In researching a recently recovered druidic lorestone, the Pathfinder Society learns of a powerful artifact with the power to turn men into bestial abominations. Amid claims of increased werewolf activity in the region, the PCs travel into the heart of the Verduran Forest to retrieve the valuable relic from a cabal of evil druids believed to currently hold it.
You are in Almas, the capital of Andoran, where you have been summoned by Venture-Captain Brackett. You are at the local Pathfinder Society lodge awaiting Brackett outside his office.
As each of you walk into the hallway you are surprised to see that many of the faces are familiar. Having just completed a mission for Venture-Captain Valsin last week, there must be some reason that many of the same Pathfinders have been called together again.
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White Eagle makes his way in, avoiding most furniture for the time being. He seems much more accustomed to the outdoors.
his attire has not changed much since last working with many of the others present.
Elangomat flies over to find a comfortable perch to keep an eye on things as the mission is briefed.
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Lukaas comes by, a bottle in his hand, singing a lively song
"As I came down through Almas City
At the hour of twelve at night
Who should I see but the Chellish lady
Washing her feet by candlelight
First she washed them, then she dried them
Over a fire of amber coal
In all my life I ne'er did see
A maid so sweet about the sole
Whack for the toora loora laddy
Whack for the toora loora lay
Whack for the toora loora laddy
Whack for the toora loora lay ...
Seeing White Eagle, Gaeldrung and Eldak, he stops his song and shake hands enthusiastically with them
How nice to meet you again! Another mission... Let's hope there won't be any magical chair this time! Or any hellish fiend involved, if possible. Nice to see you're back on your feet and not wobbly anymore, Eldak. That poison was quite virulent.
He salutes the Tiefling, with a little smile
Sorry, I haven't seen you. There was no offense meant to you when I spoke of "Hellish fiend".
Then... Then the young man strides towards the young woman, bows to her gallantly, with a wide, charming smile
Milady, it is a pleasure to meet you.Lukaas Penn is my name, may I be bold enough to ask yours?
The door to the office swings open and you are all summoned in. Once you are all inside, Venture-Captain Brackett sets a rounded granite stone on his desk with a loud THUMP. The stone is polished smooth and veined with shallow carvings reminiscent of constellations.
“This is a lorestone, from the depths of the Verduran Forest. It’s rumored to hold all of the secrets of the druids of that ancient wood. Just over two years ago, a group of Pathfinders recovered this stone for us. We’re not much closer to cracking its secrets than we were on the day those agents put it into our hands, but we have gleaned one interesting bit of knowledge."
“The lorestone tells of a lengthy ritual using an artifact called the Atavistic Splinter, a piece of charred bark touched by Gozreh himself. The ritual transforms humanoids into bestial creatures with preternatural resilience. We could use something with this kind of power for the upcoming Ruby Phoenix Tournament in Goka, so we need you to recover the Atavistic Splinter for us."
“We believe the artifact is near the gnome town of Wispil, deep in the Verduran Forest. A Pathfinder operative there—a gnome herbalist named Falbin—was investigating increased lycanthrope activity south of Wispil. Falbin discovered that a sinister cabal of druids in a compound called Briar Henge is using the Atavistic Splinter to perform the ritual, probably to drive out the local loggers, but he couldn’t recover the Atavistic Splinter from the druids by himself."
“Go to Wispil and contact Falbin there. He will provide you with directions to Briar Henge and recent intelligence regarding the situation around Wispil. Then use this information to infiltrate Briar Henge and acquire the Atavistic Splinter.”
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While quite knowledgeable about the nature and history of multiple bedrooms about Golarion, Lukaas is unable to pinpoint any specific additional information that he thinks may be useful here.
Despite being a shaman of Shoanti origin, White Eagle cannot recall anything additional of the Verduran Forest or the surrounding areas.
Venture-Captain Brackett shakes his head at Gaeldrung. "I do not think that is going to be necessary. From what I've been told it is sheet a piece of charred bark about two feet long and ten inches wide, and an inch thick.”
"VC Valsin told me you all had a gunslinger with you on your last mission, but she and one other member of your group, Zorro or something like that, were unavailable. So I requested this young lass and the magus to take their places."
Looking among the group he raises a brow and asks, "Any other questions?"
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Braillen waves briefly when Brackett acknowledges her. "Is there anything in particular we should be prepared for? I've never dealt with lycanthropes but have heard they can be quite nasty. And is there any connection to the ritual transformations?" She walks over to look a little closer at the lorestone.
Brackett addresses Briallen first. "The only other information I have is what Falbin has reported on. He mentioned that these animal-men are being created by this ritual which robs htem of their wits but imues them with physical power. Despite their bestial appearance, these anima-men aren't lycanthropes. Also, he said that the ritual takes several weeks but it will take you nearly two weeks to arrive at your destination in Wispil. You'd better hurry on your way because if these druids finish their ritual they make take the Atavistic Splinter away to some better hidden location and we may never find it again."
Turning to Baru Brackett nods. "I have some letters from the heads of your factions." He distributes the letters to each of you.
Flesh Morsel,
I’m in the mood for something unique and delicious. Whispers reveal to me that you are investigating Briar Henge, home of a cabal of worrisome druids. Briar Henge druids create a particular kind of goodberry, green and glossy like an insect carapace. Their unique version of the spell creates the strange color, which remains even after the spell on the berries expires. Bring all of these strange goodberries you find back to me. If the druids haven’t already prepared some then you must… encourage a druid to prepare at least a few for me. Give me a taste of something I like, and I will return the favor.
Paracountess Zarta Dralneen
Loyal Servant,
The Pathfinder Society holds an artifact of the Verduran druids, a round carved stone called a lorestone. This lorestone holds many primeval secrets. Although acquiring the lorestone for the treasure-vaults of the Ruby Prince would be ideal, you would likely be ejected from the Pathfinder Society if you try, and therefore would be of no further use to us there. Instead, convince your superiors to lend you this lorestone for a short time. Make as accurate a record of its ancient carvings as you can. Even if we do not have the lorestone itself, a record of its carvings may allow us to unlock the druidic secrets within.
May your efforts be favored,
Amenopheus, the Sapphire Sage
Empire’s Hand,
From time to time, the Verduran Forest druids overreach themselves and restrict logging under the Treaty of Wildwood to unacceptable levels. To encourage negotiations favorable to our aims, we must present proof that the druids of the Verduran Forest are not honoring the treaty in good faith. I believe the Briar Henge druids are engaged in some sort of ritual that is affecting the local woodsfolk. A druidic ritual that only impacts local woodsfolk and small communities does not concern us. However, proof that this ritual is intended to impact a large town—such as Wispil or Woodsedge—would be invaluable in our negotiations. You are our last hope for supplying this proof in time. While we need something more than your word—something tangible, like a map or journal—its authenticity would not be doubted.
Lady Gloriana Morilla
Humble Crusader,
Mercy is the pinnacle of virtue. Lycanthropes plague the lands around Wispil in the Verduran Forest. But few lycanthropes are irredeemably evil. Many, when cured of their bestial affliction, repent of their evil ways and lead productive lives. Should you encounter lycanthropes in your journey, do what you can to see that they are not slain, but rather are left alive to later receive our ministrations. We understand you cannot ultimately control the actions of your comrades, but you should take the higher path yourself, and encourage mercy in as many of your companions as you can. If the rumors we have heard are false, and it is some other type of creature stalking the forest around Wispil, let mercy guide you still: leave as many of these feral creatures alive as you can, for redemption is Sarenrae’s purest weapon.
In Service to Light,
Ollysta Zadrian
Loyal Pathfinder,
Your journey will take you to Wispil to meet with a semi-retired Pathfinder operative named Falbin. Falbin’s erstwhile comrades within the Pathfinder Society include several members suspected of selling our secrets. We do not know whether Falbin was involved in this enterprise. You must find out. Ask Falbin—privately, if you are able—whether his friends Aviniza and Gorbenil ever made it to Sothis. The gnome will know what you mean. When you surprise him with this question, his initial response will show truly whether he knows anything, so long as you are skilled at reading faces and interpreting body language. Pass along whatever Falbin’s response reveals.
In Service to the Society,
Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin
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Braillen shares a glance with Eldak, inclining her head slightly toward the lorestone. She turns to Brackett, "sir, I appreciate the opportunity you've afforded me to help secure the Atavistic Splinter. I wonder if you might extend me one small favor. I'd like some time, an hour or two at most, to further examine the lorestone. I don't know that I'd be able to offer any insight that your agents have not already provided, but I'd welcome the chance to try." She looks around the office, "is there a private room I might be able to use?"
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White eagle looks to the Half-Orc, I happen to also revere the aspects of nature, Elangomat, is the manifestation of the world around us to guide and aid me in my service to Mother earth
after a moment Still, lessons could be taught to those tree huggers if that is what is needed he adds with smile.
Brackett considers Briallen's request and then looks at her suspiciously, "You want to examine the lorestone in private, eh?"
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Briallen smiles at Brackett, "actually sir, I wanted a chance to take a closer look but know you are extremely busy and wanted to stay out of your way while doing so. That said, I'm new to this group and will defer to the others." Briallen looks to Lukaas, "friend, we might all benefit from a closer look at the lorestone."
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I would be happy to assist you, as a dabbler in things esoterical.As a Pathfinder, it is my duty. The good Venture Captain knows for a fact that we are supposed to cooperate right from the start, and to learn to fonction as a team, covering each other's weaknesses-and I do have numerous weaknesses I'd like you to cover, Mylady.*
This is a can't miss, perfect opportunity to do it, right before our field operations, don't you think, Venture Captain Brackett?
Brackett folds his arms as he listens to Briallen speak, obviously still not sold on her argument. When the half-orc speaks the VC rolls his eyes. He picks up the lorestone and is beginning to walk out with it when Lukaas Silvertongue catches him on one of three main concepts of Pathfinders.
Cooperation.
Sighing heavily he turns and hands the lorestone to Briallen. In a fatherly scolding voice he points at her and says, "You have an hour. After that you should be on your way. You may have missed the part where I said time was of the essence?"
With that he ushers you all out of his office.
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Briallen smiles, "thank you, sir. We'll be on our way soon." When Brackett leaves, she turns to the team, "I believe the markings might be of some use to us later." She transcribes the carvings and secures the copy in her bags, "thank you again for the help Lukaas. I am ready to return this to VC Brackett and leave if everyone else is."
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"Briallen it appears we have a mission," Eldak stops as he notices her placing a well documented drawing of the lorestone into her bag. "Well I knew I had drifted off, but didn't know I had been absent that long."
"For those I haven't met, I'm Eldak Moonshadow. Skilled in the arts of divination." The elf gives a curt bow to the lady and the tiefling in the room. "As for the rest of you, it is a pleasure to see you again. It sounds as though Lukaas is already attempting to dazzle the lady with his charms. And that he had a drink without me." Eldak takes the time to walk around the room and greet the rest of the party.
"I'm looking forward to another mission with you all, but let's try to avoid furniture this time," he says winking at White Eagle. "Hopefully my abilities can be of some use to us again."
-Posted with Wayfinder
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Lukaas tries to sound offended
"attempting to dazzle"? Only "attempting"? Consider Mylady Briallen dazzled behind all hope. She SOOOOOOO dazzled she doesn't even know how much dazed she truly is.
Sighing, he adds
I confess that you are right on one point, however: I had a drink without you. Probably more than one. But we can finish the bottle together, and gives a toast to Cayden, for the future success of our mission.
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"Briallen it appears we have a mission," Eldak stops as he notices her placing a well documented drawing of the lorestone into her bag. "Well I knew I had drifted off, but didn't know I had been absent that long."
"For those I haven't met, I'm Eldak Moonshadow. Skilled in the arts of divination." The elf gives a curt bow to the lady and the tiefling in the room. "As for the rest of you, it is a pleasure to see you again. It sounds as though Lukaas is already attempting to dazzle the lady with his charms. And that he had a drink without me." Eldak takes the time to walk around the room and greet the rest of the party.
"I'm looking forward to another mission with you all, but let's try to avoid furniture this time," he says winking at White Eagle. "Hopefully my abilities can be of some use to us again."
For a diviner, you failed to divine the dangers of furniture on our last mission. lets hope you fare better on this one. he quips with a tone of jocularity.
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"My friend I will definitely share a drink with you," as Eldak takes the bottle from Lukaas and indulges in a drink.
"I confess I do believe the lady is either completely overcome with you or has already learned to ignore you."
Overhearing the quip from White Eagle, "I will do my best my friend to keep a better eye out for sentient furniture," he says with a slight chuckle.
-Posted with Wayfinder
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I woo none but Lady Victory, consort to my Lord in Iron. Now come. We have far to travel. If you wish to cavort about, do it in the direction of the mission.
Oh, and it is good to see you, Eldak.
Now, you wish, I have prepared several of my church's favorite ballads for or entertainment on the road.
With no further questions, the Pathfinders begin their preparations for travel. Passage to Taldor has been arranged for them aboard The Kestrel, a fast Taldane sloop, and the journey is uneventful from there overland to the town of Wispil where Falbin's home is located.
Wispil is a bustling town built on a small scale—although humans and elves walk the streets, most buildings are built to accommodate the gnomes who live and work in Wispil. The scent of fresh-cut lumber wafts through the town. Falbin’s home is not difficult to find. It is situated on the south edge of the town, with a large garden spreading out behind it. Most of the garden is obscured by high growth, but the sound of a violent argument carries into the street. Although it is not yet dark, firelight glimmers from within the garden walls.
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Eldak enjoys the sights of the city but keeps an eye out for anything that might be suspicious.
-Posted with Wayfinder
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For those interested in Gaeldrung's music, they experience quickly why Gorum doesn't have art his portfolio of divine aspects. The ballads are rhythmic, yes, but that rhythm is provided by Gaeldrung slamming the metal head of his ax against the metal of his armor. The lyrics
consist of loudly proclaimed feats of bravery in battle. Interestingly, the outcome of the battles is downplayed most times in favor of the conflict itself.
Gaeldrung himself usually wakes a good part of the ship's crew every morning with one of these hymns that last at least an hour each. If asked to stop, he gladly offers the matter be settled via ritual combat.
Upon arriving at Falbin's home, his gaze sweeps over all.
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[dice=perception (CWE)]1d20+11
As they approach the home Elangomat takes off circling the area and getting a good view of the property.
[dice=perception elangomat]1d20+14
the sounds of fighting, perhaps there is something amiss that we should be wary of. we should be careful of what we say.
Indeed. We wouldn't want to end it early.
You can hear the sound of either several campfires or one big one, but who-ever is talking seems to be lowering his voice not to be overheard from anyone walking down the street.
There are three men arguing. "We've got as much as we need. Burn the rest."
"What do we need to burn it for?"
"Competition."
You gather that they have stolen something and can piece together that they are in the process of setting fire to the garden.
Briallen and Lukaas listen but do not pick out anything special.