DaWay's PFS First Steps (Group 1) (Inactive)

Game Master DaWay

419 gold 2 PP

"How long will this trip take, and will we have time to gather supplies?"

"Sounds like a long journey, and Cayden always enjoyed a good wandering. Not likely to many pubs along the way though... Hrm."

The priest of the Lucky Drunk looks appraisingly at Zoltan, trying to figure out how many casks of whiskey he could carry and still fight effectively.

"Let us head to see Grandmaster Torch then, he might have more specifics about what we're to do."

It should take you no more than 7 or 8 days to reach Escadar, giving
us at least another 20 days to complete the deal. You will indeed have time to gather supplies

At the Siphons you meet with Grandmaster Torch the leader of the Shadow Lodge, who operates out of a network of subterranean tunnels beneath the water-logged Absalom district of the Puddles. Finding the Siphons requires no special skill but does take the Pathfinders though the Puddles’ rough-and-tumble, flooded streets and into the sewers below.
A gruff half-orc guard grants you entry into Torch’s audience chamber in the Siphons, a large stone room that has been magically rid of all standing water or even airborne moisture. Torch, a dark-haired, burn-covered man in his late-middle years sits in a large bathtub, and two attendants continually pour cool water over his cursed, festering wounds. His half-orc bodyguards eye the PCs warily as the Grandmaster rises to greet them and speaks.

“Well met, Pathfinders. I see you have survived as the Decemvirate’s pawns thus far, and for that I commend you. This next task they have for you is more dangerous than the venture-captain may have told you, so let me give you a word of warning. I have made it my life’s work to ensure Pathfinder agents are given all the tools they need to return home from their myriad adventures, and this map is the tool I give you. Follow the directions on my map as strictly as you can. Deviate from this path and you may encounter challenges far beyond your abilities. Many would paint me and those who believe like I do as betrayers of the Society, but it is the corps of the organization that I am completely loyal to. Each and every one of you.

“If you believe you have been mistreated by the Ten or their representatives, don’t hesitate to let me know upon your return from Escadar. My network of agents and spies if vast, and I am a powerful ally to have on your side.

”Now be off. You have a long journey ahead of you. And remember, don’t deviate from this map—it’s designed to get you there and back safely!”

"Thank you, Grandmaster, for your assistance and advice. How long will it take us to travel the path, and are there opportunities for resupply while we are out?"

It should take you no more than 7 or 8 days to reach Escadar, giving

us at least another 20 days to complete the deal. You will indeed have time to gather supplies

There will be no where to resupply until you reach Escadar.

8 days?? Damn, we better stock up on booze and food! Zoltan previously had no idea how far Escadar was, but clearly the idea of being undernourished and potentially uninebriated more than startled the gladiator. Well, let's get supplies and head out!

Zoltan is stocking up on rations and liquor for the trip, 10 days rations and a 3-Gallon whiskey cask. He has plenty weight allowance left

Sorry, wanted to be sure that Torch didn't have some super shortcut. Time to get packing.

"Grandmaster, is it possible to take a pack animal on the route you're providing for us?"

You may however I believe there is a series of cliffs at which you may have to abandon the animal.

Let me know of any purchases you would like to make and I will advance the story

Another week's worth of rations and a mw backpack to put it all in. And it sounds like we'll need rope, too.

Vanyel looks over the map for other indications of terrain the party will need special gear for--cliffs, marshes, etc.

cliffs, marshes, stream crossing.

A man of Garundi descent, walking with a cane, who claims to suffer from a maladay of the heart that has rendered his right side weakened, introduces himself as Nester Rees. He informs you that he is ready to leave whenever you ready but suggests you travel light to speed the journey across the island to the village of Pier's End.

Not being very strong, Vanyel gets four days of regular elven trail rations and four days of wandermeal.

Grabbing 2 weeks of rations, plus travel gear.

The Cairnlands, a broken landscape of blood-salted earth and the ruins of countless failed assaults on Absalom’s walls, soon yields to open fields and fertile ground. Ahead, a vast forest covers the foothills of large range of snow-capped mountains. The well-trodden road soon ends at a tall wall of trees, signaling the end of civilization.

Patrolling these lands is a group of three centaurs who spot the group and begin an approach. While they have weapons in hand they make no hostile gestures.

Arjunta buys two weeks of travel rations, a small cask of whiskey (5 gallons), and a couple of extra tankards.

"Half-human, half-horse creatures. Very interesting."

Arjunta unshoulders his sacks of food, holding onto his polearm loosely but making no threatening actions.

What are your intentions going through the Centaur woods? The lead centaur asks, after given an answer he replies You should be warned that there is a predator in these woods. The cat has threatened our food supplies, you should turn back unless you wish to risk death.

Hey look, horse-men! Zoltan chimed in observantly as the creatures trotted closer. The gladiator waited as the centaurs closed, and listened to their words. We've got an important meeting in Escadar, then we're on to a bar in..er...somewhere. Anyway, that takes us through these woods. Don't you worry, we're friendly! No need to get antsy. Besides, whose afraid of a cat?? I kinda like cats actually, they're furry and usually don't scratch you. Plus they just drink cream, so if you just leave them the cream and you find other food...problem solved! See, we're friendly AND helpful! Unless ya got other problems to solve, we'll just get goin'.

"We have been warned in no uncertain terms against deviating from our path, so I suppose we shall have to take our chances with the cat. Thank you very much for the warning."

Purchased Cold-Weather Outfit, Furs, Canteen, Smoked Goggles, 7 Days Rations, and 3 Potions of CLW.

Ryster begins to sneeze uncontrollably when the centaurs arrive. Are there horses about? He looks around and spies the centaurs. [b]Oh, nevermind..[b] he say quietly while continuing to sneeze.

"Perhaps this cat will attack us, and I will spit it upon my blade. Then, Zoltan will have a friend to hug and squeeze." Arjunta chuckles at the thought of a cat able to threaten such large creatures...oblivious to things like lions, tigers, and such.

Either way, you've been warned. And with that the three centaurs ride off.

Further along your journey, The sound of running water echoes ahead, and several muted beams of light pierce the thick forest canopy. Soon the dense forest opens, revealing a river that blocks the way forward. A large felled tree trunk offers a way over the swift moving river. With the exception of the rushing sound of the water, an eerie silence pervades the area, as does the fresh smell of death.

"This seems like a natural ambush point. The smell of blood and death proves it to me. Be on your guard, everyone."

Arjunta shifts his grip on his polearm, looking around the small clearing and river crossing.

"So, Zoltan. You first or me first?"

Vanyel eyes the fallen tree suspiciously. "Could we, perhaps, cut down another tree to bridge the river?"

I think it'll be fine, though I'd like someone to string a rope across. Can't risk gettin me powder wet.

Well, choppin' down trees is hard work, and I didn't bring an axe. Ah hell, crossing here can't be too bad. Let's just go. With that said, Zoltan gets up onto the large tree trunk and then proceeds to make his way across the river. At the last moment, he takes out his rope on Ryster's request and strings it behind him as he goes.

"There you go, Gladiator! That's the spirit!"

Arjunta scans the riverbank and treeline closely, looking for movement or any hostile action. Drawing a javelin, he loosely holds both the ranged weapon and polearm, ready to attack in either fashion.

Ryster follows Zoltan over the log.

Take Ten on Acrobatics for 10

Taking a swig of whiskey before grabbing the rope and heading across, the priest of the Lucky Drunk says, "Blessings of the Wanderer upon us all as we take the difficult path..."

Brother Felinros will use his Agile Feet ability if it will help in this circumstance, otherwise he will take 10 for a 10 while using the rope.

Both Ryster and Brother Felinros make it safely across the river.

"Hrmph... didn't take long for us to get our feet wet.", quips the wizard has he uses the barbarian's rope to pull himself along the river.
Taking 10 on my Acrobatics as well for a total of 12

The elf follows the other wizard, taking 10 for a result of 12.

After everyone is across, Zoltan recoils his rope and puts it away. We made it! I think that calls for a drink, eh, Padre? The gladiator pours out a shot of whiskey for all interested and takes a swig himself before re-shouldering his pack and moving forward with the group.

Arjunta stows all his gear and makes sure everything is tied down securely before grabbing Zoltan's rope and stumbling across.

1d20 - 3 ⇒ (18) - 3 = 15 acrobatics

"This sort of activity is not my strength."

"I believe we have neglected our charge. Master Rees, what assistance do you require to cross?"

After master rees makes it across with your assistance. You follow the trail laid out for you for sometime however it is getting late. Might be a good time to think about a camp.

"Let us find a good spot to rest our heads for the night. We should set up a watch schedule as well."

I'll take first watch if no one minds. I needs me beauty sleep. the dwarf chortles.

Sounds good to me! I'll take the last watch; just a little sleep and a good strong eyeopener in the morning and I'll be good as new. Zoltan then assists efforts to look around for a camp site and hunt down food. He'll Take 10 on a survival check (13 total) if needed

"I will take first watch with you, Ryster."

"Hmm, assuming we get plenty of rest, I suppose I should do my part at the end with Mr. Ceausescu. I can use that time to go over my arcana at the very least."

Who's Mr. Ceausescu?? Zoltan's puzzled expression gives way to insight ever so slowly. Oh wait, that's me! Alrighty, Fancy Pants, welcome to the best watch! I just dare 'em to come at us then!

"I will join Royster on the first watch... I agree that two sets of eyes are better than one on any watch."

"I do not care which watch I take. I will only need help to don my armor, so a second person would be especially helpful. Unless the off going person would stay a few moments to assist me."

1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26 perception (assuming awake. -10 to that if asleep)
1d20 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3 initiative (if needed).

Ryster, Vanyeal 1d100 ⇒ 76
Arjunta, Felinros 1d100 ⇒ 3
Zoltan, Mathias 1d100 ⇒ 21

During the second watch 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25 Arjunta you notice the cat sneaking up on the group. You and Felinros may act during the surprise round.

1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14

Felinros shouts, "Wake and to arms, wild creatures attack!" then casts Shield of Faith upon himself.

DC 1 Perception to hear the shout: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (1) - 1 = 0

Aaaaaand I rolled the 1...

Mathias turns to the other side in his bedroll; the wizard obviously takes resting to recharge his arcane energies seriously.

"Here, kitty, kitty! Time to die on my spear!"

Arjunta readies his bec de corbin against the charging cat.

Ready to receive charge: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9 to hit, 2d10 + 12 ⇒ (4, 9) + 12 = 25 damage

"Come here and face me, you dumb cat!"

Zoltan's Perception Check to wake up 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (18) + 3 = 21

Hey, what's all the racket for??! Zoltan shouts back in groggy agitation. The gladiator staggered out of his tent to look around bleary-eyed.

Initiative 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4

Discussion open.

please pm your pathfinder number for your character and emails.

Shinkeer reporting in.

Vanyel checking in.

It might take me a day or two to check everyone's sheet and make sure it's legal. If experience PFS people want to volunteer to help it would be greatly appreciated.

Hollah!

Gotcha

Pm sent

Eying everyone as he walks in, the fair-skinned man bows politely, never lowering his eyes. "Greetings. I am Mathias of the Kelythis family. You will find me a viable companion on our journey today, but I expect the same from you."

We're in!

Pass the whiskey!

Brother Felinros ambles up to the table and pulls out a bottle of whiskey saying with a glassy-eyed grin, "Its time for worship for those who wish it, and I'd suggest that you all look like sinners in need of baptism. Caylen told me that I'd be finding companions to drink and adventure with and I guess that's you lot. I lost me old Harrowing, so that blessing is off, but the blessing of the Spirit is one we can all enjoy before whatever dangers we face."

With that Felinros begins to pass around what you assumed, correctly, was his holy symbol - a large covered flagon worn around his neck. He twists the cover open, and you see it that flagon too is full of whiskey and the good Brother is looking to share with his new compatriots.

"...Thank you, Priest."

Arjunta sips the whiskey and cracks a smile. He still doesn't say much more than that, though.

Bald and bull-like, Zoltan ambles up to the bar where the priest prepares the blessing. Cayden bless us! It is good to have a man o' the cloth here with us, and a fellow Varisian no less! Make it a double for me, seems ta clear my head a bit. The large man downs a large swig, the flask looking small in the grasp of Zoltan's tattooed, meaty hand. Ahhh...now I be's ready to travel! The man's voice booms across the room.

"A bit early to celebrate, isn't it Caylenite? We haven't even been given our assignment.", questions the Chelaxian with a raised eyebrow.

The tall elf quirks the corner of his mouth in a lopsided smile. "The sun rose this morning, and that's enough of a cause celebre for the devoted Caydenite. Or so I have been assured."

Shaking his head, Mathias reaches over for the flask and takes a sip, eyeballing the others near him and gauging them.

Hmmm... the elf seems to be the only other worth a stimulating conversation. A couple of meatshields, though the Shoanti looks to have a better head on his broad shoulders. Tengu is a wildcard; guess the Society is letting 'bout anyone in to fill in numbers after the Shadow Lodge debacle. And a pilgrim for some divine support. Useful, although I'm sure he'll be an earful.

"Caylenites are usually too capricious for my blood... but I can't argue with their taste in drinks."

"There is a goodly difference between worship and celebration, this is simply a blessing on our prospects not a celebration of our assured success. The Lucky Drunk only blesses a journey that begin with the right state of mind." And with that, the good Brother takes a swig and passes the cup.

"As long as that state of mind is 'success', then all will be well... I have to admit, I'm not well versed Cayden Cailean. What do representatives of the Lucky Drunk title themselves as?"

A tengu walks in and sets his battered looking firearm standing in the corner. He approaches the group. Greetings, I am Shinkeer, could I partake of the.."festivities"?

"Of course! Cayden is free with his his blessings and all our companions are welcome to them. The journey always goes better with a drink to start the way..."

at the doctors now so I am posting from my phone. Will update what people need to do based on what i've seen and the help rendered. expect a post from me tonight. As soon as everyone has fixed their characters we may begin.

ok for this group, still needs some attention. I apologize been a long day with work and the kiddo, and I found out I have a hairline fracture on my femur. Stupid ice. Silver lining, more time to devote to the game for a couple days.

Shinkeer Aswander You're good to go

Arjunta I need what character this is for you. Also I have 12 gp left for you, you show 3 gp.

Thanks to Shinkeer for the help.

Brother Felinros. No glaring mistakes unless I've missed something you're good.

Zoltan Ceasescu. Two things, I am not sure if Perform Gladiator is PFS legal, and I believe you're "racial" language would be Shoanti not Varisian. Otherwise I think you are good.

Vanyel. Looks good.

Mathias Kelythis. I cannot remember if Chelish is a language or they use infernal, either way you get that as a free language at character creation because it is your regional language. Otherwise I think you are good.

I will change Arjunta's GP.

This is my first official PFS character.

@DaWay: First off...owww! RE: Femur fracture; that seriously sucks.

This is my first PFS PC too, so mistakes were bound to happen. I'll re-look traits then, since that is where perform came from. One of his traits (Varisian Wanderer) states that he can get a Perform skill as a class skill. Perform (other) is an option on the PFS varient of Herolab, so I selected that and made the "other" gladiator. But maybe Perform (Other) is not allowable in PFS. Not really a big deal, just wanted to bring out his showmanship a bit.

As for the racial language, why would it be Shoanti when Varisian is his race?

according to the PRD
Perform
(Cha)

You are skilled at one form of entertainment, from singing to acting to playing an instrument. Like Craft, Knowledge, and Profession, Perform is actually a number of separate skills. You could have several Perform skills, each with its own ranks.

Each of the nine categories of the Perform skill includes a variety of methods, instruments, or techniques, a small sample of which is provided for each category below.

Act (comedy, drama, pantomime)
Comedy (buffoonery, limericks, joke-telling)
Dance (ballet, waltz, jig)
Keyboard instruments (harpsichord, piano, pipe organ)
Oratory (epic, ode, storytelling)
Percussion instruments (bells, chimes, drums, gong)
String instruments (fiddle, harp, lute, mandolin)
Wind instruments (flute, pan pipes, recorder, trumpet)
Sing (ballad, chant, melody)

So I could see gladiator being Act, Comedy, or Dance but that is just my opinion.

As for the racial language sorry got you and another character confused. Plus the profile pic got me a little confused. So it looks like you just need a PFS legal perform skill and you are good.

@DaWay: First off...owww! RE: Femur fracture; that seriously sucks.

This is my first PFS PC too, so mistakes were bound to happen. I'll re-look traits then, since that is where perform came from. One of his traits (Varisian Wanderer) states that he can get a Perform skill as a class skill. Perform (other) is an option on the PFS varient of Herolab, so I selected that and made the "other" gladiator. But maybe Perform (Other) is not allowable in PFS. Not really a big deal, just wanted to bring out his showmanship a bit.

As for the racial language, why would it be Shoanti when Varisian is his race?

Zoltan, you can take Profession other, Gladiator. At the end of the game you can make a Day Job roll for a little extra cash. The profession does nothing for you ingame though.

Just waiting on a language for Mathias.

yes, but he wants perform other not profession other. I know there is any profession you want but I only see the nine choices for perform.

Ahh, missed the trait part, thought he was going for flavor

Nah, I'll just dump Varisian Wanderer Trait for Berserker of the Society (gives 3 more rounds of rage). Makes things easier. Revision on profile will happen tonight.

They do say fighting is a deadly dance

Well, the Perform (Gladiator) idea WAS for flavor, but isn't a big deal for the character. Frankly this is more to try out PFS than for a particular flair. It's all good.

I apologize about all the book keeping guys, I know you just want to get to the game. Just have to make sure everything is correct.

No problem, DW. Today was kind of rushed for me, too--not a broken femur (ow!), but I spent most of the morning doing a safety inspection and then went home sick and spent most of the afternoon passed out. My kids have bequeathed me their cold, and the walking didn't do much good.

Incidentally, I'm posting from GMT-5 or -6, depending (US Central time zone). Where's everyone else coming from?

I'm EST

Me too (EST), but I travel sometimes. Mostly I'll be posting during the workday. Weekends will be slower.

EST

MST, can and will check this during work, and either weekend nights or mornings, and thanks for reminding me; it's Infernal as the regional bonus language.

Also, take care DaWay! Haven't had a GM die on me yet and I'll be damned if that occurs during a PbP!

ok so everyone on this thread is good to go. post will be up shortly in the gameplay thread.

and we're off.

So I am attempting to get more technilogically saavy with running pbp's. Does anyone have a way of helping me display editable maps for y'all.

Arr you using Google Drive?

no, is it user friendly?

Kinda, what are you using? I'm using Google Drive, I had to stab around for a while, but I'm not the most tech savvy. Once I got the hang of it, not too bad.

Very much so. I use the spreadsheet function, shrinking the columns so each cell is roughly square, and using the background to set square colors. Then I set sharing privileges so that anyone with the link can look at the map; see HERE for an example.

I really don't use anything. I tend to go for descriptive combat more, years of playing vampire and werewolf.

For people with heavily position-dependent abilities, it can be tough to work w/o maps. It isn't as important with Vanyel, but I have a trip monkey with a reach weapon in another PFS game who could have trouble with that approach. Unless we have someone like that in the party I'd suggest starting out w/o maps and seeing how well that works.

I have seen the spreadsheet and it definitely works. You can also copy the image from the scenario and use create drawing in Drive, then Insert Image. To paste though, you have to use Cntrl-V, just right clicking doesn't work. Took me two days to figure that out.