Almost forgot, Astrid picked 2g off the guys as they left the table. Thanks, guys.

Just found this and got caught up. Really enjoying the read and like how you're presenting it. Glad you decided to use all the characters and how you're showing how this plays out for all of them. Too bad you lost 1 so early but hopefully the rest will survive for a good long while.

Thanks! I really wish I could load pictures. It's a pretty nifty experience. I'm going to back the kickstarter for next year that opens next month and I recently purchased last year's "calendar" on PDF...not playing that day by day. That'll be kind of a side thing particularly when I'm on the road.

I had a tough time figuring out how to tell the story. Writing in all of the dice rolls and modifiers felt clunky so I dropped it in favor of the (Final values). It feels a bit cleaner that way.

Losing Azmyra was tough, but I thought I was going to lose Tsavani and Lyric as well. At this point, with the Level 2 everyone's in better shape right now. I'm sure the enemies are going to pick it up, though.

I'm reading the 2021 intro and I get to the actual story and able to pick my character...wouldn't you know it, it's Astrid, Thudak, Lyric, Faris, Wolfrik, and Zilmora! They do have their backstories here...I don't think I shared the backstories of the other six because these 6 didn't have them. It gives a little more flavor to each of them. I may update the original post for all of it...but that would be when I have that kind of time on my hands.

Monday, Feb 21

Travel to Whitmoore Manor

It will take one day to travel to Lord Whitmoore's manor and back. I have the option to travel during the day, which would make travel easier, or I could go under the cover of night, which could aid me in stealth activities once I get there.

A) Travel during the day. D20+WIS+Survivalist+Map/Compass
or
B) Travel in the cover of night. D20+WIS+Survivalist+Map/Compass

Splitting groups before I move on is the obvious move.

I decide Sir Gareth, The Professor, Syntax, Thudak, Lyric, and Wolfrik will travel by day.

Night travelers are Tsavani, Mori'an, Faris, Zilmora, and Astrid.

Day travelers Sir Gareth (17), Wolfrik (13), and The Professor (21) have no problem and get to the manor quickly.

The same can't be said for Thudak (6), Syntax (3), and Lyric (1). They get bogged down by the people coming into the city and have to consume their ration.

Night travelers did not do well. It was possible they could have made it their quickly, but none did. Astrid (8), Faris (11), and Mori'an (10) each consume a ration. Zilmora (4) and Tsavani (3) both got lost and ended up losing not only a ration for the delay, but 1HP as well.

All of our night travelers, though, gain +2 to any stealth rolls tomorrow.

Tuesday, Feb 22

Moonlight falls upon the Whitmoor manor. From a distant bush, I observe a couple of guards keeping watch. It's quiet. How will I get past the guards and into the house?

A) Sneak past the guards. D20+DEX+Stealthy+Stealth bonus from yesterday
or
B) Distract the guards. D20+INT.
or
C) Attack the guards. D20+ATK, Damage

Yesterday proved to be somewhat risky for the night crew, but they gained the stealth bonus...which would have worked out as the better option.

I split the 11 into the three options, based on what's the best available. Whichever is the best modifier between the two options is the one they take. If neither provides a bonus, well, there's always the fight.

Those trying to sneak past:
Tsavani
Mori'an
Faris
Astrid

Those trying to distract:
The Professor
Syntax
Zilmora

Those choosing to attack:
Sir Gareth
Thudak
Lyric
Wolfrik

Tsavani (22), Mori'an (21), Faris (19), and Astrid (27) are as quiet as the wind and hide in the shadows as they sneak past the guards. They're able to get past them without trouble.

Astrid initially fails miserably, but using her Lucky ability, she re-rolls the 1...and lucky strike...get's a 20 instead.

Zilmora (18) throws a rock in the other direction and gets the attention of the guards. Another rock thrown and they take off in that direction. She slips past unseen.

The same can't be said for The Professor (13) or Syntax (7). When they attempted to throw the rock, one of the guards spots them. The Professor kills the guards, but lost 2HP. Syntax took more damage, -4HP, and the guards escaped.

Full on attacks by Sir Gareth and Thudak result in the guards escaping. Sir Gareth lost 1HP, Thudak lost 2HP.

Lyric dropped an insult on them as he killed the guards without taking damage. Wolfrik used his holy strike and divine smite to secure both hits and kills on the guards without damage.

A bloody start for our adventurers. but they'll move on. Worst off is Syntax 10/14. I won't worry and try using potions or spells until they're down to half of their HP.

Wednesday, Feb 23

The doors and windows to the manor are all locked. With guards out patrolling (and surely some searching in the cases where the guards got away), I search for another way in. After surveying the house, I find a sewer grate a short distance away. The tunnel leads directly to the manor and is big enough to squeeze through. I just need to stop myself from getting sick and get through the gate.


I must deal with the smell. D20+CON+Danger Sense.

Then I can choose to
A) Pick the lock on the grate. D20+DEX+Locksmith+Lockpick Tools
or
B)Break the bars of the grate. D20+STR

Dealing with the smell.

For Sir Gareth (15), Syntax (16), Mori'an (20), Lyric (16), and Astrid (16), they simply use mind over matter. They've been through worse and work through it.

Thudak (10), Faris (14), Wolfrik (9), and Zilmora (13) all have their issues...but gagging is the worse of it. They suffer -2 modifiers to any rolls after this (today).

The Professor (3) and Tsavani (6) struggle, though. They both get sick. They lose 1HP each and suffer -2 modifiers to any rolls after this (just today).

I chose to split our crew based on what was their best option, but in reality there's no penalty two either. It's just a matter of finally getting through the grate. We were largely successful on the first shots, too.

Sir Gareth (12), Thudak (13), and Wolfrik (17) went for the bars, found a few rusty ones and were able to make a hole to get through.

The Professor (15) Tsavani (18), Syntax (13), Lyric (16), Faris (18), and Zilmora (15) all picked the lock quickly.

Mori'an attempted to pick the lock (5), but found the rusty bars and got through that way (16).

Astrid struggled the most. The lockpick artist, or at least we thought, couldn't get the lock (10). She couldn't bend the bars on the first shot (4), but got it the second time (13). She suffered -1HP in her struggle with the bars.

Thursday, Feb 24

Whitmoore Manor, First Floor

The manor is quiet as any residents are likely asleep. Now inside, I need to look around to locate where any documents of the Tournament and festival may be stored.

There are 5 rooms before ending at the staircase. I don't completely understand their labeling here, but it would make more sense to me if it was labeled consecutively as I enter the house. Instead, we appear to start in a trash room and work our way into a cleaning room in the top right corner of the map of the house.

It appears we can just about choose our own adventure from here. South of the cleaning room is a kitchen. South of it is the dining room in the SE corner of the map. West of the dining room is a entryway to the house. West of that is the final room we can investigate, the sitting room. It takes up the entire western side of the house. From there we end at the staircase.

In theory, I suppose I could go anywhere I wanted after the cleaning room, but I think I'll stick with a routine I just laid out. As for room numbers it will be 4 (cleaning room), 5 (kitchen), 3 (dining), 2 (entry), and 1 (sitting).

I'll reserve the right to change course if things get tooo hairy for anyone, but I have good confidence in their current status.

Exiting the trash room, the cleaning room is filled with dirty towels and linens in large piles. Clean towels and linens are on shelves. Dirty dishes are soaking in water basins. Nothing was found in this room.

Into the kitchen they go. They find a couple of servants chatting and doing light work. They stop and look at our adventurers in surprise. Unsure of intent, it's up to the adventurer to convince (d20+CHA+persuasive) or threaten (D20+STR+Intimidate) them to remain quiet.

Tsavani (11), Mori'an (13), Thudak (25), and Wolfrik (11) threaten their lives and the servants agree to sit and be quiet in a corner. Sir Gareth (10), The Professor (1), and Syntax (4) all tried this but the servants bolted out the door. Because of this, there's less time to search...they've got to get a move on and suffer a -2 penalty on ALL rolls through today and tomorrow. This is a big deal. Or could be, I suppose.

Lyric chooses to convince them and initially fails, but he adds his Charm ability (21) to help create a lie that Lord Whitmoore had sent him to check on the property. He tells them to get back to work and they do. Zilmora (3) and Astrid (6) try this same thing but the servants run out. -2 penalty. Lyric used that charm to avoid that penalty. I think it was the right move.

I wish Sir Gareth and Wolfrik weren't intimidators. I'd have rather had them try the other option...

Into the dining room. Remnants of the last meal are still on the table. There could be something useful here. D20+INT+Investigator.

Faris (-2) and Astrid (5) find nothing and move on. Sir Gareth (11), The Professor (14), Mori'an (11), and Wolfrik (11) all find an unopened bottle of aged wine (d6 to charisma for one day). Tsavani (15), Syntax (20), Thudak (18), Lyric (17), and Zilmora (19) all find the wine and a box of silver utensils worth 10g. They take both.

From there to the entryway, where a sleeping guard is found. We must try to sneak past without waking him. D20+DEX+Stealthy.

Sir Gareth (18), Tsavani (23), Thudak (11), Lyric (18), Faris (16), and Zilmora (14) all creep by quietly to the sitting room. The Professor (-1), Syntax (1), Mori'an (2), Wolfrik (4), and Astrid (8) all woke the guard. A small tussle and the guard is knocked back out, but they each lost 1HP. Important to note that Mori'an doesn't gain a HP for just knocking him out.

The sitting room awaits. Embers glow in the fireplace as we search for something of use. D20+INT+Investigator.

Sir Gareth (4), Mori'an (6), Thudak (4), Faris (1), and Zilmora (3) all find nothing and head to the staircase (for tomorrow). The Professor (21), Tsavani (18), Syntax (13), Lyric (15), Wolfrik (11), and Astrid (15) all find a copper key inside a tobacco box by the fireplace. They'll keep that for now.

Going in to tomorrow, Sir Gareth, The Professor, Syntax, Faris, Zilmora, and Astrid will still have -2 to all rolls.

Friday, Feb 25

Whitmoore Manor, Second Floor

I couldn't find what I was looking for on the first floor. Perhaps there is an office on the second floor where correspondence and records for the Tournament are kept.


The staircase is located in the center of the manor. The rooms again are number in a weird way. Directly north of us, where we'll start, is a storage room. We'll go west from there to the bedrooms before circling around the staircase to a trophy room of sorts. From there we'll go to the southeast corner and another sitting room. After that, we'll hit what appears to be a library. We'll work back to the staircase via the north hall where we'll find the elusive office...that will very likely be left for tomorrow.

Again, if things get crazy, I'm sure I don't have to hit every room, but so far, all 11 are in good shape.

Leaving the staircase for the storage room almost directly in front of us, we find what you might expect. Spare linen, firewood, miscellaneous supplies. We look for something useful in here. D20+INT+Investigator.

The Professor (7), Thudak (3), Faris (6), and Wolfrik (4) didn't find anything useful, but the rest found a health potion inside a medical kit on the back wall. Astrid, of note, used her lucky ability to succeed.

They follow the north hallway to the west into the bedrooms. Children and what appears to be Lady Whitmoore are sleeping. No need to search here and potentially wake someone. We head south to the south hallway and turn into the trophy room.

Lord Whitmoore must be an enthusiastic hobby hunter. Several trophy animals are mounted in here. There's a large treasure box in the center of the room. Some of our adventurers picked up a copper key yesterday. They would obviously try it here, but it doesn't work. They'll all try to pick the lock. D20+DEX+Locksmith.

The only ones to successfully pick this lock are Syntax (after using his tinkerer ability for a +1, 17) and Mori'an (18). They're rewarded well for their effort. They gain 5g, a Dragon Fire drink, and a Combat Tonic.

Heading east down the south hall and into the sitting room on the second floor. Large comfortable chairs face the large windows in this corner of the manor which allows you to take in the view...at this time of night it's just the beautiful full moon. The family dog was resting in this room and jumped down from it's chair and growls at you. We'll attempt to calm the dog. D20+WIS+Animal Tamer.

Sir Gareth (13), Tsavani (15), Thudak (12), Lyric (15), Faris (17), and Wolrik (20) all succeed. They slowly walk back out of the room and Bruno goes back to it's rest. The rest tried this as well, but the dog got a bit in before they were able to shut the door. They suffer a loss of 1 HP.

North we head into the library. It's an immense private collection. Wall to wall shelves that are full of books. Probably something of value in here. D20+INT+Student.

Sir Gareth (2), The Professor (5), Tsavani (1), Lyric (5), Faris (2), and Astrid (-1) all fail to find anything. Astrid can only use that lucky ability once per page, and I clearly chose poorly. I'd given that some thought, but didn't think I'd roll a 1 on the d20 again that quickly.

Zilmora (14) found a valuable book, worth 10g, sitting in a glass case. She'll take that with her. Syntax (15), Mori'an (23), Thudak (20), and Wolfrik (15) all found the book, but also found a hidden safe in a bookshelf. It wasn't even locked...but inside they only found 2g. 2 more gold than what they walked in with, I suppose.

They exit out of the library and head to the north hall and to what appears to be the very elusive office.

Saturday/Sunday, Feb 26/27

I find Lord Whitmoore's office and study. There are scrolls and paper everywhere. This room must hold what I'm looking for.

Search the room to find what I need to complete the mission. D20+INT+Investigator. Reminder of what our mission was from the start...Mori'an and Thudak were the only ones sent out to rig the Tournament.

Sir Gareth (14), The Professor (18), Syntax (16), Faris (17), and Zilmora (18) all found the evidence, a ledger of bribes and letter correspondence that the Tournament is rigged. They took the evidence with them.

Tsavani (8), Lyric (5), Wolfrik (7), and Astrid (1) found no evidence of rigging. Perhaps they were set up so they would miss the Tournament or to get caught. Astrid was particularly unlucky. A roll of 1 was tried again with her Lucky ability and she got a 1. Again.

As for Mori'an and Thudak, they had different responses as well. Mori'an (4) wasn't able to determine if he could even rig the Tournament. The people that sent him here must have wanted to get him out of the Tournament or caught.

Thudak (14) found that Lord Whitmoore was taking bribes to influence the winner of the Tournament of Lords. Those that pay the most are automatically qualified for a spot in the final Tournament rounds. He found a ledger of the bribes. Some of the entries were made today. He spends a little time doctoring the ledger to appear as though he was a top contributor.

Monday, Feb 28

I find a locked chest nestled away and partially hidden behind a stack of books. It is heavy and difficult to move. I wager it holds some nice treasure so I'm determined to open it.

A) If I have the copper key, it unlocks this chest.
B) Pick the lock. D20+DEX+Locksmith
or
C) Smack the lock. Roll damage.

The Professor, Tsavani, Syntax, Lyric, Wolfrik, and Astrid all had the key. A perfect fit. The chest opens with a click.

None of the remaining group have a negative modifier to trying to pick the lock, so they'll all try it. Thudak (22) and Zilmora (27, used spell Quicken) pick the lock, but Mori'an (7) and Faris (4) managed to hurt themselves in the process, losing 1HP. Sir Gareth (11) wasn't able to pick the lock, but didn't injure himself, either.

Let the smashing of locks begin.

Sir Gareth used Divine Smite to assist in smashing this lock, but lost 1HP.
Mori'an cast Drain Life for additional damage, and somehow gains 2HP in the process. He smashes the lock, but still loses 1HP (+1 overall).
Faris took two shots at but broke it, losing 1HP.

We get to see what's in the treasure chest tomorrow.

Pick 1 treasure item to take. The only note really beyond that is I can't equip two of the same item...that's more for future reference since equipment hasn't really been an option to date.

The choices are:
Champion Shield: +1 DEX, +1 DEF
Necklace of Luck: +1 DEX, +1 ATK
Belt of the Champ: +1 DEX, +1 HP

So far, I've seen 1 point of defense having a big difference in damage that has been dealt to the characters, so I'm thinking the 4 lowest in defense will likely take the shield.

From there I'm thinking the next four lowest HP will take the Belt.

The next and last 3, which is probably going to include Thudak (I believe without looking he has the lowest natural attack value), will take the necklace.

I'll divide that up for certain later today.

Also, in case you're interested, Sundial Games is running a kickstarter that started today for the next calendar.

I'm 90% certain I'm going to go in for the 2nd highest tier. I didn't know the pricing plans previously, but the top tier is $300. On top of all the bells and whistles you get to make a "holiday" of sorts on the calendar. I was hoping to add a "Poli Rules Day" for my birthday.

The choices were made...but Thudak could have easily used the Champion Shield.

Champion Shield: The Professor, Tsavani, Faris, Wolfrik. Faris and Wolfrik made the least sense here...but they're abilities in these three areas are fairly good already.

Belt of the Champ: Sir Gareth, Syntax, Lyric, and Astrid.

Necklace of Luck: Thudak, Mori'an, and Zilmora. I ended up choosing these 3 first, because they had the lowest ratings overall and made it fairly easy to choose.

Wednesday, March 2

I hear a clamoring of items. I don't believe I knocked anything over to make a noise like that. I turn to look at the ruckus and discover various items in the room are taking the shape of a beast. I must have triggered a magical alarm and activated a security feature of the manor.

3 rounds of battle here.

D20+Dex, D20+ATK, Damage

Sir Gareth: Got plunked by books being thrown at him, but he managed to put this magical golem down. He gained 2g, but lost 1HP in the process.

The Professor: Got hit by the books and hit on the side by a fist of brick. He cast Leaf on the Wind to lower the damage. In the end the golem fell apart...the magical defense wasn't made to last that long. He gained 1g, but lost 2HP.

Tsavani: Killed the golem, but not before getting jabbed with a fireplace poker. She used Evasion to lower the damage. 2g, -2HP.

Syntax: Hit by the books, but killed the golem, however, it spent 10g in abilities to make it happen. If it hadn't done so, it looked to have missed on all three rounds and would have suffered 7 damage. Money well spent, IMO. He loses 8g overall and just 1 HP instead.

Mori'an: Cast Bone Shield for defense, he was hit by the poker and the brick...the golem falling apart in the end. 1g, -3HP.

Thudak: Went into Rage to start the fight and eventually used a combat tonic to ensure hits. He was hit by the books, but killed the golem. 2g, -2HP.

Lyric: The man with musical skills tossed an insult at the golem as he managed to be the only one of the eleven to score blows on each round. 3g for you, sir. Well done.

Faris: Using precise aim, she got a hit on the first round, but hits by the poker and the brick made her feel it. 1g, -3HP.

Wolfrik: a divine strike helped land one hit, and he got the kill despite getting hit by the poker. 2g, -2HP.

Zilmora: Casting Arcane Armor was very important here. She missed each time and got pummeled. Instead of losing 9, she only loses 4HP.

Astrid: Our gnome thief got lucky again, and managed to score two hits on the golem before it fell apart. 2g, -1HP.

An overall very bloody day. The Professor has 7/14 HP. A few others are slightly better than 50% right now. If any drop below that threshold, we'll start popping potions and spells to help.

All of the noise from fighting the golem has alerted the guards. They come rushing up the stairs and to the study. I try to leave the house ahead of them. They chase after me.

Dodge and avoid the guards to stay ahead of them as they chase me. D20+CON+Athlete+Danger Sense

Syntax (4), Faris (5), and Zilmora (-3) are hit from behind. One guard tackles them and they both fall through a table. They're able to fight the guards off as they escape, but suffer 3 damage.

Mori'an (6) is hit from behind but avoids getting tackled and ultimately going through the table. It's not much prettier, but he only suffers 2 damage.

Tsavani (14), Thudak (14), Lyric (15), and Astrid (14) dodge and weave. They take a few blows as they escape but still suffer 1 damage.

Sir Gareth (20), The Professor (18), and Wolfrik (20) avoid almost all contact as they zip back through the house, down the stairs and out the door. No damage, no sweat. No problem.

The hits today took 3 of our adventurers under 50%hp, so we're forced to take action.

Syntax took a potion and recovered 4hp.
Faris used Nature's healing and recovered 4hp.
Zilmora used a potion and recovered 3hp.

Friday, March 4

I return to the city of Graycliff in time for the Tournament of Lords (and apparently the stamp on my wrist got me back through the gates free of charge). I missed the opening ceremonies that took place but I do get to enjoy smaller groups of performers on the fairgrounds.

1. Do I toss a coin to the performers?
2. Optional, I can try to take a nap under a tree for rest. D20+WIS

We are generally all around good adventurers. I treat the coin toss as I did for the beggar. Mori'an and Thudak pass on it.

Taking a nap? Roll against wisdom. Sounds like a trappish like moment. I review the characters. Those around the 50% threshold for HP take the risk and a nap. We'll hope the others are ready for the tournament as is. Taking the nap: The Professor, Syntax, Mori'an, Faris, Wolfrik, and Zilmora.

Tossing the coin was the smart thing to do here, and it had nothing to do with virtue. Thudak and Mori'an observe one of the performers is visibly frustrated that someone has stopped to watch but didn't bother to contribute. After some time, they each feel a tug at their coin purse. Mori'an (8) looks down to find he's 3g short. Thudak (16) reacted quickly, though, and didn't lose anything in the process.

Taking a nap turned out to be a gamble as well. The Professor (22) and Faris (13) managed to find quiet places away from the grounds of the festival. A short nap later they feel completely refreshed.

Syntax (4), Mori'an (8), Wolfrik (4), and Zilmora (6) were each robbed while they took their nap. In Wolrik's case, it was all the gold he had left. Syntax, Mori'an, and Zilmora each lost 4g. In Mori'an's case, he stood to lose more, but used a blood ritual to sacrifice 1HP to improve his wisdom roll. They each got that rest, but it was expensive...and in Mori'an's case, he's down 1HP out the gate already.

I'll share updated HP and gold positions later today hopefully.

One other note I forgot to add: Astrid found a target in the crowd. Her pickpocket helped get back the gold she passed on to the performers.

Current Health and gold status:

Sir Gareth 11/14 HP, 12g
The Professor 14/14, 8g
Tsavani 10/15, 18g
Syntax 15/15, 16g

Mori'an 15/16, 11g
Thudak 13/18, 20g
Lyric 13/14, 18g
Faris 14/14, 13g

Wolfrik 16/16, 0g
Zilmora 13/13, 4g
Astrid 9/13, 19g

I meet the gentlemen who sent me to Lord Whitmoore's manor. I will have a few words with them before collecting the reward I'm owed.

The result here depends on if the adventurer found or didn't find evidence, rigged or failed to rig the tournament.

For Sir Gareth, the Professor, Syntax, Faris, and Zilmora (all who found evidence the Tournament was rigged):

"Wow! We are impressed! Thank you for exposing this crime. We will take this evidence to the authorities. Once Lord Whitmoore is removed from office, the honor of the Tournament of Lords will once again be restored. Here is your gold. You have earned it."

Each of them get 10g for their efforts.

For Tsavani, Lyric, Wolfrik, and Astrid, all who did not find evidence:

"You are truly a naïve and gullible one, aren't you? Truth is, we asked several contestants to do this. You're the only one to accept it for such a noble cause and you're the only one to return back. You helped thin out our betting pool and proved you have what it takes to win this thing. Here's your gold. You've earned it."

Each of them gains 10g.

For Mori'an, who failed to rig the Tournament:

"Well, we're not surprised. We really didn't think you could do it. We were just testing you. We sent several contestants out to rig this tournament and we really didn't know who to place our bets on, but we do now. You're the only one with the guts to take on this mission and return. Congratulations. Here is your gold. You've earned it."

He adds 10g.

For Thudak, who did actually rig the Tournament:

"Way to go! I knew we chose the right person for this. Here is your gold. You've earned it."

Tudak gains 10g, but also gains 2 Tournament Points (to help achieve victory in the tournament).

So, being a bad guy appears to pay off.

Also, everyone could have afforded to take that rest. I'm only slightly concerned about Tsavani and Astrid at the moment.

Astrid took another 1g off of them as they walked away. Atta girl.

Monday, March 7

Apologies for the delay here. I hit the airport first thing yesterday morning. I completed the calendar task at the airport but I ran into problems here in California and didn't get around to posting the results.

The first event of the Tournament of Lords is archery. It is rather laid-back and less of spectacle since so many have signed up. This is a task meant to weed out a good chunk of the competition. To qualify for the next round, I have to meet some minimum criteria. I see many people walk away disappointed.

Take aim and let arrows fly. D20+DEX three times.

A min score of 40 is needed. In the event any of our adventurers don't get 40 in the first three tries, they can pay 1 gold to the official to get another shot.

7 of the 11 nail this without losing gold. I'll list them by the scores.

Wolfrik 59
Mori'an 54
Thudak 52
Lyric 49
Syntax 43
Zilmora 42
Astrid 41

Zilmora could have blown the doors off the competition using the spell quicken, but it wasn't necessary. What was necessary was Astrid and her luck. She got a 1 on the last roll, only to bounce back with a modified 6...just enough to clear the threshold.

Tsavani (52) and Sir Gareth (49) barely missed on the first three shots. The fourth secured it. Faris was way behind the mark but nailed the final shot as well (42) to be clear the minimum.

The Professor needed two shots as he got off to a terrible start (2, 5) and finally made it through.

Tuesday, March 8

The next event I must compete in to qualify for the finals is armored combat. Many back down due the risk of injury or death. I only need one victory to move on. I step into the ring to face my opponent. She has a stern look of determination on her face. She will not go easy on me or give up.

Engage in combat.

Sounds like combat will run differently today.

For today, combat will still require a good attack (d20+attack). A hit roll with damage after. Damage will continue to add per round until a total of 15 is dealt.

For defense, this is the odd thing, I'll roll d20 against the adventurer's defense. If the roll is lower than the defense, no damage is taken. If it's higher, they'll take d4 damage.

This battle was quick and easy for Sir Gareth (3 rounds total, no damage), Tsavani (3 rounds, used Death Touch), Mori'an (2 rounds), and Lyric (2 rounds with an insult to boot).

Zilmora took no damage, but only thanks to casting Arcane Armor. It took her 7 rounds to get past the warrior.

Thudak (-2HP), Faris (-2HP), Wolfrik (-3HP), Astrid (-4HP), and the Professor (-5HP) all took lumps but moved on.

The big loser here, though, was Syntax. Everyone's favorite robot could not land hits on the warrior. He took 9 damage before finally using his flamethrower skill to knock out the final 3 points of damage.

Syntax loses 3 gold as a result. He uses a health potion to recover 4HP. Astrid took a potion as well to recover 5.

This battle did see the reappearance of Faris's weasel...who popped out to help Faris land a blow.

Wednesday, March 9

The next event of the qualifying rounds of the Tournament garners many more spectators. Everyone enjoys a jousting competition.

Many who win this day but go no further will often become famous and recognized in their home towns. The skill to joust is perceived as a high honor in these lands.

I am to

1) Lance my enemy to knock them off their horse. D20+STR+Athlete.

Then

2) Avoid getting hit and stay on my horse. D20+DEX+Animal Tamer

Then

3) Endure many rounds of the joust. D20+CON+Athlete

1) The chance to lance (I know, I know) goes reasonably well. Zilmora (6) and Mori'an (3) are the only ways to fail miserably. They missed the target and get struck hard. -2HP.

The Professor (16), Wolfrik (21), and Astrid (17) get direct hits into their opponent's chest. The jouster is thrown off the horse. The crowd explodes in cheers and applause.

Sir Gareth (13), Tsavani (11), Syntax (8), Thudak (9, he was the favorite going into this with a +5 modifier), Lyric (12), and Faris (12) all scored hits but the resulting vibration stings to the core. The crowd cheers, but they'll never know the pain they are in. -1HP.

2) Avoid getting hit in this round. Sir Gareth (5), The Professor (3), and Faris (6) all got knocked off their horse and lose this round. -2HP.

Tsavani (25, the favorite with a +6 modifier), Thudak (21), Lyric (23), Wolfrik (22), Zilmora (21), and Astrid (21) all block the enemy's lance with their shield. They ride strong to the end.

Syntax (8) and Mori'an (14) got hit but managed to stay on to the horse. -1HP.


Without a doubt a good round for most.

3) Endure many rounds of jousting. The Professor (0), Thudak (7), and Zilmora (6) grow tired from the many rounds while wearing the heavy armor in the hot sun. It takes a toll. -2HP.

Sir Gareth (14) fares a bit better, but still struggles. -1HP.

Tsavani (21), Syntax (17), Mori'an (21), Lyric (16), Faris (17), Wolfrik (22), and Astrid (20) all pace themselves through the day. They never wear down.

Another great round.

My record keeping might be off, but in terms of today it appears Wolfrik and Astrid were damage free and the big winners. Both had modifiers that helped in one or all areas, but their rolls came in such a way it wasn't needed.

Wolfrik no damage taken
Astrid no damage taken

Tsavani -1HP
Lyric -1HP

Syntax -2HP

Mori'an -3HP
Thudak -3HP
Faris -3HP

Sir Gareth -4HP
The Professor -4HP
Zilmora -4HP

Sir Gareth recovers 6hp with a potion.
Professor recovers 4hp with a potion.
Thudak recovers 5hp with a potion.

Characters are running out of potions, so this Tournament may eventually weed one or two of them out.

I got tied up with flying home. I'll post yesterday's action and today's action shortly.

Thursday, March 10

The final qualifying round is a magic challenge. Many come to spectate this event. Kids enjoy seeing rare magic. Adults gauge their betting chances for the rest of the Tournament. I stand on the field ready to blast targets with fireballs, transform animals, levitate objects, and anything else asked for.

1) Choose the right spells for the task. D20+INT+Student

2) Channel arcane energy for each spell. D20+WIS+Arcane Adept

3) Put on a good show for the crowd. D20+CHA

Choose the right spells. For The Professor (7) and Mori'an (5), perhaps they were just nervous. Instead of transforming a chicken, they hit it with a fireball. This close range action ends up hurting them as well. -2HP.

Sir Gareth (9), Tsavani (13), Syntax (9), Zilmora (9), and Astrid (11) had a task to destroy dummy targets. They instead levitated them. Realizing the mistake, they sent the targets high into the air so they'd crash back down and be destroyed. A great adjustment, but one that ends up costing them 1HP as they're hit with some of the debris as it shot out.

Thudak (17), Lyric (17), Faris (16), and Wolfrik (16) exhibited perfect control and magical knowledge during this challenge. No issues at all.

Channel arcane energy. Sir Gareth (5), Mori'an (4), and Lyric (1) had spells backfired. The uncontrolled energy damaged them instead of being controlled. -2HP.

The Professor (10), Tsavani (12), Faris (10), Wolfrik (12), and Astrid (12) struggled to maintain concentration. Eventually they're mentally fatigued and get small dose of the energy backfeeding into themselves. -1HP.

Syntax (17), Thudak (16), and Zilmora (16) have a perfect balance of concentration and skill. No issues.

Put on a good show. Zilmora and Syntax provide impressive performances. Adding the right amount of flair and drama to work up the crowd. The judges clearly enjoyed the show.

Tsavani, Mori'an, and Wolfrik gave an entertaining show, but a bit more color and spark would have really pleased the audience.

The rest just didn't really impress. They accomplished the tasks, perhaps with a mistake or two along the way, but nothing to write home about.

They all move on to the next round, but Tsavani and Mori'an each take a health potion to recover 5HP.

Friday, March 11

The final events of the Tournament of Lords have begun. The first is a hectic free for all combat. I and the other contestants are pitted against each other in the colosseum.

Of note, I'll be up against a fighter, a champion, and a FLIPPING TIGER.

Combat tonics, aimed to help provide a boost for hitting the opponent, were consumed (and needed) by The Professor and Tsavani. Astrid used a Dragon Fire potion to ensure damage. Sir Gareth depleted his spell points ensuring hits and damage were enough. Faris used her precise aim. Syntax used 10 of his 23g to ensure victory as well. I went all out to ensure victory here because each kill represented a tournament point.

The results were fantastic. Sir Gareth, Tsavani, Syntax, Mori'an, Lyric, Zilmora, and Astrid all killed their opponents and gained 3 tournament points.

The Professor, Faris, and Wolfrik each managed 2 kills and two tournament points. Faris and Wolfrik each took a point of damage as well.

Thudak, who rigged the tournament before it started and had 3 tournament points to start, had the worst day. 4 points of damage taken, 1 kill. Fortunate for him, the tiger had finished the other two off before Thudak took it out. Thudak is even with the others at 3 tournament points now.

Faris, as a result of the damage, went ahead and took a health potion and received 3HP.

Saturday/Sunday, March 12/13

I mount a chariot with the other contestants and begin racing around the arena. This is as much for show as it is to eliminate more contestants. The chariots are moving fast while spears fly through the air to try and cut down competitors.

1) Pull ahead in the race. D20+WIS+Animal Trainer

2) Avoid the hazards that could take me out. D20+DEX

The Professor (17), Mori'an (19), Lyric (22), and Wolfrik (18) all pull ahead in the race. Impressive speed and excellent maneuvering through the crowd. While they gain 2 tournament points, they're now targets and suffer -2 to the next roll.

Sir Gareth (8), Syntax (8), Faris (11), Zilmora (11), and Astrid (13) all maintain their position in the middle of the pack. They gain a tournament point. Syntax used tinkerer to pull into this position.

Tsavani (7) and Thudak (3) got slowed down by the crowd and couldn't catch up. No tournament point for them, but they gain 2 to the next roll since they're not a target bringing up the rear.

Tsavani (17), Syntax (15), Mori'an (20), Thudak (23), Zilmora (22), and Astrid (19) all survive the demolition derby, so to speak. Making it to the end, they gain 1 tournament point. Syntax again used tinkerer to make it here...Syntax is down to 5g. Zilmora cast Quicken to get out of Dodge and away from everyone else.

Sir Gareth (9) and Faris (9) were knocked out by a combatant and lose 2HP.

The Professor (2), Lyric (3), and Wolfrik (7) all had their chariots flipped over and lose 3HP.

My unofficial tracker has the current tournament points:

Mori'an 6

Syntax 5
Lyric 5
Zilmora 5
Astrid 5

Sir Gareth 4
The Professor 4
Tsavani 4
Thudak 4
Wolfrik 4

Faris 3

Lyric used a potion to recover 4hp.

Wolfrik used a potion to recover 8hp.

Monday, March 14

The final contestants and I are pitted against a great surprise. As I catch my breath and await the final battle, the colosseum rumbles. The crowd goes silent. Then a deafening roar erupts from the tunnel as a gigantic cyclops lumbers into the arena.

Four rounds of combat. Let's go.

Zilmora was flawless today. Well timed attacks, enough damage to stun and survive. She provided the finishing blow to the cyclops and gained 5 tournament points. She was the the only adventurer to do so.

Tsavani and Astrid were just a tick behind Z. They both lost 1HP during the battle while also landing that finishing blow. They each gained 4 points.

Sir Gareth, Syntax, and Faris all killed the cyclops as well, but took more damage (-3, -3, and -2). They gained 3 points. Syntax spent 4g to make this happen. Faris used Nature's Healing after the battle and gained back 3HP.

The Professor, Mori'an, Lyric, and Wolfrik landed hits on the cyclops, but none of them actually killed it. That reward went to another competitor. 2 points each. The Professor lost 3hp. Mori'an (thanks to the bone shield spell), Lyric, and Wolfrik each lost 2hp.

Which leaves Thudak.

Thudak went on the attack early but missed. He was hit by a boulder and lost 2hp. He landed his next blow and stunned the cyclops briefly. The cyclops recovered quickly to avoid Thudak's next swing. It then smashed Thudak with it's mace and Thudak was suddenly down to 3hp. Thudak has one more shot to hit the cyclops. It's either the cyclops or Thudak. Thudak swings. Misses. The cyclops does not miss. It pulls Thudak apart as the battle ends.

RIP, Thudak. I guess cheaters don't win.

Zilmora 10

Astrid 9

Mori'an 8
Syntax 8
Tsavani 8

Lyric 7
Sir Gareth 7

The Professor 6
Wolfrik 6
Faris 6

Thudak 5 (RIP)

Tuesday, March 15

Level Up

I've gained enough experience to increase my hero's level. Take a Rest as well.

Sorry, Thudak. You were one HP from making it.

All heroes will move to level 3. I will be able to spend two points improving their traits. I'll try and provide character updates for the 10 after the rest/traits are adjusted. Each character will have a few new things about them as well.

Sir Gareth Stalworth. I decided to improve each character's best and worst trait. +1 to STR and INT for Gareth. Divine grace granting a reroll is a big deal.

Sir Gareth Stalworth
Level 3

Str +3
Dex 0 (+1)
Con +1
Int 0
Wis 0
Cha 0

Virtue +3

Gold 21

HP 17/17 (18/18 with Belt of Champ)
Atk +4
Def 15
Dmg 2D6

Abilities
Intimidating, +2 to threaten and intimidate.
Athlete, +2 to overcome physical and athletic hurdles.
Survivalist, +2 to survive while traveling.
Investigator, +2 to rolls to search and investigate.
Persuasive, +2 to rolls to persuade or convince.
Divine Grace: Once/page: reroll any die roll and take the new result.
Spell Points: 6
Spells: Divine Strike (1SP add current virtue to all attack rolls this page), Smite (1SP add current virtue to all damage rolls this page), Healing Light (1SP restore health by amount of current virtue).

Equipment and Loot:
Antidote
Health Potion (2D4)
Ration
Aged Wine (D6 Charisma for page)
Belt of the Champ (+1HP, +1 DEX

The Professor got an improvement to Wisdom and Constitution. He gets a reroll ability as well, but it will cost him a spell point.

Professor Trynnicus Wyvern
Level 3

Str 0
Dex 0 (+1)
Con 0
Int +2
Wis +3
Cha -1

Virtue +3

Gold 16

HP 18/18
Atk +4
Def 14 (+1)
Dmg 2D8

Abilities
Arcane Adept, +2 to handle or deal with magic.
Investigator, +2 to search or investigate.
Student, +2 to recall history or knowledge.
Firestorm, Once/page, D6 to a single damage roll
Lightning, Once/page, D6 to a single attack roll
Spell Points: 6
Spells: Stone Skin (1SP to reduce 4 points damage to 0, per page), Leaf on the Wind (1SP to gain +2 def/page), Channel Elements (1SP to reroll a die roll and take the new result).

Equipment and Loot:
1 ration
1 antidote
1 Dragon Fire (D4 damage for page)
Champion Shield, +1 DEF, +1 DEX

Tsavani increased her Dexterity to +4 (+5 overall) and her Charisma to -1.

Tsavani Moonchaser
Level 3

Str 0
Dex +4 (+5)
Con 0
Int 0
Wis +1
Cha -1

Virtue +3

Gold 27

HP 19/19
Atk +4
Def 14
Dmg 2D6

Abilities
Animal Tamer, +2 to train or handle animals
Danger Sense, +2 to avoid traps or surprises
Stealthy, +2 to sneak or remain hidden
Athlete, +2 to overcome physical and athletic hurdles
Death Touch, Once/page, add d6 to a single damage roll
Fierce Strike, Once/page, add d6 to a single attack roll
Chi Points: 4
Chi: Harmony, 1 Chi to remove poison or cursed condition
Chi: Evasion, 1 Chi to gain +4 defense this page.
Chi: Tranquility, 1 Chi to ignore all effects of Restrained, Weakened, Frightened, and Confused for the page.

Equipment and Loot:
1 health potion (2d4 HP)
1 Dragon Fire (D4 damage for page)
Utensils (10g)
Aged Wine (d6 Charisma for page)
Champion Shield, +1 DEF, +1 DEX

Syntax increases Intelligence to +3 and Wisdom to -1. He gains the elixir ability to essentially regenerate health from gold spent. Love this bot. Tool Expert...I passed on these tools previously, but I'll have to pick them up next time.

Syntax 12B047-2
Level 3

Str +1
Dex +1 (+2)
Con +1
Int +3
Wis -1
Cha -1

Virtue +2

Gold 5

HP 19/19 (20 with Belt)
Atk +4
Def 14
Dmg 2D6

Abilities
Locksmith, +2 to pick a lock.
Student, +2 to recall history or knowledge.
Investigator, +2 to search or investigate.
Tool Expert, Lockpick Tools and Map & Compass give an additional +3 bonus.
Artillerist (1 gold, add 1 to attack roll)
Tinkerer (1 gold, add 1 to any D20 roll on traits (ex: Str)
Flamethrower (1 gold, add 1 to a damage roll)
Armorer (2 gold, add 1 def for this page)
Elixir (1 gold, add 1 HP, up to max HP)

Equipment and Loot:
1 antidote
Utensils (10g)
Book (10g)
Belt of the Champ

Mori'an is my new default bad guy since Thudak is gone. He'll take the road less traveled. We'll try and keep Syntax more neutral as well. He adds 1 to Intelligence and Charisma. He adds a new spell of blindness, which essentially guarantees a stealth win.

Mori'an Corvus
Level 3

Str 0
Dex +1 (+2)
Con +2
Int +3
Wis -1
Cha -1

Virtue 0

Gold 12

HP 21/21
Atk +3 (+4)
Def 13
Dmg 2D10

Abilities
Arcane Adept, +2 to handle or deal with magic
Student, +2 recall history or knowledge
Leach Life, Kill an enemy and regain 1HP, up to max.
Blood Ritual, Once/page, reduce HP by 1 gain +2 on a roll.
Spell Points: 5
Spells: Bone Shield (1SP +2 def this page), Frighten (1SP, Add 20 to an intimidation roll), Drain Life (1SP, Additional D6 in damage. Gain that same amount in HP, up to the max), Blindness (1 SP, Add 20 to stealth roll).

Equipment and Loot:
1 aged wine (d6 cha for page)
1 antidote
1 health potion (2d4 HP)
book (10g)
Necklace of Luck

Lyric, the infamous bard, will gain a point to Strength and Charisma. He gains the pickpocket ability...while this can ruin his virtue, I'm glad to have a second pickpocket. It's a fun mechanic. Full disclosure, his level 2 stats earlier were wrong. Not sure how I got them wrong, but I can confirm these are correct.

Lyric Stringwood
Level 3

Str 0
Dex +2 (+3)
Con -1
Int 0
Wis 0
Cha +3

Virtue +3

Gold 28

HP 17/17 (18)
Atk +5
Def 14
Dmg D12

Abilities
Persuasive, +2 to persuade or convince
Athlete, +2 to overcome physical and athletic hurdles
Animal Tamer, +2 to train or handle animals
Charm, Once/rest, Add 15 to charisma roll.
Pickpocket, Gain d4 in gold. On a 4, lose 1 virtue.
Insult, once/page add D6 to any damage roll.
Sleepy Melody, Once/page, add D4 to any attack roll.
Dazzle, once per rest, add +2 def for the page.
Healing Melody, Once/rest, Restore D6 in HP.

Equipment and Loot:
1 Antidote
1 Aged Wine (d6 CHA for page)
1 Potion (2D4 HP)
1 Utensils (10g)
Belt of the Champ

Faris gains Wisdom and Intelligence here. She gets a pet eagle as well. That sounds awesome. Hope we use it often.

Faris Leafwind
Level 3

Str 0
Dex +2 (+3)
Con 0
Int -1
Wis +3
Cha 0

Virtue +3

Gold 22

HP 17/17
Atk +4
Def 16, (17)
Dmg 2D6

Abilities
Survivalist, +2 to survive while traveling
Animal Tamer, +2 to train or handle animals
Danger Sense, +2 to avoid traps and surprises
Athlete, +2 to physical and athletic hurdles
Nature's Healing, Once per rest, restore D4 health up to max
Animal: Weasel, Once/page, gain +2 to a single attack roll.
Precise Aim, Once per rest, Add +10 to one attack roll and +d4 to the damage roll
Animal: Eagle, Once/page, gain +2 to a single damage roll.

Equipment and Loot:
Antidote
Champion Shield

Wolfrik gains strength and charisma. His cool new toy is a prayer for Favor, which allows him to add 4 to any roll.

Wolfrik Grayhand
Level 3

Str +3
Dex +1 (+2)
Con 0
Int 0
Wis 0
Cha 0

Virtue +3

Gold 10

HP 21/21
Atk +4
Def 15 (16)
Dmg 2D8

Abilities
Intimidating, +2 to threaten or intimidate
Athlete, +2 to overcome physical and athletic hurdles
Survivalist, +2 to survive while traveling
Divine Smite, Once/page, add d4 to a single damage roll
Healing Prayer, Once/rest, restore d4 Health
Holy Strike, Once/page, add d4 to a single attack roll
Pray for Favor, 2x per rest, add 4 to any die roll

Equipment and Loot:
Antidote
Ration
Aged Wine (d6 CHA for page)
Book 10g
Champion Shield

Zilmora, the ELF CHAMP (since killing that Cyclops anyhow lol), gains 1 to Wisdom (honestly, your name includes Wise, shouldn't that have been higher?) and to Constitution. Two more spells designed to help her win almost any roll she absolutely needs.

Zilmora the Wise
Level 3

Str 0
Dex 0 (+1)
Con -1
Int +2
Wis +3
Cha 0

Virtue +3

Gold 14

HP 16/16
Atk +4 (+5)
Def 14
Dmg 2D10

Abilities
Arcane Adept, +2 to handle and deal with magic
Investigator, +2 to search and investigate
Student, +2 to recall history or knowledge
Illusion, Once/page add D4 to an attack roll
Force Bolt, once/page add d4 to a damage roll
SP: 6 SP
Spell: Arcane Armor, 1SP gain +6 defense this page
Spell: Quicken, 1SP gain 15 to all Dex rolls this page
Spell: Enchant, 1SP gain 15 to all CHA rolls this page
Spell: Divination, 1SP gain 15 to all WIS and INT rolls this page

Equipment and Loot:
Health Potion (2D4 HP)
Antidote
Aged Wine (d6 CHA for page)
Utensils (10g)
Book (10g)
Necklace of Luck

Astrid improves Wisdom and Dexterity. Overall, not a lot to be excited about except general improvements.

Astrid Swiftblade
Level 3

Str -1
Dex +4 (+5)
Con 0
Int 0
Wis -1
Cha +2

Virtue +1

Gold 30

HP 16/16 (17)
Atk +4
Def 15
Dmg 2D6

Abilities
Stealthy, +2 to sneak and remain hidden
Persuasive, +2 to persuade or convince
Lucky, once/page, if you roll a 1 on a D20, reroll and take the new result
Pickpocket, Once/page when encountering a non enemy character, gain d4 in gold. If d4 is 4, lose 1 in Virtue.
Dodge, Once/page take 1/2 damage from a single source, round up
Locksmith, +2 to pick a lock
Sneak Attack, Once/page, add d4 to a single attack roll.
Athlete, +2 to rolls to overcome physical and athletic hurdles.
Poison Dagger, once/page, add d4 to a single damage roll

Equipment and Loot:
antidote
health potion (2d4 HP)
Aged wine (d6 CHA for page)
Combat tonic (d4 attack for page)
Belt of the Champion

Wednesday, March 16

The people cheer as victory ceremonies have begun. The festival has come to a close and everyone has shown up today to view the winner of the Tournament of Lords. There is music in the air and happy faces everywhere.

Zilmora, Astrid, Mori'an, Syntax, and Tsavani are all crowned champion! The crowd cheers and shouts their name. People bow as they walk by. Kids ask for their autograph. They have people ask to serve under them. Their title comes with a monetary award of 20g. They're told they will meet with the King's Council later to discuss land and duties.

The others (Lyric, Sir Gareth, The Professor, Wolfrik, and Faris) celebrate a near victory. A close finish, but they were just behind the combatant that was crowned the champion. Getting to this position is still a big deal. They have pride in their achievement but also disappointment for being unable to be crowned the champion. They're sure to be the prime choice for next year's tournament. They earn 15 gold.

It should be noted, that had Thudak somehow won that final battle, he'd have still finished in a near victory position. He had a poor tournament overall, even with the tournament rigged in his favor.

There were three other scenarios we didn't visit as the result of the tournament.

0-3 tournament points would have net 5 gold as an able participant.

4-5 would have made them an honorable contender and 10 gold.

Perfection (11+) was possible without rigging, but required a clean sweep of all the activities. Zilmora was close at 10, but not finishing at the front of the pack in the chariot race cost her. A perfect tournament would lead to rumors that the Tournament was rigged or that there was a cheating scandal. The reward would have been 25 gold.

Thursday, March 17

A loud bang, like an explosion of a thousand blacksmith hammers, is heard from above. The sky quickly grows dark and everyone looks up. A shockwave whips across the crowds with many being knocked down. The clouds begin to swirl and a loud wailing can be heard as I watch tiny objects fall from above. As they get closer to the ground, I can tell some of these objects are large stones...and others appear to be people??!!

1) Endure the shockwave. D20+CON+Danger Sense
then
2) Avoid the falling debris. D20+DEX+Danger Sense

The unexpected shockwave that came from the sky isn't just knocking people down with physical force. As it cascades across the crowd, it is sapping the crowd's energy.

The Professor (2), Mori'an (7), Lyric (3), and Zilmora (0) all grow weak and light headed. They drop to the floor and hit their head on a rock. They lose 1HP and take a -2 penalty to the next roll.

Sir Gareth (14), Faris (11), and Astrid (13) all take a fall before no damage. They also get a -2 to the next roll.

Tsavani (17), Syntax (16), and Wolfrik (19) were able to brace themselves from falling over. They control their breathing until the moment passes (how does Syntax do that?).

Before the roll, each adventurer now has an option to try and save others over themselves. Choosing to do so gains 1 virtue but results in a -4 to the roll. I'm playing most of these with good virtue, so everyone but Mori'an and Syntax will choose to help others. Mori'an will be our default bad guy since Thudak dropped out. Syntax will now trend that way. Astrid and Lyric will always try for virtue points, but will always take a chance to pickpocket and potentially lose that virtue.