PFS1 - #10-04: Reaver's Roar - Gameday X - GM Nowruz (Inactive)

Game Master noral

Adventure Location:

The nation of Lastwall was founded in the 39th century AR with a dual purpose.
The first was to keep the Whispering Tyrant and his minions, who had been imprisoned in the former capital of Gallowspire at the end of the Shining Crusade, from ever escaping and threatening Golarion again.
The second was to hold back back the violent and expansionist orcs of the Hold of Belkzen who had previously served Tar-Baphon. For nearly 900 years, Lastwall's government and people follow these mandates closely and destroy any threat that emerges from across its northern borders, while keeping a close eye on the prison of the lich.

~ ~

Adventure Background:

A call from some of the Pathfinder Society's most esteemed leaders brings the PCs to a small town in Lastwall.
While their mission to retrieve a relic of the Shining Crusade from a cathedral guarded by a fearsome beast seems straightforward—if extremely hazardous—interested parties from the nearby orc nation of Belkzen and beyond have their own plans that may not align with the PCs' own.
Will the Pathfinders survive the deadly onslaught of a territorial guardian, or will they play into the hands of even more sinister forces?

~ ~

Please only post in the gameplay if you were selected - see discussion.

Let's bring the community together on this one folks! Praise Erastil!

It's a long way from Absalom to Lastwall.

Luckily for you, a high-level agent on her way to Vigil agreed to teleport you to your rendezvous with Venture-Captain Shevar Besnik at the Dryad’s Blessing Inn, a comfortable spot for travelers in Three Pines Ford, a quiet town along the banks of the Tourandel River in the south of the country.

So, without much ado you find yourselves in the common room at the inn, waiting on the arrival of the Venture Captain.

Feel free to describe yourself and introduce yourself in character. We'll be kicking on in earnest.

A lanky elf sits comfortably in an overstuffed chair, relaxing as he sips a large mug of Mwangi coffee. His gear sits in a semi organized pile beside him, a massive curved blade alongside a curiously shaped bow made of some type of horns ready to go at a moment's notice.

Nice to meet you all...I am Rallas. Fist time to Lastwall? It is for me...

"Welcome again Rallas, how have you been doing since we left Frostbreach?" a very well dressed half-elf noble wearing a rather luxuriously groomed beard asked, getting caught up on what has happened since they last meet.

Looking around at the others, he made a slight bow as he introduced himself. "Hello everyone, I am Senator Lorian Therian, Marquis of Urfa-Halij, Ambassador of Taldor, called "Lorian the Peacemaker" for short." he said with a smile.

Well...I managed to get some practice with that massive bow we found. I know bows...but that took some getting used to...

There could be little more contrast between Lorian and the woman who nearest to him. A half-orc, tall even for her race, with bones woven into her full plate stands with her back towards a wall and leans a gigantic, shining hammer against the wall. She has a jovial smile on her face that does not match her intimidating appearance as she looks at the goods, but her razor-sharp teeth could probably turn that smile menacing in a moment.

"I am Elbesamiya dy Bulaka," she says tentatively, hoping that she is not interrupting something important, "though I prefer just 'Elby' unless we are trying to impress some nobles."

An attractive Varisian woman in her mid-twenties with shoulder length straight black hair and striking green eyes enters. She walks into the room glancing about nervously but then strides forward with an air of confidence. She wears a red hooded traveling cloak and simple, comfortable clothing. If it wasn't for her weapons and silvery armor, and the exquisite jewelry adorning her hands and neck, you would mistake her for a simple farm girl. Following her is a small entourage.

Her eyes light up with happiness as she spots a couple of familiar faces.
"Lorian! Rallas! So wonderful to see the two of you!"
She grasps their hands and gives each a small kiss on the cheek in greeting.

"Haha! Tell them I say hello, as well, Inga."
The beast within her mind growls with delight.

"Klaus is also happy to see you two. He will be joining us later."
She says joyfully, happy to see old friends.

A young girl of about 14 years old, almost a splitting image of Inga, shyly peeks out from behind her. The young girl darts out and wraps her arms around Rallas' legs and looks up at him.
"Hello, Rallas. I've missed you so very much."
She says softly.

The woman turns to the others assembled.
"Greetings, everyone. I am Countess Inga Blücher. But, please, just call me Inga."
She nods and gives a polite curtsy.
"And that young girl is Junia. She's a student of mine."

Next to step in is a stocky Ulfen man, with long greying hair in braids and a bushy beard. Wearing leather and furs, he sports a steel helm with two large horns and grips a battle axe tightly with both hands. His dark eyes scans the room from beneath his helm.

"And this is Smörboll."
Inga says as she nods towards the man.
The Ulfen grunts as he gives Inga a glare.
"Oh, don't be so stuffy, Smörboll."
She smiles back at him.
"He doesn't like it when I call him that. It means 'butterball' in Ulfen. He's just nervous. He'll lighten up after some time, honest."

Finally entering the room is a young man in his late teens with tousled brown hair and a slim, yet muscular, build. He pulls a small canvas-topped cart painted and decorated like a Varisian gypsy wagon.

"And this is Jeeves, my porter."
Inga says as she gestures towards the boy.

Jeeves smiles at Lorian and Rallas as he sets the handle of the wagon down. He then stands straight, with chin up and chest out, in almost militant fashion.
"Well met, Rallas. Greetings, Lorian. An honor to see you two again."
He says with a polite nod.
"Get in any snowball fights with any ghosts lately?”
A wide grin crosses his face.

Inga claps her hands and grips them tightly as she addresses all those assembled.
"Now that introductions are finished, It appears we are going to be an excellent group of adventuring companions."

"Greetings Elbesamiya dy Bulaka. Your services will be useful traveling near the Hold of Belkzen. If you will allow me, I would like to learn the language of the Orcs during our travels as it will be handy in my line of work." Lorian said, looking over her armor to get any indication as to what country she served or if he knew anything about the half-orc.

Seeing the Varisian woman enter, a broad smile erupted from the half-elf's face as he headed towards her. Taking Countess Inga's hands, Lorian gave each of them a kiss. "Pleased to see you again Countess Inga, I see that you brought your entourage with you." he said with a smile as another Ulfen entered the room.

"Thank you Varack for checking the area out for any threats. Countess, may I present Varack Bloodaxe, my bodyguard." Lorain said, introducing Varack to the large party congregated around the Countess. A snicker could be heard when the Ulfen was introduced to Smörboll. "This is Elbesamiya dy Bulaka" he said in introduction.

"How is your caravan, is it doing well? Minata Ryuunosuke is away escorting a caravan to Janderhoff." he inquired.

Inga! It's great to see you again! And you too, Junia...have you been learning from your teacher? the elf says as he returns the hug.

No...no snowball wielding spirits around here...as far as I know, that is. he chuckles as he nods in greetings to Jeeves.

And Smorboll...a man who looks for threats everywhere. We'll get along fine, I think...

And as the Marquis has so eloquently stated, this is Elby. he nods to the holy warrior.

Smörboll cocks an eyebrow, possibly recognizing the other Ulfen. He slides the axe handle into his belt loop and slowly steps towards Varack. He squints as he moves closer, then throws his arms wide in surprise.
"Varack! Is that you!?! It is I, Jorgeir! Your third cousin!"
He gives the man an Ulfen bear hug then holds the man at arms length to get a good look at him.
"Ha!!! You got work as bodyguard, too!?! No more fishing in the frigid sea sunrise to sundown for me. This life of adventure is much more exciting.
Pay is much better, too."
He winks.

"How is your caravan, is it doing well? Minata Ryuunosuke is away escorting a caravan to Janderhoff." he inquired.

"Oh, yes, Lorian. My caravan is doing quite well. In fact, It should have made its way to Frostbreach by now, bringing goods from Korvosa. It's good to hear Minata is doing well."

Inga! It's great to see you again! And you too, Junia... have you been learning from your teacher? the elf says as he returns the hug.

Junia smiles warmly at Rallas.

Inga nods in agreement.
"She's a very good student. She reads every book about wizardry, the occult, history, and anything else that she can get her hands on."
Inga lets out a soft chuckle.
"I barely need to teach her anything anymore because she knows so much already."

"She has also formed a very close bond with the spirit that resides in her subconscious, as well. We just need more work on controlling the manifestations, however."

Just to let everyone that already doesn't know, Junia, Smörboll, and Jeeves are all Vanities which are listed in Inga's profile. Klaus (who you'll meet later) is Inga's phantom. He's similar to a summoner's eidolon.

Just to let everyone that already doesn't know, Junia, Smörboll, and Jeeves are all Vanities which are listed in Inga's profile. Klaus (who you'll meet later) is Inga's phantom. He's similar to a summoner's eidolon.

I was wondering about that. At first, I thought that I was not familiar enough with occult classes and you just introduced us to all your spirits, but eventually remembered that medium does that, not spiritualist.

"Greetings Elbesamiya dy Bulaka. Your services will be useful traveling near the Hold of Belkzen. If you will allow me, I would like to learn the language of the Orcs during our travels as it will be handy in my line of work." Lorian said, looking over her armor to get any indication as to what country she served or if he knew anything about the half-orc.

Nothing Elby wears bears any mark that would indicate a specific clan, though her name sounds Tamrivenan. "Abantu bam ndabashiya kudala, kodwa ndiya kukufundisa endinako," she answers with a grin. "I don't often get to speak my native tongue any more."

"What did she say, Inga?"
The beast within asks eagerly.

Inga tries to translate the words for Klaus.
Linguistics: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9

"I don't know, Klaus."

"Well, whatever Elby said, she seems like a fine warrior to fight beside."

Inga turns to Elby.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Elbesamiya. It makes me feel more at ease that we have someone that can help us if we need to negotiate with the orcs of Belkzen.

My friend is anxious to meet you. He enjoys the company of skilled warriors."
She says with a warm smile.

Linguistics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20
Listening closely to Elby, Lorian tried to understand what she was saying in order to better learn the language. "Sounds like you said something about leaving your, maybe the word is people? long ago. I am not sure about the rest of it. I am much more use to hearing "Kufa indlebe ende!" before getting attacked by Orcs. Guess it might not be too flattering." he said with a smile.

Varack looked at Jorgeir and shook his head. "Åtminstone kommer du att vara på ett äventyr, han tillbringar dagen med att flaxa tandköttet! " he said with a grunt.

Linguistics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (6) + 8 = 14
Lorian had no clue as to what Varack was saying but figured he had better learn the language when he can.

linguistics: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (9) + 6 = 15

"Ha, ha, ha!"
Smörboll lets out a hearty laugh at Varack's comment.

"You do not find traveling with these Pathfinders exciting? It's the best thing that has ever happened to me. Inga and the children are like family. I get to travel in comfort and see the world."
He boasts proudly.

He then leans closer to whisper to Varack.
"Att Klaus kan vara ganska skrämmande till en början, säger jag. Han har ett humör som en linnorm. Underbart med Inga och barnen, dock."

Elby grins at the half-elf. "You are a quick study, Lorian. Ndiyathemba ukuba uhlala ixesha elide ngokwaneleyo ukuba ufunde ngakumbi."

Linguistics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (13) + 8 = 21
"Ndiyathemba ukuba ndiza kufunda kangangoko ndinako." he replied

Varack looked towards the female, not sure of what to expect of this "Klaus" person, thing, whatever but nodded in understanding.

Rallas just watches the others banter back and forth, making a mental note to study more languages.

So...anyone have any idea why we're here? Seeing old friends and making new ones is great, but I don't think they brought us up here for a mixer... he jokes as he takes a swig of coffee.

"My missive said something about retrieving a relic from the Shining Crusade in a cathedral. I'm excited to learn more about the Shining Crusade. I'm also hoping for some peaceful negotiations with the orcs of Belkzen. To be able to expand my trade caravan's route into their nation would be wonderful."

"Oh I'd be so happy to tell you all about the Crusade!" pipes up the cheery blond halfling who was setting out the latest round of drinks. "I promised Ollysta I'd spread the good word! Just let me grab my chapbook and return this uniform the staff kind enough to loan me."

He runs back off to the kitchen, where a muffled, "Thanks for letting me help out guys - felt just like being back home!" can be made out.

Returning in the clothes of a stereotypical Chelish manservant, worn but classy, he carries a large (for him) rucksack by a set of elk antlers with a shining child-sized breastplate tied to it. He digs around for a while, setting out some strange tubes with string, then 'Ah-has!' and pulls out a pamphlet entitled You and the Silver Crusade.

Giving it one glance, he tucks both hands behind his back and takes a deep breath to recite... then whips the pamphlet up again curiously. "Oh, you said Shining Crusade, not Silver Crusade. Well, I'd be happy to tell you all about that, if you're ever interested." He starts repacking the bag.

"I'm Leinad Gaelbraithe by the way, from the community of Rego Scripa in Westcrown. Just back from retrieving my last group from the ethereal plane.. ah.. hope that won't be any trouble this time! You all sound so very interesting, pleased to meet you."

Venture-Captain Shevar Besnik arrives at the inn soon after you, and he's accompanied by Ollysta Zadrian, dressed in gleaming full plate bearing the holy symbol of Sarenrae.

The two of them invite all of you into a back room to gain some privacy, and Ollustra waits for everyone to get settled before reciting a brief prayer.

Her eyes are serious, but she wears a slight smile on her face. Shevar Besnik speaks first.

“I’d like to begin by thanking you all for being here. The mission we have for you will be dangerous, but it is vitally important to the people of Lastwall and the Pathfinder Society. However, I am not the one coordinating this mission. For those of you who do not already know her, allow me to present Ollysta Zadrian, leader of the Silver Crusade, and the second-most intimidating Sarenite I’ve ever known.”

Ollysta places her helmet on the table.

“Thank you, Shevar. Pathfinders, welcome to Three Pine’s Ford. We need you to recover an object from an ancient and most holy temple, the Bastion of Light. The relic in question is a helmet that rests somewhere within the temple, likely within a fountain. The Bastion of Light lies in the village of Roslar’s Coffer, northwest of here. The village is small, but its people are strong and friendly.”

Ollysta pauses to close her eyes.

Taking a deep breath, she says, “The Bastion was a beautiful place used by Sarenite clerics during the Shining Crusade. They devised incredible rituals and brought many crusaders back from the brink of undeath. The helmet that we ask you to recover may have belonged to a powerful captain of the Shining Crusade, but unfortunately our histories have shed little light on its owner’s identity.”

Ollysta begins to pace in front of the table, “There is a complication. The Bastion of Light was claimed some eleven years ago by a creature known as a red reaver. The beast guards the Bastion fiercely and has killed or chased off all other would-be heroes, looters, and soldiers who have approached it. Please exercise caution, Pathfinders. The red reaver has become stronger every year, and it will not hesitate to kill you. Recover the helmet, and find a way to rid Roslar’s Coffer of the red reaver. Another Pathfinder in the area named Gorm Greathammer has been studying the Shining Crusade and knows more.”

Roslar’s Coffer and the Bastion of Light - Knowledge (history)

Any questions for them?

Any idea what kind of beast this reaver is? Might give us an edge if we can find out and prepare for it...

going for just the type...like aberration or the like...might get a couple Bane arrows if we can find out...also getting an air bladder...

Ollysta thinks a moment.

"We believe that it is a magical beast! The red reaver was already a fearsome beast when it arrived in Roslar’s Coffer, but I suspect that it has developed a bond with some of the crusaders’ ritual sites and relics within the Bastion of Light. You would do well to see if you can sever that connection, but take care to not harm the things you find there. Though it has been abandoned for some time, it is still a holy place and we are eager to restore it once the reaver is removed.” she says.

"You should remember that the red reaver is drawn to the Bastion of Light. The reason is that the red reaver is drawn to things that it finds beautiful. It jealously guards those things it finds, and it will do anything to keep you out of its territory. Perhaps you may be able to use its fascination against it.”

"A beast," Elby mises. "I hate to bring death to any creature, but if the Red Reaver lacks the capacity to negotiate, I may not have a choice. Unless the Crusade would have the ability to confine it." The last is obviously a question, despite her tone.

Ollysta smiles at Elby.

"You are asking the right questions but the answer is unfortunately that this beast is so strong that it would be unwise to try to confine it. There is one item in the Bastion of Light ... the helmet that might be able to help but you have to find out. I’m afraid we do not know where the helmet might be located within the Bastion, only that it is likely inside a font of some kind. When you arrive in Roslar’s Coffer, ask for Gorm
Greathammer. He has been studying the Shining Crusade and may have more information.” she says and thinks again.

"And you should know that there are many stories about the helmet, but unfortunately none of them can be verified. Some say the helmet belonged to a powerful captain of the Shining Crusade who fell in battle before the end of the war. Others say it belonged to a soldier corrupted by the Whispering Tyrant. Some even claim that the helmet was gifted to Arazni by Sarenrae herself. There are even more outlandish tales as well. The helmet is at the very least unique and sacred, but it could also be very powerful.”

Lorian's long ears perked up at the mention of assisting in the recovery of a helmet that belonged to the Bastion of Light. Not sure if he knew anything about Roslar’s Coffer or the Bastion of Light, he tried to remember anything he knew about the Shining Crusade.

K:Nobility: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10
P:Soldier: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 5 = 24

"I believe that I can speak for the others. We will be honored to locate the missing helmet and return it. If we can restore the Bastion of Light to its former glory, even better." Lorian said.

Inga thinks hard, trying to remember if she has ever heard of the Bastion of Light.
Know: History: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9
"Never heard of such a place."

Inga steps forward and bows her head slightly in greeting to Ollysta.
"You said something about the clerics performing incredible rituals to bring back crusaders from the brink of undeath."
A look of dread washes over her face.
"What caused them to almost turn into undead?"

"And regarding the helmet. What does it look like?"

"We do not know much about these other rituals or the helm! Prior to the orc raids and the red reaver’s occupation, the church served as a fortified stronghold during the early years of the Shining Crusade. Housing numerous Sarenite warriorpriests and other heroes of the Shining Crusade, the church not only served as a staging ground for various military actions but also acted as a place of redemption, researching rituals and techniques to cleanse the souls of the warriors transformed against their will into undead monstrosities by the Whispering Tyrant and his servants. Unfortunately, many of the details related to these rituals were lost as the clerics developing them were called to the front, never to return!" the paladin of the Dawnflower says.

"But please ... do not see this as an opportunity for you to line your pockets at the expense of history or the people of Roslar’s Coffer. This mission stands to right a serious wrong and win back a holy site. Anything you find within the Bastion should be considered the property of the church and left where it is.” she says calmly.

Shevar interrupts to add, “If you come across anything that might help you deal with the red reaver, use it. I’d rather not have to go over this briefing with another group.”

Leinad, who's been rather glowy-eyed ever since Ollysta arrived, accepts a letter, gives her an archaic salute and literally stage-whispers to her, "You can count on me Ma'am!"

To the rest of the group he cheerfully declaims, "We're going on a hunt of a dangerous beast! Erastil will be pleased! Captain Besnik, if the community of Roslar's Coffer have been suffering the presence of this beast for so long, is there anything we can bring them as succor in their time of need?"

This definitely sounds like an interesting mission. I think I'm just about ready to head out...think a triple check of my gear might be in order...

Besnik looks at Leinad and steps in to answer the question.

“I do not know to be honest. See what you can do when you arrive there. You will travel up the Tourondel River. Roslar’s Coffer is some one hundred and fifty miles northwest of here. Arrangements have been made to provide you with safe transport upriver via boat or horse, your choice. You should reach the village within three days if you set a steady pace. Sooner if I get you the really good horses.”

He thinks for a moment.

"There are potentially other dangers. There are reports of orcs in the area. We suspect they are part of the Twisted Nail tribe, so avoid them if possible. Any noise is likely to draw the attention of the red reaver. We suspect that the orcs are there to coerce the red reaver to ally with them. Though it is unlikely that they would succeed in negotiating with the beast, their shamans may be able to twist its mind to their whims. I can’t imagine the devastation it could bring to the region.”

The briefing is then concluded and you travel over land to Rostler's Coffer.

The village of Roslar’s Coffer lies ahead. Along the shore of the river stands the busy but quiet fishery.

Several abandoned buildings on the edge of the town are adorned with red ribbons, most worn and stained with time. Very little in the village appears to be recently built, and many houses appear to be in disrepair.

Interspersed amongst the ribbon-adorned trees and buildings, hand-painted signs dot the roadways and alleys warning travelers to go no farther.

What would you like to do once you arrive in town?

survival: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (3) + 12 = 15

Well...we're here. May as well get started...Gorm Greathammer was his name, right? the elf says as he looks around for anyone that might know something. Barring that, he just asks the first person he see.

Good day...i was wondering if you could tell me where I might find Gorm Greathammer?

The villages seem a bit guarded, but generally friendly. They are easily able to direct you to the Toothless Pike where you can find Gorm Greathammer.

Being in the town also gives you the opportunity to find out more and remember details.

When you enter the Toothless Pike, you recognize a dwarf that matches Gorm's description, who waves you over to his table.

The Toothless Pike is grey and quiet. A handful of patrons sit hunched over ales and ciders, waiting for plates of fish cakes frying in the kitchen. The dwarf sits at a long table near the fireplace, stacks of parchments, scrolls, and a great tome arranged neatly around him and a great, green cloak hung on the back of his chair.

“Pathfinders! I’m glad you’ve arrived. I received word from Ollysta that you’d be coming. I understand you’re on your way to the Bastion of Light. I don’t envy you. That red reaver is one hell of a brute, and you should all be very careful. It’s much larger than it should be, and while it isn’t smart, it has very keen senses. I’ll do what I can to help you, though. I’ve drawn a rough map based on a few records and accounts passed along by the villagers here.”

He looks at you with a smile.

“You’ll see that the helmet is likely in the font at the back of the Bastion. When you have it and the red reaver is defeated, please return it to me. I’ve done some research, and I think I might be able to learn something about the helmet’s original owner if I can examine it personally.”

He then scratches his hair.

“Now, I’m certain that the red reaver has been affected by the healing font and that undoing that connection will weaken it, but I suspect a connection with some of the other ritual sites and artifacts in the Bastion as well. Once you make it inside, see what you can find. I’m sure there are still a few ritual sites from the Shining Crusade that can aid you, should you show the same qualities and behaviors as the folk the the Bastion was built for.”

know local: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

Hmm...so it seems the beast has developed an affinity for the healing font. Breaking that bond might be hard...but possible I think....Inga, Lorian..that sort of thing is more your area of expertise...what say you?

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

"it doesn't seem like we're the first to try to take on the Red Reaver. Best learn what we can about it so we avoid the mistakes of those who went before us. Is there anything helpful you could tell us? Capabilities? Range? That sort of thing."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (6) + 13 = 19

Leinad spends time asking the townfolk about the Reaver, as well as what they need most in town, food, medicines, etc.

He listens carefully and makes notes on Gorm's words and responses.

A master diplomat and sometimes spy, Lorian started learning what he could about the town, talking with the locals in the hope of increasing his trade caravan. "Thank you for the offer of sending word to my love ones if I should perish. It will not be the first and I hope to avoid it. However, if I do, please send this." he said, jotting down a letter to Lady Gloriana Morilla before continuing his gathering of information.

"You will find that people are more welcome if you look towards expanding their lot in life by increased trade." he said to the Countess as he discussed his findings.

Gather information, take 10 for 42. Give the group all of the information.

"I am not that versed in the magic area, more like the political arena Rillas, where words can kill a person just as swiftly as a dagger. I will have to defer to the Countess in that area." Lorain said. "However, we may have to shut down the other parts in the temple in order to weaken it. We want to temporally do that so it can be restored to its former glory."

Catching up. I stll need to pick a feat for lvl 11...but going to get some rolls in now.

K History wTimelost Chronicler: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

Survival (T10): 10 + 19 = 29

Aid Rallas (K. Local) wJade wayfinder: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13\

Ajax is a fit Garundi male. His unusual white hair seems in stark contrast to his black panther that follows at the ranger's heals. Ajax gets to know the party on the trip, inquiring about their fighting styles, their spells, and any other techniques that they employ during combat.

We should coordinate spell casting. Ajax typically casts Life Bubble and will probably go with Greater Magic Fang, but he could be persuaded to memorize others.

Ajax grows suspicious of the dwarf when Grom requests the party bring the helm to Grom.

Sense Motive to see if Grom is witholding info wJade Wayfinder: 10 + 18 = 28

Earlier...

"Horses it is, then. The children, Smörboll, and myself have spent too much time aboard boats recently. I think if we travel by boat one more time, all of us will get very seasick."
Each member of her entourage nods in agreement.

"If you will all excuse me, I have some business to attend to before we leave Three Pines Ford. With my merchant connections, and clout with the Taldan aristocracy, I should be able to get us a horse drawn carriage to take us to Rosler's Coffer. Those of you who do not wish to ride a horse are welcome to share space in the carriage. Smörboll and Jeeves love to drive carriages."
She smiles at the Ulfen and the boy, who both grin in excitement.

She turns to her fellow Pathfinders.
"Meet us out front within the hour and we'll be off."
Inga nods as she takes her leave, ushering her retinue out the door.

----------------------------

A rustic and weathered, yet quaint carriage, drawn by two farm horses pulls up in front of the inn with Smörboll and Jeeves in the driver's seat. A local stableboy arrives with two riding horses in tow. Inga opens the door as the carriage comes to a halt.
"It's the best I could manage, but, it'll do!"
She says cheerily.
"If you all are ready, shall we make our way to Rosler's Coffer?”

----------------------------

Once the carriage is a few hours away from Three Pines Ford and the surrounding farmlands, Inga stops the group of travelers to take a break for much needed leg stretching and lunch. They find a small clearing along the side of the road, perfect for a break. Smörboll and Jeeves lead the horses to a nearby stream to drink while Junia helps unpack the cooking supplies with the others.
Inga politely excuses herself and then wanders into the copse of trees beyond the clearing. Hiding behind a large tree, she can be heard muttering mystical incantations.
In a few moments, gutteral snarling and growling can be heard.
Suddenly, a hulking ectoplasmic werewolf, nearly seven feet tall, erupts from behind the tree and bolts towards Rallas!
Inga peers out from behind the same tree, a wide smile across her face...

"Aaahh-Woooooooo!!!"

The phantom werewolf charges at Rallas and then wraps his huge arms around the elf, lifting the startled elf off the ground.
"Ha-ha-ha!!! Rallas! It's been too long!"
He growls as he squeezes the elf with a big hug. He sets the elf down and pats his shoulder.
”How have you been, lad?"
The werewolf then turns to Lorian.
"Lorian! Wonderful to see you, too, my friend! Still keeping busy with those pompous Taldan nobles and their boring soirées?"
He throws his head back in hearty laughter.

He lifts Junia into his arms and she holds him tight. She presses her head against his shoulder, happy to see her friend.
"Hi, Klaus. I've missed you."
She says softly.

The wolfman turns to the strangers.
"You all look like a fine group of adventurers.
I am honored to make your acquaintance. I am Klaus."
Holding Junia with one arm, he holds up the other in greeting.

As the group spots Rosler's Coffer in the distance, Inga calls out to bring the carriage to a halt. Climbing out, Klaus helps her step down. She glances about, sensing something strange.
"Something's not right."
She says with a worried look.
Klaus looks around as he sniffs the air.
Survival: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18

"Hmm. Must just be my nerves."
She says quietly.

"Come on, Klaus. I don't think these villagers will be very welcoming to a ghostly werewolf."
After a bit of protesting, Klaus finally agrees and follows Inga behind a tree. She returns alone with a somber expression and climbs back into the carriage.
Jeeves snaps the horses' reigns and gets the old carriage rolling towards the village.