GM Fuzzfoot's Mushroom Brigade (Inactive)

Game Master PJP

Place holder for a yet-to-be-named scenario

Dotted

DOT!

dot. good to be back with an awesome group!

Dot

Your new assignment arrives in the form of a letter.

Handout 1

It looks like you will be travelling to Katheer.

Giovanni lowers the page after reading and passes it to Shlevin. That penmanship is unreal...Looks like we'll be joining Aaqir al'Hakam to the wake of his aunt Princess Zarmina Bahjari. A sad afair.

"It's great to see you all again!" Shlevin exclaims as he sees the group together. "I missed you guys, I'm glad the society thought it wise to bring us all together."

Grabbing the letter from Giovanni and reading it Shlevin begins, [b]"I'm not a big fan of death, but I suppose we must pay our respects. No disrespect, but I am excited to see these items he is bringing. I wonder what is to happen to the ones we don't offer?." He passes the note down to the others. "I've never heard of a trade prince before I wonder what they do? And I'm curious as to what other work he could have. I always enjoy the word lucrative." Shlevin rambles out loud as many questions flow through his head.

"It is nice indeed to see you all again." "So we go and follow orders, show solidarity, and all." "It beats searching in the sewers." "We are moving up in the world" "I am good at staying quiet and looking sad. What is this stuff about a gift? I am not so good and at appraising and picking gifts."

"Do you think we need nicer clothes?" "I just have my travel things." "My armor is heavy but it is clean and shiny." "Does it pass for a wake?"

Haska will buy a courtier outfit that has a jacket with many pockets for vials and stuff and wand sheath in the left sleeve. (30 gp) He will keep his armor on and pack handy. No game mechanics change, just nicer looking. He will leave his sling and bullets behind.

I apologize for the wall of text, but I think this is better to give you all at once rather than piecemeal.

You make your way to Katheer, to the Pathfinder lodge operated by Venture-Captain Esmayl ibn Qaradi, who is abroad. The letter seems to be your only instructions. The items he spoke of are waiting for you in a room.

It contains a silver-chased scimitar, a gold ring bearing three sapphires, or a steel shield bearing an image of Sarenrae painted in gold and studded with garnets. You will need to select one to take to the wake. Once you have selected one, you make your way to the Bahjari manor.

This setup is weird, because it assumes you visit the manor before asking any questions, but apparently you are supposed to choose an item before. I am going to move ahead to start addressing the questions you already are asking, but feel free to also ask questions and examine the items, and discuss among yourselves before locking it in. You can have this discussion in the Discussion tab if you prefer.

The Bahjari estate is located on the outskirts of Katheer, where its halfdozen buildings have ample space to sprawl across the family’s land. The largest building is the manor house, a two-story structure made of whitewashed stucco over stone. The home has several wings that fan out through well-maintained gardens to accommodate visiting merchants and other businesspeople.

Once you arrive, servants of Zarmina’s family open the door and usher you in. "We have rooms prepared, and fruit and cheese and drinks waiting for you. As soon as you are ready, Trade Prince Aaqir al’Hakam will see you in the study."

The two-story hall stands at the center of the manor. Its ground floor is comprised of an elegant mosaic of blue and white tiles laid out in intricate geometric patterns. Central stairs lead to the upper level and additional doors that lead to the family’s apartments. The double doors to the north open into the temple of Sarenrae that the Bahjaris maintain.

Most of its ceilings are 10 feet high, and the doors are made of strong wood. The entire manor is furnished, though the spacious rooms sometimes make the interior seem rather empty compared to that of a typical Absalom townhouse.

The estate’s guest apartments are spacious and well lit, providing a place for visitors to relax and do business. Each has several chairs, bookshelves, a desk, soft rugs, and storage space for a traveler’s luggage. A set of double doors leads to a smaller bedroom. You rooms are comfortable, but you don't want to keep your host waiting, so you drop your gear and join him in the study.

Dressed in a white linen robe tied with a silk sash, Trade Prince Aaqir al’Hakam stands behind a desk in this small study. He spreads his arms wide in welcome, though his face speaks to his fatigue and grief. “You are a welcome sight, Pathfinders, and I trust you are here at the behest of the esteemed Esmayl ibn Qaradi. As you can tell, this is not a day to uncover fresh secrets. Rather, it is one of mourning for Zarmina Bahjari—a noble trade princess, my mentor, and the reason I ever became a trade prince. I am here to see to her estate, act as executor of her will, and carry on her commercial interests.

“It may seem strange to engage in business during so somber an occasion, but trade happens quickly in Qadira; my late aunt by marriage would actually be disappointed were I not to wrangle her vulture-like competitors into submission. Even so, it would be unseemly for a member of Zarmina’s family to conduct business at her wake.

When asked about proper dress, he respond “The local custom is to wear at least some white. However, Zarmina had many foreign contacts who are likely to attend in many styles of dress, so as long as you are clean and presentable, you are welcome to wear what you wish."

“Though I have inherited much from my mentor, I do not intend to sit idly and live off her successes. It is still my intention to strengthen trade routes with throughout the Inner Sea while making the Pathfinder Society my chief ally. I want you to stand as an example of what we have to gain by continuing to work with the western nations.

“For that reason, I requested the Society’s aid because we have only a brief window of opportunity to speak with our rivals and convince them instead to become our allies. There are five in particular that I would benefit from your attention, and I understand several of them maintain their own rivalries with one another. Win over as many as you can, and I shall speak with them afterward to negotiate any details. Is that agreeable?”

You may also each make a Knowledge, local or religion check.

I would suggest the silver-chased Scimitar. Practical, but ornate.

First, our deepest concolences Trade Prince. We understand the need to continue the business and honor your aunt's legacy. We are at your service.

The ring, no? small and not easily lost or stolen.

knowledge local untrained: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 2 = 22

untrained knowledge i cap at the result for DC 10, correct?

"I agree. We would be happy to help in this time of need. Could you offer us any kind of aid? While we are quite capable it's always best to be as prepared as possible." He pats the vials on his belt and nods. "And we all offer our condolences of course, I've only heard great things about the princess."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 (If needed)

I vote ring. It's a pretty universal item I figure. My second choice would be shield.

"What sort of aid do you mean? This is a mission to make contact, maybe connect on a personal level."

"We will help however we can. We are sorry for your loss."

The ring is fine. Whichever looks the most expensive.

Haska listens politely to Aaqir al'Hakam's instructions. But asks for a little more information on how to impress as a Pathfinder.

"I do have one little concern. You want us to stand as examples of what you have to gain by continuing to work with the western nations." "How are we as Pathfinders useful to your business and how will your potential allies be impressed." "Are we to tell stories of tales similar to the chronicles?" "Are we to dazzle with knowledge of our particular areas of expertise?" "Whatever it is you would like us to be examples, I for one will give you my utmost to accomplish it."

Haska bows slightly as he pledges his help.

knowledge local untrained: 1d10 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 3 = 7

"This will be up to you, but of course I hope you manage to put us both in a good light."

The mechanics for this mission are fairly specific. Your goal is to gain influence among the major guests in attendance at the wake. Throughout the adventure, the PCs have several opportunities to garner influence, impress their fellow guests, and earn the respect of several powerful merchants of the Inner Sea region. Whenever the scenario allows you to attempt an Influence check, you may select one NPC in attendance to try to influence. Each PC can attempt a Bluff check (to pretend to be friendly), a Diplomacy check (to be genuine), or a different skill check specific to that person's interests (each will have 2). If you meet or exceed the check, you get an Influence point. For every 5 over, you get another. There are also ways to get bonuses on these checks, but you will have to play that out.

most seem in favor of the ring then
knowledge local untrained: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17

-Posted with Wayfinder

Lady Finley dressed in her finest Taldan courtier clothing wearing a necklace and wrist cuffs featuring semi-precious stones arrives with the other Pathfinders at the Bahjari estate. "I will do my best to show both the Pathfinder Society and you in an excellent light." Surprisingly she looks comfortable in the fine clothing.

"We brought you a gift from Venture-Captain Esmayl ibn Qaradi. He also sends his condolences on your loss."

If I may I'd like to pick up a set of Courtier Clothing and 50 GP worth of Jewelry as well as a wand of cure light using 2 PP before we head out.

Forgot the Know Local Roll

Know Local: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

"Some background on these guests for starters. Maybe their interests, or what they dislike. Any information that would be helpful that you or your associates may know. Magic items or potions that help persuade people would be nice as well." Shlevin replies, wishing he had thought of something before asking the question.

If you could please just jot down the names of these individuals and any relevant notes on this paper. That would be very helpful.

Giovanni offers some paper and a pen from his desk.

"Shlevin, I don't think you want to try an use magic coercion." "I once read about a group of pathfinders that tried to charm a gillmen. He did not take the attempt lightly and the whole thing almost ended in violence." "Oh no, I think we are wanted for something much more challenging." "It's called small talk."

As the rest of the Pathfinders learn about their newest assignment, one of the doors to the room opens slowly and a figure steps in. It may take a moment, to recognize Sumil, as the garish clothes full of color he usually wears have been replaced with modest white attire.

"Ah, my friends, I had not expected you to be the other Pathfinders sent her for this assignment." He smiles politely to everyone. "My apologies Trade Prince, I have some family in the area that I have not seen for some time, I stopped in to borrow more formal clothing for this sombre event."

Sumil settles down and listens quietly as the trade prince answers the others questions. When he has a moment, he explains the normal funeral rites in this area of the world.

K. Religion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
A typical wake begins as a somber affair, but it’s common for the mood to lighten as the sun warms the room and the living share stories about the deceased and comfort the surviving family members.
As dusk approaches, those in attendance wish the deceased peace through speeches and gifts that might accompany the deceased to the grave. Not only does this honor the dead, but it’s also an opportunity to comfort the living and remind those present to make the world a better place.
A less common funerary practice involves exposing the corpse to the sun for a week or more in conjunction with simple magic to prevent the corpse from decomposing. During this time, family and friends watch over the body to keep scavengers away.

I've decided to bring Sumil in after all, as he's much better suited to this scenario.

"Luckily for me I love to talk. We should do just fine! But I meant something not to trick them into liking us, more something that would make us more appealing to them."

Haska will tie his hair back with a white ribbon and adorn his sleeves with white bands. He will wear a clean white shirt as well.

"Sumil, it is wonderful to see you. Once again you have saved me. This time from embassment. I have a fine black jacket I was going to wear. Now i will lighten it up with ribbons."

"I do not have any magic to give you, and I would warn you that getting caught using these means will not achieve the results you want. This is not about short term agreements, but you want to gain trust and influence to build lasting relationships."

"Temel Passad is a prophet of Kalistrade, an adherent to a strict set of personal codes that supposedly aid in one’s earning wealth. He is a clever man that the Society has dealt with before—typically under pleasant circumstances. His business ventures sometimes compete with those of the Five Kings Mountains, which has led to a rivalry with Metella Rauger."

"Doritannia Raffella buys and sells alcohol and spirits. She comes from a common household yet elevated her status through her own acumen and hard work, though she recently fell on hard times. No doubt her experience would be a valuable asset to any business venture."

"Metella Rauger represents several trading houses from the Five Kings Mountains, and she has worked with the Society and its allies before. She’s stubborn but fair. No doubt she will be on edge here thanks to Temel Passad’s having decided to attend and honor Zarmina’s memory."

"Pellius Melkior is from Andoran and has established himself as a reliable trader of durable goods in his country. Rumor has it that he has also looked into expanding his business into the River Kingdoms and Taldor."

"Jakti al’Awar has spent much time abroad and only recently returned to Qadira. He maintains a small business in magic items, and some speculate that his travels and business are primarily for scholarly purposes. What is known is mostly speculation; he is something of an unknown here."

"sounds like we have our work cut out for us. I am not great at conversation, but our aid is surely yours."

-Posted with Wayfinder

"I was half joking about the items, can't you see we are likeable enough?" Shlevin flashes a big smile. "I suppose we are ready to mingle then. Johnn, you're correct, we do have our work cut out for us."

"That was a good one, Shlevin. I was already looking for ways to cover your attempts. You really had me fooled."

"I grew up near Daggermark in the River Kingdoms. Maybe that is enough of an 'in' to start up a conversation with Pellius Melkior." "But forgive me my ignorance, what durable goods does he trade?" "I used to work for an alchemist and our goods were definitely not durable and were mostly explosively expendable." "I think I will aim to talk with him, but don't want to insult him with too many questions or with my ignorance of 'durable'."

Haska will ask for a description of Pellius. He will also ask for an idea of goods he deals in specifically. I have no idea what is considered a durable good.

"I spent time in Taldor, and have knowledge of that kingdom. I'm happy to mingle with all of the guests to speak with them. I imagine no many people have had a chance to speak with a grippli. That may help our cause. We will do our best to secure alliances." She gives Shlevin a long look.

I don't expect a mechanical advantage, but the RP opportunities will be interesting.

Sometimes good roleplay can turn into a mechanical advantage (hint hint).

"Durable goods won't spoil. For instance, jewelry or armor, leather goods, rope. Non-durable goods would largely include foods. And I, or my assistants, will point out the people as they arrive, so you won't need to guess who is who."

This is now the third scenario I am running currently with Temel Passad in it. I'm learning so much about him.

"As something of a scholar and collector of magical items, I may be able to find some common ground with Jakti al'Awar, our mutual heritage aside, yes?" Sumil says with some thought.

"Tell me Trade Prince, this rivalry between Passad and Metella. Do you believe it is something we may be able to lay to rest, or might we be forced to choose between the two?"

Giovanni was trying to surreptitiously get a sample of the Trade Prince's handwriting, and a signature if possible.

I have every confidence in this group. We've talked our way out of stickier situations. Giovanni says with a smirk.

"That we have Giovanni! I worry very little about our group's ability to communicate." He smiles a little flashing back to a certain instance in the sewers. "When will the guests be arriving and how long will we have to talk to them?"

No luck on the handwriting. Sumil - or anyone else for that matter: do you have a chronicle for Scenario #5–01: The Glass River Rescue?

"Passad and Metella seem to be at odds. You will need to explore this relationship, I think. It may not be possible to put the on the same side of any negotiation."

"The wake will begin shortly. Please, enjoy your rooms while you get ready, but I have last minute preparations to oversee as well. Thank you."

Nope, that's one I'm running with a different PC at the moment, unfortunately. I hadn't realized they were related.

"Ah, well, hopefully we can sort them out then. Thank you for your time Trade Prince, I hope we can be of assistance in this tough time for you."

Sumil bows politely as their host leaves and he looks to the rest and shrugs.

"No gas leaks to blow up this time, I think, but plenty of bloated egos to stroke. Merchants can be prickly, but I think we're up to task, my friends. After turning those Steel Wyverns away in the sewers, I think we're ready for anything."

"I believe we may have to 'pick a man' so to speak and try our luck with mingling." "There are 5 prospective merchants and 6 of us you know." The sixth person may try to float and aid as necessary." "I wish I knew more of their individual hobbies or interests, It would help me to better focus my talents to best advantage."
Haska sighs and sits down to eat a little.
"Ah, well, we will cross that bridge later." "Might as well rest a while until things start."

"I'll assist however I can, but my areas of expertise are killing monsters, and a dabbling of alchemy. Neither of which seem useful at the moment, friends."

-Posted with Wayfinder

"You never know Johnn. Someone might be interested in hearing how you killed a certain monster or the best alchemical concoction you know. We shall see. I too will go rest before the wake. I wonder if I can get a cool bath. The air here is very dry." Lady Finley heads back to her room.

"I think it best to split our attention in the beginning to get a feel for the guests, then regroup once we know a bit about them and decide who is best suited for each person. I will see you soon, friends." And with the Shlevin waddles off to his room to play with a few chemicals before the wake.

After some time to rest and clean up, a knock at the door is heard.

Aaqir al’Hakam smiles as you open the door, and asks you if you would like to meet some of the other guest, including family and friends.

He explains that in addition to its honoring the deceased, Zarmina’s wake is an occasion for extended family and friends to reunite, reminisce, and renew their bonds. Several of these guests are only now arriving from abroad, though the Bahjari family has provided rooms for many out-of-town visitors who are already mingling in the manor’s entry hall.

Leading you to a lovely lady, he says "Ah, here is the love of my life, Emir Thalzar Gaatan. And these are our three daughters." The woman smiles and greets you warmly, and the girls are a little stiff, clearly a little uncomfortable in the present situation.

After a few moments, he points out Umut Tepemkau, a visiting cleric of Pharasma and friend from Zarmina’s younger days whom her will specified should oversee her interment; al’Hakam notes that she is busy with preparations and might be available to chat later.

As each of the guests of interest appear, Aaqir points them out.

Temel Passad is a tall man with carefully groomed hair and an oiled beard. He wears pristine white clothing heavy with gold embroidery and gems.

Doritannia is an attractive Taldan woman in her 30s with long brown hair.

Metella is a redheaded dwarf who wears a tabard emblazoned with the Five Kings Mountains heraldry.

Pellius is a clean-shaven man of average height with sandy-brown hair.

Jakti is large and somewhat physically imposing figures.

Most of the guests are already present and chatting with one another, and they are scattered throughout the entry hall (area A1) and the southern half of the temple (area A2).

"You are also welcome to explore the rest of the manor, though there are few people elsewhere on the estate at this time. Furthermore, the doors to most of the apartments are kept locked for the guests’ privacy. I am sure you understand."

Once he feels you are comfortable enough, Aaqir excuses himself to speak with other guests and ensure that the funerary arrangements are taken care of.

Mechanically, you have to opportunity here to make up to 2 Influence checks each. Feel free to mingle, chit chat, discuss, and when you are ready, tell me who you are trying to influence, and how (or ask me, and I can tell you which rolls to make). To earn an influence point with an NPC, use either a Bluff check (to pretend to be friendly), a Diplomacy check (to be genuine), or a different skill check based on their specific interest. You can aid each other rather than making your own checks, but each of you only gets 2 rolls (aid or check).

"I will try my luck with Doritannia if you all don't mind. The lady with the booze and I may have quite a bit in common." Shlevin says in a hushed voice that only the group can hear before making his way toward her to introduce himself.

"Lady Doritannia, I would like to welcome you to this most unfortunate gathering." He gives a slight bow. With their height difference this puts his head about at her knee. "I'm Shlevin, and I must say I'm a fan of your work. How do you do?"

"I will talk with Pellius. He is from my area of the world"

Haska makes his way to Pellius and inclines is head in greeting.

"Good day to you Master Pellius, Aaqir al'Halam tells me you do business in the River Kingdoms." "I am from that area originally, what new have you of that corner of the world." Haska pasues for a reply.

"The last time I was there I was working to secure a rare historical weapon, a sickle by the name of Silverhex. I traveled from Daggermark to Numeria to Ram...oh, but I ramble." "Well, perhaps you could tell me a little about your business?"

Haska is fishing for a common interest perhaps nature or arcane magic or even alchemy crafting.

Doritannia response to Shlevin, "Fan of my work? Really? Is it my work, or my goods that you cherish?"

Pellius looks over Haska, not really sure what to make of him. "To be honest, I don't do much trade there... yet. I am interested in that part of the world, though. Do you have friends, or family, in the area?"

"I suppose it is time to begin, yes? Good luck my friends, do not be afraid to call on one another for help." Sumil pats the other pathfinders on the shoulder as he passes each of them and heads over to Jakti al'Awar.

"Jakti al'Away, hello, I am Sumil al'Yza, another guest at this unfortunate affair. Where you close with Zamina? I confess I did not know her very well, but I am here to assist the Trade Prince and would like, I think, to know a little more about the woman we mourn today."

Giovanni sees the group disperse and isn't sure exactly who to try to entice first. As is his process he wants a little context first.

Giovanni will mingle and Gather Information for any or all of the targets as possible and offer aid when going for influence. Currently a +7 for Bluff and Diplomacy.

diplomacy gather info: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21
diplomacy gather info2: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20

Follow Up (Ex)

An investigator can roll twice on any Diplomacy check made to gather information, and receives the information for both results. This takes the same amount of time as one check. If the lesser of the two checks reveals false information, the rogue is aware of it.

Jakti is accompanied by two bodyguards, who initially stops Sumil from approaching. After a short nod, Jakti listens to Sumil's opening line. "Zarmina was a great business woman. I will miss our times together. Perhaps, though, new friends will be made this day."

What does the dwarf make/produce, or do we not know? I don't think that one was disclosed yet.

You are able to discover that Metella Rauger is a traveling representative of several Highhelm mercantile consortia, so no product in particular.

I'll try my luck with her though, anyway.
"Greetings, it is Metalla Raugar no? while I would have preferred to make such an acquaintance under better circumstances, one needs to take opportunities as they arrive, no? I understand that you represent the trade houses from the five king mountains, and thanks to our mutual friend, Aaqir Al'Halam, I was informed that some of the goods produced by those you represent, might intrigue me."