GM Dak - PFS First Steps: III (Inactive)

Game Master Dakcenturi

After a few days rest and time to yourselves you each receive a message from Ambrus Valin to report to Venture-Captain Drandle Dreng for a new mission.

In the heart of the Pathfinder Society’s headquarters at Skyreach, Venture-Captain Drandle Dreng, a wiry old man with a wild gray beard and glinting eyes, sits on a large plush bench next to a finely dressed, full-figured woman who looks as though this entire meeting isn’t worth her time. Dreng warmly greets you and introduces you to the woman, Lady Gloriana Morilla; the Taldan woman tilts her head slightly in acknowledgement of the introduction, but otherwise makes no move to greet anyone. Oblivious to any social slight on the lady’s part, Dreng goes on to explain the mission.

“Recently, a contact from the Low Azlanti embassy in Escadar approached us with an offer. It seems they have discovered a unique relic of Azlanti origin on the Inner Sea’s floor that we have a unique opportunity to add to our collection for study. In return, however, we must deliver one of our cataloged items to Escadar in exchange. The Low Azlanti drive a hard bargain, so we need you to escort a relics broker to Escadar so he can authenticate the Azlanti item and mediate a fair deal on the Ten’s behalf."

Dreng warns "The Pathfinders are not the only group that looks to acquire this relic. It seems the Aspis Consortium has also tendered an offer, and the gillmen have decided to accept the Consortium’s deal if the Society cannot finalize its agreement within 30 days. An Aspis-funded warship patrols the waters just beyond Absalom’s harbor, preventing Pathfinder agents from sailing to Escadar unmolested. Luckily we have a plan."

Lady Morilla stirs from her silence and speaks in a strong, demanding voice. “I have used some of the Empire of Taldor’s most skilled operatives to plant a false crew manifest and course plans with the harbormaster, ensuring that the Aspis Consortium spies who certainly keep an eye on such matters believe we are moving our relic to Escadar on a ship tomorrow morning. This decoy should occupy the Consortium sufficiently for you to travel overland to Escadar with plenty of time to make the final agreement with the gillmen before the Society’s window of opportunity runs out.”

Dreng laughs to himself absently, then instructs you "Go to the Siphons in the Puddles and meet with the Pathfinder Society’s ally, information broker Grandmaster Torch. He’ll give you a map for a smugglers’ trail through the isle’s center that should allow for relatively easy and secret travel overland to Escadar. The relics broker name is Nester Rees; Rees will meet up with you after your meeting with Grandmaster Torch. I've arranged lodgings for you at an Escadar tavern called the Grindylow’s Goblet, where the gillmen have agreed to meet with you. Once you arrive, you only need to send word to the Low Azlanti embassy, then have Master Rees conduct the negotiations at the tavern on the Society’s behalf." Dreng emphasizes "You are responsible for Rees’ safety and for the success of his negotiations."

Kor'sarro, dressed in scale mail which was covered with a flowing robe. The hood of the robe covered his features as walked into the room silentlySlowly he removed the hood and then watched the 2 present in the room, his golden hue'd eyes taking both in before returning the nod to the Taldan woman as a show to acknowledge she was noted by him. Dreng also recieved a nod to acknowledge the presence. A brow was raised when the Dreng described their mission. Ofcourse their was going to be another party interested, what was different then a normal mission for the society. He sighed beneath his breath as he gave a quick glance over his companions and watched for their response about the news, meanwhile still listening to what Dreng had to say.

When the Taldan woman started to talk his attention returned to her and regarded her for a bit. He noted the plans set in motion for their group and a small smile caressed his lips at the plan that had been set in motion, the whole scheming didn't sit well with him but he understood the need for it in regards of this. When everything was said by the 2 in front of him he gave them each a nod in acknowledgment. He raised his hands and then put the hood over his head allowing only his eyes to show before speaking, his voice soft but showing the strength of his conviction in it.

"We will make it happen Captain Dreng, I am sure master Rees will be in safe hands with us."

He waited to see if there was going to be anything else added by the 2 in front of him as he contemplated for a moment on the request, pondering if there was something was needed for the mission and making his list. Rations, bedding etc he had already, something else on the list? most likely but he couldn't figure it out for now and with that he waited for the rest of those present to see if they had any ideas or suggestions for the trip. Should nobody need anything else and all would be ready he would give both of them one more nod and then turn around and make his way out of the room. He briefly wondered about his companions and once out of the room he would turn and regard them each and then speak once more.

"My name is Kor'sarro, I am a paladin of Erastil..."

And with that he would wait for the others to introduce themselves.

The armored halfling regarded the two humans with a mix of awe and suspicion. So these are officers of the society! He pays close attention to their words and returns the nod to the beatiful Lady Morilla with a smile. When they finish their instructions he replays.

Very well. How long should the trip to Escadar take by foot?

After their conversation is over he leaves the room to socialise with his new companions before starting.

Nice to meet you Kor'sarro. I am Rufus Tealeaf, inquisitor of Milani. The young halfling says humbly. Both his clothes and armor have seem a good amount of use but are overall still in good condition. Besides some small weapons there is a longbow strapped to his back and not much else, he seems to travel light.

Adakos stood a bit impatiently as he listened to the rundown of the mission before him. He smirked slightly at the demeanor of the Lady in the room as her introductions were made. Must all nobles be so completely full of themselves? Pathfinders are merely a tool to them more often than not. As the Venture Captain continued he drew a frown out of Adakos at the mention of the Consortium. Them again, just perfect. At the conclusion of the speech he nodded, not saying a word, or wasting one where none was needed. He followed the lead of the paladin from the room, waiting until they were clear of the briefing before he decided to speak.

"Adakos Wraithbane, humble cleric of Sarenrae, at your service." and he bowed deeply, his vestments touching the ground as he did so. He was quite tall yet lean, his frame barely seeming to be able to support the fine breastplate he wore beneath his golden trimmed white cassock. His hair and eyes were silver, and his demeanor seemed to exude a feeling of peace. At his hip sat a scimitar in its scabbard and upon his back, over his traveling pack, he wore a shield emblazoned with the crest of his goddess.

Kiyanetikert has a fairly typical Gnome build as far as you can tell. Pale feathery hair and bright golden eyes, but all wrapped in the full desert robes of Kiya's Osirian homeland. Of course, true to Gnomish taste, these are in bright colors. The robes cover all but the head and are slung about with tools of the alchemist's trade.

Kiya listens to the Venture captain and Lady Morilla with obvious interest, jotting down a few quick notes as they speak. Any social slights go completely over the gnome's head.

"This sounds easier than my last escort job. This Master Rees will be awake for it, won't he? And meeting the gillmen will be interesting. I've never seen one. But shouldn't Master Rees be responsible for the negotiations? We'll get him there and keep him safe, but you want him to do the deal, not us, right?"

Since we seem to be doing intros in parallel
Following the others out afterwards: "Hi. I'm Kiynetikert, but you can call me Kiya. We seem a pretty religious group so far. Not me though, I'm an alchemist, but don't worry, not the crazy monstery kind. I'll try not to blow you up too much."

The surly dwarf enters the room frowning. "Blasted gillmen, an' secret pass'ges an' sneakin' aroun' like a bunch o' goblins an' the like. YAR! I vote wae jes' go tae the damn gillm'n an' take this trinket an' crack sum 'eads, eh?"

As the Venture Captain and the Lady explain the mission, Orik nods in agreement. "Reckon tha' Rees fella'll bae safe wit' us. He's jes' gotta stand b'hin' mae shield 'ere." He motions to the large steel shield with a fist emblazoned on it.

"Nae tell us, 'ow tae fin' this Siphon place and let's bae oof!"

Orik is a dwarf of average height, with a stout build. He carries the big shield and a dwarven war-axe and wears scale armor. His hair is long, red and plaited into long dirty braids. His beard is also red and long, divided and forked. He has along scar on his face from his left eye to his chin and along his jawbone.

Dreng nods at your acceptance of the mission and answers any questions. "From what I understand the trip should take about a week. I don't know all the in depth details, but Master Torch will be able to provide you with more details. As for Rees yes he will do the negotiation, but if he needs your help, be sure to provide it."

As you get ready to leave Lady Morilla tries to stand from her seat, but she has some difficulty almost seeming stuck in the chair which may be a little too small for her figure. Dreng chuckles a bit but doesn't move to assist her. She reaches out a hand for assistance.

When the dwarf made his entrance a smile caressed his lips at the entrance and speech. It was refreshing thing to hear and it would make for an interesting conversation during the travel. When the others introduced themselves a nod was given to each of them to show he had heard and seen them. When Dreng finished what needed to be said his attention turned for a moment to Morilla, an inward sigh was given but his features didn't show anything as he made his way and offer his hand to help her up.

Once she was up he would let go of her and then turn to make his way to his companions and stand next to them, giving Dreng and Morilla a final look while waiting for the rest of his companions.

"We ready to go?"

"If we're to be walking for a whole week, I'll need a few things before we leave. More food, if nothing else. A pack animal might be a good idea, unless one of you big strong folk wouldn't mind carrying a few things.
But they won't take very long to get."
Kiya continues muttering quietly: "A few flasks, yes. And spare socks. And ..."

Yes, I would need to buy some rations, other than that good to go.

Since I dont have money to buy anything else lol! How do you want to do the market shopping DM Dak? Should we just add the itens to our sheets and fast forward it or is that part of the roleplay important?

I'm fine either way, if you want to roleplay it you can, otherwise I am ok with just lists of what you plan on buying.

Once everyone has introduced themselves and decide to head out, you make your way to meet with Grandmaster Torch in a network of subterranean tunnels beneath the water-logged Absalom district of the Puddles. Finding the Siphons requires no special skill but does take you 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 aparently 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 you warily as the Grandmaster rises to greet you 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!”

One of the guards brings over a map and hands it to whomever will take it. Map

Orik grunts at the half-orc guard. "Whoever lets one of those type watch over them is mor than half a fool. Can;t trust an orc, everyone knew that. Those that didn't were dead..." He eyes him back, not retreating, but falling just short of an open challenge.

He grimaced seeing the man in a bathtub. "Aye, faller a path, eh? Reckon wae cain 'andle a simmel task li' that'un. Nae where's this Rees fella, ken? Time wae were movin' oon oot o' 'ere."

Orik, who is barely literate (and that may be questionable), avoids the map as if it were the plague, actually flinching a bit when the bathing man proffers it.

After their introduction Rufus study the room and Grandmaster Torch, intrigued by the magic present in both. When the map is offered he takes it and looks at the marked path for a couple of seconds sharing it with anyone who wants to see it.
Will the society provide a boat for the crossing at Pier's End or should we secure passage with the locals? He finally asks.

His features betrayed nothing of what had exchanged between him and Morilla. The silver hue'd eyes took in everything. The item handed to him by Morilla would find it's way somewhere not noticed or easily found. Once done and prepared the hood was placed over his head again allowing only the silver hue'd eyes to show. It had a dark and menacing feeling over him and that thought provided him with a small smile caressing his lips. Upon arriving the location where Torch was located a brow was raised at his choice of protection but nothing showed beneath the hood.

While listening to Torch he crossed his arms over each other and seemed to grow a bit as he did so, the color of his eyes danced with the flickering of the light in the room. He let go of a soft breath when the map was taken by Rufus and he glanced quickly over the little man his shoulder to see what it entailed. He passed on the offer to watch it but returned his attention to Torch providing the man with a small nod.

"I thank you for the assistance you are providing us Master Torch. I am sure my companions and I are well aware of the dangers lurking in the shadows, waiting to strike us down should we either trespass or falter in our conviction..."

He would let the words linger in the air for a bit, waiting for Torch to answer Rufus. Once the answer was given and they were all done and outside the room his attention would turn to the gnome Kiyanetikert and this time a smile would caress his lips for a brief moment.

"I am sure some of the small items can fit in my backpack, as long as you don't scramble over me to get them should we get into combat..."

The last trip I took on a boat was less than satisfactory. Let us hope there isn't one involved this time...

Adakos takes in the surroundings as they speak with Torch, keenly aware of the man's scarred and twisted form. Despite the Grandmaster's reputation, it obviously pains the cleric to see anyone endure such suffering, even if they brought it upon themselves most likely.

He will continue to stand, silently, as the group goes about speaking with the Grandmaster, taking in every word and noting the responses and questions of each member of his party in turn.

Untested they are not, this is good. But eager to trust one such as this without question they are. Unwise...

Adakos smiles at the gnome at the mention of spare socks. He reminds me of the other one. So full of life he was. Perhaps we shall cross paths again soon.

Taking a turn to look at the map he hands it back to the next member awaiting a chance to view it. Seeing nothing that needs further explanation he awaits the party's next course of action.

Torch nods to Rufus "We have a few contacts at Pier's End that we can rely on. I'll leave it to you to negotiate your passage, but any expenses you may get reimbursed upon your return by the Society I imagine."

"The map seems clear enough, if not that detailed. We'll try to stick to it. We'll need the contact's names. Or will they find us? Or maybe Master Rees knows them?
I've never been overland on the Kortos. What are we likely to run into? Assuming the Aspis haven't seen through the ruse anyway."

The gnome is wide-eyed, obviously bursting with barely restrained curiousity about Grandmaster Torch's condition and the whole operation, but trying to focus on the map and the job ahead.

---

Afterwards, Kiya stows a few things in Kor'sarro's pack: "Thanks, that'll make it easier. No combat gear, just food and a blanket, things like that."

"Awrig', wae gat the map, nae where's the damn r'lic brooker, eh? Hae dae wae fin' Nest'r Reez? He'n tha' tub wi' yae? HAR!"

Rufus nods to the grandmaster.

"Rees should be able to point you to the proper contacts. He has already been briefed on the mission and should meet with you soon. As for the route, I got it trough some trusted contacts that say this is the safest route you can take. Of course, things can happen along the way, but you lot are Pathfinders so I assume you can handle yourselves. In any case, I've not traveled the route myself so I can't speak to what you might find exactly. It's safe to say though that deviating from the route will likely find yourselves in much worse circumstances then sticking to the plan."

Kor'sarro let the gnome put his stuff away in the backpack, still keeping an eye on the others and listening to what Rees had to say as well. his brows furrowed for a moment but his lips remained silent as he heard about the safest route. It was a near joke to say something was safe in Golarion but it wasn't not his place nor the time to comment on hit. He watched his companions once more before to see when they were ready.

"It would seem our next step would be to meet with this Nester Rees and prepare for our journey. Unless you had anything else to add?" Adakos says to Torch, with enough respect as was the man's due, but not enough to hint that he was superior to the other Pathfinders present.

Torch shakes his head "Good luck to you then. I believe you can find your way out."

As you leave Granmaster Torch and exit the sewers a man of Garundi descent who walks with a cane waits for you where you exit. He waves briefly and says "Ah you must be my escorts, I was told to meet? I am Nester Rees, pleased to make your acquaintance." He flips his wrist and does a slight bow.

The halfing reciprocates the bow.
Yes, Rufus Tealeaf at your service.

"Sae, yer the blasted r'lic brok'r eh? Doan look like much tae mae. I ken yoo'll be stayin' near mae and behind this 'ere shield, if'n yae nae wha's goot fer yae. Nae, le's git this sho oon the rood, eh"

Orik like to grabs the relic master and hauls him along after.

Rees nods "I agree we should depart as soon as possible. I believe I have everything I need. Does anyone need to make any purchases before we head off?"

Adakos nods and says, "I'm unprepared for an overland trip and would need to pick up some basic supplies and food if you don't mind making a detour on our way out of the city."

I'll post up a list with a total in the discussion side today.

Anyone else getting gear?

Kor'sarro checked the map once more and then made a quick calculation in his mind before giving a quick nod to Adakos. "I would need some rations as well and will grab them when you do it as well."

He then went over a final check of his gear and put somethings away before watching the rest once more.

"So the plan is, grab some more supplies for those that need it, then make our way to the meeting point and conduct our mission, make sure mr. Rees survives and then be back here in one piece."

He gave the rest a lopside grin while putting the hood of the cloak over his silver colored hair.

"Let's get moving, I am getting restless..."

Yes, lets move Rufus will also buy some supplays before hitting the road.

Orik nods his assent, blessedly silent, that he is ready to proceed after picking up a few more foodstuffs.

Are we ready to go?

After taking time to prepare and get supplies you meet up and head out of town with Rees to start out on your journy. You head out of the northern gate and travels north on a road leading into the Cairnlands. 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.

As you approach the woods, you all hear the distinct sound of hooves galloping through the woods. Suddenly a group of three creatures with the head and torso of men, but the lower halves of horses, break through the trees and hail you. One of the three steps forward to speak with you "Hold travellers! These woods are not safe. What brings you to these parts?"

Kor'sarro had been watching his surroundings silently, the scenery was a welcome change from the rural surroundings of Absalom. Once in a while he seemed to hum under his breath as they made their way down the road. When the sound of hooves was heard he pulled the longbow from his back and knocked an arrow to it. However no string was drawn and the arrow pointed to the ground. When the new arrivals showed themselves a brow was raised just before he spoke.

"Greetings! we are just passing through and were unware of these woods being a danger."

His stance, his voice, everything signaled no danger, but weariness. He regarded the strangers wearily but used his diplomatic knowledge and skills to not appear threatening.

diplomacy: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11

Adakos takes in the details of the strange creatures, the likes of which he has never seen, but may have heard of in tales of his youth. Uncertain of their intentions, his stance is a wary one, hand on the hilt of his blade yet being careful not to provoke hostility with the strange horse-men.

Not sure if these men are friends or foe, Adakos follows his teachings and assumes they are no enemy unless they prove otherwise. He bows to the creatures, maintaining eye contact as he stops mid-way through the gensture, and begins speaking as he straightens himself. "As my companion has indicated, we are merely passing through these woods, on our way north through the mountains. Our journey is a long one and will take several days. Perhaps you would be kind enough to share your knowledge of this area and explain to us the dangers that make this path unsafe? We would be in your debt."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27

Kiyanetikert watches the newcomers in fascination, not yet speaking. It takes no effort to appear non-threatening. These people are big.

Take 10:Know(nature)=17

Orik eyes the newcomers warily. He has no knowledge or experience with these strange half-creatures. While the others greet and palaver, Orik moves near to Rees whispering:"Stay behin' mae shield, man. Doan nae if these 'orse-men are frien' er foe. Best tae bae careful fer nae."

He moves his large shield into place out of any line of fire from the horse-men and keeps a sharp eye out on their movements and actions.

Rufus is startled by the creatures. He also draws his bow at the first sight but knocks no arrow in it. Feeling more words are unecessary he just waits for the diologue to proceed while joining Orik at Rees's other flank.

The lead creature bows slightly "I am Urdel Thunderhoof. Recently, a mysterious predator has entered the woods here, threatening our tribe‘s food supply, so the tribe has sent us," he motions to the others behind him "its most skilled hunters to defeat this beast. We hunt a large cat, like a panther. This cat is no simple animal, for just two days ago we felt the cat’s presence as if it were herding us into an ambush. If you come across the beast please kill the predator."

He motions to one of the others and says "ມືຂ້າພະເຈົ້າຫມາກໄມ້ປ່າເມັດພິເສດແລະອາວຸດພິເສດ.", the other creature pulls out a small pack and hands it to Urdel. Who in turn lays it out on the ground before you. "May these help you on your journey." Inside are 8 nutritious looking berries and a well crafted spear.

Can I roll a knowledge to gather info on these creatures? Which knowledge?

Rufus nods, he had a positive first impression about the creatures and will help them if it does not endanger his mission.

Kiyanetikert smiles at Urdel's words and replies in kind:

Kiya looks in the pack, grinning again."I love goodberries. So much better than travel rations. Still, we should probably save them for emergencies."

@Rufus Know. Nature

Urdel bows his head to Kiyan and then to the others before stomping off back into the woods. After the sound of their hoofs is gone you continue on your way. After some time walking, as afternoon starts to set in, 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. The half-eaten carcass of a large deer stains the forest’s foliage near the fast moving river.

Map up, some people haven't logged in yet for me to assign them to tokens.

"Likaly spot fer an 'mbush. Keep yer eyes op'n and yer steel ready. Doan wanna run inta nae trouble, eh?"

Orik moves to a place where he can shield the relic master if something emerges from the woods, keeping the man on his left (shield) side.

Adakos draws his scimitar free of its scabbard and readies his shield, glancing around the clearing in an attempt to get a better understanding of their surroundings.

Perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7

And notices he forgot to tie his boots. Oops.

He watched the centaurs and the items being placed before him. A smile touched his lips from the gnome and then nodded in return to the centaurs as they left. When they were moving through the forest and came upon the area what seemed like a trap. He pulled the bow and knocked an arrow as he looked around, making sure his back was covered by one of the other companions as he let his eyes roam over the area.

perception: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

Kiyanetikert touches the various pouches and pockets containing alchemical ingredients, making sure they're all readily available, while scanning the bushes and trees for any sign of the predator that had killed the deer.
Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17

Who has the goodberries and the spear?

I've logged into Roll20 and can see the map. I haven't used it before, so I'm not sure if there's anything else I need to do.

I see the map, but whenever there are map problems its usually a good idea to just blame Dak and his love of dynamic lighting. It always messes things up. :)

Adakos would have declined the spear in favor of using the weapon dedicated to his goddess.

I assumed Kiya held on to the pack with the goodberries, unless you have weight concerns and need to hand them off.

If no one wants it I can use the spear but my primary weapon is the bow.

Rufus ready his bow while searching for targets.
Here kitty kitty...
Prcpt: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17

[before]
Kiya will be glad to carry the goodberries, but passes the spear along. "To big for me."

No one seems to see anything out of the ordinary, aside from the deer carcase of course.

A side note, although the tree bridge on the map appears broken, in reality it is intact and provides somewhat of a bridge across the river. Also, you should each be able to move your tokens on the map now.