bluedove's Pathfinders -Team Alpha [PFS] (Inactive)

Game Master bluedove

Current Encounter Map


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Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map

The door to the front door of the Inn opened abruptly and a skinny youth stumbles over the entryway as he is ushered, somewhat roughly, into the room by a hulking man with a sour look on his face. A woman with a similar expression and a quick, determined step follows behind them. She gives the innkeeper a brief smile and then surveys the room with a critical eye.
"Good, most of you have arrived. Please, take your seats where you find your names."
Namecards on a long table dictate your seats:
Team - Alpha
1)'Hellion' Svetlana Irriseni - Fighter 2
2) Li Shuo - Zen Archer/ Qinggong Monk 2
3) Jorag - Cleric 1
4) Frindlikh Ardig - Rogue 1
5) Otiophon - Paladin 1
6) Mujenbai Kayunga - Saurian Shaman 1
7) Marco Vail - Sage Sorcerer 1

Venture-Captain Hestia Themis, a small, unassuming woman of Taldan heritage with dark hair and eyes, holds a large sheaf of papers in her small hands and clears her throat. Her booming voice, the antithesis of her stature, fills the sprawling common room of the quaint Inn in the Taldan city of Cassomir.

“One of our own has been kidnapped. Pathfinder Cestis was taken just days ago from a relics auction in the Imperial Naval Shipyards, and we believe his disappearance to be related to the six dozen or so kidnappings of the last several months. Now that one of our own is missing, this has become a Society matter—something we’ll get to the bottom of.”
Themis gestures to a teenage boy standing beside her, who nervously regards his surroundings and sweats profusely, his thick brown hair matted and wet against his head.
“This is Nefti, the assistant to the biggest thorn in my side in Cassomir—an agent of the Aspis Consortium named Kafar.
Kafar is also missing, taken from the same relics auction along with Pathfinder Cestis and a dozen other citizens of Cassomir. Nefti was at the auction, saw where a small group of the kidnapped victims were taken, and his handlers in Cassomir have give us access to him so that he might guide us to our missing Pathfinder. If you happen to find Kafar...”
Themis grinds her teeth. “Let him go, per the agreement I’ve just made with his superiors. Your priority is Cestis, and I think Nefti can lead you to him. Any questions?”

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

Otiophon takes his assigned seat and listens to the unfolding mission. Kidnappings are not at all uncommon in seaport towns, as even one such as he knows, as sailors and citizens are conscripted to work on ships - or worse. Once out of port, it is the up to the 'laws' of the open sea. Time may be of the essence.

"What kinds of relics were being auctioned? Are any of them missing?"

"Is there something that ties the kidnap victims together? And is there some mutual enemy, perhaps, of the Consortium and the Society?"

"Did you see any of the kidnappers? Where did you see the victims taken?"

"Have the authorities been involved up to this point? Are ships being searched as they leave port?"

Sense Motive: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (3) - 2 = 1
Otiophon is empathetic with people, but does not read them well. Perhaps his judgement is too clouded by his own passions and motivations. Oti does, however, tap into his sense of evil itself to try to determine if any lies in the young fellow.

Detect Evil SLA. Not really expecting anything because of the HD limits.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

Similarly the beauty from the ice wastes sits herself down on a comfortable chair, only pausing briefly to wince at some small bodily pain. Whilst being pleasant enough to look at, there is a bit of a glacial coldness about her and her blue skinned tone, a sort of chilled 'otherness' that screams of an unearthly heritage. Her plain clothes, neat grooming, and lack of any obvious weapons give little clue as to what she 'does' - although there is little mistaking her athleticism, and the bruising and scars of a martial practitioner.

"Those are all good questions, reckon we need to know that stuff first"

The tiefling woman spends some time appraising Oti, part out of curiosity, part sizing him up. "Hellion, from the arena. Svetlana when not in the arena." she offers by way of introduction.

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

"Has anyone tried to track the victims? City makes it difficult, but not impossible, do you have anything with their scent for Unapp? Days ago is bad, why wait so long?" Mujenbai asks, arms folded, his rumbling voice holding a note of dissaproval.

Nodding to the assembled Pathfinders he adds,

"I am Mujenbai Kayunga, proud son of the heart of Garund, I know little of the ways of cities, but hope my talents may be of use. I am an able tracker, a keen eye, and have prepared curative magics. If violence is required myself and Unapp are prepared and fight well."

Grand Lodge

Male Half-orc Cleric of Kurgess 2 (Varisian Pilgrim)
Stats:
HP: 19, Initiative: +1, Perception: +3, Sense motive: +8, AC: 11 (T: 11, FF: 10), CMD: 12, Fort: 6, Refl: 2, Will: 7

Jorag quickly took a seat with the others, an excited gleam in his eyes. As the venture-captain relayed the information, he looked him companions over, seemingly oblivious to the womans words "Another interesting bunch, I wonder if it will always be like this?"

Not long before, Jorag had been on his first mission for the Pathfinders, the memories of those trials still fresh in his mind. Still, while he had gained a healthy respect for the reality of the profession, he had been itching for more. A lifetime of sports and wrestling, followed by coaching and tutoring of the same when he had grown too old himself, seemed dreadfully dull by comparison.

His age wasn't lost on anyone at the table, the excessive wrinkles on his face and his skin tone making it obvious even in spite of his orcish heritage. Still, apart from definitely being old, his age was hard to judge. His body bore testament to a long life of physical fitness and looked every bit as able as young men decades his juniors.

"A pleasure to meet you Mujenbai, and you Svetlana. Once we are introduced I have no doubt the same will be true for the rest of you." he looked around at everyone present, a pleasant smile on his lips and that same youthful twinkle in his eyes. "I am Jorag, a practitioner of the teachings of Kurgess, "The Strong Man", patron of athletes and competition. And what a fine selection he has seen fit to send my way." He laughed jovially, giving the more physically imposing amongst them an appraising look. "It shall be my honour to bestow his favour upon you and tend to the wounds that are sure to arise in whatever conflict awaits us."

After a short pause, he placed his hands in his lap, scooted to the edge of his seat and looked expectantly at those yet to name themselves. "So, who are the rest of you?"

Grand Lodge

Male Human Sage Sorcerer 3 | AC 11 (+4 mage armor) T 11 FF 10 | HP 20/20 | F +3 R +2 W +4 | Init +1 | Perception +1

Thanks for the compliment in the other thread, Otiophon!

Marco eyes his fellow Pathfinders as he finds his seat at the tables. These guys look like agents... maybe this is actually a field mission!

When VC Themis mentions the relics auction, though, he understands his purpose. Ahhhh... there it is. I hope they don't expect me to take over for Cestis. I can only identify minor items. Well, unless the VC actually tells me to wait at the inn, maybe I'll just presume to come along..."

He leans forward when VC Themis opens the floor to questions. "Hi Nefti. I'm Marco. Did Kafar have an interest in any particular item at the auction? Or did he have some specialty - like Azlanti or Thassilonian relics - that might help us figure out if there was something he was looking for? I wonder if that might be the connection between the two - both looking for the same item - that maybe brought them to the attention of a third party?"

"Otherwise, has anyone threatened Kafar recently? Besides the Society, of course. Hmmm... Nefti, have you ever seen or heard of Kafar meeting with Cestis? Or has Kafar had any engagements he's seemed hesitant to tell you about? I'm not sure how closely you were entrusted with his appointments..."

Diplomacy, if useful: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

Oti is oblivious to being 'sized-up' - a weakness on his part, perhaps, though he considers himself among compatriots, not competitors.

He gives a respectful nod and a firm but gentle handshake to each of his fellow Pathfinders. He has learned greatly from his time in Absalom and, particularly, in the Society, now greatly appreciating the strengths found in diversity, a diversity unthinkable in Kyonin, his homeland, and even in Greengold, what passes for a 'melting pot' in the elven homeland.

"'Svetlana' it will be then, I trust!" he says to his outsider 'opposite', though he is baffled about 'the arena' and the very notion of hostilities that are not directed in the fight against evil, directly or in training. Likewise, aren't Kurgess' considerable virtues only truly virtuous when applied against evil? But, modesty, if not subtlety, is a virtue of Oti's: I have much yet to learn.

Oti is more interested in his less martial-seeming companions: the sagacious fellow and the Garundi with his creature (which puzzles Oti greatly). Truly, one needs to know the enemy and find the enemy to fight the enemy.

Oti adds a reassuring glance and smile at Nefti, hoping to give aid by presence and his own word to Marco's familiar questioning of the nervous youth.
Diplomacy (Aid Another): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15


Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map
Otiophon wrote:

"What kinds of relics were being auctioned? Are any of them missing?"

"Is there something that ties the kidnap victims together? And is there some mutual enemy, perhaps, of the Consortium and the Society?"

"Did you see any of the kidnappers? Where did you see the victims taken?"

"Have the authorities been involved up to this point? Are ships being searched as they leave port?"
Detect Evil SLA. Not really expecting anything because of the HD limits.

"I cannot speak to relics involved in the auction itself. That was Cestis area of expertise. Considering most of the auction house's staff was taken at the same time, I'm not sure there is anyone can answer your question. The kidnappings started a few months ago. Cassomir has always had some trouble with its citizens going missing, but this was different. Only those associated with the Imperial Naval Shipyards were taken—shipwrights, carpenters, navy guards, and so on. This recent kidnapping, where they took Cestis, was brash and bold. They grabbed more than a dozen people in one attack, neglecting to grab Nefti. He is your witness to the kidnapping. Their mistake is our fortune.”

“The local authorities have been unable to recover the dozens of other Cassomir citizens who’ve gone missing in recent months. They don't have the manpower for that kind of search. I see no reason to believe they’ll get our Pathfinder back. Besides, Cestis has some... knowledge I’d rather the local authorities not get, and so I need you to extract him for me. Are you up to the task, Pathfinder?”
No evil detected, though the young man looks to be Chelaxian by descent.

Mujenbai Kayunga wrote:
"Has anyone tried to track the victims? City makes it difficult, but not impossible, do you have anything with their scent for Unapp? Days ago is bad, why wait so long?" Mujenbai asks, arms folded, his rumbling voice holding a note of disapproval.

"The waiting wasn't by choice, I can assure you. I have been looking for Cestis with the resources available to me here. Nefti's superiors were slow to contact us, and understandably so." She fishes a rumpled linen undershirt from her pack and offers it to the druid. "You are welcome to try, but don't get your hopes up."

Marco Vail wrote:


He leans forward when VC Themis opens the floor to questions. "Hi Nefti. I'm Marco. Did Kafar have an interest in any particular item at the auction? Or did he have some specialty - like Azlanti or Thassilonian relics - that might help us figure out if there was something he was looking for? I wonder if that might be the connection between the two - both looking for the same item - that maybe brought them to the attention of a third party?"
"Otherwise, has anyone threatened Kafar recently? Besides the Society, of course. Hmmm... Nefti, have you ever seen or heard of Kafar meeting with Cestis? Or has Kafar had any engagements he's seemed hesitant to tell you about? I'm not sure how closely you were entrusted with his appointments..."

Nefti straightens a bit from his somewhat nervous, sulky posture as Marco addresses him directly and politely. But he cuts his eyes at the hulking man in the room and juts out his chin as he answers,

"I don't think discussing my master's private business is part of the agreement." Hestia scowls at the youth and his impudence falters slightly. "All I remember for certain is that the relics at the auction were all of a religious nature. Nearly all of them were described as being important to the faith of one god or another." He shrugs, as if unconvinced this information is relevant at all.
"I jumped into the harbor and pretended to drown to escape the kidnappers, but I hid and saw where they took the captives. It's a place called 'The Inn of the Unlucky Sailor'. It makes sense too because the place has been closed for remodeling the past several weeks." He seems a bit more at ease and amiable after the Pathfinder's encouraging treatment.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

"As long as it doesn't get renamed the Unlucky Adventurer, it might get more remodeling than they planned for." the frosty maiden jokes gruffly. Svetlanas brows still remains a little fixed and tense, she seems pleasant enough, but is probably not the heaviest thinker.

"I'll go get my things and join you when we are ready to go take back our man" Svetlana starts readying to leave, but waits to ensure things are concluded.

Grand Lodge

Male Human Sage Sorcerer 3 | AC 11 (+4 mage armor) T 11 FF 10 | HP 20/20 | F +3 R +2 W +4 | Init +1 | Perception +1

"Oh! That was clever, Nefti! How'd we miss out on you? Can you tell us any more about the kidnappers? How many were there compared to the dozen that they kidnapped? How were they armed? Where did the kidnappers come from before they attacked? And were all 12 of the kidnapped taken to the Inn or just some of them? In what direction were the rest taken?"

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

Nefti seems Chelaxian... I suppose that makes sense, as the Corporation is Chelaxian, but Cheliax is also known for slavery and for its sea power, hence captives from a naval yard. There are several possible motives right there, and Nefti may (or may not) be involved himself.
I think that would all be common knowledge.

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

Mujenbai's brow furrows, and he moves towards the door,

"It would seem the faster we strike at this "Inn of the Unlucky Sailor", the better our chances of recovering hail hostages. We number enough to assail it from more than a single side, I favour a swift assault. Capture any that reside within and interrogate them once the building is secure. We may wish to discover known entry points first. What say the rest of you?"

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

"I appreciate the wisdom and directness of your words, Mujenbai. Lead on!"
When others are finished, of course.

On the way, Oti confides his suspicions about Nefti and about possible motives.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

Svetlana sidles in to converse with Opti, "I mark you as favouring the sword and shield approach, wearing heavy mail. I too prefer the heavier armours, but fight with a weapon affording me reach and prefer some space, perhaps we can co-ordinate ourselves if it comes to fighting?"

"I know my job in the party, and that is to defend and to protect, I will try check my temper, I struggle but I try, however should you ever offer the line 'what I'd give for some Chelish Ale' I will smash in the face of the person you direct the comment to. That's our code yeah? You say that, I know to start hitting, and I'll hit as hard as I can"

Her pretty smile is a bit disarming.

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

"I will try, and I will remember the code. Fortunately, I normally don't drink, so there should be little chance for a misunderstanding."
This is my first martial character (at least, in PF), so we'll see how well the tactics go.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

"I don't drink much either, I find it leads to a lot of spilling of Chelish Ale" she half laughs.

No worries, just thought we might bear each others combat needs in mind, and likewise get an indication on when we might wish to start combat in certain circumstances :)

Grand Lodge

Male Half-orc Cleric of Kurgess 2 (Varisian Pilgrim)
Stats:
HP: 19, Initiative: +1, Perception: +3, Sense motive: +8, AC: 11 (T: 11, FF: 10), CMD: 12, Fort: 6, Refl: 2, Will: 7

"Before we all go charging off, might I have a moment with you all?" Jorag said, smiling expectantly at everyone and motioning them to come closer. "For me to truly grant you the favour of Kurgess, I must pray with you all a moment. It will guide his eye to you so that he may observe the competition we are about to begin." He held out his hands to the first ones to come close, bidding everyone join hands. "It will only take a moment. And dont worry, you do not need to worship Kurgess as I do, your trials will be all the reason he needs to watch over you."

The prayer was a silent affair, Jorag closing his eyes and occasionally mumbling something inaudible. No more than a minute passed before he opened his eyes and let go of the hands he was holding, slapping his own hands together and taking a deep breath "There we go, I too am ready now."

With a smile and a whistle, he followed the others.

Jorag established his Caravan Bond with anyone who participates.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

Svetlana participates, seeking to foster goodwill

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

"I do not know Kurgess, but if he can aide is and asks nothing in return it would seem churlish to refuse. Can you include Unapp in whatever ritual it is you perform?" Mujenbai says, scooping the oddly attired velociraptor up in one trunk like arm.

Sovereign Court

Skills:
Acr +11, App +8, Blf +3, Cli +7, Crf (Untr) +1, Crf (Wea) +6, Dip -1, Ddv +12 (Traps +13), Dsg -1, Esc +11, Fly +4, Itm +3, K(Local) +7, Prc +7, Pfm (Untr) -1, Rid +4, Ssm +4, Slh +11, Sth +11, Srv +0, Swi -3
Encounter Map Human Loyalist 4 | HP 39/39 | AC 19 (FF 15, T 14) | Init +6 | For +4 Ref +8 Wil +1 | CMD 17 | Perc. + 7 |

Frindlikh, who has been watching silently up until now, worries about the opinions voiced by Mujenbai and Otiophon. Hostages are being held there. They'll all be dead before you can get close. Wouldn't it be more prudent to stage a feint, and let a - say - professional cleaner take care of it?

Let's assess the situation at the Unlucky Sailor, see if we can find a back entrance. If you distract any guards long enough, I might be able to slip in a cut a few bonds before they even notice.

Classic heist, nothing to worry about, along as I can keep the meat-grinders from causing a blood-bath. The Orc may be the key to calming them, perhaps?

I will gladly participate in your prayer. Can you tell me some more about your god, and the kinds of worship you perform?

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

"Orright Frind, when we get there have a look and lets here your planning of it. Can't hurt to make sure we got a solid before we get in too deep"

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

"If you are prepared to take such a risk I have no objections."

Grand Lodge

Male Half-orc Cleric of Kurgess 2 (Varisian Pilgrim)
Stats:
HP: 19, Initiative: +1, Perception: +3, Sense motive: +8, AC: 11 (T: 11, FF: 10), CMD: 12, Fort: 6, Refl: 2, Will: 7

Jorag gave Mujenbai a soft chuckle. "Yes, Kurgess asks nothing of you but that you fight and win. Every struggle you make is like a prayer to Kurgess, even if he is not in your thoughts when you perform them." He quickly counted everyone present, ending the count at 7 by pointing at the raptor. "Yes, I think I can manage your companion as well Mujenbai."

After the prayer, Frindlikhs question elicited a broad smile from Jorag "Yes, I can tell you of him if you are interested. It is said that Kurgess was once mortal, a man of such physical perfection and prowess, no one could beat him in any sport or challenge. However, his skill fostered envy amongst his rivals, and one day their jealousy finally became too great. They sought to kill him and in their attempt brought many others in danger. Great Kurgess sacrificed himself to save them those caught in the death trap meant for him. After his death, athletes and warriors alike started calling upon his name as a prayer before they competed, in sports and deadly struggle alike." Jorag paused for a moment, looking very excited to talk about his God. "Some say the reverence of so many returned Kurgess to life as a god, others that Cayden Cailean and Desna herself saved him on that fateful day of his death, elevating him to godhood. I personally favour the former story, but no one but Cayden, Desna and Kurgess himself truly know."

"I used to compete in Kurgess' name myself, but those glory days are long behind me. When I could no longer compete, I embraced my faith fully, coaching and tending the needs of the new young contenders." Jorag looked forlorn for a moment, eyes glistening and staring off into empty space as memories of past exploits flashed before his inner eye.

"I joined the Pathfinders on a whim really, but I have come to see that true worship to Kurgess lies not with the athletes. Impressive as their exploits may be, the challenges they face hold no danger, no ultimate sacrifice if one is defeated. No, to me, it is clear the is no greater worship than when one puts everything on the line. There can be no greater determination, than the one shown in the face of death."

He put on a solemn face, though his eyes still betrayed the excitement he was feeling. He laughed loudly. "Just my luck to realize as much during the winter of my life. I would have made an excellent warrior in my day!"

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

Oti gratefully participates in the prayer to the good deity, his eyes lighting up as he finds truth and honor in the cleric's words: Indeed, to 'fight and win', and possibly pay the 'ultimate sacrifice'...

"You would have made an excellent paladin, too, I think," Oti says simply, deeply impressed.


Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map

I've sent Li a PM, holding a bit longer for him to check in and then we will roll forward in 10-12ish hours. I don't think I caught any more questions to the VC or Nefti, but if I missed one let me know and I'll be sure to answer before proceeding.
Good stuff, everyone! ^_^

Grand Lodge

Male Human Sage Sorcerer 3 | AC 11 (+4 mage armor) T 11 FF 10 | HP 20/20 | F +3 R +2 W +4 | Init +1 | Perception +1

Marco had a few more questions for Nefti in my last post.

Grand Lodge

Male Human (Tian-Shu) Monk 4 (Zen Archer/ Qinggong Monk)/Inquisitor 3 (Sacred Huntsmaster) - HP 55/55 - AC 19 /T: 19/FF: 17 - Perception +15 - F: +9*/ R: +8/ W: +13 - CMB: +8 - CMD: 29, Speed: 40, Init. +6

Li Shuo, checking in. I'll post substantively once I've caught up reading.

Apologies for holding up the show.

The quiet man from Tian Xia bows to Jorag, whom he knows from a past mission with the Pathfinders, and takes part in her ceremony, for he is one who places solemn value in ceremony.

"This is much like the code Li learned in youth," he says of Jorag's exposition on Kurgess's history. "But different, too. In Quain, wise men say all forms are one form, all lead to understanding of one. Master says 'One who understands his Way should be able to hear about all Ways and be more and more in accord with his own'."

Addressing the assembled Pathfinders and Venture Captain, the plain-seeming man bows again, the gesture intended to include them all. "Your servant, Li Shuo. With minds as one, we will be true to the purpose of the moment. Nothing more exists."

Having said this, the monk appears to have neither questions nor concerns, only the relaxed and casual calmness of one equally at home sipping tea or in the midst of bloody battle.

Grand Lodge

Male Human (Tian-Shu) Monk 4 (Zen Archer/ Qinggong Monk)/Inquisitor 3 (Sacred Huntsmaster) - HP 55/55 - AC 19 /T: 19/FF: 17 - Perception +15 - F: +9*/ R: +8/ W: +13 - CMB: +8 - CMD: 29, Speed: 40, Init. +6

I think I stunned them, bluedove...


Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map

Haha! Yes, the zen-ness of Li is indeed stunning. Glad you made it!

Marco Vail wrote:
"Oh! That was clever, Nefti! How'd we miss out on you? Can you tell us any more about the kidnappers? How many were there compared to the dozen that they kidnapped? How were they armed? Where did the kidnappers come from before they attacked? And were all 12 of the kidnapped taken to the Inn or just some of them? In what direction were the rest taken?"

Nefti puffed up at the compliment to his quick thinking and looked to be doing his best to recall accurately.

"They were dirty looking men with shaggy, matted looking hair and beards, the one that came near me stunk. I think most of them carried clubs, but I'm not sure how many there were. Six or eight, maybe? I didn't see them take anyone anywhere else. Are we ready to go? It's not very far."

Once everyone is ready to leave, Nefti leads the group of Pathfinders through the dockyards, and soon stops a short distance away from a rickety looking Inn.
"That's it there."
Map of approach to Inn of the Unlucky Sailor

Perched precariously overhanging the dirty harbor water stands the Inn of the Unlucky Sailor. A fresh coat of white paint glistens on half the inn’s outside walls, and most of the windows are boarded up. The roof leans slightly toward the harbor, as if at any moment the entire thing could come off and slide into the ocean. The dock leading up to the inn looks to be built of now rotting wood connected to thick, rank-smelling pilings. Several small rowboats are currently tied up along its length.

Let me know who, where, and how you will be approaching and the next map will have movable tokens.

Sovereign Court

Skills:
Acr +11, App +8, Blf +3, Cli +7, Crf (Untr) +1, Crf (Wea) +6, Dip -1, Ddv +12 (Traps +13), Dsg -1, Esc +11, Fly +4, Itm +3, K(Local) +7, Prc +7, Pfm (Untr) -1, Rid +4, Ssm +4, Slh +11, Sth +11, Srv +0, Swi -3
Encounter Map Human Loyalist 4 | HP 39/39 | AC 19 (FF 15, T 14) | Init +6 | For +4 Ref +8 Wil +1 | CMD 17 | Perc. + 7 |

Frindlikh takes a moment to look at the inn. Examining the structure, he tries to see any obvious ways in. Would a passage be reachable using the rowing boats?

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20

What would be reachable using the rowboats? Is there space under the inn?

This approach looks tricky for getting in unnoticed. Those board look rotten, in the worst case one of them gives in - we might as well go in bells whistling if that happens. Maybe that boat will help us find a back entrance.

Six to eight. Carrying clubs. Nasty thugs, I bet, not afraid to break a few bones or bash a skull. And if there's eight of them, the distraction had better be good enough to draw most of them out. It would be nice to have some backup. I wonder who will be subtle enough?

Let me see if I can get to that boat over here. I'll inspect the approach on the way in.

Frindlikh intends to move forward, and stealthily make his way to the boat (and point out flaws in the boards along the way). A next step would be to untie it and row it back, careful not to make any loud splashing noises.

Stealth: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

Relevant skills::

Acrobatics +8
Escape Artist +4
Perception +4
Sleight of hand +8
Stealth +8
Swim+0

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

The big Garundi scowls,

"You think stealth is needed? There are enough of us to enter from all sides it seems to me. If you wish to enter with someone from one quietly while we do so loudly that may work well. If we split into three pairs we can cover all the entrances I can see, and we should not be too far away to support one another if there is need."

bluedove, would you consider using google drawing instead of photbucket? I recently moved over to it and its brilliant because everyone can move there own "minis" and you don't need to save a new version for every move, etc. Here's the map from my own game if you are interested.

Grand Lodge

Male Human Sage Sorcerer 3 | AC 11 (+4 mage armor) T 11 FF 10 | HP 20/20 | F +3 R +2 W +4 | Init +1 | Perception +1

Marco takes part in the Kurgess prayer, and as the group collects their gear and leaves this inn, he avoids looking at the VC, so as not to remind her if he's not meant to go out on this mission. Just act naturally, just act naturally...

A couple blocks away, he finally breathes a sigh of relief on his successful 'escape'. He stays quiet during the walk and planning, though, still not wishing to draw attention to himself.

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

I like MapTools. Even though it isn't run as a live game, and I end up moving everyone and taking (quick) screenshots, I do like how it has coordinates. I'm still debating about staying with it, going with Google, or trying d20...
I use a link at the top of the page to the map, which is to a DropBox file. Here is how my campaign looks.

Oti looks at the building, whispering to his companions, "Perhaps the stealthy around to the side doors, although avoiding anyone at the windows could be a problem. The rest of us could apply ourselves to this street door as soon as a noise is heard. Tough to coordinate more, though, with each around a side of the building." Oti does not feel either decisive or strategic, and is unused to such, having been only a junior member of Greengold's watch and the Kyonin militia, not a leader. I would just break down the front door, but the Pathfinders might have a lighter touch.


Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map

The skies are stormy and overcast so that the afternoon light is dappled and diffused. A light drizzle is keeping a goodly portion of people off the dock ways and thoroughfares, but there is still a stream of travelers and locals still going about the days business.

Frindlikh can see that the front entrance looks to have been recently boarded up with a rough sign that says "Closed for Renovations". The wood looks old though, and probably not difficult to break through, but of course, that would be noisy.
There looks to be enough room to navigate a low profile rowboat under the building. The wooden planks leading up to the side entrances look treacherous indeed, both weak with rot and slick from the rain. As he steps onto them, they creak noisily.
There should probably be a rowboat accessible closer than just that one on the map. Frindlikh will be able to reach one easily.
It will be a Google Docs Drawing map when I add the tokens. I just use my photobucket for static images, usually. I've tried to work with Maptools, but since I can't even get it to launch, I needed something with a lesser learning curve. I agree it's a very cool application if you know how to *cough* apply it. ^_^

BTW, I'd forgotten about the faction missions. They are not relevant to earning prestige anymore, but they are available if anyone wants them. This is season one, so only Andoran, Cheliax, Qadiran, Osirion and Taldor missions are included. Let me know if you want yours!

Grand Lodge

Male Human Sage Sorcerer 3 | AC 11 (+4 mage armor) T 11 FF 10 | HP 20/20 | F +3 R +2 W +4 | Init +1 | Perception +1

Is that a pair of doors at the south side accessible by the street?

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

As Silver Crusade, I would like the 'equivalent' Andoran mission (p. 32 of the Guide).

It seems that the new Secondary Success Conditions sometimes relate back to one of the old faction missions, so it might be good to be doing them anyway. (I haven't surveyed it, but it was true for my last scenario.)


Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map
Marco Vail wrote:
Is that a pair of doors at the south side accessible by the street?

The south door is the most sturdy approach, but it is also the one that is boarded up.

Faction Missions- optional, but let me know if you accept them.
The Andoran mission, should you choose to accept it. (Alternate for Silver Crusade)
The Osirion mission, should you choose to accept it. (Alternate for Grand Lodge)
The Taldor mission, should you choose to accept it.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

Svet won't pick it up, but she WILL help others achieve theirs if asked in game

"I like this Kurgess, I earn my spare coin brawling in the pits, you must see them in Magnimar one day. You'd get a few followers from the athletes there"

"Right, so the door. Suppose that's where we hammer in if needed. Looks a bit tough, will make some noise and might delay us a bit ripping through - dont reckon it will give in to the first blow or two - just factor that in"

Mujenbai - thanks for that pointer, I might slide to that for my next game!

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

Mujembai nods to Svetlana,

"Makes sense, me and Unapp will move to the double door on the right, ensure no flight from there and strike from the flank. I say use the noise of forced entry to mask the stealthy entrance, I do not wish to sit still while others hunt. Why not break doors together on a count, ten elephants?"

Noticing a few puzzled looks he demonstrates,

"One elephant, two elephants?"

Do any of the doors appear to be obviously locked?

@'Hellion' Svetlana Irriseni, very welcome, I just discovered it and its made my life a heck of a lot easier.

Grand Lodge

Male Half-orc Cleric of Kurgess 2 (Varisian Pilgrim)
Stats:
HP: 19, Initiative: +1, Perception: +3, Sense motive: +8, AC: 11 (T: 11, FF: 10), CMD: 12, Fort: 6, Refl: 2, Will: 7

Jorag followed the planning in silence, weighing each suggestion, but not finding himself unable to agree on one over the other. "I must admit, I have no head for these things. I'm used to two combatants, ready and willing, walking into an open arena. I will defer to your decision and go where you need me."

Grand Lodge

Male Human Sage Sorcerer 3 | AC 11 (+4 mage armor) T 11 FF 10 | HP 20/20 | F +3 R +2 W +4 | Init +1 | Perception +1

"The piers look rather rickety. I suppose Frindlikh has confidence that he can cross it, but I'm not sure if any of you in armor could accompany him, and I doubt I'm nimble enough. Maybe Li Shuo?"

"It probably wouldn't hurt to try underneath, to see if the underside has an opening. If it does, it may be their escape route, so we may want to cut it off for that reason, even if it isn't the best route for our assault."

"Let's let Frindlikh scout the doors off the piers. If he feels he finds a good entrance for him, he gives us a thumbs up and stays in place. Meanwhile, a couple row beneath to scout the underside and returns to report. When we decide how we split our assault, someone gives a signal to Frindlikh, and we count ten elephants to begin."

"If Frindlikh missteps during his scouting, though, we'll need to have people in place to begin breaking down the front door to cover his noise."

"Obviously, Mujenbai and his dinosaur would likely be most comfortable here at the front doors. I have a couple spells that may incapacitate a few people, but I'm hardly martial, so I can be the lookout and signal man for Frindlikh. Anyone volunteer to row underneath?"

Sovereign Court

Skills:
Acr +11, App +8, Blf +3, Cli +7, Crf (Untr) +1, Crf (Wea) +6, Dip -1, Ddv +12 (Traps +13), Dsg -1, Esc +11, Fly +4, Itm +3, K(Local) +7, Prc +7, Pfm (Untr) -1, Rid +4, Ssm +4, Slh +11, Sth +11, Srv +0, Swi -3
Encounter Map Human Loyalist 4 | HP 39/39 | AC 19 (FF 15, T 14) | Init +6 | For +4 Ref +8 Wil +1 | CMD 17 | Perc. + 7 |

Frindlikh looks approvingly at Marco. He seems relieved that someone who is more convincing takes up the cause.

Yes, removing the planks would be distracting enough. I hope Marco can get Mujenbai to hold a bit.

Yes Marco, that would be good. Anyone silent enough to accompany me? We could either find a way in from the underside, and otherwise climb up the pier near the door, it should be quieter - and safer - than walking the pier.

Frindlikh tries to asses each of his party member's state of mind. Unless his party members will not give him sufficient time, he will scout out, with whoever wants to come along.

Silver Crusade

M Aasimar (Angel-kin) Pal 2 HP22/22 NL0 AC21* T11* FF20* CMD16* F+9* R+5* W+5* (+6 charm/compul.; +2 Deathless Spirit) Init+1 SPD20 Perc-2 SM+5 DV
Other:
Longsword +6/1d8+4/19-20/x2; Shortbow +2/1d6/20/x3

Obviously, Marco has read some books on strategy.


Female Human Pathfinder Society GM Thistletop Combat Map

Editable Map of Approach

Link to map above, I'll add the interior and enemy tokens once you've breached. The boat that has been edited in is movable too. Anyone scouting make me a Stealth and Perception check.
Anyone approaching an entrance needs a stealth check as well, the front entrance is boarded but the side entrances are not. Whether they are locked or not, you cannot tell from the street.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

Svetlana is hanging back in position until the signal to breach is given.

Sovereign Court

Skills:
Acr +11, App +8, Blf +3, Cli +7, Crf (Untr) +1, Crf (Wea) +6, Dip -1, Ddv +12 (Traps +13), Dsg -1, Esc +11, Fly +4, Itm +3, K(Local) +7, Prc +7, Pfm (Untr) -1, Rid +4, Ssm +4, Slh +11, Sth +11, Srv +0, Swi -3
Encounter Map Human Loyalist 4 | HP 39/39 | AC 19 (FF 15, T 14) | Init +6 | For +4 Ref +8 Wil +1 | CMD 17 | Perc. + 7 |

Frindlikh will be using the boat to get to the leftmost entrance, hoping one or two others will join along.

Rolls:

Stealth: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18
Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8

I took the liberty of moving myself and the boat - feel free to tag along

Let's have a look at this door right here, then.

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

Mujembai shakes his head, frowning down at Marco,

"The front doors are boarded, that mean extra time to enter there, it also means prey cannot escape swiftly through them - likely not at all. Scouting can do us very little good, what would finding there numbers change we will still assail them, but it can cause us real harm by alerting our prey and giving them time to dig in or flee. And I do not see see how something I would prefer is obvious when I have just stated my desire to do something else entirely. I think rowing beneath is foolhardy and more like to give us away, if there is such an exit the best way to it will be their entry not someone below where one of our number may well be out of the frey entirely."

The Garundi shrugs, clearly displeased, but prepared to go along grudgingly,

"But majority rule is the only viable tool here. I believe we should simply hit both viable entrances hard and fast, simple is nearly always better."

Most of that's Mujembai being a moody so and so - Cha 8 - but I really don't think the likely benefits of scouting here out weight the risks. I also think it will wind up taking a lot longer in real life.

Dark Archive

F Tief (Pit) Ftr 5/HK7 - HP124 AC-28/T-15/F-25 CMB17 CMD31 F:+14 R:+9: W+8/ Perc+13 - Dkvis 60' |Init+5(+combat reflex), Move 30'.

I agree that it can be a time sink, but a small delay to get good info and position isn't such a bad thing. It's when scouting missions are played turn-by-turn you lose heaps of rl time, that sort of thing needs to be truncated and abstracted. Pretty sure at this level though it will just turn into a straightforward brawl like you say :)

"They have a few entrances, but once we pop the front door hopefully they will just rush us, if a second smaller group all want to come in from the side we should be able to set up a flanker - or hammer and anvil in this case. If Oti comes in beside me I can hit the targets as they come in, and he can carve up the ones inside my guard with his shorter blades. Initially we can hold the door for any rush, and then once we clear off their first strike we can push in."

Grand Lodge

Male Half-orc Cleric of Kurgess 2 (Varisian Pilgrim)
Stats:
HP: 19, Initiative: +1, Perception: +3, Sense motive: +8, AC: 11 (T: 11, FF: 10), CMD: 12, Fort: 6, Refl: 2, Will: 7

Feeling up to the task of being quiet, unencumbered by armour as he was, Jorag joied Frindlikh in the dinghy. Keeping his head low as best he could, he uttered a short prayer to Kurgess, hoping his God would see him to the boat unnoticed.

Bit of Luck on himself, 6/7 left

Stealth: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3

Bit of Luck Stealth: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20

Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19

Bit of Luck Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (7) + 4 = 11

Grand Lodge

Druid (saurian shaman) 1 | HP11/11 | AC:20 T:12, F:18 | CMD:15, CMB:+3 | Save (F+4, R+2, W+4 - +5 vs fear) | Init:+8 | Perc: +6

The Garundi points at the front door,

"It is boarded, it will take us time to get through - too long. You might break it with a single charge, but likely not, I would need much luck to do so."

To my mind the boarded front door would be a risky entry point, a high DC strength check to burst likely too many HP to smash through in a single round. We could get lucky, but its probably more likely we just ring a gong for the enemy and loose rounds trying to get in. At least boarded from our side its one less escape point. I'll go with the majority, don't want to hold things up.

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