GM KApp's - The Segang Expedition (Inactive)

Game Master Keith Apperson

Game by invite only.

A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for levels 1–5.

Rumors of a lost shrine in the Segang Jungle draw the Pathfinder Society’s attention, but the prohibitive cost of sending a team into the wilds of Jalmeray threatens to shut down the expedition before it even begins. Fortunately, a wealthy patron has offered to fund the PCs travel expenses in return for their help in his decades-old quest. Can the Pathfinders balance this new obligation with their exploration of the archaeological site?

Content in “The Segang Expedition” also contributes directly to the ongoing storyline of the Sovereign Court faction.

Written by Benjamin Bruck.

"bert"

You are all called to the office of Ambrus Valsin. The message you received informed you that you would have plenty of time to prepare after your briefing.

“Ah, Falroun, these are the agents I was telling you about,” Ambrus Valsin says. “Pathfinders, welcome! May I introduce Count Falroun Matsanda of Alkenstar.”

He gestures across his desk to a tall Garundi man with short black hair and gold rimmed spectacles.

Valsin’s guest stands and offers his hand in greeting as he speaks.

“It is a true pleasure to meet you. I have purchased several antiquities from your Society in the past, and I have always wondered about the people who acquire such treasures. I must say, you do not disappoint!”

Valsin smiles at the compliment before continuing, “Agents, your next mission will take you to the island of Jalmeray. We’ve received reports that the ruins of a previously unknown temple have been found in a part of the Segang Jungle known as the Urapangi Lowlands. From its location, I think this temple could be one of those abandoned by the legendary Maharaja KhibenSald when he left Jalmeray over four thousand years ago. A temple untouched since Khiben-Sald’s time would be a major find for the Society. Of course, getting to Jalmeray on such short notice poses some difficulties.”

“I believe that’s where I come in,” the count interjects. “I’m arranging a hunting expedition to Jalmeray for myself and my new father-in-law, Baron Bomande Rudyahm. Bomande was quite the sportsman in his day. However, some years ago he was wounded during a tiger hunt in the Segang Jungle. He’s been grumbling about getting revenge on the beast for so long that I thought taking him on a trip back to Segang might earn me some credit with the old man.”

Ambrus Valsin continues: “Falroun has graciously offered to provide transport to and from Jalmeray and to outfit us with everything we need for our journey into the jungle. In exchange, you’re going to help his father-in-law, the baron, with this tiger hunt and make sure he gets the better of the beast this time around, as it were. You’ll have time to discuss the details of the hunt during your voyage to Jalmeray.”

“A voyage for which I must make some final arrangements,” adds Falroun, “I’m afraid I must depart. Once again, it is a pleasure to meet you. I look forward to our journey together.”

With a nod, he exits the room. As the count’s footsteps recede down the hall, Ambrus Valsin’s smile fades from his face.

“Ordinarily, the Society would cover the costs of an expedition like this. However, our resources are stretched thin at the moment thanks to our campaigns in Varisia and the Worldwound. Until such time as those ventures pay off, we’re going to have to rely on people like Count Matsanda to cover some of our operating expenses. I’m trusting you with the Society’s reputation on this mission. Fulfill our end of this bargain by helping the baron bag his tiger, and try to make nice with at least one of these nobles. Now, unless you have any questions about this temple, go get your affairs in order. Your ship sails in the morning.”

Valore, a rigid looking elf will silently respond to Count Matsanda with appropriate bows and nods... making an effort to show a high amount of respect for the man.

After Valsin's conclusion "Sir, I regret to admit i have not heard of this... KhibenSald. What manner of creatures or devices would we find in his temple?"

Ambrus nods in understanding, "Khiben-Sald was a Vudrani emperor of sorts. It was his travels that brought the Vudran culture to Jalmeray, where he stayed for a while before heading back to Vudra," he pauses for a moment before continuing.

"As far as the temple, we would expect it to be one of the Vudran deities, but we don't know much beyond that. The locals have many superstitions about monkeys though, which could mean Ragdya or Lahkgya, the monkey-faced deities, or Chamidu, the goddess of wild animals. The jungle is dangerous by itself and that danger may have invaded the temple over the years."

Phoenix stands with her blazing red hair and bright eyes, drinking in the scene, her eyes darting from person to person as they speak.

Sitting in a nearby chair is a man whose frame is concealed by a large poncho. His feet are propped up on another chair and a large wide brimmed hat limits visibility of the figure's face. Were it not for the steady stream of cigar smoke rising from underneath the hat and the occasional grumble it would seem as if he were asleep.

A hand emerges from beneath the poncho and reaches under the hat, lazily producing the stump of a smoldering cigar before lowering it to his side. He speaks "What kind of threats should we expect in this jungle, Capitan?"

I'd like to make a knowledge nature roll to figure out what I know about tigers. I'd also like to make any relevant knowledge checks (if listed) to learn more about our mission

Valsin raises an eyebrow at the man in the poncho, waiting a few moments before speaking.

"Jalmeray is hot and muggy. The jungle will be full of bugs and plants looking to do you in any way they can. Poison, venom, disease, all are likely out there."

He leans forward, taking a more serious tone.

"The information we received on this temple wasn't through the most private of channels. There may be others on their way to the temple as well, so be on your guard for less-than-friendly looters."

Poncho Kn. Nature: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9
Unfortunately, Poncho does not know much of tigers off the top of his head. With the rest of the day to prepare though, a trip to the library at the Grand Lodge could likely answer any questions.

You will be able to gather more information (Kn. Local, Diplomacy) once you reach the island.

Poncho takes his feet off the second chair and places them on the floor, now sitting with a slight slouch. He checks his pockets for his coin purse, produces it, and peers inside.

"S#%$. Not enough for antitoxins or antiplagues. If push comes to shove could someone else bum me one? I could return the favor with juand charges."

If I hit up the library later on would I be able to take a 20 on the knowledge nature on tigers? What about other things, like knowledge geography from looking at encyclopedia on Jamelray?

Max will take pains to stand appart from Poncho and Phoenix but will treat everyone else with a rather stiff and perhaps overly formal respect.

"If I might ask, sir, what do we know about the Matsanda and Rudyahm families?

“The Baron, Bomande Rudyahm received his noble title as a reward for his service in the military. He’s something of a war hero, and was instrumental in defending Alkenstar from invasion by the Gorilla King in 2690 ar."

"The other, Count Falroun Matsanda is the youngest son of one of Alkenstar’s wealthiest families, and his marriage to the baron’s daughter bought him a great deal of political support. He’s a serious up-and-comer in Alkenstar politics.”

Time in the library would allow you to take 20 on any knowledges tonight.

”HELLO!” yells an overly excited colorful gnome.

His face can barely contain his wide smile as he beams annoyingly at everyone around him.

” Jalmeray?? We get to go to a jungle? I knew some fey once from a jungle they told me ALL kinds of neat things!”

Prizm takes a deep breath and exhales talking extremely fast.

” A jungle is land covered with dense vegetation dominated by trees. Application of the term has varied greatly during the last several centuries. Jungles in Chelish literature can represent a less civilised or unruly space outside the control of civilization.”

Looking up to and musing slowly.

” It can also be a metaphor! Jungle often refers to situations that are unruly or lawless, or where the only law is perceived to be "survival of the fittest". This reflects the view of "city people" that forests are such places”

Looking a little confused he quips, ”So are we going to a jungle or are we trying to survive and be the fittest? So many options! Oh! My name is Prizm and I am a Fey wizard! I am excited to be here, when do we start!?”

At this point out of the shadows darts a small round bird which dances over behind Prizm and promptly trips him post the gnomes unending rant.

With a small cute curt bow, Bert faces the crowd - atop the toppled gnome.

"bert!"

A startled Poncho falls from his chair, losing his hat in the process--revealing that he is a half-elf.

"The f+@@ is that thing, mang?"

Maximilian sighs deeply.

"I believe a long afternoon in the library is on the agenda. Maximillian is it? You seem a gentleman sort. Have you engaged in hunting sport?"

Valsin nods at the gnome and bird.

"Good. Welcome Bert. You and Prizm should complete the party," he nods at the others in the room. "As we've been discussing, Jalmeray is a real jungle. With tigers. And bugs, animals, and dangerous plants."

You have the night to prepare, resupply, and research. Let me know any specific questions you might have or if you have more questions for Valsin.

You will assemble and head to the docks in the morning, once you are ready, and are told where The Hunter's Cry is docked.

Poncho gets up, dusts himself off, and sets off for the library.

Take 20s on knowledge nature's/geography on tigers and Jamelray. I'd also like to see if I can do any knowledge nobility on Count Matsanda or the Baron and if I can take 20s on those as well.

Maximilian it is indeed, sir. If I'm not mistaken you must be Valore? A fine elven name for an upstanding elven gentleman I should think."

Max bows with the respect one shows to an equal.

I'm afraid, sir, that I don't have any practical experience with hunting to speak of. I've attended a number of fox hunts of course, but those I attended mostly out of obligation. I had hoped you would be more learn'd in the ways of the hunt, but I suppose our coming mission will have to be a learning opportunity for us both!

Also when the opportunity comes up Max'll be purchasing quite a bit
10 vermin repellant 50gp
2 antitoxin 100gp
2 antiplague 100gp

After making his purchases Max will head to the library to meet up with everyone else.

"Hmmmmm I wonder how oppressive the weather will be in the jungle.. perhaps it will affect what spells I prepare!:

Looking over at his faithful avian companion.

"Bert! Fetch me the book on climate for Jalmeray please. Yes yes, its the large extremely heavy book over there near that tall proper looking human woman......."

Prizm trails off and looks away quickly when he realizes that aristocratic looking lady is in fact, actually Maximilian.. and not a woman at all.

"Oh dear.... Bert come on already we need to study and be prepared!"

Looking to see if I will need to memorize endure elements basically

Bert hops up and attempts to move the book, and realizes this will take considerable Dodo power to get it to his master.

The bird rapidly pecks Maximilian on the boot and gestures for a little help.

"BERT!"

He also bats what would could only be considered a birds eyelashes at Maximilian.

On tigers: reference the PRD entry here.

On Jalmeray: You would expect to find tigers there, for sure. The jungle is dense and humid, but you do not feel you would need endure elements.

On the other hand, the bugs... The area where the temple is supposed to be looks to be swampy and there may be a chance of diseases such as malaria there, especially during sleep.

On nobility: Both families are well known and powerful, but there is not much in the way on the individuals available.

Feel free to make any relevant purchases based on above information. I'll be posting the boat boarding before noon.

I will grab 2 anti-toxin and 2 anti-plague

Phoenix listens. Heads off to the markets to buy some anti-jungle nastiness. She'll ask around at an alchemist shop for what they recommend to fit that bill.

She ends up getting some vermin repellent (20), and two vials of something she's not so sure what is for, but the guy said it'd be good to have (2 potions of anti-plague).

With that accomplished she'll head to the library - poking around a bit. Not wanting to look completely unhelpful. But really. She looks very out of place in a library.

Valore will also buy 20 vermin repellents, and a vial of anti-plague.

"perhaps someone should invest in a hunting guide? I believe Pathfinder Chronicle #1 had insight to hunting in the Mwangi Expanse?"

Max looks conflicted for a moment before picking up the book and bringing it over to Prizm. He delivers the book along with a glare. In a voice somewhat deeper than his natural speaking voice and with as much condescension as he can bring to bear he says.

"Here is your book, sir."

Is Valore thinking along the lines of a masterwork tool to track in natural environments? Max can probably pick that up. Assuming that's specific enough of for a masterwork tool of course.

I was referring to the actual 200gp chronicle from pathfinder society primer. I dont think i have the cash

Feel free to finish any interactions/purchases.

The docks of Absalom are busy as always as your group makes their way to the dock where you can find The Hunter's Cry. It is an older but well appointed ship, obviously designed for comfort, rather than cargo or battle.

As you approach the gankplank the thump thump of a cane is heard - looking up, an aging Garundi man smiles down at you. "Welcome! I've been expecting you. My son-in-law spoke well of all of you!"

The man has dark black hair and a matching thick moustache, though edges of gray are visible on the former. Though his face is showing the effects of age and exploration, he is still quite handsome and energetic.

"I am Baron Bomande Rudyahm, please, come aboard The Hunter's Cry! I'll make sure you get situated in your cabin first; we'll have plenty of time for stories and history during dinner, once we're on the open sea!"

He waits at the top of the plank to shake each of your hands as you come aboard - a deck hand waits just to the side to take you to a small but comfortable cabin for just your party, beds stacked three to a side.

Picture added to Information slide.

Valore will climb the plank, and not wanting to offend, take the profferred hand... and include a slight head bow. "An honor to meet you baron. Valore Edasseril, at your service. Thank you for your your hospitality sir." and follow his instructions.

Poncho stops his burro before the gangway and ascends to the deck. He removes his hat with one hand and extends the other in salutations.

"Mucho gusto, Baron Rudayhm! It is a pleasure to meet a man of action such as yourself and an even greater pleasure to be invited on this expedition."

I buy a waterskin on the way to the docks. I now have 1.5 gp. I'm assuming a porter can get my burro situated below decks.

Maximilian climbs the plank and shakes the mans hand.

It's an absolute pleasure to make your acquaintance, Baron."

Phoenix boards the ship, shaking the Baron's hand at the top, smiling warmly. "Pleasure to meet you sir! It's an honor to be here."

Max will also studiously ignore the help as we're led to our cabin.

After the slow start, where the ship was lead out of the perilous Absalom harbor, the sails were raised and your pace rose quickly. Once the boat is out on smooth and open water the smell of cooked meat begins to fill the cabins. It's not long after that you are called to dinner.

In a large, still well appointed, dining room at the center of the ship, the Baron and Count wait for you, seated at opposite sides of the table.

"Welcome, guests! I do hope this meal will be good enough for you. We'll all need the energy for our voyage into the jungle in the days to come!" the Baron welcomes you, standing and motioning to the other seats at the table. The table is loaded with good and fresh food from Absalom, including local game, fruits, and vegetables.

"So, as well travelled as all of you look, have any of you been to the jungles of Jalmeray before?" the Baron asks as he begins building his plate. He'll listen attentively as he samples some of the best food Absalom has to offer.

After listening to responses for a few minutes, the Count chimes in between bites. "Where have each of you been recently? Why types of beasts have you been fighting?"
The Count seems interested in your responses, but also has a tinge of nervousness to his voice.

Poncho sits towards the middle of the table, taking care to showcase his best table manners throughout the dinner.

He shakes his head at the Baron's question but responds to the Count's:
"I have recently traveled the Silken Way. There I battled with brigands, goblins, and harpies, braved a sandstorm, and defeated a treacherous sellsword."

"I've never been to the jungle before. Not unless you count Kaer Maga that is. Dreadful place. Run by common criminals!"

I haven't been anywhere else at all interesting but I've bested a creature which I'm to understand was reaching into the basement of the Blakros Museum from the dark tapestry!"

i will pickup the chronicle #1 before departure.

Valore will join the table in his finest clothes, freshly cleaned. He will take a seat near the baron.

After listening to his companions, and collecting a modest plate of delectables, "While I have not been there, Jalmeray sounds to be a fascinating place. Have you been there often Baron Rudyahm? I have read of some magnificent animals who roam there."

Prizm sneaks over next to Maximilian's plate and waits for Bert's distraction. Meanwhile Bert peck's Max's foot drawing his attention.

The gnome quickly grabs a few berries off the swashbucklers plate and scurries back to his place at the table.

"Pass the salad please! No meat, I feel bad for the animals.. and I very well could know a few of them... sadly..."

While chewing on a raspberry, Prizm looks up and humms loudly. "Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm"

Kn: Local on Jalmeray: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (5) + 12 = 17
Kn: Nature on Jalmeray: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

With a look of recognition he quips, "I know a few things about this region!"

Loudly chewing and trying to talk with his mouth overly full he looks over at the rest of the group and smiles (leaves in his tiny little fey teeth).

"Oh and I have been into the deep cold, we melted ice with clay!"

Phoenix sits politely eating the food, looking around occasionally, trying to be discrete in watching and attempting to mimic other individuals etiquette at what would be considered to her to be a very exquisite and formal meal.

When it comes her turn to speak.
"Never been to a jungle, no." She'll shake her head. "I've bested some pretty mean desert creatures, though. That and the usual. You know. Aspis agents. Troglodytes. The like. Looking forward to this." She smiles.

The Baron takes in each of your answers in turn, laughing at Valore when he mentions the magnificent animals.

"Magnificent and vicious, yes! Fascinating sites throughout. I've spent quite a few summer weeks hunting through the brush and mountains. The locals are helpful and don't mind visitors, since a lot of the hunting helps to keep them safe. Just don't mess with their superstitions! 'Sacred' this and 'holy' that. Bah!" he says disgustedly. "The monkeys especially are terrible..."

The Count seems a bit more involved, 'hmm'ing and 'oh'ing throughout your stories.
"It seems like you are all quite experienced and well travelled. I hope one day to see the sights that you have.. maybe. I'm certainly not a fan of the cold," he laughs a bit at himself, smiling at Prizm. "The training I've had would certainly be put to good use in the tundra though. I hope it comes in handy on this expedition as well."

With the last, he glances across the table to his father-in-law for only a moment.

Valore will continue to strike up a repore with the baron - smiling with him and laughing at his humor even if Valore doesn't get the joke....

"monkeys you say? The locals believe monkeys to be sacred?"

at another point in the conversation:
"you've stalked through the brush often. Please tell me: what is the most challenging creature you tracked?"

diplomacy to influence/ingratiate: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17

Poncho chimes in

"Your son in law informed us of your encounter with a fearsome tiger, Señor Baron--would you consider this beast the most dangerous game you've ever hunted?"

diplomacy assist: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22

Max will add

"The tiger we're setting out to hunt must have been quite a specimen to best a man of your quality."

Diplomacy assist: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

You must ask the right questions... and there!

Baron Rudyahm’s face grows stern as he recalls bygone events.

“There were four of us on that trip, plus a half dozen porters or so. It was our seventh day in the bush. We’d had a bad day hunting on the trail, so we split off to the west to follow a little stream deeper into the jungle. The tiger came for us that night, despite our campfires. He must have been young to be so bold. I never saw most of the carnage. All I could hear were screams, gunshots, and men begging for help in the darkness." The Baron pauses for a moment, taking a quick drink of wine.

“With the gun smoke and the darkness, I could barely see the end of my musket. Something took a right nasty bite out of my leg, but I wheeled and unloaded my gun in its direction. I must have only clipped it, yet that was enough to startle the beast. The only glimpse I caught was its striped haunch and tail bleeding as it ran off into the darkness. I managed to limp my way out of the jungle on my one good leg, and that was the end of it. Ah, but we’re going to catch that stripey bastard this time, eh? We’ll give him what for this time around.”

Indeed we will. The beast will learn it's proper place. The floor of a well appointed trophy room just in front of the fireplace.

Knowing that his fey affinity with nature, animals, and his friendships in the past with the creatures of the wood. Prizm thinks its best if he just purses his lips and keep quiet.

Looking at Maximilian post his comment around a trophy, the gnome makes a mental note for a prank down the line.

Glancing over at the baron, Prizm manages a smile and a tiny little thumbs up.

Keith I did some Knowledge nature and Local above, did that yield anything on the type of tiger this is, and or the general location?

*sigh*

Bert wanders over near Poncho, and deftly sneaks under the giant .. well poncho startling .... PONCHO!

"Bert?"

General information from research was above ( here ). Your knowledge would coincide with what was learned in the library.

There will be another chance to gather information from the locals once you've arrived.

Poncho lets out a hearty laugh at Maximillian's joke, too distracted to notice Bert's presence.

"Señor Baron, all this talk of screams and carnage has...how you say...killed the mood? When we encounter this beast, the only sounds to be heard will be our cries of victory mixed with my beautiful Latin rhythms. May I have the honor of entertaining you with a sample of my compositions?"