[PFS 8-16] GM Chie's House of Harmonious Wisdom [Tier 4-5] (Inactive)

Game Master Korolan

Chie stands up from the table, and smiles at the assembled team. "Well met Pathfinders! My name is Chie Fujioka, and I'm here to help! Amara Li sent me to gather you, and transport you to the small town of Ashima in Shokuro. She should have further details when you arrive! The trip shouldn't be very long, but should give you all some time to get comfortable with each other before starting out on the missions. We should arrive by tomorrow!"

Here is a good opportunity to introduce your character, as you travel to the Land of Tian Xia!

Ignaru bows low to the woman before taking his place behind a chair.

I am Ignaru Li, no relation to Ms Amara Li. I am a but a simple man who likes to garden and assist when ever I can.

Simple indeed. He wears no armor and carries a basic backpack, with a bedroll attached to the top. Some gourds hang off of his belt and two wands, that look like old tree limbs, are shoved right above the loops holding the flask.

A short man nods his head and speaks. "My name is Tenibri," he says from under the deep hood of his cloak. "I'm a wayang," he continues, drawing the hood back to reveal the deep indigo tint to his skin, and the pock-marked pattern of white-dot tattoos that travel over that canvas. "We've tended to stay to the shadows mostly," he chuckles at his little pun before continuing, "but we've always been here. More of us lately, in fact. I guess you'd say we're collectively becoming more bold. Or something like that."

All of see of Tenibri is his short stature, the deep black cloak, and a small black backpack that does a good job of blending into the cloak. If he has any weapons or other gear, they are certainly not obvious.

"Anyway, I'm glad to meet all of you, and I look forward to seeing Tian Xia; this will be my first visit! Is there anything I should know?" He looks around the table, interested to hear about any experiences anyone else has had in the foreign land.

A tall, fair skinned, fair haired man steps forward. He has an easy smile and a tattoo of a spiral marks his high forehead. He shifts uncomfortably in his heavy armour as if unused to the weight. My name is Ando Gallonica he says, and while my home is found in Egorian I have spent many years travelling the lands of Tien Xia. It will be good to return to them.

I have been marked by the Lady of Graves and she tasks me with ensuring that none come to her domain before it is their appointed time. He smiles and spreads his hands out showing he has no weapons. With the permission of each of you I shall join us together, linking us with the energy that connects all living things. In this way I shall do my humble best to make sure that this day is not your day to join my Mistress.

A grippli steps forward from the shadows where he is most comfortable and bows respectfully before Chie. He is covered from head to toe in dark clothing with only his eyes exposed. Bandoliers filled with obsidian darts cross his chest and a net hangs from his belt.

My name is Xiǎo Qīngwā, but you may call me Little Frog. It means the same thing. My shīfu is from Tian Xia, though I have never been there, so I would be very honored to go. I'm afraid I never learned the language though. Shīfu never allowed me to speak. That is why he never learned my real name, but gave me the name Little Frog instead. I hope I can do my best for every one of you.

This Tien-Min woman towers above even many of the men. Her eyes are pools of constant, harsh golden glow. Her full-plate armor is of Mendevian construction and appears to have recently been acquired. She bears an uncanny resemblance to a Tian-Xia depiction of Iomedae, but she wears the holy symbol of Shizuru and wears a katana.

"I am Ayo. I have the honor to serve the Lady Avelina of House Galfrey. I am a samurai, one who lives as though already dead. All I do is in service to my Mistress."

She folds her arms and her scowl deepens.

"Also, I am a poet, and will find the inspiration to compose at any time. I will not tolerate any interference in my work. Nor judgment. Nor peeping."

Thankfully, the ride to Tian Xia is uneventful. Upon docking in Goka, a large metropolis full of Markets and Tradition, Chie excuses herself for a quick moment to head to the Lantern Lodge.

I short while later, Chie returns with a small map, and travel instructions leading to the small town of Ashima, to meet with a woman named Mai Chun.

After a day or so of travel, you arrive in Ashima. Following the map leads you to an unassuming house tucked into a small dirt road. The screen door clacks open, to reveal an elderly woman of regal bearing with a lopsided grin. Long white hair meets her waist over colorful robes that looked familiar to ones in the finer salons in Goka.

"What fates and fickle winds bring blooming lilies to our forest island.
With such winds does history ebb and flow" Her voice is like silk from the finest caravans, but her eyes show the wisdom of age.

With that, she bows, and grins again. "Oh yes, You will do just fine. I do hope that you are fond of bears though."

Stepping aside, with a sweep of her arm to hold the screen open, she gestures inside. "Come along then! Quickly! And off with your shoes!"

Ignaru bows in return to the wise one.
I am happy we satisfy your request. I have fought a few beast, but not a bear. Ignaru sits his back pack on the ground and place his sandals beside it.

Once inside with everyone else. Ignaru speaks the female in a gentle tone.What is it you request us to do?

Ando will step forward carefully removing the armoured boots of his armour. He makes a distinctly incongruous sight.

Wait a minute, what did you say about bears?

Has everyone accepted my life link?

"Please do be careful. These were very expensive," Xiao says to no one in particular as he removes his magic boots.

Xiao will accept the life link.

Apologies for the late post. Time restraints prevented me from participating, besides the discussion post.

"Wonderful! We travel by boat! One of my favourite past-times!" is the first thing you hear from this cheery, hazel-haired creature. Nergi enters the room with a quiet nod, watching everyone else speak, and scanning their faces during the process. She bears a buckler on her shield arm, a bow and quiver on her back, and an axe with a rapier decorate her belt. Numerous scars mark her hands, and some can even be found on her face. This doesn't reduce her upbeat attitude, however - Her eyes and smile show a friendly expression when she is not quietly moving her mouth.

Pleasure to meet you, Pathfinders. My name is Nergi. I'll do my best to make sure you live through the assignment.

She politely declines Ando's offer: "I am familiar with this trick.", she states, presenting her scarred hands as proof.

"Surely, you would suffer through enough pain taking care of the other four agents, assuming things get hairy. I am able to manage on my own, but thank you for the offer."

After the voyage, Nergi's eyes start shining even brighter after the woman mentions bears. "Bears? I never saw one face to face!", she almost screams as she hastily removes her footwear and rushes inside.

Ayo bows and removes her boots with a practiced care and etiquette.

Ayo speaks calm and even, with no hint of irony. "Each morning I meditate on the many ways in which I might meet my inevitable death. I shall add 'mauled by bears' to the list."

"Surely, you would suffer through enough pain taking care of the other four agents, assuming things get hairy. I am able to manage on my own, but thank you for the offer."

You have been touched by the gods as well! This is marvellous news, never have I met one like myself before. Truly this is a wonderful day.

Noticing that Nergi is following his lips he frowns. Aah, they have taken your hearing yes, that is a great loss. I myself was marked in the fire of Pharasma's holy temple. I was but a child, travelling the deserts of Osirion with my parents. We had stopped at an oasis and I had run off to explore and stumbled into an ancient buried site. I was found the following day quite insensate. My parents did not understand what had happened, they still do not, but that day changed me....

He stops for a moment, lost in thought and seemingly far away. Snapping to he looks around, a little confused.

Oh, where were we, yes, pain is but an illusion of the mind Nergi, when one understands that you can transcend such concerns and truly understand the universe. My understanding is not yet so great but I would be happy to take on your care as well.

I will accept the life link. Being 2nd level in a 4-5 it is going to be necessary.

I hope thing do not get too hairy Ignaru responds to the new comers saying. I am to keep as clean shaven as possible. Cleanliness is a personal discipline next to holiness. And hair claims dirt and grime with ease. Obviously not getting it.

Forgot to mention that I will of course accept the life link

The halfling watches Ando's mouth while he talks. A sympathetic look appears on her face, with a hint of surprise on the sides.

"I guess we have a different approach, then. If the divines wish that I carry this burden to help my allies, I will do so. Pain fades - eventually."

She stops momentarily, thinking. Then she continues:"I will happily put my life on the line for my trusted allies. Even if most of my body is scarred as a result. Is there further proof of loyalty and dedication than that? Perhaps. Once I figure out what it is, I would gladly partake in it as well. For now, I merely give a small part of myself when aiding my companions."

"I am curious, however - you are the first one I have met with a similar... For the lack of a better word - condition. I look forward to discussing this topic at length, but I am afraid we will have to put it on hold for the time being. I believe our host is expecting our attention." She makes a nodding motion and holds out her hand in the silver-haired woman's direction, with an open palm facing the ceiling: Shall we?"

I will accept the life link. Being 2nd level in a 4-5 it is going to be necessary.

Hah! Only if you beat me to them. As a matter of fact, we might double dip on that life link, since I can do one as well. Although I see at least two level 2 melee characters in here, so you might need to share mine (ie alternate). We'll do it on the fly.

With the permission of each of you I shall join us together, linking us with the energy that connects all living things. In this way I shall do my humble best to make sure that this day is not your day to join my Mistress.

"I gratefully accept your offered help; thank you!" Tenibri says this eagerly, perhaps recognizing that the room is full of more experienced Pathfinders, and knowing he'll need all the assistance he can get. So it looks like I'm level 2 playing at a tier 4-5 table. And, I'm a full caster with all the lack of hit points that usually entails. So, pretty please, don't let me die. I would be happy to accept a Life Link from both oracles if that's a thing that's done. ;)

Tenibri happily removes his shoes, simple sandals that he places with the others by the door.

"Thank you for your hospitality." He looks a little concerned when their host mentions bears, but speaks nothing of it.

"I am curious, however - you are the first one I have met with a similar... For the lack of a better word - condition. I look forward to discussing this topic at length, but I am afraid we will have to put it on hold for the time being. I believe our host is expecting our attention." She makes a nodding motion and holds out her hand in the silver-haired woman's direction, with an open palm facing the ceiling: Shall we?"

Of course, of course. This region of Goka supplies some of the finest green tea to be found anywhere. I look forward to sampling it again.

With a certain amount of uncomfortable creaking and clanking Ando lowers himself to the proper seated position in the room they have been showed in to and looks around hoping to see tea on the boil.

Oh, this armour is so uncomfortable, sadly the vicissitudes of travel make it necessary, even in so civilised a place.

Ando draws out a small bags of herbs, so, tea?

"Now where are those bears I keep hearing of?", Nergi asks, eager to see the majestic beasts.

It better not be lazy pandas, GM!

So it looks like I'm level 2 playing at a tier 4-5 table. And, I'm a full caster with all the lack of hit points that usually entails. So, pretty please, don't let me die. I would be happy to accept a Life Link from both oracles if that's a thing that's done. ;)

Be my guest! And try to not get involved in many clashes.

Inside the small building, there are papers and books stacked perilously high. Scrolls and parchments lean against overstuffed shelves, as weapons and shields are displayed on every wall. Sitting in the only uncluttered area are six cushions placed concentrically around a large chalkboard.

"Welcome to my humble home! My name is Mai Chun, and I sent to Amara Li for your aid. About a mile from here, there is an old estate tucked into the wilderness of the Li Sho Forest. I believe that it may have been a small military estate in the days of Imperial Lung Wa. I was hoping that you would be able to retrieve any relics from Imperial Lung Wa, to prove how influential the state of Shokuro is!"

"I can give you directions to this estate, and you can leave whenever you are ready! Do you have any questions about your mission?"

Ando looks a little disappointed at the lack of tea but quickly perks up at mention of the estate

A chance to explore the mysteries of the past, excellent! Could you tell us more about this estate, who lived there, why was it abandoned, who or what lives there now? Also, bears?

"Indeed!", the halfling exclaims eagerly.

"I was told there would be bears, but I do not see any. For now, at least... Explain, if you would."

I would assume the Lady means there are bears who live around the estate and we should be careful.

Tenibri nods his head as the mission is explained. "That sounds rather straightforward. Of course, rarely are things quite that straightforward when the Society is involved; that's why you bring us in, isn't it?" He asks with a smirk.

He adds no questions at present, feeling that Ando has identified all of his initial questions quite well.

Iganru stands in silence and waits for an answer.

As you each ask your questions in turn, Mai Chun looks pleased, with a grin from ear to ear.

"Ah Ando. You are very wise. Asking about the Danger to make sure you can come back to spend the treasure that you earned. My first scouting party was very wise too. Ran back screaming at the first sight of any trouble. Her voice increases a pitch, as she squeaks "Help us, Mai Chun! There is a Giant Bear after us!" "We couldn't possibly go inside, Mai Chun! It is too Dangerous!" With a deep belly laugh, she looks thoughtful, before continuing, "On second thought, it is good that they ran. The spring festivals are coming up, and who would make the Flower and Squash Soup if Wu had gotten his head bitten off? No one, that's who. You though? Perfect for fighting large bears!"

Ando will raise an eyebrow at her tale. Just how giant is this giant bear? I am sure we will be able t handle it, it is just an animal after all, but it helps to be prepared.

With that he digs into his pack and pulls out a slim volume of the pathfinder chronicles. He starts flipping through it muttering as he does so, Was it Ambrus, hmm, no, maybe Callisra, nope, surely not Dreng! Of course not. Aah, here it is, advise from Adril Hestram on what to do if you meet an angry bear...

Knowledge Nature: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6
Includes a +2 bonus from a pathfinder chronicle

Bah, typical nonsense from Hestram, the man cannot write to save his life, or ours!

Nergi lets out a sigh. First time to see bears, and she would probably have to dispatch them from the plane.

"Fair enough. Is there a library or a vault or any specific room we should be looking for? Do you have a floor plan or something of the sort?"

Ayo sits quietly, her head down and eyes closed, as she listens to the conversation. Any questions she has at the moment have already been fielded, and she does not wish to appear impatient or impertinent to a woman above her station.

"Oh, a Library would be a good place to start. Or an office? Somewhere with paperwork. Specifically I am looking for documents. Maps, Letters, Scrolls. Information is valuable, to the right people. Other than that, try to grab anything of value. Well, historical value. If it's shiny and not bolted down, bring it back. If it is bolted down, we can go back with a Crowbar."

Ando raises a rather sceptical eyebrow at Mai Chun, she seems especially acquisitive, even for someone who works with the Society.

I am sure we can manage this. Do you have a map or directions to this place?

"Oh yes, one moment!" Mai Chun plucks a half-completed calligraphy worksheet from the top of one of the numerous stacks of papers, pulls a brush from her hair, and sketches a quick map into the Li Sho Forest. Once she hands it to you, she tilts her head to the side to inspect the back of the map. "Hmm. Wu's son has a lot of work to do if he wishes to become a scholar."

Not a moment after speaking, the screen door clacks open, and several children swarm through the door, kicking their shoes off into a wooden crate. "Aha! Bai! Come to the board and write 'Forest' ten times! How do expect to be able to write stories if you can't even spell them?"

Ando will bow to Mai Chun, We thank you for your hospitality and your help, if everyone is ready let's get going shall we?

He smiles as the children come swarming through the room, Aah, the excitement of youth, don't be too strict Mai Chun, perhaps we shall have some stories of our own to tell when we return...

With that Ando will rather awkwardly put his metal boots on and head outside to try and get his bearings with the map.

Nergi looks surprised at the flock of children spilling into the room without invitation.

"I guess that's our cue.", she states, looking at the younglings running about.

"Shall we head out?"

Ignaru smiles down at the children when they rush past. He makes his way to the door. He takes a moment to reminisce of the his learning years before stepping out into the open air. He slides his sandels back on and hefts his bag.

Figure out that map yet friend He asks towards Ando.

Tenibri stands, finding himself of a height with the tallest of the children. With nothing of consequence to gather, he begins moving towards the door, ready to leave with the rest of the group.

Following the map is easy, but the trip is longer than Mai initially estimated. A few hours into the forest, you start to find the landmarks that are on the map. Corroded lantern posts with the remnants of broken lanterns, and an empty shack, with arrow slits and hooks for weapons.

The last landmark on your map looms ahead of you, a tall tower, with rough stone sides and solid timbers.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

"I'm not the one, but the tower looks very climbable. Good handholds and footholds. One of you bigger and stronger folks would get a really good view from up top, I think. We might even be able to see the estate from up there." Tenibri stands well away from the tower, as if to reinforce his words that he's not a climber. Should have grabbed another Monkey Fish scroll; that was useful last time around.

As they head through the forest Ando will point out various native plants, shrubs and trees and provide a running commentary on their usefulness or otherwise in a variety of local remedies. He stops occasionally to collect samples while grumbling about how much his armour weighs.

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21

Look, someone nimble who isn't encased in a lot of stupid metal could probably clamber up there right quick and find the estate for us!

Ando then slaps himself on the forehead, doh, dolt, of course!. He heads over to the tower, as he does so he seems to be talking to someone, yes, I know, its been a long hot day, yes, yes, I will remember for next time, stop nagging

As he reaches the base of the tower he quietly casts a spell, stretches his arms out and rises smoothly into the air to get a decent vantage point.

perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9

Ignaru goes to grab hold of a start point on the tower. But stops when he sees the Ando starting to float up by unseen forces.

Ah he is graced by the divines. Good to know

Seeing him approach Ando calls out.

Feel free to join me Ignaru, two sets of eyes are better than one in this forest!

On my way friend. Seeking out a good starting point. Ignaru climbs the tower.

Will take 10 for the climb making it a 16

if the climb of 16 makes it

Nice view indeed friend.

perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13 I do not think I found anything

How remarkable, there is some old chest up here! It has a bow in it and a very sad little letter.

Ando will check the contents for magic and give it a once over to make sure there is nothing dangerous lurking within.

Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27

Assuming all looks safe, Ignaru, can you recover them easily enough? Don't think I can reach from over here.

Also, I think we can see the estate as well!

Ando will note a landmark they might be able to use to reach the estate and then head back down.

Xiao didn't have to be asked to climb the walls. It was almost compulsory for him to climb things.

Once the estate had been spotted, Xiao leaps from tree to tree. His small agile form allowing him to move effortlessly through the canopy towards their destination.

Follow me!

Climb: 10 + 14 - 2 = 22
Acrobatics: 10 + 11 = 21 Xiao is always considered to have a running start.
Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

Nergi remains on the ground, alternating between checking the surroundings and the pathfinders in the treetops. Seeing Xiǎo jump around, she looks at Ayo and Tenibri, puzzled.

"What happened up there?"

Tenibri shrugs his shoulders with a smile. "I don't know, but it sure has our... frog-ian... friend excited."

"Grippli... that's it. Sounds much better than frogian. It's kind of nice to have him along; I'm usually the unusual one."

Survival: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (2) + 6 = 8

Ayo raises an eyebrow at. Xiao's jumpinng and climbing. She shrugs at Nergi's question and folds her arms.

"Xiao's energy must have gotten the better of him. I have not encountered a grippli before. Perhaps this is normal."

Ando will gently lower himself to the ground. I love the feeling of freedom that levitate gives, such a useful little spell. We should probably keep up with our amphibious friend there, we don't want him to run into a giant bear all on his own!

With that Ando will head off after Xiao towards the estate.