DM Kludde |
.
Pitbull |
Orc Dot
Pitbull |
The half orc woman yanks the chain of the small angry owlbear and growls "ASBO! Settle down, the magic GM Man hasn't spoken yet!" - the ornery owlbear growls and grumbles then settles down.
DM Kludde |
The reputable merchant and ally of the Society Aya Allahe paces one of the back rooms of Sharrowsmith’s Exports, a walled trade compound on the northern edge of Nantambu in the Mwangi Expanse.
“I wish I had more to offer,” Allahe apologizes before even presenting what information she has. “Nieford Sharrowsmith never truly retired from being a Pathfinder, even after he started this business. I think, in his mind, he was still the young adventurer that hiked through jungles and fought off troglodyte tribes. Sharrowsmith’s attitude changed over the last few months—I think he was concerned for his legacy and how history would remember him. Would it be for his discoveries or for the export business that dominated his later years? The answer, I fear, was unpalatable.
“It was no surprise when he packed up and left on an expedition. But that was months ago, and neither the Society nor I have heard from him since. Sharrowsmith has never left for this long without leaving some word as to his status or sending rather demanding missives about business decisions while he was waist-deep in some jungle bog. When my own contacts failed to turn up any useful information, I had no recourse but to go through his private notes.” Allahe motions to the mess of documents scattered about the office.
“What caught my eye was this translated rubbing. It appears to be the most recent piece of a very large puzzle Sharrowsmith was researching and indicated that he may be somewhere in the Bandu Hills. Traders from Fort Bandu have confirmed that he paid the garrison a visit, but that’s where my trail ran cold. Something happened out there, and Praetor Sylien—Fort Bandu’s commander—refuses to correspond with me on the matter despite knowing how close Nieford and I are. All I received in response was that Nieford had ‘done enough damage for one lifetime,’ and that if I wanted to discuss the matter further I would need to go to Fort Bandu in person.” Exasperatedly, Allahe runs a hand across
her forehead and turns her distant stare out the window. “I cannot shutter the business and travel hundreds of miles on the off chance that the praetor can help; the company would fall apart. I’m hoping that you will be able to go in my stead, speak with the praetor personally to learn what has befallen Sharrowsmith and help him return.”
Game on! K(geo) for knowledge on the Bandu Hills, K(local) or Prof(merchant/miner) for knowledge on the Bandu mines (Exchange members have a +2 bonus)
And, as always, you can ask your questions.
Holman Nimblefingers |
Knowledge (Local, Exchange): 1d20 + 10 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 10 + 2 = 26
"Okay, so it seems like this Sylien character doesn't much care for Sharrowsmith, eh? Any clues as to what might have set him off? Seems to me that he's been offended somehow. Did you find anything in Sharrowsmith's notes that dealt with any sort of violation of tribal lands or artifacts?"
Pitbull |
Know Geography 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20
Know Local 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (19) + 2 = 21
"Offered enough" the Half Orc woman grunts at Aya by way of reply.
The broad shouldered young woman is unmistakenly half-orcish, the human side has given her a more gentle face - almost handsome, but her bearing and manner appear to have been gifted by the orcs, her black flinty eyes appear as hard as coffin nails and her voice rough and gravelly.
Her armour is of mottled hues of rust red, dark greys, and black. All of her equipment looks to be in good repair and well maintained - though of an unpleasant and orcish design of pure utilitarianism, the only dash of colour being a subdued Chelish emblem in blood red on the shoulder of her jerkin.
By her side is an ornery halfling sized owlbear on a strong leather leash, the owlbear wears protective leather barding of a similar hue to the half orc, but the armour is embedded with sharp spikes that look like they'd be vicious in a grapple.
"Who'd he take on the expedition with him? What sorta trouble could he start in Fort Bandu? He a gambler? Drinker? womaniser? Why is this Praetor such a pr**k and not talking?" - the questions are asked without any eye contact made - the half orc is busy looking at papers and documents as though there could be more clues, simply making her way around the room "He have any clothes here?" she finally asks directly.
Perception 1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 9 + 2 = 22
Scavenger - Perception checks to find hidden objects
DM Kludde |
Aya is taken aback by Pitbull's reply for a moment, then looks on as the half-orc rummages through the documents, offering a reply when the Praetor comes up I know the Praetor only by reputation. The grandson of an old elven explorer, he’s served the garrison for decades, though I hear he’s mostly retired now. My business associates say he is a fair and very pragmatic man, one who respects hard facts and truth. His being dismissive of my request sounds uncharacteristic.”
For some reason, Sharrowsmith travelled alone. He always did in his youth. But with his bad back, he needs teamsters to carry equipment and scribes to help with field research. It’s quite out of character for Sharrowsmith to embark without staff, nowadays. I think he felt like he had something to prove.
Grimaldus |
Grimaldus is a 20 year old, 7 foot tall human with an exceptionally athletic build. He wears magical Half Plate armor with a flowing cloak and carries a 5 foot long adamantine greatsword over his shoulder, a heavy flail on his belt, and a masterwork darkwood composite shortbow that most people can't even draw...
"What can you tell us of this larger puzzle Sharrowsmith was unraveling? And can we see the rubbing? Perhaps these will tell us what he was looking for, or perhaps why he has aggravated the praetor."
Grim nods in acknowledgement to Marra and Jhalan, as they had traveled here together from their last mission. The gnome and Halfling seemed particularly small standing next to this giant of a man. And while the female half-orc would be a strong ally in a fight, Grim looked a bit concerned about her 'pet'...
DM Kludde |
Thanks to the rocky terrain and bright sun, the daytime temperature of the Bandu Hills can sometimes reaches lethal extremes. Fort Bandu is the only major settlement for miles, and serves to protect the prospectors in the region.
Regional threats include the often-hostile Bandu tribes, ghouls and groups of kobolds, goblins, and hobgoblins. The one of the highest points in the Bandu Hills is Mount Nakyuk, famed for the veins of gold under it several centuries ago.
Stories of ghoul activity in the Bandu Hills also include confused accounts of ghoul- like creatures that scholars call festrogs—horrific flesh-eating undead that walk upright but run on all fours.
The Bandu Hills remain rich in gold, silver, and gems, despite several centuries of colonial mining. Prospectors arrive from throughout the Inner Sea region to seek their fortune. The local Mwangi tribes often retaliate violently.
Most of the larger mining operations belong to the Deeptreasure Mining Company, which has dominated the local industry for nearly three centuries. Their one- time competitors, the Gold Crown Company, are now better known for shipping and export services.
Deeptreasure agents are always on the lookout for independent miners, whom they bully away from promising claims. A Deeptreasure representative in Fort Bandu is offering a bounty for information regarding any promising unoccupied (or ill-defended) mines.
I don't know much about the rubbing. Sharrowsmith’s notes say the rubbing was made by miners in the Bandu Hills over sixty years ago, and the rubbing found its way
to him through auctions he frequented. Whatever he read there, it lit a fire under him.”
Pitbull |
"Bad back, old, alone" Pitbull notes out loud "Slower walking" - she then gets back to rummaging about.
Hopefully we get some good background info off those rolls! Pitbull is looking for any articles of clothing that could be good for getting Sharrowsmiths scent off
Marra follower of Dawnflower |
K(local): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24
K(Geo): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18
Marra comments excitedly "The wild and woolly life of frontier miners! There are hundreds of stories of people heading into the wild jungles looking for the mother load, fighting off angry natives, clam jumpers and avoiding hostile take over by large mining company such as the Deeptreasure Mining. Most who make it back are no richer than when they set off, they are lucky just to make it back. A very few do strike it rich! Still it would be exciting to poke around abandon mines that are haunted by the restless spirits of the miners who poured their life into the mines."
Jhalan |
The Keleshite is in his late twenties, wearing loose clothing typical of Qadiran origin and a metallic armor covering his chest. A turban covers his head, revealing his piercing blue eyes, aquiline nose and well-tended short beard. His face has already known too many hardships, as his many scars testify. He is quite muscular and has the strong hands of one who has worked since the earliest days of his childhood. A tall, shafted weapon called a fauchard rests next to him, the blade bearing many engravings and arabesque dedicated to the Dawnflower.
When one of his companions shows up, he extends his hand and introduces himself. "Well met, I am Jhalan Aajav, blade of the Dawnflower and righter of wrongdoings. I understand we are to work together on this mission. Grimaldus, Marra, 'tis a pleasure to team up with you again."
Knowledge (geography): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25
Knowledge (local): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28
"This rubbing mentions dwarven culture as well as the word "Sky". Any chance Sharrowsmith has done some reading on dwarven sky citadels before he left?"
DM Kludde |
You've got all the information you can gain from the knowledge rolls. For the record, APL is 4.17, so we're solidly in the high tier.
Pitbull |
The half-orc looks up as the introductions and greetings are taking place, "Pitbull. This is Asbo" she gestures at the Owlbear.
She gets back to rifling through the place casually whilst talking "Bandu Hills, hot as the Hells up there, lots of sun and lots of rock. Fort Bandu about the only safe village. Bandu tribes, ghouls and groups of kobolds, goblins, and hobgoblins up there too. High point is Mount Nakyuk, famed for fat load of gold under it ages ago. Story around the campfire is ghouls in the Bandu Hills but also include confused accounts of ghoul- like creatures called 'festrogs'—horrific flesh-eating undead that walk upright but run on all fours"
"Wear loose clothing, keep your head cool, keep your holy water handy and your blade handier"
"Wonder if he went to Nakyuk then, looking for Dwarf gold?"
I assume we manage to find some sort of article of clothing or personal item to get Sharrowsmiths scent off?
Her searching comes to an end as the Owlbear begins grumbling and squawking impatiently.
"I'm ready"
Marra follower of Dawnflower |
With the introductions starting, the female halfling in studded leather not even 3 feet tall with two small scimitars sheathed across her back give a formal bow "Where are my manners, I am Marra also a follower of Sarenrae the dawnflower. I have trained in her monastery in the art of dervish battle dance and bardic arts. It is an honor to adventure with you on such an exciting mission! Festrogs sound absolutely horrible, I hope we get to see one. "
Pitbull |
"I track, used to track for Belkzen warbands as a Scout, now making my own gold tracking for Chelaxian nobles and the Pathfinders - better gold, better work. Just need the smell of who we are tracking, keen to move soon as the trail only gets colder"
Pitbull and Asbo ready to depart.
"We're off to heat and hills, so proper clothes and maybe some climbing gear and ropes and grapples. If we going near mines will need pick and shovels, I have some. Will be camped outdoors, bring a shelter" she finishes, once again to no one in particular.
Holman Nimblefingers |
Holman, only slightly taller than Marra, with blue eyes, blonde hair, and a bandolier of daggers across his chest, nods at Pitbull. "Glad you were here to let us know that, for sure." He makes a note to purchase hot weather gear before they leave.
Pitbull |
Pitbull looks up a little surprised at the Halflings comment of appreciation, as though this is an uncommon occurrence; she blinks a couple of times "You're welcome".
DM Kludde |
Marra, didn't you already see some at the gloomspires?
Once the meeting is wrapped up, and the adventurers have had some time to buy supplies at the many stalls at Sharrowsmith's Exports, they journey south. The route involves traveling by boat down the Vanji River, then switching to canoes to paddle up the Little Vanji and Dzimmi Rivers. Finally, the party winds through several of the lower Bandu Hills through a pass to Fort Bandu.
The fort is a small frontier settlement surrounded by high stone walls located on the northern edge of Sargava. Within the fort’s walls, dozens of mining companies maintain outposts out of pavilion tents. The fort also holds a garrison of soldiers.
The party meets a cold reception. For some reason, stall suddenly close as the party draws near, nobody seems to be willing to talk, and every now and then a muttering of "troubles of late" can be heard.
Pitbull |
Pitbull and Asbo visibly defer to the other party members, awaiting one of them making some form of interruption and introduction. She spends the time keeping her eyes open.
Grimaldus |
WIth the frosty reception the party receives, Grim decides it's a good time to use his association with the Adeptes Astartes for a little intel gathering... He walks directly up to the nearest town guard or soldier, and in his 'I'm in command and you will obey me' voice learned from his years at the military academy, says, "I am Sergeant Grimaldus of the Silver Dragon chapter of the Adeptes Astartes. I require an audience with your Praetor. You will lead me to him."
If the soldier hesitates, he will add a stern "Now, mister..."
(If needed - Intimidate: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17)
Pitbull |
Pitbull sits back, curious to see how the scene plays out - not pushing the boundaries of being an Orc-blood with a pet monster whilst standing at the gates of a human settlement.
Cacumattus Diuberr |
Sorry I'm so late to the party...
Cacumattus keeps to the shadows, trying to go unnoticed enough to overhear anything that might indicate what is going on in the town.
Stealth: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (4) + 12 = 16
Marra follower of Dawnflower |
Marra buys clothing appropriate to the heat, before leaving the exchange. The halfling does recall something like a Festrogs in the gloomspires.
Hot weather outfit 8gp
Once at Fort Bandu, Marra sarcastically comments "Friendly place."
The halfling waits to see how Grimaldus's actions go over.
DM Kludde |
I will take you to the Praetor. The soldier's statement shows little in terms of confirmation or admiration. He escorts the party to the praetor’s office, a modest and utilitarian space comprised of several tables and a handful of half-stocked bookshelves. A war table featuring a map of the Bandu Hills region sits prominently in the center of the room, and three tall windows nearby let in a great deal of natural light.
Praetor Sylien is in mid-conversation with a lanky Garundi man in fine attire. Their conversation stops abruptly, and the praetor’s guest disdainful glares at the latest arrivals. “Pathfinders. I shouldn’t be surprised. Only your organization would have the gall to so brazenly show its face when you’ve already caused so much damage.”
See handout for images
Pathfinders,” the praetor’s voice lacks the contempt of his guest, as if trying
to subtly apologize for his tone. “This is Amersanus Valacosti of the Aspis Consortium. We’ve been discussing the troubles Fort Bandu has faced of late—troubles caused by your organization. I was unwilling to disclose the details to Mistress Allahe by courier, but now that you have arrived, I feel it pertinent to explain the nature of Fort Bandu’s... misgivings. Venture-Captain Sharrowsmith came through here some months ago, gathering supplies and information before setting off on an expedition into the hills. There, he roused the local kobold tribes and angered them enough that they now actively raid our settlements and mining operations.
“Amersanus Valacosti and I were discussing how the Aspis Consortium may be able to help repair the damage your Society has inflicted on the people of Fort Bandu. Now that you’ve arrived, perhaps we can have a more balanced mediation. Your Pathfinder Society has a damaged reputation in the Bandu Hills, so I ask you state your business and why you think I should allow you to even so much as stay within the fort’s walls. What knowledge do you have of this land and its people that could prevent this situation from deteriorating further? I will only entertain questions regarding Sharrowsmith once I’m assured that providing you information will not further endanger my charges.”
Marra follower of Dawnflower |
Marra steps in front of Grimaldus before the big fellow has chance to use his charming Sargent personality on the pair, "Gentlemen, if the Pathfinders have caused trouble, It's only right that we be given a chance to right any wrongs. Since this is the first we have heard of trouble, perhaps if you were to explain what Sharrowsmith did to rile the kobolds it may offer a path of remediation?"
diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27
k(local): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21 what is know about Amersanus Valacosti of the Aspis Consortium
k(local?): 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26 what is know about the local kobold tribes. {if not local then Marra has +6 with all knowledge types}
Pitbull |
Pitbull grumbles the earlier information about the Bandu hills into Marra's ear as well.
Holman Nimblefingers |
Holman nods at Marra's tack, then turns to the others. "Gentlemen. We are not here only to find our wayward member, but also as representatives of the Society, hoping to put our relationships aright once more. Please let us know how we can proceed."
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25
Grimaldus |
Grim is happy to let his companions handle the more delicate negotiations. His skills were in command and battle, and he usually did his convincing with the greatsword he carried... So he is happy enough to stand behind his companions and maintain his stone-faced expression. Only his eyes moved, taking in details about the Praetor's office, the Praetor himself, and the Aspis Consortium agent.
DM Kludde |
What I need is a K(geo, nature, or local) check, or a survival check to demonstrate you are familiar with the area.
Valacosti grows increasingly incensed as the Pathfinders explain their case. “Sharrowsmith professed an intimate understanding of the region and its delicate balance of power as well, and behold the results: dozens dead, dozens more missing, kobolds attacking our mining operations, and people living in fear of the next raid. Praetor, with all due respect, you cannot allow these Pathfinders to exacerbate an already delicate situation.”
The praetor remains patient. “Amersanus makes a good point. Sharrowsmith was a well read and knowledgeable man, yet he disappeared in these jungles and caused damage we’re only beginning to feel the impact of thanks to the local kobold tribes. How is your expedition different? Do you have the necessary strength to survive in this environment where so many others cannot? Show me that those weapons and spell books you carry are not just for show.”
[ooc]Oen of you should make a flashy display of arcane or martial prowess. That can be a caster level check, or some combat maneuvre, or a spell craft check
Jhalan |
Didn't Marra roll those? Or do you need more checks? Knowledge (local), aid another: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (4) + 9 = 13
Jhalan acts as an advisor or sorts to Marra, pointing out elements that she might have left out concerning kobolds.
-Posted with Wayfinder
Pitbull |
Pitbull simply watches on, not getting involved and overstepping her welcome.
Marra follower of Dawnflower |
For a moment Marra thinks Grimaldus's methods would have been more effective, but then she steps forward in all of her 3 foot towering halfling self using prestidigitation to put a chill in the air and smell of brimstone, "I assure you that our group of pathfinders are more than capable of handling ourselves with what ever needs to be done. In addition we are well versed in the local tribes and customs. It occurs to me you don't know what has happen to Sharrowsmith and you don't know what has the kobold riled up, but out of ignorance you are assuming Sharrowsmith is the cause."
Marra's local knowledge check {26 + aid } about local kobold tribes from the last post should apply
spellcraft to look impressive : 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13
While speaking the halfling feels they are holding something back for some reason, so she tries to read their motives.
sense motives: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18
DM Kludde |
Yes, Marra's rolls on the kobold tribes are great.
“Is this supposed to make an impression?” Valacosti is quick to dismiss the display of power. “If you think this situation can be solved at the point of a sword or by brandishing some hedge wizardry, you’re as ignorant as your predecessor.These Pathfinders will rush headlong into the jungle and slaughter the kobold tribe, creating a power vacuum among the other tribes and only worsen this disaster.”
Again, the praetor tries to remain impartial, though it is clear his patience is waning. “Once more I find myself seeing reason in Valacosti’ words. Strength of arms is all well and good, but this is a situation that also requires a certain amount of finesse. How do I know I trust you to handle this situation with a level head and a delicate touch when necessary?”
You can still make a 'display of prowess' to improve the roll. For the next challenge, I need a good Bluff, Diplomacy, K(History) or Sleight of hand check.
Visibly frustrated, Valacosti appeals one last time to Sylien. “Praetor. I implore you, send these Pathfinders back from where they came from. This is neither the place nor the time for their presence. For the sake of the people of Fort Bandu, do not let them worsen this situation.”
With reluctance, the praetor acknowledges the Pathfinders with a slow nod. Then, after a brief glance to Valacosti, he appears ready to make his decision.
I need a final diplomacy check to convince the Praetor. I'm counting the first roll that doesn't say 'aid'
Pitbull |
Sorry, missed the earlier reference to CMD as thought the spoiler was related to those doing the Know checks :p
Pitbull smiles and draws her Falchion, gleaming silver edge in stark contrast to the rest of the camouflaging soot covering it - taking a piece of fruit off the Praetors table, she throws it over her shoulder, then spins and slices it in two - but bats the separating pieces at the complaining Valacosti
CM 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27
...some precision and a artful execution.
"Sorry" she grunts, unconvincingly.
She wont be doing any Diplomacy any day soon, you'd be safer letting the Owlbear talk
Grimaldus |
Grim nods approvingly at Pitbull's display. Yes, she would be very valuable if things got ugly out there in the wilds - or in this office...
In response to the praetor's comment about finesse, Grim simply offers words of wisdom from his training, "For to win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill."
Jhalan |
Can't help you there, Jhalan is terrible at all those rolls except CMB, which has already been done.
Jhalan nods appreciatingly at Pitbull's show of skill, but remains otherwise silent, knowing that his poor way with words would assuredly be more harmful than helpful to the Society's cause.
DM Kludde |
The Praetor seems to be impressed by the skill displayed by Pitbull, though he does his best to hide it behind a sheen of annoyance at the split fruit.
The series of successes help in making the diplomacy check easier.
Pitbull |
Pitbull looks at Marra to do the talking.
Cacumattus Diuberr |
Cacumattus steps forward and addresses the Praetor. "Sir, I assure you we have a great deal of experience in handling... delicate matters. Why, in my recent travels alone, I have negotiated with lawyers, discussed matters of state with nobles, infiltrated a gnoll tribe..." He goes on to list a series of increasingly unlikely exploits.
Bluff: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10 D'oh
Pitbull |
Pitbull sniggers unhelpfully at the Gnomes misstep, seeing it the height of humour as the stories get more outlandish. She then tries to bottle it, but then, even the Owlbear seems to be chuckling.
Holman Nimblefingers |
Sleight of Hand (Knife Master): 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 12 + 2 = 19
Holman pulls a couple of daggers out and tosses them around, making them appear and disappear as if by magic. "We can definitely have a 'delicate touch' when occasion calls for it..."
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24
He puts the daggers away, then speaks seriously. "We will do whatever is necessary to repair the damage allegedly" he peers at Valacosti, "done by Sharrowsmith. You can rely upon our discretion and ability, Praetor."