GM supervillan's Blakros Matrimony (PFS) (Inactive)

Game Master supervillan

Separate post just to make it a bit easier to follow. We're going into the influence game now.

By working together with each other to share what you already know, and speaking with the three faction heads present, you are able to identify four significant personages on board (as far as the Pathfinder Society's interests go anyway; there are no 'insignificant' wedding guests!).

Influence phase: the boat ride.

Please see discussion thread for mechanical details.

There are four potential influence targets present:

Nigel Aldain, curator of the Blakros Museum. A tall, thin elf with long, dark hair pulled back in a ponytail, wearing fine clothes and silver-rimmed spectacles Nigel looks the part of an academic dandy. While he fidgets with his glasses when involved in conversations (he prefers books), one hand always calmly holds a glass of wine.

Alexander Bedard, representative of the Andoran People's Council. Bedard has a muscular build, and despite his short stature, he’s an imposing presence in any crowd. As a member of the People’s Council, Bedard dresses in the finest of tailored garments and wears navy blue for the festivities to show his patriotism. No matter how much he grooms, however, the politician has a permanent shadow of stubble on his chin, giving him a rugged and somewhat dangerous demeanor.

Jeon Raeng-Woo, Blakros family trade liaison. A well-dressed Tian man in his early thirties, Raeng-Woo is easily recognised by his unkempt black hair and slightly dazed smile.

Rubaani Shafar, mercenary guard commander. A tall and muscular Garundi woman, Rubaani looks out of place in her ceremonial half-plate armor. A scar covers the right side of Rubaani’s face. She is personally overseeing the security operation.

Instead of interacting with one of these four "targets" you can spend your Influence Phase talking with and potentially influencing other people, or doing other things.

Carrick and Flyn: Aldain and Raeng-Woo count as Absalom residents for your fashionable accessories. Bedard is obviously wearing Andoran ceremonial dress. Shafar is an itinerant soldier.

It might help to think of the Influence phase as working a bit like a round of combat. You name your target, describe your interaction with that target, then make a dice roll. Go ahead and work the room Pathfinders!

Do we know if Imrizade is a sister to the one being wed? Know she was a Blakros daughter but not sure who her parents were?

Imrizade is a cousin of the bride. You might not know that from prior experience, but it's easy to learn from the guests.

Carrick decides he should honor the wishes of his faction leader and interact with the Blakros head of security, Rubaani Shafar. He approaches her:

How is it in a room full of dressed up nobles, the one person who looks the most comfortable is wearing armor. I was planning to wear my armor too, but was advised to wear this finery instead, it just feels strange to be in this get up, but I do like the hat. Removing the hat, Carrick gives a slight respectful bow to Shafer and adds, Allow me to introduce myself, I am Carrick Castermill, Pathfinder and more specifically, Silver Crusader. My patron, the Silver Crusade leader, Ollysta Zadrian, sends greetings as well.

He waits for her reaction before continuing.

Not sure if you are wanting to have a little back and forth on these interactions. If not...

Carrick will attempt to discuss various military endeavors of the Silver Crusade he's been part of and the Silver Crusade cause of snuffing out evil throughout the land, attempting to appeal to her military training.

Definitely aiming for some back and forth, the scenario will be more fun that way. We'll keep that diplomacy roll, and I'll apply situational modifiers based on how you are interacting, and whether anyone else tries to help or otherwise interact with Shafar during this phase.

Carrick: Shafar eyes you up as you approach. She is standing at one side of the quarterdeck, so that she has a wide view of the ongoing festivities. "I look comfortable do I, Crusader Castermill? Ha! I assure you it's a front! Years of practice. This is not the field where I fight my battles. Give me bandits or monsters over nobles and politicians, any day. Whoever advised you against wearing armour here was right though." She nods towards a group of people across the other side of the deck. "Even the Hellknights are in ceremonial armour, not their usual suits of iron. You show up to a Blakros wedding wearing real armour, all those nobles are going to treat you like a guard, not a guest. Now if that's what you'd prefer, I'm always looking for good soldiers. Sounds like you've already got a boss though. Never heard of this Zadrian. I've heard of the Pathfinder Society of course. Even read a few of those Chronicles..."

By all means tell her more!

I'll bring my weapons, peace bonded. Three swords isn't weird at all, right? Armor can go below deck for now. 'll also use a charge off of my CLW wand to get it past security.

Kramac will approach Jeon Rang Wu. He approaches the man and offers a hearty handshake after introducing himself.

Greetings Mr Wu! I am Kramac of the Pathfinder society! You're the trade liaison for the Blackros family? Surely you must have some grand stories from your work! Have you ever had cause to travel to the Mwangin expanse. There are truly some wondrous things to see there.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24

Kramac: "Good morning to you Mr Kramac of the Pathfinder Society. I am indeed Jeon Raeng-Woo, trade liaison for the Blakroses." Woo finishes his sparkling wine and takes another from a passing servant. "I am primarily concerned with facilitating trade between the family's businesses in Absalom and the Dragon Empires of Tian Xia. So, I am afraid I have not had cause to travel in the Mwangi Expanse. My work is quite boring. Here! Have another glass of the 4701 Iadaran chablis, it's chilled to perfection! Tell me of the Expanse, please, and all its wonders!" He takes a swig of the fine elven wine and smiles at you broadly.

Qatala will also approach Jeon Reang-Woo as she sees Kramac approach him.
She bows and says Good morning Jeon Raeng-Woo trade liason, my name is Qatala and like my friend Kramac I am a pathfinder but I am part of the exchange which likes to make deals and facilitate trade. I am not a diplomat but i have traveled in Tien and enjoyed my time there.

Jeon returns Qatala's bow, being careful not to spill his wine. He grins broadly. "Ah, the Pathfinder Society has merchants then? Very good! Have some wine! Let us toast to free trade and the entrepreneurial spirit!" He grabs a glass of wine from a nearby servant's tray and hands it to Qatala.

"Sore de, anata wa dō torihiki shimasu ka?"

Seeing Nigel Aldain, Flyn ponders a moment before heading over to greet him. He's met him on two different occasions and, while not a bad fellow, he could be a bit temperamental or stand-offish...the Elf decided to start off slow with the man...

Flyn walks over to him with a warm smile and bows. "Nice to see you again, sir."

"Hmm? Do I know you?" Nigel begins. Then his eyes alight on Flyn's wayfinder. "Oh. I see. You're a Pathfinder then, I presume."
Nigel glances over Flyn's shoulders, and around the quarterdeck, as though looking for a way out.

Flyn maintains his smile, tough as that is. "My mistake sir...I could've sworn you were the curator of the Blakros museum that hired me to bring back artifacts from the fallen fortress, who seemed pleased with what I acquired. I thought you were also the same curator that asked for Pathfinders to rescue Imrizade Blakros from an aberrant sorcerer in your museum basement, a successful mission which I was a part of. Forgive my faulty memory as we Elves live long lives; the curator I recall was far more gracious..." Flyn bows again and turns to leave...

Dorje would have liked to talk to Jeon Raeng-Woo but when he saw two of his fellow men with him, he turned his attention to Alexander Bedard. First he takes the paper and writes something to it. So he went to Alexander and handed him a message. "Good day, sir! My name is Dorje. As you can see I'm communicating this way. Nice party, are you having fun? Are you in a relationship with the Blakros family or...?"

Sense motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15

Time for a summary post now that everyone has spoken.

Carrick: in conversation with Rubaani Shafar, who would like to hear more about your exploits as a Pathfinder...

Dorje: Bedard reads your note, and his face reddens. He screws up your piece of paper and clenches his (rather massive) fists. "Is this some kind of sick joke?!" Bedard continues: "You're with those Pathfinders, aren't you? That bastard Kastner has put you up to this! He knows how I feel about Michellia! He's invited me here just to humiliate me!" Other guests nearby overhear Bedard's outburst, and mutter to each other. Many of them are grinning.

Dorje, you have Discovered Bedard's social weakness. He was, in fact, a suitor to Michellia Blakros. But she chose Damian Kastner over him. Mentioning Bedard's failure puts him off his guard, and makes future influencing attempts easier (for the whole party). You can continue roleplaying with Bedard if you wish, but your action for the influence phase is taken.

Flyn:"Discretion!" Aldain almost hisses under his breath as you turn. "Diskreetti on koko syy, josta olen joskus lähestynyt organisaatiota avuksi tai tarjonnut sinulle työtä. Ja sinä vain haavoitat minua, täällä kaikista paikoista, ja aja suustasi. Paikalliset polkuharjoittajat ovat selvästi hämmästyttävämpiä kuin polkupyöräilijät häissä."

Kramac and Qatala: in conversation with Jeon Raeng-Woo. Woo is very jovial, and keen to hear about trade opportunities. Qatala, you can make a Diplomacy or Profession: Merchant check here.

I'll wind up Influence Phase 1 once you have done with your roleplay interactions.

Carrick is encourage by Rubaani Shafar reaction and continues. Yes, Ollysta Zadrian, is a paladin of Sarenrae, and as I mentioned the leader of the Silver Crusade. While I'm an Iomedean, we still all believe in many of the same fundamental tenants. Chiefly among them using the Society's influence, reach, and resources to do good throughout the Inner Sea region and beyond. He pauses for a moment, then continues.

Now in my experience, this comes most likely in the form of ridding the world of evil and helping those less fortunate. For example, not long ago I was dispatched to Razmiran to rescue some kidnapped dwarven diplomats, we found them and saved them, but found out at the heart of supposed Razmiran priests was devil-summoning and evil intents. But that's not the worst of it from their I travel to the Worldwound and aided the crusaders there, you wouldn't believe a land crawling with demons. Brazen and set on the destruction of this world.

Carrick continues on with tales of the actual battles he's fought, as long as it seems to hold Rubanni's attention. If she seems to tire of the conversation, he asks her about her exploits as well.

Kramac takes what is undoubtedly a very fine glass of wine, takes a large swig, and swishes it around in his mouth before swallowing it. He give Jeong a hearty slap on the back snd says

Aha! This wine is spectacular! I've never tasted something so fine. Such delicate flavors! Back in the Mwangi where I grew up, we mainly drank crude wines of fermented fruit. Nothing so formal that you could assign a vintage to it, but it did the trick.

As for the wonders of the Mwangi... they are endless. The Pathfinders could spend an entire lifetime exploring just the Expanse. I have seen water falls so tall they disappear into the clouds . I have seen dinosaurs and lost civilizations, untouched for centuries. And my good friend Kuuma! He is from the expanse. One must be wary in the Expanse however! For every wonder, there is also a danger! Many wicked demons and their misguided worshipers live in the area. And there are natural hazards too - dinosaurs and carnivorous plants and mosquitoes the size of your head.

Kramac pauses to look around the room. He locates a server and shouts out You! Waiter! More wine for my new friend and I please! He turns back to Jeong. What is it we were drinking? The 4701 Chablis? Waiter! The 4701 Chablis please!

Qatala smiles at the antics of Kramac and then quietly says to Jeon Raeng-Woo in Tien. Honoured trade master I represent the interests of the exchange and we have a wonderful trade oppertunity to put your way. We have a way to trade similar to your methods of using the plane of shadow. would you be interested?

profession merchant: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

"I'm sorry I was completely unaware of your misfortune. The rejection of Miss Michelle has hit you so much, but you are a handsome man with a lot of success in your career and that is what every girl wants. There are many girls in the world. I know they are not all out of such an influential family. But happiness is in love and not in influence. I am convinced that you will find a girl who will make you happy and make you proud."
Write this Dorje on paper and give the paper to Bedard.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21

Flyn maintains an even smile and speaks quietly but firmly. "Kunnioitettu Sir, en ole valssi tänne ja nokka pois... nähtyitkö ja työskennellyt teille pari kertaa, ajattelin, että olisit töykeä, jos olen laiminlyönyt sinua. Kävelin yli ja tervehti sinua yksinkertainen ja hiljainen tavalla... ja sinä puhalsi minut pois ja kielsi tietämättä minua, niin miten muuten olin toimia, kun käsitellään, mikä näytti olevan tahallinen loukkaus?

Mutta minä olen arvaamaan naimisiin osaksi Blakros perhe on korostaa omaa ja vielä tehostettava sosiaalisessa tilanteessa, kuten tämä. Jos voit antaa anteeksi oman harkintansa mukaan, voin antaa anteeksi sinun lyhyys."

Diplomacy (Discovery): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 1 = 18

If that was well received, Flyn will try a more congenial line of conversation, speaking above a whisper but low enough to avoid eavesdropping ears. "Miten hinta asioita museossa? Vaikka tiedän et tarkalleen nähdä silmän silmään yhteiskunnan kanssa, olen työskennellyt sinulle sekä itsenäisesti että Pathfinder ja Ihailen pyrkimyksiä parantaa historiallista tietämystä täällä Absalom."

Diplomacy (Influence): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 1 = 19

Closing Influence Phase 1...

Flyn: Nigel's tone changes. "Antakaa anteeksi, kiitos. Meitä ympäröi joitain häikäilemättömiä poltikkoja Inner Sea. Yksi väärä sana väärässä korvassa voi olla ihmisen hajoaminen. Tämä häät on vaarallisempi kuin mihin tahansa muinaiseen raunioon, jota olet tutkinut. Merkitys ei ole rikos, mutta käsittelen tuhansia eri ihmisiä työssäni. Ostajat, myyjät, aarteenmetsästäjät ja heidän edustajansa. En muista kaikkia kasvoja."

Carrick: Shafar smiles as Carrick recounts his battles against evil. "How I wish I could test my blade against against the spawn of the abyss, instead of thieves and bandits! In my youth, before I took over the Company, I had some adventures! Ah, I won this scar fighting manticores in the Bandu hills! Alas, we are contracted to the Blakroses and I cannot countenance breaking that contract. But... I could have Lieutenant Grieves look after Madame's needs for a while if I was to take a sabbatical. Come see me at my office in Absalom after the festivities." For a moment, Carrick sees a young and vigourous adventurer instead of a jaded veteran soldier. Obviously Carrick has made a big impression.

Dorje: Whilst Dorje writes out a new note, Bedard storms off, hurling the first screwed up piece of paper overboard. Bedard goes below to the maindeck. Several other guests crowd around Dorje, with obvious glee on their faces. "Oh, that was simply delicious! Did you see the look on his face? Bedard is twice Michellia's age, how could he ever have imagined he stood a chance with her? Foolish Andoran!" A second communication with Bedard will have to wait for another opportunity.

Kramac: It isn't long before Kramac and Woo are arm-in-arm, and Kramac is sharing songs that he picked up from his friend Paicho. Kramac and Woo burst into song, encouraged by a small group of onlookers.

Qatala: whilst Kramac and Woo drink and sing, Qatala proposes a new trade route to Woo. "Wassat? No, no, we can't go through the Plane of Shadow anymore since we broke the Accord with the Onyx Alliance. Huh? Tapestry? Hao-jin? Wowowowow! Yeah, we can do that! You guys are the best! Let's sing! Let's drink!"
Kramac and Qatala have won over Jeon Raeng-Woo.

A reminder that you each get one influence or discovery check per influence phase. So I haven't used Dorje or Flyn's second Diplomacy rolls.

This concludes Influence Phase 1. I will post again soon.

The journey to Pariol Island is straightforwards and efficient, and you arrive on time in the early evening, having watched the sun go down from the quarterdeck of the Sterling Sapphire. The whole journey is an eight-hour party. Even Kuuma enjoys himself: slinking away whilst Kramac sings with Woo, Kuuma follows his nose to the ship's galley. Both serving staff and guests happily feed Kuuma until he falls into a contented sleep. Only when the ship comes into port does Kuuma wake and sniff out his master.

See map of Pariol Island on slide 3. The port is at the east of the island. In the centre are pavillions. North of the pavillions are guest cottages. At the far north of the island is a chapel. To the southwest of the island, a burned down "summer house."

The Sterling Sapphire docks on the east of the island. The docks look newly constructed. A cadre of Shafar's mercenary guards keeps watch, and you are ushered off the pier. Servants take the guests luggage.

A newly paved path leads into the island. It is lit by oil lamps, on posts, at regular intervals. Liveried servants direct you. The sound of romantic lute-music fills the cool night air. As you reach the centre of the island you see a group of beautiful silk pavillions. More liveried servants bring yet more wine. An elegantly dressed woman of middle age greets the guests as they are showed to seats in the main pavillion. She has olive skin and long, straight black hair, and is dressed in a formal crushed velvet dress that accentuates her form without being inappropriately revealing.

"Welcome, welcome honoured guests! Tonight, and tomorrow, we celebrate the marriage of my beloved eldest daughter Michellia. We honour our contract. We honour our family, and the family of the groom. We remember what makes us strong. We give thanks for our friends and our allies. But there will be time enough for speeches! There will be food and drink to last the night through! The wedding ceremony begins at dawn, my friends. Vroclaw assures me it is much easier to endure without a hangover, so of course I have ensured that remedies are provided in your guest quarters!"

This is the mother of the Bride, Hamaria Blakros.

Influence phase: welcome party (i)

There are now five influence targets present:

Nigel Aldain. You have uncovered Nigel's weakness. Mention his marriage, and influencing him is easier.

Alexander Bedard. You have uncovered Bedard's weakness. Mention his failed courtship of Michellia Blakros and influencing him is easier.

Hamaria Blakros, mother of the Bride and Matriarch of the Blakros family.

Jeon Raeng-Woo. You do not need to further influence Woo.

Rubaani Shafar. You do not need to further influence Shafar.

In addition, you can choose to try to influence someone else or use your time to do something different.

Influence phase 2 is underway!

Can we talk to those we've talked to before? I.e., can I talk again to Nigel?

Yes, you can. The only limitation is that you only get one "action" per influence phase, either an influence check or a discovery check.

Edit: I am assuming you share all your information with each other.

Flyn wanders over to Carrick and Kramac, whispering to them, "Talk to Nigel Aldain...he might be stand-offish at first but if you mention his marriage (he's married to a Blakros), he'll be easier to talk with...talk quietly to him as he's a bit paranoid 'bout being overheard by rivals..."

Carrick, several areas of Pariol Island will count as "urban" for the purposes of your favoured terrain. These are the areas that feature buildings: the docks, pavilions, guest cottages, and chapel. (Some of these are temporary buildings, but they still count as buildings so your favoured terrain benefits apply).

Flyn and Carrick, Hamaria Blakros is a denizen of Absalom for the purposes of your fashionable accessories.

Flyn will approach Nigel, bow, and speak in low tones with the curator.

"Arvon herra, haluan jatkaa edellistä keskustelua, mutta älä pelkää, koska en enää mainitse yhteyksiesi Blakrosseja kohtaan. Vaan mieluummin puhua vähän kauppaa kanssasi...

Vaikka tiedän ettet? Näe tarkasti silmällä seurakuntaa, olen työskennellyt sekä itsenäisesti että pyöräilijänä ja ihailen teitä pyrkimyksissän parantaa historiallista tietoa Absalomissa ... ja sen jälkeen. Teit uusia mielenkiintoisia havaintoja, jotka ovat sinun vapautta puhua?"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16

Qatala will approach Hamaria Blakros and wait patiently until she is free before bowing and saying Honoured matriarch thank you for hosting such a wonderful party in honour of the upcomming marriage, my name is Qatala a pathfinder of the exchange faction and i offer my services should they be needed.

Qatala will observe her response closely haveing observed her before dealing with other guests. Trying to discover rather then influence.

sense motive: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (15) + 12 = 27

Having overheard a bit of Bedard's outburst at Dorje earlier, Carrick decides to speak with the Andoran. Finding Bedard Carrick introduces himself.

Greetings, Councilor Bedard, I am Carrick Castermill of the Silver Crusade faction of the Pathfinder Society. I had hope to find a chance to introduce myself to you and discuss how the Silver Crusade can aid the cause of freedom in the Inner Sea. Carrick pauses.

My hope was to hear some of the ideas from the People's Council that might be effective in less fortunate corners of the world. Although, I must admit I heard a little of your reaction back on the boat and wonder if this is not a good time for such discussions. Being jilted in never easy, so I'll understand if you don't want to talk. But perhaps a shop talk will be a welcome distraction.

I think I'm going to go after Hamaria, but want to wait for to find out the weakness from Qatala

Benefits from uncovering new weaknesses (i.e. Hamaria's) will not apply till next Influence Phase, so go ahead and say hi to the Matriarch. I'll resolve the results of everyone's interactions at the end of each Influence Phase. I see that probably wasn't apparent from how I reported results during the first Influence Phase, as you were mainly working on different targets.

Dorje came to Bedard and Carrick and apologized for interrupting the conversation and gave Bedard a message on paper."Excuse me, Mr Bedard, regarding your obsession with the bride. I just want to help you! If you will, I can introduce you to my friend from Absalom when you come to Absalom. She is younger much than you. She is from a rich family but not as influential as Blakros. She is very beautiful. Are you interested? She loves the type of men as you are.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16

Kramac approaches Hamaria. Greetings Mistress Blakros! I am Kramac, and I am truly honored to be a guest at your daughter's wedding. The Pathfinders have sent me to represent our organization. I have never received such a delightful assignment! Your trade minister has been educating me on the finer points of great wine. Luckily, you have provided quite the master class in this subject for us to enjoy! Truly, there are only two things more splendid than this party: the beauty of you and your daughter! Let me be the first to raise a glass to you and your hospitality!

With that, Kramac will proceed to swallow his entire glass of wine in one gulp.

diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26

Influence Phase 2 update.

Flyn: Nigel's smooth exterior does not hold up to Flyn's subtle scrutiny, and the curator practically jumps at the chance to speak in his area of expertise rather than his family. "Ah, well, the museum is, of course, one of the family's greatest achievements. It was formerly the base of a powerful wizard. Now, it is the foremost private collection of antiquities in the Inner Sea. I'd wager my collection rivals that sealed within the vaults of your Grand Lodge, master, er... you have me at a disadvantage I think?" Nigel is now speaking quite freely to Flyn. You are making progress.

Carrick: When Carrick pauses in his introduction to Bedard, the Andoran grasps the half-elf's hand in a meaty fist and gives him a firm handshake. "Well met, citizen!" Bedard's bluster vanishes as Carrick mentions his failed courtship, but he grasps the chance to speak of his homeland. "Ah, you are most wise to seek my counsel citizen Castermill! The Eagle of Freedom desires ever to spread her wings over the people of the Inner Sea! All peoples crave freedom. You wish to know how your Society can foster the cause of Freedom? Show all these so-called 'nobles' that they are no better than anyone else! We have no kings in Andoran. We exiled all those 'nobles' who would not join with the cause of Freedom! Nobody deserves to be held above other people merely because of the circumstances of their birth! Did you choose your parents? Did you earn your natural gifts? Is it not unjust, for one man to have enough to feed and house twenty whilst his fellows starve in the streets?" Bedard is in full swing when Dorje arrives...

Dorje: When Dorje thrusts another piece of paper into Bedard's hand, Bedard halts his polemic and takes in the odd dwarf. "You again!?" he scowls, but is wary of making another scene. Bedard reads the note. His lower lip trembles, and his fists clench. He looks at Dorje's earnest face, and a smile appears, followed by a chuckle. "Oh really? You have a rich, beautiful young lady friend who can't wait to meet me and is sure to love me? I believe I have heard that one before!" Dorje, I need an explanation of your story.

Carrick and Dorje: Bedard has opened up to you.

Kramac and Qatala: Hamaria's piercing gaze moves about as she keeps tabs on all her guests—whether to ensure no one has an empty goblet or for some other, more politically motivated reason, she gives no indication. "Pathfinders! I am so happy you could make it! My family greatly values our mutually beneficial relationship. Kramac, you are quite the flatterer. You haven't even seen the bride yet! Michellia is preparing for the ceremony with her handmaids. It's bad luck for her to be seen the night before the ceremony you know. Michellia and her twin sister mean the world to me, of course. Do you have children, Qatala? It is a shame that Eleanir could not be here to share her sister's joy, but she is off adventuring in Garund with Imrizade and her other cousins."
Qatala, whilst Hamaria is an expert politician, your keen instinct for body language and physical clues tells you that something is off. Hamaria keeps looking at her guards. She is nervous, although it takes your kind of skill to see it. It isn't nerves about the ceremony. She is afraid. Hamaria fears some sort of attack. You have Discovered her weakness. The party can more easily influence Hamaria by either Intimidating her to play up her family's vulnerability to attack, or assuaging her fears via Diplomacy or Bluff. Kramac, Hamaria seems to be enjoying your company.

Everyone's actions for this phase are complete except for Dorje's.

"Flyndyngyln at your service, master curator, but you may call me Flyn..."

She is Ivana Horat. I told you that she was not from an influential family. And she's rich because parents have made a lot of money in the textile trade. They live modestly. They are known only in the circles of people who deal with textiles.

There are multiple influence phases at the welcome party, so I am going to move you along into...

Influence Phase: welcome party (ii)

The party goes on into the night. The food is exquisite. Meat and game from all around the Inner Sea, served in delicious sauces; seafood of all varieties from not just the Inner Sea, but all the far-flung waters of Golarion; spices from Vudra and Garund; exotic fruits from Jalmeray and Sargava; all of it prepared by expert chefs and accompanied by vintage wines.

You are entertained by halfling clowns, Varisian fire-eaters, an Ulfen skald regaling you with epics, famous opera singers from Taldor, Ustalav and Cheliax, and skilled musicians.

The same five influence targets are present:

Nigel Aldain. You have uncovered his weakness. He has been conversing with Flyn.
Alexander Bedard. You have uncovered his weakness. He has been engaging Carrick in political discourse whilst Dorje attempts to play match-maker and fix his broken heart.
Hamaria Blakros. You have uncovered her weakness. She is entertained by Kramac's flattery.
Jeon Raeng-Woo and Rubaani Shafar. You do not need to further influence these persons.

Carry on with your interactions. You can continue with the NPCs you were previously speaking to, or chop and change as you prefer.

Qatala will stay close to Hamaria, but mainly to observe and watch for danger rather then interact as she is weak in that area. watching for people with ill intent or issues like attempts to tamper with food or drink.

Flyn smiles and nods to Nigel. "From my forays into your museum, I doubt not your words, very impressive indeed. You've no doubt been a good influence on your wife's cousin, Imrizade, as she's found some impressive, though some dangerous, finds as well...

"I look forward to working with you again in the very near future, for our mutual benefit, and Absalom's as well..."

Diplomacy (Influence): 1d20 + 1 + 1d4 ⇒ (18) + 1 + (1) = 20 (Using once per scenario Grand Lodge pin roll, if allowed in PBF)

Flyn: When you mention Imrizade, a flash of insight, or perhaps recognition, crosses Nigel's face. "Ah! You're one of those Pathfinders! Well why didn't you say so? Imrizade is well, I believe, although off having more adventures. Acquiring anciient osiriani artifacts. Took young Eleanir with her this time, and when Eleanir's sister is getting married too." The familiar discomfort when talking about the family is plain to see. "Let's see. If you'd truly like to work with me again, I have a lot of opportunities for you in Varisia just now. But I keep hearing that Pathfinders are getting in the way of my employees!"

You can use faction pin boons in pbp, just like you can use GM/merchandise rerolls.

Think I'll put my fashionable accessories into play and talk to Hamaria this round.

Carrick mingles around the party a bit. He sees both Qatala and Hamaria looking tense and heads that way. With a bow and tip of his fashionable hat to the Blakros Matriarch, My good Lady, so delightful to meet you, I wasn't sure I would get the chance to introduce myself, with how busy I'm sure you are. I'm Carrick Castermill of the Pathfinder Society, and I just wanted to let you know how pleased we all are to have received your invitation. The Society values our relationship with your family very much and is glad to be able to celebrate with you. But my good lady, I must say I can see worry on your face, and not just the normal amount you would expect to find on the mother of the bride. Rest assured the assembled Pathfinders will steadfastly stand by your side if anyone or anything tries to disrupt the festivities. Carrick gives a reassuring smile.

Carrick (and Qatala observing): Hamaria Blakros allows a small sigh to escape her lips before her 'mask' is back in place. "It shows, does it? Thank-you for informing me, agent Castermill. Even your friend Kramac's flattery could not put me entirely at ease. I fear that we are not done with the Onyx Alliance yet. We broke the Accord, and I am convinced the Alliance hasn't finished in its attempts to exact vengeance for that. I trust Shafar to guard us, her company has served my family well for generations. But I do not know that she can cope with an assault by the Onyx Alliance, with all the resources they command. And so, I am doubly glad that the Pathfinders are here with us." Hamaria returns Carrick's smile, and relaxes just a little.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (5) + 14 = 19

After Carrick finishes speaking, Kramac leans in close. His voice drops from his usual jovial tone and he says And if anyone does try to harm you, your family, or your guests, Kramac will crush their wicked skulls in his bare hands. Kramac holds his hands out in front of him as is he was doing so at that moment. After saying that, Kramacs jovial smile returns, and he gives Carrick a hearty slap on the back But I am sure it will not come to that!

Kramac: "I believe you would, dear Kramac, I believe you would." Hamaria Blakros lays her hand on Kramac's shoulder as he leans in. Almost imperceptibly, she whispers "And I would enjoy watching you do it."

Carrick grins at Kramac, He loves what he does!

Lady Blakros, I'll keep my eyes peeled for any sign of those shadowy denizens and let Shafar know immediately if any looks amiss. He says reassuringly.

Dorje comes to Bedard and give him a piece of paper that says, "Mr. Bedard did you think about my offer? I'll tell her a good word about you. I'm sure in success."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 1 = 13

Flyn chuckles lightly. "Ah Varisia...I do indeed look forward to working with you again sir, but I fear you've named the one place where I currently cannot. As you mentioned, there's a significant Pathfinder presence there and I'd have a definite conflict of interest in that region...

"In fact the Society wishes to ask if you can give them some space to operate in Varisia. However, I will not ask that of you...you are an honorable curator and have a right to survey where you wish. Now if there's another project of note where there'd be no such conflict of interest or, if you ever reach accord with the Society in Varisia, then I'm your Elf..."

Concluding influence phase 3...

Dorje: Bedard squints at you. "Master dwarf, I believe you are trying to do me a kindness. I thank you for your thoughtfulness, but I am not looking for anyone to console me."

Flyn: "Flyn, I believe that is twice now you have said a thing without saying it. I should not be surprised that the Society sent skilled politicians to represent it here. I need skilled people in my operation. But I will not ask you to act against the wishes of your superiors." Nigel looks you straight in the eye, with just the faintest of smiles on his lips. He almost seems to be enjoying the verbal jousting.

Carrick, Qatala and Kramac: Hamaria seems more comfortable after your conversation with her. As she moves around the pavilions she looks towards you from time to time, instead of glancing at her guards.

It is now past midnight, and the 'welcome party' shows no sign of winding down.

The Paracountess Zarta Dralneen glides over to you whilst you are conferring. In a quiet, breathy voice she murmurs to you. "Oh my darlings, don't look now but we have a latecomer! Tancred Desimire! That deviant viper! Advisor to the Imperial Throne, and cousin of the groom. One of the most powerful men in the empire. How I would love to see him humiliated here! Oh but be careful darlings, Desimire is truly venomous..." Dralneen slinks away and starts whispering in the ear of a handsome young guest before you can respond. You scan the room, and see the man that she must have been speaking of. Desimire is a middle-aged man with carefully trimmed black hair and a distinctly retreating hairline. The Chelish noble is dressed in fine black attire and looks on at all the activities around him in sinister amusement. Half a dozen guests have already surrounded Desimire, eager to speak with him.

Infuence Phase: welcome party (iii)

There are now six influence targets present. However, it is clear enough to you that you have already won over Hamaria Blakros, Jeon Raeng-Woo, Rubaani Shafar. The other influence targets are:

Nigel Aldain. Enjoying a verbal contest with Flyn.
Alexander Bedard. Keen to espouse his politics, less keen to discuss matters of the heart.
Tancred Desimire. Very late to arrive, but obviously comfortable amongst the nobles and potentates. There is always a crowd around him.

Influence Phase 4 is begun!

Flyn smiles warmly. "Indeed...I shall no longer bandy words with you sir. But I can truly say that, while I may have been asked to persuade you to give our agents a little room to operate in Varisia, I was not ordered to do so...and I will not do so. Nor was it the intent of my attending the festivities here. I meant it when I said you have no less rights than we to Varisian artifacts. I mentioned it only for informational purposes and hopefully to avoid any misunderstandings or unpleasantness in Varisia for both parties...

As for my initially approaching you, my primary intent was only to ask you how Imrizade has been faring since her ordeal with the sorceror...which I will belatedly do now, if you don't mind..."

Diplomacy (Influence): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20

Dorje could not believe how people did not want to accept the help and went to a place where he had little peace to think about Life.

Flyn: "You are an elf of many talents, Flyn. A treasure-hunter and a politician too. I am sure I shall call on those talents again in the future. Oh, and Imrizade recovered well, thankyou. Well enough to resume her adventures."

Flyn's diplomacy dice are hot! Must be something magic in that manticore-beard cloak of his.

Dorje: Dejected by Bedard's rejection of his offer of help in matters of love, Dorje left the pavilions to seek a space to meditate. A few hundred yards from the celebrations, he sat beneath a tree and reflected. He had given many years to the study of the doctrines and philosophies of the Master of Masters. But Unbinding the Fetters did not speak of love. Perhaps the doctrines of Bolka would be more useful?