandered in, looking around briefly before noticing him and heading over. "Ah, Aedril, you got my note?" Aedril nodded, "Truthfully I was on my way here anyway. I needed a stiff drink. Really stiff." Jasker nodded and sat down. He took a long drink from his mug before speaking, "I'm sorry I wasn't very helpful at the gate, but I know someone who might have some more information, also, stay away from your client's shop. It's a mess in there, and I don't want you getting in trouble with the guards....again." Aedril sighed, "Yes mother, I promise not to piss off the oppressive idiots running the blo-," Jasker interrupted, "I'm serious Aedril. The guards are more uptight than usual right now. Vigo isn't the only one who's ended up dead or missing. Furthermore, they keep pressing our old mentor to rejoin the guard, might ask you too. The problems with these deaths, and the merchants streaming into the city for the seasonal trade festival, we're short handed."
Aedril sighed, "So they're really asking Anton to rejoin? That's surprising, considering his history. He trained us both, after all. As for me, I'm surprised they'd come looking for me. I didn't exactly meet their expectations." Jasker wore a grim expression, "Yeah, it wasn't exactly protocol, but he saw a lot of promise in you after you defended those farmers from that beast. Still don't know how you didn't die from that. You yourself may not have fit well with the guard's tenants, but you're not bad with a blade. Could certainly give me and several of my mates a run for our money." Aedril smirked, "Eh, I guess I just have a knack for sharp objects. At least when running out for artifacts, I usually only have to worry about my own neck. If they do ask me, I'll refuse, naturally. Besides, the barracks are too stifling for my taste."
Jasker simply nodded and lowered his voice, "Now, about the information, apparently our dear mentor has a brother he doesn't like to talk about. Goes by the name Dazek, lives in Pinktown. He works side jobs as some sort of hedge wizard, or sorcerer, and worked for the city's archaeology sector for a time. He might have some ideas as to what's happening. If you go to meet him, be careful. I think Anton wanted to forget about him for a reason." Aedril nodded, bad blood between kin wasn't uncommon, especially if one of them ended up having some magical talent. "How'd you find out about him if Anton doesn't like to talk about him?" Jasker smirked, "Well, remember I mentioned those guards that got sloshed? We were drinking with them, and Anton got really drunk....I mean he near pissed his brains he was so drunk." Jasker grinned, "Apparently he gets really talkative about his past when he's like that." Aedril chuckled, "Ah, Anton I'll have to drop by his place. I haven't talked to him in awhile."
Jasker finished his drink and got up from the table, "Well, that's it for me, I have to get back to my post. Break's over and all. Aedril, whatever the hell's happening with the artifacts trade, don't dig too deep. Dangerous people are involved, and I'd rather not see you or my comrades end up dead in some misunderstanding." Aedril smirked, "I promise to try not to kill any guardsmen while I'm digging around. Though I can't say the same for whoever killed Vigo." Jasker wore a grim expression, "Aedril, seriously, let it drop. Whoever killed the merchant is someone with influence, and you're not going to get anything done on your own. If you are really serious about this, find some help. I won't aid you, because I'm a guard, and my hands are tied on this. Anyway, stay safe, and try not to piss anyone off." Jasker gathered his things, and headed for the tavern door leaving Aedril to mull over his options. Finding help might not be a bad idea.
Aedril character sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=889486
Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=888226
Having gone mad from a life of villainy and over-exposure to gamma radiation, the weakened mind of the defiler was easy prey. The parasitical kitty was happy to take up residence. Now Murphy Fogg roams the land, seeking whom he may devour - or at least bat around for his own amusement.
He can talk. It's normal.
Character Sheet
Other:
Spider Frost
These are the people that every PC should know about. As the party discovers more of the world, we’ll update this list.
Donny Jingles, Gnoll Entrepeneur, ruler of Los Jingles, all-around classy guy.
The gnoll known as Donny Jingles (or “Mr. Jingles” to you), is a pretty unusual case for a gnoll. Though he sports the large frame and musculature of his murderously evil kin, there is also a sort of smug charm and wily charisma to him. Physically, he’s no spectacular specimen; a long life of comfort has made him softer around the edges than gnolls someone might encounter outside of the city – but his mane of golden hair ( So rich! So vibrant! ) and the knowing twinkle in his dark eyes is at once powerful and disarming to behold. There is no mistaking the buzz of magic that surrounds him – no other man or being in the city is as adorned in magical trinkets (rumored to have been plucked from the old Wizard King Baraccus’ personal treasury) as Donny Jingles. The air buzzes excitedly around him. When he speaks, people listen – and he loves to speak.
Tuppence the Goblin, (Formerly Topknob Kobbernuf) – Right hand to Donny Jingles, criminal kingpin, a real jerk.
Goblins are drawn to power – and powerful goblins are drawn to even more power. When goblin boss Topknob Kobbernuf heard of a gnoll leading a city, he took his rag-tag band of murderous raiding goblins and brought them to serve under this new strange power. But Jingles had little use for murderous minions disturbing his streets – so that’s when the light came on in that goblin’s diseased brain. He arranged a “deal” with the (now former) leader of the thieves guild of Los Jingles… and within a week, he was the new criminal overlord of that fair city. Sporting a new look and answering only to his new classier name, Tuppence the goblin is rarely seen outside of his offices at the guild. His presence is felt across the city however, as every guard and thief in town knows who holds Jingle’s favor – and as long as Tuppence keeps the boss rolling in coins and magical artifacts, it’s unlikely that he’ll lose that protected status.
Bothan, Human activist, Shaman of the Rat
Though few have ever met him in person, many of the people in Pinktown know the name "Bothan the Rat." He is reputed to be one of the ringleaders behind any of a number of movements to help the humans of Pinktown get power back. It is said that he lives deep in the sewers below the town, that his only true friends are the rats - that he can speak to the vermin of the city. Rumors abound on who he really is - or who he was before - but one thing is known for certain, the only thing he hates more than cats is Donny Jingles.
Rumors from Los Jingles...
...A lot of rich merchants from out of town have been coming in recently, it's been hard to get rooms at most of the better taverns these days.
... Remember that time that half-elf assassin got a shot off at Jingles? Yeah! The bolt pushed itself out as the wound healed right there! Poor fucker was so shocked that he didn't even try to run away when the guards went to get him.
...There's a secret room where they only let VIP's play, the whole room is made of gold!
...The Golden Rooster has the best MLT sandwiches, the mutton is nice and lean.
...The rat problem in town has gotten worse, a lot of places have been looking for quality exterminators.
...talent scouts for Mr. Jingles have been gobbling up all of the best dancers and showgirls in town.
...the Cracked Barrel's owner used to be friends with the old Wizard Baraccus, but that was long ago.
...three more unregistered thieves were caught and strung up on the strip - their heads now decorate the Guild's front signage.
...That's not Donny Jingle's real hair.
...The Tower has a Beholder as a part of it's security, that's why nobody ever tries to cheat - because it's eyes see everything!
Rumors from Pinktown...
...Human Lives Matter!
...I don't think he's a gnoll at all - he's one of those lizard people, the ones that are secretly in charge of everything. Wizard King's never left, it was lizard people all along!
...The Thieves Guild is planning to crack down on Pinktown's blackmarkets.
...There's a lot of work for laborers in Los Jingles, it seems that Jingles Tower is expanding for the upcoming event.
...pickpockets are warned to be careful, Guild snitches are everywhere - stay away from anyone seen going near a casino.
...My nephew works in the Tower, he's got enough elf in him to "pass" - says the chef there is sweet on him and he get's all the leftovers he can carry home.
...Tuppence's boys smuggled something big and loud through the East Gate about a week ago.
...I hear that they're always looking for gladiators for the floor-shows in the gambling houses. But I haven't been able to get back ever since I took that arrow in the knee.
Rumors from elsewhere...
...More refugees from the south have been seen, poor bastards lost their home to a bunch of plants - you gotta feel sorry for them.
...A lot of commotion coming out of the Eastern Wastes recently, I thought that place was supposed to be empty - suddenly there's all these dead halflings turning up - all mangled and nasty looking.
Name: Faria
Race: Human
Age: 27
Alignment: Chaotic Good
Class: Barbarian Totem Warrior
Eyes: Pale green
Hair: Black
Skin: Light ochre
Markings: White ash war paint, several large scars
Speech/read/write: Common and Elven
Background:
For years their clan lived the fraught cycles of a life balanced between the reavers, treasure-seekers, and creatures of the great wastes and the encroaching chokehold of the sentient plants and thralls from deep within the jungle, until a painful betrayal by an outsider stripped Faria of her companions and her home. Enraged but undaunted, she set off alone, determined to meet and even surpass Haakar's teachings while fostering the hope that she might one day exact some retribution on the ones responsible.
Faria has travelled the wastes and cities alike, fostering her abilities and instilling within her the savage wisdom she gleans from both the beast and folk that she has battled.
Every worthy kill, every communion and every new mark to her totem breathes life and spirit back into her lost clan. Her victories are theirs and she will forge on, stretching toward legend until her spirit rejoins them.
Achivements:
Some months later she joined a hunting party to slay the dreaded Gra'az, Nightmare Beast of the western steppes. Her finishing blow fell even as the last of her companions' spirits left this plane. Wounded and once again alone, she was saved by the wandering halfling cleric, Tora. Her payment: the hide of the beast that had nearly cut her life short.
Past the fringes of the Seared Basin she was captured by a bandit troupe led by the mul warlord Porgo Sunderstrike and kept in chains for many days. On the thirteenth day, calling upon the full strength of mighty Sharga, she broke free. Raging through the camp, she managed to retrieve her precious weapon and divest Porgo of an eye before escaping over a cliff. The eye she kept as a reminder, to Porgo and herself.
As she made her way back toward the west, drawn by troubling rumors and the promise of glory, she crested a hill to find a trade caravan beset by a pack of wild baazrags. Blood singing, she charged into the fray, dispatching many of the fierce armored creatures and scattering the rest. Impressed by Faria's ferocity and cognizant of his dwindling forces, Grishak Farseer, the gnome caravan merchant, offered her meat and mead in exchange for her fighting arm on their route back to Los Jingles.
Faria now finds herself in the unfamiliar city, surrounded by strangers save for one familiar face enountered on the journey there: Tora, the Sun Cleric. She can feel Sharga stir and rumble within her and she wonders what worthy adventure will feed his hunger next.
http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=888174
Race: Halfling
Class: Cleric, Domain of Light (and life)
Alignment: Chaotic Neutral
Background: Hermit
Age: 30 (looks 60)
Hair: Sun bleached blonde dreadlocks, tied up in a giant messy bun.
Skin: Deeply tanned, but with impressive tan lines around her eyes.
Eyes: Brown
Languages: Halfling, Common, Dwarvish
Height: 2'5"
Weight: 38 lbs.
Background...
It was nearly two years before she did finally return to the clerics- skin tanned a leathery brown from countless hours staring into the sun. Around her eyes were two large circles of a lighter hue that had been spared touch of the sun, hidden under the large goggles she wore to gaze upon the sun in all its glory. The solitude changed her a bit, the hustle and bustle of city life had her on edge- she startled easy and was quick to react, often times lighting an accidental fire here and there. She also talked to herself.. And let's face it was just a little nuts. She had just spent two years staring at and talking with the sun in the wastelands.. Perhaps she hadn't been all that down to earth to begin with.
After finishing her training, she returned to the Burning Sanders but barely recognized her old family. They had struck a deal and aligned with the Hill Folk, not that there was too much wrong with them she supposed, but the desire to stay and serve under this new regime did not sit well with her. She felt the sun pulling her back out into the wastelands... She spent the next few years wandering the wastes in search of enlightenment, communing with the sun and harassing those she met along the way. The ones who surprised her usually ended up singed, those that carefully approached often times benefited from her skills as a healer, and those who assumed her a cannibal - well she just played along with those poor travelers. She ended up with quite the reputation - the mad desert healer.. approach if you dare.
It was a message from her god that finally got her to return to the cities. While she lay in the hot sands in the noonday sun, a vision flooded her mind - a woman- so beautiful it hurt- had been taken, the sun mourned her loss.. evil had taken on of the Suns beautiful worshipers, and Tora was compelled to find her! When she snapped out of the vision, she started the long trek to Los Jingles without a second thought... for where else would you find evil and beauty so close together? She always liked Los Jingles, so shiny with all the pretty lights....
Her most memorable adventures....
She had also traveled with a band of merchants who had brought her to heal a few injured beasts that pulled their wagons, much to their dismay she had just stayed after provider her services. Eventually they bribed to leave with a fancy dagger and ring. She did like how they sparkled... They had said something about magic, but she stopped paying attention to their explanations when she watched the light dance off the gems imbedded in the gold.
There was the one time she came across a man badly injured in battle and obviously left for dead - he had been stripped of all his valuables and had nothing to offer as payment for her services, but something about the man made Tora decide accept his offer of a favor should they meet again. He had been quite well spoken - though none too handsome - but of a noble family that was sure. And favors from nobles couldn't be bad right?
The one she regretted was helping a gnome reclaim what she claimed had been her rightful property - Tora had helped to capture an innocent wizard by the name of Arin, his belongings stolen by the little wretch Sigrid while Tora held him at bay behind blasts of fire. When the truth came out the Sigrid was gone and Tora had two new enemies... she still didn't know what Sigrid stole but she doubted the wizard cared. Even when Tora apologized and gave him some of her most beautiful desert glass pieces as a gift, he still screamed unspeakables and vowed to kill them both... She left him there in the wastes, always wondering if he found his way out..
http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=887546
James, Mia, and Kat are going off to infiltrate the City Guard to hopefully secure a position inside when the heist goes off. They intend to use Aedril's contact, Jasker, to help them with this.
David and Robert are going to trundle off into the sewers under Pinktown to find Bothan, the rat-priest to get a little more information.
That leaves Aniket to do some pre-heist scouting and recon on his own as a master thief and spy.
Sound right?
If there are no objections, I'll move the story forward then - we will follow all three mini-storylines concurrently.
Aniket's character has a disguise kit and could help Faria out so she doesn't look so human. If you want to do that, Aniket give me a roll (with advantage) - and let me know what you'd disguise her as. She would make for a pretty big wood elf. Or a very small half-ogre. Or a kind-of-runty-but-passable half-orc. Or she can try to go in as a human, but everyone has strong doubts as to how well that will go. The result of the roll will be used vs. anyone who really takes a good long look at her. (It's a contested roll, we'll use Aniket's best result of 2 rolls - since he has advantage - and that will be the "Target Number" that anyone would have to roll over to beat the disguise).
Murphy knows a likely place in the sewers to meet Bothan, it's mostly a matter of waiting for the sneaky rat to choose to show himself.
As for the trio going for the guards, I'll introduce your scene just after I get the roll and result from Aniket.
To keep the scenes distinct, I have three different headers to use.
"You Dirty Rat"
"A Friend in Need"
and
Aniket's been trapped in a side-event called "It takes one to know one"
Let me know any prep you would make before your scene.
Sheet: http://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=888226