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http://paizo.com/pathfinderRPG/prd/coreRulebook/skills/acrobatics.html#acro batics
You can use Acrobatics to move on narrow surfaces and uneven ground without falling. A successful check allows you to move at half speed across such surfaces—only one check is needed per round. Use the following table to determine the base DC, which is then modified by the Acrobatics skill modifiers noted below. While you are using Acrobatics in this way, you are considered flat-footed and lose your Dexterity bonus to your AC (if any)
A grease spell covers a solid surface with a layer of slippery grease. Any creature in the area when the spell is cast must make a successful Reflex save or fall. A creature can walk within or through the area of grease at half normal speed with a DC 10 Acrobatics check. Failure means it can't move that round (and must then make a Reflex save or fall), while failure by 5 or more means it falls (see the Acrobatics skill for details). Creatures that do not move on their turn do not need to make this check and are not considered flat-footed.
Meanwhile T'Krit unleashes himself against the lizardman.
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The lizard shaman stands defiant the storm has already claimed one of you today....it shall claim you all![/dice]
She arcs a lightning once more from her hands this time aiming for the now no longer standing in the high weeds Antal!
The lightning arcs directly at the halfling singing him as the shaman loojs on defiantly.
[B]Arisira
Mak'da
T'krit (-6 hp)
Shen (-7 hp)
Antal (-4 hp)
Vera (-14 hp, Stable)
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Lizard Leader (-9 hp)
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Shen runs forward and repays the blasts of lightning with a burst of acid all her own.
The acid dart strikes her target true who looks shocked, as though she expected the storm to protect her from your fire.
She falls in a heap and the threat has passed - but the storm definitely has not.
The squall of rain continues to pound you as you hurry up and grab the mayor back, hustling her back to the safety of the stone lodge.
The night is quiet as you take stock of what all you have gone through today - and the shaman's words.
Was someone really controlling these storms?
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As the day breaks the destruction to the town is about as controlled as you could have hoped for.
Much of island town was flattened but nobody died and the buildings protected by the trees more inland survived almost entirely in tact.
The next week is dominated by a rebuilding process but also in opportunities for you group to network or work on your tavern and more importantly, giving you all a chance to train.
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Vera is limping for a couple of days after the attack. She takes her time to help the mayor with what is needed. She makes sure that there's a alter to Cayden Cailean put into long house.
She'll help the sailors fix up their ships in the port, and work on rebuilding what can be.
"No one died. That's wonderful. I'm so sorry you lost your homes, but we all survived. That's important to remember. No one died. Praise Cayden."
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Apart from caring for the wounded (including Vera), Arisira continues to hole up in the stone house with the other displaced families. She spends most of her time trying to improve the general moral through stories, magic tricks, and other small tokens of amusement. Specifically, she tries to attend to the children often brushed aside by the busyness of the adults- and their focus on recovering from the storms.
Throughout the upcoming days, she checks in on the construction of the new pathfinder lodge and tavern, helping in whatever ways that a halfling can. Between carrying supplies, using the odd hammer and nail, and encouraging the laborers- she keeps a close eye on the progress of the structure.
Day after day she glances to the sky. How long until it comes again? Was that the end of the struggle- or just beginning?
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"Praise Cayden, indeed" the halfling exclaims! In a quiet moment, Arisira pulls Vera aside- "I am sorry for what happened the other night. Besides rightly owing you a drink, I should have done more to help you in the fight. Next time, I won't be so passive- you have my word!
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Approaching Shen Arisira is nervous, having never had strong interactions with her in the past. I still don't understand that Elf. She is here, yet part of her seems someplace else. When will she commit to the present?
"You know, you impressed me out there in the storm. You were about the last person I expected to wade out into the mess- let alone fell the shaman. I am starting to think there is more to you than meets the eye. Tell me, has your opinions of this place changed?
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Shen Is very happy that the group was able to survive this rescue mission and that they returned to the time!
The weather is not to her liking but endures it with the usual complaints.
She tries to use the time to read the books that she found in the outpost a couple of days go! The books were a little cheesy but such destruction is exactly what she now needs.
Should Shen have the feeling that her service is needed so that her survival and wellbeing are affected then she will definitely support the efforts of the community to cope with the unbelievably stormy weather!
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The group spends the next week redoubling their efforts in building their Lodge/Temple to Cayden.
The place was woefully underserved without a tavern before and soon the place is a hot spot, even if the ale supplies are at all times dangerously low with how tightly the grain and other supplies are rationed. There are no trade routes to this town yet and with the weather being the way it is...expected shipments have been slow and unreliable.
Xanko has offered his services as proprietor, brewer, and head priest to this temple having decided that the adventuring life isn't quite for him. And besides - he looks JUST like Cayden, which makes him a big attraction for business.
Meanwhile Vera, depsite being an ACTUAL Cleric to Cayden has made herself seen as the Priestess of the Docks, causing some to begin conflating the traditional worship of Gozreh with the Worship of Cayden which has some comically expected results that Vera ends up having to devote her attention to as Deputy.
Antal, makes himself useful constructing the new lodge and is soon spotted by most paying an inordinate amount of time with his mule in the new stables attached to the temple/lodge. In no time, others begin to come to him, asking for tips on training their own draft animals and seeking to rent stall space from him.
Shen, quietly has the shelves and all of the trashy novels moved from the officer's quarters into a cozy corner of the new lodge. You wouldn't know it from her normally stony demeanor, but she curls up with a red wine and novel most nights, and some think they even see her curling up a smile or two as she does.
But the real threat has not passed. The clouds still hover over Pridon's Hearth...
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Vera looks to the hafling lass. "I'll take that drink. You did your best, and you learned something about yourself. Yes? That's all I would ask of you." she gives the small woman a bright smile.
"We are working together well I think. What do you think? Is there anything that I can do to help you?" she asks Arisira.
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"A few more inches would be nice!" she says laughingly. "I just don't like feel so helpless. All through that storm I felt like I was just holding on, ya know? Never been in anything like that before."
Her mood is contemplative, if only for a few seconds, before her optimism again overtakes it. "But here you are, serving as deputy and heading up a church. Seems as though you are accomplishing what you set out- at least thus far!"
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Overhearing the conversation and joining her two companions Shen can only roll her eyes.
"Oh dear gods, can you please stop talking about duty and responsibility and so on?! We just survived a storm and crazy lizards ... just enjoy life a little bit now!!! I would not say this too loud ... but ... these could very well be our last days!" Shen says a little too theatrical.
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Now that the worst of the storm has passed, things begin to settle down.
The group of excavators and miners you first met on the ship continue to gather around, becoming regulars at the tavern and led by a man named Hamsa Gadd...apparently your own affiliation as Pathfinders has slipped them by as they fairly openly refer to things like 'snake' business and you have more than once seen the man brandishing the trademark bronze badge as they quietly discuss their business. Apparently this man Hamsa is the second in command to the real authority in this town, the count of Pridon's Hearth, Count Lethar Narsus
Before you can do too much about this however, you recieve an invitation from the count - as the adventurers who saved the town during the storm they invite you all to attend the next meeting of the town council. In fact, Vera quickly discovers that she is expected to attend this meeting as part of her new duties!
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Antal watches the laborers cautiously as he goes about the stabling duties. He examines the various mounts and pets brought to him, and greets the owners politely.
When there is time to talk with the rest of the party, he asks "What is that snake business and badge referring to?" Are they treasure hunters, or perhaps they might know of where artifacts could be found. I best be careful until I know more.
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Early on into the next week those watching would notice Arisira spending an inordinate amount of time on the docks- talking with the workers and getting a feel for the incoming ships schedules. She is excitable, even for her, as each day passes her energy seems to grow.
Finally, after several days of anticipation, a cargo ship arrives.
Arisira bounds on board and soon emerges with a wooden crate and a letter.
She squeals in delight as she talks to anyone around and willing to listen! "My father said he was going to get me a 'gift fit for a queen' to celebrate my confirmation into the Pathfinders- but I got sent here before it made its way to Absalom. VC Dreng promised to forward it on when it arrived!"
She sits down on the edge of the dock, with the sturdy box resting beside her- and she pops the seal on the letter.
Dearest Arisira,
I always knew you had more to you than a humble silk merchant. The first year of your absence has been rough on the family, though Uncle Michel has shared with us all of your adventures and we eagerly await your first visit home. Sorry for all the difficulty in your youth, it took me far too long to realize your bigger calling. Everyone has pitched in for these (especially your mom). Consider them a sign of our best wishes and our desire to see you returned home safely.All the best,
Your Father
Arisira wipes a tear from her eye and then glances over at the nondescript box. Pulling out a dagger she wedges open the top to find the box filled with straw. Pushing it all aside, she catches the glint of metal. She leaps to her feet and shrieks!
"Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh, Oh my gosh"She reaches in and pulls out a gleaming mithral shirt. Hugging it close to her chest she continues to cry... and laugh... all at the same time. A few minutes pass before she looks to close up the box when she notices her second surprise: a simple wooden wand. Of course Mother would include a wand of healing. She was always very worried.... Arisira sits back down on the dock, holding the symbols of her families affection... as home sick as she had ever been.
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Vera meets the same ship. Her box is a bit smaller and does not contain a letter. She pulls out just a bit better made versions of her current armor and weapon. Inside are two wands. "One is a healing wand, and one is a wand that makes swimming easier. I think we'll be doing some of that around here."
She sighs as she learns she is expected to attend the council meetings. "You are all coming with me. I'm not attending this thing alone. At least not the first one. Someone will eventually need to attend as tavern owners."
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As the town Council is called the meeting is to take place in the counts mande, it is further inland than the rest of the settlement. It is still visible to see that the current coat of arms for the Narsus Family is quite literally plastered over the older - but still quite new coats of arms of the last few 'ruling families down here.'
Arisira recalls that the initial ruling family here was, not surprisingly, the Pridon family. Apparently they had met with disaster early on and that there had been a succession of ruling families before landing on this Narsus fellow.
Sheriff Praeta, seemingly recovered from her wounds nods warmly at tje party before sighing under her breath to Vera Welcome to politics dear...these things tend to be dry affairs. I brought a thermos of coffee....just in case you need some.
You are quickly swept into the parlor chamber where the towns other movers and shakers are gathered - the priestess of Abadar, most of the business owners, the few other remaining Nobles and at the center....you see the Count, a pudgy looking man with thick looking glasses and messy hair. He doesn't really...fit your image of Sargavan or Chelish nobility. In fact, Shen fits the bill far more than he.
He fidgets nervously as everyone gathers until the man standing behind him, almost unrecognizable in his fine suit is the head of the mine and regular in your tavern, Hamsa Gadd bends ans whispers something in his ear. A quick cocktail 'hour' passes with finger sandwiches and tea served to each of you by velvet-clad servants.
The count stands and waits for the room to grow silent Ahh....erm.. So I see some new faces.W-welcome to Pridon s Hearth. This place....it seems to want to devour us but....well thanks to the party of brave new settlers who just arrived I am told that no one died in the most recent storm Tha-that is remarkable.
He begins to lead the group in a round of applause and once Gadd begins to clap behind him so too do the others.
I-I know that this place can live up to its promise...that anyone can come here and stake their claim...change their fortunes. My...my family was fringe nobility in Sargava after being even fringer nobility in Cheliax....this place is my only chance to improve in this world.....and since none of you have left after all the storms....and s-savage attacks by tribes of natives, I k-know you feel the same.
He raises his hand and gestures asking to open new business.
Gadd rises smoothly and then gestures So, we have been told by the sheriff that these storms were caused by - and taken advantage of by a group of lizardfoll - the Mireborn Tribe. I continue to suspect they likely had Song'o halfling confederates as well. What's more...there are several outstanding opportunities to investigate in the wood - ships run aground, expeditions gone missing....what I would like to suggest is we give these opportunities to our new deputy and her very capable friends. Without the military to lean on any longer I can see no other solution.
The mayor unfurls a map of the region and circles a few areas of interest - point in particular to a spot to the far northeast of the village T-this is where e-e-early reports from scouts suggested the Mireborn were hiding out. G-g-Ghol Ghan Cyclops ruins....w-will you help?
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Shen just stays silent as she knows that opening her mouth will only lead to drastic events!
It is just obvious that she is fuming a little bit.
After a while she cannot control herself anymore and stands up from her chair and just starts speaking to no one in particular.
"Do you actually know that we were risking our lives out there?!? What do we get in return for wandering around in the wilderness? Did you see my dress?!? Do you think I like doing these things? No! I do not! I want to drink wine and sit next to a fire and read a book. And you do not know that the sl ... halflings were cooperating with the lizards. We found no evidence for this claim! So what do we get from you for going to these ruins?"
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By spending just a little bit of time around town, Arisira is able to piece together a little bit of the history of this region. It’s amazing how much people will share when they think it is for a ballad or a story.
Before heading out to the council summons, Arisira pulls Vera aside to share what she has learned. ”Those “in charge” here are not the originals, after some poor luck on their part. Many of the ruling families here have changed… often. I would be careful of individuals looking to leverage control or finally solidify power.”
As the Council meeting, Arisira drifts between the people in attendance, introducing herself (with a flourish) to those she hasn’t already met. Through careful questioning and interactions, she attempts to get a feel for the different political factions and groups currently assembled.
Once the nobleman, if you could call him such, begins to speak everything seems to make a little more sense to Arisira. Mining corporations. Untouched jungle. Power. Things I shouldn’t be surprised by. During the conversation she pays very careful attention to the noble and his… companion.
She also uses this as an opportunity to gage the feeling of the room. How do all these other “leaders” feel about this obvious display of control and manipulation?
As the meeting shifts towards the storm and conflict, Arisira struggles to hold her tongue. How can he accuse to Song’o’s? Hasn’t he heard about Muhdazi? Or the things we uncovered at the fort?
Finally she can no longer hold back her opinions, and she blurts out: ”What evidence can you offer that the Song’o have anything to do with the current circumstances? All evidence collected from the inland fort supports the idea that the Song’o were willing traders and that the massacre was the result of lizardfolk! Until you can offer objective proof of Song’o involvement- I don’t much care “what you continue to suspect”. Besides, who is it that will protect the village if you send out the only capable adventurers left? If the lizard folk return who will defend Pridon’s Hearth? Will YOU defend this city, Lord Narsus?”
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Arisira seems to notice that there is no surprise at Hamsa asserting his dominance.
This tracks with what Shen and you found out - the mining interests that Hamsa and his new associate Mr. Blackwell, that you all met on the boat, seem to be the one real constant power in this town. People seem to accept this arrangement - seeming to have a very poor opinion of Narsus, humoring him as he speaks and pretends to hold power.
Narsus for his part seems desperate for you all to accept his offer.
He gulps as you attack the Song'o portion of Hamsa's pledge and gulps standing between you S-setting that aside, l...let's talk bout the ruins. I-if the Mireborn he gives a significant look to Hamsa a-and Songo'o are h-hled up in the ruins still we can sss-stop them. If they aren't, w-w-we can get some clues. As for the other things, the missssing ships, the supplies that went d-down with them....we need them
The earnestness shines through in his eyes as he nearly breaks down into tears, sweat pouring from the stress of trying to prevent open conflict in his parlor.
Hamsa, however looks over you smugly to answer the question My mining corporation can handle the town's defenses in your absence...but I can't help you explore in the country. Wem ust stay here and generate wealth for Pridon's Hearth. Dare I say maybe one day....Narsus' Hearth
A couple of the sycophants in the room chuckle and give polite claps.
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Regarding the Ghol-Gan ruins - shen knows that once long long ago this continent was ruled over by the Ghol-gan empire. They sprawled over this continent and ruled by a prophetic class of oracle-kings and renowned for their ability to accurately predict the future.
The details of their fall escape Shen, but the remnants of their glory lay dotted around - old lighthouses, old cities, old fortresses. More than that, their ruins are known to hold ancient treasures and all sorts of magical focii.
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Vera smiles at Sheriff Praeta's offer of coffee. "With my friends, I can almost guarantee this won't be a dull affair. It's probably the last time they will want us all here together."
She makes small talk introducing herself to everyone, and nods at Arisira's warning.
When the real business of the meeting gets going she waits, and it doesn't take long for Shen to speak up. The climb on the chair surprised her a little though. Then just about right on time comes Arisira's defense of the haflings.
She waits for Mak'da to say something about the people in this room not actually belonging on this land. Antal? Antal she's not sure what he will do.
Before things can get to tense she moves up to Shen. "I'm sure they are planning to reward us handsomely. Aren't you?" she looks to Hamsa for the answer not Narsus. She helps Shen from the chair.
She then moves next Arisira. "You are correct. We saw no evidence at the fort that the Song'o tribe had anything to do with the attacks. In fact we found a witness to the contrary."
"As to your request sir Mayor. We would be honored to help Pridon's Hearth in this way. It's good for everyone here." She'll move up to take a look at the map with a kind smile.
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Mak'da has been missing for about a week. On her return she has a number of extra scrolls with her. If asked she tells people that she visited her tribe, who live further up river.
She attends the council meeting with reluctance and her mood grows darker as discussions continue. Eventually her patience snaps, You invade these lands and are surprised that the people who live here fight for their homes. You assume you can simply take what you want. she sneers at Hamsa. Your attempts to tear this land apart will fail fool
Turning on the "Noble". I will help to end this conflict with the lizardfolk, if only because my heart tells me there is more to these attacks than meets the eye. As for the halflings, you have no evidence of their involvement in anything and your rank racism sickens me.
With that she turns on her heel and storms out.
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The business man Hamsa upturns his cheshire grin when Vera mentions cash, as though he had just won some sort of victory. Ye of course you will compensated - a portion of the haul at the very least. This is the LAND OF OPPORTUNITY after all. Anything can be yours for the taking, as long as you're willing to fight for it.
The accusations of racism wash over him - as though they were not uttered, only the words affirming him, Antal's and Vera's get acknowledged.
Preata gives a serious look for you all to exit before things got turned into a bit of a fracas.
It's a solid offer - the truth is, no matter how slimy I think Hamsa is a lot of this stuff needs done and with no military to protect us....we need all the resources we can get and in a hurry. Who knows how long til the next storm hits.
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With that - you have a few possible headings - salvage, the ruins where the Mireborn were once spotted, perhaps talking to some of your allies like Muhdazi.
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Leaving the council chambers, Arisira walks as quickly as her legs allow her. She is obviously fuming, and deflects opportunities to engage with others until she has calmed down a little.
Once the Pathfinders have regathered in the tavern, she flips the sign out front to closed and quickly checks that there is no one else in the establishment.
"I am uncomfortable with most of this. Both in leaving important tasks undone, and in leaving Pirdon's Hearth in these noble's hands while we are gone. Perhaps we need to be more careful about allowing Hamsa on our premises- I would hate for him to acquire any additional leverage or power based on overheard conversations or thoughtless side comments."
"On a more practical note: I would like to spend a little more time with Muhdazi. I have been working on my Polyglot and he would be good conversation. Perhaps he might also know some of the locations and situations of which we now seek? Besides, I am beginning to think this place may not be the safest for him longterm. I am not much of a fan of swimming- what are the odds that the ship and supplies are run aground and not out at sea?"
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"Hamsa is a dangerous man. We need to watch him carefully. I don't think banning him is a good idea. We need the miner's business. We also need to hear their rumors, but discussing our business in the an open common room is something we shouldn't do."
"I too would like to speak with Muhdazi. They may know something about the ruins and the lizard men. I don't like that these people just assume the local hafling tribe is involved."
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Shen’s distaste for these arrogant or incompetent or manipulative nobles is clearly visible!
”You seem to have a plan Vera so I truly hope that you know what you are doing!“ Shen says sightly concerned.
”I just am afraid that this will be a suicide mission and that the only people that will benefit from our little adventure will be the most powerful in town! I do not want to loose my life but staying in this town seems even less attractive so of course I will accompany you on this tour. Mak’da what do think we should pack? I really have no idea!“ Shen says a little apologetically.
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Antal for his part appears happy with the mission. ”I know we cannot fix all the things in the world, including who runs this town. However, this is a chance to do some real good!”
He looks at Shen. ”The scarab sages might have sent us here for a reason. These ruins could be the beginning of something big. I am proud to have you as my teammate.”
”We are going to need weapons for this, I think. Lots of them. Luckily. I have loaded Harmony up with a decent arsenal and you are all well equiped.”
Irori protect me, but have I been handed the means for revenge? I always thought it would be far away, and to have these opportunities so close at hand is too dangerous! Surely not all lizards are evil, but it will be difficult to restrain myself from going too far. Irori, guide my prayers and stay my hand should I be wrong.
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Approaching Muhzuhdi, he seems to have recovered some of his strength and seems to be waiting somewhat anxiously. As Vera and Arisira appraoches he looks positively relieved!
Oh thank goodness you're back...those miners treat me like some sort of monster...keep hurling insults claiming we attacked them and their...snake?...Asp?...Leaders. I appreciate your kindness Arisira but....I would like to return home. There should be a group of my people gathered at the Cahshil lands. It is deeper inland but....if you wish to know more about these storms, you might find coming with me to be rewarding. Our elder has told stories of this happening before. Plus, I have something really nice at my home that I can give as reward for saving me from that dreadful grippli.
It quickly becomes evident - while ship is to the south east and the ruins are to the north east, accompanying Muhdzudi would send you due west and slow you. Still...the information the Song'o have to offer might worth the delay? It's hard to say as you have no idea when the storms might return or what Hamsa is up to.
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"Nimefurahia, Muhzuhdi- natumaini kwamba polygot yangu imeongezeka kutoka mkutano wetu wa kwanza, ninajifunza kwa mazungumzo bora na watu wako. Ni huzuni kwangu, jinsi umekuwa umetibiwa. Nitazungumza na marafiki zangu kututetea sisi kuongozana na wewe nyumbani.
Je, unaweza kutuambia yoyote ya magofu haya ya Ghol Gan? Je, ni hatari gani tunazokabili pale?"
It is my pleasure, Muhzuhdi- I hope my polygot has improved from our first meeting, I am learning it to better dialogue with your people. It grieves me, how you have been treated. I will speak with my friends to advocate us accompanying you home.
Can you tell us any of these Ghol Gan ruins? What dangers do we face there?
Arisira translates for Vera in an informal way.
"He has been treated poorly, Vera... by those he describes as 'the snake' or 'asp' leaders. He asks if we would accompany him safely home to the west- in the Cashahil lands. He is offering something of value, but also information from her tribe about these storms."
"Even if it adds to our travels, I feel more loyalty to him than Hamsa and would rather help him then aid the miners"