5-08: The Confirmation (Inactive)

Game Master fine_young_misanthrope

Here is where we post our IC stuff. Just getting this ready now.

The invitation delivered last night was remarkably simple, especially given the importance of the occasion: “Start where it all began. Meet us at the Pig’s Paunch one hour before dawn.” The Pig’s Paunch is a run-down building with a faded sign of a large pig standing on its hind legs, arms folded above a corpulent belly. Inside, the air is thick with the scents of human sweat, stale tobacco, and leftover food. In the center of the room, surrounded by inebriates sleeping off their revelries, a familiar elven man stands high upon top of a large round table. “Welcome! Welcome, my students! Please, have a seat!” With that, Kreighton Shaine, the Pathfinder Society’s Master of Scrolls, nimbly drops down to sit cross-legged on the table before looking about the tavern with a sense of reverent wonder. “Can you believe it? It all started here years ago—well, over four hundred of them at least. Under this very roof the Pathfinder Society was born. “But today! Today you will begin your Confirmation! Master Farabellus, Master Zey, and I all agree you each have shown your worth and dedication to the Society, so there’s no better time to see if you can handle becoming full field operatives. Allow me to introduce you to Janira Gavix,” he says as he motions for an excitable halfling woman to approach. She wears a large backpack and carries all manner of tools, pouches, and scroll cases around her waist. Shaine continues, saying, “Janira here will be going with you on your Confirmation. She was one of my brightest pupils and will no doubt be an invaluable resource on your journey, for she discovered the caves you are about to explore during her own confirmation.” Janira speaks up in an enthusiastic and cheerful voice, “Greetings, aspiring Pathfinders! Six months ago, while I was mapping cave entrances in the foothills of the Kortos Mounts, I witnessed a lone gillman entering a concealed cave. I thought little of it at the time, but I saw another one enter the cave again a month later as my Confirmation stretched on. A few days later, after I completed my assigned task, I entered the cave system, but was unable to find the gillmen.” Master Shaine hops to his feet. “Initiates, for your Confirmation, you will travel to these caves to explore and document its many passages. Additionally, and most importantly, you are to learn what the gillmen are up to in there. Oh, and you need to come back alive as well.” With these parting words, the Master of Scrolls jumps off the table and strolls out of the building while humming to himself.

please introduce yourself, and describe your character. Also, roll your first initiative to make life quicker later on

Akashi nods at Shaine's words, pushing the remains of an avocado and several mango away with one delicate claw.

A simple reconnaissance mission then.

Slowly standing, Akashi's burnt umber wings momentarily catch in her should length black hair before she brushes the tangle to one side, eyes momentarily flaring a dull red in annoyance.

It sounds a simple enough task. Have there been any other reports of gillman activity in the area?

Initiative: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12

Akashi is a 5'4" tall tiefling with an extremely strong manifestation of demonic traits. Skin the color of burnt umber. Small black claws, the hint of fangs, a delicate pair of horns jutting from her forehead, long forked tail and a short pair of wings.

None of this is concealed in the least by the minimal clothing she wears. The scantest of plain wool sleeveless tunic and leather sandals bound with rawhide straps. A simple leather pouch is held in place by the rawhide cord cinching her tunic.

Upon Akashi's back rests a sheathed sword taller than its bearer.

"An excellent question," Hitomi says, nodding toward the tiefling, "what dangers do you expect we'll be facing in our travails?" Though she appears to be Tien, the young woman speaks in a perfect Chelish accent.

At 5'7" Hitomi is somewhat tall for a woman of Tian descent. She is lithe and well muscled with olive skin and dark, tilted eyes. Her jet black hair is hidden in the hood of her cloak, and a scarf rests around her neck, ready to be pulled up to obscure her face.

She wears a studded leather jerkin that has been dyed a very dark brown and had its studs painted black as well. Hitomi's clothes are made in the Chelish style, the leather dark brown, and the cloth dark blue.

Hitomi is armed with a few knives, some smaller throwing knives and a perculiar weapon that looks like a small scythe on a chain.

Initiative: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21

Konnief quietly questions, "Is it gillmen or a single gillman?"

Init: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

She stands at 4'11" with an extremely obvious Chelaxian profile. She wears an embroidered overcoat and carries a parasol. As she walks past, there is just the faintest memory of exotic perfume left in the air.

Wait a minute. I joined up with the Society to get out into the world, explore, see the sights, experience something different. I've spent my whole life wandering around caves, and the first thing the Society does is send me back into another cave?

This outburst comes from a young, dissheveled dwarf dressed in simple brown clothes. He wears a silver tankard on a cord around his neck, and has a mild fermented smell about him.

Although... we didn't have any gillmen in our caves. So that's different. And I've never been to Kortos, so that will be new. On second thought, this sounds like fun!

He stops to take another big bite of his steak, and washes it down with an extended drink from a large beer stein.

Those are great questions about the gillmen, but you haven't asked the most important question of all. Do we have time for another round before we get started?

Initiative: 1d20 ⇒ 18

Janira turns to each of you in turn, smiling brightly, so birghtly it almost hurts. She stands shorter then three feet tall, so some of you have to crane over the table to see her. Let's answer these questions one at a time....Akashi I think you were first!

We, and be we I mean I, haven't heard or seen any other gillman activities in this area. Its not on the coast, so it's strange to see them going into a cave. On to the deeper details of the mission at hand. After reviewing my mission reports personally, Master Shaine believes it is no coincidence that each time they entered the caves it was during a full moon, so it is also no coincidence that you have been called here now, just a day before the moon is full again. We both believe that tomorrow night is our best chance to find out why these caves are important and what exactly the gillmen are doing in there. The caves we’ll be travelling to lie under the base of the Kortos Mounts. We’ll need to spend every minute of daylight possible to reach the caves by foot, crossing over the Cairnlands, taking the paths to Diobel, and finally making our way through the wilderness. With any luck we won’t run into any of the local inhabitants. Once in the caves, we’ll need to work together to explore and determine whether any gillman are present or have been recently. Keep an eye out for any other clues that might
hint at the caves’ significance, too. I wouldn't call it just a reconnaissance mission, but we do need to see what's going on. I think Hitomi had the next question!

As for dangers on the trip, Kortos might have one of the largest cities in the world, but its still full of dangers in the wild. We're going of into danger, so expect anything you might see in the forest and mountains. Centaurs control the lowlands and surrounding wilderness of the Kortos Mounts. The areas farther up the Mounts are controlled by minotaurs, and the icy peaks are home to tribes of harpies. They’re always vying for territory, but with any luck, we should be able to avoid them and reach the caves without conflict. ah....Konnief! Your question!

One gillman or multiple gillmen?....humm....Well thats the interesting thing... I've only seen one at a time, but its never the same gillman....so...a little of both. I really wonder what they're up to!

Tovar! You're is the most important question so far. Barkeep another round of your finest for my friends and future pathfinders! After a few moments, the barkeep bring a round for the group. One cup is placed in front of each of you. When that is done, Janira grabs her cup, raises it high and chears LET'S EXPLORE, REPORT, COOPERATE!

After her toast, Janira sits down and becomes much more serious. She pulls our a large leather-bound journal and opens it on the table. Before we set out, we should get to know each other and review our plan. After all, the most import factors determining whether an expedition will be a success are cooperation and preparation! Ill go first!

I am Janira Gavix. I joined the Pathfinders about four years ago as soon as I was old enough. I was the oldest of seven children with the youngest still in the cradle. I joined to travel, but I've come to love knowledge and books so much more. I hope to one day have something worthy of the Chronicles like any good Pathfinder. How about the rest of you?

"I am Konnief Bandersnipe of the grand and noble Empire of Cheliax. I joined the Pathfinders two and a half years ago as a way to have new experiences and see the world in order to improve the sphere of my acting... and to pay the bills while between plays. The competition for parts in the Chelish theatre is rather Hellish."

"I am Hitomi, my parents moved to Cheliax from Tian-Min when I was but an infant. The short of it is that I spent my childhood learning ninjutsu from my father, and was recently offered a field commission by Paracountess Dralneen after completing a few... 'tasks' for her. The long of it would take a while..."

I am Akashi. My mother died bearing me and none know my father's name, though few doubt his nature. I was abandoned on the steps of the Monastery of the Seven Forms as an infant. The monastery was the only home I knew until two years ago when I was sent out to learn my place in the world.

I was field commissioned last year after assisting with problem involving the Aspis Consortium and have reported to Absolom for my confirmation

My name is Tovar, and it is a pleasure to meet you all! I'm from a small dwarven outpost in the Mindspin mountains that I'm sure none of you have ever heard of. My calling in life to venerate the teachings and philosophy of the great Cayden Cailean. I venerate all his noble qualities...freedom, bravery, strength, love of fermented beverages!

Tovar pauses to take a large swig from his beer.

The spiritual fathers in our outpost recently convinced me I was spending too much time focusing certain aspects of my worship, and to become a fully developed and effective tool of my god, I needed to explore some of his other aspects. Namely travel. What better way to do that than through the Pathfinder Society!

That was about three months ago. On the trip in to Absalom, the Venture Captain I was traveling with explained I would be in training for a while before I became a full fledged field agent. But after only a week, my instructors said I was ready for my Confirmation! How about that, huh?! So when do we get started?

Reading between the lines:

Tovar is a cleric of Cayden Cailean, with domains in strength and travel. So he is more of a buff/support cleric than a healer.

I understand that Cailean is a ... less disciplined god than many others. I have always been taught the importance of self control and inner peace. Traits I fear are most important for one of my nature. I cannot afford to allow my self control to slip. I fear my base nature may assert itself if I allow it to do so.

Akashi is a monk with a nodachi. She tends to keep a very tight reign on her emotions, seldom smiling or becoming upset. Her own self-fear is what she has been sent forth to from the monastery to conquer.

Konnief is a spy for the Silver Crusade against Diabolists in Cheliax... err... A thespian! Working in the theatre! She lies a lot... by that I obviously mean she acts a lot... conveying fiction to an audience and not royal inquisitors.

"Discipline is good, but you also need to be able to adapt to the situation. That's what my directors tell me."

Whereas, Hitomi is a spy and more-or-less assassin for the Chelaxian nobility. While Konnief and Hitomi work at cross purposes, they seem to think the same way.

"Your directors are wise, Konnief," Hitomi says, nodding and pressing her right fist to her left palm in a gesture of respect.

Tovar responds with a big grin.

I tend to think of it as more a lust for life and all its blessings.

You know, it's a common misconception that dwarves prefer drinking ale. Don't get me wrong, we thoroughly enjoy a good mug of ale. But our true love is lager. Think about it. What do you need to make really good lager? A lagering cave! Who has the best caves? Dwarves!! Bet you didn't know that, huh?

I will take your word Tovar. For myself, I will stick to water and the occasional nectarine.

"I've always been partial to the sweet nectar that is wine. There are a few nice wineries in the southern part of the empire."

Janira has sat patiently, rapidly looking at each person who is speaking with general interest. Sensing a lull in the conversation, she speaks up I've always been a bit of a wine snob. Not only do you get the drink, you get the history of each bottle. The wars, the land, who grew the grapes, who made the wine....the how's, who's, and why's!

I'm, excited to take such an experienced group out on this expedition! I have high hopes for not only what we'll find, but, also how you will do. We can leave as soon as your ready if you like, or, I can buy a *few* more rounds at this in. After all, this place drips with Pathfinder history! I mean, just over there She points to a corner table that's where the founders sat! And over there, she points across to a different table Shadow Lodge members began their first sinister plots!

I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm eager to get this show on the road. We can talk history on our trip to Kortos.

Agreed. The sooner we start, the sooner we will have our answers

"It is settled then."

"Awww, but I love hearing people's stories. But I guess you're right."

We will have plenty of time for stories Konnief. It is almost a days walk.

"Almost two days I believe."

Janira hops off her chair, dusts off her pants, and says Ok lets hit the open road!

She grabs an impressive backpack filled full of strange devices ranging from scrolls to potions in a bandoleer. As she straps it to her back she reaches in and draws out several small journals, some ink wells, and a few quills.

Here, each of you take one! Remember to record your discoveries. Its very important that we be able to share our findings when we get back. Your account might be the one that makes it into the Chronicals.

After each of you take a bundle, she leads out out the western gate of the city. Stock up on anything you might need for your journey.

[ooc]Feel free to buy anything you have access to in this city on your way out.[/b]

You spend one day crossing the Cairnlands along well worn paths to Diobel. As you walk, Janira constantly points out rotted siege towers reciting history lessons or points to fauna giving detailed biological lessons. After the first full day of travel, Janira wants to make camp before entering the forest.

Who would like to take which watch?

Janira hops off her chair, dusts off her pants, and says Ok lets hit the open road!

She grabs an impressive backpack filled full of strange devices ranging from scrolls to potions in a bandoleer. As she straps it to her back she reaches in and draws out several small journals, some ink wells, and a few quills.

Here, each of you take one! Remember to record your discoveries. Its very important that we be able to share our findings when we get back. Your account might be the one that makes it into the Chronicles.

After each of you take a bundle, she leads out out the western gate of the city. Stock up on anything you might need for your journey.

[ooc]Feel free to buy anything you have access to in this city on your way out.[/b]

You spend one day crossing the Cairnlands along well worn paths to Diobel. As you walk, Janira constantly points out rotted siege towers reciting history lessons or points to fauna giving detailed biological lessons. After the first full day of travel, Janira wants to make camp before entering the forest.

Who would like to take which watch?

Tossing her meager supplies on the ground, Akashi pauses to stretch for a few moments before answering. I'll take first watch.

Konnief closes her parasol and sets it down. "I'll take the second watch."

Janira pipes up and says Tovar, if you take third watch, I'll cook breakfast while I do last watch. Deal?

That works for me. Wake me when it's my turn.

Tovar flops to the ground and begins softly snoring within moments.

The night passes uneventfully, and you all get a full nights rest. prepare spells as you normally would with no interruptions

The next morning you all awake to the smell of frying bacon and potatoes mixed with some exotic spices. The food is a bit more done then most of you would like, but Janira excitedly give each of you a heaping helping of her cooking in some clay bowls she has brought with her.

After breakfast, Janira washes up and cleans the simple campsite. She takes out a silver compass with the pathfinder society logo I received this wayfinder when I successfully completed my Confirmation. I'm sure you will all earn yours at the end of this trip. She stares at it for a few moments thinking then says Looks like we're on the right path. We need to keep heading northwest now, past those large rocks up ahead.

The forest begins to thicken. Sporadic spathes of light undergrowth provide more and more cover. A canopy begins to develop blotting out the sun.

Staring at the plate in front of her, Akashi hands her portion to Tovar Do you have any potatoes without the bacon? I do not eat meat.

Konnief looks shocked at Akashi and asks, "Why?!"

Hitomi looks up from her meal at the conversation and says, "It is a common enough practice among certain orders of monks in Tian Xia. Each ahs a different reasoning for their dietary restriction. I am sure this one is no different."

Tovar gladly polishes off any leftovers that the others don't want.

Once on the trail, Tovar keeps a sharp eye on his surroundings, looking for trouble.

Janira begins to speak sheepishly I'm really sorry about that. I...didn't know. She spends a few moments separating some potato pieces from meat and hands it to Akashi. This is the best I can do She seems honestly sorry.

what is the marching order and arrangement? When you next post, please post a perception check.

"I don't know the way, but I can help keep a lookout," Konnief volunteers.

Akashi shrugs, pulling several pieces of dried fruit from her pouch. It is okay. Those of my order do not consume of flesh of animals. I brought dried beans, rice and a few others things. I will be fine. In the meantime, I can take point, unless someone else prefers.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24

Hitomi stays off the primary path, keeping to the brush as she shadows the group.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7
Stealth: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (10) + 5 = 15

Konnief opens her parasol and raises it above her head. "Take point. That's a good one." She mouths the words to herself. "Okay, I'll follow behind you."

Perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

A big, hulking bear of a man, with shaggy orange hair, clothed in thick (but immaculately kept!) snow-white furs despite the heat, and with an enormous sword tied across his back, strides over to the fire, towering over most of the party members.

Clicking his heels together, he bows, his movements surprisingly dextrous.

"Greetings, my name Hans Olafsson, and I am from the Land of the Linnorn Kings. I apologise for my tardiness; I am afraid that I am still fairly new to this city - most of my training was abroad - but I am glad to see that I was able to catch-up! If we come across any problems that require blunt force to solve, I can be of great assistance. I should also note that alchemy is something of a passion of mine, so if we run into anything... interesting in that regard, I may be of assistance in identifying it."

Initiative: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (11) + 4 = 15.

Hi?

The more the merrier, I always say! Welcome to the party.

Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (12) + 3 = 15

we've had a late addition, I'm hand waving some of the details, but he's basically traveled with you the whole time.

Akashi and Tovar, you see some creatures moving toward you in the underbrush about 30 feet away. Kisuke has completely disappeared. There are two of them. One to the left and one to the right.

The order in which actions occur is:
Kisuke 21
Tovar 18
Standard 15
Two wolves- 12
Akashi 12
Konnief 6

Akashi and Tovar, you get to act during the surprise round.
Akashi-two wolves breaks cover and runs toward you. attack: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 61d6 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2trip: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (13) + 2 = 15
A second runs tword you and tried to bite you also attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 121d6 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3trip: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

Oh, ho! A welcoming committee! Let's show them what we're made of!

Tovar pulls his warhammer and takes a swing at the closest wolf.

Attack: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (3) + 2 = 5

Whiff!

With two wolves jumping out of the brush and attacking her before she can react, Akashi retaliates by kicking the first one.

Attack: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 4 = 18
Damage: 1d6 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

Bad dog!

There is a solid crack as Akashi's kick hits one wolf (a) hard. Its limping but still in the fight. Same order as before.

Kisuke 21
Tovar 18
Standard 15
Two wolves- 12
Akashi 12
Konnief 6