GM Endless Forms' PFS 07-15 The Deepmarket Deception (Inactive)

Game Master Mike Tuholski

Playing a game of dice or talking to something akin to a lost fey.
I am not like Jacques or Blanmieux. Even if those two warriors I saw may be knowing more about the aspis... Yeah maybe it is the better idea. Aspis agent are not gentle one. I could always write something about the gamblers game in my report. If I lose too much, I can go elsewhere.

He looks at Dorice and he says: Why not? It is not, if I have a time limit. Between warriors, a game of dice is always the welcome.

If they demand a bet, he will use one of the artwork. Fearing a trick, Gayel will examine the dice if they are not piped. If they question him about why he is here and what he want: He and he and his group were working for a extravagant collectionneur who wanted "fresh" relic. The cost to recuperate and transport were entirely at their own cost. This last "bad harvesting" were their final straw. They heard the aspis consortium were recruting, so now they are searching for a way to joint them and heard they need a guide.

We are seeking a guide, to help us with several things. You are correct in assuming we are not from here, and it would be most helpful to us and our cause were you to aid us in finding one. Helpful enough that you may see benefits from it...

"I'm interested," the light voice responds from the shadows. "And prices might be negotiable if your cause interests me. But you haven't yet told me who you are and what you are looking for."

---

Meanwhile, Doris seems to be warming up to Gayel. After a few rounds of dice, she takes a closer look at the adventurer. "You know, looking like that, I’d be surprised if they didn’t deliver you to Tseka dead. If you and your friends are looking to blend in, you aren’t doing a good job. Bright colors, baggy and flowing clothing aren’t going to get you a deal down here, it’s only going to get you killed. Nobody’s going to bat an eye if you get robbed without carrying something to defend yourself, either. Make it clear you mean business."

Upon hearing the comments about getting killed by standing out, Waki stays to the shadows trying not to draw any attention to himself.

They are not that flashy thinks Gayel. "Well Doris, i know that we are not as blending than a Kitsune. " he says, to the short-haired women. "We need to show that our weapon and magic are not for show fine. But you know that wrecking the place would be more foolish than doing nothing.

Unless Doris, you had an idea in your mind. I mean, I know that under the undermarket there are ruins, funeral chamber and crypt. The perfect test, to prove that we are competent. Or you know some target that the under and deepmarket would be pleased to not see anymore."

Or just staging a fight.

-Posted with Wayfinder

"I'm interested," the light voice responds from the shadows. "And prices might be negotiable if your cause interests me. But you haven't yet told me who you are and what you are looking for."

"We're looking to avoid trouble. We were referred to a dealer named Tseka. You know her?"

"Unless Doris, you had an idea in your mind. I mean, I know that under the undermarket there are ruins, funeral chamber and crypt. The perfect test, to prove that we are competent. Or you know some target that the under and deepmarket would be pleased to not see anymore."

"The Deepmarket? What're you asking about that for? Deepmarket isn’t a friendly place and I wouldn’t want to be actively trying to go there. Rumor has it that the Aspis set up a base down there a few years back; they’ve set up checkpoints and everything. It had been quiet until just recently. Something about an attack and a traitor from that Lodge building has caused their numbers to rise." Doris looks like she is now trying to wrap up the dice game, moving on from the conversation at the mention of the Deepmarket.

----

"We're looking to avoid trouble. We were referred to a dealer named Tseka. You know her?"

"She’s the one in charge of Aspis business down here. Not that I’ve ever seen her. Few people have. They say she keeps to the shadows, and anyone who crosses her winds up dead before they can even blink."

"But have no fear," the small voice calls from the shadows as something moves out into the light. "I am not her." What you see is quite surprising: a minute serpentine creature with smoky gray fur and amber eyes, her ears perked up in excitement. "My name is Yrishi. I am guide but I choose my clients carefully. I apologize for spying but you can't trust everyone here in the Undermarket. I'm interested in knowledge of all kinds, but especially of the magical kind. Tell me something most people don’t know or show me some interesting magic. I might consider telling you more of what I know. I might even be willing to guide your way."

Also, not everyone has checked into the Discussion thread with their character number and other information. Don't forget about that, please! It makes things easier for me. Thanks!

Ticlo grumbles, but produces a wand and taps himself with it. His arms grow to grotesque lengths. Reaching around his back, he scratches those hard-to-get spots with ease.

Long Arm spell.

What knowledge is the fox thing?

"That give me something to think about. Maybe it will be better for her health that we return to our old employer. The aspis don't seem so open to new recruits. Thanks Doris."

That said, Gayel packs up his things and returns.

-Posted with Wayfinder

Yrishi squeaks in excitement at Tico's show of magical prowess. "I have not seen that one before. Yes, I know where Tseka's hideout is and I will show you the way as long as you agree to share whatever secrets you find within. I recently heard that the Aspis have begun trying to aly with a group of alley bashers named the Dragon Fangs and their partnership has piqued my interest. I also heard that someone who wore a wayfinder defected to the Aspis Consortium a few years back."

Waki bristles at the thought of a defector breaking his oath to join the sworn enemy. He also steps out of the shadows to address Yrishi.

"This partnership bad for Society is. Investigate it we should. But where conduct their illicit meetings have they?"

Arcana: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22

Being nice isn't usually among Morvius's skillset so he opt to stay in silence and follow the others during their talks.

Remember one of my pet-peeves: no dice-only or ooc-only posts in the gameplay thread!

Yrishi responds, "The Aspis base is in the Deekmarket and they've got a checkpoint about two hours from here. Are you ready to go there?"

Gayel remarks the group and walk toward them. He sees that they have find and communicated the tips he have find.

The aspis and the pathfinder Society employee are like natural remplacement option like the other.

Hum... I would like to know more about you Yrishi. From what M.Ticlo said, you should't have been possible to you of transforming if you have not additionnal ability. And what his your stand about the aspis?

If she seem honest and doesn't seem to like the aspis. Gayel will ask her if it is possible to pass those check point or if she's able cast those scrolls we have when we will come to the checkpoint.

Hanzo smiles at the mention of magical display, and lets the natural flames of his Ifrit heritage burn at his fingers for a brief moment.
Magic we have in spades my friend. Come along with us, and help us to our destination and I'm sure you'll more than you expected.

Yrishi is confused by Nayel's question. "Transform? I have no power to transform. What you see is what I am."

"The Aspis?" she tilts her head sideways and shrugs slightly in ambivalence. "They are like any other group in the Deepmarket. They have their own interests and they protect them, that's for sure."

Yrishi looks over the scrolls but admits, "I don't think I can read these. I'm sure they're powerful, but I haven't been taught the mysteries of arcane symbols. I've only been around the checkpoints, snuck past them, never through them. They will check you for contraband and you should try to fit in. Once you're past the checkpoint you can find their base easily enough. I'll stick around though."

Any preparations before going through the checkpoint? Disguise checks will be needed from everyone.

I suppose that we can use the disguise kit for all of us before we depart.And Everybody can put those dangerous thing we have in my backpack.

also for those who have money can buy a cap of human guise for 800gp it will help. And we can also aid another everybody i thinks.

Gayel will try to help everybody with their disguise.

morvius: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (6) - 1 = 5
tico: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (14) - 1 = 13
Seinaru: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (8) - 1 = 7
Waki: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (12) - 1 = 11
Hanzo: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (17) - 1 = 16

Waki will try his own disguise and accept any help from the others.

Looking as another my strength is not. Not being seen at all is"

disguise: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17 + assist

He will also offer assistance to any others needing it.

disguise: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20 vs DC10 asssist Morvius
disguise: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (9) + 3 = 12 vs DC10 asssist Seinaru
disguise: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (6) + 3 = 9 vs DC10 asssist Hanzo

Ticlo tries to assume the persona of an ordinary bodyguard to the merchants.

Disguise (with aid): 1d20 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 1 + 2 = 12

Hanzo wears a simple black and grey outfit, and attempts to disguise himself as a simple bodyguard/heavy lifter to one of the more "important" looking party members.
Disguise: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14

He will also assist the others in their disguises.
Assist morvius: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10
Assist tico: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (5) + 2 = 7
Assist Seinaru: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 2 = 12
Assist Waki: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 2 = 11
Assist Gayel: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 = 17

Sen will try to look more like the preacher of redemption that he is. Here to spread light and love to the people.

disguise is charisma based right?: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (14) + 5 = 19

Morvius tries to disguise himself as a merchant.

Disguise+2assists: 1d20 + 1 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 1 + 4 = 13

Assist Seinaru : 1d20 ⇒ 11
Assist Hanzo : 1d20 ⇒ 14
Assist Ticlo : 1d20 ⇒ 1
Assist Waki : 1d20 ⇒ 4
Assist Gayel : 1d20 ⇒ 15

As Yrishi guides you to the Aspis hideout, she opens up to any spellcasters in the group, asking questions about spells, magic, and rituals. After about 2 hours of travel, Yrishi suggests that you finish your disguises, as you are about to approach an Aspis checkpoint. She helps you by telling you to hide anything that might make you stand out, such as jewelry, flashy clothing, dangerous weapons, and wayfinders.

Yrishi then disappears into the shadows, promising to meet you on the other side and wishing you good fortune. Purple and yellow bioluminescent fungi line the base of the walls of this tunnel. A thin, shallow stream of water flows lazily through the passageway. Stationed at this checkpoint are two Aspis agents. "Stop for a moment, please. State your business and declare any contraband or goods you are carrying."

Since we posted very close in time GM Endless I just wanted to point that I was still twinking mine to add the assists to the rest of the party. Not sure if it makes any difference.

Following their guide's advice Morvius hides his jewerly before approuching the checkpoint.
Hello, we have merchandise to sell. He says with a polite bow and points at their goods.

diguise with the aid and the disguise kit: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Gayel just nods and tries to be intimidating.

intimidation: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23

if it is possible i would like to utilise my hunter bond with anybody who talk with the aspis

Waki will nod in agreement, staying close to Morvius.

"Merchandise sell we must or our business fail will."

"They have brought their goods and I am here to heal the sick and preach on the glory of the gods. Sen says.

Diplo take 10: 10 + 12 = 22

The Aspis guards take a cursory look through your contraband and spend a moment thinking about what you say. "I don't know how much preachin' you'll get down here. Likely to get yourself beat up and dumped in an alley somewhere with that kind of talk. But if you've got things to sell, be on your way. Use the passphrase the serpents rise again to let the next checkpoint know you are clear."

After passing through the checkpoint, you can head to the Aspis Consortium’s base in Deepmarket. Farther along the tunnel, small communities of recently constructed but shoddy structures connected by narrow tunnels give way to large caverns littered with dilapidated buildings, the homes of squatters too poor to afford to live anywhere else.

Yrishi rejoins you but stops once or twice to ask for clarification about the Aspis base. An old beggar whispers that it was once a “temple of nightmares” before becoming “a place where people disappear,” and now the “snakes have it.”

Yrishi leads you on through Deepmarket, frequently pausing to listen for trouble. Eventually, the caverns shrink, turning into crude, winding tunnels. The winding tunnels end at an ancient building nestled against a rock wall. An iron door bearing a raised image of a three-eyed beast on its face prevents entrance.

Yrishi is afraid to enter the building, and says that she will meet you again when you leave to guide you out if you need.

K.Religion: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10
That is the sigil of Lamashtu, the demon queen, mother of beasts. We are about to enter one of her temples. Morvius whispers to the group clearly wishing he could go someplace else.

Ticlo curses under his breath, and mutters a prayer to Shelyn before entering.

religion untraîned: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16 This is the second time, i have seen the consortium occupy a temple of the demon's queen. Weird... I wonder if they have a grudge against the church?

-Posted with Wayfinder

Know Religion take 10: 10 + 4 = 14

"This doesn't bode all that well. Whats our plan once we are inside?" Sen asks quietly.

Hanzo cracks his knuckles.
I didn't see any of the Aspis. invoking Lamashtu when they assaulted the Convocation. I doubt we have her to fear.

"Someone talks and we follow."That my idea.

-Posted with Wayfinder

Our main mission is to find Tseka, capture her if possible and apprehend any information we may find during our search. For now I propose we keep posing as smugglers trying to sell some goods and maybe looking for our next job. Lets hope that can put us in contact with her. Morvius whispers and with a deep sigh enters the building.

Waki stays close to Morvius and follows the Oracle into the building as well.

Signal or way to communicate with you Yrishi do we require? Or find us upon our exit you will?

Yrishi whispers, "Don't worry, I'll find you. I'm quite good at sneaking about in the shadows, if you haven't noticed."

After Yrishi leaves, you eventually head through the front door. Four exits lead out of this sparsely furnished room—an iron double door to the northwest, and three wooden doors leading south, east, and southeast. Worn wooden benches line the walls, and discarded bottles are scattered across the floor.

Three Aspis agents are stationed at this checkpoint. They look up as you enter the room. "The passphrase?" Another asks, "And what are you bringing in? Anything good?"

Ticlo mutters, [b]"The serpents rise again," then gestures at his companions to show the merchandise.

We work only with the best goods, good sir. Morvius says showing their merchandise with flamboyant manners.

Waki will also repeat the phrase if all are required. If granted access as a group he remains silent and stays to the sideline.

He eyes the three agents, checking for any remarkable features.

Perc : 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13

Waki notes that the guards seem to have been drinking a bit. They nod at the passphrase and look over the things you are bringing in. "Nice stuff. Ok, go on."

1d3 ⇒ 2

Unsure which way to go, you pick the center door and let yourselves in. The guards give you a strange look but then go back to their drinking and light conversation.

The walls of this circular room are covered in painted scenes of fear and torment. The stone ceiling rises in a craggy dome that is haphazardly carved with disembodied eyes, talons, fangs, and other monstrous features. In the center of the room, rusty brown stains run down from a circular dais, which holds a stained marble bowl and a collection of rusty daggers. A jagged black rune covers up most of the floor. Tattered and moldy bedrolls are pushed into the corners of the room.

Hanzo gives the room a cursory nod, and then shrugs.
Not exactly the most visually appealing place of worship. Now what?

Maybe we should have talk to those guard... to know what is happening... Oh my .... She's still here....

"Simplicity would say we continue right in front of us. But i suggest we go at our left. I fear also that "her" influence is still there." says Gayel pointing at the three alcoolics.

He also looks around him.
perception: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

Yea, left sounds good. Morvius says clearly unconfortable in this chamber. He scans the place with detect magic as they walk to the next door.

Waki nods silently and follows Morvius and Gayel to the left.

Wondering to himself who else may be down here.
These guards incompetent are. Alert for attack I must remain

"Yes, I think we made wrong turn. Let us try door number 2."

You decide to let yourselves through the door to the left to see if that room is any more promising.

A flourishing mass of purple fungus separates the western portion of this room. Two cages lined with straw and fungal spores sit ajar against the north wall. To the east, smooth stone covered in scorched images of screaming faces gives way to rough stone.

In the room is a shambling fungus creature that bears a strong resemblance to a rotund human, but with a mushroom cap for a head. It is followed by two other fungoid creatures: mismatched eyes dot their thick mushroom caps, while below works an overlarge maw set with pale fungal teeth.

First bigger creature:

Second smaller creatures:

The large mushroom creature is picking at the fungus patch in the room. It looks up as you open the door and begins mumbling something to you in its own language.

K. Nature: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21
K. Nature: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19

Morvius looks at the party then cast tongues and starts a conversation with the fungus.