[OOC: here will be challenges etc. to learn the O.R.E. and test character ideas.]

In a clearing in a densely wooded section of land, a local lord has erected a small obstacle course for the training and betterment of his Men-at-arms.  His knights, naturally, have their own training facilities on their own estates.

From the starting line, marked by notches in two thin saprolings, there is a short jog through the woods between trees (no roll required).

There is then a series of small trenches filled with mud and water (Body + Athletics or Running).  There is also a slippery log that spans the trenches to one side which you may choose instead to cross (Coordination + Acrobatics, failure means you fall in and get muddy).

Past that is a straight section of path with a wooden training dummy at the end of it.  When you climb out of the trenches, there is a spear you can pick up and throw at the dummy (Coordination + Throw, failure means you miss).

You then jog past the dummy where there is a wall made of logs that is about your height (Coordination + Climb, failure means you cannot climb the wall and must walk around).

Past that you cannot see.  When you get to the top you can look around (Sense + Sight or Hearing).

His Eminence has permitted you to run the obstacle course if you choose.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:29, Mon 24 Nov 2014.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

"An obstacle course? Really?"

Brennan sighs, then rubs his hands together.

"So be it. Let's see if we can complete this course at optimal efficiency."

He jogs into the trees from the starting line without much effort, but frowns when faced with the decision between the muddy trenches and the slippery logs. Reasoning that he's less likely to harm himself if he stays on the ground, he heads for the trenches and begins to slog through them.

[Body + Running: 7,9,9,4,6]

Brennan plows through the trenches with calculated ease, though not particularly quickly, and makes his way to the training dummy on the other side of the path. He grips the nearby spear with an obvious lack of familiarity, checks the local wind patterns, and chucks the barbed shaft in the general direction of its target.

[Coordination + Throw: 7,10,2,4]

The tip buries itself unceremoniously into the ground, and Brennan shrugs nonchalantly.

"Some things are inevitable," he says to no one in particular, before hurrying over to the wall of logs. "And others are... harder than they look."


[Coordination + Climb: 9,6,7,4]

Brennan struggles for a moment with the wall, huffing and puffing and utterly failing to haul himself over it before letting his feet touch back down on the ground.

"Fortunately, there are many paths -- some better than the others. We must learn to envision more than what we are told to see."

He then simply walks around the wall and, shielding his eyes from the sun, peers into the distance.

[Sense + Sight: 10,6]

"Looks like I'm done," he says, nodding to himself. "Though I believe I'll want to give it another go before our good patron revokes access to his facility."
This message was last edited by the player at 18:56, Mon 24 Nov 2014.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 2):

Between the sun in his eyes or lack of attention, Brennan fails to notice the sandbag swinging toward him, launched by a concealed assistant behind a tree.

The bag collides with Brennan and knocks him head over heels sideways (2 shock to torso and left arm).

Brennan dusts himself off and ignores the snickers of the assistant.

Before him is a long path which twists and turns and goes down a small hill and back up another (no roll required for run, but Body + Athletics to avoid fatigue).

At the end of that long trail is another assistant standing lazily at a fork in the path.  He will be lazily munching an apple when you arrive.

The fork is not labeled, so you aren't sure which way to go.  Perchance the assistant does?

In reply to GM (msg # 3):

OOC: Would I have been able to potentially Dodge that?

Brennan picks himself up with as much dignity as he can muster, and begins the tedious jog to the next section of the course.

[Body + Athletics: 5,2,5,9]

He stops with plenty of breath to spare, and pauses to look at the assistant at the fork.

"Which way's next, good sir?"
This message was last edited by the player at 19:13, Mon 24 Nov 2014.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 4):

(OOC: yes)

The man shrugs.  "I know the way, sir, but M'lord said nothin 'bout telling nobody.  Just said sit here."

In reply to GM (msg # 5):

Brennan sighs, taking a moment to consider the man before him.

Lower class. Likes apples. Obedient servant. Potentially lazy. Tell him what he wants to hear.

"Well, well, my stout yeoman, then today's your lucky day."

He takes advantage of the man's confused expression to continue.

"You see, I awakened today with a glimpse into the future -- hazy, of course, but the meaning was clear. I was to find a bruiser of a man with a solid core about him, and look at yourself. As sure as I'm standing here, that man is you."

Brennan points at the bruised ares of the apple where the skin has been removed, and nods at the core itself.

"What I wouldn't give to be you, sir, for you are destined to find a great fortune in return for kindly helping a stranger in need."

Brennan points to himself with one of his thumbs.

"And I am that stranger in need. Tell me, if you please, what lies in either direction, and then make haste back to your home, for I have it on good authority that your good lord has left you a gift befitting your diligent obedience."

[Empathy + Persuasion: 10,1,7,3,1]

Brennan smiles his most charming smile, and awaits the bewildered man's response.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:09, Mon 24 Nov 2014.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 6):

The man is clearly taken aback.  he looks dubiously at his apple for a piece then at Brennan.

"Sure 'n if that's true, sir, I'll be grateful for your counsel.  The path t'the right's the one for you.  T'other is a dead-end.

Following the suggested path leads to a small ring formed by sharpened stakes driven into the ground.

There is a gap in the ring, beside which stand a bow, a small shield, a halfhelm and a waster (wooden sword).  There are also several arrows tipped with leather balls.  (each does Shock +1 damage).

In the ring stand two opponents.  These are large men bare but for leather breeches and metal halfhelms.  Each holds a waster of his own.

"Arm yourself, sir, and enter the ring," one announces.

(OOC:  after you pick up one or more weapons you may enter the ring.  The combat round begins when you declare your action and roll.  The men stand together about one round's movement away).

In reply to GM (msg # 7):

Brennan arms himself with a helm, straps a waster to his side, grabs a quiver of blunted arrows, and takes the bow.

"As you wish."

He takes one step into the ring, nocks an arrow, and lets loose at the closer of the two men.

[Archery + Coordination: 2,10,7,2,6,5,8,7]

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 8):

Brennan's shot flies true and low, striking one man in the left thigh (hit location 2 as that was the first die rolled for 5 shock damage).

He stumbles slightly but keeps coming.

(OOC: if you have multiple sets, you can choose which to use.  If not I'll assume the one that looks better, here being the 7's which did more damage)

Round 2

The two big men aim to ring Brennan's bell by means of their wasters.

In reply to GM (msg # 9):

OOC: I don't understand why I hit the 2 instead of 7. I thought higher numbers were generally more critical targets? I don't mind either way, just want to understand. If I roll 2,2,10,10, do I get the 2 instead of the 10 because the 2's came up first?

Brennan drops his bow, unwilling to risk it in melee, and brings his waster up and at the ready.

[Melee + Body: 3,10,5,9,1,8,8]

OOC: Would it be better to hit him in the 8 slot, or to double up on the same slot I already hit (assuming I can aim for a lesser result than I actually hit at will).
This message was last edited by the player at 14:50, Tue 25 Nov 2014.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 10):

(OOC:  exactly.  In the 'base' ORE, the height of the match sets target while width sets damage, which is somewhat incongruous with the 'speed vs. aplomb' feel.  In the modified damage rules, height is damage, width is speed and hit location is a separate die.  For simplicity, we'll just go by the first die rolled whether it's part of a set or not.  That way you only need roll one set of dice.)

The melee is fast and furious.  Having given little to no thought to defense, all three land blows to opponents

(OOC:  in the future, please specify which opponent you are trying to hit in combat.  I'll assume here you wanted to hit the most injured dude.  If you had preferred to defend, you would have used Block or Dodge, but you'd have to specify WHICH enemy you are defending against.  When a shield is used, it applies to all attackers you are aware of.)

Brennan smacks the limping man in the R. Arm for 5 shock (hit location 3) while he is promptly smacked in his own arm (location 4) for 6 shock and by the man's companion for 4 more shock.

(OOC:  I have updated your sheet to show damage.  2 shock to body and left arm from sandbags, plus 10 shock from these attacks.  Since the arm can only hold 8 shock, the next 2 points turn 2 shock into Killing.  Brennan's right arm is now incapacitated.  One enemy's leg and arm are very sore.)

"Yield!"  The non-wounded man shouts.

In reply to GM (msg # 11):

"A fine idea," Brenna says, lowering his weapon and nursing his rapidly bruising arm for a moment before looking over at the man he'd struck several times in combat. "Are you injured?"

OOC: If I wanted to block or dodge, doesn't that cost me dice? Can I move further away and still attack, or attack and then move, without losing dice?
This message was last edited by the player at 15:04, Tue 25 Nov 2014.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 12):

The men smile and clap you good-naturedly (and carefully) on the shoulder.

"Nothing that won't wash out with some spit and dirt," he jokes.

End Combat

(OOC:  After combat, half of all shock damage goes away from each hit location.  It will continue to go away on its own over time by resting and taking it easy.  Killing damage... is much harder to deal with.)

(OOC:  Correct... it is difficult to both defend and attack at the same time.  Doing so is a multiple-action.  You choose the SMALLER of the two pools then drop 1d and roll it trying to get 2 matches.  If you get only one match, you choose which action is successful.

This is the true power of Martial Arts, the same skill is used for both attacking and defending which means your pool is normally larger, but it's still a multiple action.

You can indeed attack while moving a little, say swing and step back... the problem is that your enemy can do the same thing so it doesn't really accomplish much most of the time.

Again, shields make blocking MUCH more effective, and also each shield has hit locations that it covers even if you don't block.)

In reply to GM (msg # 13):

I wasn't sure if I knew how to use shields, is the thing, and I certainly couldn't and used one with the bow. Ah well.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 14):

Sure, you can use Block untrained, and again some shields provide base protection no matter what you do.

This is why we train!

Take a look at your character sheet to see how damage is tracked.

[ ] denotes an un-damaged box.
[/] is shock damage
[X] is killing damage

You can then clear it all.  You have completed this portion of the training.

Please proceed to the closest suicide booth for mission debrief...

In reply to GM (msg # 15):

In a clearing in a densely wooded section of land, a local lord has erected a small obstacle course for the training and betterment of his Men-at-arms.  His knights, naturally, have their own training facilities on their own estates.

From the starting line, marked by notches in two thin saplings, there is a short jog through the woods between trees (no roll required).

There is then a series of small trenches filled with mud and water (Body + Athletics or Running).  There is also a slippery log that spans the trenches to one side which you may choose instead to cross (Coordination + Acrobatics, failure means you fall in and get muddy).

Past that is a straight section of path with a wooden training dummy at the end of it.  When you climb out of the trenches, there is a spear you can pick up and throw at the dummy (Coordination + Throw, failure means you miss).

You then jog past the dummy where there is a wall made of logs that is about your height (Coordination + Climb, failure means you cannot climb the wall and must walk around).

Past that you cannot see.  When you get to the top you can look around (Sense + Sight or Hearing).

His Eminence has permitted you to run the obstacle course if you choose.

In reply to GM (msg # 16):

OK let's try this.

He jogs down the path until he reaches the small pits.  With a roll of his eyes he easily flits over the pits

Body+Athletics- pair of 7's [7,5,4,2,7]

He then picks up the spear and launches it to stick exactly where the dummy's head would be.

Coordination- pair of 7's [10,7,2,7]

Laughing out loud he continues along the path.  He begins to sing as he travels his rich voice carrying to the nearby trees.  He sings the song of the Juggernaut and of his destruction of the city Nicea.

As he arrives at the wall he looks up, deciding if he wants to try it.  He shrugs.  Taking a step back he runs up the wall and easily reaches the summit

Coordination- pair of 8's [2,1,8,8]

At the top of the wall he pauses momentarily to survey his surroundings

Sense+Sight- fail [1,7,2,4,6]

But the same sun blinds our intrepid hero.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:57, Tue 25 Nov 2014.

In reply to Player 2 (msg # 17):

(OOC:  Rolled amazingly!)

Player 2 does not see the swinging sandbag and takes it to his left side (2 shock to left arm and torso).

Before Player 2 is a long path which twists and turns and goes down a small hill and back up another (no roll required for run, but Body + Athletics to avoid fatigue).

At the end of that long trail is another assistant standing at a fork in the path.  He will be lazily munching an apple when you arrive.

The fork is not labeled, so you aren't sure which way to go.  Perchance the assistant does?
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:02, Tue 25 Nov 2014.

In reply to GM (msg # 18):

He takes the hill but with much of the starch taken out of him from the hit.  He is clutching his injured side and gets to the top of the hill breathless and sweating.

Athletics+Body fail [4,2,1,5,9]

The man lazily munches his apple at the fork in the road.  He looks at the man munching his apple and immediately assumes a haughty posture, chin slightly up, back straight and an heir of defensive embarrassment at his failure on the course.

You there!  Thanks be to the first that there is someone in this god-forsaken forest.  Lord Braken called me over to inspect and run his accursed course, I tried to talk him out of it, take one of the children they should enjoy it!

Does he do this of course not! 

He pauses hands on knees emphasizing his discomfort.

People always love to see nobility put out.

He straightens back up.

I mean really!  If he wants to diddle the dutchess Gavony that is fine, but he doesn't need to send me on a fools errand to do so!


Clearly Lord Braken has left you hear to escort me through the rest of this course as he has not left any roadmaps.

Acting+Leadership Triple 1's [1,5,9,4,1,8,2,3,1,7]

He puts on a completely vapid but somewhat charming smile as he claps the man on his back and begins to escort him down one of the paths.

So which way to the next obstacle and what grand adventure has the Lord Braken planned for us next?!

In reply to Player 2 (msg # 19):

"The path t'the right's the one for you.  T'other is a dead-end," the man explains, swept up in Player 2's task.

(OOC:  normally, 3x1 indicates fast success but barely scraping by.)

Following the suggested path leads to a small ring formed by sharpened stakes driven into the ground.

There is a gap in the ring, beside which stand a bow, a small shield, a halfhelm and a waster (wooden sword).  There are also several arrows tipped with leather balls.  (each does Shock +1 damage).

In the ring stand two opponents.  These are large men bare but for leather breeches and metal halfhelms.  Each holds a waster of his own.

"Arm yourself, sir, and enter the ring," one announces.

(OOC:  after you pick up one or more weapons you may enter the ring.  The combat round begins when you declare your action and roll.  The men stand together about one round of movement away).

In reply to GM (msg # 20):

Continuing his affected nobility he looks scornfully at the equipment.  Then he looks at the warriors completely slack jawed.  He laughs heartily and begins to applaud.

Well the Lord Braken has done his work admirably.  Aren't you two gentlemen just the Juggernaut reborn!

The men stand up a bit straighter at the compliment.

In all honesty the Lord Braken has sent me for a demonstration of this course.  It has been... quite impressive. I assume you two fine fellows are the last challenge?

He walks slowly around the ring indicating his (current) complete non rush to get into the ring.  He presumptively sets his foot on the lower rail of the fence leaning the rest of his body on the top part of the fence, clearly a specatator.

I was told that while both of you were fine physical specimens that there was a sandy-haired gentleman

He indicates the fighter closest to him.

Could make a sword sing like Min himself.

He looks over at the darker swarthier fighter

I told the Lord that he was crazy, I would have heard of any such swordsman.  I actually laid a wager sight unseen against this unnamed warrior *appraisingly looks the warrior up and down* I believe I have made the better wager.

He points at the darker gentleman

Your name good sir if you would be so kind.

Darren Milord

And yours?

He inquires politely

Wesley, lord.

Well Darren, Wesley he says straightening up from his post beginning to look very excited.  It would give me no end of pleasure to see our wager settled by you find gentlemen in a sparring match.  I will report back to lord Braken exactly what I see in great detail.

Darren if you were to win I would have you come to the castle tonight and collect the spoils of our wager.  The money is of little interest to me it is all in the thrill of wager.

Regardless of the victor, Your deeds will be sung of in his halls tonight!  He projects actually singing the last phrase in a chord of battles and glory.

ActingPerform+Command pair of 10's [9,6,10,10,6,3,2,7,7,8]

The best way to survive combat is to never fight it.
This message was last edited by the player at 16:48, Wed 26 Nov 2014.

In reply to Player 2 (msg # 21):

(OOC: Brilliantly done... but also wrong.  Although some skills can 'move' between different attributes, each die pool MUST be made up of an Attribute + Skill.  Perform is very fluid and could be Coordination, Command or Empathy or even Brains depending on what you're doing with it.  However it has to be with an attribute).

The men shrug.

"Makes no matter to us," Wesley says.  "We were about to play at blades anyhow."

(OOC:  good opportunity to test some things).

The two check the straps on their helmets and each seizes up a waster (shock +1) and small shield (counts as a heater) and square off.

Round 1

Wesley chooses pure attack (2x2 hit location 6) whereas Darren chooses to try to both attack and defend (2x2 and hit location 6, Darren chooses to attack).

As their shields automatically protect the left arm (5-6), both wasters bounce off harmlessly.

Round 2

They repeat their strategies.

Wesley 2x8 hit location 6.  Darren nothing.  Wesley is able to sacrifice some power for some accuracy, shifting his match to 2x6 to hit location 7, striking Darren for 4 shock to the torso.

Round 3

Again.

Wesley gets 2x6 to location 6 (dice roller REALLY likes the left arm today).  Darren gets 2x7 to hit location 1.

Wesley again chooses to reduce his match to 2x4 to hit location 7 for 3 shock.  Darren can either block it with his match or choose to sweep Wesley's leg for 5 shock, which is what he does.

Damage:  Darren 7 shock to torso.  Wesley 5 shock to R. Leg.


Round 4

Again.

Wesley gets 2x6 to location 6 (I swear to Buddah... what is going on?).  Darren gets 2x7 and 2x9 to location 7.

Wesley's waster cracks off of Darren's well-timed shield maneuver and he gets a hit across the chest for his troubles to the tune of 6 shock.

Damage:  Darren 7 shock to torso, Wesley 6 shock to torso, 5 shock to R. Leg.


Round 5

Again.

Wesley gets 2x8 and 2x9 to hit location 8.  Darren gets nothing.

Wesley uses the 2x9 and sacrifices the 2x8 to hit Darren instead in the head.  This is 6 shock, reduced by 2 for the helmet to 4 shock.

Darren shakes his head but is starting to see stars...

Damage:  Darren 7 shock to torso 4 to head, Wesley 6 shock to torso, 5 shock to R. Leg.


Round 6

Again.

Wesley gets 2x10 and 3x4 to location 10.  Darren gets 2x1 to location 1.

Wesley chooses to use his 3x4 set, which goes off before Darren's 2x1 even though it isn't as solid a blow as his 2x10.  This does 3 shock reduced to 1 shock to Darren's head and ruins Darren's set.

Damage:  Darren 7 shock to torso 5 to head, Wesley 6 shock to torso, 5 shock to R. Leg.

Round 7

Again.

Wesley gets 2x8 to location 7.  Darren gets 2x4 to location 4.  Darren's set isn't high enough to block Wesley's attack, so he chooses to hit.

Darren takes 5 shock to the body while Wesley takes 3 shock to the R. Arm.

Damage:  Darren 12 shock to torso 5 to head, Wesley 6 shock to torso, 5 shock to R. Leg, 3 shock R. Arm.

Round 8

Again.

Wesley gets 2x4 to location 4.  Darren gets 2x4 to location 2.  Both of their swings get through.

Damage:  Darren 12 shock to torso 5 to head 3 to R. Arm.
         Wesley 6 shock to torso, 5 shock to R. Leg, 3 shock L. Leg, 3 shock R. Arm.

Round 9

Again.

Wesley gets 2x8 and 3x6 to Torso.  Darren gets 2x6 to L. Arm.

Wesley uses his 3x6 to attack first, and ruins Darren's set while dealing 4 shock to Darren's torso.

That's 16 shock, Darren is too badly beaten to continue and passes out.

End of Combat

Learning Points:

1. Both were using non-lethal weapons.  Once you have a weapon that deals both killing and shock, the damage more or less doubles.

2. Although Wesley had the clear lead, I think that was less the fact that Darren split his sets and more how many dice Darren had.  Wesley got multiple sets 3 rounds out of 9 and never got nothing.  Both were working with original Body + Melee/Block pools of 6d.  It looked to me like there was a critical difference between rolling 5d and rolling 6d.  If Darren had had 7 in that pool to start with instead of 6, he may well have thumped Wesley soundly.

In reply to GM (msg # 22):

Wesley fetches some water to throw on Darren.

"Not bad eh m'lord?"

When Darren comes to his friend helps him to his feet.  Half of all shock evaporates as the two rest on the ground.

In reply to GM (msg # 22):

*thunderous applause, as much as a single set of hands can make*

Great show lads great show!  I am glad to see your skill was not exaggerated

He hums a battle hymn, the sound is deep and resonant, a marching beat.

What do you think of that for the tune?

He begins to walk over to the suicide booth as you can hear his voice wafting back to the combatants

Out in the sun the men did clash,
the wooden swords moved like a flash...


/ooc the hardest part of writing this character is going to be writing songs and poems, I suck at both, but I do think I like this character.

As far as the roll I did Command + Perform (I called it acting by mistake) but did roll the appropriate dice.  Is that correct or did I still do something wrong? /ooc

In reply to Player 2 (msg # 24):

(OOC: as long as pool is correct, don't care what you said.)

In reply to GM (msg # 25):

[OOC: here will be challenges etc. to learn the O.R.E. and test character ideas.]

In a clearing in a densely wooded section of land, a local lord has erected a small obstacle course for the training and betterment of his Men-at-arms.  His knights, naturally, have their own training facilities on their own estates.

From the starting line, marked by notches in two thin saprolings, there is a short jog through the woods between trees (no roll required).

There is then a series of small trenches filled with mud and water (Body + Athletics or Running).  There is also a slippery log that spans the trenches to one side which you may choose instead to cross (Coordination + Acrobatics, failure means you fall in and get muddy).

Past that is a straight section of path with a wooden training dummy at the end of it.  When you climb out of the trenches, there is a spear you can pick up and throw at the dummy (Coordination + Throw, failure means you miss).

You then jog past the dummy where there is a wall made of logs that is about your height (Coordination + Climb, failure means you cannot climb the wall and must walk around).

Past that you cannot see.  When you get to the top you can look around (Sense + Sight or Hearing).

His Eminence has permitted you to run the obstacle course if you choose.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

His stave grasped lightly in his right hand and serving as his walking stick and guide, a beleaguered Dmitri saunters slowly toward the obstacle course.

Physical challenges. How droll.

Dmitri strolls slowly through the woods, arriving at the muddy trenches.

I knew I shouldn't have worn my nice robes.

Body [9,6,8]

Dmitri slowly and carefully traverses the trenches with no discerinble grace or aplomb. His vibrant red robes are caked with mud and drenched with water.

Delightful.

Dmitri makes his way forward, finding the spear.

Pointy end first, I suppose.

Coordination [4,8]

Dmitri tosses the spear, missing the dummy entirely.

At least it went forward!

[Coordination 3,3]

With surprising success, Dmitri scales the wall.

That was unexpected

Dmitri lands on the other side of the wall, confronted by an open clearing.

Sense 2x7

You there, what are you about?
This message was last edited by the player at 20:35, Wed 26 Nov 2014.

In reply to Player 3 (msg # 27):

"Oh me, sir?"  the assistant replies with a smirk, "just doing THIS!"

He then swings a sandbag at the end of a rope toward Dmitri (Coordination + Dodge to avoid 2 shock to arm and torso.  This is an easy task so +1d to your pool).

Before Dmitir is a long path which twists and turns and goes down a small hill and back up another (no roll required for run, but Body + Athletics to avoid fatigue).

At the end of that long trail is another assistant standing at a fork in the path.  He will be lazily munching an apple when you arrive.

The fork is not labeled, so you aren't sure which way to go.  Perchance the assistant does?

In reply to GM (msg # 28):

Dodge 2x1

Thankful that he'd been on edge after sensing the man in the brush, Dmitri is able to sidestep the swinging bag just before impact.

Well aren't you friendly.

Dmitri continues to plod along the obstacle course, surprised as anyone that he hasn't already failed.

Maybe there's less to this mercenary business than I'd been led to believe?

Dmitri continues to plod along the winding trail. While the going is slow, Dmitri avoids physical imposition from the journey.

Body+Endurance 2x7

Empathy+"Charisma" - 2x3

Dmitri approaches the man slowly, a welcoming smile stretched across his face.

Well met good sir. I have faced many obstacles in my journey, but I find myself bewildered most by this simple fork in the road. I am unfamiliar with these woods and must concede to needing assistance to continue my journey. Perchance can you take pity on a lost boy and point him in the right direction?

In reply to Dmitri Umbra (msg # 29):

(OOC: Charisma is not a skill.  Most likely Persuasion is the one you want.  Charisma is really closer to the Command stat, though the all-encompassing concept covered by charisma is split between Command and Empathy.  A very charismatic person would likely just have high Command.  A person who is very good one-on-one at reading and responding to people would have high Empathy.)

"The path t'the right's the one for you.  T'other is a dead-end," the man explains, swept up in Player 2's task.

Following the suggested path leads to a small ring formed by sharpened stakes driven into the ground.

There is a gap in the ring, beside which stand a bow, a small shield, a halfhelm and a waster (wooden sword).  There are also several arrows tipped with leather balls.  (each does Shock +1 damage).

In the ring stand two opponents.  These are large men bare but for leather breeches and metal halfhelms.  Each holds a waster of his own.

"Arm yourself, sir, and enter the ring," one announces.

(OOC:  after you pick up one or more weapons you may enter the ring.  The combat round begins when you declare your action and roll.  The men stand together about one round of movement away).
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:52, Wed 26 Nov 2014.

In reply to GM (msg # 1):

A completely different character saunters up to the obstacle course.

Playtime.

Body/Athletics [1,4,2,10,3]

Uldaf trudges through the mud filled trenches.

Oh I've known wet and cold before. What doesn't kill ye..

Coordination/Throw [3,6,2,5]

Uldar grabs the spear and hurls it true enough, easily smashing the rock ten feet left and behind the target that he'd been aiming for.

Success!

Climb [5,4,10]

Uldaf gets a running start and a beautiful leap up the wall, but can't maintain his grip, falling deftly into the mud and snow below.

Going swimmingly.

Finishing his climb, Xander hears a rustle in the bush.

Sense/Hearing [2x7]

Who's there? What are you about?

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 31):

"Oh me, sir?"  the assistant replies, obviously irked at having been spotted again.  "Just my job."

He then swings a sandbag at the end of a rope toward Uldaf (Coordination + Dodge to avoid 2 shock to arm and torso.  This is an easy task so +1d to your pool).

A long path twists and turns and goes down a small hill and back up another (no roll required for run, but Body + Athletics to avoid fatigue).

At the end of that long trail is another assistant standing at a fork in the path.  He will be lazily munching an apple when you arrive.

The fork is not labeled, so you aren't sure which way to go.  Perchance the assistant does?

In reply to GM (msg # 32):

Block [2x8]

Uldaf spins Yggdrasil and deftly deflects the incoming bag with a timed counterstroke from the staff's mighty head.

"And what's your problem?"

Uldaf sprints by without further discussion, reaching the fork in the road and the associated man.

Athletics [9,5, 2, 10, 7]

While Uldaf clears the distance capably, the run takes its toll.

Command/Psychology [2x5]

It's the right fork. I can tell. As soon I rode up, you looked right over your right shoulder. Like you were checking on it. No sense in lying to me about it. It's the right fork.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 33):

(OOC:  Perfect use of skills!  Love it!)

"I... yes but... "  the man stammers.  "Sure it is... go on ahead... they're expecting you."

Following the suggested path leads to a small ring formed by sharpened stakes driven into the ground.

There is a gap in the ring, beside which stand a bow, a small shield, a halfhelm and a waster (wooden sword).  There are also several arrows tipped with leather balls.  (each does Shock +1 damage).

In the ring stand two opponents.  These are large men bare but for leather breeches and metal halfhelms.  Each holds a waster of his own.

"Arm yourself, sir, and enter the ring," one announces.  "I'm Wesley and this here is Darren.  M'lord said you might be wanting a few turns at the waster after your jog."

(OOC:  after you pick up one or more weapons you may enter the ring.  The combat round begins when you declare your action and roll.  The men stand together about one round of movement away).
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:34, Tue 02 Dec 2014.

In reply to GM (msg # 34):

Yggy and I are ready for a scrap when you are.

Uldaf roars like a bear and charges the two men. Uldaf swipes his great club first toward the head of one man

Melee [3x9]

And grazing the legs of the other as the swing follows through

Melee [2x3]

Are you awake now lads?

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 35):

(OOC:  remember, making two attacks is a multi-action and you lose 1d from the LOWER of the two pools.  Here, both pools would be Body + Melee, so you roll that pool -1d and look for two sets).

(OOC: also, if you're going to sacrifice power for accuracy, i.e. bump the 9 to 10 hit location, please include that in your post.  Otherwise I'll assume you don't.  For now, I'm assuming your "greatclub" is the same stats as a club, but we can work that out later)

Surprised by the ferocity of Uldaf's onslaught, both men attack rather than think of any sort of balance.

Wesley gets 3x9 and clocks Uldaf for 5 Shock to his torso.  At the same time, Uldaf returns the same blow to the tune of 7 shock.

The damage taken ruins Uldaf's second set and Darren whiffs.

Damage:
Uldaf 5 shock to torso
Wesley 7 shock to torso
Darren none

ROUND 2

Both Wesley and Darren will attack.
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:50, Tue 02 Dec 2014.

In reply to GM (msg # 36):

Uldaf hammers his cudgel into chest of Darren

Melee [3x7]

and taunts the noble Wesley

You hit like my sister. Bet she fucks better.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 37):

"No she doesn't... I mean... WAIT!"

Wesley attempts to sneak around Uldaf's side but can't get a shot in past the swinging cudgel (no sets).

Darren attempts to sweep Uldaf's leg (2x2 hit location 1) but the heavy blow to his chest interrupts him (set broken.  height 7 does 6 shock to Darren's chest).

Damage: Uldaf 5 shock to torso
Wesley: 7 shock to torso
Darren: 6 shock to torso

Round 3

Wesley presses the attack.  Darren will attempt to block and attack.

In reply to GM (msg # 38):

Beat Stick [5, 2x7]

At least Darren has the good sense to cower lad.

Uldaf smacks the beleaguered Wesley, washing Yggy in the unsuspecting chap's blood.

Had enough?

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 39):

Uldaf's taunt is cut-off as Wesley's waster connects with his shoulder.  The blow throws off the brawler's aim enough that he misses his target.

(3x2 to location 7.  1 shock but ruins Uldaf's set)

"Hardly," Wesley retorts.  He looks over at Darren.

"Oy, you going to quit beating your cock and beat this cock-head instead?"

Damage:
Uldaf 6 Shock to torso
Wesley 7 shock to torso
Darren 6 shock to torso

Round 4

Spurred on by his companion, Darren commits himself to the attack.  Wesley continues to press his advantage.

In reply to GM (msg # 40):

Looks like you're the head of the class.

[10, 2x6]

Uldaf indulges the man's taunt and wallops Darren in the head.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 41):

Uldaf's heavy stick rattles Darren's helmet like a meaty bell (5 Shock to head, reduced by 2 from helmet with is 1LAR + 1 HAR).

Darren tries to catch Uldaf on the backswing but his head is spinning too much to make any use of his weapon.

Wesley on the other hand, sneaks around Uldaf's guard and thwacks him solidly in the head.  (rolled 2x9 to location 9.  Dropped set to 2x7 to adjust to loction 10)


Uldaf is seeing stars but still on his feet.

Damage:
Uldaf: 6 Shock to torso, 4 shock to head.
Wesley: 7 shock to torso.
Darren: 6 shock to torso, 3 shock to head.

Round 5

"If you're not going to help, Darren, why don't you sit down?"

Darren buckles down and gives this one last go.  Wesley continues his assault.

In reply to GM (msg # 42):

Don't be shitty Wesley. There's plenty of Iggy love to go around.

BeatStick [6, 2x10]

Oof. Ribs just should not make sounds like that lad. Not one bit.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 43):

(OOC: assuming from your witty banter you're hitting Wesley now?  If you intend a target, please specify).

Somewhere between the insults and the blow to the head, Darren figures out what he's doing and cracks Uldaf right on his right wrist (3x4 location 4 2nd set ignored.  2 shock, set ruined)

Wesley steps to the side of Uldaf's stick and thunks him in the other arm (2x5 location 6, 3 shock L. arm)

"Drop that stick before you get hurt," Wesley chuckles.

Damage:
Uldaf: 6 shock to torso, 4 shock to head, 2 shock to R. arm, 3 to L. Arm.
Darren: 6 shock to torso, 3 shock to head
Wesley: 7 shock to torso

Round 6

Neither man seems inclined to back down now.

(OOC: you can bow out whenever you've had enough or you can keep practicing).

In reply to GM (msg # 44):

I've not yet begun to fight!

BeatStick [4, 2x6]

Uldaf swings clumsily at the prancing Wesley.

Yer lucky there's two of you.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 45):

Wesley makes a poor showing and takes the full attack to his R. Arm (5 shock).

Darren uses Uldaf's focus on his friend as an excuse to thwack him solidly in the L. arm (2x10, 5 shock.  As the arm has only 6 slots, 2 existing shock are converted to Killing).

Uldaf's Left arm is bloody, bruised and with that last hit, likely broken (unusable this combat).

Damage:
Uldaf: 6 shock to torso, 4 to head, 2 to R. arm, 4 shock and 2 killing to L. arm.
Darren: 6 shock to torso, 3 to head.
Wesley: 7 shock to torso, 5 to right arm.

Round 7

"That looks pretty bad," Darren notes of Uldaf's limp arm.  "Might we call it a day, sir?"

In reply to GM (msg # 46):

It's just a flesh wound!

Uldaf swings haplessly, missing all comers.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 47):

Crouched on the roof of a nearby shack, Brennan watches the fight unfold with curiosity. His arm had healed in the days since he ran the course himself, but it still tingled sympathetically when he watched the crazed fighter's arm break in the arena.

Quietly, he draws a blunted arrow and sets his sights on the more skilled of the two: Wesley.

[Archery + Coordination: 9, 5x9]

The shot is the best he's ever fired, and the arrow sails straight and true toward the man's chest. Jubilant at the result of his efforts, he nods his thanks to the mighty god Yahtzee for favoring his shot.

"That ought to even the odds," he says under his breath. "Because really, what's the fun of a 2-v-1 fight?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:12, Sat 06 Dec 2014.

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 48):

The arrow hits Wesley dead center on his right nipple and the shock of it knocks him clean off his feet onto his arse.

"Whoa, whoa!" Darren calls out waving his arms.  "You got us, sir, good shot."

The two men stand down and Darren helps Wesley to his feet.

(OOC: end combat, half the shock in each hit location evaporates.  All Killing stays.  ORE is much more... flexible in the effects of damage, leaving it up to the GM exactly what side-effects hits and damage have.  As a general rule, if your dominant arm is disabled, it will incur a -2d penalty to related die pools.)

In reply to GM (msg # 49):

Uldaf attempts to mend Wesley immediately

[Unsuccessful First Aid]

but is unable to do much to ease the man's suffering.

Sorry lad, that one's going to need some real attention.

Uldaf tends to own wounds much more successfully.

[First Aid, 2x8]

Ah. Much better. And who's the lad with the crack shot?

Oy. You there. That was an incredible shot. Thanks for the assist, but I had them just where I wanted them!

Uldaf shakes a blood soaked Yggy at the in increasingly over their heads Wesley and Darren.

Are you on this blasted obstacle course? Is there any purpose to it? Tell me your name archer and I'll tell you mine true. And if you are so inclined, head toward town with me for a pint and roast of what we'll hope was once an animal.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 50):

Resetting this thread for Player 4, but if you two would like to finangle meeting in-game prior to start, that's fine.

In reply to GM (msg # 51):

[OOC: here will be challenges etc. to learn the O.R.E. and test character ideas.]

In a clearing in a densely wooded section of land, a local lord has erected a small obstacle course for the training and betterment of his Men-at-arms.  His knights, naturally, have their own training facilities on their own estates.

From the starting line, marked by notches in two thin saprolings, there is a short jog through the woods between trees (no roll required).

There is then a series of small trenches filled with mud and water (Body + Athletics or Running).  There is also a slippery log that spans the trenches to one side which you may choose instead to cross (Coordination + Acrobatics, failure means you fall in and get muddy).

Past that is a straight section of path with a wooden training dummy at the end of it.  When you climb out of the trenches, there is a spear you can pick up and throw at the dummy (Coordination + Throw, failure means you miss).

You then jog past the dummy where there is a wall made of logs that is about your height (Coordination + Climb, failure means you cannot climb the wall and must walk around).

Past that you cannot see.  When you get to the top you can look around (Sense + Sight or Hearing).

His Eminence has permitted you to run the obstacle course if you choose.

In reply to GM (msg # 52):

Enrei stood at the edge of the woods grinning as he surveyed the course before him.  This looked like fun.  The course's owner had said Enrei was free to do whatever he wanted outside just so long as the lord didn't have to deal with him, quite the generous offer in these lands.  After giving his legs a quick stretch, the dusky brute took off between the trees that marked the starting gate.

(athletics 2x4 )

When he comes to the trenches, Enrei's brisk jog turns to bounding leaps as he clears the trenches with not much more than his feet any muddier than when he arrived.  He slows his pace as he approaches the dummy and spear.  Picking up the weapon he tests its weight in his hand, then looks around to see if anyone was watching the potential feat of aim and power.

(throw 2x10)
Convinced he has no audience, Enrei hurls the spear at the would-be scarecrow.  There's a loud THWOCK as the spear strikes the post in the middle of the dummy, the entire spearhead sunk into the stuffing.  Enrei has the courtesy to retrieve the spear, though he does need to brace his leg against the dummy to finally pull the weapon free.

(climb 2x2)
When he comes to the wall he takes a moment before running and leaping at it.  The logs are slipperier than he gave them credit for, and he surmounts the obstacle with less grace than he had planned.

(sight 2x5)
At the top of the wall he looks out to see what else lies ahead of him.  He's a bit surprized to notice a man just off the side of the course "Hello!" he declares a bit more loudly than necessary.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 53):

"Oh me, um... whoever you are,"  the assistant replies, obviously irked at having been spotted again.  "Just my job."

He then swings a sandbag at the end of a rope toward Enrei (Coordination + Dodge to avoid 2 shock to arm and torso.  This is an easy task so +1d to your pool).

A long path twists and turns and goes down a small hill and back up another (no roll required for run, but Body + Athletics to avoid fatigue).

At the end of that long trail is another assistant standing at a fork in the path.  He will be lazily munching an apple when you arrive.

The fork is not labeled, so you aren't sure which way to go.  Perchance the assistant does?

In reply to GM (msg # 54):

(Dodge 2x5)

Enrei leaps aside as the sandbag is sent flying at him, then laughs quite jovially "You should not throw the bag when someone is here, mister My Job.  Someone could get hurt from your exercise."  Waggling a finger in admonishment, the big islander takes off down the winding trail at a brisk jog.

(2x7 to avoid fatigue)

As Enrei approaches the fork in the road, just building up a sweat, he frowns, realizing he doesn't know the way.  He slows his pace and tries to think of the best way to address the man with the apple.  Intent to not embarrass himself on a very fancy lord's poperty, he tries to remember how folk back in the ports used to talk.

(Failure at empathy + negotiate)

"Look at this fucking limp dick!" he manages an impeccable Bayton accent as he recounts a greeting he remembers from around the taverns, before slipping back to his native accent, "Standing around like a sign.  Tell me which way to go, sign-man!" he smiles broadly, hands on his hips, confident that his message is clear.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 55):

The man pauses mid-bite, nearly choking on a bit of apple.  Whether this is at the sight or the sound of the Islander is unclear.

"M'lord said nothing 'bout being no tour guide.  Jess' 't sit an mind the path is all."

The man frowns when he notices that nothing he just said seems to have registered with Enrei.

"What I mean... sir, is that s'not my job to tell you which way to go... though I've little inclination to keep secrets."

Once again the man pauses and waits for Enrei's big grin to turn into words.  When this doesn't happen the man leans forward slightly and speaks much more slowly.

"What... what I'm MEANING is... I know which path you want... I just... aw to the Dream of Hell with it... you got any coin?"

Enrei nods slowly.

"Then turn over a penny'r two and I'll tell you the way."

When Enrei complies the man points him in the proper direction.

In reply to GM (msg # 56):

Following the suggested path leads to a small ring formed by sharpened stakes driven into the ground.

There is a gap in the ring, beside which stand a bow, a small shield, a halfhelm and a waster (wooden sword).  There are also several arrows tipped with leather balls.  (each does Shock +1 damage).

In the ring stand two opponents.  These are large men bare but for leather breeches and metal halfhelms.  Each holds a waster of his own.

"Arm yourself, sir, and enter the ring," one announces.

(OOC:  after you pick up one or more weapons you may enter the ring.  The combat round begins when you declare your action and roll.  The men stand together about one round's movement away).

In reply to GM (msg # 57):

Enrei was a bit upset at the toll road, no one had informed him, he might not have tried to impress the man if he'd known it was just business.  but then he came to the ring, and the two men, and his face brightened, "Oh!  We are fighting!  This will be fun," he states as he quickly pulls the knives and axe off his belt to rest with the other weapons, and pulls off his thick vest so that he is not clothed any better than his opponents. He picks up the halfhelm and dons it, rattling the jewelry and baubles tied to his hair beneith it, then picks up the waister on the ground, considering its weight in his off-hand.

(multiple action body + martial arts to defend with sword (3x5), and using martial bonus to knockdown the guy on the right(2x10).  10,9,1,10,5,5,5,7,1)

Apparently satisfied with the sword Enrei holds it up at an odd striking angle and then, with a shout, charges straight for the man on his right.  As he approaches it becomes clear the sword is not at a terrible striking angle but a competent defensive one, as Enrei keeps it cross to his opponents' own even as he brings his other arm up, aiming to slam the inside of his elbow into his target's neck and drive all of his considerable weight behind it.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 58):

The two men join the fray gladly:

(OOC: And now we get to learn about Martial Arts and more complex multi-actions!  You did the multi-action penalty correctly.  However, Martial Arts is a Coordination skill in this example since you're using a weapon.  Therefore the pool would be one smaller.  Once you're wrestling/grappling with someone or fighting without weapons, you can use Body instead of Coordination if you like.  Additionally, when you choose to Block or Dodge, you must designate a target of the block.  Since you're not normally able to defend against multiple enemies, this is effectively the 'gang-up' bonus in this system.  The exception is that when you are using a proper shield, your Block roll automatically applies to all enemies you are aware of.  Shields are nice.  For this combat, I made the assumption you block the attacker on the left and hit the guy on the right).

Enrei's waster moves quickly and easily intercepts Wesley's attack (he swung 2x9 but your 3x5 goes off first).

The big islander doesn't have time to stop Darren's incoming attack (2x5 to hit location 7 is 3 shock to body) but IS able to catch the poor man on the side of the head and with a twist and a pull, knock the man to his back (deals 1 shock but the helmet absorbs that.  Darren is now on the ground).

(OOC: what does knocked down do?  Well you need to spend your action getting up if you want to stand again.  You can crawl, slowly, or make attacks/blocks at reduced effectiveness.  You cannot do things like dodge, run, etc.  I'm very curious about how this knocking down ability plays out... hopefully it isn't so broken that it needs modification but we'll see.)

Damage:
Enrei: 3 Shock to body.
Darren: On the ground

Round 2


Darren 2x5 to 6 with burn

In reply to GM (msg # 59):

Normally Enrei would have been eager to leap upon his prone target and twist him into submission but he was outnumbered.  This would require strategy and finesse.  So, he wheeled around with his fist balled at Wesley.  The blow to his ribs has him off balance and he can't quite land it on the chin.

(martial arts uses body for no weapons?  go fist!  martial arts power plus or minus 2 aim with the third worst possible roll on 10d10: 2,10,1,3,4,1,7,6,5,8 letting me hit 4 but do i even do damage with my nonstandard unarmed?)

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 60):

(OOC:  Wow... that was fairly spectacular!  2x1 set to hit location 2 which you can adjust to 4.  So... with a height of one, since your unarmed does Killing you would normally do 0 damage because of rounding.  I'll rule that in this unlikely scenario, you still do 1 Shock.)

Darren dusts himself off and stands up.

Wesley is unable to hit the islander, swinging wildly over the man's head until he catches a fist to the R. arm.

"Ow.. dropping your weapon?" Wesley shouts.

Damage:
Enrei: 3 Shock to body
Wesley: 1 shock to R. Arm

Round 3

Both will attack Enrei, since they have the advantage in numbers again.

In reply to GM (msg # 61):

(body +martial arts, called shot for an attempt to disarm wesley.  4,8,6,2,8,2,3,5,5.  question about martial arts bonuses.  my original intent was to use the aim bonus again, to ensure the shot hit regardless of rolled location, but the called shot, 3 pairs and 4 for a hit location takes care of that.  i'd much rather up my initiative.  should i include my bonus in reason for roll, ahead of time?)

Enrei snatches at Wesley's weapon in response to his question, "Hands are better!" With no true edge to it, Enrei grips the "blade" and attempts to simply yank the wooden sword from its owner.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 62):

(OOC: yes, you must choose the Martial Arts bonus you are going to use BEFORE you roll.)


Darren swings and misses the large but surprisingly nimble Enrei (no set) while the big islander focuses on Wesley.  Wesley in turn is able to lay his weapon along Enrei's back with a loud crack (2x5 to hit location 9, 3 shock to torso).  It appears however that Enrei expected this as he then loops one arm around the weapon and tosses it to the ground.

Damage:
Wesley: 2 shock to R. Arm
Enrei: 6 shock to body

Round 4

Thus disarmed and humiliated, Wesley throws up his arms and bows out.

Darren, however, presses on.

In reply to GM (msg # 63):

(4,5,8,10,3,6,9,7,4,1 to martial knockdown Darren.  i forgot knockdown was a bonus, so i rerolled rather than mislabeling my action.  hopefully after this i'll remember how many things i can do in combat.)

Enrei frowns when Wesley holds his hands up and backs away just because of a lack of weapon, but when he turns and sees Darren back on his feet and waving his sword, the Islander's smile returns.  He tosses his confiscated sword aside and rushes his opponent arm stretching forward.  it seems he's going for another easy disrm, until he grasps wrist, rather than wood, and hauls Darren forward and down toward the dirt.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:22, Tue 16 Dec 2014.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 64):

Darren, somehow, has apparently found a previously untapped well of skill.  He anticipates the throw and rolls with it, coming up and cracking Enrei across the arm with a middling blow (2 Shock).

(OOC:  Darren got a 3x4 set, which being wider than Enrei's 2x4, goes off first.  Since it dealt damage, it removes a die from Enrei's set thus ruining it).

"Not so cocky now, eh?"  Darren boasts.  "Shall I keep my waster or do you intend for us to wrestle?"

Damage:
Enrei: 6 shock body, 2 shock R. Arm

Round 5

Darren will attack either armed or unarmed based on Enrei's response.  He will let you pick up your waster first if you wish.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:36, Wed 17 Dec 2014.

In reply to GM (msg # 65):

(called shot using martial bonus to improve aim 6,1,7,5,5,7,2,8,6 i think i can move that up 4 without dropping a set to hit location 10 and choke Darren)

Enrei nods with a smile as Darren taunts him, "You are better at this than I thought.  I will not take your stick.". Enrei runs at Darren, arms wide.  Done with subtlety, he moves with no regard for the counterstrike and reaches out to grab at whatever he can on the other man.  Once he finds a hold it's a quick twist to wrap the most opportune elbow around his opponent's neck and squeeze. "If you want to wrestle, I will wrestle!"

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 66):

(OOC: Yes, that's how it works).

Enrei charges in joyously, ignoring the pain of Darren's waster being driven into his stomach (2x5 3 shock).  He then wraps his massive hands around Darren's throat and begins to choke the living crap out of him (does 1 Shock to head and will continue to do damage).

(OOC:  Unless you want to do something else, your next round action will be to maintain the choke and you roll again your martial arts.  Darren can either spend his action breaking free or else hit you).

Damage:
Darren: 1 shock to head
Enrei: 9 Shock to body, 2 Shock R. Arm.

Round 6

In reply to GM (msg # 67):

(4,8,8,6,9,1,9,10,7,8 question about choking and strangling, it breaks if i take damage.  does the choking damage potentially break the victim's set and/or something else to keep any errant blow from pulling me free?  does my initiative matter in whether or not that happens?  can i use my martial bonus to improve my choking initiative, if it does matter?)

Once his grip is firm Enrei goes about reinforcing his lock, pulling Darren in close, looping one arm around the man to restrict his movement and generally doing everything he can to tighten the pressure on his air passage.  The deep, jolly laughter is probably a bit disconcerting for the man fighting to breathe, as well.  "If you tap my arm three times, I will think you give up, yes?" he offers.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 68):

(OOC: Yeah, the rules get a little mucky here... so this is how I'll house-rule it until I find out it doesn't work:

To continue choking, you don't need to roll, you just declare it and the damage will automatically happen.  I asked for you to roll just in case Darren tried to break free, we already know your roll to hold him.  However, if you'd failed to make a set, your hold WOULD NOT automatically break unless he hit you or got a set to escape.

This means there's no initiative with choking, which makes it a little tough on the "broken sets on damage issue."  It makes the most sense to me (and is the least complicated) to assume that the choking damage goes off at the end of the round after everything else.  This gives the target a chance to escape before being hurt.

I think this is the way it was meant to be interpreted because "ends when you take damage" is a key difference between choking and pinning (you can do both).  When you choke without first "setting it up", you're just standing in front of them with your hands around the enemy neck, and thus he's free to punch you in the gut to get free.)

Darren gags and chokes, but works his waster around and clocks Enrei upside the head with the hilt (3x8 to location 10, 4 shock reduced to 2 by helmet).  He gasps for air as Enrei is forced to give up his hold for the moment.

Damage:
Darren: 1 shock to head
Enrei: 9 Shock to body, 2 Shock to head, 2 Shock R. arm

Round 7

(if i pin and then choke will damage not break it, or just stop the choking while leaving him pinned?
i'm going to try a barehanded block with 3x5 because apparently i can, and 2x9 to knock him on the ground. 9,3,1,5,4,7,5,9,5)

Enrei is staggered from the blow, rather glad for his borrowed headgear.   He shakes his head before getting his bearings, pleased once the two men stop spinning and settle back into one.  He wanted a real fight.  Enrei would not dissapoin.  Whith another shout he charged again, this time he kept one arm ready to deflect the wooden sword before he dropped his shoulder, aiming it straight at Darren's chest, trying to bowl the smaller man over with brute power.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 70):

(OOC: Yeah, my understanding is that if he's pinned and then you start a choke, he can break the 'choke' but still be pinned, which means you're just going to start choking him again.  Likely, based on the scenario, I won't make everyone roll all that.  The nice thing about ORE is that each die in a stat/skill also translates to a very large difference in level of proficiency.  So, for example, if you get an enemy into a choke and there's nothing else going on, I may just compare your relative skill and if you're "better" than him enough, rule you choke him out.  As with any system, grappling etc. are finicky and clunky and screw you for making me figure this all out! /snark)

Darren swings wildly, unable to get in a good solid blow where Enrei's hands aren't already.

(OOC:  blocking a weapon like a waster barehanded is fine, doing so against a sword, axe or anything with points/metal will "work" but have dire consequences for your hands/arms)

Enrei catches Darren's arm and flips him easily onto his back.

"Allright!" Darren calls out as he stares up at Enrei's towering form.  "I yield."

"You're just lucky," Wesley comments as Darren dusts himself off.  "That these are wasters and not real steel."

END COMBAT

In reply to GM (msg # 71):

Unless there are objections, this thread will soon vanish into the Ether...

In reply to GM (msg # 72):

Can you post a high level summary of all the decisions we came to in this thread like about how rolls can shift in height based on adjusting hitbox target, etc?

I'd almost suggest an ongoing thread of "House rules"

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 73):

the game system and rules thread has mention of that specific mechanic, either a new post or just heading for house rules might be enough.  i'd request if you're goig to obliterate this thread entirely, at least put your judgements about knockdown, pinning, and choking we just went over.  my goal was to put combat through its paces, i'd appreciate a standing reference because i'll be using them whether you like it or not (HAHAHA!).  also, you mentioned the knockdown "condition" would be a "run with it and see if it works" kind of thing, so if you change your mind you can put a revised ruling somewhere.

In reply to Enrei Omal'i (msg # 74):

Ok, I'll do two things:

1. Add a "house rules" section in rules with condensed versions of what happens here and in the future.

2. I'll leave this thread but revise it to a general "OOC test" thread if anyone wants to test mechanics/combat in the future.

In reply to GM (msg # 75):

Can you also capture how hit locations move up/down based on raising/lowering height?

Thanks for doing this, very helpful.

Question on combat though. I don't have martial arts, but I do have combat specific to my weapon. Is there a bonus to that? Should there be? Essentially, I didn't take the more broad skill/bonuses and was precise about what he can do, but he gets less benefit for it?

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 76):

I'll include that, yes.

No, there's no weapon proficiency or specialization.  If you pick up a weapon you've never used before or is highly unconventional, I may add a penalty, but that should be rare.

Practically speaking, swinging a sword is indeed different than swinging an axe or a staff.  However, a large portion of the practical 'combat principles' covered by the Melee, Brawl and Martial Arts skills (timing, distance, reaction, power transfer, hit locations, etc.) are common to all weapons.

As an aside, I've never been a fan of high-degrees of weapon specialization in RPGs.  I understand the practical basis, but it seems to just lead to min/maxing.  Either the character gets huge bonuses without sacrificing much or they piss and moan when you take away their preferred weapon.

In reply to GM (msg # 77):

An empty patch of the size of a football field dirt appears from the aether, surrounded by impenetrable walls that cannot be climbed.

Any equipment, scenario, weapons or foes you wish to summon for testing will oblige.

In reply to GM (msg # 78):

What kind of shops are in this new town?

In reply to Titus Blackwell (msg # 79):

I think you want the regular OOC discussion thread...

Also; town?  It's just one building at the crossroads.

This message was deleted by the player at 14:49, Tue 06 Jan 2015.

In reply to Titus Blackwell (msg # 81):

Well, this is your element. Nothing to be ashamed of, love reading them!

In reply to Brennan Otthild (msg # 82):

Heh. Comes dearly.

In reply to Uldaf Asbjorn (msg # 83):

Titus and Lump walk up to an old rickety bridge crossing 20 feet of chasm over pointy rocks.

Lump can you make it over the bridge?

Lump nods reassuringly.

OK.  You go first I'm right behind you. 


/ooc I want to see what I can do to help Lump cross, and also how I can save him if he does fall. /ooc

In reply to Titus Blackwell (msg # 84):

What's your plan?

In reply to GM (msg # 85):

Lump goes out with me providing an assist, fails and I have to catch him.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:35, Wed 18 Feb 2015.