Using as much cover as he can find Thorne advances towards the 2 Duskwardens in an attempt to over hear any following conversation.
Stealth
Perception
As Alcheringa and Kyren wander off, Jayzeel adresses his fellow Duskwarden
What do you think?
The elf looks intimidating enough...and have you seen that 400 pounds of muscles next to him?
The halfling, heh?
Stop trying to be funny, please. No, the big red cat. I think they could make good assets.
Yup.
Without Thorne, who stays in the shadows, Alcheringa and Kyren make their way back to the Duskwarden's headquarter in Bis District.
The industrious people of the best kept district of all of Kaer Maga, follow their daily routine and the sounds of forges and various other craftsmen businesses fill the air.
Golems of all sizes and shapes stomp, scurry, roll or walk through the streets, but the high frequence of Duskwarden patrols and Ardoc Brotherhood watch golems keeps the stream of people and machines regulated.
Back inside the headquarter at the counter where you received the package, the Duskwarden grins as he notices you
Back with the stamp, huh?
He turns the package around to see if there are any apparent signs of damage
Very good, Mr. elf. My name is Lintorp, I'm responsible for the new recruits and agents. Your first task, carrying this worthless package around without opening it, lies behind you. Now we should speak about some more serious matters, kay?
On the way back, Kyren comments to Alcheringa. I like this kind of work, it seems rather easy. But is the pay any good?
Satisfied the Duskwarden has recieved what he was looking for...
"Lets talk about something more interesting indeed, I appreciate a morning stroll, but lets hear these more serious matters"
Thorne hurrys back towards the group but obviously fails to catch up in time. He unobtrusively waits outside keeping an eye on the entrance for their return.
Stealth
"Lets talk about something more interesting indeed, I appreciate a morning stroll, but lets hear these more serious matters"
If Kyren gets a chance, to talk to Alcheringa alone, he whispers the following, "Strolling sounds like a good job. Are you sure that we want something more interesting than that?"
If the opportunity does not come, Kyren remains silent and follows Alcheringa's clues.
The duskwarden pages through a ladder, then traces some lines with his index finger and pauses
There we have it. We have reports of recent activities of a cult of a strange new god. While this isn't very surprising in a city like Kaer Maga, this cult seems to worship some strange part of Norgorber's portfolio.
It seems like their idol is an exotic, maybe Garundi incarnation of what is commeonly referrred to as Father Skinsaw.
We have found about twelve bodies, strangely mutilated in the Bottoms District and people there start to get uneasy...to say the least.
Interested?
The halfling boat that took you from Riddleport to Kaer Maga comes to a halt with a grinding noise. The sun is already low and her rays try to find a hold on the horizon like a desperate cliffhanger's fingers.
The captain of the small vessel pats your tigh as you both look over to the skyline of the most exotic city in all of northern Golarion.
Here we are boy. This is the City of Strangers, where orcs, gnolls and trolls raom the streets and danger awaits at every streetcorner, heh.
I wouldn't believe half of the stories, yet the other half is horrific enough. Since you are new, maybe you should search for some kind of shelter. I have a nephew in this city, his name's Bobo - works for some kind of creepy magician I think. You can find him at the "Revive for a better Life" in ...ummm ah yes, the Ankar Te District. Strange neighbourhood, I can tell, heh. So fare well and often pray to Desna, heh!
The halflings begin to unload the vessel and you stand just in front of a gigantic gap in a city wall that has dimensions you only know of the fabled arch back home in Riddleport. Only some farmers are left that obviously try to sell some cattle, besides those, the place is pretty deserted.
"Of course he's interested!" The halfling pipes in as he reaches up and pats the elf on the back. "Twelve mutilated bodies?!, Exotic idols?, Father Skinshaw?! This sounds like it would make even the tallest, strongest warriors a little uneasy. In fact, this sounds downright dangerous! If you don't mind me asking, what kind of reward can we expect if we solve this little problem of yours?"
Oh yes, the payment. The Duskwardens pay 300 gp for any clues to the head of the cult, 1000 gp if you stop their doings yourself, respectively.
"That sounds reasonable, and we are available for an immediate start. Where would you like us, and how soon?"
With professional command of bureaucratic affairs the Duskwarden notes some things (including your names) , then closes the file.
Very good. As far as I can see, your little group now consists of five persons?! Since we have another freelancer waiting for a job, you will be accompanied by...
he looks the name up in the file
Bonzo Rozer.
Leaning out of the counter he shouts through the whole antechamber
Mr. Rozer, Bonzo Rozer? Would you please come over here?
A moment later you are joined by a halfling who is accompanied by a strange, dangerous looking entity.
The Duskwarden introduces you shortly
Mr. Rozer, this is a part of the group of adventurers who are going to investigate the case we have spoken about.
Mr. Rozer has just arrived in Kaer Maga and has made the right choice in coming directly to the Duskwardens. But since he is alone, he was waiting for a group of adventurers to join them.
The Bottoms District is in the south of Kaer Maga, you should go and meet Duskwarden Harrister at the Broken Chain Link, as soon as possible.
The Bottoms District formerly was one of the cities most wretched ghettos until the slaves that lived there started to revolt. After a series of bloody uprisings and fights between slavers and slaves, the Bottoms District became independent and all slaves were freed (but only those of this district).
Following the Andoran idea of democracy, the district now has a parliament with elected leaders.
The "Fremen" of the Bottoms try to free slaves in all of Kaer Maga, yet often experience setbacks.
The Broken Chain Link is an inn and one of the most prominent meeting points of the Fremen.
Alcheringa happily provides his name, he refers to Thorne as only 'Spike Slap'
"Rozer can come with us, we are a party in a few senses of the word"
With whoever happens to be following in tow, Alcheringa heads off to meet Duskwarden harrister, filling Thorne in on what the offer was as they move.
In reply to the Duskwarden, the Tosscobble replies, "Kyren . . . the name is Kyren Weatherbee. And may I have the pleasure of your name as well?"
Upon meeting another halfling, Kyren is well pelased. "Well met, Mister Rozer. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. The name is Weatherbee. Kyren Weatherbee." The halfling places his right hand in front of of his belt and bows proudly. "I do not wish to frighten you, but by any chance, are you friends with a rather strange looking, dangerous entity. I hate to mention it otherwise, because there is one such individual standing right behind you."
Knowledge, History
"The Broken Chain Link!" I have heard of this place. This is the famous meeting place where the Fremen gathered to discuss their plans to abolish slavery. This place has become a beacon of hope for those that have ever been enslaved. We . . erh I mean the performing troupe, The Tosscobbles use to sing a song in their concerts called "The Open Door" that made references to this historical place!"
At first sight, Bonzo appears to be a small human child dressed in loose commoner's clothes, but on closer look it is apparent that he is something much more. A strip of cloth is wrapped around his left wrist, and it has been well-worn through its use as a sling. Under his robe, he has stuffed a uniquely-colored dagger into his simple leather belt. Despite his simple appearance, there is a jingle of coin to his pocket, and slung across his shoulder is a burlap sack filled to the brim with food and fine wine.
Standing behind him and towering over his small Halfling frame, there is a muscular, hulking humanoid figure. Wild dark red hair sprouts from her scalp, coming out in several different lengths and hues. Her skin pigment ranges from dark purple to light pink, and her muscular limbs hang loosely at her sides, heavy claws swinging low past her waist. An Eidolon born for physical combat, she hangs closely behind Bonzo, keeping an eye out for danger.
"Hiya, chaps. Thanks for takin' me on with such short notice, 'cause I'm in desperate need for some work, ye'know? This here is Donna," he motions to the figure behind him, "And she'll be helpin' us out, as well."
Bonzo is also pleased to meet another Halfling. "Weatherby, you say? As the Duskwarden already blabbed about, my name is Bonzo Rozer of the Rozer Family. I'm from the Riddleport area, but Donna and I are after our Big Adventure and we somehow wound up here!" The Halfling shuffles his feet as he talks, obviously getting excited. "So, what's the job? What're we doing? Also, Donna wants to know when we smash things?"
"Extraordinary, Blaze! The humans were like peacock, always pecking and fawning around their roosters... but these Halflings are like...lint. You get one small bit, and before you know it, they're everywhere!"
"Oh, we are off to find some murdering cultists. Possibly to exterminate them like rats in a hole"
"Rozer, you say? Are you any relation to the Rozers of Whistledown? I once met a friendly bunch of Rozers there. But tell me, where in the world did you find a red headed hulking humanoid to walk around and protect you? They look very helpful, especially for big adventures. Does it talk? Do you think you could persuade it to protect me as well?"
Also, I was wondering how you would like to deal with the Eidolon? Should I have complete control of her as a part of my character, or should you control her as an NPC during social situations, or as an NPC all of the time?"
"Oh, Donna and I go way back. And yes, she can talk. Her and I are like partners: we're not really the same when we're not together: isn't that right, Donna?" the young Halfling turns around to look at the towering Eidolon.
She smiles reassuringly, and nods her head, "Yes." She smiles down on Kyren, her teeth just a little too jagged to gaze on comfortably, "I can talk, and as long as you're helping us out, I'll help you out as best I can in return."
Bonzo continues, speaking rapidly still, "The Rozers of Whistledown, you say? It's hard to keep track of them all, but I think my cousins Ferrow and Doan passed through there a few seasons back. Maybe they settled down for a bit?"
We should treat her as if she was able to speak.
I'd prefer you play her in all situation.
Well, we have had a full morning already, shall we head back to the Revive for second breakfast? Bonzo, just wait until you meet my cousin, Bobo. He makes hot pancakes that melt in your mouth just like my Grammy Lulu use to make them!
** spoiler omitted **
1. Breakfast
2. Morning Tea
3. Second Breakfast
4. Elevensees
5. Lunch
6. Afternoon Tea
7. Dinner
8. Desert
9. Afters
"Brunch"
"High Tea"
"Suppah"
and the little-known "Filling In the Cracks" (typically after "Afters")
@ Vaughn:
It doesn't take much to get the info you wanted. Ankar Te seems to be one of the city's most important, yet wretched districts.
As you make your way through Downmarket District and enter Ankar Te you feel like you just teleported to another plane.
Zombie slaves at every street corner, carrying palanquins, fanning fresh air to their masters, cleaning the streets, carrying heavy loads and so on - pretty much every lesser task is done by a zombie.
But the bustling streets are not only crowded by undeads: trolls, gnolls, orcs and goblins also roam the narrow streets of the district which lies entirely inside the titanic city walls.
The abscence of light also fuels the gloomy atmosphere of the place and you have at least encountered six processions of strange religious cults until you reach the Revive at last.
@ Party:
As you make your way through Downmarket District and enter Ankar Te you feel like you just teleported to another plane.
Wow, I thought *I* grew up in a tough neighborhood!! This is effing CRAZY!!
Vaughn walks around warily. He's street-smart enough not to show a lot of nervousness, but he still keeps his right hand on one of his many daggers.
He tries to find the Revive as quickly as possible; in this town, he definitely wants a "home base." Despite his discomfort with Captain Yarbly's familiarity, the undead roaming the streets give Vaughn a full blown case of the Heebie Jeebies, so seeking out an even slightly familiar face is a welcome thought.
He quickly enters the inn and looks for a halfling worker.
Bonzo is bouncing up and down with barely-concealed excitement on the walk to this strange new place, which Kyren called the Revive. "It is good to find myself in such good company after such a long journey! And with proper meals, as well? I've been living in abnormal conditions, lately, and I didn't even notice until now."
@ Vaughn:
At last you found the building...but...mhhh...no, that is surely not an inn. As you knock and enter, you find yourself in a large room that is full of cushioned seatings in all colours of the rainbow.
A halfling peeks out of a door at the opposite end of the room. He reminds you of a cherub with his rosy cheeks and his small snub nose.
He wears the vestments of a cook and yells through the room
Hey you, if you're coming to sell a corpse or want your mommy reanimated - no! We don't do in that business anymore. Worsh is dead and my new boss will use this house as his private home.
Hey you, if you're coming to sell a corpse or want your mommy reanimated - no! We don't do in that business anymore. Worsh is dead and my new boss will use this house as his private home.
Oh . . . uh . . . sorry, no. I mean . . . um, are you Bobo? I was told by Yarbly . . . that is, Captain Yarbly . . . your cousin? . . . I might look you up for a place to stay? I thought the "Revive for a Better Life" was an inn or hostel or something. Do you know Bobo? Am I in the right place?
Bonzo is bouncing up and down with barely-concealed excitement on the walk to this strange new place, which Kyren called the Revive. "It is good to find myself in such good company after such a long journey! And with proper meals, as well? I've been living in abnormal conditions, lately, and I didn't even notice until now."
"Bonzo. I am glad you are enjoying yourself so much. I think we are going to have a grand time as long as those big folk don't get too serious. I'm not worried about Alcheringa. In fact, if it wasn't for his height, I would think that he is part halfling." Kyren lowers his voice and looks around to see that Stryke is out of earshot. "That fella Thorne, on the other hand, has a name that couldn't fit much better. It is best to give him a wide berth if you know what I mean. You should have seen his cold reaction when I made up a song about him. Later on, I will sing it for you, but at the moment, I don't think he would appreciate it. I am trying to decide, but I think he would beat uncle Longrumps in a sour puss competition. I am still trying to think of some ways to cheer him up. Perhaps you could help me. Well, besides the company, the best part we have going for us is that Bobo will keep us well fed! We just have to stop him from experimenting on us. If you keep him focussed on the traditional foods, we'll make out just fine!"
The halfling's countenance lightens up as you name the captain
Ha! Desna speed you my hitherto unknown friend. Come in, come in and tell me how uncle Yarbly fares - is he well? What about Laurie, Tottle, cousin Derek and the rest?
Throwing his hat back into the room, he peeked out, he asks an additional question
Oh, wanna try my newest "creation de la cusine"? Swine snout with almond paste coating!
Then, slapping his forehead, he says
Oh, where did I forget my good upbringing...my name's Bobo, former servant of the great animater Esulan Worsh, now, umm, accomplice of a dangerous band of adventurers.
Ha! Desna speed you my hitherto unknown friend. Come in, come in and tell me how uncle Yarbly fares - is he well? What about Laurie, Tottle, cousin Derek and the rest?
*blink* *blink* Well, I only know Yarbly, and he not very well . . . we chatted a bit on my passage from Riddleport. He seems well enough to me. Come to think of it, he mentioned a lot of names, and Tottle rings a bell--he's recovering from a sprained elbow when he was fighting off a mugger, but he's OK. In fact, I think he managed to pinch some money himself in the process!
Oh, wanna try my newest "creation de la cusine"? Swine snout with almond paste coating!
Hells yeah, my little friend! I'm starving!!
Oh, where did I forget my good upbringing...my name's Bobo, former servant of the great animater Esulan Worsh, now, umm, accomplice of a dangerous band of adventurers.
*shakes his hand* Vaughn Elliot. Nice to know ya. Dangerous band of adventurers, eh? I'm looking for work . . . *fingers one of his daggers unconsciously* . . . you know if they're looking for any muscle?
While already scurrying back into the kitchen, he shouts back
Oh yeah, I mean, you look dangerous enough...I mean dangerous enough, while still very friendly...not to say charismatic...
after a moment or two, Bobo returns with a plate full of snouts that have a light brown coating.
Ha! Here it is - best served ice cold! Now please be a gourmet, try it and tell me what you think of it.
He hops on a purple pile of pillows and ponders about the news you brought
So a sprained elbow you say? Typically Tottle...I bet aunt Vera gave him a real telling-off, heh.
Suddenly he rises from his pillows like a rocket and grabs a mop that lay next to him, pretending to be cleaning the room.
Just a whiff later a group of persons enter and Bobo exclaims
Phew, Master Alexite is not with you? Then I can stop wasting my energy with tidying up and get over to more serious matters - anyone hungry?
"Right, you are, Kyren! I always try not to worry about the seriousness of the big people: it makes things so much more complicated than they need to be. At least with this Thorne fellow, we should be able to understand what's going on in his head easily-enough, even if it might be an unpleasant glimpse into his character each time."
When they arrive at the Revive, Bonzo excitedly exclaims, "Is this it?" and he and Donna follow the group inside. He introduces himself to Bobo and Vaughn, "Hi there chaps, my name is Bonzo and this here is Donna. We're new to town, and looking for a way to launch us off onto the first leg of our Big One. Can I help out with anything? Donna and I are a great labor team!"
Phew, Master Alexite is not with you? Then I can stop wasting my energy with tidying up and get over to more serious matters - anyone hungry?
You enter to see a teenage human with a platterful of brown-paste-covered pig snouts on the table next to him, with one he'd just popped into his mouth which he's chewing thoughtfully. He seems a little overwhealmed and taken aback when you troupe in.
He's not a particularly good-looking or well-kempt fellow, but his breastplate is in serviceable repair. He's got a bandolier of several daggers, a hammer at each hip, and a decent bow on his back. He's got quite a physique and moves with a quick grace.
He looks a little puzzled at Bobo, and is looking back and forth between you guys, Bobo, and the plate of snouts (which he seems to decide he likes because he eyes you one more time, and grabs another one before he's done chewing the first).
He speaks around a mouthful of almond-pasted pig nose. Mmff--Bobo, these are the 'venchurers? . . .mmm, sorry. . . these are pretty good, 'shouldtry em . . . *gulp* Sorry. Hi there. Uh, Bobo here tells me you all are dangerous adventurers. I'm looking for just that kind of work! Name's Vaughn Elliot. Wanna pig snout? They're pretty good!
Bobo happily pats Vaughn on the shoulder
At last! Someone who is open for experimental cooking. See Kyren, I bet he also likes my carrion slugs...mhhh where did I put them...whatever, I can make new ones whenever I want, heh!
Turning to Bonzo and his bodyguard he furrows his brows
Welcome to the Revive fellow "halfpint" as Thorne would put it. What a nice...ummm...girlfriend you have. I bet you'd like to taste my new "chocolate flavour, yet made of minotaur hoof cookies", am I right?
Kyren steps into the 'Revive' and immediately notices the young teenager eating pig snout.
Kazam! He shouts. "Bobo! . . . Cousin, get out here this minute! What in the blazes are you feeding the guests?!! What is that goo coming out of that pig nose? Never mind, I don't want to know. Have you forgotten what a good home cooked meal was? Your pancakes were great, but your cooking has slipped off a cliff in the short time I have been gone! Tell me, Cuz, are you having trouble getting decent groceries? Tell us if you need help, and we will go on an adventure to get some decent provisions.
In a graceful swinging motion, Kyren removes his cloak and tosses onto a nearby chair. "Forgive my rudeness, young fellow. I am Kyren Weatherbee at your service. The halfling places his right hand on his belly and bows down to greet mister Elliot.
Kyren is a handsome, but hardy looking halfling. He has a twinkle in his bright blue eyes and he is very well dressed. He wears a small chain around his neck with a little pendant on it and he has two golden earrings in his right ear.
"Where is home for you, my desperately hungry young man?"
"Bobo! . . . Cousin, get out here this minute! What in the blazes are you feeding the guests?!! What is that goo coming out of that pig nose? Never mind, I don't want to know. Have you forgotten what a good home cooked meal was? Your pancakes were great, but your cooking has slipped off a cliff in the short time I have been gone!
*still brushing off almond paste crumbs and swallowing* These are really pretty tasty! You should try one.
"Where is home for you, my desperately hungry young man?"
*at this Vaughn looks clearly uncomfortable* After a bit of a pause . . .
Honest truth? Nowhere. I just got into this . . . crazy town looking for some *honest* work. (Vaughn puts a heavy emphaiss--in fact, spits out the word--"honest") But I only just got here and am looking for a home base, and then a job. I already found some good eats! *looks at the pig snout in his hand, bites off half and chews happily* An iff nife to fee fome "normal" people inftead of all thoz creepy fombief an monfterf out vere . . sorry, theve are good!! *eats the rest* Whaf *yer* ftory?
Silent as a shadow until he almost trips over one of Bobo's discarded ladles, Thorne enters the establishment.
Stealth
Snarling angrily he turns to launch a blistering stream of abuse towards the kitchen when his eyes fall onto ... Donna
Visibly straightening and preening he whistles appreciatively and introduces himself to her.
"Well hello there ye pretty little thing you. May I introduce meself - my name is Thorne, Thorne Stryke". Doffing his hat in a graceful bow ruined only by the greasy writhing of his hair, he straightens and adds, "May I dares ask like, for the pleasure of your name and company? BOBO! Your finest vintage and best food for this ravishing beauty! MOVE BLAST YE!" Turning back to her he swarvely adds "There are Marilith princesses I have known that aint as fine as you babe ... BOBO WHERE IN THE HELLS IS THAT FOOD!!!!"
Diplomacy to make a favourable impression ...
Alcheringa notes everyone sitting down and munching, and is obviously pleased at the wisdom of having full bellies and good provisions.
"So welcome to our circle, Brothers, we have been tasked by the Duskwardens to investigate recent activities of a cult, possibly of a new god, possibly worshipers focused on some part of Norgorber's faith.
Their idol is possibly from the Garundi peoples incarnation of Father Skinsaw."
Alcheringa tosses a pig nose to his Firepelt greatcat off handedly.
"They, if we are correct in laying the fault, have killed and mutilated about twelve victims over in the Bottoms District, a reward paid for information, and more paid for...weeding the garden"
Coming downstairs, Torald hears the words of Alcheringa.
An interesting task you have gotten here, Alcheringa. Seems to be a task which is worth to be attended.
I see, that we have here some new faces. May I introduce me. Torald Othric of Griffonstone.
Trying to anser Kyren answer Kyren, yet interrupted by Thorne's yells and threats, Bobo throws his arms high up in despair and runs in the kitchen.
From inside he shouts back at Thorne
And what do you suspect the lady would like? And does she need a knive or will she just cut the roast with that scissorhands? Pah, the only ones that kept their wits are the nice new fellow and the kitty cat...!
I see, that we have here some new faces. May I introduce me. Torald Othric of Griffonstone.
Torald . . . Alcheringa . . . Bonzo . . .Donna . . .Thorne . . . Kyren . . . pleased to meetchy'all. I'm Vaughn, Vaughn Elliot. I'm looking for some honest work, and it sounds like you've got a job that fits that bill. If you want some extra muscle, I know how to handle myself in a fight--and where I come from, the more in the fight, the merrier! You got room for another mook? I can fight, and throw and shoot a little too.
Donna turns to face Thorne, and casts a skeptical eye over him. Then, as he continues to flatter and fret over her, her stony-cold face turns to a slightly-relaxed grin, and she says, "Thorne. My name is Donna. I like your toy," she says, gesturing to his masterfully-crafted crossbow, smiling her sincerity. Then, in response to food, "No wine for me. Meat for now, please."
Bonzo is quick to introduce himself to Torald, as well, "I'm Bonzo, me an'Donna are here to help with what you guys have going, already."
"And as for these cultists: if they've really gone this far, and we can pin their crimes to them, what the hell are we waiting for?"
“Well, I am pleased to meet you, Torald Othric of Griffonstone." The well dressed halfling bows deeply and replies, “I am Kyren Weatherbee. I respond to the name Mr. Weatherbee if you say it loud enough, however, I am much more responsive if you simply call me as my family does . . Kyren. So tell me Mr. Othric, where is this place called Griffonstone? Does it have a statue of a griffon in the town?”
" Why thank you - the weapon was a 'gift' from my father." Licking his eyebrows with his forked tongue he adds, "And that's no ALL the gifts my father gave me if you get my drift, savvy?" learing at her. Turning back towards the kitchen Thorne roars,
"BOBO ya BLASTED HALF-PINT!! Bring meat! MEAT!! and lots of it for the delectable lady here! The lady ... and here he sighs with an almost dreamy look in his eyes, DONNA . Donna. No sweeter sound have I heard even torn from the lips of tortured souls in the Abyss, no cry of an Achaierai on the hunt for a renegade devil has such beauty carried in it. Donna. A name worthy of such a creature of delectable destruction as yourself ... BOBO if we have to wait an instant longer I'm gonna serve YOU up to her on a spit - apples in both ends and over a slow fire! SAVVY!!!