Act 1.1 - The Silver Wood

Oct 9, 2025 2:19 pm
Act 1.1 - The Silver Wood
You are a newly-formed band of heroes who have come to Broadhurst, a quiet farming village in the barony of Dalrath, seeking adventure. Whispers of bandits on the road and monsters lurking in the Silver Wood suggest that someone, somewhere, must be in need of help.

Yet when you arrive, the townsfolk offer little more than polite nods and mumbled greetings. Broadhurst's inhabitants are hesitant to speak with strangers.

Now, you find yourselves in the common room of the Feather Bed Inn—the only inn in town. The smell of stew and ale drifts through the air as you settle at a wooden table. Across the room, a young man in gleaming plate armor, his expression locked in a permanent scowl, converses quietly with an older woman in mage’s robes, her silver-streaked hair hinting at decades of experience.

Suddenly, the door to the inn slams open and a wild-eyed woman in her late thirties wearing a soot-stained apron with a large gash on her head rushes in. She falls to her knees before the armored and robed humans nearby:

"Please! My daughter was taken on the road by goblins! I know the Gilded Hand can help.’"

The robed woman coldly says, "We don’t work for free." She and her armored companion, adventurers of the Gilded Hand, leave.

The bleeding, panicked mother turns to you, desperation on her face.

"I’ve nowhere else to turn. You must help me get my Violet back! Please!"

About an hour later...
https://i.imgur.com/xB0Bb72.png

The smell of stew and ale from the Feather Bed Inn has long since faded behind you. Ashleigh — Violet's mother and the town's blacksmith — leads you along the dirt road that winds out of Broadhurst and into the looming trees of the Silver Wood. The scent of pine and damp earth fills your lungs as the village disappears from view.

Her wound is bound now, but her face remains pale with fear. Every few moments, she glances nervously toward the shadowed treeline.
OOC:
Time to introduce your characters! Please tell us more about them...

What was it that made you agree to help Ashleigh so quickly? Was it compassion, greed, duty—or something else?

Did you ask her for anything in return before you set out? She doesn't have money, but perhaps you asked for a promise, a favor, or even a weapon?

As the group walks, how does your character look like? How does they carry themselves? What do the others see in your demeanor—calm focus, nervous tension, grim determination, excitement?

Describe your character feelings. What are they thinking about as they follow this desperate mother into the unknown?

As you travel, what questions do you ask Ashleigh or your companions? Let's roleplay that conversation!
Oct 9, 2025 2:32 pm
Shrike is a human, unadorned with simple clothes, with the skin and build of somebody who works the field and most of their strength was gained through toil.
Shrike didn't ask for anything from the mother, simply believing that his good will be returned by those in the community. It's all he's ever known, you all just do what you can or you don't make it. Plus you dont take what someone can't afford to help them keep somethubg they can't put a price on.
Oct 9, 2025 8:21 pm
Malfina sat at a table enjoying some stew when the mother burst in and asked for help. Some ponce tossers demanded payment up front, but the mother had nothing. She was distraught. Fortunately, Malfina and several others stepped up to help. After all, Malfina was a mom herself, so she understood. Her son Malfred was off on his own now, a successful merchant in a nearby town, but Malfina still feels that call to adventure. Malfred didn't inherit a flame soul, so he couldn't call the flames like she could; and with that flame soul comes a wanderlust, a fire inside that makes it hard to settle down and rest. Malfina asked for nothing from Ashleigh, though she night very well avail herself of a discount after the fact.

So Malfina was on the road again, looking for excitement, when excitement walked in and asked for help. Needless to say, she agreed! Malfina walked along the path following Ashleigh, and enjoying her walk in there afternoon air. She was a Polder standing at about three feet tall-- short by human standards, but perfectly average by Polder ones. She sported blue wavy hair down past her shoulders, and pale skin, with the ceremonial markings on her face of one touched by the flame. Similarly, she wore the orange and red robes of one who worships the flame, though in these parts her kind were so small as to be considered a cult more than a religion. She carries a ceremonial staff with her as well.

She smiled and chatted with the others, getting to know them, her mood light and her personality bubbly. She had traveled to this land with her son, helping him establish his business in a nearby city. Once he was all set up and business was booming, Malfina decided to go on one of her wanders, which is what brought here to that tavern today. She is excited to have a prospect for some adventure, a chance to "feel the flames", she says. Indeed, she seems like a fairly typical bubbly, warm polder mom, except for her strange fascination with fire.

heheh fire! Fire!

Ashleigh

htech

Oct 9, 2025 10:38 pm
For a few minutes, the only sounds are the whisper of wind through the trees and the uneven rhythm of footsteps. Then Ashleigh breaks the silence, glancing sidelong at the Polder woman padding along beside her.

"You…" she starts, her voice a little hoarse from fear and the wound she took. She swallows. "You’re a flamecaller, right? I saw the markings on your face. You— you can use fire? I… I’ve never met one in person. I heard stories when I was a girl. Flamecallers who could light the forest like a lantern, burn away the beasts that lurk in the dark. Is that… true? Could you really do that?"

She slows just enough to keep closer to Malfina, her voice dropping lower, almost pleading now.

"Could you protect her, if it comes to it? My Violet?"
OOC:
Malfina, what do you do?
Ashleigh
Oct 10, 2025 2:45 am
OOC:
PS, I specifically did not talk because my character's presence is 0 so it didnt seem like he would speak first.
Oct 10, 2025 2:53 am
Malfina walks along when Ashleigh speaks to her about being a flamecaller. She holds up a hand, scarred from burns, and says, "I will try, ma’am, but the fire is fickle and makes no promises. I can tell you, though, that if I cannot save her, I will burn those who harmed her to ash."
Oct 10, 2025 4:38 am
Walking slightly behind the stricken mother and polder, the orc can't help but smile at the little one's mention of vengeance by flame. "You would make a fine acolyte of Kul, the Father of Flames. Perhaps we shall talk after this is over."

To Vordokov, it wasnt even a question of whether to join or not when the woman burst into the tavern with her story of a kidnapped daughter. Inaction was anathema to Kul's teachings. The hunt was on.

And it couldn't have come soon enough. He had felt he had done all he could assisting at the church and was getting a bit stir crazy. When the clergy leader had asked for a volunteer to travel to and report on the recent monster activities in Broadhurst, Vordokov damned near demanded it be him. Clearly, Grole and Kul had listened.

Now, with an easy, sure-footed gait, gnarled, wooden staff in hand, the orc's hazel eyes catch those of Ashleigh. In an assertive tone, he asks "Tell me, how many goblins were there? Was there a leader?"

Ashleigh

htech

Oct 10, 2025 8:17 am
Malfina says:
"I will try, ma’am, but the fire is fickle and makes no promises. I can tell you, though, that if I cannot save her, I will burn those who harmed her to ash."
"I’ve heard stories about your kind," she says, almost whispering. "About flamecallers."

She swallows and looks ahead, eyes fixed on the dark treeline in the distance where the tomb lies hidden.

"They say you can set whole trees alight. That the fire answers you like a hunting hound. Is that true?"
After her answer, Ashleigh turns toward Vordokov.
Vordokov says:
"Tell me, how many goblins were there? Was there a leader?"
"A dozen of ’em. Came out of the trees like rats. We were walkin’ past that old tomb in the Silver Wood — the one folks whisper about, the one from long before my mother’s mother’s time. We never go near it. Folks say it’s haunted."

She glances down at the packed dirt path beneath her boots, jaw tight. "They came out of nowhere and snatched Violet. I fought tooth and nail, but I can’t swing a sword. I just make ’em. They gave me this—" She touches the bandage at her temple, wincing at the dull throb beneath. "—and left me for dead."

Ashleigh looks back up at Vordokov. "If there was a leader, I didn’t see ’em. They all looked the same to me in the chaos. All green. But I saw where they took her— into the tomb..."
OOC:
What do you do?
Ashleigh
Oct 10, 2025 8:28 am
OOC:
PhoenixScientist says:
PS, I specifically did not talk because my character's presence is 0 so it didnt seem like he would speak first.
Yup. No problems =)
Oct 10, 2025 5:06 pm
Malfina shrugs and says, "I serve the flame. It usually comes when I call, but I am not its master—not truly. Perhaps someday, but for now I know to respect the flame."

At Ashleigh's words Malfina begins to look around, up in the trees, for goblins. Do I know how far this Temple is? Are we close?
Oct 10, 2025 8:26 pm
Obsidian was downing a mug of ale washing down the dust from the road having just arrived in town. It was quite the journey from his homeland. As the lady entered the inn asking help to get her Violet back Obsidian stood up"I will help you lass, goblins are a bane in this world and I have had a few dealing with them in my past."

He is quite a sight to behold with dark stone skin and blood red hair and beard. He is quite large for a dwarf and his work in the family stone quarry has made solid as rock. He picks up his huge maul and says"Lead the way. You are in good hands."
Oct 12, 2025 10:56 am
Marbin was just about to relieve some poor farmer of his coin purse when Ahleigh burst in. At first he scoffed at the thought of coming along, especially when it became apparent she had no coin herself. Then as one by one people volunteered, a thought struck the pickpocket. He'd tag along, stay at the edge, share in the glory and once back in town he'd leverage the tale for free drinks and food for a few days. Besides goblins were cowardly creatures, if a half decent force showed up they were as likely to give up the girl and flee for easier loot. The dwarf alone could probably scare them away.

"You know what they wanted with her?" Marbin wonders. "I thought goblins were more drawn to shiny things than human prisoners."
Oct 12, 2025 7:26 pm
Marbin says:
"You know what they wanted with her? I thought goblins were more drawn to shiny things than human prisoners."
"I have no idea," she says, sad and worried.
A few minutes later, Ashleigh leads you off the road and down a small, overgrown footpath. She stops you just ahead of where the path opens into a clearing.

Dead ahead, a mossy, stone doorway opens to stairs leading down into the earth. Deep carved letters at the top of the doorway announce the name "Delius."


Overlays
Blue: Starting area for PCs and Ashleigh.
OOC:

Ashleigh's story about goblins makes everyone nervous as you approach the tomb. It’s time to make your first test.
[ +- ] How to roll
[ +- ] Naercalad
When everyone has rolled, we’ll use the highest total among the group to determine who acts first (PCs or Goblins).
[ +- ] Outcomes
Simultaneously, please choose one grid coordinate for your character to start. We will usually do this every combat. Even if you succeeded in this Test, a few goblins may act before your PC is able to!
[ +- ] House Rule: Accumulated Director Turns
OOC:
TL;DR
1. Roll for Intuition (Alertness), and;
2. Choose a starting grid location within the blue area for your character (ex: J26).
3. When everyone has rolled, I'll describe the scene;
4. Let's Draw Steel!
Oct 12, 2025 7:46 pm
Shrike will move up next to the tree nearest the enterance (J13), able to react quickly and be near ot at the front of the group.

Rolls

Alertness - (2D10+4)

(104) + 4 = 18

Oct 12, 2025 8:17 pm
Obsidian with his nasty maul in hand will move forward to n13 to form a point for the others.
OOC:
Ouch
Last edited October 12, 2025 8:18 pm

Rolls

Alertness - (2d10+1)

(34) + 1 = 8

Oct 12, 2025 9:13 pm
OOC:
Actually, the starting area is way behind (in blue, rows 26 and 27). You will be able to advance when combat starts, so I kept your column and changed the rows in the image below.

Do you wanna start somewhere else?
https://i.imgur.com/837Aj6m.jpeg
Oct 12, 2025 9:29 pm
OOC:
oops, missed that, give me M26.
Oct 12, 2025 10:12 pm
Malfina approaches the area, feeling the tension in the air. She slows and looks for trouble...
OOC:
And I'll take L26. Thanks!

Rolls

Intuition with Alertness - (2d10+2+2)

(510) + 4 = 19

Oct 12, 2025 11:54 pm
PhoenixScientist says:
OOC:
oops, missed that, give me M26.
Sure!

https://i.imgur.com/OLwyzM7.jpeg
Oct 13, 2025 1:04 am
Vordokov moves behind the others, keeping an eye on Ashleigh to make sure she doesn't do anything rash now that they were at the tomb's entrance.
OOC:
I'll move to M27
Last edited October 13, 2025 1:05 am

Rolls

Intuition - (2d10+2)

(22) + 2 = 6

Oct 13, 2025 1:34 pm
Marbin stands ready with a throwing knife in hand, he stand behind the dwarf (N27) scanning the area for danger.

Rolls

Intuition - (2d10+1)

(55) + 1 = 11

Oct 13, 2025 1:51 pm
You notice that there are 8 goblins nearby that hiss and chatter with their guttural tongues as they crouch in the bushes and twisted tree roots surrounding the Tomb. They were trying to ambush you with their spears, but ⭐ thanks to Malfina and Shrike you're faster
OOC:
Every round, you can take four different actions: a main action, a move action, a maneuver and a triggered action.

We will handle the triggered action later (you don't start this tutorial with any abilities that grant them)

So, for now, please post your Main Action, Move, and Maneuver (or specify if you’re skipping any). You can also turn your main action into a move action or into a maneuver, so that your turn can alternatively consist of two move actions and a maneuver, or two maneuvers and a move action.

You can (should?) describe your actions cinematically if you like — in that case, use OOC for the actual mechanics.

Who’s up first? All PCs can post
Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Combat actions
[ +- ] Move action
[ +- ] Abilities
Battlemap
https://i.imgur.com/CR9xAwz.jpeg
Overlays in the map above
Orange: Difficult terrain (to prevent clutter, only the nearby squares are highlighted here. For the remaining areas, please see the tactical analysis, below)

Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Objects and terrain
[ +- ] Target: One Creature or Object
[ +- ] Difficult Terrain
[ +- ] Cover
[ +- ] Monster Labels on the Map
Tutorial: Tactical Analysis
[ +- ] Warning
The canopy has been stripped away on the map below, revealing the thick, gnarled trunks beneath. These trees broad bases offer Cover from ranged attacks coming from the opposite side. See the white arrows on the map below for an example of positioning that provides cover for the goblins

On the other hand, the uneven roots and fallen branches make the surrounding spots difficult terrain (highlighted in orange) to enter. There are no extra costs to exit them.

Higher ground, shaded in increasingly darker greens, rises in gentle slopes throughout the map. A sharp-eyed archer or spellcaster there gains a tactical advantage (Edge), firing down at anyone caught in the lower ground. See the black arrows on the map below for an example of positioning that provides Malfina with this edge

At the heart of the map looms the Delian Tomb, an ancient stone monument that completely blocks line of sight for anyone trying to target through it. Adventurers can climb to its roof, 3 squares above the ground, for commanding sightlines and elevated position, but the slick moss and crumbling edges make it a tricky perch—one wrong step could be costly. The map also reveals the Tomb’s interior: a dark, echoing chamber with a staircase leading downward into the earth. Though the entrance seems deceptively quiet, the stairs are the most natural entry point (or exit route) to whatever lies beneath.



New ability
Return to Formlessness
@Drgwen, Malfina is now gaining Return to Formlessness (see it under "Main actions", in your character sheet). If it makes tactical sense, you can burn, break, or reshape parts of the environment. As we progress, more abilities will come online, giving everyone even more tactical options — but even now, you can start thinking creatively about how to use what you’ve got.
Oct 13, 2025 4:40 pm
Shrike is going to Advance to H22, then Charge at W1.b, making a free strike when he reaches the Goblin; His shoulder drives i to the Goblin. He follows that up bu a double palm thrust making a knockback maneuver to slam the goblin into the tree it is skulking under.
OOC:
Edit: Shrike's Free strike will do 7 damage and the Knockback will slide it 4 squares into the tree. Which should translate to 2+1=6 more damage (this calculation assumes a stability of 0) (Slamming Into Objects, pg 272).
Note: Since my discipline is 2 my Knockback gets +2, and since I am a Null I can use my INT instead of MIG.

Shrike Stamina: 27/27 Discipline: 2 Victories: 0
Last edited October 13, 2025 5:24 pm

Rolls

Free Strike - (2D10+2)

(67) + 2 = 15

Knockback - (2D10+2)

(57) + 2 = 14

Oct 13, 2025 5:58 pm
Shrike moves with the straight, unstoppable momentum of a man who’s spent a lifetime pushing through hardship. He surges forward and dirt sprays behind him as his boots pound the ground, the goblin barely managing a snarl before Shrike’s shoulder crashes into it like a battering ram. The impact cracks like thunder through the clearing.

The goblin’s breath bursts out in a wet grunt as it’s lifted clean off its feet. Shrike doesn’t pause. He plants his boots, shifts his weight, and thrusts both palms forward. A ripple of invisible force surges outward slamming into the creature like a huge hammer.

The goblin hurtles backward, limbs flailing, before smashing into the tree it had been lurking. The impact sends a sharp crack echoing through the wood as the trunk splinters. Bark and leaves explode outward, showering the ground. A goblin-sized hole, faintly shimmering with psionic energy, marks the spot where it struck.
OOC:
After 3 squares of movement, the goblin took 5 damage and hurled through the tree (pg 272) You can push it 1 more square or leave it where it is.

Suggestion: Slamming into the other goblin so both creatures take 1 damage.

Shrike, what do you do?
https://i.imgur.com/07ABP79.jpeg

Meanwhile, two goblins on the eastern flank keep moving. While Shrike’s devastating charge draws attention to the center of the clearing, the pair creep forward, spears held tight in their clawed hands.
OOC:
Next PC! What do you do?
Stamina lost:
W1.b: 12
Oct 13, 2025 8:16 pm
OOC:
Love the suggestion, yeah it keeps moving to hit the ither goblin.
Oct 13, 2025 8:30 pm
Naercalad was contemplating the ale, trying to decide if it was worth tasting when the woman burst in. Hearing her story he recognized opportunity. Of course he would help and in doing so, demonstrate his leadership skills. Glory awaits.
OOC:
once we at the Battle, he'd take a position on the left. I think I have
[ +- ] Mark
I'll mark the nearest goblin and move to attack.

Rolls

The roll from earlier - (2d20+3)

(619) + 3 = 28

Oct 13, 2025 8:31 pm
OOC:
PhoenixScientist says:
Love the suggestion, yeah it keeps moving to hit the ither goblin.
Great. =)
https://i.imgur.com/07ABP79.jpeg
OOC:
Next PC! What do you do?
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 1
W1.b: 13
Oct 13, 2025 9:19 pm
OOC:
Esidrix says:
once we at the Battle, he'd take a position on the left. I think I have Mark.

I'll mark the nearest goblin and move to attack.
Sure! I added Naercalad to the grid, but I will need more specific information for his turn.

https://i.imgur.com/3x6P1eC.jpeg

What goblin, exactly, are you marking? How are you going to move forward? Please gimme the identification of the enemy and your path using the grid coordinates, like PhoenixScientist did. What do you mean by "move to attack"? Is it a free ranged strike? So, mark is a maneuver. You also have a main and move action remaining. =)

There are a ton of details in Draw Steel, as this is a tactical RPG system, and those details can be the difference between victory and defeat. Unlike other games, you can't just say "I attack the nearest enemy" because there isn't a simple and effective "attack" ability. Moreover, terrain, objects, position and other stuff matters.

I am looking forward for what ability you gonna use. Any questions or help needed, just ask. =)
Oct 13, 2025 10:52 pm
Seeing the goblins planning their ambush, Malfina smirks and says, "Ah ah ah... You won't get the jump on us that easily, my green friends..." She then moves to her right, staying behind the tree, until she sees two goblins off to the right. Then, somehow, suddenly, she disappears, only to reappear a short distance away, up a hill to the northeast! she then points at the two goblins to her north, and two gouts of flame erupt from her hands and bathe the two goblins in fiery death!
OOC:
At the beginning of her turn in combat, she gains 2 Essence. Her Move is 5, so she moves to Q25. She uses the Practical Magic Maneuver to teleport 2 squares, plus she spends 1 Essence to teleport one more, taking her from Q25 to T22, which puts her up on the hill equal to the two goblins W4.a and W4.b. As her Actin, she then uses Bifurcated Incineration on those two! Power Roll for the bifurcated incineration... Each goblin takes six fire damage! And that means I gain 1 Essence.
Last edited October 13, 2025 10:54 pm

Rolls

Power Roll - (2d10+2)

(55) + 2 = 12

Oct 13, 2025 10:57 pm
OOC:
I'll mark W1.b and I'm still trying to understand the Free attacks. I'll move 5 north and if possible take my free ranged attack on W1.b with my Longbow.
[ +- ] Ranged Weapon Free Strike

Rolls

Attack - (2d20)

(176) = 23

GM edit: Ranged Weapon Free Strike - (2d10+2)

(38) + 2 = 13

Oct 13, 2025 11:33 pm
OOC:
Esidrix, now you got this! =)

PS: Oops, almost. =) I fixed the range in your ranged free strike (probably my fault) it should have been 12 squares, so, yes, you can definitely hit W1.b.

But the dice is 2d10 not 2d20. I added them for you now. With the correct dice, now we can see the results: You did ✅ 8 damage.

And that's it for your turn. =)

Quick recap:
Move = Advance to H21
Maneuver = Marked W1.b
Main = Ranged Weapon Free Strike: Hit with 15 (I forgot the +2 for the edge) Result: Tier 2 (✅) = 8 damage.

OOC:
Continues in my next post, for the goblins
Oct 13, 2025 11:49 pm
OOC:
Flawless description and tactics, Drgwen. =)
The two goblins barely have time to think before Malfina’s flames engulf them. Fire blossoms in twin jets, searing across the clearing. The creatures shriek — high, piercing cries that echo through the trees — as the blaze dances along their ragged leathers. They thrash and roll, slapping at the fire until it gutters out, leaving them smoldering and blackened but still alive, their eyes wide with terror and hate.
Meanwhile, Naercalad strides forward, bow already drawn, his voice sharp and commanding. "Focus on the wounded one! Drop their numbers!"
OOC:
I took the liberty of adding the cinematic description of the Mark skill above. I usually won't speak for your characters, so please consider this just part of the tutorial. Don't worry, they'll be rare and end soon. =)
He then draws and releases the arrow in a single fluid motion. It whistles through the air and finds its mark — straight through the throat of the goblin Shrike had previously sent flying. The creature jerks once, gurgles, and collapses lifelessly against the shattered tree.
https://i.imgur.com/fQwP0mi.jpeg
OOC:
Continues in my next post
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 1
W4.a: 6
W4.b: 6
Oct 13, 2025 11:57 pm
Two of the goblins, howling with renewed fury, advance and charge Shrike head-on. Their bare feet slap the earth as they lower their crude spears and rush him. The first drives its spear into his side, just beneath his ribs. Pain lances through him, hot and sharp. A heartbeat later the second goblin jabs from the opposite side, the point biting into his shoulder. Blood spatters the dirt. They snarl and circle like wolves, their positions nearly boxing him in.
[ +- ] Goblin Warrior's Spear Charge (Main)
OOC:
Shrike, take 8 damage! Be careful or they will flank you!
Across the clearing, two more goblins peel away from the treeline and close in on Naercalad. One sprints ahead with a guttural scream, lunging with its spear. The point scrapes against his armor, glancing off but close enough to make him step back. The other lags just behind, feet pounding the earth as it races to join the attack, ready to strike in the next round.
OOC:
Naercalad, take 4 damage
https://i.imgur.com/qX9KCkR.jpeg
OOC:
Next PC! What do you do?
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 1
W4.a: 6
W4.b: 6

Rolls

W2.a Spear Charge - (2d10+2)

(47) + 2 = 13

W2.b Spear Charge - (2d10+2)

(82) + 2 = 12

W3.a Spear Charge - (2d10+2)

(84) + 2 = 14

Oct 14, 2025 12:09 am
Obsidian seeing Shrike move forward and Malfina disappear will rush forward and assist Shrike bolting forward to L20 then charge to K14 using free strike to hit W1.a with my maul then spinning to thrust the end of the handle in the gut for a knockback maneuver.
OOC:
I hope I did this right. First timer. Free strike=4 dam/ Knock back= push 1. Was I suppose to roll for ferocity?
Last edited October 14, 2025 12:14 am

Rolls

Free strike - (2d10+2)

(54) + 2 = 11

Knock back - (2d10+2)

(51) + 2 = 8

Oct 14, 2025 12:13 am
OOC:
Quote:
I hope I did this right.
You certainly did =)
Obsidian, your maul swings up as you close the distance on the nearest goblin. With a roar, you drive the weapon down, the steel head slamming into the creature’s head with crushing force.

You don’t give it a chance to recover. Spinning on your heel, you ram the thick end of the maul’s haft into its gut. The goblin doubles over, choking and clutching its stomach, spittle flying from between its jagged teeth.
OOC:
For the next one, you should describe where you pushed the goblin. But this time it won't matter, as it's now their turn.
But the little brute still has some fight left. Snarling, it lunges forward in a reckless counterattack, spear darting low and fast. The tip bites into your side, drawing a shallow but stinging line of blood as it shoves itself back into the fray, refusing to fall.
OOC:
Obsidian, take 3 damage
https://i.imgur.com/YoxdUCn.jpeg
OOC:
Quote:
Was I suppose to roll for ferocity?
Please do. For now, it won't make any difference, I guess, but its good practice.

You also get another ferocity because the goblin hurt you. =)
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W4.a: 6
W4.b: 6
OOC:
Vordokov, Marbin, what do you do?

Rolls

W1.a Spear Charge - (2d10+2)

(17) + 2 = 10

Oct 14, 2025 12:28 am
Ferocity

Rolls

Ferocity - (1d3)

(2) = 2

Oct 14, 2025 1:03 am
Shrike will parry the hit from a dead on strike to a glancing blow, a shimmer of psionic energy enhancing his movement as he activates Inertial Shield.
OOC:
Inertial shield halved the damage, Whichever attack is higher I will half.
Last edited October 15, 2025 5:02 am
Oct 14, 2025 8:06 am
OOC:
PhoenixScientist says:
Inertial shield halved the damage, Whichever attack is higher I will half.
Sorry, you don't have Inertial Shield (nor any triggered actions) yet. This is also part of the tutorial. We will have those in the next combat / thread and learn about standing orders.

In the meantime, please lose that Stamina. Don't worry, enemies are also weaker, balanced for these "incremental unlocks" of the tutorial.
Oct 14, 2025 2:05 pm
Marbin jumps forward and suddenly he disappears, leaving behind a puff of black ash. Mere moments later he steps out of the shadow of the closest tree.

He tosses the knife at the lone goblin across the other side of the tree (W3.b).
OOC:
Using Black Ash Teleport to get to J23, and as I am behind a tree I believe I can hide to gain a surge?

As I am hidden I can attack with Edge and therby negating the Bane from them having cover?

If the target has no allies adjacent to them, you gain 1 surge before the power roll. Could I then use 2 surges to increase the damage by 2? If so 8 damage, if not 6 damage.
Last edited October 14, 2025 2:06 pm

Rolls

Insight - (1d3)

(3) = 3

I Work Better Alone - (2d10+2)

(16) + 2 = 9

Oct 14, 2025 9:46 pm
OOC:
Furmyr says:
Using Black Ash Teleport to get to J23, and as I am behind a tree I believe I can hide to gain a surge?

As I am hidden I can attack with Edge and therby negating the Bane from them having cover?

If the target has no allies adjacent to them, you gain 1 surge before the power roll. Could I then use 2 surges to increase the damage by 2? If so 8 damage, if not 6 damage.
Yes to all questions. =) 10 damage it is.
[ +- ] Surges

Vordokov, what do you do?

After that, all creatures on both sides of the battle will have acted, the combat round ends, and a new combat round begins. So you can act twice, if you want =)
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W3.b: 10
W4.a: 6
W4.b: 6

Ashleigh

htech

Oct 14, 2025 9:50 pm
Ashleigh
Ashleigh moves and tries to stay quiet, forgotten and inconspicuous behind a tree

https://i.imgur.com/9CQB9c4.jpeg
Oct 14, 2025 9:58 pm
Shrike, seeing the threat of being flanked, slides around the goblin creeping up on his left, and hits it with a couple quick blows, and then drives it towards its ally, to keep them from flanking.
OOC:
He will shift first to F14 using Inertial Step (9 damage), against W2.a and then another Knockback against W2.a sliding it towards W2.b.
Last edited October 14, 2025 11:00 pm

Rolls

Inertial Step - (2D10+2)

(29) + 2 = 13

Knockback - (2d10+2)

(23) + 2 = 7

Oct 14, 2025 11:15 pm
Malfina grins at the two goblins recently on fire and says, "I serve the Flame, and it says that you to,.. should... BURN!" And she laughs as she releases another two gouts of flame at the goblins! Then, if they still stand, she forms a fist and sneers at one of them, adding an extra flare of flame upon it. Then, remembered what they say about discretion, she moves back away from the goblins and takes some cover.
OOC:
Gains 2 Essence at the beginning of turn. Uses Bifurcated Incineration again (dealing six fire damage each vs W4.a and W4.b) as her Main, then Practical Magic as her Maneuver to deal an extra 2 fire to W4.b if it is still up. then she moves five squares (mostly diagonals!)to O25.
Last edited October 15, 2025 3:38 am

Rolls

Bifurcated Incineration - (2d10+2)

(66) + 2 = 14

Oct 15, 2025 3:26 am
Satisfied that Ashleigh is out of harms way for the time being, Vordokov moves toward Naercalad to assist, reciting a short prayer along the way.

"Grole, guide me in smiting my foes and strenghtening my allies."

Focusing on the goblin straight ahead, it's suddenly enveloped in a bright, white light, some of which envelopes Naer.
OOC:
Moving to H27. Targeting W3.a with Blessed Light, dealing 5 damage, with 1 surge going to Naer.
OOC:
Piety: 5/5 (3 + 2 from dealing holy damage first turn)
Last edited October 15, 2025 3:39 am

Rolls

Piety - (1d3)

(3) = 3

Blessed Light - (2d10+2)

(42) + 2 = 8

Oct 15, 2025 9:09 am
Turn 2
Shrike’s strikes crash into the goblin on his flank, driving it backward into its ally. Malfina’s flames roar out once more, washing over the pair she had already scorched while smoke curls from their leathers. Vordokov’s prayer leaves holy light searing into another goblin.

All around, the goblins are battered, burned, and bloodied— most are wounded, some are winded. The burned pair look especially worse for wear, their breath ragged and movements faltering.
https://i.imgur.com/Mg7gZVI.jpeg
Tutorial notes
I removed (for now) the difficult terrain overlay just to keep the map clean. Those roots and branches are still there. ;)
[ +- ] Winded
[ +- ] All Stamina Lost
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.a: 11 (Winded)
W2.b: 2
W3.b: 8 (Winded)
W4.a: 12 (Winded)
W4.b: 14 (Winded)
OOC:
Continues in my next post, for the goblins
Oct 15, 2025 9:25 am
The clearing fills with the cries of the wounded. The goblins, burned and bloodied, lift their voices in a chorus of shrieks — a call for reinforcements.

Moments later, shadows stir at the entrance to the moss-covered tomb. Four more goblins spill out of the darkness. Two are armed like the others, clutching crude spears and snarling with feral rage. But the other two move differently—low, silent, with a predatory grace. Their leathers are darker, their swords slender and wickedly curved.

These aren’t common warriors. These are goblin assassins (K1.a and K1.b)

https://i.imgur.com/NENjPpX.jpeg
OOC:
Continues in my next post
Oct 15, 2025 9:33 am
The newly arrived goblin warriors darts around Obsidian’s flank. Spear leveled low, it moves to box him in alongside the goblin already fighting him, teeth bared in a wicked grin. With two attackers now closing from opposite sides, the dwarf feels the pressure tightening around him — this isn’t a reckless charge anymore. It’s a tactical surround.
OOC:
Obsidian, take 13 (!!) damage
https://i.imgur.com/LKDPjfH.jpeg
OOC:
Continues in my next post
Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Edges and Banes
[ +- ] Critical hit

Rolls

W5.a Spear vs Obsidian - (2d10+2)

(1010) + 2 = 22

W5.b Spear vs Obsidian (Flanking) - (2d10+4)

(83) + 4 = 15

W5.a Spear vs Obsidian (extra, critical hit bonus) - (2d10+2)

(55) + 2 = 12

Oct 15, 2025 9:45 am
Meanwhile, several of the goblins begin to advance toward Malfina and Shrike. Though they haven’t closed in to flank yet, their creeping approach tightens the space, ratcheting up the pressure with every step. Their guttural hisses and tapping spears on the ground make it clear—they’re hunting as a pack now.
OOC:
Shrike, take 9 damage
OOC:
Malfina, take 7 damage
OOC:
Next PC! What do you do?
https://i.imgur.com/AkUCQpi.jpeg
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.a: 11 (Winded)
W2.b: 2
W3.b: 8 (Winded)
W4.a: 12 (Winded)
W4.b: 14 (Winded)

Rolls

W2.a Spear vs Shrike - (2d10+2)

(95) + 2 = 16

W2.b Spear vs Shrike - (2d10+2)

(610) + 2 = 18

W4.a Spear vs Malfina - (2d10+2)

(35) + 2 = 10

W4.b Spear vs Malfina - (2d10+2)

(39) + 2 = 14

Oct 15, 2025 11:58 am
OOC:
Panning the map a bit to the left so you can see it better, but other than that, no changes in this post
https://i.imgur.com/8bQLeHn.jpeg
Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Tactical Coordination
Oct 15, 2025 1:12 pm
Marbin rushes out of hiding and moves up to the goblin in front of him. A new dagger appear in his hand and he stabs forward before quickly jumping out of range.
OOC:
Move to K19, will use Fade and then shift to somewhere will decide after I see how well I roll.
Edit: Will step back to L20 (and 5 damage)
Last edited October 15, 2025 1:15 pm

Rolls

Fade - (2d10+2)

(13) + 2 = 6

Insight - (1d3)

(3) = 3

Oct 15, 2025 2:00 pm
Looking past the one he just wounded, Vordokov sees a pack of new goblins appear and start to close in on his other companions. He's about to take off that way when he sees the pack Malfina was fighting catch up to her and lash out. He retaliates with another burst of divine energy.

Right after that he focuses on the polder and attempts to heal her.
OOC:
Main - Blessed Light at W4.b
OOC:
7 holy damage, 2 surges to Malfina
OOC:
Maneuver - using Healing Grace on Malfina to allow her to spend a Recovery.
Last edited October 15, 2025 2:07 pm

Rolls

Blessed Light - (2d10+2)

(38) + 2 = 13

Oct 15, 2025 4:15 pm
Skrike wants to finish these two off and help Obsidian, he will use some quick strikes against the two goblins, and then a big kick into the side of the one that looks better, knocking it into the other
OOC:
Main action: Faster than the eye, 5 damage to W2a & W2b, 2 extra damage to W2b
Maneuver: Knockback: 3 spaces
I think that will take out W2a but not W2b, and I dont think spending a surge would finish off W2b
OOC:
I believe I have no active ise for Discipline right now?
Last edited October 15, 2025 4:24 pm

Rolls

Faster than The Eye - (2D10+2)

(102) + 2 = 14

Knockback - (2d10+6)

(93) + 6 = 18

Oct 15, 2025 4:41 pm
OOC:
@PhoenixScientist I'll save your post and dice results for next turn, no problems, but we still need to finish the current round before I can address this, okay?

I think I'll include a "Current round" footer in my posts, to make it easier to see who already acted and who's next.
OOC:
Continues in my next post
Oct 15, 2025 4:47 pm
Marvin's blade drives into the goblin’s side, and before the creature can even snarl, the rogue slips back out of reach, a smear of dark blood left glistening on his weapon.

Across the clearing, Vordokov thrusts out his hand, a pulse of radiant light erupting from his palm and slamming into one of the goblins. The creature lets out a shriek as the blessed light sears through it, and then it collapses into the dirt, smoking.
https://i.imgur.com/zB1DbYN.jpeg
OOC:
Continues in my next post, for the goblins
Oct 15, 2025 4:49 pm
Malfina curses quietly as the goblins lash out at her. When scorching light bathes one of the goblins in holy fire. She feels an infusion of life as well and shouts over her shoulder, "Thanks, Vordokov! I'll be good here; go help Obsidian!"

She takes a deep breath, turns to look at (I assume) the one remaining goblin, and smiles. She makes a flicking motion with her finger, sending magical energies rippling away and pushing the goblin back 2 squares, after which she conjures a spinning ball of flaming plasma, which we subsequently tosses at the pushed back goblin!

Assuming both goblins are now dead, she moves to higher ground, so she can help the others.
OOC:
Gains three essence (2 per round, 1 because someone took damage). Use that Recovery (I assume the Healing Grace ability means I don't spend a Maneuver to Catch My Breath and just get the Recovery, which heals me fully). Use my Main Action to Hurl Element at the remaining (pushed back) goblin, dealing 7 fire (4 from ability, 2 from Reason, 1 from Acolyte of Fire). Use my Move to go to S21 up on the hill. The plan being to move further north on the hill and then firebomb the goblins from afar/above.
Last edited October 15, 2025 4:51 pm

Rolls

Power Roll - (2d10+2)

(65) + 2 = 13

Oct 15, 2025 5:14 pm
In the blink of an eye, they close the distance to Obsidian, circling wide until the dwarf is hemmed in on all sides. One crouches low, dagger poised like a serpent ready to strike, while the other slides behind him, blades glinting in the dim forest light. It’s a trap, and Obsidian now stands at the center of it.

https://i.imgur.com/5YP93EP.png
Elsewhere, the fight rages on. A goblin rushes Naercalad and thrusts its spear into his side, the tip biting through cloth and scraping against his ribs. Another jabs at Marbin, the crude point carving a shallow cut across his arm as he twists away. Both blows sting, but neither carries the weight or danger of what now looms over the surrounded dwarf.
OOC:
Obsidian, take another 9 damage (for a total of 22 damage this round!)
OOC:
Naercalad, take 3 damage
OOC:
Marbin, take 4 damage
https://i.imgur.com/IeE0xu0.jpeg
PCs to act this turn:
Naercalad
Obsidian

Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.a: 11 (Winded)
W2.b: 2
W3.b: 13 (Winded)
W4.a: 12 (Winded)
Obsidian: 25 of 33 (8 left, Winded)

PCs that already posted for the next turn:
Shrike, Malfina
OOC:
I will resolve their actions when appropriate, don't worry =)

Rolls

W1.a Spear Charge vs Obsidian - (2d10+2)

(26) + 2 = 10

W3.a Spear Charge vs Naercalad - (2d10+2)

(23) + 2 = 7

W3.b Spear Charge vs Marbin - (2d10+2)

(86) + 2 = 16

K1.a Sword Stab vs Obsidian (Flanking) - (2d10+2+2)

(51) + 4 = 10

Oct 15, 2025 5:37 pm
OOC:
Drgwen says:
I assume the Healing Grace ability means I don't spend a Maneuver to Catch My Breath and just get the Recovery, which heals me fully
Yup. That's correct =)
Oct 15, 2025 9:48 pm
Obsidian will use Brutal strike on W1.a and with the room that creates he will move through that gap to get around the goblins to J10 he will then use catch breath for some healing.
OOC:
5 damage 1 push but I have +2 for ferocity to make it three. Exactly how does healing work? I think I might have been skipped last turn.
Last edited October 15, 2025 9:52 pm

Rolls

Brutal Strike - (2d10+2)

(81) + 2 = 11

Oct 15, 2025 10:10 pm
OOC:
Healing works by using a Maneuver to use the Catch Breath and spend a Recovery. This gives you back an amount of stamina that should be noted on your character sheet.
OOC:
I think we are all on round 2, i accidentally took an extra.
Oct 15, 2025 10:19 pm
Naerclad marks the goblin in front of him, (w3.a) and launches Protective Strike against it. Should it kill the creature, he will use free ability to choose a new marked creature to Mark K1.b.
OOC:
Additionally, whenever you or any ally uses an ability to deal rolled damage to a creature marked by you, you can spend 1 focus to gain one of the following benefits as a free triggered action:
- The ability deals an additional 4 damage.
- The creature dealing the damage can spend a Recovery.
- The creature dealing the damage can shift up to 2 squares.
- If you damaged the creature with a melee ability, the creature is taunted by you (EoT).

Rolls

Protective Attack - (2d10+2)

(71) + 2 = 10

Oct 15, 2025 11:26 pm
OOC:
mathias0077 says:
I think I might have been skipped last turn.
Thanks! I fixed the pending PCs action list, I will consider your action above as part of turn 2 (that didn't end yet.)
mathias0077 says:
Exactly how does healing work?
Healing in this system works a bit differently than in D&D. Instead of relying mainly on healing spells or potions, most healing comes from Recoveries, a resource that heroes can spend to restore Stamina. Think of Recoveries like healing surges—players choose when to spend them, usually through the Catch Breath maneuver or certain abilities. Magical healing just let you spend them, sometimes even more than once, during the healers round.
Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Recovery
[ +- ] Maneuver – Catch Breath
[ +- ] Dying
[ +- ] Respite
Oct 15, 2025 11:40 pm
OOC:
htech says:
Drgwen says:
I assume the Healing Grace ability means I don't spend a Maneuver to Catch My Breath and just get the Recovery, which heals me fully
Yup. That's correct =)
Please note that you do spend the Recovery, if you want to heal, even if Vordokov let you do it in his round, without using your maneuver.

You now have 7 Recoveries, instead of you maximum value of 8, ok? Or you can just ignore his healing and not spend if, for example, it would exceed your maximum. It's a choice.
Oct 16, 2025 12:00 am
mathias0077 says:
Obsidian will use Brutal strike on W1.a and with the room that creates he will move through that gap to get around the goblins to J10 he will then use catch breath for some healing.
Unfortunately, we may need to reconsider this move. There are some tutorial notes I need to provide so you can make an informed decision. Sorry I didn't explain this sooner; I forgot that not all RPGs have Attacks of Opportunity. And I hadn't had a chance to talk about it yet as we're still in the second round and I already wrote a ton of notes 😬

Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Opportunity Attack
[ +- ] Advance
[ +- ] Disengage

OOC:
You will take 8 damage if you move to J10
OOC:
Obsidian, what do you do? Would you like to do those actions regardless or would you like to do something different in your turn? Feel free to change whatever you want as part of this learning exercise.
Oct 16, 2025 12:13 am
OOC:
I will keep it. That dam adds to my ferocity correct because it is a new round? I used catch breath so got some back.
Oct 16, 2025 12:19 am
Esidrix says:
Naerclad marks the goblin in front of him, (w3.a) and launches Protective Strike against it. Should it kill the creature, he will use free ability to choose a new marked creature to Mark K1.b.
OOC:
Additionally, whenever you or any ally uses an ability to deal rolled damage to a creature marked by you, you can spend 1 focus to gain one of the following benefits as a free triggered action:
- The ability deals an additional 4 damage.
- The creature dealing the damage can spend a Recovery.
- The creature dealing the damage can shift up to 2 squares.
- If you damaged the creature with a melee ability, the creature is taunted by you (EoT).
Naerclad killed the goblin.

EDIT: My mistake. His Protected Attack rolled 7 damage (Tier 1 ❌) but this goblin wasn't already hurt.
OOC:
Would you like to spend 1 focus to gain one of those abilities? You can choose only 1 of them. I am a little confused by that "additionally" note with everything in it. What do you do?
Oct 16, 2025 12:21 am
OOC:
mathias0077 says:
I will keep it. That dam adds to my ferocity correct because it is a new round? I used catch breath so got some back.
Okay! That's correct. Obsidian should be really angry by now =D
Oct 16, 2025 12:36 am
End of turn 2
Here is the map.

https://i.imgur.com/cVUbxJz.jpegStamina lost:
W1.a: 10 (Winded)
W2.a: 11 (Winded)
W2.b: 2
W3.a: 7
W3.b: 13 (Winded)
W4.a: 12 (Winded)

Next PCs:
Vordokov
Malfina Bramblebush (pending GM/monsters reaction and map+stamina updates)
Naercalad
Obsidian Rockcrusher
Marbin
Shrike (pending GM/monsters reaction and map+stamina updates)
OOC:
I will resolve Malfina’s and Shrike’s rounds tomorrow
Oct 16, 2025 12:48 am
OOC:
mathias0077 says:
5 damage 1 push but I have +2 for ferocity to make it three.
Actually, I think Ferocity 2 just increases your Knockback maneuver, not all abilities. So I believe it's just 1 square.
Oct 16, 2025 8:57 am
Turn 3
Shrike, the first goblin never even gets the chance to react —one solid punch to the jaw, then an elbow that snaps its head back. The creature crumples to the ground like a sack of grain, lifeless before it hits the dirt.
OOC:
PhoenixScientist says:
I believe I have no active ise for Discipline right now?
Once you have 6 Discipline for the combat, yeah, you can stop tracking. Those things under "alternate uses" in your shèet are not costs and you start the game with it. You need to have them accumulated, so you receive those benefits (without spending). Its like a "battery charge" =)
Then you drive your heel into the second goblin's ribs with a thunderous kick. A wave of force ripples out, and the goblin is launched backward.
OOC:
Please choose were the goblin will be pushed to. It needs to go away from you and you can't slide it towards the dead one. Somewhere in the blue overlay, I guess.

Also, I missed why you rolled 2d10+6 for the Knockback. Shouldn't it be 2d10+2(+2 for the Discipline 6 bonus)?

If so, you got a Tier 2 result and can push 2(+2 for the Discipline 2 bonus)
https://i.imgur.com/YkSiRwg.jpeg
Oct 16, 2025 12:19 pm
"Time for you to meet your maker," Marbins sighs as he once again stabs the goblin now in front of him.
OOC:
If it is still standing I'll knock it back before I move to M18.

Edit: That's 9 damage + 1 from the surge from him standing alone. If he's still alive that's a move of 2, so I'll push him to I17
Last edited October 16, 2025 12:22 pm

Rolls

I Work Better Alone - (2d10+2)

(38) + 2 = 13

Insight - (1d3)

(2) = 2

Knockback - (2d10+-1)

(104) - 1 = 13

Oct 16, 2025 1:38 pm
Confident Malfina has the remaining goblin in hand, Vordokov makes his way to the higher vantage point northwest. He stops along the way to help bolster Naer, blasting the goblin with holy light and transferring it's energy to his companion.
OOC:
Moving to E22
OOC:
7 holy damage, 2 surges to Naer
Last edited October 16, 2025 1:39 pm

Rolls

Blessed Light - (2d10+2)

(49) + 2 = 15

Oct 16, 2025 4:12 pm
OOC:
Lets have W2.b hit K1b.
Yeah you are right, should only be +4
Oct 16, 2025 4:43 pm
Malfina, you turn to face the last goblin standing before you. A heartbeat later, heat gathers in your palm as a swirling sphere of blazing plasma blossoms into existence. You hurl it and it strikes the goblin square in the chest. The explosion of fire is brief but brutal, sending the creature flying and leaving it lifeless on the ground.

With the threat at your back dealt with, you stride up a nearby rise, planting your boots on higher ground. From this vantage point, you can see the battle clearly—your allies locked in combat, the tide of goblins pressing in. You ready yourself, flames still dancing at your fingertips, prepared to bring your fire to bear where it’s needed most.

https://i.imgur.com/OeeKj7s.jpeg

Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.b: 10 (Winded)
W3.a: 7
W3.b: 13 (Winded)
K1.b: 1
Next PCs:
Vordokov (results soon)
Naercalad
Obsidian Rockcrusher
Marbin (results soon)

Next Monsters:
1 group is dead
4 groups should act ASAP
1 group will wait for PCs
OOC:
Continues in my next post
Oct 16, 2025 4:53 pm
Marbin, your blade slides cleanly between the goblin’s ribs. The creature jerks in surprise, a wet gasp escaping its throat before it crumples to the ground, lifeless.

Behind you, Vordokov climbs to the higher ground to the northwest, positioning himself for a clearer view of the battlefield and readying his divine light to support the others.
Two goblins (W1, W2) give up on Obsidian and advance on Shrike, snarling as they close the gap. One lunges low with its crude spear, the point biting into his side, while the other thrusts wide, the strike glancing harmlessly off the dirt.
OOC:
Take 7 damage, Shrike
Across the battlefield, two more goblins (W5 - a & b) rush Marbin with surprising coordination. Their spears dart forward in quick succession, both finding their mark and forcing the rogue back a half-step.
OOC:
Take 9 damage, Marbin
Meanwhile, the goblin locked in combat with Naercalad...

presses its attack, slipping past his guard and driving its spear into him with a vicious jab.
OOC:
Take 5 damage, Naercalad


Edit: was dead!

https://i.imgur.com/whRpbYf.jpeg
OOC:
Next PC! What do you do?
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.b: 10 (Winded)
W3.a: 14 (Winded)
K1.b: 1

Next PCs:
Naercalad
Obsidian Rockcrusher

Next monsters (waiting for PCs):
K1 group

Rolls

W1.a, W2.b - Spear Charge vs Shrike - (2d10+2, 2d10+2)

2d10+2 : (66) + 2 = 14

2d10+2 : (23) + 2 = 7

W5 - Spear Charge vs Marbin - (2d10+2, 2d10+2)

2d10+2 : (510) + 2 = 17

2d10+2 : (48) + 2 = 14

W3.a - Spear Charge vs Naercalad - (2d10+2)

(69) + 2 = 17

Oct 16, 2025 6:58 pm
OOC:
@htech, Marking by itself gives an Edge on attacks, which I missed, so +2. In addition, it gives other characters choices. If they choose to attack the marked target and hit, they can choose to spend and pick one of the four affects. I will spend for the 4 extra damage. Maybe with that and the Edge I'll do something.
Last edited October 16, 2025 7:00 pm
Oct 16, 2025 10:00 pm
Obsidian will move to K10 then charge K1.a and use melee free strike with a swing of his maul then spin and use the handle to the gut for a knockback.
OOC:
that is 20 dam and I will knock him back into K1.b
Last edited October 16, 2025 10:02 pm

Rolls

Free strike - (2d10+2)

(99) + 2 = 20

Knock back - (2d10+2)

(38) + 2 = 13

Oct 16, 2025 11:43 pm
OOC:
Esidrix says:
htech, Marking by itself gives an Edge on attacks, which I missed, so +2.
Indeed. Thanks. So you got a Tier 2 roll ✅ (10 damage)
Esidrix says:
In addition, it gives other characters choices. If they choose to attack the marked target and hit, they can choose to spend and pick one of the four effects. I will spend for the 4 extra damage. Maybe with that and the Edge I'll do something.
Rules as written: You're the only one who chooses whether to spend Focus (you're the only one with this Resource) and which of the options to grant it (even if the bonus goes to another character). In the next combat, you'll have more uses for Focus, so it's something you'd like to control.

BUT... We could create a house rule where you "donate" 1 Focus, after the fact, to a character if they hit and choose one of the bonuses. Would you like to do that? It allows more freedom to your allies and less back-and-forth in our PbP format.
Tutorial Notes
[ +- ] Heroic Resources

OOC:
Anyway, of course, you can choose to increase your own damage by 4 by spending your Focus. I was just confused because you listed everything =)

W3.a is dead. You did not take 5 damage, please retcon this if you changed anything in your character sheet.
Your turn, Naercalad. What do you do? =)
Oct 16, 2025 11:45 pm
OOC:
mathias0077 says:
that is 20 dam
Sorry, I didn't understand. Shouldn't it be 13 plus you get another main action because of the critical?
Oct 16, 2025 11:51 pm
OOC:
Sorry, yes that is 13
Oct 16, 2025 11:56 pm
Obsidian after the heavy blow will the use devastating rush to go at K1.b and strike as the other goblin is being knocked back into it.

5 dam +2 for squares charged for 7
Last edited October 16, 2025 11:57 pm

Rolls

Devastating Rush - (2d10+2)

(17) + 2 = 10

Oct 17, 2025 12:11 am
Obsidian, you severely hurt both goblins but didn't kill them.

https://i.imgur.com/giorkJN.jpeg

Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.b: 10 (Winded)
W5.a: 0
W5.b: 0
K1.a: 14 (Winded)
K1.b: 9 (Winded)

Next PCs:
Naercalad

Next Monster Groups:
Waiting for PCs - K1
Oct 18, 2025 8:10 am
OOC:
Pinging @Esidrix
Oct 19, 2025 8:22 am
OOC:
GM Note: As explained in the recruitment thread, ideally, players should post daily, but 5 posts per week are mandatory to keep the game flowing for the group.

Since it's been 3 days since Esidrix's last post, at least in my timezone, I'll be playing his character until he returns. Real life happens, so no problem. Let's continue.
Naercalad fires two arrows in quick succession.
OOC:
Main: Two shot vs K1.a & K1.b. Using the 2 surges given by Vordokov vs goblin b.

Won't move nor use maneuvers this time

Rolls

Two shot - (2d10+2)

(310) + 2 = 15

Oct 19, 2025 8:23 am
Both goblins die.

https://i.imgur.com/vXBB3hs.jpeg
Stamina lost:
W1.a: 5
W2.b: 10 (Winded)
W5.a: 0
W5.b: 0

End of turn 3
OOC:
It’s a new turn. All PCs may act. What do you do?
Oct 20, 2025 1:14 am
Shrike, seeing that the goblins next to hom are close will try to finish them off. Hoping to get some breathing room from his allies that finished off their opponents. He hits the two next to him with a flurry. One of the Goblins fall.
He slides around the remaining one and whilrnit is shifting feet to follow him Shrike kicks its legs and then punches it in the sternum to knock it back, tying to get some breathing room.
OOC:
Faster than the Eye. Using surge for +2 dmg.
Move to
Knockback vs W1b
Last edited October 20, 2025 1:22 am

Rolls

Faster than The Eye - (2D10+2)

(34) + 2 = 9

Knockback - (2D10+4)

(76) + 4 = 17

Oct 20, 2025 2:49 am
Vordokov scales up the hill, just past the brush on the right. He sees Shrike battling two goblins, felling one and pushing back the other. He focuses and blasts it with divine light.
OOC:
Moving to D18. Blessed Light against W2.b; 2 surges for Shrike
Last edited October 20, 2025 2:51 am

Rolls

Blessed Light - (2d10+2)

(83) + 2 = 13

Oct 20, 2025 3:38 am
OOC:
Brought me back from 3 stamina! Thanks!
Oct 20, 2025 3:47 am
Malfina trots along the high ground and wheels around to see two goblins harassing Marbin. She speaks to the Flame, saying, "Oh all consuming flame, I call on thee! Take these two and make them yours!"

She points at the two goblins below her and twin jets of sizzling flame shoot across the battlefield, searing the goblins!
OOC:
Malfina gains 3 Essence and moves to R17. For her Main Action she uses Bifurcated Incineration again! A 10. Ah well. She uses the Practical Magic maneuver to add 2 damage to one of the goblins. W5.a takes 4, W5.b takes 6.
Last edited October 20, 2025 3:52 am

Rolls

Power roll - (2d10+2)

(62) + 2 = 10

Oct 20, 2025 8:27 am
Turn 4
Shrike's blows are enough to kill one of the goblins and injure the other, knocking it a great distance away (6 squares now).
htech sent a note to PhoenixScientist
Vordokov's prayer (Blessed Light) further damages the pushed goblin and leaves Shrike's fists glowing.
OOC:
Surges let you do more damage next round. To heal, unless Vordokov uses Healing Grace, you must use a maneuver: Catch Breath. Unlike D&D, you can self-heal as well, with the same effects. =).
Meanwhile, Malfina’s flames, slightly weaker than her full potential, deal damage to the goblins.
OOC:
Continues in my next post
Oct 20, 2025 8:28 am
The goblins glance around the battlefield, realizing the tide has turned. Once a large group, they are now outnumbered two to one by a party of hardened adventurers. Fear flashes in their beady eyes. One lets out a sharp, guttural cry. In an instant, they turn around and flee, retreating into the shadowed depths of the forest. Their spears clatter against their sides as they vanish into the undergrowth, leaving only the groans of the dying behind.

End of combat
Tutorial notes
[ +- ] Pursuing the Goblins
[ +- ] Victory
[ +- ] Recoveries

Ashleigh

htech

Oct 20, 2025 8:36 am
Ashleigh watches wide-eyed as the last of the goblins break and run, the adrenaline still thrumming in her chest. She lets out a shaky breath, clearly impressed by the brutal efficiency with which the group dismantled the ambush.

"Gods… you made that look easy," she mutters, half in awe, half still trying to process the chaos that just ended. Her gaze shifts toward the looming entrance of the Tomb, its dark mouth seeming even more menacing now.

"I suppose this means you’ll be going in after Violet, then?" she asks softly. There’s a flicker of worry and another of hope in her eyes.

"I… I want to help, I really do. But I’d only get in your way down there. I’m not a fighter." She swallows and straightens a little. "I can stay here, though, make sure no one sneaks up behind you. Just… bring her back."
OOC:
What do you do?
Ashleigh
Oct 20, 2025 9:51 am
Still in the fury of battle will chase off after the two goblins with his great maul and end them. Can't have them running into any friends and bringing them back behind us.
OOC:
Do you need any rolls?
Oct 20, 2025 10:35 am
OOC:
Nope. Combat ended, so it is now a pure roleplaying decision. It does affect the fiction, though =)
Obsidian, you barrel forward, unopposed. The two fleeing goblins glance back just in time to see your shadow loom over them. With a brutal upward arc, your first strike caves in the back of one’s skull, sending it sprawling into the dirt. The second barely has time to scream before your follow-through crushes its ribs with a sickening crack. Both fall limp.
Oct 20, 2025 10:42 am
Vordokov sees Obsidian bound off, confident the dwarf will stop the remaining goblins. He looks at the others and the destruction dealt around them, Grole would be pleased.

"I would go in and rescue your daughter, though doing so alone would be foolhardy. As for you Ashleigh, your best course of action now would be to head back to the safety of town, tell others what has happened here, and give them hope. We'll come back with your daughter, safe and sound." The orc wasn't quite sure he believed that last part, but best not to worry the woman more than needbe.
Last edited October 20, 2025 10:46 am
Oct 20, 2025 12:48 pm
"I agree, if we're going down there, we should go together. Ashleigh, it wouldn't be safe for you with us and I fear, you may not be safe loitering around this spot. If you stay, one of us would feel compelled to remain with, thus weakening our effort to retrieve your daughter."

Naercalad surveys the fallen goblins, "We should check the bodies for keys or other trinkets that may help us enter their hideout."
Oct 20, 2025 3:29 pm
"Naercalad, you make a good point, but we must keep moving. We made a lot of noise here and a girl's life coulld end at any moment for any reason."
Shrike will help check pockets and obvious spots, quick pat downs, for anything that may help us, but will say something again if we take more than a few minutes.
Oct 20, 2025 6:13 pm
Shrike and Naercalad, you kneel to check pockets and belts, turning over bodies when necessary. A few crude bone trinkets, some dull copper coins, and poorly made spears are all you find—nothing that would aid you deeper within. No keys, no maps.

Beyond the scattered corpses, the heavy stone slab concealing the tomb has already been dragged aside. A dark staircase yawns before you, leading down into the darkness below.
Oct 20, 2025 11:07 pm
Shrike is already moving to the tomb as soon as nothing interesting is found. He will go to light a torch and then ask "Malfina, can you circumvent our need for a held torch?"
Oct 20, 2025 11:15 pm
Obsidian returns from finishing off the runners"Are ready to go underground?"
OOC:
So since the fight is over I go back to 0 ferocity, correct?
Oct 21, 2025 7:38 am
Malfina laughs as the goblins flee and snickers once again when she sees Obsidian rush off after them. She picks her way down to join the others and seconds those who suggest Ashleigh return to town, if possible.
OOC:
@htech Is there a way Malfina can produce fire and just hold it as a torch?
Oct 21, 2025 9:53 am
Marbin has been standing off to the side, nursing his wounds as the goblins ran off. "They ruined my favorite shirt," he complains.

But once Obsidian is back he just nods in response, ready to proceed.
OOC:
Is exactly 2 recoveries shy of full health so will spend them.
Last edited October 21, 2025 10:00 am
Oct 21, 2025 10:00 am
OOC:
Drgwen says:
@htech Is there a way Malfina can produce fire and just hold it as a torch?
You now have a "Permanent 1" ability, so yeah, you would be able to keep the air burning, by receiving 1 less Essence every combat round.
[ +- ] Spoiler
Oct 21, 2025 12:53 pm
OOC:
mathias0077 says:
So since the fight is over I go back to 0 ferocity, correct?
Correct. Everyone lost all their Heroic Resources.
Oct 21, 2025 1:00 pm
Malfina smirks at Shrike’s question, raising her right hand. With a flick of her wrist, a small sphere of flame ignites above her palm, hovering in the air like a captured star. The warm light spills outward, banishing the shadows that cling to the stairwell.

Ashleigh, clutching her cloak tightly, shakes her head as the group prepares to move. "I’ll stay here," she insists, voice resolute. "If Violet comes out… she’ll need someone waiting. I’ll keep hidden and out of sight. Don’t worry about me."

With a final nod, the adventurers enter the Delian Tomb.
OOC:
End of Act 1.1

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