GM Bauers PFS 5-08 The Confirmation (Inactive)

Game Master mbauers

The invitation delivered last night was remarkably simple, especially given the importance of the occasion: Start where it all began. Meet us at the Pig’s Paunch one hour before dawn.

The Pig’s Paunch is a run-down building with a faded sign of a large pig standing on its hind legs, arms folded above a corpulent belly. Inside, the air is thick with the scents of human sweat, stale tobacco, and leftover food. In the center of the room, surrounded by inebriates sleeping off their revelries, a familiar elven man stands high upon top of a large round table.

Welcome! Welcome, my students! Please, have a seat! With that, Kreighton Shaine, the Pathfinder Society’s Master of Scrolls, nimbly drops down to sit cross-legged on the table before looking about the tavern with a sense of reverent wonder. Can you believe it? It all started here years ago—well, over four hundred of them at least. Under this very roof the Pathfinder Society was born.

But today! Today you will begin your Confirmation! Master Farabellus, Master Zey, and I all agree you each have shown your worth and dedication to the Society, so there’s no better time to see if you can handle becoming full field operatives. Allow me to introduce you to Janira Gavix, he says as he motions for an excitable halfling woman to approach. She wears a large backpack and carries all manner of tools, pouches, and scroll cases around her waist.

Shaine continues, saying, Janira here will be going with you on your Confirmation. She was one of my brightest pupils and will no doubt be an invaluable resource on your journey, for she discovered the caves you are about to explore during her own Confirmation.

Janira speaks up in an enthusiastic and cheerful voice, Greetings, aspiring Pathfinders! Six months ago, while I was mapping cave entrances in the foothills of the Kortos Mounts, I witnessed a lone gillman entering a concealed cave. I thought little of it at the time, but I saw another one enter the cave again a month later as my Confirmation stretched on. A few days later, after I completed my assigned task, I entered the cave system, but was unable to find the gillmen.

Master Shaine hops to his feet. Initiates, for your Confirmation, you will travel to these caves to explore and document its many passages. Additionally, and most importantly, you are to learn what the gillmen are up to in there. Oh, and you need to come back alive as well. With these parting words, the Master of Scrolls jumps off the table and strolls out of the building while humming to himself.

Dot

"He sure seems confident. Made his speech, now he's out the door. Probably to find some fine maidens or somethin'." A Gnome adjusts her hat and chomps on some meat. "Still, happy they haven't kicked me out yet. Maybe I can pass their test, too." The gnome grins, but not too wide. Usually gets creepy when she grins too much.

"Anyway, who are you guys? My name's Acel."

The half-orc keeps his awkward silence a few seconds longer, hoping someone else answers first. When no one does, he mumbles, "Tsadok, one of Gorum's high inquisitors. Our Lord in Iron's divine wrath will aid us in what is to come." He realizes he hasn't stuttered once in his speech and feels heartened, but tries not to show it. It's pretty obvious though.

Late to the gathering, a hooded figure in a black cloak steps out of the shadows. You can tell that he is humanoid, but bears the talons of a bird of prey instead of feet, and has several exotic blades on belts.

With a deep eastern bow, he addresses the group with a cackle.

"Caw...Waki...Waki Huro am I. Great honor it is to serve with you hairy, I mean humanoids. On a tiger hunt recently have been I. First mission with Society it was."

"Hmm? Am I that hairy?" Acel sniffs her armpits. "Maybe a little smelly."

Why taverns? Silas enters the Pig's Paunch, unable to conceal a look of disgust on his face, just as their briefing begins. Tall even by the standards of his large race, the seven-foot serpent warrior towers over the other inhabitants. He wears armor made of overlapping metal scales, reflecting his own tough hide, and carries a large steel shield on his back. A longsword hangs at his belt, and an iron holy symbol bearing the sword-and-sunburst of Iomedae clangs softly against his chest. Silas hates taverns-- dens of filth and debauchery, where men sacrifice their better discretion to the false gods of the drink and women give their virtue to these sinful priests. Nevertheless, duty-bound, he sits down with the others to hear about today's mission.

"Silas Proth," he offers Acel when the briefing is done, his tongue adding slight emphasis to every 's'. "I'm a servant of the great Iomedae."

"He sure seems confident. Made his speech, now he's out the door. Probably to find some fine maidens or somethin'."

Janira smiles at Acel’s observations: Or settle down in front of an old tome, more like. Master Shaine is brilliant--He has lived a very long time and seen things we could only dream about. I’ve learned to just accept his peculiarities and value any knowledge he wishes to share.

She watches the others with genuine interest as you introduce yourselves then pulls out a large leather-bound journal and opens it on the table. Before we set out, we should all get to know each other a bit more and review our plan. After all, the most important factors that determine whether an expedition will be a success are cooperation and preparation! I’ll go first!

I am Janira Gavix, pleased to meet your acquaintance! I’m from right here in Eastgate, born and raised. Four years ago I joined the Society, mostly to travel and taste all the wonderful food the world has to offer, she pats her stomach and smiles wistfully before continuing. But I’ve come a long way in four years and learned that our mission is far more important. There is much to be discovered in the world and I hope to one day contribute a small piece of the vast body of knowledge that the Pathfinder Chronicles describe. So, what brought all of you here?

The diminutive woman leans forward in her chair to observe your reactions, smiling encouragingly.

Here is some background knowledge you may already know...

"Well. It was fun working at the theater. Moving lights, making noise, helping people out." She adjusts her hat. "But then this lady tried to show me bigger and better things. Turns out she uh...was very deceitful. Okay, turns out she was a hag. The kind that lives in swamps and corrupts people's lives." Acel giggles at herself. "Guess she enjoyed toying with my mind more than tearing my body apart. Lucky me!"

"While I am glad a group of Pathfinders cut her in half, she did teach me some useful tricks before then. I figure that with that mixed experience, maybe I should become a Pathfinder myself. Maybe I'll be the one saving someone from something unpleasant."

Acel leans back in her chair and taps on the guard of her rapier.

Untrained Knowledge(Geography): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11
Untrained Knowledge(History): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18

Acel, just so you know--you can only make untrained Knowledge checks for DC 10 or lower (unless you have a class feature like Bards do, for example).

"I may know some things about the area..."
Knowledge (geography) untrained: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

Yeah, I realized it after I read the rolls. Luckily I didn't read the spoilers yet.

"My oath brought me here... I will strive to emulate Iomedae's perfection, those are the last words of the Paladin's Code. Iomedae wasn't just a fighter, she was a leader-- she ruled Kantaria in her Tenth Act. The greatest ruler the city ever knew. She led by example, and that's what her servants are called to do too. The fact that so many people in the Society don't accept Iomedae as their rightful Lady--" he glances at Tsadok-- "is why I'm here to spread her good works."

"A certain god or goddess shouldn't have to be for everyone. Gorum knows I've seen enough crusades to have gotten that. It should be enough for people to do good in the world and help out. Me, though..." Tsadok pauses to glance back at Silas, trying his best not to look threatening or angry, "I try to do good, but I can't do it without a reward. It's just not in my nature and I can't rightly help it. I'm working on that, and yet, my faith is a cornerstone of my identity and I won't tear it down. I'm just trying to be a helper, and here is where I start. I hope you can accept that.

"But that's not something I want to talk about right now. What will we need for this exploration?"
If we have 15 minutes, I'd like to sharpen my greatsword with my whetstone.

Waki Huro pauses in thought.

kn:geo: 1d20 ⇒ 11

"Of these things, little know I but the Kortos Mounts in Isle of Kortos stand. Regardless, follow on this expedition I will."

Eleanor pops in and introduces herself. "Sorry i am late! I just went to the wrong bar I suppose. I am Eleanor, and I make shining lights for everyone to enjoy. That is about all. Did I forget anything?"

"I don't really know anything about geography or history. I am more a live in the moment type. I am ready to go though!"

"But see--" He stops when Tsadok cuts him off to press for mission information. "The wise leader knows when to speak, and when to remain silent." With that, she bid the cultist continue. The words from Acts chapter ten float into his mind. He knows the story well-- there were some who questioned Iomedae's leadership when she, as the steward of Kantaria, found in favor of an Asmodean cultist; but her good judgement (of course) won out in the end, when the cultist saw how fair she was and eventually abandoned his evil god. I will strive to emulate Iomedae's perfection. He holds his tongue and waits for further details.

Tsadok, you will have more than 15 minutes of preparation time before we depart so that should be fine.

With all of the skills you have at your disposal, and with the blessing of such powerful gods, we shall surely succeed. No doubt, our diversity of abilities and beliefs will benefit us. Honor, selflessness, unshakeable courage--all qualities the Society and I value highly, Janira says while looking up into the eyes of the towering Nagaji. Then she turns her gaze to Tsadok: But our missions are often dangerous, and strength of arms are, unfortunately, a necessity. And of course, Desna be praised, we could always use a little luck.

Now, then, on to the details of the mission at hand Janira says with an eager grin. After reviewing my mission reports personally, Master Shaine believes it is no coincidence that each time they entered the caves it was during a full moon, so it is also no coincidence that you have been called here now, just a day before the moon is full again. We both believe that tomorrow night is our best chance to find out why these caves are important and what exactly the gillmen are doing in there.

The caves we’ll be travelling to lie under the base of the Kortos Mounts. We’ll need to spend every minute of daylight possible to reach the caves by foot, crossing over the Cairnlands, taking the paths to Diobel, and finally making our way through the wilderness. With any luck we won’t run into any of the local inhabitants. Once in the caves, we’ll need to work together to explore and determine whether any gillman are present or have been recently. Keep an eye out for any other clues that might hint at the caves’ significance, too. And of course, adhere to the three duties of a Pathfinder--Explore, Report, Cooperate. Any questions?

"Sounds like fun." Acel notes. "Hope we don't have to swim much."

Wow, no one is arguing over whether I should join them or not. Acel ponders while Tsodak and Silas compare religions. Reminds me of my time with What's-Her-Face; she didn't mind any prank I pulled.

"Is there a problem with the locals we should know about? Are they unfriendly?" Tsadok asks, still sharpening his massive sword with a slight screeching noise. "The same goes for these gillmen, wouldn't we be intruding on their domain?"

Waki remains mostly quiet and in the background, letting the more fluent speak as he listens to the mission objectives and makes mental notes.

"Is there a problem with the locals we should know about? Are they unfriendly?" Tsadok asks, still sharpening his massive sword with a slight screeching noise. "The same goes for these gillmen, wouldn't we be intruding on their domain?"

Great question! The area we’re heading to is controlled by a large centaur tribe. They aren’t hostile, and I’d like to keep it that way. That’s why I want to go on foot. If we cross paths with any of them, they’ll see the horses as an affront and might become dangerously unfriendly. As for the gillmen--the only known permanent surface settlement of the gillmen is in Escadar. Why they’re venturing into the foothills of the Kortos Mounts is a mystery. It’s intriguing, and the reason for our mission!

I'll give a few more hours tonight for any questions, then advance the story.

That was a good question, he chides himself. You should've thought of that. How are you ever going to lead if you don't think of these things? "So..." He tries to think of what other information they might need. "Are there any cities or towns near there? And do they ever report any violence, or anything missing on those nights?"

That was a good question, he chides himself. You should've thought of that. How are you ever going to lead if you don't think of these things? "So..." He tries to think of what other information they might need. "Are there any cities or towns near there? And do they ever report any violence, or anything missing on those nights?"

No, Silas, no settlements by where we’re going. And we haven’t heard anything from the local tribes--the two occasions I witnessed were both one lone gillman by himself entering the caves. Neither one appeared to be heavily armed.

Janira closes the book loudly and stands up from the table: Now, before we head out, if there aren’t any more questions, we should take a moment to go through your gear and make sure nothing important gets left out. We will travel by day and night, so you’ll need a light source. And the woods have all manner of nasty critters--something to deal with vermin and insect swarms would be a good idea. Rope is always useful, some food and water, and of course, a sharp blade and a good pair of boots. We have time to make purchases if anyone is in need.

She then reaches into her backpack and produces several sheets of parchment, handing them out to each of you in turn..

Remember how important it is to report our findings. You should take notes of your explorations as best as you can..

There is a player handout “Pathfinder’s Journal” that is essentially a blank sheet of paper. Since this is a PbP, I will instead encourage you to keep your notes in a spoiler on your character’s profile. Everyone ok with that? You now have time to purchase any last-minute gear you need, and in the morning I will post the next scene.

Waki checks his pack and accepts the parchment and makes a few quick notes.

He poses a quick question regarding scope of the mission.

Janira, if actions gilmen take, nefarious they be, interpose ourselves should we?
As to gear, rope have I, but boots I wear not. Purchase additional sunrod, I will."

Tsadok rifles through his ever-present backpack, muttering as he does so, "Rope, food, acid, weapons...I didn't bring light, but Waki here did and I can see in the dark. Water won't be a problem. I'm ready whenever everyone else is." He feeds the parchment into a scroll case and sheaths his sword, already done and all the more restless for it.

"I can't see in pitch black, but I've got some torches. Ready when you all are, boss." Acel burps.

A young half-elven lass with red hair and green eyes watches everything unfold. Eventually, she summons the courage to speak.

"Hello, all. My name is Inira, and I have only recently come to this area. My father, a missionary in the Tien provinces, dragged me and me brother along with him. So I am more accustomed to their culture than our own - so forgive me if I make some mistakes. I hate to see people in pain, so I strived to learn the arts of healing. Perhaps I can be of some use on this mission?"

"Also, I did learn me to shoot this" showing her finely crafted long bow.

"It is a pleasure to meet you all," she says with a small bow of her head.

Sorry I'm late - end of spring break and all! GM- Inira earned 2 PP on my first mission, so she will use them to get a Wand, Cure Light Wounds (even though she cannot operate it). She will also buy some map cases, something to waterproof her journal, and writing implements.

Cool. Tsadok and I can both use CLW wands, so that'll be fine. I have both hands full in combat, so Tsadok might be a better fit-- although I won't speak for how likely he is to heal you at all lol.

"Er... thanks." He takes the parchment from Janira and says nothing. His reading skills are marginal at best, and his writing skills even worse, so it's unlikely that by the end of the mission this parchment will contain anything beyond a crude map-- he certainly didn't need to write anything down in his first two Society missions, and he got through just fine. "With her torches, I think we'll be fine." He nods toward Acel.

I also use both hands in combat, but I do have out of combat healing for myself against intelligent creatures (so Silas wouldn't count, haha joking, it's Int 3+)

"I guess we're all ready then. Unless any more late arrivals are coming?"

Waki checks his pack and accepts the parchment and makes a few quick notes.

He poses a quick question regarding scope of the mission.

Janira, if actions gilmen take, nefarious they be, interpose ourselves should we?
As to gear, rope have I, but boots I wear not. Purchase additional sunrod, I will."

Yes, well, it would seem boots are less-necessary for some of us. Our mission is to explore and report, but we are sometimes required to defend ourselves.

Well met, Inira! Of course you can be of use to us! You were chosen for this Confirmation on the merits of your abilities!

Satisfied with your introductions and preparations, Janira leads you all west out of Absalom and through the Cairnlands, picking up any last-minute purchases on the way out of the city.

The party travels through Absalom and across the Cairnlands, along a well-worn path that leads toward Diobel, and through the wilderness surrounding the Kortos Mounts. The journey through the City at the Center of the World is swift and without incident, and the long trek across the Cairnlands provides a great opportunity to discuss Master Shane’s class on the history of Absalom. Most of the journey is uneventful, with Janira pointing out landmarks such as siege towers, distant mountains, or distinct flora and fauna along the journey. After setting a rotating watch and camping in the wilderness through a night filled with familiar outdoor sounds (but no other incidents), you continue your travels on the second day.

As the party progresses deeper into the forest, the trees towering overhead begin to shield most of what remains of the day’s sun and the vegetation beneath grows denser.

Janira pauses a moment and pulls out an intricate silver compass emblazoned with the Pathfinder Society logo: the Glyph of the Open Road. I received this wayfinder when I successfully completed my Confirmation. Should we be successful on our journey, you will get your own as well.
She flips open the device and holds it in front of her; the initials J. L. are engraved into the inside of the device’s lid. After studying the compass inside for a moment, she remarks, We’re on the right path. We need to keep heading northwest past those large rocks up ahead.

Most of the trees in this section of the forest have trunks that are too big for any creatures to share their space. Sporadic patches of light undergrowth provide areas for creatures to hide while restricting movement for those passing through. A large rock outcropping to the east rises nearly 20 feet above the forest floor, and a small sinkhole to the northwest drops off sharply, descending to the ground 10 feet below.

Suddenly, a tree falls nearby and a roiling mass of snakes moves toward your position!

Round 1
Janira, seasoned from her adventures, springs into action first.

Remember Selmius Foster’s race against a marid and efreeti on the isle of Jalmeray, which taught us that nothing is truly impossible and every situation can end in victory. Stand resolute, and spread out!

Inspire Courage: +1 to attack and damage rolls, +1 to saves vs fear. She then moves 20 ft.

Next up

Acel ,Tsadok ,Eleanor ,Silas,Inira ,Waki ,Snakes

Knowledge nature to identify, DC 12

Combat map in Campaign Info tab

Acel takes the paper and starts writing diligently, flexing her toes. "Like I'm writing my own play..."

Acel spends the next two days of travel mumbling to herself about different tales and plots from her favorite plays.

As the snakes approach, Acel decides to take a risk.

"Snakes. Well then. Hope they don't mind tasting the rainbow." Quick to action, Acel scurries ahead of her allies , chants from her spellbook and releases a beautiful array of colors from her fingertips, hoping to overwhelm the snakes' senses.

Move action to get within a 15ft cone, then casting color spray. Will Save DC 13. Let's see if I get lucky.

"Snakes. Why did it have to be snakes? Or a swarm, f'r that matter?" Tsadok mutters as he crashes through the undergrowth, a flask of acid in hand.

Tsadok moves 2 squares diagonally up and to the left, then casts Guidance in preparation for his throw.

Not sure how effective arrows will be here, but I will try...

Inira takes a 5' step to the north-east to clear her line of sight and get within point blank range. Then she fires a couple of arrows at the snakes.

Attack: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

Attack: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 2 = 13
Damage: 1d8 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6

I was unable to move my position on the map.

Yeah, same here.

Similarly dubious about the effectiveness of a sword, but we'll see.

He draws his sword and shield and takes a step forward.

Acel bravely advances and blasts a swirling arc of colors into the center of the churning mass. It doesn't seem to halt the advance of more than a couple snakes.

Tsadok advances more cautiously, saying a prayer to the God of Battle. Since you don't have +1 base attack, you cannot draw the vial as part of your move. You'll have to draw it next turn. I'm just assuming you're not traveling around for two days holding a vial of acid. ;-)

Silas moves up to support the gnome as Inira launches two arrows into the swarm.

The first goes way wide, and the second looks sure to miss as well, until Janira shouts: Keep the faith, Pathfinders!

Gallant Inspiration, adding to Inira's second attack: 2d4 ⇒ (1, 4) = 5

Inira's second attack is now an 18, which hits for 7 damage! (1 more than you rolled because you are under the benefits of Inspire Courage)

The path of the arrow burrows through several snakes, but doesn't seem to be as forceful as it should have been.

Yeah, I didn't give you guys editing rights. I'll change it if you prefer to move your own characters. It should work now. If you accidentally move something, just hit ctrl + z to undo. I've updated map based on all moves thus far.

Next up:

Eleanor , Waki , snakes, everyone in party again

Inspire Courage (+1 competence to attack and damage to all pathfinders)

Snakes: (3 damage)

Oh, I meant right, not left.

Acel frowns as most of the snakes ignore the light show.

"Persistent little-"

Haha, Acel has no idea how swarms work.

Oh, I meant right, not left.

Position corrected

Eleanor moves to Janira and says, "I have nothing in my possession, and as the color spray just failed, no spells that might help. Otherwise, I propose we flee with all due haste. "

Waki will dig into his backpack for a vial of acid, hopeful it will be more effective than the spell.

He moves to the east 15' and north 10' to get a clearer view to hurl.

Eleanor moves over to Janira and laments her lack of applicable equipment while Waki sneaks around a tree, giving the swarm a wide berth.

The swarm then surges forward, crawling up Tsadok's legs and up past Acel's waist.

Swarm attack, automatic damage: 1d6 ⇒ 4

Tsadok and Acel each take 4 damage. You both must make a Fortitude Save DC 12 or be Nauseated for one round.

Janira Knowledge Check: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Janira looks upward, pensive despite the circumstances.

The snakes aren't immune to such spells. They just resisted it, is all. But here, this will help. Don't lose hope!

She reaches into her backpack and cautiously hands a vial to Eleanor.

Alchemist's Fire--should do the trick.

Continue Inspire Courage, +1 to attack and damage rolls. Move to draw flask, standard to give to Eleanor. Then 5 ft move.

Next up: PCs

When it's my turn, first I'll make my save to determine what happens next.
Fort: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24
Yes!
Noting that Inira's arrow had some effect, Tsadok realizes that his sword may actually be more useful than the acid. He draws his greatsword and swings in a wide arc downwards, careful not to hit his legs.
Attack on Snakes: 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (11) + 4 + 1 = 16
Damage: 2d6 + 6 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (1, 3) + 6 + 1 + 1 = 12
Breakdown: +4 Str, Inspire Courage, Whetstone.
He then takes a 5' step backwards (down).

Eleanor thanks Janira and opts for a Color Spray before trying the combustible bottle. She opts to use her reservoir to increase the potency of her spell.

DC 10 + 1 (spell level) + 1 (gnome) + 1 (resevoir) + 4 (int) = 17

Oops. Forgot the +1 DC due to casting an Illusion spell as a Gnome.

Fort Save: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19

Acel brushes some snakes off of her and quickly scurries out of the swarm. Once clear, she draws her sap. "I'm gonna squish em, and squish em good!"

Tsadok and Eleanor, I gave you guys editing rights on the Google Drawing. So you can move your own character wherever you want them to go. I moved both for you this time, though.

Tsadok's sword, no doubt guided by Gorum, explodes thunderously into the pile, sending snake bits flying in all directions.

Then Eleanor steps up and sends her own color spray past her teammates into the group of remaining snakes. The pattern of colors collides with devastating impact and stops the imposing swarm in its tracks.

Snakes are Blinded and Stunned for 4 rounds, then stunned for 1 round after that.

I hope you guys don't mind since this is PbP if I just rule that...Combat is over! It would be quite easy to mop up in 5 rounds.

The more "martial" members of the group hack at the remaining snakes as they lie transfixed, destroying enough to disperse the swarm.

Well done, everyone! You worked together and helped each other out--you will make fine Pathfinders yet! Now, come here Tsadok and Acel and let me see to your wounds...

With a couple quick incantations, your wound are healed. CLW on both, no need to roll, you're both back to full health. Not too shabby for the first encounter...

Janira shoulders her backpack, and addresses you all again: If everyone is ready, then we should keep moving in order to reach the caves by dusk. If we don't arrive by nightfall, I fear we will miss our gillman.

Feel free to post any RP conversations you would like to have, but when you are all ready to leave...

As the group continues to travel through the wilderness, you find trails blocked by fallen objects, shortcuts overgrown, and other minor delays that cost you time on your journey.

All of you please make a DC 15 Survival check

"Nice trick with the colors, Eleanor! Those snakes liked yours more than they liked mine." Acel grins in a mix admiration, gratitude and jealousy. "Now, for those snake bites."

Acel nods at Janira as she mends the wounds. "Well, ready when you guys are."

On the way over, the forest's many mysteries intrigue and confuse Acel. "What's-Her-Face never told me much about her forest home. Probably for the best, really. I heard that's where hags like to keep their victims. A bit unpleasant, even for me!"

Survival: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21 While she doesn't know much about forests, Acel does infer enough about these woods to avoid blundering much.