A Shadow Looms — OOC

[ratwizard]

Hook

It is the 169th year of 3rd Era, Brennis. Vizidel is in shambles.The attack, assault, outbreak - whatever it was - had been instantaneous. One moment, the city simply existed; the citizens worked their crafts and the streets were filled with life. Trade, laughter, and discussion filled the streets of Vizidel as the people basked in the warm early-summer sun. Many took pleasure in the cool, marine breezes floating softly through the air. The poor sought shade in their decrepit bungalows while the rich sat in their manors, amongst fine foods and servants.

As sudden as an ambush, they came. You aren't sure if they erupted from the ground, came from buried graves of fallen citizens, or simply materialzed from unholy magic into thin air, but they came in droves. Within minutes, the strange, undead, and humanoid creatures had spread over the surface of the city, attacking people and goring them with their gaping mouths and sharp, raking fingernails. Their numbers seemed to swell and rise throughout the day as they conquered more of the city, clearly adding the living -- and now dead -- to their rank.

You found yourselves cornered into the last place that wasn't inhabited by the creatures, tucked away in the historic Calepha district of Vizidel, a region mostly for minor trade caravels and middle-class housing. The several of you retreated into the Gilded Mare, a local favorite known for being decently-staffed as well as sizeable.

The first nights at the inn were horrors almost beyond the first. Spurred by a pair of dunces, the creatures assaulted the Mare and were barely held back by the survivors. Many of you have been bitten and maimed, saved from infection only by careful hands and helpful supplies. In the following days, new survivors showed their faces and the many hands allowed for supples to be hauled. It has been several days now -- a fortnight, you think -- and the Gilded Mare is starting to feel 'safe' for once. Improvised defenses, armor, and weapons have been passed out. The nearly two-dozen of you have enough supplies to last for several weeks, and the clearing-out of nearby establishments is netting you enough to sustain yourselves.

It is time to return to the city's depths. You must push on beyond the Gilded Mare. Have others survived? What of the Royal Family? Is Maddris still patrolling the north? You have many questions, and few answers.

Setting and Lore

Situated on the southern coast of Brennis is its capital Vizidel, where the story begins. Brennis has long been a dominating force in Forelle, wresting control of the seas with a strong economy and a powerful navy.

Vizidel itself is nothing short of a wonder. One of the most impressive cities in the archipelago, merchants come and go from many walks of life and areas of the world. Vizidel's bustling ports are no stranger to a myriad of sailors, sellswords, and sex workers, amongst more noble of folk such as priests, traveling entertainers, and emissaries of foreign civilizations.

Details Between Chapters

This will pick up the campaign, jumping forward in time several days. In that time, multiple things have happened. Most notable, the Gilded Mare is relatively stable supplies-wise. You will not have to focus on gathering food or anything in that regard. In addition, in the several close trips you have made in that time, more tools and equipment were either found or crafted by the survivors. The windows and door have been fortified. In addition, the survivors made it to the All-Seeing Eye to find it ransacked by looters. Marcus' legion armor was locked tight in his private office, however. A full list of changes (including things pilfered during last Act) is here:

Code: Select all

-- Supplies/Food to last for several weeks
-- Half-cord of wood
-- Ancestral Shield (+2 AC)
-- Marcus Plate Armor
-- 3 Hide Shields (+1 AC)
-- 3 Leather Armors
-- 1 Hide Armor
-- 6 Daggers
-- 7 Quarterstaves
-- 12 Clubs
-- Hacksaw (for construction)
        -- Barrable window-guards on all first floor windows
        -- Front double-door fortified with extra wood
        -- Roof-hatch latch fixed
-- Leatherworking Kit (Stretch rod, hand tools)
-- 4 Footpads (made of dense cloth, for sneaking)
-- Many candles
-- Cooking/dining utensils
-- 2 spools of twine
-- Large beaker of healing salve
-- Several rolls of clean linen for bandages

Character Creation Information

The survivors represent members from a variety of walks of life. Whether a merchant in the ports to sell your wares, a sellsword to guide and protect nobles or paranoid folk in the rough city, a sailor from one of the busy ships, a priest spreading his religion from foreign lands, or a con-man looking to make a quick steal, your being here was fated. You do not know why this chaos is happening, but one thing is crystal clear. In order to survive, you must band together and protect each other, lest you will all perish grisly, terrifying, and bloody deaths.

Character Creation Rules
System: 4e
Level 3
Stats: 25pt buy.
Race: Any published, refluffed as human, orc, elven or dwarven.
Class: Any published.
Feats: Free expertise feat.
Themes: Allowed.
Background: +2 to a skill or add a language.
Equipment: Up to 35 gp worth of mundane weapons, armor, items, equipment that your character has managed to pick up in the several days since the reckoning. Returning PCs may equip themselves with anything the party has obtained since the beginning.
Skills: There are no class skill restrictions; any class can train any skill. You still must take the mandatory/bonus skills granted by your class as usual (e.g. Arcana for a wizard).
Rituals: Component costs for all rituals are reduced to ¼ their normal values to encourage ritual use. Also, Raise Dead will not be allowed in this game – dead is dead, though we hope that doesn’t have to be an issue.
Inherent Bonuses: Yes.
Languages: Knowing Brennisian is a requirement. Extra languages? Pick from the list below.

Languages

[SHOW]

Brennisian – The native language of Brennis. Everybody will use this as a default language. Brennisian is not well-known outside of the island.

Common – Common is a developing lingua franca in this world. Typically, the people who know Common are sailors or traders. It stems from Serran roots but is distinctly different at this point in time.

Tulrissian – The national language of Tulrisse, a primarily human agricultural-based kingdom.

Serran – The primary language spoken by the many small kingdoms of an expansive arid region known as the Serran Desert, which consist mostly of humans and orcs.

Imardanian – The national language of the monotheistic Imardin Thalassocracy, a very diverse nation. However, humans still make up the majority.

Kurnish – The language of the orc tribes of Kurnhuelde, a region primarily consisting of snowy hills on the Kurn Peninsula.

Dwarven – The common language of the many dwarf kingdoms that occupy the mountains that run down the center of Voreld.

Elven – A catch-all term in Voreld for any of the many distinct dialects spoken by the elf natives of Quellam, a continent to the east.

Map

[SHOW]

[ratwizard]

The Survivors

Marcus
-- An ex-soldier who runs the All-Seeing Eye as a private investigator. Cold, calculating demeanor. Marcus is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Redros
-- A hunter who sells his catches within Vizidel. Independent and motivated. Redros is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Elene
-- A preteen girl who runs the streets of Vizidel. Curious and petty. Elene is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Tomas
-- A young boy who was part of the traveling circus. Happy-go-lucky and gifted. He was found in an abandoned house in the Calepha District, hiding for over a day.

Bastia
-- A young woman who has a distressed past. Sly and alluring. Bastia is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Guthrik
-- An older orcish traveler from Serranak. Wizened and generous. Guthrik was found in an alley, knocked unconscious by muggers.

Burtin
-- A retired laborer from the city. Good-natured and hard-working. Burtin is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Drozga
-- The owner and keeper of the Gilded Mare. Uptight and ornery. Drozga is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Smock
-- A lanky burglar that has had little success. Bitter and tends to mouth-off. Partner to Weasel. Smock tried to hold up the survivors but was forced into co-operation when the creatures attacked.

Weasel
-- A chubby thief who hasn't had much luck. Instinctive and chatty. Partner to Smock. Weasel tried to hold up the survivors but was forced into co-operation when the creatures attacked.

Rorsi
-- A drunkard and usual patron of the Mare. Flighty and paranoid. Rorsi is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Isdren
-- A teenaged boy whose father is missing. Son to Jozanta and brother to Bessia. Has guts and a good sword-arm. Isdren is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Jozanta
-- A middle-aged mother to a decent family. Mother to Isdren and Bessia. Anxious and eager to help where she can. Jozanta is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Bessia
-- The youngest member of the survivors. Sister to Isdren and Daughter to Jozanta. Sweet and overly-trusting. Bessia is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Mathilda
-- The bartender and maid of the Mare. Engaging personality, a bit sarcastic, but easy to talk to. Mathilda is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Mahren
-- A gifted leatherworker and tanner from Serranak. Not afraid to defend himself. Mahren was found in his shop and recruited in exchange for his work.

Liviana
-- The princess of Brennis. Graceful and determined. Liviana is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Cassia
-- A captain of the Vizidel Watch. Gritty and prepared to defend her people. Cassia is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Athena
-- An escort that frequented the area. Agile and ambitious. Athena is part of the original survivors of the Gilded Mare.

Tobias
-- A self-claimed hobo who found himself in Vizidel. Polite to a fault. Tobias was found by the survivors while out on a supply run.

Presius
-- A destructive man who put his own family to death to save them from worse. Solemn and meditative. Presius was found by the survivors while out on a supply run.

[Scratcherclaw]

Leonidas Calvus, the Cat Burglar Casanova

Cat Appearance

[SHOW]

Ten-Minute Background

[SHOW]

Background and Concept Elements

[SHOW]

Appearance: Leonidas is a young man of twenty-two summers upon Ganoltir. He has short sandy blonde hair, swooped in a wave like those across the Brennisian shore. He stands at 5'10", fairly thin though relatively toned for his build. He complexion is mildly bronzed, owing to the Brennisian sun and his own lineage. He gazes upon the world with an auburn visage. His face is youthful and boyishly handsome, shaped by a chiseled jawline, courtesy of his father.

Personality: If Leonidas were to describe himself in one word, it would be charming. He lives to woo those around him with his words, often saying whatever necessary to achieve his own goals and desires. Despite his upbringing of wealth, he is not as arrogant as many would expect, likely owed to many looking down on his Gleiosian-heritage. An impulsive man, Leo rarely thinks of the consequences prior to taking actions. Though not entirely selfish, he is largely concerned with his own wellbeing ahead of that of others.

Early Life: Leo was born in Vizidel to Livius Calvus, a renowned patrician and tailor, and his Gleiosian wife Andromeda. Though independently wealthy, many in Vizidel's upper ranks looked down upon Livius for marrying their ancient enemy, and by extension looked down upon the newborn Leo. Not all viewed the Calvus family in such a way, though, and Leo had a fairly enjoyable upbringing. He became close friends with another child, Livia Dalcius, and spent their days playing within their families' villas.

When Leo was about five years old age, his family took in a cat from the streets, and he developed a particularly strong bond with it. The cat, which he named Tonno, seemed to understand him in a peculiar way. His parents initially thought nothing of it, thinking it simply a child's special bond with his pet. This changed one evening while Leo was playing with Livia, Livia pretending to be a gladiator while Leo was the lion. Several minutes into the "coliseum battle," Leo felt a strange tingling sensation, followed by Livia screaming. He tried to speak, but only a faint meow passed his lips.

A moment later, the sensation returned and he was human once-more. Though unaware of what had happened, Livia explained it to him. When his parents learned of this, his mother claimed it was a gift from Krymos, one that had shown itself in her family every few generations. With time, he learned to control this gift, able to change forms at will.

All That Glitters: As Leonidas grew older, he began to develop a penchant for jewelry and other shiny valuable, whether a side effect from his cat-form or something else. Still young, he had little choice but to take them from his mother. Hardly much of a stealthy child, she quickly found out much of her jewels were missing and discovered them in his bedroom. A harsh scolding and heart-to-heart talk discouraged him, at least for a time.

Once in his teens, with the freedom to travel the city by himself, the old habit reared its head. This time, however, he realized his cat form would be useful. Few would think anything of a cat sneaking about the markets, after all. His first theft was a simple pendant with the symbol of Elphabus upon it, a necklace he has kept to this day.

Fine Wines and Fake Lines: While he entered his late teens, he grew more distant with his parents. His father engrossed in the family business, and his mother frequently traveling to Gleios to care for her ailing mother. As a result, Leo was largely left to his own devices. Seeking new excitement, he began attending parties and balls frequented by the rest of Vizidel's high society. Though initially awkward and nervous, he grew more charming with time. Soon, he was on the road to wooing women.

He soon discovered these socialites were an easy route towards the jewelry he sought after. Many nights, he would take a woman home, and to bed, and make off into the night with a necklace or earring. He considered it a keepsake for each conquest. However, he soon recognized older women had even more material wealth to swipe. Not eager to woo them, he turned to his cat-form and posed as a stray in the wealthy districts. The generous residents often invited him into their homes, where he'd make off with his spoils later in the night.

Despite his parental neglect, he finally felt free to be himself. He found himself growing into a young adult he was happy to be, free from his parents' influence. And through late nights and lots of wine, he improved his charm and lived it up.

Merely Players: In recent years, Leo had grown somewhat tired of attending social events each and every night. He craved for a new kind of excitement and challenge. One morning while strolling through the city, he found it. the Il Capitano Theater had a notice for auditions posted upon its doors, for a comedy about Ancient Brennis' conquests. Eager for a new thrill, he set foot on the stage and landed a role as Brennisian Soldier #1. Though a minor role, he had some speaking parts and found himself a new home upon the stage.

Though still partaking in his thievery, acting has helped curb his impulse while still allowing his charm and lies to flourish. Both on stage and off, he's found his role to play. After all, a famed Tulrissian playwright once posited: All the world's a stage.

Goals

[SHOW]

1) Leo would like to make a name for himself apart from his family's reputation.

2) I'd like to have Leo learn to use his ability for good rather than selfish reasons.

Secrets

[SHOW]

1) Leo has the ability to turn into a cat, and uses this ability (and his charm) to steal jewelry from young and old women alike.

2) Demetria Havius, a middle-aged socialite and victim of Leo's thievery, saw him turn into a human from his cat form. She has kept this to herself until she can prove it, lest she appear as crazy.

People Tied to Leo

[SHOW]

1) Livia Dalcius is a close friend of Leo's, likely the closest genuine friend he actually has. She is the daughter of another patrician, and one with close ties to his own family. From an early age, Leo was intended to marry Livia when they came of age, though certain circumstances resulted in them remaining friends. They've stuck together through all the years, and there are few Leo can trust more than she. She disapproves of his thievery and has tried to get him to stop, but has largely conceded defeat at this point.

2) Pavius Rhodes, true to his name, builds roads for a living. Though a commoner, and generally out of Leo's social circle, the two struck an odd friendship while Pavius was repaving a street near Villa Calvus. Leo, walking by, had noticed a peculiarly shiny object half-buried within the dirt. He asked Pavius to retrieve it, explaining he was a collector of historical objects, and the paver obliged. Since then, Pavius has collected all the rarities he's uncovered to give to Leo. Leo, as a result, is very grateful.

3) Calixtus Marius is the son of Parnus Marius, one of Vizidel's most renowned and skilled jewelers. Leo initially met Calixtus at a ball, and the two were initially quite chummy. Calixtus mentioned his father's business and Leo was ever-eager to examine his father's work, and potentially swipe some for his collection. The friendly behavior ended when Leo finally introduced himself, and Calixtus knew of his family. Harboring a harsh hatred for Gleiosians, the mood turned sour and the two have been at odds ever since.

Memories, Mannerisms, and Quirks

[SHOW]

1) Leo is somewhat of a kleptomaniac, particularly with jewelry and other valuables. He never intends to sell his plunders, instead keeping a collection of his most prized pieces.

2) Leo has the ability to turn into a cat, a power he discovered he had from a young age. He uses this ability most often to get into places he wouldn't normally be able to get into, especially if jewelry is on the line.

3) He vividly remembers a Gleoisian lullaby his mother used to sing him when he was scared as a child, typically during monsoon season storms. Even as an adult, he thinks of the song to calm himself when fear takes hold.

Background - Family/Class/Profession/Institutions

[SHOW]

Family: Leo is an only child, born to Brennisian patrician Livius Calvus and Gleiosian immigrant Andromeda. Both his parents are alive and well, but generally do not make time for him anymore.

Class: Leo is the son of a patrician within Vizidel and has thus been raised in the luxury of wealth and status.

Profession: Leo is somewhat of a socialite, attending balls and schmoozing with the rest of Vizidel's high society. Beyond this, he is somewhat of a cat burglar, both figuratively and literally. On occasion, he has also dabbled in being an actor.

Institutions: Leo has been known to frequent events put on by the High Society of Brennis Club, though he hardly considers himself pretentious enough to be a member. He has occasionally been a performing member of the renowned Il Capitano theater.

Drives - Primary/Secondary/Tertiary

[SHOW]

Primary: Impulse: Not one for planning, Leo is taken highly by impulse: acting in the moment without much second thought for consequences. This ties hand-in-hand with his kleptomania.

Secondary: Excitement: Leo lives for thrills and excitement as a way to liven up the mundane everyday existence in Vizidel. He wants to make the most out of life, and will seek fun to do so.

Tertiary: Wealth: Though already quite wealthy, a patrician family always seeks out more wealth so they might have more political influence.

Goals - Short-Term/Medium-Term/Long-Term

[SHOW]

Short-Term: Leo has an upcoming audition for another stage production, a play that was his favorite as a child. He hopes to land the lead role.

Medium-Term: He'd like to make a reputation for himself free from that of his family's own.

Long-Term: Leo would like to travel the world so he might find more exotic pieces, and exotic people, to liven up his life with.

Crew Relations

[SHOW]

Aurelius: Leo sees right through Aurelius' facade, having known his type before. Though he admires Aurelius' desire to put others before himself, as a good watchman does, he finds the boy naive at best.

Einkill: Leonidas cares little for his pious nature, particularly with an utterly foreign pantheon than Brennis' own. Additionally, he cares little for the man's honorable ways. Honor is for heroes and the dead, Leo posits.

Varon: Leo respects Varon's generally dependable nature, despite his quiet demeanor. Given his willingness to take orders, Leo also considers Varon a bit of a pushover and wonders how he might take advantage of that.

Character Sheet

[SHOW]

Leonidas Calvus, level 3
Hengeyokai, Rogue
Rogue Tactics: Artful Dodger
Rogue: Rogue Weapon Talent
Select Animal Form: Cat (Acrobatics)
Background: Occupation - Criminal (+2 to Stealth)
Theme: Son of Alagondar

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 12, Con 12, Dex 20, Int 8, Wis 10, Cha 16.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 12, Con 12, Dex 18, Int 8, Wis 10, Cha 14.

AC: 18 Fort: 12 Reflex: 18 Will: 14
HP: 34 Surges: 7 Surge Value: 8

TRAINED SKILLS
Stealth +13 (+1 from footpads), Thievery +11, Diplomacy +9, Streetwise +9, Acrobatics +13, Bluff +11

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Arcana, Dungeoneering +1, Endurance +2, Heal +1, History, Insight +1, Intimidate +4, Nature +1, Perception +1, Religion, Athletics +2

FEATS
Feat User Choice: Light Blade Expertise
Level 1: Backstabber
Level 2: Nimble Blade

POWERS
Rogue at-will 1: Piercing Strike
Rogue at-will 1: Sky Flourish
Rogue encounter 1: Dazing Strike
Rogue daily 1: Spinning Blade Leap
Rogue utility 2: Sneak in the Attack
Rogue encounter 3: Low Slash

ITEMS

Equipped Items

[SHOW]

Code: Select all

Main Hand: Dagger
Offhand:   ---
Body:      Leather Armor

Head:      ---
Neck:      ---
Arms:      ---
Hands:     ---
Waist:     ---
Feet:      Footpads
Symbol:    ---
Ki Focus:  ---
Ring:      ---
Ring:      ---
Tattoo:    ---

Boon:      ---

Backpack

[SHOW]

* Crowbar

All Items

[SHOW]

Dagger, Leather Armor, Backpack (empty), Footpads, Crowbar

Combat Block

[SHOW]

Leo Calvus

Male Hengeyokai Rogue 3
Languages: Brennisian, Gleiosian
Age: 22
Height: 5'10"
Weight: 160 lbs.

Speed: 7
Climb Speed (as cat): 7
Initiative: +6
Passive Perception: 11
Passive Insight: 11
Senses: Low-light Vision

AC: 18
Fort: 12
Reflex: 18
Will: 14
HP: 34/34
Bloodied: 17
Surge Value: 8
Surges left: 7/7
Action Points: 1

MBA: +8 vs AC, 1d4+2 damage (+2d8 once per turn w/ Sneak Attack; +1 to attack & damage with CA)
RBA: +12 vs AC, 1d4+6 damage (+2d8 once per turn w/ Sneak Attack; +1 to attack & damage with CA)

Resistances: None

Vulnerabilities: None

Saves:
+2 vs immobilized, restrained, & slowed

Active Effects:
+2 to escape grabs
+5 to bluff vs insight to hide my true nature

Powers:

Sky Flourish
Piercing Strike
Nature's Mask

---

Second Wind []
Low Blow []
Dazing Strike []
Slow Slash []
Sneak in the Attack [_]

---

Spinning Blade Leap [_]

Consumables:

None.

Important Features:

[SHOW]

Class

First Strike: At the start of an encounter, you have combat advantage against any creatures that have not yet acted in that encounter.

Artful Dodger: You gain a bonus to AC equal to your Charisma modifier (+3) against opportunity attacks.

Rogue Weapon Talent: When you wield a shuriken, your weapon damage die increases by one size. When you wield a dagger, you gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls.

Sneak Attack: When you make an attack with a light blade, a hand crossbow, a shortbow, or a sling and hit an enemy granting a combat advantage to you, that enemy takes extra damage based on your level. You can deal with extra damage only once per turn.

Racial

Beast Nature: You are considered both a magical beast and a humanoid for the purpose of effects that relate to creature type.

Elusive: You have a +2 racial bonus to checks made to escape a grab and to saving throws against effects that immobilize, restrain, or slow you.

Fey Origin: You are considered a fey creature for the purpose of effects that relate to creature origin.

Language of Beasts: While you are in animal form, you can communicate with felines. In human form, you can understand them but cannot directly communicate with them.

Shapechanger: You are subject to effects and conditions that affect shapechangers.

Theme

Son of Alagondar: While you flank an enemy, your allies gain a +1 power bonus to attack rolls against that enemy.

Feats

Light Blade Expertise: You gain a +1 feat bonus to weapon attack rolls that you make with a light blade. In addition, you gain a +1 bonus to damage rolls of weapon attacks that you make with a light blade against creatures granting combat advantage to you. Both of these bonuses increase to +2 at 11th level and +3 at 21st level.

Backstabber: The extra damage dice from your Sneak Attack class feature increase from d6s to d8s.

Nimble Blade: When you attack with a light blade and you have combat advantage, you gain a +1 bonus to attack rolls.

[Fialova]

Marcus Aemilianus, or the Masked Man

Original Artwork Here

Appearance

[SHOW]

Old Soldier Armor

[SHOW]

Marcus stands nearly 6 foot tall and has an athletic build with brown hair. As a solider and younger he was always clean-shaven, but life on the streets has given him an appreciation for wearing a beard that he didn't used to have, and he now keeps one at all times. Perhaps his most noticeable feature is that he is missing his left eye, and wears a sash as a makeshift eye patch at all times.

Marcus has never been one for pleasantries. Spending years on the street made him appreciate living a simple life, and so he always dresses plainly in his everyday life now. Not in rags of course, but he doesn't try to appear wealthy like many of the others in the middling class, instead sticking to basic outer wear and a lack of any accenting things such as jewelry. Of course, this is all primarily a ruse, as Marcus has great respect for wealth and power and one day desires both in great quantities.

Personality

[SHOW]

Marcus' personality is almost entirely that of a classic psychopath, though he is capable of experiencing some emotion. He is somewhat torn between his desire for wealth and power, and his somewhat lesser (but still relevant) desire for companionship.

Like most soldiers, Marcus is also greatly respectful of the Thunder God Aradamus, and fancies himself a follower in his footsteps, bound for greatness.

Background

[SHOW]

WANTED: DEAD OR ALIVE

NAME: Unknown
ALIAS: The Masked Man

This man is wanted for countless crimes against the kingdom, among them burglary, theft, murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and high treason.

His true identity is unknown, but he is unmistakable in that he is always found wearing an expressionless masked helmet (who some report is, itself, stolen). Estimates put him around 6 foot tall and 200 pounds, slim and agile.

Should anyone catch this heinous criminal, the reward will be no less than 2000 gold coins and the gratitude of the crown.

Ten-Minute Background

[SHOW]

Background and Concept Elements

[SHOW]

Early Life: Marcus was born a commoner to a peasant family in a small and insignificant village in Brennis. As a boy he was made to work the fields around or do other odd jobs around the village, just as all the other boys were made to do. When he came of age he joined the Brenissian army, again just like the other boys.

The Army: There was always a war going on somewhere during Marcus' enlistment, so there was never a dull day for the young soldier. He enjoyed the training and sparring that came with being a soldier, and he took a special sort of joy in killing his opponents when he got to participate in battle. What he didn't enjoy was being injured, and understandably so. Most of the time he was good at avoiding injury, but in one battle he was caught by an arrow that managed to take out his left eye. After that day he lost his love for battle, and shortly afterwards he deserted.

Homeless: As a deserter Marcus was a wanted man, and as such had no real way to return to his home. Instead he found his way to the city of Vizidel with some refugees, pretending to simply be an unfortunate civilian casualty of war. With no history to rely on, Marcus had to make do as a penniless beggar, living off whatever he could find and taking what few jobs people would offer the deformed man.

A Life of Crime: As time went on, Marcus grew knowledgeable of the streets and side streets of Vizidel, as well as its inhabitants. As a homeless man he had a lot of time to observe the day to day lives of many people, and he began to notice trends. These trends gave way to opportunities, opportunities that Marcus learned to exploit, and a life and love of crime began.

He began to burgle houses as they were empty, and pilfer the pockets of the unwary. He even, on occasion, would murder for other 'low-lives' if the price was right. He was never caught. He learned early on that even the best plans could go wrong, so he took to committing his crimes while wearing one of the first items he had stolen - an intricately carved steal helmet. The few people that spotted him fleeing the scene of a crime came to refer to him as 'the Masked Man' and in time the name became well-known throughout the city.

Two-Faced: Recognizing that a life of crime with no base of operation was not going to cut it for long, Marcus began to think of a front for his operation while looking for a place to live. In the quiet Calepha district he found just what he was looking for, an old store-front that had fallen into disuse. Using some of his ill-gotten gains, he purchased the store and fixed it up.

Within a few months, Marcus opened the 'All-seeing Eye,' a private investigation firm. The idea was that Marcus would commit crimes, and then advertise his services near the homes of his victims. If hired, he would then use the stolen goods to setup an elaborate case ultimately pointing to some poor, unknown wastrel. If not hired, he would fence the goods. Either way he made a profit.

It has been years since the 'All-seeing Eye,' opened, and Marcus has so far made quite a name for himself. However, the Masked Man has still never been caught despite numerous attempts. To most, the two men are arch nemeses, with the latter always barely out-smarting the former. Little do they know that the two are one and the same person.

Goals

[SHOW]

1) Marcus wants to amass substantial wealth, and eventually become a major player in Vizidel politics.

2) I would like Marcus to achieve a position of leadership, whether that be as the head of the survivors or something else.

Secrets

[SHOW]

1) Unbeknownst to the people of Vizidel, the 'Masked Man' and Marcus the PI are one and the same person. The people of the Caphela district would likely be shocked and appalled to find that one of their most trusted investigators is also one of their most notorious criminals.

2) There are people in Vizidel who know of Marcus' past as a deserter, and have not said anything due to the service his PI firm provides for the city.

2a) One of the people in Vizidel who knows of Marcus' past is the man who removed his eye, an ex-comrade in battle who tried to kill Marcus in the confusion but only managed to graze his head. You (grom) are free to pick the reasons he had for hating Marcus, as I would like it to be a surprise if (when?) he ever shows up in game.

People Tied to Marcus

[SHOW]

1) Mathilda, the barmaid - Marcus is a regular at the Guilded Mare, and Mathilda is one of the barmaids. She is a bit sarcastic and kind of plain-looking, but the two seem to always be dancing around mild attraction to one another.

2) Garth, the urchin - Though he is now a more respected member of society, Marcus remembers what it is like to live on the streets and tends to be fairly generous to the peasants he comes across. Garth is an orphan boy he is especially fond of, and the man tosses him a coin or two every so often for food. They rarely talk, but they know one another.

3) Liza, the guardswoman - Many of the guards in the Caphela district know and respect Marcus for his work, but Liza is not among them. She thinks he is a fool, and sees his inability to catch the Masked Man as proof that he is not nearly as good of an investigator as he claims to be.

4) Lord and Lady Winthrop - Lord Winthrop is a wealthy merchant in Vizidel, and Lady Winthrop is his incredibly particular wife. They were some of Marcus' very first 'clients' as a PI, and helped to spread the word of his skills when he was just getting his feet off the ground. They rarely acknowledge him in public, but anytime one of their friends has an issue they are quick to direct them to Marcus. He makes sure these issues are fairly common.

Memories, Mannerisms, and Quirks

[SHOW]

1) The battle that took Marcus' eye constantly haunts him, both while awake and asleep. He is rarely affected by his murder victims, but the sudden loss of sight that accompanied that fateful arrow has stayed with him forever.

2) With no peripheral vision on his left side, Marcus often has to turn his head to the left to see what is happening. Sometimes it happens purely out of habit, sort of like a tick.

3) Despite it leaving him permanently deformed and causing a massive shift in his life, Marcus still greatly appreciates the Brennis military and its history and memorabilia. He has a small collection in his house of armors and weapons from different time periods, things he has slowly acquired from his victims over time.

Background - Family/Class/Profession/Institutions

[SHOW]

Family: Marcus had many siblings and extended family members in the village he grew up and and other nearby villages. However, he has not had any contact with them since he enlisted in the army, nor would he even really know what they look like. For all intents in purposes, he no longer has a family.

Class: Marcus is of a middling class in Vizidel. He lives in a decent area, but his place is nothing fancy. It is much better than what he used to have, that much is certain.

Profession: Officially, Marcus works as a private investigator. Unofficially, he is an ex-solider and a career criminal.

Institutions: Marcus owns the All-Seeing Eye private investigation firm. Due to the nature of his work, he also has some close ties to the city guard of Vizidel.

Drives - Primary/Secondary/Tertiary

[SHOW]

Primary: Wealth and Power. Marcus' ultimate goal is to be a prominent person in Vizidel, and he plans to achieve this through any means necessary.

Secondary: Fear. The constant looming fear of being discovered, both as a deserter and as a wanted criminal, forever hangs over Marcus' head and keeps him cautious and wary of getting too close to people.

Tertiary: Love. Despite his fear of getting close, Marcus does hold out hope that one day he will find a woman to settle down with. It is the reason why he is as close as he is with Mathilda, even if that is still far from becoming anything substantial.

Goals - Short-Term/Medium-Term/Long-Term

[SHOW]

Short-Term: There is a man named Bill the Toad, an odd and slimy little man who has been encroaching on Marcus' territory in recent weeks. The next job he plans will be to frame Bill and hopefully get him put behind bars for awhile.

Medium-Term: Garth has some connections throughout the city that Marcus plans to eventually make use of to expand further from the Caphela district. He hopes to eventually have enough high end clients that he can move the All-Seeing Eye to a better location, with a closer proximity to more valuable targets.

Long-Term: It may takes years, or even decades, but Marcus would like to eventually become some form of nobility, or perhaps even gain a position as an officer in the city guard. Wealth alone is not enough without the power to use it properly.

NPC Wishlist

[SHOW]

[sblock3=Marcus Nemesis]The man who took Marcus' eye, and hates him. I left the details of his life for you (grom) to decide in an early section of the bakground, so for now I have nothing really.[/sblock3]
[sblock3=Professor Mortimer]A renowned academic in Vizidel, who teaches at the finest academy in the city. He is knowledgeable on a vast array of subjects, but is incredibly difficult to get along with.
http://fc04.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2014/ ... 7cwvi5.jpg[/sblock3]
[sblock3=Lady Winthrop]One of Marcus' first clients, and a very particular noblewoman with exotic tastes. Her husband can be dead or not, I don't really care.
http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs70/f/2011/ ... 4et6ir.jpg[/sblock3]
[sblock3=Carmen]A street performer who travels with a caravan of other performers throughout Forelle. Her primary talent is fire breathing, though she can also swallow swords and juggle a bit.
http://adrian-w.deviantart.com/art/Fire ... -321478047[/sblock3]
[sblock3=Hodor]Hodor
http://fc03.deviantart.net/fs71/i/2013/ ... 6dqm2m.jpg[/sblock3]
[sblock3=Nancy LePoup]A visiting dignitary from Imardin. He mostly deals with imports and exports, and was visiting Vizidel to work out a new trade agreement. He hates his name but is too proud to change it, and by extension harbors a lot of animosity towards his parents.
http://kir-tat.deviantart.com/art/Rheyn-167502318[/sblock3]

Character Sheet

[SHOW]

Marcus 'the Masked Man' Aemilianus, level 3
Human, Blackguard
Human Power Selection: Bonus At-Will Power
Background: Occupation - Military (+2 to Athletics)
Theme: Purple Dragon

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 18, Con 14, Dex 12, Int 8, Wis 10, Cha 16.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 16, Con 14, Dex 12, Int 8, Wis 10, Cha 16.

AC: 21 Fort: 17 Reflex: 16 Will: 16
HP: 41 Surges: 12 Surge Value: 10

TRAINED SKILLS
Streetwise +10, Athletics +11, Bluff +10, Intimidate +11, Stealth +7 (1 is from footpads)

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Acrobatics 0, Arcana 0, Diplomacy +4, Dungeoneering +1, Endurance +1, Heal +2, History 0, Insight +1, Nature +1, Perception +1, Religion 0, Thievery 0

FEATS
Human: Power of Skill
Feat User Choice: Devout Protector Expertise
Level 1: Power of the Storm
Level 2: Mark of Storm

POWERS
Bonus At-Will Power: Valiant Strike

Equipped Items

[SHOW]

Code: Select all

Main Hand: Club
Offhand:   Ancestral Shield (Heavy Shield)
Sheathed:  Dagger
Body:      Brennisian Legion Armor (Plate Armor)

Head:      ---
Neck:      ---
Arms:      ---
Hands:     ---
Waist:     ---
Feet:      Footpads
Symbol:    Holy Symbol of Aradamus
Ki Focus:  ---
Ring:      ---
Ring:      ---
Tattoo:    ---

Boon:      ---

All Items

[SHOW]

* Dagger,

• Lightning Bolt Pendant of Aradamus (Holy Symbol),
• Cloth Armor (Basic Clothing),
• Standard Identification Papers,
• Mask (Disguise),
• Footpads,
• Gambler's Gear,
• Listening Cone,
• Pitcher of Ale,
• Brennisian Legion Armor (Plate Armor),
• Club,
• Quarterstaff,
• Ancestral Shield (Heavy Shield),
• 1 gold coin

Combat Block

[SHOW]

Marcus Aemilianus

Male Human Blackguard 3
Languages: Brenissian, Common
Age: 33
Height: 5' 11"
Weight: 185 lbs.

Speed: 5
Initiative: +2
Passive Perception: 11
Passive Insight: 11
Senses: Normal Vision

AC: 21
Fort: 17
Reflex: 16
Will: 16
HP: 41/41
Bloodied: 20
Surge Value: 10
Surges left: 12/12
Action Points: 1

MBA (Valiant Srike):

• with club, +9 vs AC, 1d6+5 damage
• with dagger, +10 vs AC, 1d4+5 damage
• for both, I gain an additional +1 to attack for each adjacent enemy and deal +3 damage to enemies granting CA
• I will usually be using my feat ability to change damage type to thunder, which provides +2 damage and activates my sliding from mark of storm
  RBA: +3 vs AC (+7 with dagger), 1d4+2 damage (+3 more with CA)

Resistances: None

Vulnerabilities: None

Saves: None

Active Effects:

• +3 damage when I have CA
• +1 stealth from footpads
• all allies get +1 shield bonus to AC

Powers:

Focused Discipline
Valiant Strike
Vengeance Strike
Dominator's Strike

---

Second Wind []
Dread Smite [][]*
Shroud of Shadow []
Vice's Reward [_]

• Can only use once per turn
  __________________________________

Consumables:

None.

Important Features:

[SHOW]

Dark Menace: Whenever I make a weapon attack against an enemy granting me CA, the enemy takes extra damage equal to my charisma modifier (+3)

Spirit of Vice (Domination): Once per round when I have THP, I can take a free action to do damage to myself right before making an attack roll against a target. The damage is equal to my charisma modifier (+3), and I can then gain a damage bonus to that attack equal to the same amount.

Power of Skill: +1 to untrained skill checks, and I can use Valiant Strike as an MBA.

Power of the Storm: +2 to intimidate checks. When I use Valiant Strike, I can choose to change its damage type to thunder (the power gains the thunder keyword and loses the keyword of its former damage types). If I do this, I gain a +2 bonus to the damage roll.

Devout Protector Expertise: I gain a +1 feat bonus to weapon attack rolls made with a one-handed melee weapon, and a +1 feat bonus to implement attack rolls made with a holy symbol. While I use a shield, my allies gain a +1 shield bonus to AC.

Mark of Storm: Slide enemies 1 square when hitting with lightning or thunder powers. +1 to fly speed. Can master and perform certain rituals.

Items Claimed from Party Loot

[SHOW]

* Marcus' Plate Armor (was already mine to begin with)

• 1 Ancestral Shield
• 1 Club
• 1 Quarterstaff

[ratwizard]

PSA: I'm actively recruiting for this game. If you're interested, let me know in Discord.

[FinalTemplar]

Aurelius, Avenger of Aurelia
(Color: #FFFF80)

[sblock=Appearance][/sblock]
[sblock=10 Minute Background][sblock2=Background and Concept Elements]1)Appearance: Standing at a strong 6'2" and weighing 190lbs, Aurelius is more on the lanky side. He's found ways to make his agility work for him in combat rather than against them, and uses his speed to keep up with opponents. His hair is medium-length, thick, and black.
2)Personality Traits: Aurelius is mostly an act. He puts on a heroic, selfless face for others. Deep down he's a dorky kid who just wants to be the hero.
3)As a child Aurelius never had a positive influence; his peers disliked him due to his namesake. His father worked in the Watchmen and served as a role model for Aurelius, though mostly indirectly as he spent most of his days working.
4)His teen years were mostly spent in temples and doing odd jobs. His solitude during his youth forced him to create a persona he put on around other people. He goes out of his way to help and protect others, because he thinks that people will think differently of him if he acts like a hero.
5)As soon as he was old enough, he signed up for the Watchmen. He's dedicated himself fully to his training, wanting to prove his worth and be the best he can be. During his training the zombie attacks started. Wasting no time, and not waiting for orders, Aurelius chose to immediately abandon his training in order to see who he could protect.[/sblock2]
[sblock3=Goals]1) Aurelius wants to save as many people as possible.
2) I want Aurelius to survive.[/sblock3]
[sblock4=Secrets]1) Doubts his place as a Watchman. Committed a crime in his youth that still hangs heavy on him. (Thinks he murdered someone)
2) Actually descended from Aurelia, even though he doesn't know it.[/sblock4]
[sblock2=People Tied to Aurelius]1) Mother - Ashlyn - 5'6", 170lbs - Sweet, gentle, pacifist. Wouldn't hurt a fly, and would also open her home to a stranger if she felt they were a kind soul too in need of help. However, is capable of handling herself if she's pushed to her limits. ("I tend to be very cold to her in my day-to-day interactions with her, but... I think she knows that deep down I love her.")
2) Father - David - 6'2", 220lbs - Grumpy, firm, aggressive. Growing up, David was a shining figure of what a Watchman should be, in Aurelius' eyes. ("My father is near and dear to my heart. If it wasn't for him, I would be no one.")
3) Best Friend - Kyrie - 5'9", 180lbs - Sincere, assertive, rebellious. Kyrie has been Aurelius' best friend since early childhood. Aurelius hasn't seen Kyrie since he started training with the Watchmen, and has become increasingly worried about her safety. ("Kyrie is my dearest friend. She's strong, too. I hope she's survived.")
4) Rival - Jayce - 6'0", 170lbs - Grew up opposing Aurelius. Even for all of the flak Aurelius got for his namesake, Jayce still seemed jealous of his personal successes. He became so consumed by his jealousy and hatred of Aurelius that all of his personal progress has been made in spite of someone who has never met him.[/sblock2]
[sblock3=Memories, Mannerisms, and Quirks]1) Memory - Talking with his best friend Kyrie about joining the Watchmen and becoming the biggest hero, before she laughed like it was a joke.
2) Mannerism - He has a strong tendency to talk and act in a way that he thinks will make people think he is cool. So he acts very distant and cold, and is always thinking of one-liners he can say to bad guys.
3) Quirk - Is Ambidextrous.[/sblock3]
[sblock4=Backgrounds: Family/Class/Professions/Institutions]Family: Living.
Class: Middle-Class
Professions: In-Training (Watchmen)
Institutions: None.[/sblock4]
[sblock2=Drives: Primary/Secondary/Tertiary]Primary: Being seen as a Hero
Secondary: Falling in Love (currently infatuated with the goddess he's named after)
Tertiary: Becoming wealthy[/sblock2]
[sblock3=Goals: Short/Medium/Long]Short: Find his parents
Medium: Survive and save the city
Long: Find a new place to settle down after this zombie mess has blown over.[/sblock3][/sblock]
[sblock=Character Sheet]Aurelius, level 3
Human (Githzerai), Avenger
Build: Pursuing Avenger
Avenger's Censure: Censure of Pursuit
Background: Githzerai - War Band Survivor (+2 to Perception)
Theme: Guardian

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 10, Con 10, Dex 18, Int 10, Wis 20, Cha 8.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 10, Con 10, Dex 16, Int 10, Wis 18, Cha 8.

AC: 18 Fort: 12 Reflex: 16 Will: 17
HP: 36 Surges: 7 Surge Value: 9

TRAINED SKILLS
Religion +7, Heal +12, Perception +14, Stealth +11

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Acrobatics +7, Arcana +1, Bluff, Diplomacy, Dungeoneering +6, Endurance +1, History +1, Insight +6, Intimidate, Nature +6, Streetwise, Thievery +5, Athletics +3

FEATS
Feat User Choice: Mighty Crusader Expertise
Level 1: Githzerai Blade Master
Level 2: Power of Skill

POWERS
Avenger at-will 1: Overwhelming Strike
Avenger at-will 1: Bond of Pursuit
Avenger encounter 1: Whirlwind Charge
Guardian Encounter 1: Guardian's Counter
Githzerai Encounter 1: Iron Mind
Avenger Encounter 1: Oath of Enmity
Avenger Encounter 1: Abjure Undead (Channel Divinity)
Avenger Encounter 1: Divine Guidance (Channel Divinity)
Avenger daily 1: Aspect of Might
Avenger utility 2: Resonant Escape
Avenger encounter 3: Intervening Blades

ITEMS
Cloth Armor (Basic Clothing), Fullblade, Bedroll, Torch (10), Waterskin, Backpack (empty)[/sblock]
[sblock=Combat Block]Aurelius

Male Githzerai (Human) Avenger 3
Languages: Common, Brennisian
Age: 19
Height: 6'3
Weight: 190 lbs.

Speed: 6
Initiative: +7
Passive Perception: 24
Passive Insight: 16
Senses: Normal Vision

AC: 18
Fort: 12
Reflex: 16
Will: 17
HP: 36/36
Bloodied: 18
Surge Value: 9
Surges left: 6/6
Action Points: 1

MBA - Fullblade: +6 vs AC, 1d12+3 damage
MBA - Overwhelming Strike: +11 vs AC, 1d12+8 damage
MBA - Unarmed: +8 vs AC, 1d4+6 damage

Resistances:
None.

Vulnerabilities:
None.

Saves:
+2 Racial Bonus vs daze, dominate, or stun.

Active Effects:
None.

Powers:

At-Will -
Bull Rush Attack,
Grab Attack,
Opportunity Attack,
Bond of Pursuit,
Overwhelming Strike,

Item At-Will - N/A

---

Encounter [] -
Second Wind [],
Guardian's Counter [],
Iron Mind [],
Oath of Enmity [],
Whirlwind Charge [],
Abjure Undead [],
Divine Guidance [],
Intervening Blades [_],

Item Encounter [_] - N/A

---

Daily [] -
Aspect of Might [],

Item Daily [_] - N/A

Consumables:

None.

[sblock2=Important Features:]Racial Features: Githzeryai
Iron Mind - +Iron Mind Power
Danger Sense - +2 to Initiative
Defended Mind - +2 to saving throws against daze, dominate, and stun.
Shifting Fortunes - Shift 3 sq. when you use second wind.
Class Features: Avenger
Armor of Faith - Gain +3 to AC while wearing cloth armor or less and no shield.
Avenger's Censure - Gain an Avenger's Censure Power
Censure of Pursuit - Deal 2+ Dex mod extra damage if oath target moves away. (4 + Dex at 11th level, 6 + Dex at 21st.)
Channel Divinity - Invoke a channel divinity class feature or other power; encounter.
Oath of Enmity - Gain the oath of Enmity Power.

Powers:
Bond of Pursuit - At Will - +11 (Wis) vs AC. On a hit, deal 1[W]+Wisdom (+8) damage. If the target doesn't end its next turn adjacent to you, you can shift a number of squares equal to 1+Dex Mod (+4) as a free action, and you must end that shift closer to the target. (Level 21: 2[W] + Wisdom (+5) damage).

Overwhelming Strike - At Will - +11 (Wis) vs AC. On Hit: 1[W]+Wis (+5) damage. You shift 1 square and slide the target 1 square into the space I occupied. SPECIAL: This attack can be used as a basic attack. (Feat: Power of Skill) (Level 21: 2[W]+Wis (+5) damage).

Guardian's Counter - Immediate Interrupt - Range: Close Burst 2 - Trigger: An ally within 2 squares of me is hit by an attack and I'm not included in the attack. Effect: Both myself and my ally shift 2 squares as a free action, swapping positions. I become the target of the triggering attack in place of the ally. After the attack resolves, I make a basic attack against the attacker.

Iron Mind - Immediate Interrupt - Trigger: Hit by an attack. Effect: You gain a +2 bonus to all defenses until the end of your next turn.

Oath of Enmity - Minor Action - Range: Close Burst 10 - Target: One enemy I can see within burst - Effect: When I make a melee attack against the target and it's the only one near me, make two attack rolls and take either result. Lasts until the end of the encounter or the enemy drops to 0 at which point I regain use of the power. Other powers that allow me to roll twice and use the higher result take priority over this and cause OoE to have no effect. HOWEVER: If an attack lets me reroll an attack roll and I rolled twice because of OoE, reroll both dice.

Whirlwind Charge - Standard Action - Melee Range - Target: One Creature - +11 vs AC - Hit: 2[W] + Wisdom (+5) damage. Special: When charging, can use this power in the place of a basic attack. If I charge, I gain +4 bonus to AC against any Opportunity Attacks I provoke while moving to the target.

Abjure Undead - Standard Action - Close Burst 5 - One undead creature in burst - +7 vs WILL - UNIQUE: CHAN.DIVIN - Hit: 3d10+WIS (+5) Radiant damage, and you pull the target a number of squares equal to 1 + WIS mod (+5). The target is also immobilized untilthe end of your next turn. Miss: Half damage, and pull target 1 square (Damage increase at levels 5, 11, 15, 21, 25).

Divine Guidance - Immediate Interrupt - Close Burst 10 - The triggering Ally - UNIQUE: CHAN.DIVIN - Trigger: An ally within 10 squares of me makes an attack roll against my Oath target. Effect: Target rolls twice and uses either result.

Intervening Blades - Attack: 11 vs AC - Hit: 2[W] + Wisdom (+5) damage, and target takes a -2 penalty to attack rolls until the end of my next turn. Censure of Pursuit: Can use this power as an Opportunity Attack against my Oath of Enmity target.

Aspect of Might - Standard Action - Melee Range - One Creature - Attack: Wisdom vs. AC. Hit: 3[W]+Wisdom (+5) damage. Miss: Half damage. Effect: Until EOE, gain +5 to Athletics, +2 to Speed, +2 to damage of Melee Attacks.

Items: None[/sblock2][/sblock]

[sblock=Crew Relations][sblock2=Leonidas Calvus]"Leonidas seems like someone I would have aspired to be, at one point. The life of wealth is something I wish I could have."[/sblock2]
[sblock3=Einkill Ungart]"A man after my own heart. He is very religious, and I respect that of him."[/sblock3]
[sblock2=Varon]"He seems very friendly, but I don't trust him. Whenever I think of him, I can't help but think of a dog, in the way of how he follows others."[/sblock2]
[sblock4="The Mouse"][/sblock4][/sblock]

[GingerGiant]

Making space for Rouse the Mouse (or Rorsi, depending on background).

I'm looking at building him as a scrappier Fighter|Seeker, so this could radically change. It gives the party a Defender|Controller, and fits the low-fantasy vibe better.

Name Pending, level 3
Half Elf Druid (In-setting Human)
Half Elf Dilettente: Grappling Spirits (Seeker)
Background: TBD
Theme: Dead Rat Deserter

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 10, Con 18, Dex 10, Int 10, Wis 20, Cha 8

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 10, Con 16, Dex 10, Int 10, Wis 18, Cha 8

AC: 18, Fort: 15, Reflex: 12, Will: 17
HP: 45, Surges: 11, Surge Value: 11

TRAINED SKILLS
Dungeoneering +11, Endurance +10, Perception +11, Stealth +6

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Work in Progress

FEATS
Expertise: Versatile Expertise (Spear, Totem)
1st Level: Primal Sharpshooter (Biting Swarm)
2nd Level: TBD

POWERS
Druid At-Will 1: Swarming Locusts
Druid At-Will 1: Grasping Claws
Druid At-Will 1: Tending Strike
Druid Encounter 1: Wall of Smoke
Druid Daily 1: Summon Giant Toad
Druid Utility 2: Sudden Bite
Druid Encounter 3: Predator's Flurry

ITEMS
Hide armor, javelin (4)

[benderfan]

Einkill Ungart, Champion of the People

Portrait

[SHOW]

Combat Block

[SHOW]

Einkill Ungart

Male Dwarf Cleric 1
Languages: Common, Dwarven, Brennisian
Age: 50
Height: 4.5 feet
Weight: 150 lbs.

Speed: 5 squares
Initiative: +1
Passive Perception: 14
Passive Insight: 19
Senses: Low-Light Vision

AC: 15
Fort: 15
Reflex: 11
Will: 16
HP: 36/36
Bloodied: 18
Surge Value: 9
Surges left: 9/9
Action Points: 1

MBA: +8 vs. AC, 1d10+7 damage
RBA: +8 vs. AC, 1d6+7 damage

Resistances:
None

Vulnerabilities:
None

Saves:
+5 vs. poison

Active Effects:
None

Powers:

Righteous Brand
Blessing of Battle
Item At-Will

---

Dwarven Resilience []
Healing Word [][]
Takedown Strike []
Healing Strike []
Divine Fortune (Channel Divinity) []
Punish the Profane (Channel Divinity) []
Hammer of the Gods []
Item Encounter [_]

---

Shield of the Gods []
Armor of Faith []
Item Daily [_]

Consumables:

None

Important Features:

[SHOW]

Stand Your Ground: When an effect forces you to move—through a pull, a push, or a slide—you can move 1 square less than the effect specifies. This means an effect that normally pulls, pushes, or slides a target 1 square does not force you to move unless you want to. In addition, when an attack would knock you prone, you can immediately make a saving throw to avoid falling prone.

Battle Cleric's Lore: +2 shield bonus to AC, proficiency in scale armor, and grant a +2 bonus to attack rolls whenever I target someone with a power that lets them use a healing surge.

Item Feature: Explanation of feature. These should be any effects listed as 'Property' on a magic item, as well as any specific traits of the item itself (such as Brutal and other effects on certain weapons, special effects from superior implements, etc.). Again, if it is relevant it needs to be listed.

Ten-Minute Background Response Format

[SHOW]

Background and Concept Elements

[SHOW]

1) Pious mercenary

2) Aids whoever is in need, no matter who or what they might be.

3) Former soldier

4) Orphaned at a young age

5) Was abandoned while campaigning and lost his leg

Goals

[SHOW]

1) Wishes to spread the teachings of Loz to all people

2) Wishes to become the greatest mercenary the world has ever known

Secrets

[SHOW]

1) Deserted his mandatory 2 years of service in Bal, as he refused to take orders from someone who would leave him to die.

2) Unknown to him, his mother was a well-known thief in the capital of Bal, and had basically left him to die on the streets, until his adoptive father found him.

People Tied to Character

[SHOW]

1) His father, a priest of the Dwarven Pantheon. They have a good relationship.

2) His former commander, who generally dislikes him.

3) His childhood friend, who still serves in the military of Bal.

Memories, Mannerisms, and Quirks

[SHOW]

1) Exudes confidence with every word he speaks.

2) Honorable to a fault.

3) Has good memories of his days by his father's side, teaching him both how to fight and how to properly give thanks to the gods.

Background - Family/Class/Profession/Institutions

[SHOW]

Family: The only family he knows is his father, with whom he has a close relationship.

Class: His father was a priest of the dwarven pantheon, so he has great social status from that. However, in Bal he's an outlaw from abandoning his required two years of military service.

Profession: Einkill works as a wandering mercenary, helping those in need, using those who can pay a lot for his services to supplement helping those who can't pay at all.

Institutions: He associates with no institutions other than himself and Loz.

Drives - Primary/Secondary/Tertiary

[SHOW]

Primary: Aiding those who cannot aid themselves.

Secondary: Practicing the religion of his father, and spreading the word of Loz.

Tertiary: Amassing wealth so he can live well.

Goals - Short-Term/Medium-Term/Long-Term

[SHOW]

Short-Term: I'd like for Einkill to set up connections in this part of the world, so he can "keep his ear to the ground" so to speak.

Medium-Term: To spread his name as a mercenary throughout Voreld.

Long-Term: Gather a group of like-minded individuals, and form a group dedicated to helping those in need.

Character Sheet

[SHOW]

Einkill Ungart, level 3
Dwarf, Cleric
Build: Battle Cleric
Cleric: Battle Cleric's Lore
Dwarf Subrace: Standard Dwarf Racial Traits
Background: Occupation - Military (Extra Language)

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 18,
Con 14,
Dex 10,
Int 8,
Wis 17,
Cha 10.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 18,
Con 12,
Dex 10,
Int 8,
Wis 15,
Cha 10.

AC: 15
Fort: 15
Reflex: 11
Will: 16

HP: 36
Surges: 9
Surge Value: 9

TRAINED SKILLS
Religion +5,
History +5,
Insight +9,
Heal +9

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Acrobatics +1,
Arcana +0,
Bluff +1,
Diplomacy +1,
Dungeoneering +6,
Endurance +5,
Intimidate +1,
Nature +4,
Perception +4,
Stealth +1,
Streetwise +1,
Thievery +1,
Athletics +5

FEATS
Cleric: Ritual Caster
Level 1: Weapon Focus (Hammer)
Level 2: Dwarven Weapon Training
Feat User Choice: Implement Expertise (Holy Symbol)

POWERS
Channel Divinity: Divine Fortune
Channel Divinity: Punish the Profane
Cleric at-will 1: Battle Cleric's Weapon Mastery
Cleric at-will 1: Blessing of Battle
Cleric encounter 1: Healing Strike
Cleric daily 1: Shield of the Gods
Cleric utility 2: Armor of Faith
Cleric encounter 3: Hammer of the Gods

ITEMS
Ritual Book,
Holy Symbol,
Throwing hammer,
Cloth Armor (Basic Clothing),
Leather Armor,
Warhammer

RITUALS
Purify Water,
Create Holy Water

Equipped Items

[SHOW]

Code: Select all

Main Hand: Throwing Hammer
Offhand:   Holy Symbol
Body:      Leather Armor

Head:      ---
Neck:      ---
Arms:      ---
Hands:     ---
Waist:     ---
Feet:      ---
Symbol:    ---
Ki Focus:  ---
Ring:      ---
Ring:      ---
Tattoo:    ---

Boon:      ---

[BartNL]

Varon (color 00FF00)

Portrait

[SHOW]

Varon.2.jpg

Ten-Minute Background

[SHOW]

Background and Concept Elements

[SHOW]

1) Birth - Born into poverty, Varon was the third son to a dockworker from Vizidel. As a kid Varon learnt how to fish and catch birds, usefull skills when you don't want to starve.

2) Early life - When Varon turned 10 he joined The Laughing Gulls, a mercenary group, as a page. They taught him how to survive a battle. After turning 14 Varon became a regular member, and he was expected to earn back everything he had cost the Gulls.

3) Later life - Three years ago, after earning back what the Gulls were owed, Varon decided to change careers. Mercenary work has a decent pay when you're good, it however doesn't compare to being a bodyguard for a rich boss. Life expectancy is better too. A bodyguard is paid for avoiding dangerous situations on behalve of someone else, a mercenary is paid for doing the opposite. After working his way up in this new buiseness. Recently Varon found an employer who paid well enough and who probably didn't a bodyguard to begin with -the best kind of employer.

4) Outbreak - The residence of Varon's boss was overrun early during the outbreak. Varon had managed to survive alone for a while just fine, but supllies ran out faster than intended. Luckily, the large well fortified group in the Gilded Mare was willing to take him in.

5) Appearance - Varon a 32 years old 6"1 human male.
Varon is a tall broad shouldered man, who is surprisingly quick for a man his size and age.

6) Personality traits - Varon is friendly, but likes to keep to himself. In a group he is dependable, and willing to take orders from a leader figure. He understands he is not exceptionally intelligent, and relies on others to make the strategical decisions.

Goals

[SHOW]

1) Reinforce, and stay safe.

2)

Secrets

[SHOW]

Varon will do anything to safe his own skin. Lie, betray, murder.

1) Varon has murdered a captive enemy in his mercenary days, faking the man's escape attempt and giving himself a superficial wound in order to avoid fighting a difficult battle the next day. The battle was unsuccesful as Varon had suspected, and many comrades Varon had sworn to protect lost their lives.

2) Varon has eliminated a rival bodyguard, Dovverax who wanted to apply for the same job by getting him drunk and feeding him laxatives.

3)

People Tied to

[SHOW]

Family) Varon has three brothers and 2 sisters.
Varon doesn't know of they or his parents are still alive. He has two uncles and three aunts (by blood) he knows who lived in Vizidel. His second brother and oldest sister have families of their own.

1) Toran Sr. Varon's father. A well meaning, hard working drunkard. Varon couldn't care less about how he's holding up.

2) Toran Jr. Varon's oldest brother. A well meaning, hard working drunkard like his father. He lives with his parents.

3) Vana, Varon's mother. A sweet old woman. She has always wanted better for her children. Varon tries to visit her when he has time.

4) Dorf, Varon's second brother. Dorf works as a carpenter on a merchant vessel. He has a wife and baby daughter in Vizidel. Dorf is probably safe, but his wife Mirri and daughter might be in danger.

5) Varon's oldest sister Venne has moved away from Vizidel long ago.
Varons's youngest sister Jen lives with her parents and brother and takes care of them.

Others
1) Kuvor, Varon's best friend. Not that there's a lot of competition for that spot. Kuvor and Varon worked for the Gulls together. Kuvor remained part of the Gulls when Varon quit. At their last reunion, he told Varon that he might be interested in moving to Vizidel to find a job as a body guard.

2) Ser Borrivar, commander of the Gulls. An unlanded knight who hails from Tulrisse. Borrivar claims to have been knighted for his bravery by a dying knight. None have dared to call him a liar and challenge him. Borrivar is giant warrior with a quick wit and a talent for military strategy. As a person, he is ruthless but he does genuinely care for his Gulls.
Varon respects Borrivar, but he cannot trust him since Borrivars's love for his mercenaries does not extend to former members. Borrivar thinks it was a shame to lose Varon.

3) Fezzel, Fezzel was a servent to Varon's late employer. Fezzel had mysteriously disappeared the day before their employer and most of the household were killed during the outbreak.

4) Dovverax, a rival. Dovverax was recently poisoned by Varon. And he hasn't forgotten. Varon's secret is safe with him for now, as Dovverax doesn't want to admit that he was outsmarted.

4)

Memories, Mannerisms, and Quirks

[SHOW]

1) Varon loves to eat fish and seafood.
2) Varon prefers to wear his helmet indoors, for safety reasons, and will usually only take it of to eat or sleep.
3) Varon is a light sleeper, but he can fall asleep anywhere.

4)

Background - Family/Class/Profession/Institutions

[SHOW]

Family - Varon's family was poor.
Class -Vizidel native underclass citizen
Profession - Varon works as a bodyguard. In the past he was a mercenary.
Institutions - Varon was part of the Laughing Gulls mercenaries.

Drives - Primary/Secondary/Tertiary

[SHOW]

Primary - Survival
Secondary - Improve himself; become stronger, faster and smarter.
Tertiary - Gain wealth to live a good life

Goals - Short-Term/Medium-Term/Long-Term

[SHOW]

Short - Stay alive and reinforce
Medium - Find out if family in Vizidel is alive, and find a way to protect them.
Long - Get out of this mess, and find a new job as a bodyguard. Varon wants to start a family after things settle down.

Crew Relations

[SHOW]

Varon has tried to avoid making strong bonds with his fellow survivors. Having such bonds means other will rely more on you than you owe them.
Leonidas Calvus
A strange boy. There's more to him than first meets the eye. He seems sharp enough not to get himself killed, and he is wealthy. Befriending Leonidas should prove beneficial.

Marcus Aemilianus
Everyone in Vizidel knows Marcus and the All-seeing Eye. His reputation of being reliable has proceeded him. What has amazed me is that Marcus must have had a past as a soldier or mercenary. Looking at Marcus, he should be a good partner in combat. As Marcus likes to take charge it might be wise to make myself usefull to him.

Aurelius
This kid is going to himself killed. He has some potential though, and when he stops being reckless I'd be glad to have him around.

Einkill Ungart
Another hero. And this one is a zealot... Just my luck. On the other hand, a mercenary his age should be able to pull his own weight and some more.

Wishlist

[SHOW]

NPC
1)
Items

Character Sheet

[SHOW]

Varonlevel 3
Human [Half-Orc], Fighter
Build: Tempest Fighter
Fighter: Combat Agility
Fighter Talents: Tempest Technique
Theme: Guardian
Background: Occupation - Military +2 endurance

FINAL ABILITY SCORES
Str 18, Con 14, Dex 18, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 10.

STARTING ABILITY SCORES
Str 16, Con 14, Dex 16, Int 8, Wis 12, Cha 10.

AC: 19 Fort: 17 Reflex: 16 Will: 12
HP: 41 Surges: 11 Surge Value: 10

TRAINED SKILLS
Perception +7, Stealth +9, Athletics +9 Endurance +11

UNTRAINED SKILLS
Acrobatics +6, Arcana +0, Bluff +1, Diplomacy +1, Dungeoneering +2, Heal +2, History +0, Insight +2, Intimidate +3, Nature +2, Religion +0, Streetwise +1, Thievery +4

FEATS
Class Bonus: Two-weapon Defense
Level 1: Midnight Blade Student
Level 2: Weapon Focus (Light Blade)
Feat User Choice: Light Blade Expertise

POWERS
Fighter at-will 1: Dual Strike
Fighter at-will 1: Footwork Lure
Fighter encounter 1: Funneling Flurry
Fighter daily 1: Tempest Dance
Fighter utility 2: Boundless Endurance
Fighter encounter 3: Rain of Blows

ITEMS
Short sword (2), Hide Armor, Backpack (empty), Crowbar, Climber's Kit

Combat Block Format

[SHOW]

Varon

Male Human [Half-Orc] Fighter level 3
Languages: Brennisian, Common
Age: 32
Height: 6"1
Weight: 200 lbs.

Speed: 6 (+2 when charging)
Initiative: +5
Passive Perception: 17
Passive Insight: 12
Senses: Low-Light Vision

AC: 19
Fort: 17
Reflex: 16
Will: 12
HP: 41/41
Bloodied: 20
Surge Value: 10
Surges left: 11/11
Action Points: 1

MBA: +10 vs AC, 1d6+7 damage
RBA: + 9 vs AC, 1d4+5 damage
Resistances:
None

Vulnerabilities:
None
Saves:
Active Effects:
None

Powers:

At-Will
Footwork Lure
Dual Strike
Combat Agility
Combat Challenge

Item At-Will

---

Encounter Funneling Flurry[]
Rain of Blows[]
Guardians Counter[]
Furious Assault[]
Second Wind []
Action Point []

Item Encounter [_]

---

Daily Tempest Dance[]
Boundless Endurance[]

Item Daily [_]

Consumables:

Important Features:

[SHOW]

Combat Challenge: +1 opportunity attack. An enemy struck by your opportunity attack stops moving, if a move provoked the attack. If it still has actions remaining, it can use them to resume moving.
Combat Agility:
Two-Weapon Defense: while holding a melee weapon in each hand, you gain a +1 shield bonus to AC and Reflex.
Tempest Technique: +1 atk with offhand weapon, while wearing light armor or chainmail gain +1 damage with melee or close weapons or +2 with offhand weapons.
Half-orc Resilience: The first time you are bloodied during an encounter, gain 5 temporary hit points.
Midnight Blade Student: Can use Dual strike against Reflex instead of AC with a melee light blade
Light Blade expertise +1 dmg with light blades if you have CA

[ratwizard]

Please have your characters completed by the end of Saturday, September 7th. I hope to start the game on Sunday.