For those who hail from the Town of George, this is where we will do battle!~
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"Thats quit the billing, little Renli. For one so small to have achieved so much, Desna smiles upon you, truly.
"I am a much simpler man, the name is Bezni, Bezni Harman, of Varisia. As far as my talents...I'm known to be good at getting into trouble, and with Desna's smile, I sometimes am able to find my way out.
"Among my people, the short folk are known to be tokens of great fortune. I hope that proves to be the truth in our travels together."
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A Young Gnome, cloaked in a white cloak, comes striding in riding atop an old, scarred wolf.
Desna Smiles?... Desna does not but quake in fear at the power of the one true god!
Huh, what's that Mutton? My Mask? Cayden's Balls, I forgot my mask! What the Spheres, I had it right here under my cloak.
The little gnome fumbles around through his gear. "What the, how the hell did it end up in there!
Donning the amateurly crafted mask of Razmir, Ruckus begins again...
As I was saying, all shall quake in fear of the Victor of the Starstone, Master of the 31 Steps, the one true god, Aroden Reborn, Razmir! Muwahaha!
Damn these masks are stuffy... Ruckus takes off the mask and tosses it back into his sack. Good now that that is out of the way... Hi. LotsaFutzRuckus here, Favored of the Decermvirate and Blessed of Razmir. Please to make your acquaintance.
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A Tall, dark man approaches. His skin is green, rough like that of his ancestors. He stands 6'4 and seems almost as broad as he is tall. From his mouth protrude two clearly sharpened tusks. Strapped across his back can be seen a Great Sword and large Flail.
So this is it then?
Looking at the relatively diminutive crew before him he takes a sip of water. It drips down the front of his face. He wipes it away with his sleeve.
I'm Jovlund
He says, as if expecting this to explain everything.
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The glib halfling hops down from the box in the warehouse, walks over to Jovlund, pats him on the bicep and smiles. "Yes my friend, yes, you are."
Renli wears a wide brimmed leather hat with an upturned side. A short cowled hood rests on his shoulders. Garbed is brown studded leather armor, with a sword strapped to his hip, a pack on his back, and a walking stick in his hands, Renli looks ready for a grand quest.
"Well, then, let us be on our way"
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 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. “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, leaving you seated with Janira.
Smiling, she looks to each of you, "Any questions?"
Janira looks at Jovlund quizzically, then smiles. "You are a field commission, am I right? Perhaps then the mission of the pathfinders isn't as clear to you. No worries. Remember that a pathfinder's duties are to explore, report, and cooperate! So, you must explore the caves then report on what the gillmen are doing, and accomplish this while working together to ensure you all make it back alive. Understand?"
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A stocky young man of average height wearing a red bandanna a perpetual smirk and more knives then you can count...
With a chuckle, Well boys, best be gettin on with it, before the Gnome makes a ruckus. I expect to be a full Pathfinder by this evening.
Turning to Janira, with the most charming smile he can come up with...which isn't all that charming...while in actuallity trying to size up the various scrolls/tools/misc equipment she has and determining her worth. Pleasure to be of Service
...now, whats a Gillmen?
Janira giggles at Bezni's question, "Ah, an inquisitive mind and an ambitious heart, the hallmarks of a pathfinder. Though given that the journey there will take us the better part of two days, I doubt you will be confirmed this evening. As for Gillmen, they are a humanoid race much like humans save for the three piscine gills on both sides of their necks. They breathe both water and air, and can move as easily below the waves as on land. They’re a little secretive but not outright hostile. Most live in or near the water, as their skin requires frequent immersion.”
Eyeing Janira up and down, she has quite a bit of gear on her. She wears a finely crafted chain shirt beneath a tight leather jerkin, with a black leather whip on her hip and a crossbow on her back. The large pack she placed on the ground has a multitude of pockets and looks quite full. A several potions and larger vials adorn her bandolier, a pair of wands are tucked in her belt, and a scroll case hangs from her hip.
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Picking up his pack Well, I prefer to do rather than wait and fish watching seems like waiting to me, so lets be on with it.
Walking over to a nearby table of a sleeping drunkard, Jovlund takes a fist full of left over food from his plate and shoves it in his mouth. Taking a swig of whatever's left in the cup, the liquid runs around Jovlund's tusks and drips down his chin. He doesn't seem to notice.
Exploring I can do and protecting is my forte.
He pauses, thinking about his former employment.
Unless I was being paid to do otherwise. Then I did that.
Finishing off the cup he drops it back onto the table. It clatters and topples over.
Either way, we'll all make it back in as few pieces as possible
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"The Mountain has a good point - specially if its gonna take us two days to get there. Might as well talk as we walk. I am ready to leave now, anyone need anything from the market on the way?"
Renli finishes his tankard of ale, pulls back on his pack, and steps toward Jovlund while looking expectantly at the others.
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Nodding to the company, while pocketing the star knife he has been absentmindedly twirling in his hand.
"Two days, huh, well I suppose that means two days back as well." Chuckles. "Not that I'm adverse to a bit of travel, you could say that wanderlust runs in my blood" Smirk "But, we best pick up some more supplies."
"Are we expecting trouble on our journey?"
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Gillman hmmm... Mutton has never tried gillman. What's that? Well they taste like fish I would assume. But hopefully not fishy fish just kinda fishy like old ham.
Fishy...
Fish...
Torag's testicals! I can't swim!!!!
Janira I'm afraid I'll need to pass on this wet adventure. No one likes a wet gnome
... especially the gnome getting wet!
Janira laughs at the gnome's words. "Agent Rukus, do you not remember that a pathfinder does not get to choose their missions, they are assigned to them? But, no worries, we are not going underwater, we are heading to caves at the base of the Kortos Mounts, a good distance from the coast, so your inability to swim will not be a problem... though you may want to learn for the future, given that we are on an island at the moment."
Turning toward Bezni, "To your concerns of trouble, it is always possible. Beyond the walls of Absalom, the Isle of Kortos quickly becomes a wild place, with dozens of predators inhabiting the wilds, not to mention the risk of bandits. Once we near our destination, be advised that centaurs control the wooded realms at the base of the Kortos Mounts, the areas farther up the Mounts are controlled by minotaurs, and the icy peaks are home to tribes of harpies. They’re always vying for territory, but with any luck, we should be able to avoid them and reach the caves without conflict."
"A pathfinder is always prepared, so I recommend any of you lacking in rations, bedding, journals, weapons, or anything of the sort quickly make way to the market, procure it, then return. We will need the better part of two days to reach the cave, and we need to be there by tomorrow night. 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. Meet me here in an hour, then we depart!"
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Assign?.... Of course I know that.
But I have it on good authority that Venture-Captain Valsin has a interest in me, and has taken to assigning my tasks personally. Clearly my exploits in Razmiran have caught his attention.
As to the matter of centaurs. I don't like half breeds, they almost always prove to be half-wits. Ruckus looks over at Jovlund... Yup. Never trust a man with a mane my mother used to say. So if we encounter any you tall folk should kill them quickly so we don't get delayed.
Now does anyone know why some gillmen would be scene entering a cave far from the shore?
Janira chuckles, "Of course we don't know why?! If we did, you would not be completing your Confirmation investigating the subject! You are quite silly Ruckus! Alright then, if you are all prepared, let's be on our way."
You make your way quickly through the streets of Absalom toward the Western Gate. A different air surrounds you - a feeling of excitement and anticipation. Janira points out a few Pathfinder landmarks as you work to depart the city.
Once beyond the gates, you continue westward across the Cairnlands along the well-worn path to Diobel. After breaking for a short afternoon meal, you divert from the path and head into the wilderness, traveling deeper and deeper into the forests that surround the Kortos Mounts. As the dark of night begins to descend, you make a simple campfire, around which Janira shares many stories from Pathfinder lore.
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Along the way, Ruckus spends his time reciting stories of things he's experienced in his youth while mixing in tales of the power and glory of Razmir. All of these stories are things he either heard while in Razmiran or figments of his imagination. Some might claim that the stuff his imagination comes up with may not in fact be true, but as Ruckus is blessed by Razmir, he believes that Razmir, being great and powerful, is himself transmitting these stories into Ruckus' mind, and as such they must be factual.
He only quiets down when the group comes across something utterly amazing, like the dead toad that had been squashed by a wagon wheel. He is still quite upset that the party only gave him 7 minutes to stop and study it...
Mutton, for his part doesn't seem to mind the gnome's incessant rantings. He trots along, keeping a discerning eye on the environment and those traveling with the group.
As the group prepares to camp, Ruckus turns to the Wolf; Mutton why don't you see if there are any hares or squirrels around and I'll cook us up something yummy to eat.
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While we are travelling survival to determine and remember our path, and how to get back to the city if necessary.
In good natured jest,"It seems Renli, that you were not the token of good fortune I hoped you would be. If this gnome continues his prattle for this entire journey...that would be very unfortunate...for all of us."
"The wolf seems alright though" Attempt Wild Empathy on Mutton, if successful will start playing with him.
The morning dawns anew and Janira is quick to break camp. "We must move swiftly today if we are to reach the caves before nightfall. If we don't reach them tonight, the secrets will be lost for another month! Come on!"
As you progress deeper into the forest, the trees towering overhead begin to shield much of the morning 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.”
Coming around the rocks you spot a lone man, standing, almost expectantly, in the middle of the woods.
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Ruckus was just getting into the story of how he spent an entire summer successfully learning the difference between the northern Varisian ladybug which has spots vs the southern variant which only displays dots when the mysterious man appears.
Caught off-guard he quickly searches for his Razmir mask of surprise, but instead comes up with the mask of contempt. Finding that emotion suiting he dons the mask.
You there. Bow before the presence of one blessed by the victor of the starstone, master of the 31 steps, lord of men and the one true god, Areoden Reborn, Razmir!
Before addressing the stranger he whispers "Defend" to Mutton in Slyvan.
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Always something...
The woods are silent save for the peeps of forest animals, snapping of branches, chattering of squirrels and forest creatures, and ranting from a rather excited gnome.
Ah. Razmir? I believe Nethys was plenty man enough in his days for magics.
The curious fellow looks quizzically at the gnome as a wolf steps guardedly beside him.
I'm glad you all caught up with me. It seems that you are but the few only to be out of sorts here. Name's Wren - at your service. I figured it was some other group in the Pig's Paunch earlier. I've been waiting for your arrival.
You must be Janira. As always, your beauty proceeds you. Let us see if we have this right; A man, a man of orcish blood, halfling, and gnome... with wolf in company. The rumors at the Paunch were true and I have my party.
A man of strange tenacity approaches within the dawn of the sun rays between the trees. Tall and lithe, a leathered human stands, with backpack and journal in hand.
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Guarded...casually flipping a knife end over end in hand...ready for action if it comes to it.
"I take it your here for confirmation as well then? or did you follow us all this way for a more...entertaining...confrontation.
"It's always nice to have good company on the road...but if you mean us harm...well I enjoy a good scrap just as well, make your choice."
Sense motive on Janira, how does she react to this mans sudden appearance, was she expecting him?
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Jovlund stands arms crossed,
All roads are dangerous for lone travelers. It seems strange to come here alone rather than meet us at the Pig's Paunch when we were with Kreighton. He made no mention of...he pauses momentarily while looking him up and down one such as you. Janira, do you know this man?
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Nethys? Oh yea the mad one! Well... Nethys is nothing but a piss pot compared to the great and powerful Razmir!!!
Hmmm but he does wear a mask... and he was a god-king...
WAIT!
I have just received new information from my Lord. The master of mankind says that he accepts the lunatic Nethys as a friend and trusted ally.
Looking back to Janira, So do we have to kill this guy or what?
Janira chuckles at the dialogue between the company. "Now boys, calm down. Like you all, Wren is due for his Confirmation, though he has missed his previous opportunities more than once. There are rumors that he doesn't actually want to become a Pathfinder, that he lacks the devotion to the cause and the ability to follow orders. Wren, it seems you are finally ready to prove those stories wrong!"
As if on cue, a flock of small birds cries and flies away. Beyond the sound of their wings, a low growl comes to your ears on the wind and looking around you see three mangy wolves closing on you.
INITIATIVE ORDER
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Wolves
Jovlund
Renli
Ruckus
Bezni
Sphyn
Janira
Wren
Mutton
The wolves look quite hungry, and charge Jovlund, Wren, and Bezni.
The wolves attacking Jovlund and Wren land vicious bites into their victim's legs, drawing blood and knocking both to the ground. Bezni is able to avoid the slashing jaw of his assailant.
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Arms crossed, Jovlund is too slow to react to the charging wolf and is pulled to the ground.
Kicking free he rolls backwards, head over heels, bringing himself to his feet, facing his opponent.
Rage Stats (pls double check, first time barbarian)
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New Str +4= 20 (+5)
New Con +4= 22 (+6)
New AC -2= 15
New HP 20 (1d12 + 4 con + 4 rage at 2/con bonus)
New Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +2= +2 (+2 vs fear);
New Melee Great Sword +7 (2d6+7, 19-20/x2), Heavy Flail +7 (1d10+7, 19-20/x2)
Special Attacks Bite(primary, nat)+4 (1d4+3)
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He pulls his great sword and attacks
His humilation turns to rage, unable to draw his weapon he faces his quarry and unleashes a guttural, blood curdling roar
Rage Stats (pls double check, first time barbarian)
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New Str +4= 20 (+5)
New Con +4= 22 (+6)
New AC -2= 15
New HP 20 (1d12 + 4 con + 4 rage at 2/con bonus)
New Fort +6, Ref +2, Will +2= +2 (+2 vs fear);
New Melee Great Sword +7 (2d6+7, 19-20/x2), Heavy Flail +7 (1d10+7, 19-20/x2)
Special Attacks Bite(primary, nat)+4 (1d4+3)
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Edit: unfortunately he coughs, stutters and his voice cracks. However he looks frickin scary when he does it.
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Renli had been relaxing against a fallen tree whilest the taller folks bickered and measured... their swords. But with the charge of the wolves, he drew alert, holding his response until he saw which of his allies most needed his aid. Seeing the Half-Orc split one wolf in half with a massive sword, then the newcomer lash out with a morningstar while being aided by some strange, tentacled beast, he determined the Varisian swordsman could use his aid. "Bezni, I'm on your right!"
Trusting in his innate sense of luck, Renli charges the wolf, wielding only his walking stick.
The wolf hovering over Jovlund lashes out as the half-orc rises, but the mighty man brushes the attempt away as he draws his sword and cleaves the wolf in two.
Wren's morningstar strikes true, and his otherworldly companion's tentacles flay the flesh of the wolf, dropping it to the ground.
Bezni cuts a deep wound into the third wolf, and Rezni's club strike finishes the creature off.
Janira reaches out to Wren, helping him to his feet. As she does, she utters a strange incantation, and the wound on Wren's body start to heal.
Janira looks around at the rest of the company, smiling, "Well handled my friends. You have obviously all been attentive during your lessons with the Master of Blades."
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Accepting the hand up, Wren stands hunched over brushing the dirt from his clothes. Regaining his compusre, he assesses the party.
Yes, he certainly has done a remarkable job. Thanks for stepping into a rear guard. We should probably keep moving, there might be more.
And you...
Wren looks over to the blackened and surreal outsider, examines its tentacles and shadowy coat.
We've talked about this before and moved past this. You want this to be a short stay? Next time, warn me.
A charismatic grin comes over Wren's face and at the same time the monstrous beast seems to smile back with his jagged illustrious teeth that seems more sinister than playful.