GM FurtiveZoog's PFS First Steps, Part I: In Service to Lore (Gamma) (Inactive)

Game Master FurtiveZoog

Fresh off your induction into the Society, the completion of your basic training within the organization, and then finally passing your test of Confirmation, you find yourselves in the office of Ambrus Valsin, the venture-captain in charge of daily operations in and around the Grand Lodge. The efficient and straightforward chamberlain greets your group curtly and motions for you to sit before jumping straight into your assignment.

”All right, Pathfinders! Listen up. I know you are new recruits eager to make names for yourselves in the organization, but first we need to make sure you are up to snuff and won’t get yourself killed out there. I have a number of small assignments for you and your team, and it would be best if you could finish them before the day’s end.

“Every day we get some doe-eyed hopeful or some sniveling bootlicker willing to do anything to join up with the Pathfinders. Most of them are good kids, but not all of them have the salt to make it in a world like this. It’s rough out there and I’m not just talking about the ruins, tombs, and wilderness Pathfinders find themselves in on missions. We’ve got people who look down their noses at us, folks who think we squander our resources, and agents who want to take everything we have collected. This wealth of knowledge and these items of lore make us the most powerful organization on the planet. That said, since we are fractured and widespread, it’s difficult for that power to light on anything for too long. For every friend of the Society, there are two enemies.

“Your first mission, to test your mettle and loyalties, sends you to meet a few people important to the Society living here in Absalom. These are other venture-captains or close allies of our organization, so follow their orders as you would mine. I’ve prepared a list of things I want you to do. They’re not arranged in any particular order of importance, but I want them all completed as quickly as possible. Only report to me once you complete them all. Included in the envelope you hold in your hands is the list, complete with the name of your contact, and directions to the meeting location.”

A tall man in gleaming breastplate leans casually against the wall, his eyes watching the reactions of the new recruits as they get their first briefing. While he was still relatively new to the Society, he had already completed his first mission, and heard the others there tell him tales of theirs. He scratches him blond hair while he motions for the Venture Captain’s attention. ”Sir, I’m not sure I should be here. This ain’t my first mission. “ he says as he hefts his glaive, a very nice weapon when compared to normal ones. Checking his appearance in its polished blade, he strides forward with an air of confidence. ”Now I’ll babysit these recruits and make sure they don’t die, if that’s what the Society and Shelyn wants, but I just thought you should know.”

Turning to the assembled group, his rainbow hued cloak twirling behind him, he adds, ”Names Zander Scott, and I’m a priest of Shelyn. I know you’ll think immediately of a preening peacock, but I’m more of a missionary, and as such, spent far more time with the Whisperer of Souls than with a mirror and hairbrush. Stick together and watch each others backs, and we’ll be just fine. Now, any of you have a preference on where we go first?”

A tall, lean Tengu, wearing a bright red dragon hide breastplate, sits quietly through venture-captain Albris Valsin's briefing. His black feathers hold a tinge of grey along the edges from what appears to be ash. His feathers slightly ruffle in mild surprise as one of the recruits explains he has already been on a mission. He begins to wonder what sort of new recruits he might be working with if this rookie mission has two slightly more experienced members. Or perhaps the Decemvirate is playing it safe and wants this mission to be successful.

"It is an honor to meet you Zander Scott. I am Kawrock of the Phoenix clan. It is nice to see another pathfinder on this mission with an adventure or two under his belt." He adjusts the quarter staff and Nodachi strapped across his back as he stands up."As far as the list, unless someone has a preference, I suggest starting at the top and working our way down."

Can't help but think that the peacock comment was aimed at him some how.

Zander is equally surprised over both the general appearance of a Tengu, and the admittance that he also has field experience. ”Well met Kawrock, it is surprising to be paired up with another of the Tengu race, I had not known them to be as prevalent in the Society. I do hope you have a bit more sense than the last one. He decided it a smart idea to ride a horse into underground tunnels and around a multi floored house. Have you ever seen an armored warhorse trying to sneak up a flight of stairs? Were it not for the silver tongue of our Oracle, I fear there would have been much more blood shed than there was. She managed to convince the owner of the house not to turn it into glue.” he says with a chuckle.

Clicks his tongue in amusement."Sounds like you were with a samurai warrior. We have an old saying in my clan. It is easier to separate a samurai from his mate, then his mount. I myself only use horses as a means of travel so you need not worry of a repeat performance from me."

His eyes focus on Zander's glaive. That is a fine weapon, I have been meaning to upgrade my own weapons, but have not made up my mind yet. I was thinking about acquiring a cold iron weapon. I heard they are a must have if you get called up to Mendev.

Zander shrugs noncommittally, ”I have never needed specialty weaponry. Pretty much everyone I have fought so far has fallen after one swing of the Whisperer. If you would like cold iron, then that will work for you.”

Clicks his tongue in amusement. "If the demons of the world wound could be taken out in one swing, I do not think the society would be sending so many resources to Mendev. I am just trying to think ahead is all".Tilts his head to the side as if pondering something. I am curious, why do you call it the Whisperer?"

A tall, heavily-built Taldan warrior watches the interchange between the Tengu and the cleric with amusement. "Odd company we keep. You can count on us, Ambrus, I assure you." He looks over at the tengu, then the cleric, as if assessing his allies. "A promising start."
To Zander he says, "Although I also travel with a mount, you'll find me more capable than your former colleague."
To Kawrock he says, "I don't know much about 'tengu', I'm afraid. But if I'm going to be watching your back, we're on the right assignment."

The young girl standing quietly in the corner listens intently during the Venture-Captain's briefing. The perceptive might notice her nod in agreement at his "rough world" comment, sigh at the mention of being looked down upon, and start slightly as she begins reading over the task list.

Suppressing a giggle at Zander's "peacock" remark, she glances over at his rainbow cloak before her eyes briefly flit down to her own outfit. Suddenly self-conscious, she shrinks farther into the corner in an effort to be less conspicuous... a virtual impossibility given the blindingly colorful silks, sparkling jewelry, and bold tattoos that adorn her.

Those offended by chibiform should look away now; for the rest, this is a fairly accurate rendition. Chibi-wise speaking, that is.

Despite never having seen such in her young life, Tuich tries not to stare at the imposing Tengu. She starts to speak when he comments on the task order, then hesitates as the conversation continues.

When a break in the discussion presents itself, she clears her throat nervously and quietly says, "Looking at this list... taking it in order would do -- especially if it's all completed in one day -- but a curative delivery takes priority on principle alone."

In the hanging silence that follows, her eyes flick up from the paper to see all eyes upon her... and she suddenly feels very small and out of place. "*Cough* Well... I mean... I should think," she mutters, as her eyes fall back to the paper in her hand.

A tiefling idly read the list of grunt work. He supposed everyone had to start somewhere.

He had light purple skin, with spikes jutting from odd angles from his face. He wore studded leather armor, with a rapier at his hip made of cold iron. A silver mace was strapped to his leg from a holster.

“I agree with the lovely young lady here. Anyone taking advantage of orphans should have their entrails spilled on the floor,” he said casually in a voice that rumbled like distant thunder.

When Tuich looked over, he cast a spell of prestidigitation to have the small list in his hands fold up into a paper person. It then waved at her awkwardly, making an odd crunch noise as it moved.

Think of a Sackboy.

The tiefling winked at her.

“I am Vyk Tyr, by the way. Please, call me Vyk.”

Impressed (and somewhat shocked) at the tiefling's remark, Eurydes nods in agreement at the comment about the orphans. "Indeed, and where are my manners, I am Eurydes, a Cavalier of the Order of the Dragon."
Studying the list further, he smiles inwardly at a thought of some day exploring the ruins in Osirion. Although that is a problem for another day. "It would be simplest to attend to this mission in the order presented, but the Temple of the Shining Star matter seems the more urgent, given that it relates to the welfare of children."

"Tuich," she mumbles as she cuts her eyes briefly towards the Tiefling, seemingly unmoved by his cantrip and flirtatious manner.

" 'Verify the character of the recipient?' " she reads in quiet puzzlement.

Vyk nodded to the gathered party. “I’d sweep my hat off to all of you in a grand gesture.”

He then motioned to the four horns jutting from his head.

“But hats and I tend not to get along.”

The paper man in his hand then unfolded, becoming perfectly flat again. He reviewed the list.

“Speaking to the paracountess should be interesting. Chelaxians get so nervous around my kind,” he said with delight. “As if Cheliax isn’t dripping with devils from every doorway. Ha!”

Vyk folded the piece of paper and placed it inside his purse.

“Cailean willing, we could wrap this up in time for drinks. I might even pay.”

Tuich giggles at the hat remark, then raises an eyebrow and looks up from the list at the mention of Cailean.

"I've yet to meet a Caydenite who wasn't a special person," she says while truly studying the Magus for the first time. "Based on that, I look forward to working with you."

"Too, the fear and revulsion surrounding the one Tiefling I've known was totally unfounded." Her gaze returns to the task list as her voice takes on a subtly harder and more formal edge. "Of the Chelish with whom I've had dealings, I cannot say the same."

Turns his head toward the rest of the party. "It is nice to meet all of you". His attention is then grabbed by Vyk's tiny paper man."I agree with Tuich's idea to head to the Temple of the Shining Star. If there are no objections we should head out when everyone is ready." His gaze then returns to the party as the paper man returns to its original shape.

Vyk sat back in his chair and smiled.

“Ah, yes, the Drunken Hero. Now there truly is a god worthy of worship. Songs and libations aplenty, temples that double as alehouses, and no one telling you what to do! I’m convinced most others get this religion thing wrong.”

He then chuckled nervously.

“No offense meant, of course, priest,” he said to Zander.

“And I thank you for your kind words, Tuich. But I’m sad to say that unfortunately the reputation of tieflings is not wholly unfounded. I’ve met enough of us to know. Still, I’ll be sure to crack a cup to your friend. We certainly need all the help we can get."

Tuich smiles at the rapid back-pedal directed towards Zander.

"I doubt this Cleric will take offense; I distinctly heard Shelyn mentioned. You want to talk of song and music? She is a deity to embrace. Plus Cayden himself pursues her favor, if I remember my religious studies correctly. Surely there can be no stronger recommendation!"

She looks over at Zander. "The two of you may in fact have more in common than not."

"As for reputations earned and unearned..." Tuich sighs sadly. "Well, let's just say the ill will towards my people isn't entirely unwarranted, either."

She looks at Vyk again. "But be it Tiefling or Varisian, there are some of us dedicated to atoning for past mistakes. To proving there is worth to be found, yes?"

Her silks and hair ripple in a brief, gentle breeze as she speaks of atoning for past mistakes...

"Yes, Kawrock, indeed we should get ready to leave. And if it wasn't clear before, I second the motion for the orphanage mission. It seems only right to put the welfare of children first."

He nods toward Tuich. "There is ill-will towards my people too, some of it deserved. But we Taldans are also capable of great empathy towards others. And in these strange times, our convictions and our common humanity must be tested."

He looks over at the tiefling and the tengu, then returns to the task at hand. But is there more than being human? I can't fathom it!

Zander laughs out loud, "I am afraid my conversations with My Lady do not revolve around her romantic pursuits. She DOES teach that we should seek inner beauty and not judge those solely on their race or appearance. I am heartened by the general decision to aide the children first, it speaks well of the newest members of the Society."

Hefting his glaive, he remembers the question posed to him by the tengu, "I call it Whisperer in homage to My Lady's Whisperer of Souls, a tainted weapon that she is gradually converting to the ways of the light."

"Ah, the kinship of the unfairly maligned. Truer bonds were never forged."

Vyk smiled and looked thoughtful.

"Say that sounds pretty good, actually. Might make for a good toast. I should write that down."

He then began to search his pockets for parchment and quill.

"Tuich if it is redemtion you seek then you have chosen a difficult but noble journey. I hope you are successful in burning away your past and are reborn from the ashes." gives a quick bow of respect.

Curse it, I meant that to sound generic, how did he...

"Thank you... 'Kawrock', was it? Thank you, truly."

She looks off into the distance for a moment, then returns her gaze to the Tengu.

"Some actions are beyond redemption I think, and the ashes will be the end of it. But what reparations are possible must be made."

Falling silent, Tuich moves to the window and stares out at the streets of Absalom.

Clicks his tongue twice is disappointment. "I am sorry if I upset you Tuich, that was not my intention. I was just trying to acknowledge that your ambition would earn a bit of respect in my clan. We try not to focus to much on a persons past, but on who they are now and what they are striving to become."

Tuich looks over her shoulder at Kawrock. "No, it's alright. The 'thank you' was sincere, and you didn't upset me. I awaken to my burden each morning and it chases me through my dreams every night. Simple words don't make it worse. Certainly not words of support and encouragement."

Her gaze returns to the city streets. "The way you talk of your clan, Kawrock. It's unlike the stories I've heard of Tengu. Your people sound more the sort I'd choose as friends."

The paladin has been observing the chatter among the other recruits, and nods along with the suggestion to deliver the medicine for the orphanage first. She meets the gaze of any of the others with a polite smile, but has been content to let the banter pass around her as she makes a few notes on her copy of the list. Truth be told, finally becoming a member of the Society has her stomach in knots. Was this how the rest of them were feeling?

She feels more at ease as she overhears the cleric, magus, and oracle discussing Shelyn and Cayden, and her smile warms despite herself. Why be anxious?, she chides herself. The goodwill in the room is almost palpable.

Adelaide leans over to Vyk, offering him a piece of parchment and her pen. Coughing lightly to finally quell her nerves, she grins. "You're right, I can imagine that sounding quite excellent over the clank of tankards. Better not lose the paper, though; we've got quite a few things to keep track of in this envelope."

Feeling left out, and a little disappointed with the situation, Eurydes respectfully accepts the matter and resolves to his duty. This is the unit he was assigned to, and the mission of the orphanage must take precedence. He makes sure his gear is accounted for, then stands at the door.

"I'm ready to move out," he says, his back turned to the group, "I'll take point."

I'm not taking this personally, by the way. I know this kind of antihero has risks associated with it, and I am trying to run him in as human a way possible. I hope I'll get a chance to show his compassionate side more soon. By the way, Kawrock, Tuich, Zander, and Vyk, your posts have been impeccable! :) Welcome to the gameplay board, Lady Adelaide!

Arriving at the Temple of the Shining Star, you are immediately directed to Ollysta Zadrian. This paladin of Sarenrae is young in her years, but holds herself with the poise of a queen and warrior simultaneously. As she notices your arrival, she strides forward, giving a smile and nod of camaraderie to Lady Adelaide, and addresses the group in a strong voice.

“Thank the light of Sarenrae you have arrived! I knew Ambrus would come through for us in the Silver Crusade. I desperately need you to bring medicine to an orphanage and let me know if the headmistress, Gilga Baltwin, is deserving of our charity. Since our quest began, the needy have clamored for our aid, and I suspect some are abusing our generosity. It may sound cruel, but there are plenty of dishonest people out in the world eager for easy gold.

“Do you all know of the Silver Crusade? After discovering so many factions splintered the Society, a number of us banded together to proliferate the cause of charity and kindness using the Society’s resources. As it is said, ‘The Dawn brings new light’ and I’ve made it my life’s work to use our recent darkness to bring a new light to the world and to the Pathfinder Society.

”I apologize for straying off point. Will you bring this parcel of medicine to Auntie Baltwin’s Home for Recovery in the Eastgate district?”

Wow, that felt like a fast transition after such a protracted conversation, haha! As we're moving from place to place, Tuich will stay more to the back of the pack and try to be aware of our surroundings, the people we're passing, and so on. Please let me know if/when you want Perception rolls, etc.

"Pardon M'am, but if I might ask for clarification... if we're to 'verify the character of the recipient' as we were briefed, what would you have us do if we feel something's amiss?"

Zander rests a hand on the smaller woman, "We tell the Silver Crusade, and they handle the matter. I doubt they want bloodshed in sight of the children, and we are not the law, as much as some of us think we are. We are simply to use our various skills to determine the character of this person taking the Crusades money and try and determine if she is doing right by the children."

Looking to Ollysta, he adds "Now, can you give us directions to the home or should we find our own way?"

A bit nonplussed, Tuich nods mutely as her mind races.

'Bloodshed?!' How on Golarion did his mind leap straight to bloodshed? Ashava help us if that's the sort of Cleric he is...

Adelaide returns Ollystra's acknowledgement with a quick bow of her head and a smile of her own. "It seems to me that this Silver Crusade has good ideals and plenty of knowledge on how to implement them. The Society is composed of mortals and, as such, given to falliability; no doubt they welcome a warm light to provide a moral compass."

She contemplates for a moment, considering both Zander and Eurydes. "Fellows," she murmurs as an aside to them both. "Are we all needed for each task on the list? Captain Ambrus did mention that they needed to be accomplished as quickly as possible, and it might be expeditious to divide and conquer. I leave it to you to decide, as I may not be as familiar with the customs of the Society as either of you."

Adelaide will glance around the temple without leaving the group, and if time permits, ask Ollystra for more information on the Silver Crusade.

"You make a good point," Eurydes whispers back, "I intend to stay though. This matter is personal for me. I know what it means to have a difficult childhood. I don't wish that on anyone."

Adelaide leans over to Vyk, offering him a piece of parchment and her pen. Coughing lightly to finally quell her nerves, she grins. "You're right, I can imagine that sounding quite excellent over the clank of tankards. Better not lose the paper, though; we've got quite a few things to keep track of in this envelope."

“My thanks, Milady,” Vyk said to Lady Adelaide. He took the quill and paper and jotted it down. He slipped the paper into his purse. “Don’t worry, if I lose my purse, I’ll have bigger issues to worry about,” he said, adding a playful wink.

---

Later, while standing before Ollysta Zadrian, Vyk bowed with a grand, sweeping, dramatic gesture of his arms. His voice rumbled playfully as he said, “Greetings to you, Lady Zadrian. Your light and beauty prove beyond all doubt that the gods are loving, kind and generous. And wish for us to bask in their creations. How can we be of service?”

He then sat back and listened to her introduce the goals of the Silver Crusade. It sounded like a well-meaning bunch, but it seemed to lack that air of adventure he was seeking. Still, a good cause was a good cause. And he certainly wasn’t above lending a hand when needed.

He frowned at the idea of bloodshed in front of the children. Of course, he’d never do that if it could be avoided.

Then Lady Adelaide recommended the tactic of divvying up the tasks.

“Trying to get rid of us so soon, Lady Adelaide. I’m hurt and offended,” Vyk said in a melodramatic tone that easily indicated he was neither of those things. But just to be sure, he winked conspiratorially.

“And I’m afraid I don’t know overmuch about the Pathfinders’ rules and regulations. I mostly glanced at the rulebook. But I’m sure they’re mostly guidelines, anyway. And really, if there was any true rush, I’m sure they would have assigned them to more seasoned personnel.”

“So we might as well stick together and enjoy each other’s company. Besides, I assure you that the meeting with the Paracountess is likely to be a lot of fun. You don’t want to miss that. I plan on being insufferable. Arriving fashionably late should only add to the enjoyment,” he said with a wide grin.

"And honestly, Eurydes is right. This has priority."

I think Ambrus would want you to stay together, as you are team and, hopefully, bring different skills to the table. And, as Marcos Farabellus, the Master of Swords, would tell you during your Pathfinder training: "Don't split the party!"

Sorry, Tuich, that was a too-fast transition. Here's is one part I wrote but forgot to include:

Ambrus gives you an additional paper with directions to each task, and nods to you, saying simply "Good luck."

You leave the Grand Lodge in the Foreign Quarter and head just east towards the Temple of the Shining Star, the Ascendant Court’s massive temple to Sarenrae, to meet with Ollysta Zadrian, a retired Pathfinder now operating the Silver Crusade, an effort to use the Society’s resources to help those in need and spread good deeds throughout the world, winding your way through the bustling city, often having to take some side street because of an extravagant religious process or a simple jam of camel carts. (If you like, you can take two carts to get around the city - each holds about four people - for only one copper penny for each leg of your journey.)

~~~~~

(Ollystra maintains a grand but sphinx-like expression before Vyk Tyr's grand display.)

Ollystra looks at Zander and replies, "Exactly so. We have suspicions on some evidence that our too-scarce resources may not be well-used. We would wish for you to investigate for yourself whether Auntie Gilga Baltwin is honest and running the home according to legitimate practices; be observant and report back to me your findings."

Ollystra hands you the package along with the address and necessary directions for finding the Eastgate residence.

Ollystra is happy to discuss the Silver Crusade with Lady Adelaide and the group: "As you probably know, there are many groups and factions, large and small, that work to influence an organization as powerful as the Pathfinder Society. The most prominent of these have typically have been the same as independent Absalom's most prominent suitors, currently Andoran the egalitarian, Taldor the imperial mother, Osirion the ancient, Qadira, the trade-hungry, and, unfortunately, Cheliax, the infernal. Additionally, there are those who will always remain most loyal to the Decemvirate and the Grand Lodge of Absalom, those who will clash with the Decemvirate, and those who, sadly, will work for most strongly for selfish, or even criminal, interests."

"In the past, we often took Andoran's tasks as our own, but our methods often differ, and our goals are not tied to the fortunes or intrigues of any one country. We seek to rise above the petty political intrigues and, as you so eloquently phrase it, 'welcome a warm light to provide a moral compass'."

"But, I risk delaying you too long. May the blessings of Sarenrae be on you and your mission."

I also forgot to ask for the traditional 'marching order', so I'll let you determine that.

Let me know how you plan on beginning the investigation.

... those who, sadly, will work most strongly for selfish, or even criminal, interests.

Regarding marching order, I'm open to the group's decision but Tuich would gravitate towards the rear of the pack on her own, at least while on the move. As mentioned above, she'll be regularly scanning her surroundings keeping an eye out for anything questionable or... erm... "interesting."

Adelaide thanks Ollystra for meeting with them and gives her another quick bow of her head when the party begins to leave.

Adelaide will be as near the front as she can without being on point; she is more used to the streets of Magnimar than Absalom and would prefer to let someone with better local awareness take the lead. As they travel, she pays attention to the state of the streets: are there people begging on street corners? Do pickpockets slink among the crowds? Are there squatters or homeless people in the alleyways? Her main interest is what the conditions seem to be in the streets for those who are poor. To that extent, she prefers to walk instead of taking camel carts unless the distance is unreasonable.

Gives a swift bow to Lady Ollystra. "Greetings I am Kawrock of the Phoenix Clan." Listens as the other members of his party ask Lady Ollystra various questions. "I had a question regarding the package. If we do find this, Gilga Baltwin, unworthy of the charity of the Silver Crusade should we return the package to you? That way it can be given to those who need it most."

I can take point or bring up the rear.

Zander would probably be 2nd or 3rd in line, depending on preference of others.

"No offense to the Lady, but I feel we should complete these tasks together. There is no telling what may happen, and Pathfinders are supposed to work more as a team and less like individuals with a common goal." comments Zander as they head to the home.

"I have an idea on where to begin our little investigation. Perhaps we ask her neighbors and shop keeps on the same street? They would have no reason to lie to us, and it may give us insight into her before we have to face her directly?" Assuming the others agree, as they near the home, Zander will approach the people in the street, asking about the home in general, the conditions of the children, how they spend their days, and if they have noticed anything concerning about them?

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21

"We could also ask one of the children. Kids got a good sense for people. It probably shouldn't be me, though. Not unless we want to give them nightmares.

I'm good with the middle.

She nods in agreement with the two plans that have been offered, with a small smile at Vyk's self-debasing comment. "Hasn't this organization taken donations from the Society before? We could ask her directly to show us what she's done with the previous donations, if that's the case."

I'm not sure if I'm supposed to roll Perception for my last post or if you just roll our perceptions as a block.

"Indeed, talking to the neighbors would likely give more honest answers," Eurydes says, "However, Vyk's point is valid as well. I was thinking along the same lines, actually. Children do tend to be more honest than adults, but we may have to talk through excuses from Gilga to get to them. Forewarned is forearmed."

I'll join in with the skill checks in a bit. I'm not using my computer right now.

Tuich nods. "I was thinking much the same. When we reach the building I'll see if there's a way to slip 'round it unnoticed. Perhaps there's a private play area in back, and if it's unsupervised I may be able to speak with some of the children."

She smiles disarmingly. "I'm not dressed for sneaking, so if someone spots me it's less likely they'll think I'm doing so, versus just being a typical woman who adores children."

Nods his head in agreement at all the great ideas. "I think we might learn a lot by questioning the neighbors as Zander suggested." Turns and looks at Tuich. I think you may be more sucessful if you wait for our silvery crusader friend to get Gilga's attention at the front door."

"As for myself I think I will hang back with Vyk since I might also be a little unsettling to humans."

Zander's smooth tongue and disarming nature gathers a considerable amount of information from the neighbors.

Miltivis, who runs a nearby market, claims he’s served Auntie Baltwin for over 30 years, and while a good customer, she is quite demanding and often rude to the other customers. He says she’s kept his supplier of fine whiskeys in business for decades.

Gilga Baltwin’s neighbors Travost and Tirelle Anthos are frankly tired of the noises the children make and the retinue of cats—though they do appreciate the latter’s mousing skills. They admit to being happy when Auntie Baltwin sends the children “off into the town” during the day, as it gives them a few hours of peace and quiet before they return in the evening.

At the estate across the street, Master Trebb Bonto, a retired builder, says nothing but nice things of Lady Baltwin, as he calls her. He recounts tales of tea and games on the sitting porch, though if pressed, he lets slip that she often cheats at games and sometimes had some shady characters coming to whisper in her ear and palm her small bags of what might have been money before slinking away. “Otherwise a fine lady, indeed.” he quickly adds.

Tuich does see some children out in the yard and some on the side porch who might be approachable before going into the house.

Tuich would ask for more details when Travost and Tirelle mention the children being sent off into town, questioning if they were under adult supervision at those times, and what age they would say the oldest child was if not... as well as how late in the day they usually return.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16

" 'Kept his supplier of fine whiskeys in business'?, " she whispers behind her hand to Eurydes. "For one with children in their charge, that doesn't sound proper at all!"

Based on the rudeness comment, she'll suggest that someone listen quietly at the door or a window before knocking to see if they overhear any shouting or other unpleasantness.

Tuich does see some children out in the yard and some on the side porch who might be approachable before going into the house.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10

Bleh.

To pick up any indications of whether the child/children feel like they're under any pressure to say good things else risk punishment, etc.:

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (2) + 3 = 5

Hrm... I guess she's not good with children...

While this is going on she'll keep one eye on the front door and what the rest of the party is doing, and the other eye on her surroundings -- especially any people nearby.

Perception: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (9) + 0 = 9

Sigh.

"There doesn't seem to be anything quite definitive. But I think we can all agree that the bits and pieces we’re gathering are at least troubling."

Vyk’s hands clenched into fists and errant wisps of magical energy gathered about him, as a sound not unlike a growl rumbled in his throat. He took a few calming breaths.

“Sorry, but the thought of anyone taking advantage of children like this -- We Caydenites often run orphanages.”

He sighed. “We may need to simply confront her directly.” A cruel looking smile, curled his lips. "Should be interesting."

"Yes, it should. But Shelyn teaches us to look at the whole person as we search for inner beauty. Though she may have her vices, if she treats her wards well enough, then I will be happy. This sending them off into the town has me concerned though, and definitely something we should address with the woman directly." comments Zander after reporting his news.

Ready to talk to the bat lady!

After hearing about a large number of cats he starts looking around, trying to get an estimate on how many cats there might be.

GMFZ if I recall you were planning on making the perception and initiative rolls? I would like to make a perception check for cats. Also I asked Lady Ollystra a question you might have missed.