GM Aarvid PFS #6-04: The Beacon Below (Inactive)

Game Master GM Aarvid

Mission Briefing and Resources |
Level 1 - Study Halls Map | Level 2 - Library|Level 3


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Rebels Map

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Rebels Map

Once you all arrive, Venture-Captain Norden Balentiir rubs sleep from his eyes as faint pre-dawn light filters into his office.

He shutters the window as a thrush begins singing loudly in the garden below before gesturing for everyone to have a seat and addressing the matter at hand.

“I’ve received a request from the Diamond Sage, Tahonikepsu, the leader of the Jeweled Sages.
You may be familiar with her as an associate of Amenopheus,
longtime friend of the Society and our trusted expert on matters of Ancient Osirion.
She has asked the Pathfinder Society to send its best Osirionologists to the Pillars of the Sun
to help explore a sealed-off area in the sages’ stronghold there—so I have recommended you.”

He searches his desk for quill and ink and scribbles out two notes, sealing one with wax imprinted with the Way of the Open Road.

“I’ve made arrangements with a caravan to Eto and provided directions from there to the Pillars of the Sun.
Once you’ve reached the Pillars, Tahonikepsu has promised a guide to see you the rest of the way.
We have maps and sketches from the last expedition if you want to familiarize yourself with the site,
and I have also withdrawn several scrolls from our reserves in case your Ancient Osiriani is rusty.
Feel free to arrange alternate transport—at your own expense.
Don’t try using magic to reach the sanctum directly,
though; there’s no telling where you’d end up.”

The venture-captain rises from his seat to see everyone off, and hands over the two letters.

“Show the first letter to the caravan master.
The sealed one is your letter of introduction to the Diamond Sage.
Remember, the Jeweled Sages are invaluable allies in our exploration of Ancient Osirion,
and it’s a privilege to be invited into their sanctum.
Treat everything there with care, and help to preserve the region’s past.”

Dark Archive

Half Orc Monk(Hungry Ghost) 7/Fighter(Weaponmaster) 4 (HP 64/75; AC:24, T:20, FF:22; Fort:+16 Ref:+13 Will:+13(+2 versus enchantments); Init+2; Perc+17 Darkvision 60) (Effects:)

"The caravan will be fine. Do you know anything else about the unsealed parts of the stronghold?" Noble is a 6 foot tall gray skinned half orc. He wears little but his trousers and his pack. His hands and feet are taped up and his head is clean shaven.

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

*Prelude*:
“The Entity keeps saying the answer is UNCLEAR. But I think He’s messing with me and really doesn’t know.”

Luisila dares to lift her forehead from the plush carpet to regard the stern features of her High Priestess, currently slouched sideways in her throne of ebony and gold.

“There’s no way He’s a casteless Drone concubine as He claims, Eminence. His turn of phrase and … graphic compensation demands are hallmarks of Protean Lord Threv, Who is notorious for testing mortals who have recently been gifted the ability to commune.

“Your Eminence, it doesn’t matter how I phrase the question … Yes, I have experienced your lash’s embrace … No, I can’t explain why morale isn’t improving despite your sublime application of it …”

“I understand. Failure is not an option. Thank-you for your guidance, Eminence. Will that be all?”

A frustrated Luisila leaves the High Priestess’ audience chamber, working the *crick* out of her neck as she trudges outside the Pleasure Salon into Absalom’s late afternoon sunshine.

I need a vacation. Sun and sand in an exotic locale would be Elysium!

Then she spots a messenger attired in the livery of the Grand Lodge.

⛪⛪⛪⛪

“That seems straight forward, Venture-Captain.”

One of your companions is a tall half-elven woman of an indeterminate age. Introducing herself as "Luisila" her green eyes shine with mischief and match the color of the travel-stained cloak she wears. Her untamed, coppery hair seems to be trying to escape from the black leather thong holding it in a ponytail.

Her head is crowned with a bronze diadem, decorated with a flowing ‘ribbon’ motif of oak leaves, berries and wasps. Interlocked above the coronet, is a second circlet featuring two short, swept azata wings jutting out on either side of her head.

On closer inspection, the pointed shape and appearance of the ‘wings’ could easily be confused with a she-demon’s horns.

Luisila waits politely for Norden Balentiir to respond to Savage before her voice rises with an enquiring lilt. “Am I correct in thinking the resources of Sandswept Hall will be at our disposal before the caravan departs?”

I have a copy of the Pathfinder Companion - Pathfinder Society Primer, which I believe decreases the DC to identify a cursed item by 2 and gives a +3 bonus on Linguistics checks to decipher Ancient Osiriani if we start the mission in Balentiir’s Sandswept Hall.

Is that OK, GM Aarvid?

To her companions the half-elf asks, “Does anyone speak Ancient Osiriani? Otherwise, I might purchase a few comprehend language scrolls before we leave Sothis.”

Grand Lodge

AC 22 T 15 FF 18 | HP 80+11/80 | F +15 R +20 W +12 (+1 vs. psn, disease; Immune evil mind control) | Init +11 | Perc +25 (30 vs. traps) (Dark 60) | SM +8 | Bomb 5/19 | Wing 8/11 | Boot 5/10 | HeightAware, InvMind (6), Heroism, DexMut

San Xiao reclines in the most comfortable chair in the room, and snaps his finger, sending his porter to collect the letters offered. The servant then resumes fanning San Xiao as he examines them. "I speak the language. And I am perhaps the society's foremost expert on delving into dangerous ruins. You are lucky that I was available."

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

“Wow, Master Ben! So when a Society scout discovers the latest Tomb of Horrors, Valsin and Co immediately decide to send you in.”

Luisila purses her lips and nods slowly at the alchemist. “I can totally understand why.”


Rebels Map

Venture-Captain Norden Balentiir nods to Luisila's requests on lore and language.

"As promised, here are three scrolls of comprehend languages, a scroll of tongues, and a field primer"

He hands the scrolls to Luisila, the primer to San Xiao and the sealed letter to Savage.

The primer grants a PC a +2 bonus on Linguistics checks to decipher Ancient Osiriani.

"I can only answer a few questions and nothing of the stronghold I have not already stated.
Otherwise you have a few hours to purchase supplies and research the Jeweled Sages or the Pillars of the Sun before the caravan departs."

I am going to wait for the others to report before I continue.

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

"HA! Another trip into the godforsaken deserts of Osirion!" He says, with a cheerful laugh. "All the sand, scorpions, and curses you could ever hope for!"

It quickly becomes apparent that the dwarf named Noisy, is just that. He does not appear to have an 'inside voice', every word enunciated with volume, as if trying to project it as far as possible.

He smiles at the others, and gives an overly exaggerated bow.

"The Marquis de Noisy, at your service!" He adds, by way of introduction. Although it appears to be a noble title, the slight grin on his face seems to indicate he is not overly invested in the nobility of it all.

"Noisy, to pretty much everyone!" He amends a moment later.

Wearing clothing appropriate to the climate, he fidgets slightly, obviously having just recently changed into it. A high-quality and well-worn drum hangs from one hip, and the long twin metallic muzzles of an exotic firearm poke up over one shoulder.

"I've a number of long dead languages rattling around my head." He responds, later, at Luisala's question. "But it would appear there are yet more to take up space," He grimaces slightly. "Since sadly none of them are Osiriani."

"But it would appear our ostentatious friend here has that base covered!" He adds with a raised busy eyebrow towards San Xiao.

Just a quick intro post to get the thread to show up!

Dark Archive

Half Orc Monk(Hungry Ghost) 7/Fighter(Weaponmaster) 4 (HP 64/75; AC:24, T:20, FF:22; Fort:+16 Ref:+13 Will:+13(+2 versus enchantments); Init+2; Perc+17 Darkvision 60) (Effects:)

"I speak orc. I doubt that helps." Noble speaks stoically as he takes and stows the letter in his pack. He just raises an eyebrow at the silly dwarf claiming to be a Marquis.

Liberty's Edge

Male Half-Elf HERO 11 | HP 101/135 | AC 30 -T16 -FF 26 CMD30 | F+13(15) R+11(+13) W+11(+13) (modifiers apply) | Per +5(+7), Init +8 | Rage: 11rds * Claws: 5rds * Perf: 8rds

Conan clangs into the room, slightly out of breath. He is a tall half-elf, unusually muscular for a race that normally tends to some slenderness, with copper-colored hair and a dazzling white smile. He is wearing a shiny breasplate, and has a greatsword strapped at his back. He snaps off a salute to the captain.

"SORRY I AM LATE SIR! THERE WAS AN EMERGENCY WITH A KITTEN THAT NEEDED TO BE RETRIEVED FROM A TREE!"

Much like Noisy, it seems he does poorly with the concept of inside voices.

Quickly catching up on the briefing so far, Conan looks eager and excited. "I've never been to Osirion! It will be an excellent trip to research NEW MATERIAL. --OH, LUISILA, HELLO!" Conan beams very widely at the Calistrian cleric, sincerely happy to see her.

"--anyway, I don't speak the language, but... I do have a wand of endure elements! No need to fear THE HEAT."

Conan bows to the others. "Conan O'Brien, as I'm sure you can tell! At your service! Specialties include Vanquishing Evil, Freeing the Downtrodden, and Making People Laugh!"

Between Noisy and me, we ought to charitably buy everyone in the group earplugs...

Conan tries to think if he knows anything about the Pillars of the Sun-- not really a lot of comedians coming out of there, really...

(Any KN checks that would be relevant? I'll roll some, feel free to ignore non-relevant ones)

Kn Geo: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6
Kn History: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
Kn Local: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

Or ignore them anyway, trolol.

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none
Noisy wrote:
"The Marquis de Noisy, at your service!"

Luisila smiles and *bobs* to the dwarf. “Luisila at yours, My Lord of Noise.”

“An old Grand Lodge room-mate of mine has paid a visit to the Pillars of the Sun. However, she was very tight-lipped about what her group discovered there – which is MOST unusual for her.”

Casual Perception: 10 + 21 = 31

As Conan enters, Luisila *bobs* once more. “If you will excuse me, Noisy. I’ve just spotted an old friend.”

Luisila saunters up to the ginger ninja and envelops him in a warm hug. “AGAIN, O’Brien? People are gonna begin to talk.”

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

"New material?" Noisy responds, as Conan arrives with some presence. "You don't need new material, just a new audience!"

He introduces himself with a hearty grin.

"Ain't much to Osirion but dry heat and mummies trying to make like your daddy."

True, are there any knowledges to mine info from? History seems obvious... beyond that, dunno...

Knowledge (history): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

Grand Lodge

Clr 7/Ftr 1, HP 67/67, CMD 19, AC 23 /T12/F22, F+10 R+4 W+10, Init +7, Perc +6, SM +11

Sadly I have not visit Osirion and do not speak the language either.
Says a man in his late 30s wearing a long black robe on top of his plate armor. Around his neck dangles a silver amulet in the shape of a spiraling comet. And strapped to his back a huge silver hammer clanks when the he moves.
But with the goddess's blessing we shall succeed.

Liberty's Edge

Male Half-Elf HERO 11 | HP 101/135 | AC 30 -T16 -FF 26 CMD30 | F+13(15) R+11(+13) W+11(+13) (modifiers apply) | Per +5(+7), Init +8 | Rage: 11rds * Claws: 5rds * Perf: 8rds

Conan slides arms around Luisila in turn, lifts her off her feet (well, unless she objects), spins her in a neat circle, and sets her back down on her feet again, grinning hugely. "NEXT TIME, I WILL BRING FLOWERS FOR YOU," he promises. "I assume that roses are the appropriate offering, thorns intact?"

The big half-elf turns his bright grin on the dwarf. "BUT THAT IS THE PROBLEM," he booms. "Lady Luisila has heard all of my favorite jokes. I will need to find new ones. Osirion jokes! We will have a GRAND TIME. You have the music, I have the comedic timing. And I have my Keen Wit."

This is said while patting the hilt of his greatsword where it juts up over his shoulder.

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

“Roses are fine, Conan.” Luisila smiles once she is returned to Golarion.

“Believe it or not, an old client who supplied cut flowers to Korvosa’s Green Market named a variety of Avistani rose creeper after me.”

Luisila shakes her head at the memory, her eyes dancing.

“I was most flattered, until one of my Sting-Sisters read me Luisila’s catalogue entry:

“Not very good in a bed, but fine up against a wall.”


Rebels Map

Noisy and Conan recall or use the library in Sandswept Hall to research—more about the Jeweled Sages. They discover the first couple items.

Knowledge (history) or Knowledge (local) DC15:

15+ Several scholars in the royal library left Sothis to study with the Diamond Sage last month.
Knowledge (history) or Knowledge (local) DC20:

20+ Both the ancient pharaohs and later the Qadiran satrapy outlawed the Jeweled Sages. The current dynasty seems to enjoy warm relations with the order.
Knowledge (history) or Knowledge (local) DC25:
25+ Each Jeweled Sage carries a unique sage jewel as a badge of membership. These jewels are potent magic items that contain the history of Ancient Osirion and some of the power of the Age of Destiny.
Knowledge (history) or Knowledge (local) DC30:

30+ The Qadirans mercilessly hunted the sages and employed powerful outsiders to track them down.

You may also recall—or use the library in Sandswept Hall to research—more about the Pillars of the Sun.

Knowledge (geography) DC15:
15+ The Pillars of the Sun is a mountainous region in central Osirion. It is a treacherous labyrinth of harsh desert and rocky terrain, full of cliffs and chasms.

Knowledge (geography) DC20:
20+ The region is home to numerous monsters, ancient tombs, and lost ruins.

Knowledge (geography) DC25:
25+ Some historians believe that the tomb of the Pharaoh of No Rain, An-Hepsu XI—infamous for using numerous dark rituals to extend his own life—is hidden in among the Pillars of the Sun. [spoiler=Knowledge (geography) DC30]30+ Ancient wards and strange weather make some magic unreliable in the region, but a knowledgeable spellcaster can use these features to her advantage.


Rebels Map

Once you complete your purchases and research, Venture-Captain Norden Balentiir gathers you to depart on the caravan to the Sanctum.

May the sands be kind to you. Good luck my friends. Report back what you find. There will be guides to take you the Pillars of the Sun.

Let me know if any other purchases/research, otherwise the six of you depart with the caravan as scheduled.

You encounter no noteworthy obstacles in the journey west to Eto and then south to the Pillars of the Sun.

There, two sage acolytes eagerly wait for you:

A handsome young Garundi man in white robes greets you with a bow.
"Greetings! I am named Garai Weheliye, servant of Nethys"

Alslo there is a sweating, middle-aged Taldan woman, who mops her head but does not bow.
"Welcome! You may call me Helena Arendall. Now let us get moving before this sun bakes us all to a crisp."

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

No purchases. Would like to finalize my spell list after Tahonikepsu’s briefing, if permitted.

During the journey to the Pillars of the Sun, Luisila wears a canary yellow hijab and keeps her long cloak encircled about herself to minimise any skin exposure. To combat the stifling heat, she casts endure elements every day as soon as she awakens (even before coffee!)

She tries to stay out of the sun by riding inside a covered wagon, passing the time by meditating, reading and chatting with her companions ...

:

“We’re all experienced travellers through life, so I have a question to ask you.”

The cleric’s tone is unusually serious. “I … have a friend, who is literally the ‘baby left on the doorstep of the temple’ cliché. She knows nothing of her biological parents – races, whether they’re still alive, where they live/d, circumstances under which she was abandoned, yadda, yadda.”

“Only she has recently been gifted with the ability to commune with her goddess' Servitors, who would be able to answer her questions truthfully. Thing is – she’s been pretty-much fine up until now NOT knowing.”

Luisila searches her companions’ faces. “So if you were in her position, would you ask those questions? Would you want to know ‘where you came from?’”

♗♗♗♗

Luisila does not need to be told twice.

“By all means Ms Arendall, Magister Weheliye.” The half-elf offers the Garundi man her hand.

Will to see through illusions: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (7) + 18 = 25

Then dispensing with decorum, the priestess moves as quickly as she can towards the designated shelter.

"Luisila. Humble and obedient servant of the Savored Sting at your service." She calls over her shoulder, "You are fellow Pathfinders, I assume?"

"Are there any protocols the Diamond Sage favors that we should know about before meeting with her?"

Dark Archive

Half Orc Monk(Hungry Ghost) 7/Fighter(Weaponmaster) 4 (HP 64/75; AC:24, T:20, FF:22; Fort:+16 Ref:+13 Will:+13(+2 versus enchantments); Init+2; Perc+17 Darkvision 60) (Effects:)

No purchases here.

Bonding!:

Noble mostly ignores his party until Luisila brings up her friend. His own upbringing made it hard to ignore the conversation. "I was found by the side of the road as a babe and raised in Egorian. No idea about my biological parents or what happened to them. I'm doing fine without them. I didn't need them then and I don't need them now. Your friend might be the same way."

"I am Noble."


Rebels Map

Garai Weheliye responds to Luisila's question.

“The Sanctum of the Sages is an extensive underground complex set into the side of a mountain. To maintain the privacy, she asks that you keep no record of our path. The Diamond Sage can provide you any protocols once you meet with her. The sages are a group of scholars who preserve Osirian history. They do not need disturbances to their work.”

Other than the above, they defer most other inquiries to Tahonikepsu.

kn:Arcana, kn:Geography, survival DC20:

The Diamond Sage personally maintains a twisting path between the many peaks of the Pillars of the Sun, chasing away monsters that would otherwise hunt along the route. You notice glyphs marking this well hidden trail.

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none
Savage wrote:
"I am Noble."

With her palms clasped before her, Luisila bows deeply at the waist to the monk. “Without a doubt, Brother.”

Survival + guidance: 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 4 + 1 = 8

Garai Weheliye wrote:
“She asks that you keep no record of our path.”

“By the Holy Triune of Desire, Guile and Vengeance, I swear none shall be manufactured, Magister.”

Not having cast endure elements this morning, the half-elf fans herself briskly with her right hand. “Now what does a girl have to do to get a cool drink around here?”

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

No purchases here either
Spoilered to avoid the 'wall-of-text' syndrome

On The Trip from Sothis to the Pillars!:

Knowledge (geography): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14 He knows nothing of The Pillars of the Sun!

Noisy spends most of the trip from Sothis to Eto, and then to the Pillars, chatting cheerfully with anyone that cares to listen. Fellow Pathfinders and caravan workers alike. More then willing to break into tales of past exploits and adventure, and, one might suspect, also more then willing to embellish generously whenever necessary.

When not talking, he spends his time cleaning his musket, grumbling good-naturedly about how the sand tends to 'jam her up' if he doesn't stay on top of it.

"Last time I was out this way, we were out here somewhere too." He squints across the featureless horizon, before indicating towards the west.

"Off that way somewhere... I think." He scowls slightly, clearly unsure, before laughing with as shrug. "Who the hell knows out here. No wonder all the important muckity-mucks get themselves interred in these parts. Nearly impossible to make a map to anywhere."

"Shoulda seen the scorpions though... bigger'n a horse!" He adds, reminiscing. He shakes his head slightly at the memory.

Interestingly enough, the 'Where on Golorion' map for that scenario and this map, put the little X in almost the same spot =)


------
Luisila chit-chat:

Luisila wrote:
“So if you were in her position, would you ask those questions? Would you want to know ‘where you came from?’”

"That might not be the right question." Noisy responds, when brought into the conversation.

He shrugs slightly at the looks, before adding. "Though I suppose it changes the flavor of this one... to answer the other."

"It has been my experience, when considering a piece of information, that the first thing to ponder is the source of that information."

------

Once they reach the pillars he seems eager to take Helena advice of getting out of the sun.

"Indeed!" He exclaims. "The mines of Kravenkus don't climatize one well to this country."

"Tell someone how to find this place? You mean take a left at the sand dune, then travel half day towards the smaller sand dune, next to the larger one...." He laughs at the ludicrousness of it all.

"No worry on this quarter." He adds with a smile.

Knowledge (arcana/geog): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22 Though he did pick up a few clues apparently! He keeps those to himself

Liberty's Edge

Male Half-Elf HERO 11 | HP 101/135 | AC 30 -T16 -FF 26 CMD30 | F+13(15) R+11(+13) W+11(+13) (modifiers apply) | Per +5(+7), Init +8 | Rage: 11rds * Claws: 5rds * Perf: 8rds

En route!:
Conan is just as much a conversationalist as Noisy, and the two probably spend a great deal of time talking to each other and trading boasts and poetic exaggerations of various sorts. Conan keeps to his word and agonizes entertains the other Pathfinders, on the journey, with various puns and dumb riddles. ("Why won't dwarves loan you money? BECAUSE THEY'RE ALWAYS A LITTLE SHORT! Eh, Noisy? Eh? Haha!")

He does sober up at Luisila's question, looking earnest. "I feel that people usually do want to know their ORIGINS. However, they often mistake their BEGINNINGS as a clue to their FUTURES, or think it binding to who they are NOW. Your life is what you make of it! But that is a lesson each person must learn in their own WAY, and at their own TIME. If they wonder about where they are from, that can delay that lesson. Sometimes, that question should be answered... so that it is no longer a shut door, tantalizing by merit of being unknown."

Kn Arcana: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22

Conan shades his eyes with his hand as he looks out over the baking desert at the path ahead.

"This is all VERY EXCITING. I am eager to meet the Diamond Sage and ask her how she has managed for herself in this scorching desert."

Endure elements or no endure elements, Conan is a half-Ulfen natural redhead, which means one thing by this point: sunburn. He rubs at the skin peeling on his nose. "Well, I am ready!"


Rebels Map

Once you arrive, you find the Sanctum of the Sages is an extensive underground complex set into the side of a mountain.

At a distance, illusions disguise the structure’s features. Within about a hundred feet, however, the illusion fades, revealing a beautifully engraved facade and door carved directly into the mountain face.

A dozen acolytes live outside the sanctum in a small tent community, where they meditate and debate the finer points of Nethys’s holy text, the Book of Magic.

Ornate rugs and a small pile of sitting pillows create a small soft space in the marble room, where a finely dressed Garundi woman sits by a fountain. See resource page

She looks up from a puzzle of broken pottery fragments as the two escorts announce the Pathfinders. After thanking and dismissing Garai and Helena, she beckons her visitors forward.

“Welcome, Pathfinders. You and your venture-captain have my thanks for agreeing to aid us.
I am Tahonikepsu, the Diamond Sage.”

If any you have met the Diamond Sage before, Tahonikepsu greets you by name.

Grand Lodge

AC 22 T 15 FF 18 | HP 80+11/80 | F +15 R +20 W +12 (+1 vs. psn, disease; Immune evil mind control) | Init +11 | Perc +25 (30 vs. traps) (Dark 60) | SM +8 | Bomb 5/19 | Wing 8/11 | Boot 5/10 | HeightAware, InvMind (6), Heroism, DexMut

San Xiao does not engage in idle chit-chat or philosophical musings with his teammates, preferring to stay in his rickshaw as his servant pulls him across the rough terrain, giving him a swat with the tome he's reading when the ride gets too bumpy.

San Xiao will hand out an extract of Shield to Savage and Fredrick.

False Life: 1d10 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11

Grand Lodge

Clr 7/Ftr 1, HP 67/67, CMD 19, AC 23 /T12/F22, F+10 R+4 W+10, Init +7, Perc +6, SM +11

Fredrik keeps mostly to himself during the trip enjoying the scenary and maintaining his routine of prayers. He is always polite when adressing other party members and the society's staff.

K.Arcane: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (5) + 4 = 9
Survival: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (14) + 11 = 25

When meeting Tahonikepsu he greets her with a bow.
An honor to meet you madam.

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

"Well met!" Noisy responds, when they finally meet Tahonikepsu.

I'm assuming we've passed her the sealed note we were instructed to give?

"I am Noisy!" He adds, leaving off the title this time. "We are most eager to see this area of your sanctum that you've asked for our assistance in exploring."

"And to get out of the sun." He adds, a moment later, as he enjoys the shade.

Dark Archive

Half Orc Monk(Hungry Ghost) 7/Fighter(Weaponmaster) 4 (HP 64/75; AC:24, T:20, FF:22; Fort:+16 Ref:+13 Will:+13(+2 versus enchantments); Init+2; Perc+17 Darkvision 60) (Effects:)

"Hail Diamond Sage." Noble accepts the extract with a nod to San Xiao.

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

“We have not met, Sharifa. This one is known as Luisila.”

The priestess introduces herself respectfully, addressing the Diamond Sage with the Osiriani word for ‘noble’ or ‘highborn’.

With a nod to Conan, she continues: “Though I may have mentioned you were the Society’s most valued friend and ally in Garund, to the Ruby Prince’s Grand Ambassador to Absalom, at a reception hosted by Michelia Blakros.”

Once the necessary courtesies have been exchanged, Luisila hints at the reason for this desert summit. “In the name of the Ten, Norden Balentiir sends you greetings and respects from Sandswept Hall. The Venture-Captain mentioned there may be something we could assist you with?”


Rebels Map

Assuming Savage will hand her the still sealed letter...

“The venture-captain has great faith in you. I shall extend you the same courtesy.”

She gestures for everyone to sit before continuing.

“My sage jewel grants me some knowledge of this complex,
and my own research has confirmed many of those memories.
That said, the site’s long abandonment has made exploration difficult.
I believe the next most productive step would be to reopen the archive,
whose interior has defied out attempts at divinations.
On the lowest floor of the library reside the written history of our order
and a crystalline artifact attuned to the sage jewels.
I would like you to explore the area, inventory the contents,
and report your findings to me. Please be careful;
these halls contain delicate, irreplaceable cultural treasures and writings.”

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none
Tahonikepsu wrote:
“The venture-captain has great faith in you. I shall extend you the same courtesy.”

Gee, thanks! Considering we’re risking our necks, so you don’t have to risk yours.

Luisila permits none of her inner thoughts to seep into her professional demeanor. “So we are to leave all artefacts in situ for you to inspect later?”

“Because of its age, would I be correct in thinking the ancient Jewelled Sage’s guardians would by now be undead, bound outsiders or constructs? Is there a pass you could provide identifying us as agents of your Order in order to bypass any traps and sentinels?”


Rebels Map

The woman regards Luisila's question.

“Yes, please ensure the artifacts are not disturbed.
I am not sure the extent of the collection.
The sage who bore the amethyst jewel
was responsible for the archive, along with several assistants."

She pauses as she considers her next words carefully.

"As for a token, the fact that you are in the complex should be sufficient authorization.
Especially since the portal requires a sage jewel to activate.
Likewise it should activate when I unseal the complex. If not, await my return.
In the meanwhile, I have numerous other responsibilities,
but I hope that our partnership can alleviate some of them, allowing me to return.”

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

Noisy chuckles. "I've yet to see a guardian that counted just being present as sufficient criteria to leave me undisturbed."

"Or protective father, for that matter." He adds, with a laugh.

"Usually quite the opposite! He grins ruefully, as if remembering some long past incident.

Try to get a sense of if she's on the up-and-up! Sense Motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15

"We on any sort of time table here?" He asks. "Can we come and go freely?"

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none
The very busy Diamond Sage wrote:
"As for a token, the fact that you are in the complex should be sufficient authorization.”

Luisila has a view similar to the bard's. Yeah, right! Trust me, Mister Inevitable. I’m a Pathfinder!

The half-elf waits patiently for the Diamond Sage's responses to her companions’ queries, before saying:

“By all means let us not keep you from your other responsibilities, Sharifa. After I have prepared some spells I shall be ready to begin.”

Grand Lodge

Clr 7/Ftr 1, HP 67/67, CMD 19, AC 23 /T12/F22, F+10 R+4 W+10, Init +7, Perc +6, SM +11

How about the amethyst sage? Can he be of any help? Do you know of his whereabouts milady?

Dark Archive

Half Orc Monk(Hungry Ghost) 7/Fighter(Weaponmaster) 4 (HP 64/75; AC:24, T:20, FF:22; Fort:+16 Ref:+13 Will:+13(+2 versus enchantments); Init+2; Perc+17 Darkvision 60) (Effects:)

"I am ready to go."

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

Noisy too, is ready to proceed. Spending a moment to make sure both muskets are clear and loaded and ready to use.

"Anyone notice if she was missing a shoe?" He asks, as Tahonikepsu heads off to her 'other responsibilities'.

Liberty's Edge

Male Half-Elf HERO 11 | HP 101/135 | AC 30 -T16 -FF 26 CMD30 | F+13(15) R+11(+13) W+11(+13) (modifiers apply) | Per +5(+7), Init +8 | Rage: 11rds * Claws: 5rds * Perf: 8rds

Conan nods earnestly with ... basically everything Luisila says to the sage, beaming widely.

"We will be EXTRAORDINARILY careful, madam. My WORD on it."

Tahonikepsu seems very serious, so Conan takes it on himself to make her smile. "Do you know why Osiriani mummies can't relax, Madam Sage?"

He waits for a guess, then grins toothily: "Because they are all wound up. HA."

***

Conan unslings his big greatsword from his back and takes a few practice swings in mid-air. "I am EAGER TO SEE WHAT LURKS BELOW. Before we begin..."

He draws forth a rod made of copper, engraved with a pattern of scales, and begins to cast a spell, his eyes flaring with copper-hued light as he does so. He murmurs in a low, rumbly tongue as he casts.

Draconic:
"Ancestors, guide me to be worthy of your noble lineage!"

Conan's visage appears just that much more heroic when he is done. He grins, very white. "FREDRIK. WOULD YOU CARE FOR SOME OF THE POWER OF MIGHTY DRAGONS AS WELL? I ENJOY SHARING."

Casting Heroism (so his saves etc now use the paranthetical values listed on statline), and feather step, on himself, with the lesser extend rod, for 100 minute duration; if Fredrik wants a dose of Heroism, I am happy to put it on him as well, since he's playing up.

"--oh, thank you for this vial, San Xiao Ji Jia Ben. I assume I am meant to drink it should there be combat?"

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

Luisila shoulders her pack and jumps up and down a few times to make sure nothing rattles or jangles. She ensures the silver triple-dagger emblem around her neck is prominently displayed, before a flick of her wrist starts an ioun torch spinning around her head.

Bow in hand, she makes a couple of practice draws from her efficient quiver, when the copper pinch drops.

“Noisy, you don’t happen to have six brothers do you? One named Silly and another Grouchy?”

Noisy wrote:
"Anyone notice if she was missing a shoe?"

Luisila looks at the dwarf suspiciously, before replying with an innocent tone. “Like a glass slipper, Marquis de Charme? I think you’re in the wrong tall tale.”

Grand Lodge

AC 22 T 15 FF 18 | HP 80+11/80 | F +15 R +20 W +12 (+1 vs. psn, disease; Immune evil mind control) | Init +11 | Perc +25 (30 vs. traps) (Dark 60) | SM +8 | Bomb 5/19 | Wing 8/11 | Boot 5/10 | HeightAware, InvMind (6), Heroism, DexMut
Conan O'Brien wrote:
"--oh, thank you for this vial, San Xiao Ji Jia Ben. I assume I am meant to drink it should there be combat?"

"That is BROTHER San Xiao to you. And you can always apply it as a suppository if you prefer."

Turning to the Diamond Sage, San Xiao remarks, "Very well. I will guide these Pathfinder safely through your archive."


Rebels Map

The woman raises an eyebrow at Conan's riddle, but otherwise she seems to be doubting the Society's choice of agents for this delicate mission.

"People and empires may pass away; we ensure their memories and discoveries live on. The Jeweled Sages nearly disappeared during the Qadiran satrapy. Now we are rebuilding the order and continuing their work. Please do be especially careful of the artifacts inside.”

She gives one last look at each of you, as if searching for any reason to doubt your intentions or capabilities.

"If you are ready, follow me."

After ensuring you are all ready, Tahonikepsu leads the Pathfinders to the adjoining hall where a 5-foot-diameter crystal—the Screening Stone—hovers a short distance off the floor.

The stone hums in response to her chant in Ancient Osiriani; the glyphs on the west door fade and the stone cracks open and melts into the surrounding walls.

Beyond, a hallway illuminated with magical light extends 30 feet and then descends down a twisting flight of stairs.

The Diamond Sage says quietly, "We thank you Pathfinders again for your service, You are welcome to rest with the acolytes outside whenever you need."

She then departs, leaving you to descend the stairs before you.

Grand Lodge

AC 22 T 15 FF 18 | HP 80+11/80 | F +15 R +20 W +12 (+1 vs. psn, disease; Immune evil mind control) | Init +11 | Perc +25 (30 vs. traps) (Dark 60) | SM +8 | Bomb 5/19 | Wing 8/11 | Boot 5/10 | HeightAware, InvMind (6), Heroism, DexMut

Buff time! San Xiao drinks extracts of Heroism, Investigative Mind, Barkskin, Heightened Awareness, and See Invisibility, as well as his Dexterity mutagen (stats are updated to reflect these). He uses a Boro Bead to reprepare Barkskin and hand it to Savage, and gives an extract of Freedom of Movement to Fredrik.

San Xiao positions himself in front, and begins studying the passageway for dangers as they go.

Any objection if I make an SOP of taking 10 on Perception as we go? That will give me a 40 to detect traps.

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1
Luisila wrote:

“Noisy, you don’t happen to have six brothers do you? One named Silly and another Grouchy?”

Noisy noticeably bristles at her question. "Grouchy is no relative of mine!" He says indignantly.

"Have you been to Kravenkus?" He asks once he calms down a bit. "Am an only child myself. Though a few cousins and uncles." He ponders for a moment. "Silly? Is he he that tanner that works in the keep?"

Heh! Haven't worked out the full family tree yet. =) Though so far, in PFS, there's a Smarmy, Sleazy, Sickly, Doubtful, Dumpy, Touchy, and Clumsy

Luisila wrote:
Noisy wrote:
"Anyone notice if she was missing a shoe?"
Luisila looks at the dwarf suspiciously, before replying with an innocent tone. “Like a glass slipper, Marquis de Charme? I think you’re in the wrong tall tale.”

"Am just waiting for it to drop, is all." He explains.

Noisy will cast False Life (temp hp: 1d10 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14) and Heroism on himself
He will also play a single round of Triple Time, to give everyone a +10' enhancement bonus to their movement rates for an hour


Rebels Map

fyi - my dwarf Grimdoc is from Kravenkus.

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

All the cool dwarves are!

(Though I suppose, Noisy's from 'just outside' of Kravenkus... so cool adjacent?)

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

40 Perception is welcome, San Xiao!

Noisy wrote:
"Have you been to Kravenkus?"

“Not yet. My research into Sky Citadels has only taken me to Janderhoff thus far. The ‘Silly’ I met was a diamond miner.”

Luisila sighs. “You should see the looks I get when I mention an interest in Dwarven culture – ‘But, but … you’re a half-elf!’”

“I get so fed up with those stereotypes – like the LOUD, dwarf drunk.”

The priestess tosses her auburn mane. “And I remind them, not all elves are flighty drama queens.”

Noisy wrote:
"Am just waiting for it to drop, is all."

Luisila tilts her head to the side. “Yeah, I don’t think this is going to be a simple dungeon crawl either, Noisy.”

“Though I don’t believe it’s in our hostess’ interests to hold anything back from us. So I’m prepared to give her the benefit of the doubt.”

The priestess tugs at the wrists of her fingerless gloves, ensuring a skin-tight fit.

She flexes her fingers experimentally. “Everyone right to go?”

Dark Archive

Half Orc Monk(Hungry Ghost) 7/Fighter(Weaponmaster) 4 (HP 64/75; AC:24, T:20, FF:22; Fort:+16 Ref:+13 Will:+13(+2 versus enchantments); Init+2; Perc+17 Darkvision 60) (Effects:)

"Or the savage orc. It is never simple when it comes to the society. Let us get this over with already."

Sovereign Court

NG Dwarf Bard 11 / Gunslinger 1

Spoilered to not distract from the mission in progress!

Chatting with Luisila:

"Ya, not many folks go to Kravenkus nowadays." He agrees, a hint of sadness in his voice. "Damned Darklands is bad for the touristing business, for sure."

"Though good to see outsiders taking an interest!"

"Janderhoff's mostly pulling metals and ores from the mountains there." He adds. "Your friend probably wasn't seeing too much work."

He chuckles.

Clearly why his name was Silly! (conveniently ignoring the 'quotes' around the name)

And Luisila's been to at least one other Sky Citadel! At least based on her scenario history... though admittedly she might not have known it was one at the time. Koldukar!

"Don't need drink to be loud!" He agrees, to her stereotype comment, feigning being defensive.

"My father claims my lungs are too powerful for my frame." He adds with a sly wink. "Probably a good thing I can't sing a note to save my life."

"Though nothing wrong with stereotypes! Therein lay the fodder for many a fine tale!"

"Hells," He adds, indicating Conan. "I reckon half of our ginger friend over there's material relies on it!"

He eyes her speculatively for a moment. "Though I do detect a hint of a mix in that bloodline of yours... so perhaps only half of a flighty drama queen?"

"Perhaps merely a whimsical drama princess?"

He laughs heartily, continuing to try out various toned down synonyms to describe elves.

Grand Lodge

Female CG Half-elf Cleric 15 | HP 168/168 | AC 24, T 15, F 19 | CMB +13, CMD 28 (29 grapple) | F +21, R +16, W +23 (+2 vs enchantments) | Init +10 | Perc +28, SM +7 | Speed 20' | 5/5 Channels | 9/9 BoL | 2/2 GF | Active conditions: none

While deception is second-nature to Luisila as both a Pathfinder agent and cleric of a Trickster deity, modesty was her sole motive in withholding her part in the re-discovery of the lost Sky Citadel of Koldukar.

That and to avoid any continuity issues if Noisy had played those scenarios as well! ;)

She can talk underwater:

Noisy wrote:
"Janderhoff's mostly pulling metals and ores from the mountains there. Your friend probably wasn't seeing too much work."

Luisila smiles. “Calistrian clerics get told all manner of things, to satisfy a broad range of desires. Helping bring a fantasy to life is all in a day’s work.”

“Silly may not have delved for icy bling like his celebrity namesake, but his use of unlikely terms such as stoping, grade (of both ramps and ore!) and crosscuts (not to be confused with drives) quite convinced me of his trade.”

“So bewitching were his words, he sent me straight to the land of Nod like a stage hypnotist!”

Noisy wrote:
"Though nothing wrong with stereotypes! I reckon half of our ginger friend over there's material relies on it!"

Luisila raises an eyebrow. “But do they make Golarion a better place, My Lord?”

She gives Conan’s arm a passing squeeze as she moves into position.


Rebels Map

After a 50-foot descent, the Pathfinders arrive at the Halls of Study, where the sages examined new acquisitions. Previously, a dozen scholars worked alongside the sages to preserve the physical records of their nation’s history.

Fragrant scents float on the warm breeze that circulates around this columned chamber. Jasmine, grapevines, mandrakes, and anemones grow from pots hanging around the room, vibrant and fruitful despite the lack of sunlight. Sycamore saplings fill the alcoves, and a phosphorescent moss has overgrown some of the walls and ceiling. A great seal bearing a written inscription covers the center of the floor.

San Xiao sees the inscription on the floor is in Ancient Osiriani and it reads, “Life is fleeting; memory is eternal.”

As you enter the room (see MAP LINK above) and observe the above, please each of you give me a PERCEPTION and WILL SAVE...for no reason. :P

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