How many factors are you typically using?

[Aramis]

Skill at 2, +wise, +3 for team is still 6d; if they can cobble up an advantage... 7d. If they can coble up a tool, as well, 8d.

The other thing is I didn't run it with stock characters, but with my group. Two of whom were using stocks, but not the grasslake characters.

The stock characters have 2 fighter 4's, plus weapons, plus 3 help, those are 7D-8D throws in combat, should they fight it, more if they recruit locals.

That mission is pretty damned easy, once you get to the turtle... split into two teams, filling out with NPC's to 4mouse teams... one defends while the other attacks. On your 1st attack, spend your persona for adding nature, and you shoot up to 11D-12D, and if you get several 6's, fate those. Beast can be taken in one round with a little luck and some persuasion, and some Artha.

To that group of characters, it should look like a nail to be hammered; it's their only strong area.

I had two players with Loremouse at 2... they chose to talk, and then used Persuade 4 and deceiver 3 to talk it away. (Used Conflict-Duel of Wits...)

[buzz]

Ah, I see. We were running with just two PCs one session and three the next (ergo, less help). Not to mention, we were all pretty green with the rules. I see better some of the possible synergies. Thanks!

[Serpine]

Beast can be taken in one round with a little luck and some persuasion, and some Artha.

This has been driving me crazy. What in tarnation is this Artha thing I keep seeing mentioned? Is that BW term? An acronym? What?