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This is the OVERSEER thread for the PbP Community Multi Table Special II - Blood under Absalom.
General
* This is the location where I'll be posting announcements relevant to all the players.
* To reduce 'clutter' and ensure things aren't missed, please do not post in this Gameplay thread except for when it is indicated to do so (I'll point it out).
* I'll be opening the first post in 24 hours (Friday 13th Sydney Australia time) though will allow a little 'check in' time before the game kicks off properly.
* Try to make an effort to be posting every day. We understand that life happens and that posts may not happen every day, but we would like to see you experience as much of the content available as possible. Your individual GM is aware of this timeframe and has their own expectations for what your activity should be during their game. Follow their lead.
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”The Decemvirate are truly grateful that so many of you have answered this summons to the Grand Lodge, for they, above all, know the trying lives that field agents endure. Indeed, you have only to look about this courtyard and gaze upon your colleagues to know they have come from all ends of Golarion to be among us. Look not grim, but rather determined, for this summons is not one brought of dire threat or terrible consequence. No! The Decemvirate has instead summoned you to taste the opportunity to enter the greatest contest of martial arts the world has ever known—the Ruby Phoenix Tournament”
”The legacy of Tian Xia’s legendary mystic arcanist, the nearly immortal Grandmaster Hao Jin, the Ruby Phoenix Tournament is held only once every ten years. The Tournament is run by Sifu Xho Nuo, Emissary of the Ruby Phoenix and sole heir to Hao Jin’s secrets. The prize for victory: an artifact pulled from Hao Jin’s fabled collection of the greatest wonders Golarion has ever known”
”Though Xho Nuo has made no formal announcement, we have learned the sifu has chosen to hold the qualifying round for this decade’s tournament here in Absalom. The Pathfinder Society has long sought to send one of its members to compete in this tournament. If our information is true, this means that for the first time, the Society has the opportunity to qualify a good number of its field agents. While the chance to glean an artifact from Hao Jin’s collection is enticing, that is hardly the entirety of our goal. However, I shall speak more on this subject at a later time”
”At present, we have learned that Xho Nuo plans to host a covert meeting to address all would-be contestants. Don’t get too excited though; it’s supposedly being held at a decrepit tavern in the Docks called the Devil’s Dregs. Go there and see what details you can pick up about the competition and the other entrants, but watch your backs. There’s little law to protect you down on the wharves, and it’d take a riot to raise any attention. Oh, and I wouldn’t expect an appearance from Xho Nuo either, as his social status prevents him from contact with such filthy and common places. My guess is that he’ll send one of his agents to rile up as many lowlifes as possible to serve as fodder for the first round of the contest”
”Lastly, though its likely Xho Nuo is aware of our interest in the competition, we need all our agents to maintain as much secrecy as possible. For all we know, he has deliberately chosen Absalom to bait our interests, so it’s imperative that he identify as few of our agents as possible. From here out, to keep our affiliations covert, we request all of you make arrangements for your stay outside the Grand Lodge. Try to pick a place that’s low key to avoid attention. Don’t worry about the cost though. The Decemvirate will pick up the tab. Good luck.”
Without warning, a flash of smoke flares up from the center of the tavern floor. As it clears, a towering, golden-skinned humanoid of hideous and terrifying countenance steps forth, ebon teeth gleaming fiendishly. Standing before the crowd, she greets them with a slow and gracious bow, yet her eyes never look away.
The creature gestures to call the crowd’s attention, and one by one they fall silent.
“Good evening and allow me to introduce myself, I am called Kiang Zhen. My sifu, Xho Nuo, the Emissary of the Ruby Phoenix, wishes for me to tell all of you that he is most pleased to see so many of you eager to attend the tournament. It is his desire that everyone please find a table and make yourselves comfortable at his expense.”
The room becomes increasingly packed as contestants file in, and barely a minute later arriving contestants quickly fill all remaining tables leaving the tavern with standing room only – yet more and more continue to fill the place out – it is tightly packed and it is a struggle to both keep a hold of your own food and drink as well as dodging the spilled food and drink of others.
A short time later…
”Again, your attention please. I regret to inform all of you that Sifu Xho Nuo will not be present this evening, though he has appointed me to speak on his behalf.”
”To speak with candor, there are many who wish the Sifu dead and wish to steal from him the ancient secrets he was appointed to guard. This comes as no surprise to the Emissary, for he has been charged with the protection of a great and terrible power. Even now, in this very room, some of these same individuals sit amongst us. To them I say, Sifu knows who you are and fears you not. He even entreats you to join the Ruby Phoenix Tournament, for he shall not compromise the primary intention of the contest – to find the world’s greatest martial artist. Rest assured, this tournament shall test the mettle of its contestants, regardless of their intentions. Competition shall be fierce and violent without regard for contestants lives. That is your concern – not mine, not the Emissary’s. Those who fail might be lucky enough to walk away with their lives. For this reason, there are few places where our tournament is truly welcome. Thus, given the nature of the tournament and other circumstances, the Emissary has expressed to me the need to retain secrecy. However, I assure you he shall make an appearance before the end of the qualifying round.”
”Lastly, I have noticed many of you have come as teams. This is good, for initially, you may need help from allies you trust.” The beast pauses for a moment, letting his dark, pupil-less gaze hover upon the crowd. From his belt he unfastens a leather satchel and holds it aloft before the crowd. “I have here 100 rubies. On the morrow, fifty of these rubies will begin to glow, and those individuals or groups in possession of one such gem shall be contacted by one of our agents, who will give them the details of where the first event of the qualifier will take place.” then with a wide and wild grin he says “And so it begins!”
On his final words, he tosses the bag into the air, sending the rubies scattering everywhere. The next moment, he vanishes, leaving behind only a vaporous wisp.
Without warning, loud slamming noises echo through the tavern, even over the fray of the combat within. Moments later, the front doors rupture in a shower of splinters. In full battle regalia, a contingent of Absalom’s First Guard rush into the room. Swinging heavy chains and nets, they beat into the brawlers en mass, dragging dozens to the floor. The remainder of the contestants break from their opponents, and the crowd devolves into a raging mob as all race frantically for the nearest exit to avoid arrest.
Following the directions given to you by your tengu liaison, you arrive just past dusk at the shipping house. Soon enough, a small crowd of would-be contestants begins to gather.
Approaching the entrance you spot a dishevelled, barefooted man dressed in plain sackcloth leaning in the shallow doorway. As you draw nearer, he slowly raises his head to examine the crowd. Then, grinning a toothy smile, he holds out his hand and asks “Any of you happen to find a ruby?”
The crowd excitedly signals their affirmative response and several glowing rubies are thrust into the air, there is an electric vibe flowing through the assembled host and everyone seems very ready for action.
The man nods and pushes the door open. Then he holds out a sack to collect the rubies of those seeking entry. As the various contestants enter, he directs them towards a flight of stairs near the back of the warehouse. These stairs descend into a wide and shadowy basement converted into a crude, make-shift arena illuminated by a ring of greasy-scented torches. The main floor is cleared of all objects save for a dusting of sand and straw that covers the cold stone floor. An assortment of contestants have already arrived, anxiously scanning the room. Almost all in attendance are recognizable from the previous night’s brawl.
From across the arena floor strides Kiang Zhen, the terrifying creature who represents Sifu Xho Nuo. Clapping her massive, clawed hands, she calls for silence, and with a low growl addresses the entire room as she runs her hands over her gruesome golden horns.
“Bringing defeat upon your perceived adversaries is only part of what it takes to walk the path of a truly great warrior. A true master sees beyond his adversaries; he sees the war and not just the battle. Last night, I watched how all of you were quick and eager to fight one another—therefore today... today I shall see how you fight together! Let’s see how well you can keep each other alive!” As she finishes this exuberant and enigmatic statement, smoke flashes erupt throughout the arena, and several dozen hidden trapdoors suddenly spring open, unleashing a horde of otherworldly beasts!
As the once raging battle begins to slow, a strange cloud of translucent smoke appears in the center of the arena, coalescing into the demonic form of Kiang Zhen. The oni raises her hand, and the remaining creatures suddenly fall back and drop to their knees as if to acknowledge defeat.
”Well done, well done!”
”My minions accept your victory, and you have adequately the Emissary. Please, lower your weapons. I congratulate those of you still alive, for you have grown that much closer to qualifying for the Ruby Phoenix Tournament!”
The oni pauses for a minute to study the crowd before continuing, ”Beneath the trapdoors lies a series of subterranean passages. Scattered within the passages I have secured a collection of small, but nearly priceless porcelain vases. Your challenge is to locate one of these vases and return it to me. However, there is a catch – there are fewer vases than competitors. Only those who present me with a vase shall pass on to the next part of the competition.”
Small groups of challengers slowly begin emerging from the tunnels, some elated at having a vase, some looking crushed with defeat as they stare at their empty hands. Victorious or vanquished, they drift off into the night to get clean and well rested after a crawl through a sewer.
*******************
*******************
There is a loud banging at the door! Moments later the door flies open revealing a dozen armed tengu behind it. They quickly storm into the room, blades drawn.
The first rays of light creep into the inn’s window, accompanied by a loud knocking at the door. Someone in the hall screeches, “The sun is up! Time to gather your tickets and head to The Opera!”
***
Arriving at the opera, you are greeted by a trio of actors dressed in the garb and makeup of a traditional opera from Lung Wa. They seat you in the first few rows. Looking around you see a few others also in attendance. Strangely, there are no sets and the unlit stage is empty except for three plain wooden chairs. Then Kiang Zhen strides onto the stage and addresses the audience.
“Today I am treating myself to a display of opera, which all of you shall perform for me! Backstage, you shall find traditional costumes that will determine the roles you will portray. You may choose these roles yourself, but be forewarned - you must act within the limits of your role. Your objective is to perform an epic combat against a rival group. However, there must be no bloodshed. Any shows of lethal force will result in your immediate disqualification from the event. The troupe able to force its opponents to yield is the victor. Now go and prepare yourselves for the evening’s performance. It starts in 10 minutes!”
***Overseer post***
A crowd of black-robed mourners gathers in a small, grassy square near the edge of the cemetery. The assembly forms a procession, which winds through the cemetery to one of the oldest and most opulent plots. There, the entrances to an entire row of aging marble mausoleums stand open. Before each rests a coffin.
The procession stops, and a woman in the robes of a Pharasmin cleric steps forward. She approaches the various groups of mourners and, speaking in a solemn tone, requests each of them to hoist a casket and carry it into one of the mausoleums. Then she adds the following instructions: “This next competition is the final one of the qualifier. The Emissary lies somewhere in the catacombs below. All you must do now is seek him out and touch his robes. Good luck.” Then the woman nods and leaves, without further explanation.
A lone Pathfinder suddenly breaks through the gaping wall of elementals and runs towards the Emissary’s platform, leading the charge. It is Jin-Goro of the Exchange faction!
Cheers erupt from fellow Pathfinders as they rally to keep the gap open whilst the brave and desperate lone figure races forward.
Jin-Goro reaches to touch the platform, but as he does, the Emissary bursts into a maddening laugh, and with a wave of his hand, the platform erupts into a shower of smoke, sparks, and cherry blossoms. Before your eyes, eight monks dressed in the robes of their sifu appear, standing in a circular formation atop the platform. With a calm grace, each one assumes a combat stance. Behind the wall of qinggong disciples, the Sifu again calmly seats himself. He closes his eyes, folds his legs, and sits in the lotus position, awaiting the victors.
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Without warning, the entire cavern begins to shudder. Atop the dais, Sifu Xho Nuo’s slight form begins to glow with a soft, white light. Slowly, without breaking his meditative stance, his body rises, levitating a few feet above the dais.
Then without warning, a burst of bright energy ripples from his body, striking all of his disciples and causing them turn gaseous and explode in a shower of rose petals. The Emissary remains motionless, amidst the fluttering petals, waiting for his new champions to claim their victory.
The cavern is thrown into chaos from the ripple of magical energy as the Emissary finally allows touch, and the assembled horde rushes over each other to get to the top of the dias! From the throng of warriors, a single arm reaches forth and touches the Emissary - It is Davorin of the Silver Crusade!
Slowly, the Emissary opens his eyes and his body unfolds. Standing before the crowd, he bows graciously and his mouth curls into a contented smile.
“I’m truly touched by your efforts; this has been a stellar competition thus far. To those who have fallen, I give my heartfelt regret and sympathy—however, I seek only the greatest warriors"
“To the rest of you now standing before me... Congratulations! You have all succeeded in qualifying for the illustrious Ruby Phoenix Tournament. But be forewarned— tonight’s competition was mere child’s play compared to what is to come"
“Still, for the moment you should celebrate, for yours was a victory not easily won. But waste not too much time in celebration, for soon enough you must travel to Goka on the western coast of distant Tian Xia to compete against other competitors from across Golarion of your skill... or better. And for this, you must be ready.”
Upon his parting words, Sifu Xho Nuo vanishes in a puff of pale white smoke.
***
Thanks!
Players - Thanks for being a great bunch who played in the spirit of the game and took the challenges as they came and just ran with it. I appreciate the support you have shown your GM's, and the positive and constructive feedback about how we can keep making these events fun. PbP is a challenging medium to play in with a time constraint, and these Multi-tables are fast paced and unforgiving - just like face to face.
GM's & Backup Team - Thanks to you guys for your help and assistance and being part of delivering, I know full well the 'next level' commitment these Specials demand, and being able to hang in there for the white knuckle ride is very admirable - I hope the experience has been rewarding!
I would also like to pass on my thanks the Online VO Team, who have been a real asset when it comes to bouncing ideas around, and just being a great bunch who can be relied upon for intelligent answers to some of the most oddball questions that arise. Good luck with the next Game Day (starting soon!)
On that note, Tonya has also graciously donated a pile of Paizo gift vouchers to us (because she's great like that!) and so there are a few more rolls to go...
***
Prizes
1st Place – Davorin
2nd place – Jin-Goro
- Both recieve a $10USD Gift voucher.
13x$10USD gift vouchers being rolled.
Two dice rolled for each voucher.
First die determines table, second die determines person - GM = 1, the remainder in (character) alphabetical order
Only ONE Prize per person
Registered Tables:
1 Tyranius
2 Nightdeath
3 Hmm
4 Kuey
5 Fuzzfoot
6 Zinou
7 Batpony
8 Skipper
9 Arrowhawk
10 Yours
11 Devil
12 Hiding (Maga)
13 GME (GM Kashka)
14 AMP
15 Aero
16 Trex
17 Ilmakis
18 Overseer team
Prize rolls:
Voucher 1
Voucher 2
Voucher 3
Voucher 4
Voucher 5
Voucher 6
Voucher 7
Voucher 8
= DUPLICATE/REROLL
Voucher 8
Voucher 9
Voucher 10
Voucher 11
Voucher 12
Voucher 13
I will be coming by the tables later to provide details to the winners.
***
^^^^^ WHOLEHEARTEDLY!!!!
Great job to the entire online team for pulling this together!
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Shifty you were BEYOND AWESOME!
BRAVO! Well done all! Thank you!
Thanks for keeping things together Shifty. I hear some specials allow for characters above level 12. Any plans for one of those?
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Thanks for putting this together Shifty; and thank you to all the GMs who ran a table.
-Posted with Wayfinder
thanks Shifty and to all the GM's.... it was a blast.
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Davorin steps to the winner's stand.
"I would like to thank, my fellow Pathfinders, the Decemverite, and my Venture-Captains and Masters for the training provided. I would especially like to thank my team for keeping us all standing. We couldn't have done it without you, and you, and you..." Davorin begins pointing to various members of the crowd.
Davorin continues, "So Peribras, Jhon, Daryus, Dreggar, and Sarephta this is for you! I would also like to thank Drandle Dreng for getting me up early this morning to ensure I could participate in this fight..."
The music begins to rise as Davorin is forced off the stage...
Thank you to Shifty and team!
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Thanks for keeping things together Shifty. I hear some specials allow for characters above level 12. Any plans for one of those?
Siege of the Diamond City will be scheduled for this Fall during PBP Gameday VI. That runs to level 15.
After that, Shifty was planning on running Race for the Runecarved Key in January. That is TIERS: ALL, so bring your 19th level characters!
The very next special that we'll run is Cosmic Captive, but that only runs to Tier 11. However... If you bring your tenth or eleventh level characters to certain routes, I guarantee you an above level 12 challenge can await you there.
Hmm
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Thanks all :)
It is a lot of work that is well reflected in the amount of fun it is - with over a hundred players and a further twenty GM crew running about in the time bound pressure cooker, not a day went by when I didn't wake up with a wall of questions, queries, and doubtful points - which I was happy to get involved with as I dig being really 'hands on'.
Things go wrong, things break, and with the highly detailed scrutiny that PbP allows for, we went through the scenario with a fine toothed comb and found all the bugs and errors in there, and it leads me to think that PbP is actually a great way to playtest a scenario - the time pressure is quite different, we can also afford attention to detail, and inconsistencies or ambiguities debated amongst the GM team.
Full credit to the writers of these specials though, they have been delivering some top shelf entertainment despite their word/page count restrictions, I just wish there was a way to conduct a continuous improvement process.
I think we ARE the continuous improvement process!
Thank you for a wonderful special, Shifty. I will be adopting a lot of what you did here to Cosmic Captive. You're a great mentor!
Hmm
