Paridon Constabulary Academy recruiting class (Concept ideas)
Okay, so I've thinned the herd a bit on my crop of concepts. I have cut out a few of the ideas I was batting around, and I've narrowed the field to three possibilities. I'm posting the concepts here in capsule form- partially for any feedback folks might want to give, partially because actually seeing them up here might help my brain work things through a bit more... I'll expand on these, probably over the weekend.
1. Haergrr Ranyun: half-orc male, rogue 3/urban ranger 2; Haergrr grew up in a rough neighborhood- mixed poor races and orc-kin, mostly. Most of the people he knew growing up wound up dead or as criminals- a few of them ended up in the Enforcement arm of the constabulary. Haergrr was bit undersized by orcish standards, but he was smart and canny. He started off in the Enforcers as well- most often he was the brains of his squad, and he worked hard to advance into the Investigative branch. While he CAN fight (and has a rep as a vicious fighter), he prefers to use his brains instead. Most of the time, he capitalizes on peoples' prejudice against the orcs- he acts a bit thick and uncultured (badly tailored coat, stubble and cheap cigars and all), but is actually a skilled investigator.
Quote: "Yeah, Yeah! I get ya. We'll talk ta this guy for a while- but I get ta be the bad cop..."
2. Annabelle Lee Wentworth-Smythe: 'human' female (using the Fiendish heritage feat chain), rogue 2/sorceror 1/warlock 2 (further advancement pure warlock, possibly into Acolyte of the skin- that seems Ravenloft-ish). A fallen noblewoman, of sorts- her family has been part of the city's nobility for hundreds of years, and was renowned for producing great artists and beautiful folk of both genders (and a number of flamboyent madmen). Unknown to the world at large, the family's legacy was secured by a generations-old pact with dark powers- some of their offspring had a greater share of gifts, while others had more problems. Annabelle spent most of her youth as a flighty noble with an interest in the arcane- as she grew, she began to understand her heritage, and left her family mansion. In an effort to prove herself, she joined the constabulary, working initially in the Infiltration branch. As such, when the fire destroyed her family estate, (and the horrors hidden there were carefully suppressed from the public eye by the social pressure of other families) she was able to strike out on her own. She has only recently transferred to the Investigative branch- while she continues to struggle with her heritage, she has managed to master it so far. Generally acts empty-headed and ornamental (most folk do not believe she is actually a constable on first meeting), but is a skilled scholar (especially in arcane matters) and capable investigator. (Think Clarice Starling from Silence of the Lambs, masquerading a Paris Hilton style socialite). She is rather conflicted- part of her wants to help people and relishes the challenge of matching wits and skills with criminals, but her darker nature is not entirely under control, and she can be cruel and destructive (occasionally in a rather unpredictable fashion, but certainly when crossed); she would be CN with occasional good tendencies. Disdains physical combat and firearms, but can fight at need- with magic or a dagger (and in fact she collects blades of exotic materials).
3. Aiffe Merriweather: 'human' female (using the fey heritage feat chain), bard 4/warlock 1 (further advancement warlock, into eldritch theurge); Aiffe is the only daughter of a reclusive sorceress who arrived from parts unknown about 15 years ago- she was raised and educated as a scholar and dilettante. Developed an interest in the constabulary after a number of her friends were attacked by (something awful), and spent some time with the officers investigating the case. She spent a great deal of effort in her studies, and after her mother's disappearance she began to investigate her own heritage- over the last six months she has been working with the constabulary directly, trying to find the best use for her developing powers. A far 'nicer' person than Annabelle- she generally wants to be helpful, and her mercurial fey nature is little impediment (she would be CG in alignment terms).
Okay... I've got my basic idea in mind, but I have several questions that may change my plans a bit. I've also decided not to bother with taking a level in monk, relying on Ru and Martell to protect me, or Berman to heal.
Have a couple questions I still need answered from IVV before I finalize my setup.
Firstly: Is there any chance I could swap out Ranger spellcasting for something else(I don't know what would be fair)? I know I asked before but I didn't catch an answer. Wanted to know as I didn't really want to mess with spellcasting with this character as it doesn't fit too well with what I had in mind, and I was hoping to channel that towards ranged support skills. I'd be happy with bonus feats at some sort of interval... but I'm not sure if that's fair. If not, I'll just try to make due, lol.
Secondly: What ranged feats will not apply to guns? Or will all?
Thirdly: Ranger 'archery' track; will those feats apply to guns as well, or only bows?
Going to do a tenative character sheet while I wait on these answers.
Edit: IVV, will you be rolling our starting HP? For now I'll assume 'perfect' roll for that.
Edit 2: Would it be possible to include a gun version of the PHB II feat 'Crossbow Sniper'? It may not be relevant depending on whether there will be any levelling during the adventure, but I figured I'd ask while it came to mind.
Accessible at almost any time: http://www.d20srd.org/index.htm
Complete Arcane
Complete Scoundrel
Complete Mage
Complete Divine
Libre Mortis
Heroes of Horror
Drow of the Underdark
Monster Manual 3.5E
Monster Manual 2
DMG/PHB
Psionics Handbook
Expanded Psionics Handbook
Spell Compendium
Tome of Magic
These I can access rarely:
Complete Adventurer
Complete Warrior
Complete Psionic
Races of Stone
Draconomicon
Complete Champion
A few assorted Monstrous Manuals... I can't recall which ones.
I MAY be able to access the Forgotten Realms and Eberron Campaign settings.
Last edited by Theroc; 25th April 2009 at 10:27 AM..
Did you decide, InVinoVeritas, if steel dragon is acceptable or should I stay with brass version. If acceptable, do I change breath weapon and skill and if so which (alchemy or spellcraft)-
Also, what would be appropriate Draconic Adaptation (brass has endure elements that goes well with survival skill, but this one is more scholarly). I can make suggestion, but I'd like to know if you read steel ones description?
Eugene Brasspin will be posted monday morning GMT +1. What starting wealth can we use? Standard 5th level? Are there any other rules we should be aware of?
Did you decide, InVinoVeritas, if steel dragon is acceptable or should I stay with brass version. If acceptable, do I change breath weapon and skill and if so which (alchemy or spellcraft)-
Also, what would be appropriate Draconic Adaptation (brass has endure elements that goes well with survival skill, but this one is more scholarly). I can make suggestion, but I'd like to know if you read steel ones description?
Eugene Brasspin will be posted monday morning GMT +1. What starting wealth can we use? Standard 5th level? Are there any other rules we should be aware of?
IVV stated starting wealth as 9,000 in his initial post, FYI. That's the only question I can answer, though.
More Gun related questions:
What items do I need to account for extra shots, and how much do they weigh?
It appears "Shot and powder" would be a single shot, so do I just use that? How much do bullets weigh?
Would I need the powder horn and ammunition pouch?
Accessible at almost any time: http://www.d20srd.org/index.htm
Complete Arcane
Complete Scoundrel
Complete Mage
Complete Divine
Libre Mortis
Heroes of Horror
Drow of the Underdark
Monster Manual 3.5E
Monster Manual 2
DMG/PHB
Psionics Handbook
Expanded Psionics Handbook
Spell Compendium
Tome of Magic
These I can access rarely:
Complete Adventurer
Complete Warrior
Complete Psionic
Races of Stone
Draconomicon
Complete Champion
A few assorted Monstrous Manuals... I can't recall which ones.
I MAY be able to access the Forgotten Realms and Eberron Campaign settings.
Last edited by Theroc; 25th April 2009 at 06:32 PM..
BACKGROUND
The nobles have lately taken an interest in watching the deeds of the city constabulary's Rose Company. Indeed, they have even subtley pulled some strings, to ensure attachment of one of their own to that illustrious group...
Skyler Martell comes from an old and honorable (if small) noble family. Still, his family was able to afford the best weapon's trainers, and Skyler proved to be quite adept with blade and shield. His inherent strength and endurance allowed him to match up against more skilled opponents in duels, and the young knight learned much from such matches. He is generally considered an expert-at-arms, though he continually strives to learn more.
Skyler's familiy is mostly what you would expect of the nobility. His father (Lord Tyrus Martell) is an aristocrat through and through, his mother (the Lady Dorathia Martell) the dutiful and quiet nobleman's wife. His sickly older brother Lane followed in the footsteps of his father, and has grown into a dark and brooding man of some thirty years of age. And his younger brother, the happy-go-lucky Aldric, is something of a rogue.
When asked to join Rose Company, Skyler was at first take aback. He really didn't have the skills needed for investigation. Certainly, he could fight if called upon to do so, and he knew how to threaten someone to spill information. But searching for clues and the like had never really been his forte. Still, he wasn't one to shirk his duty, and he accepted the posting.
Skyler is currently bethrothed to the noblewoman Colette Devereux, the young and beautiful scion of the Devereux family in Paridon. The young lady was not at all happy to hear about her soon to be husband joining the constabulary; not only does she consider it beneath him, but she worries that despite his skill with the blade that he will end up with a knife in his back. SKyler only smiles at her concerns, and tells her that everything will be alright.
APPEARANCE
Skyler is an attractive young man in his early twenties, well heeled and bearing himself with a certain confidence and noble air. The tilt of his head, the gait of his step...everything about the way he carries himself conveys the image of cool confidence. He is tall and muscular, with the lean, athletic build of one who has spent thousands of hours doing rigorous exercise and weapons drills. His dark brown hair is usually a bit wild and wind-tossed, his black eyes like pieces of jet. He is fair skinned, with ruggedly handsome features.
Oil Painting of Sklyer hung at Martell Manor
Sir Skyler Martell
Neutral Good Human Male Knight 4//Fighter 1
ATTRIBUTES
STR 18 (+4) 10 points, +2 gauntlets
DEX 12 (+1) 04 points
CON 14 (+2) 06 points
INT 10 (+0) 02 points
WIS 10 (+0) 02 points
CHA 13 (+1) 04 points, +1 level increase
"I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge - myth is more potent than history - dreams are more powerful than facts - hope always triumphs over experience - laughter is the cure for grief - love is stronger than death." -Robert Fulghum
Here is what I have so far. I'll be tweaking the format to look more nice later. Also a bit confused with some of the Monte Cooke items(Namely the ammunition) so if there's errors there, feel free to let me know. For the "Blast Axe" it's in the Monte Cooke PDF supplied, it's weight wasn't listed, so I combined the weight together.
Not sure what to get for my two remaining feats, thinking precise shot and rapid reload, or something along those lines. Also, I don't know offhand what the XP amount is for a character who just reached level five, so I left that ???'ed
If anyone has any additional mechanical advice(Or information relevant to the guns), particularly to better synergize with the others, I'd welcome it.
Spoiler:
Code:
Name: Rhiannon Fleetwood
Class: Rogue 2/Ranger 2/fighter 1
Race: Half Elf
Size: Medium
Gender: Female
Alignment: Neutral good
Deity: Religion isn't supremely important to Rhia, and she feels a bit bitter towards those who preach of faith, as she wonders where such faith and divine grace were when Rhia was growing up under the abuse of her peers.
Str: 12 +1 (04p.) Level: 5 XP: ???
Dex: 16 +3 (08p.) BAB: +4 HP: 38 (2d6+2d8+1d10)
Con: 10 +0 (02p.) Grapple: +7 Dmg Red: XX/XXXX
Int: 14 +2 (06p.) Speed: 30' Spell Res: XX
Wis: 12 +1 (04p.) Init: +3 Spell Save: +X
Cha: 12 +1 (04p.) ACP: -0 Spell Fail: 10%
Base Armor Shld Dex Size Nat Misc TotalArmor: 10 +4 +0 +3 +0 +0 +0 17
Touch: 13 Flatfooted: 14
Base Mod Misc TotalFort: 5 +0 +5
Ref: 6 +3 +9
Will: 0 +1 +1
Weapon Attack Damage Critical
MW DragonRifle +8 2d8+1 20-20x3
+1 Blastaxe(rng) +8 1d12+1 20-20x3
+1 Blastaxe(CC) +6 1d6+2 20-20x3
XXXX +X XdXX+X XX-XXxX
Languages: Paridonese, Elven, Gnome, Dwarf
Abilities: Low Light Vision, Elven Blood, Immunity to sleep spells and similar magical effects,
+2 racial bonus for saving throws against Enchantment spells or effects
Sneak attack 1d6, trapfinding, Favored Enemy(human), Wild Empathy
Combat style: Ranged(archery)
Feats: Track(Ranger Bonus), Rapid shot(ranger bonus, Point Blank Shot, (2 undecided feats)
Skill Points: 70 Max Ranks: 8/4
Skills Ranks Mod Misc Total
Balance 5 +3 +2 =10
Bluff 5 +1 +0 =6
Climb 3 +1 +0 =4
Diplomacy* 0 +1 +4 =5
Disable Device 5 +2 +0 =7
Escape Artist 1 +3 +0 =4
Gather information 4 +1 +4 =4
Hide 5 +3 +0 =8
Jump 3 +1 +2 =6
Knowledge(local) 5 +2 +0 =7
Listen 5 +1 +1 =7
Move Silently 5 +3 +0 =8
Open Lock 3 +3 +0 =6
Perform(Dance) 2 +1 +0 =6
Search 5 +2 +1 =8
Sense Motive 3 +1 +0 =4
Sleight of Hand 1 +3 +2 =6
Spot 5 +1 +1 =7
Tumble 5 +3 +0 =8
*Untrained
Equipment: Cost Weight
Mithril chain shirt 1,100gp 12.5lb
+1 Blastaxe 1,600gp 05lb
MW Dragonrifle 800gp 05lb
Goggles of Minute Seeing 1,250gp 0?lb
Cold Iron bullet(x10) 3gp 0lb
Adamantine bullet(x10) 61gp50sp 0lb
Silver bullet(x10) 21gp50sp 0lb
4164 gold remaining
Total Weight:22.5lb Money: XXgp XXsp XXcp
Light Medium Heavy Lift PushMax Weight: >43 lb 44-86 lb 87-130 130 650
Age: 24
Height: 5'4"
Weight: 130 lb
Eyes: Blue
Hair: Black
Skin: Pale
Accessible at almost any time: http://www.d20srd.org/index.htm
Complete Arcane
Complete Scoundrel
Complete Mage
Complete Divine
Libre Mortis
Heroes of Horror
Drow of the Underdark
Monster Manual 3.5E
Monster Manual 2
DMG/PHB
Psionics Handbook
Expanded Psionics Handbook
Spell Compendium
Tome of Magic
These I can access rarely:
Complete Adventurer
Complete Warrior
Complete Psionic
Races of Stone
Draconomicon
Complete Champion
A few assorted Monstrous Manuals... I can't recall which ones.
I MAY be able to access the Forgotten Realms and Eberron Campaign settings.
Not sure what to get for my two remaining feats, thinking precise shot and rapid reload, or something along those lines. Also, I don't know offhand what the XP amount is for a character who just reached level five, so I left that ???'ed
Precise shot is a must for any archer/ranged-attacker that has companions that will be in melee combat.
You might want to check out the d20 Crystal Keep index. They have pretty much all the d20 info you'll ever need in free to download PDF documents. Classes, feats, etc.
__________________ -Rhun
"I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge - myth is more potent than history - dreams are more powerful than facts - hope always triumphs over experience - laughter is the cure for grief - love is stronger than death." -Robert Fulghum
As far as using up your extra feats, it looks like firearms use is going to cost at least one, for Exotic Weapon Proficiency.
Really? I assumed it would be 'simple' much like a crossbow. Monte Cooke's rules had both as options, so I assumed if there was going to be a feat requirement that IVV would tell me. I suppose I should have clarified, but I feel rather like a broken record continually asking the same or very similar questions in hopes for an answer.
To Rhun: I didn't realize a resource such as this was available, or I'd likely have just taken Scout as opposed to ranger in the beginning anyway... >.>
Is there any sort of ruling(as in WotC legal stuff) on the use of PDF files like this if I haven't bought or own the books?
Accessible at almost any time: http://www.d20srd.org/index.htm
Complete Arcane
Complete Scoundrel
Complete Mage
Complete Divine
Libre Mortis
Heroes of Horror
Drow of the Underdark
Monster Manual 3.5E
Monster Manual 2
DMG/PHB
Psionics Handbook
Expanded Psionics Handbook
Spell Compendium
Tome of Magic
These I can access rarely:
Complete Adventurer
Complete Warrior
Complete Psionic
Races of Stone
Draconomicon
Complete Champion
A few assorted Monstrous Manuals... I can't recall which ones.
I MAY be able to access the Forgotten Realms and Eberron Campaign settings.
Do we who have completed the last adventure get some form of reward?
Nothing against some extra loot and an additional level...
You know, it never occured to me until you mention this, but we didn't find so much as a single gold coin, did we? That is a sign of a well-done game.
__________________ -Rhun
"I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge - myth is more potent than history - dreams are more powerful than facts - hope always triumphs over experience - laughter is the cure for grief - love is stronger than death." -Robert Fulghum
To Rhun: I didn't realize a resource such as this was available, or I'd likely have just taken Scout as opposed to ranger in the beginning anyway... >.>
Is there any sort of ruling(as in WotC legal stuff) on the use of PDF files like this if I haven't bought or own the books?
I've never really thought about it, since I have all of the books. But I suppose they must be okay with it or Crystal Keep wouldn't have them there.
__________________ -Rhun
"I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge - myth is more potent than history - dreams are more powerful than facts - hope always triumphs over experience - laughter is the cure for grief - love is stronger than death." -Robert Fulghum
Still working on concepts (and not quite the same ones). How are Hit Points being calculated (rolled, average, average +1, something else)?
Even shorter capsules for current concepts:
1. 'Gear': dwarven rogue 3/urban ranger 2; an former Enforcer, from arough-and-tumble working class neighborhood. (Deliberately) looks and acts rumpled and uncouth (Columbo), but is an expert investigator with a 'hobby' level interest in locks, traps, and engineering. Skirmish/flanking style fighter, typically with quarterstaff. Gather information, Search, Sense Motive, Disable Device, Open locks are primary skills.
2. 'Annie': human rogue 2/fighter 1/urban ranger 2; the daughter of a mysterious foreign swordmaster, she grew up around both nobles and constables. A tomboy and swashbuckler, she is a crafty fighter who is still learning the more cerebral parts of an Investigator's trade. Two-weapon finesse and mobility fighter, with rapier or pistol. Balance, Tumble, Gather information, Knowledge (local) as primary skills.
3. 'Miranda': 'human' rogue 2/warlock 3, using Fiendish Heritage feat chain; from a noble family with a rich heritage of arcanists, beauties, and madmen. Originally a socialite and scholar with a talent for the arcane, she left her family to join the constabulary's Infiltrators as soon as she was able- using her mother's maiden name. When a terrible fire destroyed the family mansion, she was the only known survivor, but the horrors that were revealed forced the other nobles to cover the matter up- she will never have land or title from her heritage. Has begun to explore the dark past of her family legacy, but remains confident in her abilities.. Probably headed for the Acolyte of the Skin PrC, though that would not be until at least level 9 so it seems unlikely to matter. Arcane and social scholar, but her gifts seem inborn rather than products of study. Knowledge (arcana), Spellcraft, UMD, and a number of social skills- but no skills really maxed out. Limited arcane abilities, but can use wands and scrolls fairly well. While she seems to mean well, she has a cruel, unpredictable streak- she almost seems to enjoy the constabulary more for the challenges and the ability inflict harm on criminals more than for the 'doing good' or 'helping people' aspects.
Guns are exotic weapons. This is a balance issue above anything; comparing the damage and hand utility between a dragon pistol and a light crossbow shows the importance of this.
I'll allow Rapid Reload and Crossbow Sniper to be used with guns.
Theroc, if you're looking for a gun-focused ranger without spells, you are probably better off with a fighter. An Elf Fighter 5 can have the following:
A Fighter 4/Rogue 1 could swap out the WS with Sniper, for the additional range on sneak attacks. A ranger, on the other hand, would have the following:
Note that a human fighter can have BOTH WS and Sniper.
For everyone: I'm pretty much at my limit for extra rules, so I'm afraid I won't be able to accept any additional rules beyond d20SRD + Complete Series + PHBII + Guns. Please design accordingly. I believe all the other characters so far use only these rulesets--when they were first made, I disallowed Complete and PHBII, even (Calahan was a later addition).
Regarding "extra gold/rewards": Your reward is the continued preservation of culture and good works in the city! More seriously, because you're members of the constabulary, your ability to requisition equipment covers most of that need. The 9,000 gp starting gold is a quick representation of what can be reasonably acquired. Furthermore, you'll find that your successes will quickly translate into added social status in Paridon--and that status is priceless. As an example, Fr. Berman's new pistols came from somebody. Ru's history kept showing up. (Even throwaway details can prove important later in the game. And, thanks to the forum format, I can remember these details.) In an ever-connected city like Paridon, reputations travel far.
Note to the players with characters spanning games: Review your equipment, and let me know if there's anything you'd like to update.
HP are max 1st level, 1/2+1 each level after that. (3 for a d4, 4 for a d6, etc.)
I'll review characters over the next week. If I have any more questions, I'll let you know. Hopefully I've answered everything everyone is wondering, but I may have missed something.
Did you decide, InVinoVeritas, if steel dragon is acceptable or should I stay with brass version. If acceptable, do I change breath weapon and skill and if so which (alchemy or spellcraft)-
Also, what would be appropriate Draconic Adaptation (brass has endure elements that goes well with survival skill, but this one is more scholarly). I can make suggestion, but I'd like to know if you read steel ones description?
Eugene Brasspin will be posted monday morning GMT +1. What starting wealth can we use? Standard 5th level? Are there any other rules we should be aware of?
Regarding my source limitation above, let's stick with Brass.
So I'm about done with my potential ideas, except for final equipment choices. I'm going to post all three of them here individually. I'll try to pick one by tomorrow, but if anyone has any feedback, or sees something they really like (or really hate), feel free to let me know.
Name: Ostgyrr Oldblade (AKA ‘Gear’)
Concept: rumpled detective
Race/gender: Dwarf/ male
Class/level: Rogue 3/Urban ranger 2
Alignment: NG
Height: 4’3”
Weight: 155 lbs
Hair: black
Eyes: dark grey
Age: 61
Description: Gear is a male dwarf of average height and indeterminate age. In dwarven terms, he has a lean, wiry build- so he appears merely stocky, instead of the traditional ‘so broad-shouldered he looks square’ dwarven physique. His eyes are the grey of old sword-steel, and his hair is a dull black- his head is either bald or totally shaved, and his beard is so close-cropped other dwarves would call it ‘stubble’, but his eyebrows are rather bushy. He wears the soft, almost shapeless cap of a workman instead of a gentleman’s proper hat, and his heavy dark wool coat is constantly rumpled and about a size too small. He also seems to favor cheap cigars- though he rarely seems to actually light them… In general he has the look of a rough craftsman or cheap thug. This is, in fact, a deliberate artifice on his part- a closer look reveals that his weapons and tools are meticulously cleaned and cared for (and of fine quality, as well). Anyone who works with him might also notice that his desk and paperwork are likewise extremely precise and organized. He wears a pistol at his belt, and has been known to carry a pair of hatchets, but his preferred weapon is an iron-shod cudgel as long as he is tall- he refers to it as a ‘walking stick’.
History: Like most of the dwarves in Paridon, Gear grew up in a rather rough-and-tumble neighborhood- very much a blue-collar, working class area. His father died just before Gear was born, so the young dwarf was rather communally raised by his mother’s extended family. He had a rough childhood, mostly spent on the streets around the neighborhood and brawling with the orcish gangs on the next block, and he was headed for a life in the dwarven organized crime rackets- though with his brains he would not have been simply a thug. His family finally intervened and got him an apprenticeship with his favored uncle Oskar- the older dwarf was a cantankerous wretch, but he was about the only person in the family that Gear actually liked. He was also a master-level locksmith, trapmaker, and engineer. Because of his expertise, Oskar had a great deal of contact amongst the Constabulary- while not actually a member of the organization, he had many friends and contacts on the force. As such, Gear got to deal with the constables as he learned his trade- and he found he liked the folks on the right side of the law far better than he had liked the lowlifes he had met on the streets. While he was smart and dexterous enough to learn the locksmithing trade, it wasn’t nearly exciting enough for him- once he had formally completed his apprenticeship, he chose to apply for the constabulary instead of setting up shop as a crafter. He originally joined the Enforcers, and he spent more than ten years on the streets, cracking crimes and busting heads- even from the start he was often the brains of his squad, though he picked up a fierce reputation as a fighter at need. Once he received word that his old mentor had died, he realized that he wasn’t getting any younger himself and he decided he needed a different sort of challenge, so he applied for the Investigators- it took a while, but he finally made the jump about three years back. At first it was tough going- far more complicated than walking a beat. More recently, his superiors have taken a closer look at his casework- and he was selected to bolster the ranks of the Rose Company.
Game stats:
STR 14 (+2) (6 pts)
DEX 15 (+2) (6 pts, +1 at 4th level)
CON 14 (+2) (4 pts, +2 racial)
INT 14 (+2) (6 pts)
WIS 12 (+1) (4 pts)
CHA 8 (-1) (2 pts, -2 racial)
((28 total))
Equipment (9000 gp total- partial list only)
-Chain shirt +1
-Vest of resistance +1
-Heward’s handy haversack (appears as a heavy satchel or toolcase)
-MW dragon pistol
-MW/MW cold iron quarterstaff
-Throwing ax (x2)
Last edited by pathfinderq1; 28th April 2009 at 02:40 AM..
Description: Annie is just above average height- while she looks rather slender, she has a well-toned and wiry physique and is far stronger than she appears. Her hair is slightly wavy, and just past shoulder length- she usually ties it back with a stylish ribbon. She has green eyes, with the sort of sparkle that hints at a bit of elven blood a few generations back in her family tree. Her skin is smooth, with just the faintest hint of a pale gold undertone, like a light suntan. She moves with the unconscious grace of a cat, and the wary focused energy of a natural predator.
Annie prefers to dress in a traditional swashbuckling style- while it might be routine amongst the nobility, on the streets of the city she tends to stand out as a bit of a dandy. She usually prefers knee-high black cuffed boots, loose cut trousers, and a wide-sleeved ruffled shirt under a heavier waistcoat (which covers her lightweight armor). She is rarely seen without a wide-brimmed hat (and doesn’t consider her hat complete without at least one feather), and her usual concession to the cold and foggy weather is a fairly heavy swirling black cloak. She usually has a rapier and a brace of pistols, as well as a number of smaller blades. After a few tough scrapes during her time in the Enforcers, she has begun to wear a heavy spiked glove on her off hand- just in case.
Personality: (Swashbuckler) Annie is an inveterate tomboy. She is very athletic and confident, always up for a challenge or a fight. Physically, she is very capable and competent, and values the same traits in others. She tends to act first and think later, and like many swashbucklers, she prefers to act in a grandiose and flashy manner- but despite her fondness for style and sarcasm, she turns deadly serious when weapons are drawn (As the daughter of a swordmaster, she learned very early that combat is serious business). She has a good heart though, and is far more concerned with right and wrong than many of the self-centered dandies she grew up around- which is one reason why she is far more comfortable among the constabulary than the high nobility. Attractive, graceful, and schooled in a variety of social skills, she can be a valuable ally- but she is still learning good judgment, and the more cerebral aspects of the Investigator’s trade. She also tends to enjoy life to the fullest- whether that means a fine glass of wine, a smooth dance with an elegant partner, or an invigorating chase through the dangerous streets of a goblin-infested slum. She seems to disdain firearms, at least for her own use- she doesn't mind other people using them
History: Annabeth’s father was from a foreign land- no one seems to know exactly which one… He arrived in Paridon about twenty years ago, with his infant daughter and a tragic past which he refused to discuss. He quickly set up shop as a swordmaster to the city’s nobility- while he was not a nobleman himself, his skill and social graces served him in good stead. Annie grew up in her father’s salle, or on the periphery of the nobility. She learned any number of social skills, and the arts of physical defense. As the years went on, however, her father became less and less popular amongst the nobility- the arts of the sword were beginning to give way to the gun, at least amongst the higher social classes. While he still had a few students, life was far less secure than it had been. In time, her father became involved with the city’s constabulary, teaching raw recruits the basics of physical combat. Annie spent most of her teen years acting as her father’s assistant- during that time she picked up a good deal of training in some of the Constable’s trade, and made more than a few useful acquaintances.
Over the last few years, her father’s health began to decline, and his skills as well- the pressures of his past preyed upon his mind ever more heavily, and he began to drown his sorrow in drink. Annie, now an attractive and graceful young woman, parlayed some old connections into the edges of the city’s young nobility. Like her father’s earliest years in the city, she found that she was able to get close to the nobles, but they never really accepted her fully. She might have been content with that, but about a year ago her father completely disappeared, without warning or explanation. Annie spent months looking for him, drawing upon his old connections with the constabulary, but found not a trace. During this time, her acquaintances amongst the constabulary were understanding and supportive, while her so-called ‘friends’ among the minor fringe nobility all but shunned her. By the time she had given up her search, and realized that she would have to fend for herself from now on, she chose to join the constabulary on a formal level. While she began her service in the Enforcement branch, and saw her share of trouble on the streets, her skills and intensity quickly won the notice of recruiters for the Investigators…
Game stats:
STR 12 (+1) (4 pts)
DEX 16 (+3) (8 pts, +1 at 4th level)
CON 12 (+1) (4 pts)
INT 14 (+2) (6 pts)
WIS 8 (-1) (0 pts)
CHA 14 (+2) (6 pts)
((28 total))
Name: Miranda Smythe (AKA Miranda Suvarienne Wentworth-Smythe)
Concept: Fiend-blooded
Race/gender: ‘Human’/ female
Class/level: Rogue/Warlock
Alignment: CN (G)
Height: 5’3”
Weight: 115 lbs
Hair: black
Eyes: green
Age: 21
Description: Miranda Smythe is a young woman of almost startling beauty- just a bit below average height, she has a slender and graceful build. She is quite attractive in a subtly exotic fashion- her skin is smooth and has just the slightest hint of golden undertone, her hair is long, dark and wavy (and often artfully braided), and her glittering green eyes have a uptilted almond shape, just enough to be noticeable. She tends to dress very well, in tailored silks of dark green, gold, and black. She is equally at home in formal skirts or fitted jackets and leggings- though it is rare for her to show any uncovered skin below her neck.
Personality: Miranda is a study in contrasts, on a variety of levels. She seems to mean well, most of the time, but she does have a cruel, vindictive streak about a mile wide. Most of the time, she keeps it in check when dealing with friends or possible allies- at worst, it might be a notable tendency to sarcasm- if she lets it show at all. When dealing with enemies, either real or potential, she is more inclined towards stronger measures… She seems to enjoy her role as a constable, but more because of the challenges and the ability to inflict harm on legally sanctioned targets (i.e.. criminals) than because of the ‘doing good’ or ‘helping people’ side of things. She is deeply interested in arcane and otherworldly matters, but seems to hold wizards (and other spellcasters who rely on books or equipment) in low regard. She has the polish and manners of a noblewoman, when she needs them, but seems to regard actual nobility with something between scorn and pity- though she can mask this well enough. Indeed, her voice, her looks, and her social grace can easily mask her real intent- until far too late. While she realizes that her continuing progress in her studies draw upon dark powers, she is confident that she can master that darkness...
History: The Wentworth family was one of the oldest noble families in Paridon, until about two years ago… Over the years, the family had produced a number of noted arcanists, poets, and beauties (of both genders)- physical attractiveness and a minor magical talent seemed to be common. Of course, they had also produced a number of particularly well-known madmen. What no one outside the family knew was that their success was powered by an ancient bargain with dark and otherworldly beings- it was their essence which infused the family line with its most notable traits. Even generation or so, one of the family’s daughters would die ‘in childbirth’- luckily most of their offspring died as well, or carried only a mild taint. Miranda’s mother was one of the unlucky ones, and Miranda herself was born with many of the family’s ancestral ‘gifts’- she was very attractive, and even from an early age she seemed to have a measure of arcane talent. As she grew, though, she was tormented by the darkest of nightmares, and despite her interest, she seemed unable to master even the simplest arcane rituals… She was an excellent student, and very curious- perhaps too much so. On the day of her seventeenth birthday, when society formally counted her an adult, she left her family’s mansion for good- no one in the house would say why, nor would Miranda, but on that day her life among the nobility was over, ended for ever. After a few fitful months, she was recruited by the constabulary and joined the Infiltrators- her knowledge of arcane and social matters made her a natural for such demanding work. But that career opened many avenues she would never have known as a noblewoman, and the temptations were more than she could bear. She began to put her new resources to use, and delved into the mysteries of her heritage and her ‘gifts’. On the same night that she discovered for herself just what kind of powers had ‘protected’ her family through the years, a massive fire engulfed the family mansion- who can say if these events were connected. Whatever the cause, the blaze wiped out the entirety of the family manor, and (presumably) everyone within. Investigators working the scene found untold horrors within the wreckage, and the city’s other noble families exerted considerable social pressure to suppress any sort of disclosure- within a month, everyone in the city knew that the Wentworths had been involved in dark and evil practices, and that the other nobility had enacted justice. The family name was stricken from the rolls of the nobility, and their old titles and properties were portioned out- a year later it was almost as if they had never existed, except in whispers and nightmares. Miranda, now living under her mother’s maiden name, had come to terms with her dark heritage, and had delved ever deeper into her arcane studies. In time, she applied to transfer to the Investigative branch of the constabulary, and earned admittance to the Rose Company…
Game stats:
STR 10 (+0) (2 pts)
DEX 14 (+2) (6 pts)
CON 12 (+1) (4 pts)
INT 14 (+2) (6 pts)
WIS 8 (-1) (0 pts)
CHA 17 (+3) (10 pts, +1 at level 4)
((28 total))
Guns are exotic weapons. This is a balance issue above anything; comparing the damage and hand utility between a dragon pistol and a light crossbow shows the importance of this.
I'll allow Rapid Reload and Crossbow Sniper to be used with guns.
Theroc, if you're looking for a gun-focused ranger without spells, you are probably better off with a fighter. An Elf Fighter 5 can have the following:
A Fighter 4/Rogue 1 could swap out the WS with Sniper, for the additional range on sneak attacks. A ranger, on the other hand, would have the following:
Note that a human fighter can have BOTH WS and Sniper.
For everyone: I'm pretty much at my limit for extra rules, so I'm afraid I won't be able to accept any additional rules beyond d20SRD + Complete Series + PHBII + Guns. Please design accordingly. I believe all the other characters so far use only these rulesets--when they were first made, I disallowed Complete and PHBII, even (Calahan was a later addition).
Thanks for the reply IVV. I was being nerdy/nosy and reading the OOC thread for the previous game(originally hoping to find the second portion of the original thread, as it seemed to cut off abruptly around the 43rd page, and wanted to know what happened after the climactic battle that hadn't seemed completely over yet), and noticed your ruling on guns then;
Quote:
Everyone:
Regarding firearms: We'll use Monte Cook's rules. All firearms are going to be treated as exotic weapons. The available weapons are: Dragon Pistol, Sting, Double Pistol, Dragon Rifle. The Dragon Rifle takes a full round to reload, and all firearms require two hands (of which one or both may hold the firearm) to reload. The Powder Bomb and Smoke Bomb are available, and can be thrown as any alchemical weapon (alchemist's fire, etc.)
Does this still apply? I had been looking at other things in Monte Cook's rules, so I wanted to make sure I'm not adding additional headache if this is still how you'd like it.
Aside from that, I'll be tweaking my character a bit to fit better. Not sure exactly what I'll do yet regarding the mechanics of the character. History will stay as it is for the most part, though I believe I may flesh it out more to give you more material to work with.
Accessible at almost any time: http://www.d20srd.org/index.htm
Complete Arcane
Complete Scoundrel
Complete Mage
Complete Divine
Libre Mortis
Heroes of Horror
Drow of the Underdark
Monster Manual 3.5E
Monster Manual 2
DMG/PHB
Psionics Handbook
Expanded Psionics Handbook
Spell Compendium
Tome of Magic
These I can access rarely:
Complete Adventurer
Complete Warrior
Complete Psionic
Races of Stone
Draconomicon
Complete Champion
A few assorted Monstrous Manuals... I can't recall which ones.
I MAY be able to access the Forgotten Realms and Eberron Campaign settings.
Last edited by Theroc; 27th April 2009 at 04:44 AM..
More seriously, because you're members of the constabulary, your ability to requisition equipment covers most of that need. The 9,000 gp starting gold is a quick representation of what can be reasonably acquired. Furthermore, you'll find that your successes will quickly translate into added social status in Paridon--and that status is priceless. As an example, Fr. Berman's new pistols came from somebody. Ru's history kept showing up. (Even throwaway details can prove important later in the game. And, thanks to the forum format, I can remember these details.) In an ever-connected city like Paridon, reputations travel far.
Linear Mode
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