DM Kludde |
So there you all are. Pathfinders. You just went through the basic training, and some of you even got to some initial fieldwork. All itching to get started, here you are in the city of Absalom, to be precise: in the office of Ambrus Valsin, the venture-captain in charge of daily operations in and around the Grand Lodge. He greets you curtly and motions you to sit down.
“All right, Pathfinders! Listen up. I know you are new recruits eager to make names for yourselves in the organization, but first we need to make sure you are up to snuff and won’t get yourself killed out there. I have a number of small assignments for you and your team, and it would be best if you could finish them before the day’s end."
“Every day we get some doe-eyed hopeful or some sniveling bootlicker willing to do anything to join up with the Pathfinders. Most of them are good kids, but not all of them have the salt to make it in a world like this. It’s rough out there and I’m not just talking about the ruins, tombs, and wilderness Pathfinders find themselves in on missions. We’ve got people who look down their noses at us, folks who think we squander our resources, and agents who want to take everything we have collected.This wealth of knowledge and these items of lore make us the most powerful organization on the planet. That said, since we are fractured and widespread, it’s difficult for that power to light on anything for too long. For every friend of the Society, there are two enemies."
“Your first mission, to test your mettle and loyalties, sends you to meet a few people important to the Society living here in Absalom. These are other venture-captains or close allies of our organization, so follow their orders as you would mine. I’ve prepared a list of things I want you to do. They’re not arranged in any particular order of importance, but I want them all completed as quickly as possible. Only report to me once you complete them all. Included in the envelope you hold in your hands is the list, complete with the name of your contact, and directions to the meeting location.”
With that he hands you a list of tasks:
- A man named Guaril Karela runs a curio shop in the Docks called the Pickled Imp. Go to him and fill his request as a favor to the Society. I believe it has something to do with a set of rare books.
- Ollysta Zadrian requested aid and is expecting you at the Temple of the Shining Star in the Ascendant Court. She needs someone to deliver a parcel of medicine and curatives to a needy orphanage and verify the character of the recipient.
- Visit the offices of Osirian nobleman Dremdhet Salhar in the Wise Quarter. The Pathfinder Society needs to obtain permission to delve the Salhar ancestral vaults beneath Sothis. He has made a verbal agreement, and your visit makes it official. You will receive an official charter and detailed maps. Do not embarrass the Society in this matter.
- Chelish Paracountess Zarta Dralneen possesses an item loaned from the Vaults. Meet with her in her estate in the Ivy District and retrieve the item in her possession.
Miette Thermogauge |
In her most sincere manner possible:
"Aye aye Cap't!
While sarcastic in nature Miette also has trust issues:
Sense motive: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5
And just because this whole situation is suspicious:
Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17
Aldaeth |
A large male, clearly of Celestial heritage (working on description so bear with me) bashes his fist against the all to common Four Mirror Armour that some how has flooded the market and driven down its price.
It will be as you say.
Hmmm.... , he says reading aloud from the list.
- A man named Guaril Karela runs a curio shop in the Docks called the Pickled Imp. Go to him and fill his request as a favor to the Society. I believe it has something to do with a set of rare books.
- Ollysta Zadrian requested aid and is expecting you at the Temple of the Shining Star in the Ascendant Court. She needs someone to deliver a parcel of medicine and curatives to a needy orphanage and verify the character of the recipient.
- Visit the offices of Osirian nobleman Dremdhet Salhar in the Wise Quarter. The Pathfinder Society needs to obtain permission to delve the Salhar ancestral vaults beneath Sothis. He has made a verbal agreement, and your visit makes it official. You will receive an official charter and detailed maps. Do not embarrass the Society in this matter.
- Chelish Paracountess Zarta Dralneen possesses an item loaned from the Vaults. Meet with her in her estate in the Ivy District and retrieve the item in her possession.
He thinks and then says May as well start the day on a positive note methinks. Does anyone have any issues with helping Orphans?
Nijena Jaś |
A tall woman, her own celestial heritage announced by the slight metallic sheen to her bronzed skin, and the dull gold halo that floats above her head, reads the list quietly.
I concur comrade, we should look to the children first. They are the among the most beleaguered, and often the most innocent, of Absolom's citizens.
She touches the small wooden medallion that hangs from a simple leather throng around her neck.
I am ready to leave whenever the rest of you are. She smiles widely, her eyes shining. Today will be a good day!
Frunobulax |
The quiet half-orc leans back in his chair as he listens to the different tasks being read aloud. He makes a sound that could best be described as a growl as he agrees with the others.
"Yes...orphans must be helped. Delivering medicine should be simple enough."
He turns to the others, "And I shall do my best to root out any flaws in the character of the person that receives the medicines."
DM Kludde |
Miette is suspicious of her new employers, but garners little of his intentions. Her instinct tell her only she is vein tested. Looking around the office of Ambrus are small items and curiosa. A creepy wooden doll, with a chip of obsidian stuck where normally the heart would be, sits on his desk, probably a remnant of some older mission.
Agreeing on visiting the orphanage first, the adventurers head off to the Ascendant Court, the heart of the bustling city of Absalom. The heroes arrive at the temple of the Shining Star, where they are directed to Ollysta Zadrain, paladin of Sarenrae. Ollysta acts and speaks with a regal air, graceful but stern, striding forward as she addresses the heroes in a strong voice:
“Thank the light of Sarenrae you have arrived! I knew Ambrus would come through for us in the Silver Crusade. I desperately need you to bring medicine to an orphanage and let me know if the headmistress, Gilga Baltwin, is deserving of our charity. Since our quest began, the needy have clamored for our aid, and I suspect some are abusing our generosity. It may sound cruel, but there are plenty of dishonest people out in the world eager for easy gold.”
“Do you know of the Silver Crusade? After discovering so many factions splintered the Society, a number of us banded together to proliferate the cause of charity and kindness using the Society’s resources. As it is said, ‘The Dawn brings new light’ and I’ve made it my life’s work to use our recent darkness to bring a new light to the world and to the Pathfinder Society.”
”I apologize for straying off point. Will you bring this parcel of medicine to Auntie Baltwin’s Home for Recovery in the Eastgate district?”
Aldaeth |
It will be as you say, Aldaeth says warmly, and yes, I am a recent... well, 'Convert', you may say to the Silver Crusade and its goals'.
He turns to the others.
I have a knack for getting others to chat to me, and normally I can get to the truth of the matter much faster than others when it comes to rumors and so on. If you all assisted me in looking friendly and speaking kindly words as we worked the neighborhood nearby I think we can get some clues as to the character of this Auntie Baldwin before we meet her face to face.
However its your call and I am also happy to listen to your suggestions...
Nijena Jaś |
Nijena Jaś nods her head while Zadrain speaks. The goals of the Silver Crusade are my own, and it was with great pride that I joined their ranks, she says with a small bow to the other paladin.
I have been told that I can be quite intimidating myself, should anyone need convincing to do the right thing during our mission, she says, turning towards Aldaeth. But until such time as my glare or my sword is needed, I think we can try a few smiles and kind words.
Miette Thermogauge |
Looking up at the three righteous big types Miette shrugs, saying:
Sure...you three distract and talk, I'll sneak and "learn" throwing a wink a few things.
Anywho, orphans is up me ally. Did I tell you I was an orphan once as well? Found meself growing up underneath all this and then...Wait! Stop making me talk!
Folding her arms, Miette stands as defiantly and tight lipped as she can, glowering up at Nijena, Fruno and Aldaeth.
Nijena Jaś |
Come now Miette, we are your comrades in arms, Nijena says with a smile. You can trust us enough to tell us something of your childhood.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26
Frunobulax |
Oh wow, a warpriest, a paladin and an inquisitor...oh my.
"Speak or do not, small one. I care not for details of your personal history that you choose to keep to yourself. I reserve my judgments for those that fight against the Society."
The half-orc turns to Zadrain. "Fear not, we shall bring this Gilga Baltwin to justice, should we find any air of misdeeds." Fruno pats the handle of the greataxe slung to his back to add emphasis to his words.
Aldaeth |
Now now... Lets not be judgemental - she has set up this orphanage after all. She may do good work. As for your secrets little friend, share only that which you will.
Let us be off unless anything else is needed.
Miette Thermogauge |
Thank you Aldaeth
"Sure thing pretty lady we'll chat along the way!"**insert rambling background chatter here
"Relax big ugly ax guy lets see what Gilga has to offer before we lops the head off."
While walking towards the Orphange and chatting to anyone who will listen Miette nonchalantly loads her crossbow.
DM Kludde |
As short introduction later, and the adventurers are starting to get to know each other. The next thing we see, our adventurers are arriving at the orphanage. Have they taken the time along the route to gather information, or to delve into their own knowledge of the local population?
If that's the case, make a Diplomacy(gather info) or Knowledge(Local) check and I'll tell you what you learned
Nearly swarming with cats and children, this fine upper-class home appears to be clean and in good condition considering the number and ages of its inhabitants. Three young boys shoot marbles in the dirt near the side porch, and inside strewn toys and more cats lie about on the floors. A few children take care of chores, while coughs and sneezes softly erupt from the children’s dormitories upstairs.
"...cheee!"
DM Kludde |
Master Trebb Bonto lives across the street from Baltwin. He's a retired builder and has nothing but nice things to say of her: Lady Baltwin, yes, he murmurs, recalling tales of tea and games, and sitting on the porch. When pressed a bit, he lets slip she often cheats at games, though. And every now and then, some shady characters come by. He says they whisper inlet ear, then give her small bags - might have been money. Otherwise a fine lady indeed he quickly adds.
Nijena Jaś |
Nijena chats with Miette en route, listening with great interest to her stories. When the party arrives at the orphanage, she shows great interest in the marbles game, and attempts to spark some conversation with the boys, asking them about life in the orphanage, the headmistress, and so forth.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20
Some healing sounds useful, and I won't have lay-on-hands till level 2!
Frunobulax |
Fruno raises an eyebrow as Miette shares her gathered intel. "Well...perhaps questioning others is not such a bad idea after all."
Once the group arrives at the orphanage, the half-orc approaches a group of children. Fruno smoothes out his hair, puts on his best smile and points to one of the children, calling out, "You there! Small child. I must speak with you!"
Fruno walks rather stiffly to the child he has pointed out.
"Please, do not be alarmed. My name is Frunobulax and I work for the Pathfinder Society. I have a question regarding your headmistress, Madame Baltwin. What are your thoughts on her? Do you find her to be a loving and caring caretaker? Please answer honestly, as this is very important." (I imagine when he speaks, he has the monotonous cadence of someone reading cue cards very stiffly, if that helps)
Diplomacy: 1d20 ⇒ 16
Aldaeth |
Finally Aldaeth tries to dig out information, which he can do in half the time... Allowing him some time hopefully aid another or watch the orphanage.Trait allows Gather Info in half time - GM can think on it and roll if he wants.
Diplo gather info - 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26
He is friendly, easy to like and the neighbours likely find themselves warming to this young man who looks pure and loving...
DM Kludde |
The neighbours Trost and Tavelle Anthos are tired of the noises the kids make, and the retinue of cats Baltwin keeps. Luckily, she sends those kids off into town during the day, so we can get some hours of peace and quiet.
Auntie is nice. the first child answers.
- Yes The second childs agrees. She makes nice food.
And she tells fun stories at bedtime
- We have to help out some..
No, don't tell her that.
- Why?
Auntie told us not to
The children stare at Frunobulax, and finally say Wot?
Haha, that man ate a word book.
Aldaeth |
Aldaeth wanders into the yard with the kids and asks questions about where some of the kids go doing the town during the day.
As its half time to gather info he'll ask the kids for info
Gather info 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21
Again he seems to have natural warmth and rapore with those he works with, smiling and chuckling over their childish games while asking questions of his own.
Miette Thermogauge |
Plopping down next to the three boys Miette feigns great interest in the marbles game:
Yay, I like games, boys do you like games? I was abandoned when I was little but learned how to see in the dark...oooh"
"Tell me more of what you do during the day! That sounds like lots of fun!"
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24
DM Kludde |
Miette and Aldaeth are striking a chord with the children, who are very happy to tell what they're doing during the day "Yes, she sends us out. We have to help the grown-ups. Dig in the gardens, and paint things and carry bucket of coal. Sometimes I'm very tired. But it's good that we can help," one child cheerfully relates. There's no mention of the children getting paid anything, other than that Baltwin takes care of her.
"What, who are you talking to there. Come one, shoo, go play somewhere else. What did I say about talking to strangers?" an old woman interrupts the conversation. "Who are you, then?"
DM Kludde |
See the map for a portrait of the woman
Aldaeth |
Good day to you! Such happy children here... Would you be Auntie Baldwin? If so we've some supplies for you from the Temple of the Shinning Star and a few questions. May we come in?
Frunobulax |
Frunobulax is unmoved by the woman's appearance. (Though she does seem to have a case of what we call meth-mouth in Northern Nevada) She appears almost no different from other humans.
They all look the same... The half-orc thinks to himself.
As the war priest inquires of Madame Baltwin, Frunobulax will carefully study her, watching her facial expressions and body language as she responds to the party's questions.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25
DM Kludde |
Ah, but you should've told me right away. Do come in. Some tea perhaps?
It is quite clear to Frunobulax that she is somewhat unsettled, and very uncomfortable with seeing strangers talk to the children. In his view, this isn't so much about the children as about Auntie Baltwin herself.
A fine sheen of sweat on the skin, broken blood vessels in the eyes and nose, shaking hands. This woman must drink a lot...
Blf: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
SMo: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27
DM Kludde |
yes, that should be possible
-Posted with Wayfinder
Aldaeth |
Heal 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 2 = 12
Well now... that's interesting. A drinker it seems. When I took holy orders, never thought I'd end up as an investigator, he thinks, trying to remain impassive and pleasant.
Can you tell us more about your organisation you run here and the good that you are doing?
DM Kludde |
Ayntie guides the adventurers into a living room with large, comfortable, but worn-out chairs, one particularly so. Just sit down here she says, treating the adventurers with different levels of respect. She mostly acts defiantly, as if to challenge the adventurers. To Miette, she is particularly condescending - Miette is unsure as to whether Auntie confuses Miette with a small child. Yes, yes, great deal of work, you know nothing of it. I take these children in, then with good rest and care nurse them back to health. Been doing it for years.
Auntie then cuttles off to the kitchen. Keeping a close eye on her, Fruno sees her put on a kettle, prepare tea, then whip out a bottle and put a good slosh of something in one of the cups.
DM Kludde |
Of course, yes
Miette quickly notices an empty bottle of whiskey next to the most worn-out chair. A particular fine whiskey, too.
Nijena Jaś |
How did you come by such a, difficult, line of work? Nijena asks, leaning against the back of one of the chairs. Were you called to it by one of the gods?
Ayntie Baldwin's condescension towards Miette rubs Nijena the wrong way, and she pays vey close attention to the way in which the woman carries herself, the words she chooses, and how she says them.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9
Frunobulax |
Frunobulax will sit back and study the woman's response, watching for odd clearings of her throat, nervous hand wringing and other such signs of a liar.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9
But he cannot help but focus on what might be the contents of the bottle that she used to 'freshen up' one of the cups of tea.
DM Kludde |
I have always taken care of other. I grew up with eight younger brothers and sisters, you know. Teaches you a thing or two about caring. As for the feeding: the Shining Star is very generous in their support.
None of the adventurers get the feeling there is any untruth is what Auntie says, though Aldaeth gets the impression there might be more.
Aldaeth |
And your sourcing of finances'? This may cost a pretty penny... maybe we can take word of your needs back? How are you managing to fund all this?, Aldaeth asks, pursuing what he feels is a weak link.
DM Kludde |
It is what I said. Charity provides what we need, and otherwise we just scrape by.