GM Ladile's TL;DR: A Pathfinder Society Campaign

Game Master Lady Ladile

Current Scenario: #3-16 The Midnight Mauler

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Liberty's Edge

Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

When all is said and done, it was quite easy. So i guess we haven't finished yet, no?

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

"I was wondering the same thing," Sylvak adds with a nod, "This was an awfully long trip just to poke around a dusty old manor..."

Liberty's Edge

Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

Even if we poked the bear too.

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

Maria looks at her allies, "I don't know if Mr. Geldhaar would agree with it being easy as he almost got an early visit to his afterlife. Plus, poking around a historical site and recovering ancient relics is quite a great experience!"

She turns to their host, "do you mind if I assist you in looking through what we recovered? There were some interesting documents that I was unable to read."

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

"Damm near took my arm clean off," Sylvak confesses. "I wouldn't say it was easy, but it was kind of a small job to come all this way for... maybe you had something else in mind? Like following up on whatever you learn from all those papers you had us look for?"


Season of Ghosts

"Well, that entirely depends on what's written in these papers," Mai Chun remarks as she hurriedly clears space off of an enormous table, moving stacks of books to the floor to make room for the stacks of books in your packs. "But, I'm happy to see you so eager to help an old woman," she grins. "Let's see what we have here and I'll tell you if there's more to be done!"

She beckons for Maria and anyone else of a mind to help her sort through the books and papers to join her at the table and then waves towards the cushions sitting around her classroom. "It sounds like you've had quite the day today - please, have a seat and rest if you like. Oh! And help yourselves to the kitchen if you're hungry, just be sure to leave enough for everyone else!"

While the rest of you settle in and take it easy, Mai Chun begins with the easiest and most logical item - the letters you'd uncovered. "Hmm...written to General Zhen? Most likely the spirit inhabiting that poor bear. But I wonder what would have been so important for him to linger on past death for?"

As she begins reading through the letters, Mai Chun's eyes slowly grow wide with realization. "The Summer...?" she speaks aloud and then suddenly dashes for the map and unfurls it across the table and begins tracing the various places marked with one finger.

"This...this is! Hah! Ahahaha, you've done it! How wonderful!" Mai Chun laughs with glee. "These letters and this map - I'm certain that they hold the key to discovering the location of the Summer Palace, which has been lost since the fall of Imperial Lung Wa," she explains. "The treasures likely contained within are unknown...but surely significant! And what you've uncovered is a good start on finding the Palace's location!"

She taps her fingernail on the map and muses aloud:

"The moon, with joy enough to tear the heavens,
Sinks to the horizon, and suddenly,
The Spring has grown old."

Then, Mai Chun looks up at the rest of you. She grins.

"Who wants to make history?"

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

Sylvak nods at Mai’s initial offer and heads to the kitchen, assuming that the dwarf will as well. He looks through what’s available and then, with a tinge of disappointment, settles on a big bowl full of rice covered with some kind of meat in some kind of sauce. Unable to find a fork, he begins eating with a spoon.

He emerges with a smile at the offer of making history and answers, ”Now that sounds worth the trip!”

Liberty's Edge

1 person marked this as a favorite.
Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

Hepsubia's hand darts in the air, when Mai Chun asks who wants to make history

Me! Me! Me! Oh please pick me!


Season of Ghosts

"I had a feeling you'd be up for it...even if some of you are too enraptured with the idea to even speak at this moment," Mai Chun smiles widely, glancing at Maria.

"Okay! It will take some time to finish poring through everything you've brought me but with you help it shouldn't take too terribly long, maybe a day or two at most," she continues, clapping her hands together excitedly. "You're welcome to stay here - there's enough room - if you don't already have lodging in town. Once I have enough information together to pinpoint more leads then that is where you'll come in, my lilies...and thistle!"

With that, Mai Chun hauls one of the stacks of books you returned with up onto the table and passes them out to anyone wishing to help. "Now...let's get started..."
______________

End Part One: Fragments


Season of Ghosts

Begin: Intermission
______________

After a few days of working with Mai Chun as best as you can to sort through the rest of the books and papers you recovered from General Zhen's old estate, you wake up one morning to find your sprightly hostess gone. However, Mai Chun is nothing if not a considerate woman and you find that she's left a sizeable breakfast for you consisting of steamed rice, miso soup, grilled fish, and pickled plums.

Also on the table is a note that reads:

Lilies,

Apologies for leaving you without a farewell this morning but urgent business in Mukinami has called me away. I have finally finished putting together our next three leads on the location of the Summer Palace and you can find the details of each on the pages that follow.

(At first I wasn't sure which lead I wanted you to follow first, which is why I wrote separate notes for each.)

Please investigate each of these leads in any order that you wish and then return here to Ashima when you are done. Until we meet again, take care and break a leg, as I believe the saying goes.

Mai Chun

Underneath this first letter you also find three additional scraps of paper:

Note #1

Note #2

Note #3

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

After reading the notes, Zithembe says, "I cannot say that there is any significance to the order of tasks. The most expedient route is from here to Po Li to Quain to Linshen, but we could just as easily travel to Linshen and work our way back."

Liberty's Edge

Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

I thinks its better to go straight to Linshen, then come back. I even might be useful in that mission

Grand Lodge

LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

Rumble glances at each of the notes for entirely too short of a time to have read them before passing them along to the next Pathfinder. "Tha longes' trip furst sounh's like tha bes' one ta me!" Rumble adds in agreement to Hepsubia and Zithembe's second idea.

Meanwhile, he continues shoveling rice and fish down his gullet, clearly enjoying the local cuisine. "This tha 'culture' people travel fur?" I could get used to short trips, food, and all this history stuff!

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

Maria's eyes go wide with the chance to delve more into history and discover the facts of things, this seems like an awesome opportunity! Why we could unearth something amazing!

The tips of her ears blush a bit into the crimson spectrum as she realizes their host is talking about her um... what was that term the halflings used? fangirling? A bit embarrassed she says nothing.

To make up for her gaff, she delves right back into the workload, helping to organize everything chronologically and then trying to be the best gopher possible for Mai Chun. The couple days of research fly by, the only things she remembers is learning a ton about the history of this region and how delicious that one pork dish was.

_____________________________________________________________

Maria carefully reads through the options in the letters and agrees with her allies, "excellent thoughts. Getting a map of our destination and returning an artifact to its rightful owners are both excellent goals."

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

"We should provision and rest, then," Zithembe says. "It will be a long trip."

By provision, I mean equipment purchases, since these are quests without 'real' travel time between them.


Season of Ghosts

Zithembe is right; I'll break verisimilitude a little to note that you won't have any issues traveling about between 'quest' locations so feel free to make any purchases if you want to make them and then we'll dive right in to 'Inkstains'.

Grand Lodge

LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

Rumble spends however much time it takes his companions to prepare by working in any nearby blacksmith shops, trying to pick up foreign techniques to augment his own.
________
I'm ready to go!

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

While waiting to leave, Sylvak accompanies anyone he can on whatever shopping trips he can, in the vain hope that something exciting might happen...

Did she pay us anything for the first part of the mission? If not then I don't really have any gold to spend (although, honestly, I'm not sure I would really buy much of anything even if she did). Either way, I'm good with leaving.


Season of Ghosts

Technically not yet; this scenario is set up a little differently in that there are 5 mini-quests and people can do all of them for full credit or only some of them for partial credit. Since we're going to playing through all 5 you'll receive chronicles at the end as normal.

After making what few plans you might need to make (and any additional purchases) you set off for Lingshen, resolving to work your way back to Ashima as you see to each of Mai Chun's tasks...

End: Intermission
______________

Part Two: Inkstains

The journey to Xiwu passes without incident and before you know you, you find yourselves standing before the School of Affinities. The school stands on the southern side of Xiwu, overlooking the Golden River. The school is a compound of several freestanding buildings surrounded by a stone wall. A small fountain bubbles in the space between buildings. The sliding walls of most buildings are open, allowing light to reach rows of students kneeling at their desks. Teachers walk between the desks, occasionally pausing to check work before continuing with their calligraphy lessons. Several guards, dressed in blue and black sashes, patrol the grounds.

Kn. Nobility (DC 10):

You realizes that these students are all from noble families, and that for each student, there is at least one armed bodyguard standing nearby - in addition to the guards employed by the school itself.

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

K: Nobility DC 10: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13

Maria cautions her allies, pointing out the extra students, "look there, those appear to be additional bodyguards. If I hit my guess, I'd say a majority of the students here are nobility. Their clothes fit the pattern of wealth and the additional security for each one of them matches the theory. I think we should tread lightly here. Anyone good at doing that? If not then maybe just walk in and offer to buy the map?"

Grand Lodge

LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

Rumble peaks in to classroom after classroom as they walk along the grounds. "Why're they all drawin' pictures? An' wha' ah they drawin'? Those sticks an' lines dinnae look like sumthin' aye 'ave seen bufore..."

"Aye say we offer tah buy tha map. Aye dunno 'ow wise ih'll be tah steal ih, even if we are workin' tuhwards tha rightful rulah an' all tha'," he admits to the group.
________
Rumble isn't going to oppose any theft, but he is going to try to convince y'all that we should try other options first.

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

”I do alright at sneaking,” Sylvak offers when he’s confident they’re out of earshot, ”but I’ve never used that to steal anything before.”

We can try to buy it if you guys want, or those of us with stealth could try to steal it while everyone else makes a distraction or something?

Liberty's Edge

Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

We should first try to find out what we seek, keep our eyes opened about where it is and how to get it out quickly and discreetly.

Grand Lodge

1 person marked this as a favorite.
LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

"Aye could jus' ask tah see it on mah own, then ask fur ih. Ah leas' then we know where ih is, eh?" Rumble offers the group. And if they are bright, they'll just let me buy it off of them! Stealing, even to put the right, lawful ruler in power, always left a funny feeling in my gut. Torag forgive me for what I'm about to be part of.

"An' whah do ya think, eh, Goldilocks?" he asks Zithembe with a playful elbow to the arm.
________
I know you're jade, but I couldn't resist with the gold picture and bald head :P Forgive me Blake's Tiger, for I hath sinned!

Dark Archive

2 people marked this as a favorite.
LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

"Hepsubia is correct," Zithembe says. "We do not know for certain that the map is here. Let us present ourselves and see what there is to learn."

Rumble is due for a good smiting.

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

With a course of action decided, Maria excitedly starts asking to speak with someone in charge.

"Hello there, we represent an interested party who heard you have all sorts of wonderful examples of art, writings, maps, etc... It would be great if we could talk to someone about taking a look." She assures them, "it would be worth your time, I assure you. We have traveled from very far away."


Season of Ghosts

"Oh really? It's good to know our school's reputation precedes us," responds the young man that Maria stops to speak to, who had actually been approaching the group himself. Dressed in yellow robes, he appears to be a student of Tian-Shu heritage in his late teens. Lurking not too far behind him is a big mountain of a man, also of Tian-Shu heritage and perhaps in his early thirties. Where the young man offers a relaxed, easygoing smile, the older one simply watches the proceedings with a rather dour expression.

"In that case, you've come to the right person - I'm Jianghong and this," he gestures over his shoulder, "is my bodyguard, Zheng. It just so happens that I'm on 'door duty' today and so it's my obligation to offer visitors a tour of the school."

Jianghong pauses and then winks at the group. "Apparently the teachers didn't see the humor in the adjustments I made to the class schedules."

"Chaos," Zheng remarks, not even cracking a smile.

"At any rate, here I am, your tour guide for the day," Jianghong continues with a shrug and a smile. "Shall we get started?"

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

"Please," the shabti says with a slight bow.

Grand Lodge

LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

Seeing Torag at least granting him an opportunity to do this right, Rumble nods his head and follows their guide.


Season of Ghosts

"Well then, let's get started! First, may I direct your attention to our marvelous fountain?" Jianghong begins, bowing with a flourish as he gestures towards the large fountain stands in the center of the school on a raised dais. The fountain consists of several pools that represent elaborate inkstones and is inscribed with several words written in Tien.

'Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence'...a true enough sentiment, I guess," Jianghong remarks as he translates for you. "But still, doesn't every land have its' stories of people who learn the most amazing things by pure luck or chance?"

Beckoning you to follow, Jianghong begins a circuitous route around the school grounds. Surrounding the central area where the fountain stands are classrooms, dormitories, and supply buildings, and surrounding the entire school is a stone wall with three gates. "During the day," he mentions, "the gates are open and the school guards patrol the grounds, but at night the gates are closed and the guards stand upon the walls, watching the surrounding city for trouble."

As you make your way around to the southwest, you pass a small but cozy-looking hut situated behind some carefully trimmed hedges. "That's Old Bao's home," your tour guide offers. "He's been the groundskeeper here since...well, probably since my grandfather was a student here! Personally I think he's so ill-tempered that even death itself doesn't want him. Really knows how to keep everything out here tidy and in order, though."

Here Jianghong pauses for a moment, regarding all of you with open curiosity. "You know, we usually don't get very many visitors from as far abroad as I think you come from. What brings you to Xiwu and to the school? If you don't mind me asking, that is - I'm like a cat, you know. I can't help but be curious!"

"Doom," Zheng replies; as strange as it is you think he's responding to Jianghong's statement about cats and curiosity rather than making any sort of proclamation. Apparently Jianghong is used to his bodyguard's odd manner of speaking as he doesn't pay it any mind.

Grand Lodge

1 person marked this as a favorite.
LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

"Yup," Sylvak responds cracking a smile, "Like the man says... we're here for the doom."

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6
GM Ladile wrote:

"Well then, let's get started! First, may I direct your attention to our marvelous fountain?" Jianghong begins, bowing with a flourish as he gestures towards the large fountain stands in the center of the school on a raised dais. The fountain consists of several pools that represent elaborate inkstones and is inscribed with several words written in Tien.

'Learning is not attained by chance, it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence'...a true enough sentiment, I guess," Jianghong remarks as he translates for you. "But still, doesn't every land have its' stories of people who learn the most amazing things by pure luck or chance?"

Quickly replying, ”ah but many of those cases were when those lucky ones were seeking different things and stumbled upon something unique. If one isn’t looking to learn, they might miss out on the lucky chance.

GM Ladile wrote:

Beckoning you to follow, Jianghong begins a circuitous route around the school grounds. Surrounding the central area where the fountain stands are classrooms, dormitories, and supply buildings, and surrounding the entire school is a stone wall with three gates. "During the day," he mentions, "the gates are open and the school guards patrol the grounds, but at night the gates are closed and the guards stand upon the walls, watching the surrounding city for trouble."

As you make your way around to the southwest, you pass a small but cozy-looking hut situated behind some carefully trimmed hedges. "That's Old Bao's home," your tour guide offers. "He's been the groundskeeper here since...well, probably since my grandfather was a student here! Personally I think he's so ill-tempered that even death itself doesn't want him. Really knows how to keep everything out here tidy and in order, though."

Here Jianghong pauses for a moment, regarding all of you with open curiosity. "You know, we usually don't get very many visitors from as far abroad as I think you come from. What brings you to Xiwu and to the school? If you don't mind me asking, that is - I'm like a cat, you know. I can't help but be curious!"

"Doom," Zheng replies; as strange as it is you think he's responding to...

Maria’s brow furrows a bit then her eyes light with an idea, ”doom? Are you sure he did not mean loom? And by that I mean like woven crafts, tapestries, etc... Are there any artifacts like that here? Our uh... client is interested in things like that.”

Liberty's Edge

Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

Or maybe broom? Whatever.. This groundkeeper knows how to work the bushes, it's true. I never saw so well trimmed and tidy bushes. I would be honored to congrulate him, if possible, before we go. So your grandfather might have studied here too, you're saying? Keeping in the family traditions maybe?

While talking, Hepsubia keeps her eyes and ears opened

Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14

Grand Lodge

LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

As the questions and comments turn to the party, Rumble remains silent, trusting his companions to shoulder this burden. What can I say without tarnishing Torag's reputation and keeping our goals aloft? I'm sure the others have this covered.

Instead, he turns to the bodyguard, trying to distract from his internal conflict. "Doom, eh? Aye 'aven't spoken with such ah reasonable sorta fellow in many yeahs! Curiousahty 'as some merih aye suhpose, buh doom is one o' tha drawbacks! Boy, ye can learn much from ya guard 'ere, I'd follah 'is advice!"

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

"We are traveling scholars and adventuring archaeologists working with a scholar in Shokuro who does not travel," Zithembe answers in clarification of the other's more oblique answers. "She believed that answers to her historical questions might be found here. Does the school have a library or museum?"

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

Sylvak looks at Rumble and cocks an eyebrow.

Is he warning them we're bringing doom? Or, that we're about to bring doom on ourselves? Neither of those seem real likely to make them helpful towards us...


Season of Ghosts

"Hmm...looking to buy then? Or maybe just borrow? I don't think the school would part with anything from its collections but I could be wrong - you'd probably have to ask one of the teachers about it," Jianghong remarks thoughtfully.

"But even if they don't, they might let you try and make a copy," he continues. "What art and such that we've got on display is in the Main Hall - we'll end our tour there so don't worry, you'll have enough time to look around a bit."

Ready to resume the tour, Jianghong beckons you to follow once more. "I'm sure Old Bao would love to hear your kind words about his work - the man soaks up compliments like a sponge - but I think he's away visiting his family right now. Am I right, Zheng?"

"Vacation," the bodyguard nods affirmatively. Though he keeps his eyes on his charge, Zheng slows his pace slightly and falls into step with Rumble. He doesn't offer any words but the silence seems slightly more companionable than before.
______________

The tour continues, with Jianghong leading you around past more buildings - mostly classrooms. However, he does pause by a large building at the northern end of the grounds. "This is the school's guesthouse, complete with three private rooms and a dining room. Normally it's reserved for guests of the school, like visiting merchants or prospective students."

He sighs.

"Mostly boring people, you know? But I think it's empty right now, if you need lodgings."

Continuing back across the open courtyard you finally come to a magnificent two-story building. Upon heading inside you can see that this building has a high hall on the ground floor, with the second floor accessed by a narrow stairway at the rear of the hall. The hall contains several treasures on display, including weapons and examples of exquisite calligraphy. One of these pieces is an ornate map on orange silk, which appears to be the map that you're looking for! Unlike many of the other art objects, the map is not secured behind glass...but the two guards standing at attention nearby are likely a strong deterrent to anyone thinking of thieving in broad daylight.

Appraise *or* Craft: Calligraphy *or* Perception (DC 12):

Hmm...no wonder the map isn't secured behind glass - it's not the real map but just a copy. The silk isn't particularly old and the brushwork is done in a more modern style than what you'd expect from the real thing.

"And here we are, the Main Hall! The teachers have their offices on the second floor but it's off-limits to visitors I'm afraid," your guide informs you. "Feel free to have a look around! Zheng and I will stay with you until you're ready to leave and if you'd like us to introduce you to any of the teachers or other staff, just give me the word!"

Current Map

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

Appraise *or* Craft: Calligraphy *or* Perception DC 12: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 = 20 all are same modifier, lol.

Maria looks intently at the items for a few minutes, paying equal attention to each of them. Just a few hrmms and uhuhs are all she shares until returning to the group. She looks slightly disappointed, ”well I’m not sure we haven’t wasted our trip, at least one item is obviously not an original. But, some of the other items might be legit, I’d need more time to confirm of course.”

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

”Why don’t we look into the lodgings,” Sylvak answers, ”that’d give us more time to, uh, identify pieces of interest for our employer?”

perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25
if she’s talking about the map she’s right there... I wonder where they’ve got the real one... upstairs, most likely...

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

"If the forgery is enough to fool these masters of art, then it may contain the information we are seeking," Zithembe says. "Can any of you record its likeness with any skill?"

Grand Lodge

LG Male Dwarf Warpriest of Torag 4.0 HP: 43/43 | AC: 20 T: 10 FF: 20 CMD: 16 +4 vs Giants, Bullrush/Trip | F+8 R+2 W+8 +3 vs poison, spells, SLA's | Init +0 | Perception +3
Tracked Resources:
FERVOR: 5/5; Spells: 1st 4/4 2nd 2/2; Blessing: 5/5; Sacred Weapon (+1) 4/4

Rumble proudly walks in step with the bodyguard, sending an equally companionable sense of silence his way. There's a battle buddy if I ever saw one! Next time I'm looking for a crack team for some Dwarven Trapfinding, I know who to call on.

Something about that map just ain't right... I'll ask the others about it when we get a moment. "Righ' well leh's geh to ouh lodgin's, eh? You 'ave given us a loh ta thin' abouh!" Rumble adds, before taking a cautious step towards the door.
________
Perception, DC 12: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (20) + 3 = 23 I SEE EEEEVVVERYTHIIING!

Liberty's Edge

Female Elf Rogue/Alchemist/Skald/Bloodrager/ Occultist (2/1/1/1/1) Init +4 (+5) HP 42 (48) AC 19 (20) T 14 (15)FF 15 (16)Fort+3 (+4)Ref +8 (+9)Will +3 Per +6 Spd 30 (40)

I could maybe copy it, but I would need something to copy it onto. anyone got some unused scroll, big-sized?

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

Maria points out, ”I doubt they aren’t aware it is a copy. It’s the only one not secured. They may have the original being studied, for maintenance or it was stolen and they are covering up the theft. Either way, I don’t think we can assume a copy of a copy will satisfy our client. I say we talk to someone and find out more before we figure out how to proceed.”


Season of Ghosts

"Hey, good eye," Jianghong remarks, as he and Zheng are still lingering fairly close by. "It's a good copy, but it’s not as good as the original. The teachers sometimes copy the art on display here as practice, as with this map. I presume the original would be in an office upstairs."

The young student begins looking around the hall and then focuses his attention on a middle-aged woman that seems to be sketching pictures of some of the weaponry on display. "Ah! There's Paio Laoshi*. If you want to stay in the guesthouse then you should go speak with her and see if she will give you permission to stay," Jianghong suggests.

*Teacher Paio
______________

To help make things easier there are a couple of different ways you can approach things - you can simply ask to copy the map and hope that will satisfy Mai Chun, you can see if the school will sell (or at least loan) you the map, or you can try to use more questionable methods to obtain the map.

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

Zithembe approaches the woman sketching and introduces himself with a polite bow. "Pardon my intrusion upon your work, Paio Laoshi. I am Zithembe. My colleagues and I are researching the ancient Summer Palace. Might we be able to obtain lodging here at the School of Affinities and be allowed to study and copy the original of this map?"

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

Maria steps up and adds, "and of course, we are willing to compensate the school for the access and time."

Diplomacy roll Spoiler-ed:
Diplomacy Aid DC 10: 1d20 ⇒ 11


Season of Ghosts

Paio Laoshi pauses, looking up from her sketching to regard Zithembe and Maria with mild curiosity.

"Greetings, guests and travelers. You've chosen quite the interesting topic to study it would seem," she replies. "Unfortunately, I'm afraid that we are not allowing visitor access to the original map at this time."

She raises an eyebrow. "Especially prudent if, as you seem to have reason to believe, that it has links to the Summer Palace - wouldn't you agree?"

"But you are still free to make sketches of the copy, if you like," Paio offers. "As for the guesthouse we normally only allow prospective students of the school or merchants to lodge there and you do not strike me as falling into either category, if I may be so bold."
______________

You'll need to make a Diplomacy or a Bluff check to convince her to let you stay; making a Craft: Calligraphy, Profession: Artist, or Kn. Nobility check in tandem might increase the chances of success ;)

Dark Archive

HP 39 (-0, +5 to stabilize) | Mods: Elix of Vision 1 hr, HA 10m | LN Elf Zen Empiricist 6 | AC/Tch/FF 19/14/15 (+1 vs. Traps) | CMD 18 (talisman?)| F/R/W +7/+13/+10 | Speed 30ft | Inspiration Pool 8/8, 2 Star Reroll 1/1, Perfect Strike: 3/3, Enduring Scholar 1/1 | Init +6 | Perc: 24+1d6 (+1 vs. traps), SM: 14+1d6

K: Nobility: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21 added to the above Diplomacy Aid Another success.

Grand Lodge

LN Human, Ranger 1 | HP 13/13 | AC 16 (t12, ff14) | CMD 16 | F +4, R +5, W +3* | perception (lowlight vision) +7, sense motive +2; initiative +3 | active effects: --

well, at least now they know who to suspect if the map comes up missing... we should have just snuck in at night, killed anyone we encountered, and taken the map...

Sylvak frowns as the plan to acquire the map nicely seems to flounder.

Dark Archive

LG Male Shabti Paladin 2/Medium 4 | HP 6/55 | AC 22 (26) T 12 (16) FF 20 (24) | F +13 R +8 W +14 (+2 vs. fear) | CMD/B 20/+8 | Init +2 | Per +5 (dark vision 60 ft) SM +4 | Speed 20 ft | Seance Invocation 5/11 | Influence 1| Smite 1/1 | LOH 5/5 | WC 5/5 | Shirt Re-Roll 0/1 | Active Conditions: endure elements (hot), spell drinker (available), Champion, Smite Evil (Michiko), Legacy of the Princess

"Thank you for the opportunity to study and sketch this replica. We do appreciate it," Zithembe says, gesturing for Hepsubia to begin. "I am not certain what significance the Summer Palace holds beyond its place in history and our patron's interest, but I will take you at your word. However, it is a long hike back to civilization and it will be late afternoon by the time we finish our studies. Could you not offer hospitality to fellow scholars so that we are not forced to brave the predators and mercurial spirits of the night? We will be out of your way by morning."

Diplomacy:

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24 + whatever aid succeeds.

He pauses and then adds, "And does not our study of your antiquities make us students by virtue of the study itself?"

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