Many thanks! Looking forward to it.
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Many thanks! Looking forward to it.
Got the e-mail- thanks! No level for Deor this time, but I didn't really expect one; I know he only barely made 7th last time.
I memorize 3 inherently and two more from the Harp, if you remember. Have I added any extra to my "book" or are there no such opportunities at the moment?Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
You should have the opportunity to pick up some spells from Ghân, especially on that long voyage give me a list of 4-5 1st level Druid Spells you are interested in and I will let you know if you could and did learn them.Quote:
Originally posted by Malacandra
Okay, last time I spelled up I think it was Faerie Fire, Hypnotism and Stunning Discord so suppose I put Animal Friendship, Entangle, Purify Water and Speak with Animals on the wish-list. If there's any interesting wildlife and the opportunity to befriend some of the local fauna while we're preparing for the next expedition, I wouldn't turn it down.
So what's the latest role call then, and when do we get started on the next adventure.
Impatient, me, never......
I am failing to get the new players their characters. This is the delay.
What Exit?, My character's name will be Redwulf...I'd also like to choose the natural cleric healing special ability; any more info needed from me?
Were you going to be a straight cleric or a Warrior Priest. You mentioned Oromë and I think Rohan.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
Which number did you see for the natural cleric healing special ability? I don't have a match and it does not really fit the Warrior Priest BTW.
Hrm, if thats the case maybe I should review the list again. I'm definitely going to go with a Warrior Priest of Orome, from Rohan.
ETA : #52! Distance Judger!! Should help me with the bows and what not.
Looking forward to welcoming the party's new members soon! What Exit?, you're a hero yourself for putting all this time in.
Happily seconded.
Just pinging in. I think Ithilneth is ready to go, except for the spell list.
I'm proposing Ceol as the name for my paladin. The "eo" fits with our other Rohirrim.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Cool! How would you pronounce that, just so I can imagine it a little better?
First Draft finally going out today. Stuff in green needs to be filled out. Comments are of course solicited.Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
"KEE-ull". I think. :D At least, that's how I'm pronouncing it.Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
A few months back, an Irish friend of mine was helping me find a name for a bard character in another campaign, and she'd suggested that one. I ended up going with a female character in that game, and so went with a slightly different version (Ceoile).
Sending it back to you now. Looks good to me!Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Welcome aboard!
It means music or musical? Is that right?Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
For stat priorities? I am going with Wis & Dex, then Con & Str, finally Cha and last Int.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
Specialized in Bow with a Horse Bow is fine? What melee weapon do you want?
While we're at it, Alignment (LG, NG or CG), Age (21+), Height and Weight, Hair and Eyes?
Go with NG. All the cool kids are NG. ;)
Melee weapon : Knife / daggerQuote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Alignment : NG
Age : 30
Height : 6'0"
Weight 210
Hair eyes : Black / Green
And a minor correction on my name, Not sure what I was thinking but Redward was an old english name...not sure where the wulf came from.
You are correct! :DQuote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
First version of Redward is out. That is three new characters.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
I still need to come up with eleanorigby's. A half-elf archer.
So Ceol, Paladin of Rohan, is a cousin of Deor and Theogrim- Koldanar, do you want to get in on this family thing, or stay independent? One Cent Stamp and Kenobi65, should we work up a surname for this family?
Hmm. Maybe you should get matching bomber jackets, too....
Thanks for the offer, Appleciders, but my character has issues with the family I already gave him :)Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
I was thinking Members Only jackets, myself. ;)Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
This is going to be quite a large party when we get started in the next adventure.
Looking good.
double post
Prestolwenis on her way to eleanorigby.
I included a short primer in the Email and thought I would post it too:
I will start the next adventure next week. Hopefully early in the week.Quote:
You can ignore a lot of the numbers on the page, it is mostly for me to run the game.
Stuff in Green highlight needs your entry. Please let me know Prestolwen's Height and Weight and Eye color; also the name of your horse.
You will probably need some help with playing and questions. This is pretty much all the players that have been CC'd. I think I have them all.
Some simple things to get you started.
Your character has average strength but exceptional dexterity (agility) and is also very fast and fleet of foot with her Elven Boots on. You move 50% faster than the average human and this can be helpful, especially for someone that relies on the bow.
You have an excellent constitution that adds to your total Hit Point. Your own hit points are excellent: You have 67 points of damage you can take before dropping. Your Wisdom and Intelligence are high which adds to your Herbology and healing and in many other areas. Your Charisma is high which is appearance, leadership and overall base reaction role to you from the non-playing characters of the world.
Stats range from as low as 3 to a normal max of 18. 18 charisma would be top model or actress level of comeliness. Arwen was higher, Éowyn would have been 17 to 18.
You can use the sword but are not good with it but are exceptional with your bow that you made yourself under the tutelage of the Elves of Greenwood, (Legolas's people).
I have the basic history in place; you joined the Army of Gondor with a few other Healers from the House of Healing in Minas Tirith. You actually know Gilraen a little. She is the second eldest princess and has been mostly missing the last year as she adventured with the party you are joining.
If fighting undead, tell me you are using your magic arrows and look for them when the battle is done. They can often be repaired or reused.
As to healing, you pretty much just say you will check someone over and attempt to heal them. We keep things fairly arbitrary to make life simpler. For any cut or wound you will heal 2-3 points of damage. It is pretty simple. If someone took 5 arrows hits in the end you can use your skill to heal them 10-15 points of damage. Rather handy.
Your bonus to hit with the Bow means you will hit more often than not.
You have 2020 in gold, gems and jewelry to buy stuff if and when needed.
The magic potions may be used on yourself or others. They are very handy, but once used, they are gone.
Yeah - I'm psyched! Good to see that Prestolwen's got a connection to Gilraen, too.Quote:
Originally posted by CatInASuit
New adventure is here: Middle Earth FA64 D&D Game: Seventh Adventure – The Ruins of Old Hatha
So, is there a pretext for Ithilneth to join the group? Or should I just come up with a vague reason when I introduce her?
Good point and bad oversight by me. I will have General Haldon put the party together. However all 4 new players were part of the army that came south. This is especially easy for the 2 from Rohan.Quote:
Originally posted by Pleonast
Poking about the internet, I found a copyright-free clone of 1st Edition AD&D called OSRIC. Useful for those of us without the books.
Nitpick: the plural of "mallorn" is "mellyrn". (That's what we get for letting a linguist of Anglo-Saxon spec a language.)Quote:
Originally posted by Pleonast
BIG NOTE ON SPELL CASTING: You just list one each on the spells and then cast them using up your spell points. As a mage of 5th level has 4,2,1 for spells they could choose, Detect Magic, Levitate, Message and Sleep at 1st and Knock and Wizard Lock and 2nd and Fireball for 3rd you would be able to cast any of these spells up to the number of spell points you have and limited by your level.
Now you can convert higher level spells down at the loss of one spell point, so a 3rd level gives you a second or two firsts. A second gives a 1st. To convert up though you must add up to the level x1.5 so you cast an extra 3rd would take 5 spell points or 2 seconds and 1 first.
Therefore a 5th level mage can cast 5 sleeps at the expense of all 4 1st and 1 2nd. They would still have a 2nd and 3rd left over. I hope this makes sense.
So in the intro to the game thread, Prestolwen's class is listed as "Archer". Is this a class distinct from "fighter", or is she simply a fighter who's taken all her specialization in archery?
Basically just a fighter that specializes in archery. A few advantages to it and they never where Plate Mail, Banded Mail or Splint Mail armor.Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
Quick little posting primer to the Game threads:
Where possible, avoid quoting in thread. Try to write your posts to make it clear what you are responding to it makes for a more readable game thread and keeps the story flowing better. In the long run I reward a small amount of extra experience base on this.
A big part of the experience in this game is the character play.
When casting spells, put the spells in Blue color and I will note damage to the party in red. Usually in the format of Sala take 3 more points of damage for 13 total now.
Try to put asides and jokes and comments into this the setup thread. Use and abuse the setup thread for anything including discussions of old games, Middle Earth, odd thoughts and what not.
This is also the best place for questions as other might be able to answer it besides me and when I do answer, it might be helpful to other players.
I didn't think plate armor was any different in 1st ed than the later editions in how easy it is to get into unassisted. Good to know my suspicions were right. (Well not really good. Silly encounters not happening while I'm on watch....)
Yep, the party probably needs a rule of thumb. If encounters in night, wake Bitur immediately, he is an old campaigner and can fall right back to sleep but will have the hardest time getting his armor on.Quote:
Originally posted by Hoopy Frood
Will my Protection from Evil spells have any benefit against Trolls?
Good question and no, it only helps against strongly evil. The undead and the like or evil clerical types.Quote:
Originally posted by Pleonast
Does Ceol think he'd have enough time to get to Leofwin and saddle him before the trolls reach our location?
Saddle yes. Bard no.Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
Fair enough. I was positive the barding was too much to ask, anyway. :DQuote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Just to let all of you know: I'll be out of town this weekend, without access to my computer. I'm leaving today, mid-afternoon Chicago time, and won't be back online until late Sunday evening.
Is there a standard protocol for how the group handles this sort of thing? I have no problem letting What Exit? determine the brave-yet-foolhardy actions of our Rohirric paladin. :)
Especially with a new character, it would help to give me a few options,Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
example: Ceol will wait for a chance to charge and then attack with his swords.
Oh one oddity, with your strength and strong bow you are only -5 to hit for range. This might change your initial steps in combat. There is time to loose 2 rounds of arrows and still remount for a charge.
Also I have noticed the game usually slows on the weekend. Though with a new adventure and a combat that might not be true this time.
OK, given this info:Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
- Unless asked to by other party members, Ceol won't be the first to fire (though it sounds like it might be a good way to encourage the main force of the trolls to continue up the hill)
- Once trolls crest the hill, Ceol will charge for one good hit with the lance, then drop the lance and switch to swords.
I'm rarely around on weekends. Mainly because when you date the same woman for over 3 years and you still live 50 miles apart so you typically only get to see her on the weekends, I don't spend a whole lot of time online then.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
For that matter, I may be scarce until Thursday or so. I'll try to check in daily or so, but I won't be able to do anything much.
What Exit?, another question about bow range; you said they're 25" away; on my sheet L is 20 and X is 30; does this mean then the trolls are between the two away, so I would take the larger negative to hit (-6). Also, sorry all for being out so long; we had a sick cat, who is on his way out :( Been taking care of that and losing myself in work this week to not worry.
0
Exactly, the range is the max for each category so 25" is in the X (extreme range) for a -8 to hit. Ouch.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
This is a very relaxed game so don't sweat absences. I will post the first few rounds of combat later today. I am just giving players a chance for final instructions.
Sorry to hear that. Hope his passing is pain-free, and that you always treasure his memory.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
Specifically for Appleciders but in general info.
For future Reference, on the standard Stone/Cave Trolls fire, Cold and lightning would have only 1/2 effects and then as their saves are excellent, only 1/4 most of the time.
Sleeps are of course useless. Charms of minimal chance of working.
The Fireball Deor did throw did 11 points per troll so 44 points of damage was still worth the spell. It also made the difference in dropping one. I mentioned magic missile as you listed on the spell list for the day.
Most players are already doing it, but I like to encourage posts being in the form ofThis is not only easier for me but gets all the players used to the character names. Again, I think most players are doing this most of the time so this is more of a thank you.Quote:
Deor will again try to finish off trolls with a Fireball. If there does seem to be a melee getting started, though, he'll cast Levitate and get out of the fray.
Is there any point to me lighting up my helm? Would it improve visibility for the final round of shots for the archers and possibly blind the trolls a bit or would that just make me an easier target?
No help as it is only torch light but with the enhanced vision you get from the helm it helps you when they are within 8". You can hit the ones without a torch without penalty.Quote:
Originally posted by NAF1138
Also were you going to use those special +4 bolts for your final shot?
If you want, you can probably call for Gilraen to cast a light spell on you to help in the hand to hand fighting. They won't like this more brilliant light.
Yes on the + 4 bolts. And I will ask Gilraen for the light spell before I go messing with my helm. Thanks.
Ok, I'm happy to fire arrows, but where and at which troll? Do I kill the one who's already down?
Just put me somewhere I can do the most good or the least harm.
At this point you might be best off just following Gil-Gandel's lead (Malacandra). He suggested you fire arrows at the same one he does.Quote:
Originally posted by eleanorigby
Would sounding my horn work at this point? I was worried before that doing so would 1) be to early and 2) alert the trolls more.
Also : Don't I have my improved range skill ? I thought I got less of a penalty for ranges over short?
The Horn: Once per day may sound for rallying cry, acts as Prayer spellgiving+ 1 for friendly attacks and saving throws and -1on like enemy dice for 1 round per level.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
Indeed, I forgot this: Special Ability: Distance Judger (exact) gives bonus to hit at ranges beyond short. Med is only –1, Long is only –3, X is only –6 and Out is only –9.
I will make it more obvious in my notes so I don't forget it again.
This combat does illustrate a truism of D&D:
If you give the players a chance to prepare for a fight, they will very likely be able to open a seriously massive can of whup-ass.
:D
Indeed, and when the Hobbits are invisible and willing to distract some it makes it even easier.Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
Abso-friggin'-lutely! We did well to avoid a stand-up fight.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Ka-BLAM!!! 54 points of damage?! When Theogrim gets in a fight that plays to his strengths (i.e. large single targets on an open field), he is a damage machine. On foot in caves, not so much. :)
Grumble... Stupid fire damage reduction.... Seriously, to each his own, and that was yours. Wow.Quote:
Originally posted by OneCentStamp
Good on ya, Theogrim! Just awesome.
Nice to see the luck go with us this time, that was a lot easier with preparation and a very big heavy hitter :)
8 trolls in one go could have been a lot trickier.
That 3D6 base for the lance, the increasef strength from Redward's spell and your proficiency with said lance helps, but mostly it is the double damage on the charge with the +2 to hit. You were +13 on damage and got an above average 14 for the 3d6. Thus 26 x 2 = devastation. It also helps that Heavy Lances are +4 vs the Bravo (Pen B) hides of the Trolls. Heavy Lances are the best weapon vs. Stone hide trolls, Dwarves in plate (C to A pen) and Dragons (AA pen).Quote:
Originally posted by OneCentStamp
Yep, the trolls are not really the proper foe for most Mages. Very tough critters with never less than 8HD. So fire, lightning, cold, sleep and even web are of minimal use.Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
8 trolls in hand to hand without rounds of peppering them with missiles and the ability to charge with lances would have been very dangerous indeed. Of course if they had at least not had torches, it still would have been a lot tougher. If half of then did not wander off thanks to sneaky invisible burrahobbits well it would have got ugly and the healers would have had plenty of work.Quote:
Originally posted by CatInASuit
Sneak, Gollum sneaks. :fishbeat:Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Mulligan is more a Metal Gear Hobbit. :LOL:
(quoted from the game thread)Quote:
Originally posted by eleanorigby
eleanorigby, I just wanted to point out that this is fantastic. It reads like part of a story, which is as it should be. Any reservations you had about being able to fit in or keep up in this game were baseless. :hist:
Just as a note, I have vacation time over the next two days! YAY....this means, though, that I may be on lots, or I may not at all. Depends on how much I can get done at home :)
Have fun and if there is anything specific you want to do or suggest about the trolls, try and put it out there in the game thread.Quote:
Originally posted by Koldanar
Hey What Exit, I was wondering if it were possible I could join in the RP, at the next conceivable point?
We can do this, do you have a feel from what type of character, race, etc. yet.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
On fixing magic arrows.
Gil-Gandel is a highly skilled fletcher, Redward can help but has no special skill however Deor can add a mending spell once Gil-Gandel gets the arrow nearly fixed and this will repair the broken arrows.
I have looked over the campaign, and I see that the party is fairly fighter heavy, so I thought I would compliment by being an arcane spell caster. I was thinking a human from Gondor, and different from the other 2 spellcasters in the party in some manner, and was hoping you could give me some advice in that regard.
We have a full time Magic User in Deor. A part time Magic User in Ithilneth.
We also have a Bard with some Druid spells and Healer with non-combat clerical spells and a Warrior Priest (combat cleric).
So honestly the only thing missing is a Druid. The party had one until recently. A Wose (Druadan).
We also technically lack an illusionist, but the Bard (Gil-Gandel) will be doing more and more Illusionist spells as he gains levels and experience. The pure Illusionist never does well in my world.
So for a spell caster, I would recommend either a Druid or another Mage or Cleric type. If a man of Gondor the Mage or Cleric would make sense. If a Druid not so much.
Do you have access to a 1st Ed Players Handbook, I think somewhere in this thread someone linked to an online spell list that looked fairly accurate.
I do not have access to a 1st Edition PH unfortunately, just 2nd and above.
A druid sounds fantastic, I would love to play one. I read the synopsis of Middle Earth in this time, and I know it is after the time of the ring bearer's departure, so does that mean the elves have departed as well? What I mean is, would it be out of the question to play an elf?
Considering I'm a druid, it seems fitting.
Also, thanks for letting me join in. OCS says he has a lot of fun, and I'm looking forward to playing.
Druids can be human, Wose, Beorning and maybe even Hobbit. But not Elf or Dwarf. Elves may not be Clerics or Druids.
Woses and Beornings are very close to nature to start with in their own ways. Normal humans can make fine Druids though.
Ahhh, I must be thinking in D@D terms. In that case, I think a Beorning Druid would be awesome.
Give me stat priority after Wisdom. Cha will be high too.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
Average for 6 stats is around 89.
You'll have 40,000 xp.
Do you want to start with some animal friends?
Up to 10 HD worth allowed.
Welcome, AndrewRyan! Hope you enjoy the game.
After Wisdom; Charisma, Constitution, Dexterity, Intelligence and then Strength.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
May I put all 10 HD into one large animal, like a wolf or a bear? Or shall I split them up?
You can go one large animal, but a 10HD bear is huge of course and of limited scouting use.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
Just as an example, I've seen mixes like this in the past.
A good horse or two, Hawks or Falcons and Owls or Bats as day time and night time scouts. Some people like small critters that are hard to see and can squeeze into small places. Ferrets (polecats) are common for this. Otters, cats, squirrels, foxes, small dogs, etc.
On the other hand a good hound or wolf for tracking is useful.
A large bear is a fierce fighter but hard to keep with the party moving about on horseback. One Druid did have a giant over-sized mountain lion type cat. It was roughly 8HD, fast, used as a mount and of course a fierce fighter.
Look at post: 587 for special abilities.
Let me know 3 of those listed that interest you.
Here is the rest of the list: (The number stat over sadly)
01. Naturally sense magic on touch: 55% + 3% / level
02. CHOOSE any but Fire Starter.
03. Lightning Calculator, (You better Own one)
04. Distance Judger (exact) gives bonus to hit at ranges beyond short. Med is only –1, Long is only –3, X is only –6 and Out is only –9. For spell caster using something like fireball will do +1 per die to primary target.
05. Spatial Genius: works towards instinctively knowing how to pack, reduces tine to break camp, increases chance of safely shipping goods and help on impromptu stone work, building fast walls or mounds.
06. Mechanical Aptitude: a natural at repairing & using the mechanical, 15% chance to Open Locks, Remove traps. If trained thief will get +25%. Can repair crossbows and clockwork, anything geared. If trained in any mechanical art will excel.
07. Parlor Tricks, If Thief +25 Pick Pockets
08. Dowser: Using a willow wand or forked stick can find potable water, direction & depth of it beneath the surface. 40% + 2x Wis +5%/lvl. Range is % in feet.
09. Weather Sense, 12 hrs +1hr/lvl. Will know if magically altered. Has 20% +/-5% chance / difference in level of dispelling. (also control winds, Etc.)
10. Instinctive Item User: chance of Int +5%/lvl to identify what item is and how to use it. If non spell user have chance to use scroll simply as if too low a level to use it. May use items restricted by class. IE: wizard using girdle or Thief using fireball wand.
11. Perfect Pitch: Always sing on key, Can always get job with Nobles as a singer. Voice is instrument so +1 Cha. If Bard +15% to Bardic singing Powers.
12. Bargainer: if choose to bargain & merchant engages then reduce cost by (Int + Wis + Cha) / 2 + d20% roll.
13. Natural at Class: Paladins get abilities 1 level sooner, Fighters are +1 to hit, Clerics & MU get +1 sp/lvl, Thieves get +5% to all abilities, Rangers +1%/lvl track and +1 dam vs. orcs & giant class. Bards get the Fighter, Thief & Spell caster bonus.
14. Natural in one aspect of class: Clerics: all healing has ½ casting time and +1/level not to exceed max, or any spell caster can choose a 1st level spell and get 2x area, ½ casting time, x2 level effect on range. Choose spell. Fighters get +2 ac; Assassins & Thieves get 3x Dex bonus to choice of thief ability. Rangers get top herbology as if King or Tracker bonus to tracking. Paladins get additional +2 to all saves or turn undead at level instead.
15. Special Power: roll random power from artifact table II and drawback from III.
16. Spell use 1 per Day. Use Book of infinite spells to determine the spell. (1st –3rd level only)
17. Wound Closure: May heal a single wound of another by taking their pain. IE if they took a 10 point sword wound you can take the 10 points and close their wound. Can cure 1 wound / 3 levels / day unless a Priest in which case it is 1 / leve1 & Paladins are 1 / 2 levels.
18. Levitation. Up to 1’/ level for 1 round / level / day and if Thief auto climb walls. At 5th can use to walk 1inch off Ground for 1T / level / Day.
19. Comprehend Languages: May use for 3x Int Languages +2 rounds / level cumulative/day. At least 1 round per usage. This is verbal only not written.
20. Friends: May cast at ½ level 1/day/3 levels. If Bard or MU then 1/day/level at level.
I'll go with quicklimbed, night sight, and luck.
And I was thinking of a wolf, that was high enough HD to use as a mount. If that is kosher, I'll go with that, and fill in other animals with whatever HD I have left after the wolf/mount.
If not, I can give you a list of more reasonable animals to use the 10 HD on.
For weapons do you wish to specialize in using claws (as in as a bear?) or do you want actually mêlée skills?Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
In case I made it confusing, you only get one special ability, but I wanted a feel for which were of interest.
I am mulling over the idea of a wolf or perhaps a warg you have raised as a pup and used magics on besides animal friendship. I think this can work. Would you be adverse to a minor subplot of being on a search mission in the south for Entwives or at least other Ents? This would indicate a friendship with Quickbeam. It also plays into the oversized warg or perhaps ½ warg/½ wolf.
When possible, let me know name, height, weight, hair and eye color, age between 22 and 40. Think about general equipment and of course weapons if any.
You will have 2 shape changes with a chance to learn a third eventually. I strongly suggest one be bear which will let you change into a monstrous bear. You're normal bear form is roughly 8HD, if you change in Bear and then Druid change you will be 16HD. The other form is up to you.
I'll PM you my Email, please send me one so I can add you to the D&D group for this game and send you your character.
See post 637 and the next few on spellcaster in this game. Very important mod.
Forgot to ask, Male or Female Beorning?
Welcome to the group, AndrewRyan!
Welcome in!
As a quick question to those doing this for a while, how do you stay in character when typing on a board? In person, I feel like I've at least been able to keep in character (rather than just playing myself and my choices), but on a message board, sometimes I feel like there's just nothing I can say.
I run into this problem too; in a tabletop game, you can sit there quietly and the DM can at least verify visually that you're present and paying attention, and it's just that your character isn't doing anything at the moment.
In this medium, I think more is better re: posting. I try to do at least a small "check-in" post when the party is making decisions, even if my character isn't taking a very active role at the moment. Even if it's just "Theogrim has no taste for this conversation and goes to brush his horse down," it keeps the story moving forward rather than just having my character disappear for stretches.
Good question. If you have nothing to say, you could always just... say nothing!
Kidding.
I try to use the third person and to envision how my PC would handle a particular situation, with the limited knowledge and different worldview he has. OneCentStamp has a good approach. Also, if there's nothing Thoroncir would want to say that hasn't already been said, I might just indicate that he agrees with another PC. That can, I think, be helpful if we're trying to achieve some kind of consensus, or simply awaiting a command decision by Gil-Gandel. Of course what my PC does is not always what I would do, under the circumstances (for instance, he's a LOT braver than I am!).
If you have a different approach, and it works for you and makes for a better gaming experience for all, so much the better.
Well, I am not the best at staying in character at all times (not even close), but I try to keep in mind who Gwaelur is any time I make a choice. It helps that (by design) Gwaelur's personality frequently overlaps with my own. But I try to keep in mind the priority of responses for the dwarf and who he is.
He has a quick temper, likes to drink (to the point where it was a bit of a problem in the early adventures) and smoke. He is a general "fan" of war and battle, so he likes to plan strategies, but if he is pissed off he will just charge with little thought of the consequences. Also, although it has never come up, he is rather defensive about dwarves and their fighting ability due to some personal issue in his past, and so he will always try to get to the front lines of the fighting rarely being happy with a rear guard position. But at the end of the day he is a soldier and will do what he is told or what he thinks will be best for the party.
I also have a voice in my head that I use when I am thinking about him. He sort of sounds like Robbie Coltrane.
My old second character Giles was more different from my own personality and it was actually much easier for me to not confuse his choices with my own. He was a contrarian and a bit of a loaner. He was primarily concerned with the saftey of his traveling companions, though not particularly concerned with his own personal safety. So his choices were always about what put the party at the least risk while still accomplishing the party goals. Frequently this meant advocating a very unforgiving take no prisoners attitude. Gwaelur is more pragmatic most of the time.
Also, he hates dogs. I don't know why.
No, the monstrous bear sounds good, and in that case, I will specialize in claws. I'll choose quicklimbed as my special ability.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Name: Drindoleth
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 235 lbs
Hair: Brown
Eyes: Brown
Age: 30
I think Drindoleth will carry a staff, more as a walking stick than a weapon, tho he can use it if need be. Studded leather armor and a forest green cloak. As far as other equipment or magical stuff that I have, I suppose I will need your help with what you think I'll have, or what I'll need.
And if the warg/wolf works, that would be awesome. I'll take bear as one shapechange, tho I don't know what the other's I could take are. If there is a flying creature, I would like that one.
And no, I would not be adverse to that subplot.
Like Beorn himself. Total badassery. :dumbo:
I will provide the magical items. You got the special you wanted. It will also help with the shape changes.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
The Wolf: Animal Friend, raised from a pup. Her mother was a wolf and sire a warg but she inherited her size from the warg side and more so. The young pup drank ent draught on several occasions and grew to a great size, a size to perhaps rival Draugluin though not Carcharoth. Larger than even Huan of lore. She has been an Animal Friend for years now and faithful hound, mount and defender. 8+3HD 65HP AC: 2/B mvmt: 24” Attacks: 4claws d4+1-5 2 bites 2d8+1.
Needs a name and decide sex. Also this leaves you 5 HD worth of critters on Animal Friendship.
Radagast has taught several to shapeshift into Golden Eagle form. Incredible fast flyers and can stay aloft a long time. You would need to start thinking about a third form but not have it yet. You just made 7th. The Druid XP table is very kind.
Beornings won't usually wear hide so studded leather is probably out. Also tough with the shape changing. I'm going to come up with some armor for you though that is magical and well suited to a shapeshifter.
I will add the Quickbeam and search into your History section to be built upon.
Did you get the Druid spell list and the .pdf I sent?
Golden Eagle form sounds awesome. As for the other 5HD of animal friends, if I can have an owl, and perhaps something else that would be great at scouting. A fox maybe?Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
I'll name my wolf/steed Hound, and it will be a female.
I will add the Golden Eagle.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
An Owl and Fox will probably be only 2 HD tops. But you don't need to use it all up.
Did you get the Druid spell list and the .pdf I sent?
I'll have those 3 animal friends for now. I did get the spell list and .pdf. Do you need me to choose spells?Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
You might as well look it over: You will have:Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
Spells Bonus: +2 1st; +2 2nd; +1 3rd; +1 4th
Spells for 7th: 4,4,3,1
So 6,6,4,2
I just sent the first draft out to you. We can try to get you into the game swiftly if you like.
Interesting. I'd forgotten that, if indeed I ever knew it. I hope you'll develop that further, although I know of no one in the party with anything other than the utmost respect for Dwarves' fighting abilities. Maybe What Exit? can have us come across some scornful NPC who thinks Dwarves are wusses... the fool!Quote:
Originally posted by NAF1138
So what I gather from your email, is I have 6 1st lvl spells known. And I can cast any of them up to 7(my level) times a day in any combination, right?Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
Well not quite but close. Memorize 6 1st, 6 2nd, 4 3rd and 2 4th.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
You have the same limits to casting except you can cast down. So if you wanted to cast 7 Entangles, you would probably use all of your 1st for 6 and use a second for the 7th.
To cast 7 cure lights would take all of your 2nd and 3 more spell points as either 3 1sts or a 3rd. Check those links above as I mentioned before.
Tell me how this sounds, you are riding along and see something very odd, 3 human riders probably from the north dragging a really long sword. Would you follow to investigate?
Lets go with...
1st: Entangle, Purify Water, Predict Weather, Faerie Fire, Detect Magic and Speak With Animals.
2nd: Barkskin, Charm Person/Mammal, Cure Light Wounds, Produce Flame, Fire Trap and Warp Wood.
3rd: Call Lightning, Prot. from Fire, Neutralize Poison and Stone Shape
4th: Cure Serious Wounds and Dispel Magic
I do follow to investigate.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
You might want to sneak in a plant growth, it is very handy for setting up defensive areas for use with Entangle or even to grow new herbs and horse fodder. As the Prot vs. Fire lasts until used up on you, you can probably skip that.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
I will introduce you into the game tomorrow in that case.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
Sounds good to me. Lets kick Fire Prot for Plant Growth.Quote:
Originally posted by What Exit?
And I look forward to joining in tomorrow!
You mean we don't find him tied up at the back of the cave waiting to be rescued?
Tempting, it was even my first thought, but such a sucky way to do it. :smile:Quote:
Originally posted by CatInASuit
Besides, the sword drag relay race was sure to attract someone or something. Nice clear trail to follow and everything.
It's just something I keep in the back of my head. The current exchange about who should go into the cave first is partly being fueled by that idea. My thinking is, 1) Gwaelur is hot for action because he missed out on most of it so far, so he wants to charge in first. 2) someone suggesting that a dwarf wouldn't be the best choice to send in first...into a cave...where there is a troll waiting! Nope, that just doesn't make sense to him.Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
He'll do what's the party wants, but the thought of scouting first wouldn't really have crossed his mind in this scenario. And the thought of a hobbit leading the fight is just insanity.
Feel free to kick in with a description and greeting as you approach.Quote:
Originally posted by AndrewRyan
Quick note I overlooked. Druids hate the Undead as being as unnatural as it comes. This should prove important too for Drindoleth joining the party.
I need a name for my dad! He was a woodsman (I'm going to assume for sanity that parents are dead) who took pity on a fair Elven maid who had been captured by Sauron. He raised me as his own and (apparently) he knows Drindoleth. I am open to suggestions re his name. Or I'll take some time tomorrow to name him (dunno know what humans are called here--WWTD*?)
*what would Tolkien do?
There is not much guidance on Woodmen names. You can use almost anything. Dale like names are fine.
FYI, I might be going to see this soon: http://www.clevelandplayhouse.com/sh...asp?eventID=81
Saw his one-many Star Wars show a few years ago, and it was very funny and clever.
Whether this was intentional or not, it made me giggle. Well done. :lol:Quote:
Originally posted by Malacandra
Seconded. Although I chortled and didn't giggle, as such.
So Deor needs to have someone tutor him in the Shape Shift spell, someone who can already do something similar. Is there anything he needs to do other than start asking Drindoleth to teach him how to do this?
That is the main thing, the first shape is the toughest one. Can you please remind me of where the spell came into play, this is a thread of the game I forgot about.
I think it's one he picked up while studying with the Elves in Rivendell, but I'm not sure. It was something that happened between adventures, not during one- no captured spellbook or anything like that.
Sounds good, I'll dig through my notes.Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
You may never live long enough to see me use an unintentional homonym, my friend. :fishbeat:Quote:
Originally posted by OneCentStamp
Wanted to let you all know that I'm going to on vacation starting on Friday (4/2), and, as a result, I'll be offline from the 2nd through the 11th. Love you guys, but Hawaii takes precedence. :D
Have a good time! I'm in Chicago on vacation at the moment myself.
Enjoy Hawaii, it really is paradise. I got to spend a few days there back when I was still in the Navy.
Thanks, this is my first time there, and I'm really looking forward to it.
Elendil's Heir...tried to send you a PM, and it didn't seem to go through. Where in Chicago are you visiting? I work in downtown Chicago, and live in the near western suburbs.
Ditto this...sort of. I'm out in the far NW suburbs, work in the closer NW suburbs, and spend most of my weekends in the city.Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
On a side note, I've signed the papers to put my house on the market. It lists next Monday, and even if it doesn't sell in the next two months, I'll be moving to the city proper by then.
Kenobi if you haven't left yet, remember as a Paladin you can cure disease.
Sorry about that guys...busy weekend and busy friday / thursday, I completely forgot to at least check in here :( Thats why I kept myself outside in today's check in.
Many thanks to kenobi and Hoopy. My wife, sons and I have had a fun but very full five days in the Chicago area. I don't think I would've been able to get together with you, but I appreciate the thought.
Well, the offer's open anytime your in the area (or anyone else, for that matter).Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
Likewise.Quote:
Originally posted by Hoopy Frood
For that matter, Hoopy, you and I should see if we can get together at some point. :-)
Works for me. If you can find your way into the city some weekend, give me a heads up. My girlfriend lives in Bucktown (and I'll be moving in with her somewhere in Bucktown/Wicker/Humboldt/Ukie Village area in June) and there are some great bars around there. (The Map Room in particular is a nice one.)Quote:
Originally posted by kenobi65
Do we get the impression, based on the more frequently used caverns that the Trolls have been occupying, that they have been using this as primary living space, or as more of a waystation between raids?
It appears the trolls used this for a home. It was plenty large and fairly well hidden from view at least.
When does Sleepy, Injured Chick wake up? Can I say she's awake? And then what? Does she have a memory--does she know who she is etc?
Yep, you can determine when she awakens as you are the one that dosed her.Quote:
Originally posted by eleanorigby
We'll play out what she knows and remember.
I find I am now "speaking forsoothly" in the game thread. I didn't know I had it in me! Please smack me upside the head if it gets to be too much...
And I've "cued up" this strange women--she's all ready to tell her tale. If only I knew what her tale was.... :)
I'm sure we'll find out...
Happy Easter all, I made the update to the thread.
Malacandra hasn't posted in two days. If he doesn't soon, I'll exert Thoroncir's authority as second-in-command of the party, and we'll be off to return the lady to her troll-ravaged village.
I've been trying my hand at some linnods (http://www.glyphweb.com/arda/l/linnods.html) this week; you may see a few crop up in the game thread. Don't worry, Gil-Gandel is at no risk of losing his title as Poet Laureate of the party.
Excellent, this should make a nice addition to the game.
Thanks. Two lines, seven syllables each. Kinda the Middle-earth equivalent of haiku. It's tougher than it looks. Or, should I say, it's easy to write a linnod. It's really hard to write a good one.
Back from Hawai'i, catching up.
Managed to avoid getting sunburned (a serious challenge for a fair-skinned Irish boy like me), but I didn't escape paradise unscathed...it appears I may have a sprained ankle.
Welcome back. Take it easy, and hope you feel better soon!
Thanks! It *is* getting better, but I'm still limping around...I expect that I will be for a few weeks. So much for that "couch to 5K" program I'd started a few weeks ago.Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
Just want to add a well done/great post for OneCentStamp:
Hey, everyone gets a moment in the sun for time to time. :)
And it's good to see Theogrim offering to carry messages, and not in any way, shape or form running away, dear me no. :p
What if Aragorn died during the War of the Ring? Discuss: http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/...d.php?t=560358
One of those here too: http://www.mellophant.com/forums/showthread.php?t=10635. I should cross post I guess.Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
Done and done.
Is fire generally strong or weak against undead in this Middle-Earth?
The servants of the Dark Lord generally flee fire - Aragorn held off several Ringwraiths at Weathertop with the help of normal fire. And Gil-Gandel has had some success with his little magic toy that makes his swords flame.
Just saw the new 3D animated movie, How to Train Your Dragon. We really liked it - anyone who likes dragons, Vikings (albeit with inexplicably Scottish accents) and D&D-style adventure would enjoy it. The female lead could almost be a young Eowyn, and there's a good moral to the story.
We saw it last week and we all liked it too. My son was really looking forward to it.
Yes, two thumbs up from over here too (a shame in a way that it's so different to the books, of which there are several, though). Both my sons were enchanted.
As to the game thread... Interesting that the Dwarves could resist the cursed gold coins so easily. According to the stereotype, they should've been the first to get grabby!
I know and they had some negatives as such but Gwaelur in particular is very resistant to Magic. So even with the negatives I gave Dwarves they both made the save. The Elves I gave a 90% immunity before saves and the Half Elves I gave a 70% but Gilraen had additional bonuses and really could not fail against this threat. Mulligan was the most susceptible for class reasons. Thoroncir actually failed but was saved by item and Gilraen. Weaker Dwarves (well lower Con Dwarves) would have succumbed with ease and a Dwarven Thief type with lowish Con would have had the greatest chance of failure. Also gluttonous ones like Bombur.
So did Deor even need to make a saving roll, or did he recognize it straightaway?
He did need to save, I just storylined the result.Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
OK. I wasn't sure; Deor doesn't do so well with the Will saves, I recall, so I wondered.
Just got this book from my local library:
http://www.amazon.com/Bilbos-Last-So...3427264&sr=1-1
Tolkien's words, with nice, primitivist illustrations (almost like a hobbit might paint!) of Bilbo's and Frodo's last journey to the Grey Havens, counterpointed with smaller pictures of highlights from The Hobbit.
I have that one but I like the new cover:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/...500_AA300_.jpg
That's the same edition I got from the library.
Wanted to let everyone know that I am sick with a fever and so probably won't contribute much for a bit.
Quote:
Originally posted by Pleonast
Feel better Pleo. There is something going around LA that is particularly nasty. My wife got it last week and I am just recovering from it myself. Stay hydrated and get some rest.
Bummer, Pleonast! Take it easy and get well. We'll be pullin' for ya.
Get better soon.Quote:
Originally posted by Pleonast
Get some rest. No sense in remaining sick for too long
I'd also like to note that an alloy of gold and sliver is called "electrum", and historically was popular in coinage in the ancient Mediterranean. It fell out of favor because it was unclear how much gold was contained in each coin, and so was difficult for out-of-town merchants to use and transfer.
Also, kudos to Malacandra for blending the Shakespearean and Petrarchan styles of sonnets so nicely there.
Still recovering. Turns out I have tonsillitis. It's amazing how much an infection can knock you out.
And how! You're in our thoughts and prayers. Take it easy.
How many short swords does a girl need? I have a dagger, my bow and some kind of magical short sword. Now I see that another one would be good? :confused::eek:
I will start clanking soon. :smile:
You can probably start selling them off once we get back to town. Trading up is a major form of advancement in this game.
Advance? Advance to where or what? :confused:
Simply getting stronger as a character. It's a pretty circular game on some levels; you get stronger and therefore able to beat stronger monsters, so you face stronger monsters, which makes you stronger, and so it goes on and on.
That is something to ponder, indeed. Hmm.Quote:
Originally posted by Appleciders
In this case, the short sword we recovered from the tomb is likely more powerful than the one which Prestolwen previously had. The in-game effect of that is that you'd be more likely to be able to successfully strike an opponent with the sword, and would do more damage with it when you do hit.
As D&D characters gain experience (by defeating opponents, overcoming challenges, etc.), they gradually become more powerful. D&D is termed a "level-based" game system; as you gain experience (measured by "experience points"), you eventually gain enough experience points to gain a new level.
For example, I believe that Ceol is something like a 5th level paladin; I don't have his character sheet with me at the moment. For sake of argument, let's say that he started out this adventure at 5th level. We gained experience points for defeating the trolls, we may have gained some for helping out the villagers, and we gained some more for defeating all the undead. At some point, Ceol will have gained enough experience points to become a 6th level paladin.
As a character gains levels, they usually gain the following:
- Increased ability to hit opponents in combat (improved attack bonus)
- Increased ability to resist or evade effects, such as spells, breath weapons, etc. (better "saving throws")
- Increased ability to withstand damage (more hit points)
- If the character is a spellcaster, they will gain access to more powerful spells, and be able to cast more spells per day
- Some classes have other abilities which are gained, or improved, as the character gains in level -- for example, thieves get better at doing "thiefly" things (such as picking pockets, moving silently, etc.)
Gaining new, more powerful magic items can have some of the same effects, depending on the specific magic item.
This is a long fight. :p
I'll update now, I was waiting for more input. 7 players checked in though and too much real time has passed.
I'm gonna go get some coffee. Want anything? ;)Quote:
Originally posted by CatInASuit
Deckchair...checkQuote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
Popcorn...check
Any chance of a large Coca-Cola instead :LOL:
No problem. Ice or no ice?
Urgh. Sorry guys, had alot on my plate. Here's the complete list :
1) 20 year old cousin passed a few weeks ago.
2) Hardwood floors put in house.
3) Work, work work (where I usually read these boards).
In amongst all the prep work for getting the floors done (Our basement looked like an episode of Hoarders for a week!) and going to the memorial service, life, as it will, took over, and I completely forgot to check back in here. I make a solemn vow that I will, tonight, catch up on the thread, and make a kick ass post tomorrow. As long as no new issues come up. (Me and my GF are prone to emergencies).
No problem Koldanar and sorry about your cousin, that is pretty sad.
I hope everyone is still enjoying the game.
Very much so - thanks for your great DM'ing!
Koldanar, sorry to hear about all that. Here's hoping better days are ahead for you.
Definitely enjoying the game on my end; my apologies for the occasional vape-ing for a day or three. I plead work, too. :)
Just read John Mortimer's Rumpole and the Penge Bungalow Murders, and a snobby and sneaky British barrister in it is Reginald "Reggie" Proudfoot.
Sorry for the long weekend delay. I never had a chance to get online yesterday.
If you get a chance, the TV series with Leo McKern are well worth watching.Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
There was an excellent movie previewed last night on the HD movie channel we get. Ondine starring Colin Farrell and unknown (to me at least) Alicja Bachleda. Colin Farrell is an Irish fisherman that rescues a woman in his net and he suspects she is a mermaid. It is really an excellent movie and well Selkies play into the plot. If you get a chance to see it, it was excellent. Of course I seem to love Irish & Scottish movies so your opinion may vary.
Yes, I sent you a link to the Ondine trailer a few months back. I'd like to see the movie sometime.
CatInASuit, I've seen the Leo McKern Rumpole shows and I agree, they're very good. I understand there's someone else playing Rumpole on British TV now, since McKern died, but as far as I know the new shows haven't made their way to the U.S. yet.
I thought it sounded vaguely familiar. I think it is suppose to get a limited US release sometime soon. It looks like tomorrow it will start.Quote:
Originally posted by Elendil's Heir
I am going to try and pick up the pace of the game a little. I did not adjust for the extra large party and things have slowed down. I will try to make more smaller posts, updates and promptings to move things along. Where possible I hope the players try to do this to. Give the party a gentle shove at times like happened today.
If the pace is too fast though let me know. (or not fast enough)
Thanks! I need and always appreciate my Mellophant D&D fix.
BTW, I saw the new Russell Crowe Robin Hood movie. I'd give it a B or B- overall, but it does have a good siege scene at the beginning.
Does it feel like Robin Hood? The previews looked bad to me, Russell shouting and grunting and waving a sword and Maid Marian the Warrior from what I saw.