GM OfAnything's Port Godless (Inactive)

Game Master terraleon

Incense hangs heavy in the air in a meeting chamber of Manaket’s Swordmeet Lodge, where Venture-Captain Obo stands before a low table. “I won’t mince words,” he declares as he strokes his graying beard. “This mission is of vital importance to the Pathfinders’ success in the Worldwound. The Society has many powerful spellcasters, yet few can compare to the Riftwardens in feats of demon-banishing. That Abyssal scar spawns many demons, and the aid of capable abjurers would be a great boon in our march to Jormurdun, the newly discovered Sky Citadel . When our leaders requested the Riftwardens’ aid, we were denied; too many of their wizards are already committed to Mendev’s cause.”

Obo’s face betrays his chagrin, and he continues. “However, in saying no, they tantalized us with a means of securing their trust and alliance. Several Riftwardens led by Jahani Jodinaj and stationed in Azir were recently preparing for a dangerous task, but they recently stopped responding to magical missives. Were we Pathfinders to investigate these Riftwardens’ disappearance, we would have performed a great service to be repaid in kind. Ah,” he notes with some pleasure as two servant carry platters of drinks and fruit into the room, “We have refreshments. May you find them to your pleasure.”

As he begins peeling an orange, he frowns and adds, “We have one potential ally in this investigation, though I doubt he will leap at the chance to help. A contact of mine recently spotted the former Pathfinder Eando Kline in the sook of Azir. He has donned the guise of a copper merchant and likely prefers a degree of anonymity, but he is also a very well-connected man; if anyone knows what ills have befallen the Riftwardens, it is he. Should he not wish to speak, tell him, ‘Sasha Antif-Arah sends her regards—healthy and alive from Andoran.’

“Beyond that, be careful, Pathfinders. The sands of Rahadoum are unforgiving, and the Pure Legion is even less so.”

-----

know hist or religion-same bonus: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Hakime nods a greeting to the Venture-Captain and her fellow Pathfinders. "We are slated it seems to enter the nation of Rahadoum where worship of any god is against the law."

She tucks her symbol of Erastil under her tunic, and takes some leather strapping and wraps it tightly around her bow just above and below the grip, hiding the Erastil symbols inlaid there. "I'm not fond of hiding my allegiance to Erastil, but for the sake our mission success, I will do what I have to. The laws of the land must be respected."

She reaches out and takes a ripe peach from the plate and begin to take bites from it... licking the juice from her lips and fingers as she eats. "Mmmm, good.. thank you, Master Obo. Is there anything else you can tell us about our contact or our destination that might be of help to us?"

"Iso thinks law is stupid. Law may as well insist that tides not wash on shores. Iso carries beauty of Desna within him! There is no way for Iso to hide such a gift!"

Anyone viewing the tall, scraggy bearded barbarian, especially from downwind, might be inclined to disagree. However the size of his arms and his axe might make then disinclined to do so obviously.

"Ah, Iso, my friend, once you have witnessed the glorious power of Ra--mayhislightshineonyouforever--you will understand the importance of law and order," Turathal offers with a deep bow of respect. "Sweet Desna is a pure treasure to gaze upon, but where would the world be without the rule of Law?"

The meticulously groomed Aasimar has not one hair out of place. His spotless robes are simple and elegant, bearing no ornamentation to distract from the glorious golden solar disk holy symbol on his neck. The astute observer will easily notice the same symbol is tattooed on his left palm. And even as the dust of the road gathers on his clothes, some small magicks immediately begin to whisk it away.

"I am Turathal Amonra, a sorcerer of some skill, and, most importantly, an Ecclesitheurge of Ra, mayhislightshinuponyouforever. I look forward to putting my magic and the great and glorious power of Ra to good use in all of our endeavors."

Kn-Rel: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (17) + 9 = 26

I'll get his info input into the profile soon.

Turathal then begins to expound in great detail all he knows about Rahadoum, Azir and the Pure Legion.

Feel free to read all the knowledge spoilers

Knowledge (History: 1d20 + 13 + 1d6 ⇒ (19) + 13 + (2) = 34

Hakaam, delicately pulling his face-scarf aside to quickly stuff a handful of dates into his mouth, nods at Turathal's words as his multiple sets of razors sharp teeth shred the delicate sweet date flesh and begin crunching through the pits. "Most... *gulp* Eloquently said Agent Amonra. With that said, I would encourage that we do not attract the gaze of the Pure Legion. Otherwise perhaps a prayer to Desna might be in order, for the goddess will need to be grinning like a simpleton to get us out of the trouble we will be in."

Iso roars with laughter. Probably a little too loud, unless you have been up the entire night drinking with dwarves or listening to bards playing with magical amplification.

"Iso has heard of this law. Iso is so far very unimpressed with it. Law is means for those with power to keep power. Iso's law is his strong arms and big axe." He grins even wider and adds a very unsubtle " Mayitsbladebeforeversharp."

"Also, while the opportunity may not arise while traveling in such an unenlightened land as Rahadoum, do any of you prefer not to receive a profane Blessing? I can offer the Blessings of the Faithful, but it does come from Ra's darker side..."

grant +2 profane to attacks, saves, skills, ability checks OR armor class for 1 round. 1 target, 1 round. Have used it a lot on skill checks in the past, but probably won't come up much in Rahadoum. No worries if anyone is a Conscientious Objector. That's why I ask...

Hakaam waves away the cleric's concern. "Profane, Blessed. It is of little matter to me" he states, before turning to study Iso. "Agent... Soturi, yes? While I can humbly state that I am uniquely capable of appreciating the words your speak, I must insist that you perhaps consider trying to deceive our hosts into believing you are weak, as the wholesale slaughter of the entire Pure Legion of Rahadoum is a ... How should I say it... Dubious proposition at best. As a healer from Varisia I know says "You go ahead and do that, I'll be watching over here. Go ahead you've got this", whatever those words mean. It must be a Varisian saying"

"Iso have help from Orc before. Iso very magnanimous about who he accepts help from " smiles the barbarian.

"Not that Iso needs help. But Iso likes to share glory of battle, lest Iso's awesome presence overcome all around him.."

Obo pops sections of orange into his mouth one by one, thoughtfully considering the assembled group. His eyebrow raises slightly at the mention of several deities.

"I don't think Erastil would approve of me receiving a profane blessing, so please, don't include me."

"Only LAW can stem the tides of Chaos! Only LAW can deliver us from destruction at the hands of those who would tear down Creation! It is Law, and Law alone, that encloses the Worldwound and prevents it from swallowing Golarion. Heed my words, Iso, your strong arms are not enough!"

The hulking hunchback removed his heavy helm, revealing a scarred and mis-shapen face.

"I am Doctor Drokk, Hellknight-Scientist. This is my assistant, Nigel." His mailed hand gestured towards a tiny, grey, lumpen creature sat upon his hunch, next to a leather pack. "I grew him. He is very protective of me."

knowledge, local: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (5) + 7 = 12

"I have not travelled in Rahadoum before, but if what you say is correct Turathal then the Pure Legion are keepers of Law. Allies, not enemies. The Pure Legion might assist us, if we abide by their laws.

A Hellknight bows before no god. But I do not deny their power, nor their aid if they will give it."

"Ha" laughs Iso, somewhat mistaking Drokk's sermon for a joke.

"Iso has already explained that Laws about tides are foolish! But Iso has already said that he is magnanimous in accepting help. Even from foolish men like Pure Legion."

"Iso, no one here is going to tell you what to believe, but we are going into a situation where we must maintain a delicate balance between our personal beliefs and diplomatic neutrality... What would be magnanimous is giving the benefit of the doubt to our host nation and making a show of following their laws while in their country."

Iso scratches for a bit, wrestling with conflicting thoughts on the matter.

"Iso is very magnanimous." he eventually concludes.

"Even if laws are stupid. Iso would not tell host he was stupid. Iso did that once. Iso's host was larger and Iso ended up with bruises that lasted for many days." he rubs an imaginary wound as he recalls the beating. "It was a good fight though!"

k(religion): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28

Bones knows just about everything there is to know about Rahadoum like many of his co-adventurers. Rahadoum is a unwelcome place for one of faith to travel, but We should manage. As for gods all souls eventually make there way to Pharasma, one way or another. Even soul from Rahadoum make it to the land of bones with out the aid of proselytizing."

Turning to Amonra "Pharasma and Ra have a working relationship, even though Ra holds the idea of laws in high regard. She would not object to one of his followers helping one of hers and visa versa."

Bones nods to Hakime, "I will make a note not to use any infernal healing on you as well. I have healing methods that Erastil would not object to. Is there anyone else who would prefer not to be healed using infernal devil blood?"

Speaking to the group Bones, "Give the limitations of practicing divine magic, I will do my best to keep any of you from having an unscheduled meeting with Pharasma before you time."

"Ah, Master FireHammer, devils' blood is a most efficacious accelerant of tissue repair when properly applied. I have conducted numerous experiments with the substance. My most noteworthy success resulted in an induced mutation that enables me to rapidly heal my wounds by autonomic action! I feel certain that with further experimentation I shall be able to refine the mutation further.

Any may I point out, for the benefit of those of you whose proclivities may be frowned upon by Rahadoum's Pure Legion, that I might have a scientific solution available to you? I can, perhaps, produce an infusion that would allow you to store an item inside your own flesh. Your body, when treated by the infusion, will absorb any one item that you could carry in your hand. The infusion's effects last for at least a week, or until you choose to expel the item."

By the time we start I will almost certainly have absorbing touch available, if necessary.

Bones listens with interest to Drokk's offer as he describes the absorbing touch magic. The dwarf sighs , "Thank you for the offer, but the shield I was hoping to smuggle along on the mission has magical properties that I believe would prevent it from being absorbed by the magic infusion."

"A cascading interference problem perhaps? Regrettable. I shall have to work on a more advanced iteration of the infusion. It will be difficult, and will require extensive experimentation. The ordinary version of the infusion is already complex. Still, it would work suitably on a holy symbol I am certain."

Iso yawns.

"Iso is good at hiding axe in heads." he offers as his contribution to the conversation about stealth.

Hakaam sighs. "I may have a solution. Venture Captain Sharrowsmith devised an elegant solution to such things. A handy haversack that does not detect as magical. I happen to possess a copy, and would be happy to dissimulate any divine implements. Or axes, if they are sheathed. Preferably not in anyone's head."

Eyeing the good doctor with a bit of worry at his lawful exhortations, Hakaam continues. "Agent Drokk, I happen to dabble in alchemy. I was wondering if you wouldn't mind exchanging some notes, in the spirit of Cooperation."

"Ah, a fellow scientist then? Excellent! Of course, I shall be happy to exchange knowledge!"

Doctor Drokk's eyes light up at the prospect. He asks Nigel to "fetch the books". The tiny creature reaches into the haversack next to him and pulls out first a large, heavy tome; with some protest Nigel hands this down to Drokk, who places it reverently on a table. Next, Nigel withdraws from the bag a slim book, much more ornately decorated than the first. Again, Drokk reverently places it on the table next to the first tome.

"This larger book is my own work, collected over years of study. I began with what scraps I could salvage from my parents' ruinous failure. The smaller volume is a copy of the famous Confluence of Five Elements. Do you read Tien? I can translate for you if you wish. In any event you should be able to follow the formulae without it. A good portion of the Confluence is given over to a preparation ritual that allows for an alchemical bomb to explode with a blinding light."

Drokk excitedly awaits Hakaam's contribution.

"My own, humble discoveries are dwarfed by yours" offers Hakaam with a bow, as he sets down an altogether rather simpler book, annotated with a neat yet elegant handwriting. The notes are in a mixture of Infernal and some other horrendous language. "I tend to use Abyssal when it lends itself towards describing the necessary steps" he offers by way of excuse. "Please, feel free to ask if you cannot understand the meaning."

"I have not taken the time to learn Tien. It seemed like everyone was excited with learning the tongue, I thought my efforts would be best used elsewhere. Thus my area of expertise lies in the ancient languages of the Inner Sea region, with a marked weakness in Jiskan which I am rectifying. The irregular tenses..." He shudders. "A development of the otherwise rigid grammatical structure of the empire, developing during the period of its decline. But enough about Jiska, I would be humbled if you would translate your Tien markings for my benefit."

"Ah, I see 'dabbler' is an accurate assessment. But do not do yourself down, my friend. You have one or two formulae I have not encountered elsewhere."

Drokk enthusiastically makes new notes in his books.

"I have spent many months - no, it must be years now - in Tian Xia. Mainly with the Pathfinder Society, but not exclusively. It was therefore only natural to learn the Dragon Empires' common language. It is the Tien tongue that is used in the Confluence of Five Elements. I will show you the essentials, but it is a complex language. A minute or two and I shall have an alchemical enhancement to address this....

Drokk begins mixing an infusion.

"I am quite familiar with the Infernal tongue. It is used everyday in the Hellknight orders, of course. But I find the Abyssal quite incomprehensible. There is simply no structure. It must take a feat of memory indeed to retain anything. I would hesitate to describe it as a language even. Ah, meaning no offense. Here, it is ready. Drink."

Drokk offers an infusion of Comprehend Languages to Hakaam, and then replicates the infusion courtesy of a boro bead and consumes it. The two strange scientists then begin their exchange of secrets in earnest...

Iso watches the two brewers with interest. "Iso mixes drink too!" he offers, trying to share in their enthusiasm for the subject.

"Ale and more ale!" he adds proudly.

Hakaam pauses momentarily in his writing, replying deadpan: "Indeed Agent Soturi. A most interesting concoction."

Iso nods. "Obviously the .." he pauses, and speaks specifically precisely as if not used to the word. "amalgamation of ales is more challenging when they are different ales."

He looks exceedingly proud of his use of the word "amalgamation".

"Iso is good at amalgamations!"

Turathal will provide Iso with Blessings of the Faithful for a +2 profane bonus on "amalgamating ales."
"Be warned, my friend Iso. The hangover for that concoction might have a bit of an edge."

"Ah, there is a remedy for that, certainly. It is known, appropriately, as 'alchemists' kindness.' I regret I do not have any, but I know the method of production. I'm afraid I view it as a frivolity. I make weapons."

Is that on saves vs poison? :-)

ISO: Yes, but only for 1 round...

Venture-Captain Obo opens his eyes after listening to the party's back-and-forth. "You lot seem capable enough. But, please try to keep your wits about you in Azir."

She reaches out and takes a ripe peach from the plate and begin to take bites from it... licking the juice from her lips and fingers as she eats. "Mmmm, good.. thank you, Master Obo. Is there anything else you can tell us about our contact or our destination that might be of help to us?"

Obo nods toward Hakime, "Lady Jodinaj’s household knows of your impending arrival, and I have provided you with her address and supplies for the voyage." He taps his chest to indicate her holy symbol below her tunic. "The Legion does not take kindly to people who smuggle contraband into the country. Don't break the Laws of Man, or don't be caught at the very least."

With that he rises, and indicates that you may leave and prepare for your journey.

Bones purchases a Pathfinder Pouch to store his contraband, as does Turathal. Doctor Drokk and Hakaam exchange formulae on the ship. Did I miss any preparations?

------------

The heat of the midday sun accentuates the strange juxtaposition of salty sea air and dry, desert wind, just as the Rahadoumi caravans mingle with sailors from a dozen lands to make the markets of Azir a bustling, cosmopolitan hub of western Garund. The city’s edifices ranges from old constructions rejuvenated with elegant murals and exotic carvings to much newer buildings built with irregular angles and acute corners that combine to create an elegant mosaic of art and architecture. A vibrant soundscape overlays this visual effect, combining the sound of men haggling over baskets of dates, camels bleating in protest to their handlers’ commands, and the chorus of seagulls that soar overhead in search of an easy meal. As you prepare to disembark, you see several port officials and a pair of Pure Legionaires ready to board.

One of the two calls up to the ship, "Prepare for customs! Be ready to declare any texts, icons, or other religious objects in your possession!"

other preparations: Hakime will purchase a Pathfinder's pouch as well... before arriving, she'll put her holy symbol into the pouch, wrapped in cloth and leather as well, just so it is not obvious if the pouch is opened..

In preparation, Iso spends time acquainting himself with the popular drinks of the country.

Iso tosses his full mane of hair, and lets the bells in his beard tinkle in the wind.

"Iso is living embodiment of Beauty. Iso wonders if he should declare himself?"

Certainly the wildlife in his beard would regard the lanky barbarian as the core of their existence. Whether that is a beautiful cores... well, it is probably more so on the upwind side than the downwind.

"If that is your desire, I suppose you should" opines Hakaam as he readies to field the questions from the Pure Legionnaires.

Bones double checks that his divine items are in the Pathfinder pouch and that the secrete pocket is sealed. He then puts a few mundane items into the normal pocket of the pouch, ready for customs.

Drokk will go ahead and add Absorbing Touch to his formula book before journeying to Rahadoum, can't hurt to have it available. Cost is 135gp. Hakaam may wish to add it by copying from Drokk (cost 90gp).

Drokk greets the Pure Legion. "Ah, good sirs. I am Hellknight-Scientist Doctor Drokk. I am a man of science. You are most welcome to peruse my texts; you will find them filled with scientific formulae. I would be pleased to elaborate upon their meanings if you wish."

Following Bones lead, Turathal stashes holy symbol inside the special pouch, then fills the regular part with his walking around money. Making certain his gloves are on, he puts on his most winning smile.

"I'm assuming these flasks of Holy Water are allowed to be openly carried. Such defensive weapons are useful against those most heretical of creatures, the undead."

If not, Turathal will leave them behind.

The Legionaires wave you off your ship and begin searching your persons and belongings.

At Turathal's question, "No, sir. Your god-water is not welcome here."

While unable to access the secret compartments of your Pathfinder pouches, they do find the symbol of Erastil on Hakime's weapon. "Openly displaying this symbol is a criminal act, ma'am. Keep this covered."

With that warning, you are free to enter the city and begin your investigations. You follow Venture-Captain Obo's directions to the House of Lady Jodinaj- an attractive home surrounded by a low wall.

A middle-aged woman in uniform answers the door with a stern, "Hello? What is your business?"

know.local: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

"Um, Madam, we are here to see your mistress, Lady Jodinaj. We are expected. Kindly admit us."

The woman's eyes narrow suspiciously. "Lady Jodinaj is not here, and is not expected back for some time. Take your leave."

Hakime obligingly wraps strips of cloth around the symbol on her bow and then secures the cloth with a tie of leather. "I will be cautious that this does not see the light of day again while here... thank you for your observation and guidance."

Later, at House Jodinaj: "Actually, we are here to investigate her disappearance... will you speak with us, tell us what you know of her recent departure and absence?"

The woman stops short of closing the door in your faces. A curious look plays about her eyes, but she still seems suspicious. "Who are you? Undercover Legionnaires? Show me your badges."

"We are not Legonnaires, undercover or otherwise. We are humble agents of another organization... I was told we were expected."

"Eeeee, hik hik huk, eee, glubgubber!"

Nigel slaps the back of Drokk's great helm.

Active buffs: Heightened Awareness

"Uh, yes Nigel you are probably right. Too much 'amalgamated ale.'"

It's hard to tell between the helm, scar tissue and tattoos, but Drokk hangs his head and looks sheepish.

"My colleague speaks true, Madam."

Doh!

Feeling the need of alchemical assistance, Drokk consumes an extract of Heightened Awareness.

Iso shakes his head. "Never too much Amalgamated ale!" he grins.

Peering over the others he does his best to nod politely to the woman.

"Iso and companions are here to seek out your mistress. Iso is good at helping ladies in distress."

"Mother of Iso Soturi always noted the number of distressed ladies in his vicinity. Iso is a distress lodestone!"

And maybe Iso shares too much

He does his best to be helpful.

diplomacy(aid): 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (1) - 2 = -1

"I am Turathal, and my stalwart companions and I are here on behalf on behalf of the Pathfinder Society. We are aware that Lady Jodinaj and her Riftwarden associates may have gone missing, and we are hoping to locate them, providing rescue and aid if necessary. Any information you might have on their whereabouts would be greatly appreciated. And of course, we would let the Lady know about just how important you were in aiding our efforts to locate her."

Take ten on Diplomacy for a 30...plus any aid my compatriots might supply?

Even as Turathal is speaking, he keeps a cautious eye on the woman, noting her reactions.
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25

The growing look of confused annoyance breaks into relief. "You are the Pathfinders? Come in, come in." she ushers you through the door and into a nearby parlor. "I wasn't sure when you would arrive."

She settles herself on a small couch without relaxing, "My name is Akhina, I am Lady Jahani's majordomo. No one else in this house is aware of the Lady's... affiliation." She smooths her skirts and continues, "Approximately 2 weeks ago, my mistress began withdrawing from public events disappearing for longer and longer times, and acting very secretively. She went so far as to instruct me to be careful about whom I admitted through the gate." she pauses as though a thought had just occurred to her, "In fact, the only guest she entertained in that time was a Taldan copper merchant- Maroc, I believe his name was." she shakes her head to clear her thoughts, "A week ago my Lady disappeared and has not returned. I am worried for her."