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The invitation delivered last night was remarkably simple, especially given the importance of the occasion: “Start where it all began. Meet us at the Pig’s Paunch one hour before dawn.”
The Pig’s Paunch is a run-down building with a faded sign of a large pig standing on its hind legs, arms folded above a corpulent belly. Inside, the air is thick with the scents of human sweat, stale tobacco, and leftover food. In the center of the room, surrounded by inebriates sleeping off their revelries, a familiar elven man stands high upon top of a large round table.
“Welcome! Welcome, my students! Please, have a seat!” With that, Kreighton Shaine, the Pathfinder Society’s Master of Scrolls, nimbly drops down to sit cross-legged on the table before looking about the tavern with a sense of reverent wonder. “Can you believe it? It all started here years ago—well, over four hundred of them at least. Under this very roof the Pathfinder Society was born.
“But today! Today you will begin your Confirmation! Master Farabellus, Master Zey, and I all agree you each have shown your worth and dedication to the Society, so there’s no better time to see if you can handle becoming full field operatives. Allow me to introduce you to Janira Gavix,” he says as he motions for an excitable halfling woman to approach. She wears a large backpack and carries all manner of tools, pouches, and scroll cases around her waist. Shaine continues, saying, “Janira here will be going with you on your Confirmation. She was one of my brightest pupils and will no doubt be an invaluable resource on your journey, for she discovered the caves you are about to explore during her own Confirmation.”
Janira speaks up in an enthusiastic and cheerful voice, “Greetings, aspiring Pathfinders! Six months ago, while I was mapping cave entrances in the foothills of the Kortos Mounts, I witnessed a lone gillman entering a concealed cave. I thought little of it at the time, but I saw another one enter the cave again a month later as my Confirmation stretched on. A few days later, after I completed my assigned task, I entered the cave system, but was unable to find the gillmen.”
Master Shaine hops to his feet. “Initiates, for your Confirmation, you will travel to these caves to explore and document its many passages. Additionally, and most importantly, you are to learn what the gillmen are up to in there. Oh, and you need to come back alive as well.” With these parting words, the Master of Scrolls jumps off the table and strolls out of the building while humming to himself.
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A stout halfling with comparatively large muscles strides up to the meeting place, as close to exactly on time as possible. He has packed all of his gear neatly and is in a state of high anticipation, loath as he is to show it. About time I get a chance at Confirmation. I've done odd jobs and study around the Lodge for enough years. But of course our instructor has to be another halfling...
Aloud, he says, "Such experience will be useful, I'm sure. What were the circumstances when the gillmen entered the cave? Any particular weather, or wildlife abroad? And what is the area like at and around these mountains? I have not had the opportunity to explore very far around the island."
To any who inquire as to his name and specialty, he bows and replies, "I am Sejiri, holy hand of the halfling goddess Chaldira. As such, I am an expert when it comes to combat, be it up close or from afar. And what are you capable of, A team that knows its strengths and trusts each other is one that inevitably triumphs."
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A painfully thin looking elf sits at the table, nursing what looks like milk. Her eyes are keen, and ears pointed, but she lacks many of the refined features that a true elf would have, and her hair is a ragged mess, done up in Varisian style.
"The moon sees all" she says in a slightly dreamy manner.
"It looks down on the middle of Kotos island and gazes at the mountain. It sees the centaurs, it gazes on the harpies, and watches with awe the minotaurs that play there."
She smiles. "The gillmen too it sees. The moon speaks, but few listen."
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Close behind the halfling walks a bald Vudrani man, more than double his height, with long athletic limbs. He wears a traditional temple sword across his back and the simple dress of a monastic order. An open palm decorates his waistband.
He speaks in a deep voice with a slow and measured tone "I know you are excited Sejiri, but there is no need to hurry. We will get here in plenty of time. Any path worth walking is best savored, not rushed."
He bows to the assembled of the room and introduces himself "I am Kembe, protector of Master Sejiri. We are here to prove our worth in the coming trials. We look forward to this test." He bows slowly with respect.
Kembe listens to the Elven woman, taking great care to hear her words and make them his own. "Well spoken wise one."
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Forvenniel blinks a bit, realising the others are speaking as well.
"The moon has many strengths. Alas my body does not. The staff I carry is to help me walk, not for fighting. I am able to help with a few minor wounds and cuts. And in the evenings I can dance."
She edges away from the large Vudrani man slightly, looking worriedly at him. "Why would a holy hand of Chaldira need a protector?" she murmurs half to herself, and half to the others assembled.
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Kembe looks to Forvenniel matter-of-factly "The evils of this world come for those who do good from all directions, having an extra set of eyes and ears helps to keep them at bay." His family would disown me if I ever let that happen.
After a moment of thought he returns his attention to the Halfling woman "Miss Janira, what sort of supplies will we be needing for this trip? Is it quite long?"
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The bronze-skinned beauty stares up at the elven Scroll Master and listens on silently. Her flaming red hair falling onto her shoulders and kept out of her eyes by a rose golden band, that matches her dangling golden earrings. She's dressed in robes of white, red, sky blue, and gold adorned with sunburst symbols.
When the opportunity presents itself she speaks up in a clear and loud voice that matches her piercing black eyes, I am Iuni Al-Ahdal, priestess of the Dawnflower; The Dawn Brings New Light, Pathfinders. She smiles brightly.
If the moon sees all, just think how much more the Sun sees! As she gives the gaunt looking elf a grin. Sarenrae blesses you all this day. Now who needs to hear of the redemption of the sun? She looks to Janira, Now how about these Gillmen, i wonder if they know of it?
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"What Kembe said, partially," Sejiri responds to Forvenniel. "Besides, it never hurts to have a companion and good friend to watch one's back, so long as you watch theirs in return. It would only be just, and all the better to make the darkness of the world cower."
The halfling watches in amusement as Iuni and Forvenniel go back and forth in a very calm manner. "Good morning to you, Norril. I am Sejiri, this is my friend Kembe, the bright one over there is Iuni, and while I do not believe we have the nice elf's name, she has bestowed upon us several interesting facts regarding the moon."
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An almost girlish giggle comes from Forvenniel.
"I am Forvenniel Anwanmane. And technically, I'm only half an elf.. or maybe three quarters." she smiles.
"The moon is very important for me. My major areas of study are the plants and animals of the world, and the society has been helpful in sharing their works on such matters. The moon controls the seasons, and dictates the right times for planting and breeding, among other things."
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Kembe gives a slightly odd look to the rousing man before taking a half step back and gently wagging his long index finger 'no'.
"It is nice to meet you all. By the sounds of it we will have many Gods watching our journeys, be they by night or by day."
Afterwards he is content to watch, listen and learn as the others discuss the Confirmation.
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Iuni looks over to the hungover man, Iuni she gives him a shy smile. Then playing nice with her new companions, Sarenrae welcomes the help of all the good gods, because evil is all around, and good much be ever vigilant, or fall for the traps and tricks of the evil. Thanks to her mercies, we can endure.
Now Janira tell us more of where we are heading?
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Where it all began. It sounds interesting, I have to admit it.
Although the invitation caused his expectation to rise, Arthur's mood suddenly worsens as soon as he sees the rather ordinary, and perhaps even a tad plebeian facade of the Pig's Paunch. Faded sign, I should start to lower my expectations...
As soon as he enters the Pig's Paunch, Arthur's nostrils are filled with the scents of sweat, stale tobacco and leftover food. The Pathfinder wrinkles his nose and puts a perfumed handkerchief on his mouth and nose.
His eyes frantically darting around, Arthur suddenly spots someone familiar. Kreighton Shane, the Master of Scrolls. Interesting fellow, that one.
Putting two and two together quite easily, Arthur slowly, and perhaps a little ostantatiously walks toward the elf. The Pathfinder then rapidly glances at the others around him before sitting down. He listens to Shane's speech thoroughly.
The Confirmation. I was wondering when would they get to realize my gifts. Fortunately, it didn't take too long..., thinks Arthur to himself with a confident smirk while he listens.
When Janira Gavix makes her appearance, Arthur can't help but look at her with an aura of superiority. Halflings in his country are usually house servants. Associating halflings with servitude was not something culturate, and Arthur learned to distrust common misconception long ago, when he strived to make an impression on the eccentic members of the Taldan bearded class. Anyway, something like a subtle hint of his previous prejudices still emerged from his facial expressions.
---
When Janira is done exposing the plan and the mission, and Kreighton Shane takes his leave, Arthur sighs and turns to his fellow Pathfinders. "Greetings, fellow Pathfinders”. Arthur smirks. “I’m Arthur Ockham, Lord of Westex and upcoming Pathfinder field agent. This is mine own second exp'rience as a Pathfinder.”
His eyes gravitate toward Iuni and Forvenniel. “Enchant’d, mine own ladies” he says charmingly, trying to kiss their heads. From his expression, it’s pretty clear that Arthur knows that his attitude will result strang and even weird for the ladies. Also, he has a confident half-smile on his face. A smile which could easily inspire a punch in the teeth.
“Anon, let’s get to the plan”
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Janira patiently listens to each would-be-Pathfinder in turn before answering. "As to the circumstances of the event: it was a full moon each time the gillmen entered this cave. After reviewing my mission reports personally, Master Shaine believes this is no coincidence. Thus you have been called together just a day before the next full moon. Forvenniel should be able to answer your other questions, Sejiri. Her knowledge of the area is one of the reasons for her inclusion in this mission.
"That is a difficult question to answer, Kembe. Perhaps we should all take inventory of our equipment together. And the journey will be quite short, a little over a day and a half on foot."
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When Janira talks of an inventory, Iuni replies All I need is the guiding light of the Dawnflower.
Before adding, Besides The Birth of Light and Truth She holds up a well-worn leather covered book, and my holy symbol, I really only have food and water. And Sarenrae can provide that as well when in need.
It's clear the slightly built cleric won't be carrying too much extra gear.
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"I've got some food. And Percy. He's sitting outside at the doorway. Not much of a mutt, but he does in a pinch. Mother was always good with animals and taught me a bit about them, so I trained him myself."
Aside from that, the elf-blooded woman wears some uncomfortable looking leather armour and carries a druid kit.
"I normally go by wagon if I can." she admits. "I was sick as a child and never gained much strength. Of course Uncle Val says that a strong mind is worth more than a strong back."
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Kembe nods slowly as everyone reveals their equipment, he unshoulders his backpack and pulls out some rope and torches "I've got some supplies here to help, but it seems a hook, hammer and spikes would help finish it."
He turns to Sejiri "Don't be so modest, lets see what's in that pack of yours you guard so closely..."
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"Not much, to be honest," Sejiri chuckles. "Remember how long it took me to save for that suit of armor? That's most of the value right there. And here we've got my sling-staff, and no shortage of bullets, plus a knife, a shield, and some camping and outdoor supplies. When I heard we would be going on a mission soon, I would've bought some of those chemical flasks, full of acid and fire and such. I didn't have enough, though, they're surprisingly expensive. If anyone could lend me one, I'd be a dab hand with it, and I could pay you for it when we come back alive."
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"You're Uncle Val was a wise man, Forvenniel! And remember, Iuni, the gods help those who help themselves. Faith is necessary for life, true, but we still have to live our lives actively and as best we can.
"I see Kembe brought a light source and Norril has both climbing gear and some alchemical weapons--all very important resources for any adventure!
"Now, let's get to know each other!" Janira pulls out a large leather-bound journal and opens it on the table. “Before we set out, we should all get to know each other and review our plan. After all, the most important factors that determine whether an expedition will be a success are cooperation and preparation! I’ll go first!
"I'm from Eastgate and have six younger brothers and sisters. Our father is a porter who delivers purchases to stores' customers, but I always wanted to be an adventurer! My family all worship Desna, but we respect other religions too. Everybody needs a god or goddess to watch over them!
"At first, I wanted to travel and see the world, but then Master Shaine got hold of my imagination, and now I help him discover and preserve knowledge. One day, I’ll have a discovery published in the Chronicles!
“Now, tell me all about all of yourselves!”
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"As I said, I am Forvenniel Anwamanë." says the elf, slightly shyly.
"My mother, Oleander, is a member of the society. But she is always off doing missions and stuff. She used to be more fun, but a couple of years ago started to get more serious and is deeply involved with the Silver Crusade these days."
She pauses, gazing towards the windows. "I'm more like uncle Valandil in many ways. He's a wizard and can move things with his mind. As for me. I love to travel, and go where the moon leads. I guess I got my love for plants and animals from my mum, my love of dance from my time in Varisia, and my love for knowledge from my uncle."
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At Forvenniel's mention of fire hurting animals, Iuni raises an eye-brow. How else am I too make sacrifices to the Dawnflower without this fire that burns inside me, this could be a problem. I must try my best to be careful with my gifts.
Iuni also raises an eye-brow to Janira's comment about the place faith plays in life. How can I do anything but through faith that the Dawnflower will protect me, I think she doesn't understand how much the gods guide everything we do, even Desna, that lets luck play a part.
She keeps her comments to herself, preferring to discuss the things of greater importance in life in more quiet, one-on-one times.
Well, I'm Iuni Al-Ahdal, I owe all I am first to the Dawnflower and then to the Pathfinder Society. I was born in Casmaron, far from here. A slave from birth; a traveling cleric of Sarenrae, Zeshkitan Pllumm, a good Society man; freed me both physically and spiritually bonds. He's all the family I have left. She leaves it at that trying hard to hold back on dominating the conversation.
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Sejiri deftly catches each vial as they are thrown, bowing once again. "Thank you, friend Norril. You will not be sorry."
"Anyway, my name is Sejiri. I come from what was a small village in the Minatan Archipelago. It was razed by a secretive order, which, as a child and a survivor, I was indoctrinated into. I spent the next some years following orders and doing things I deeply regret, now that I understand them more. Such understanding was forced into me with the help of Kembe here, who was sent to find me and has been my companion and friend ever since. I felt staying in Tian Xia would not be the best idea after that, so we came to the Inner Sea in search of work. The Society seemed a good place to earn one's keep while furthering their knowledge and abilities." Sejiri exhales deeply upon finishing his tale.
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Arthur smiles and scrunches his nose when Janira proposes the idea of sharing information about their equipment. What a…Mph, I suppose I should comply.
Arthur shrugs and, in spite of his own preference, he puts his backpack on the table and starts to delve into it with a thoughtful expression. “Let’s see what do we have here…Mmh…I have some caltrops, a journal, some ink, everything needed to take some notes, and…nothing more. I prefer to travel light.” Arthur smiles confidently, then stuffs everything back into his backpack. “Will we need trail rations, as far as you can tell, Janira?” The idea doesn’t sound very attracting to him.
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Get to know each other? Mph, that makes sense. Last time we barely talked to one another, and it wasn’t good… Arthur orders a glass of wine, if possible, with all the savoir-faire of a rich gentleman. Then he listens to his companions’ introductions. Interesting stories, but they all share something. They all see the Society as a way to make some profit, of whichever nature that profit may be…Oh, and they all have in commom their low resources outside of the Society….
Arthur sighs, to give the false impression that he distastes to talk about himself. But his grin reveals that he actually loves it. “As I said, I’m Arthur Ockham, Lord of Westex, in Cassomir, Taldor. I’m a member of the bearded class, but the rich and opulent feasts of the nobility got me tired of them pretty soon. So I started to travel around Golarion”. Arthur sips his wine. “I’ve studied at the University of Lepistadt, in Ustalav, where I also learned how to use this thin blade o’mine…”, he says, touching the finely carved hilt of his rapier, “then I moved to Varisia, Cheliax…and many other places. I joined the Society because I wanted something interesting. Something exciting. I wanted to have stories to tell, at those feasts. I want to change the world, not only to see it. And I believe the Society can allow me to develop my natural gifts while pursuing ends that, all in all, are not so bad, such as documenting the history of our world and exploring long forgotten places. I don’t know if the Society will just be a parenthesis in my life or something more, but I guess I’ll find out soon”. He shrugs. “Anyway, I’m pleased to meet you. I hope our collaboration will be mutually beneficial”.
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The dark skinned man listens quietly and attentively as the other 5 of the group relay their stories, he is especially attentive to Sejiri It makes me proud he sees me as a friend now, we have grown greatly since it all started.
He finally speaks up when the others have finished and all eyes turn on him "I am Dee Kembe, you may call me Kembe." He clears his throat a bit before continuing.
"The land of my birth was Jalmarey, an island to the southeast. I was stolen away when I was young. Stolen to be sold like a young bull or horse. I was saved. An honorable family of Halflings felt I was in their life path, so they purchase me and make me one with their family. They had lost their son, we were the same age, they filled a hole in their family with me, and I with them. They helped to teach me my heritage, sent me to train in the ways of my people. When I finished I went looking. I found him. Our life paths are now one once again." A smile breaks his lips as he glances at Sejiri but quickly returns to his stoic nature as he looks back at Janira.
"Oh, I also have rope..." He pulls out a significant length of hemp rope from his pack.
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"That's such a sad story, Iuni. Although the ending does sound a lot happier for you!
"And you three have the heart of it, Norril, Forvenniel and Sejiri: knowledge! Oh, the things we can learn as Pathfinders!
"Lord Arthur, those are some mighty aspirations! I hope you do change our world for the better!
“Now, on to the details of the mission at hand,” Janira says with an eager grin. “After reviewing my mission reports personally, Master Shaine believes it is no coincidence that each time they entered the caves it was during a full moon, so it is also no coincidence that you have been called here now, just a day before the moon is full again. We both believe that tomorrow night is our best chance to find out why these caves are important and what exactly the gillmen are doing in there.
“The caves we’ll be travelling to lie under the base of the Kortos Mounts. We’ll need to spend every minute of daylight possible to reach the caves by foot, crossing over the Cairnlands, taking the paths to Diobel, and finally making our way through the wilderness. With any luck we won’t run into any of the local inhabitants. Once in the caves, we’ll need to work together to explore and determine whether any gillman are present or have been recently. Keep an eye out for any other clues that might hint at the caves’ significance, too.”
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"Ahh the moon, the mystical moon, the magical moon. The moon sees the Gillmen, but she won't tell me. Not yet. Let us gracefully glide onward. Stopping only for essential supplies and paper."
She gives Norril a slightly worried look as he asks about accompanying her. "Maybe if Iuni came too.."
I'm sure he won't try anything with a priest of fire along.
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"There's a merchant down the road, a good fellow. I bought my journal from him. He also sells several useful tools for writing. His name was Mr. Delington, if I remember correctly", Arthur says to Forvenniel, trying to gain some trust among the group members.
"Also, I have lots of money to spend on equiment. My last mission was a success. I still don't know what to buy, though. Would any of you seasoned adventurers be willing to come with me so that I can benefit of some precious advice?"
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If you roll 21 or higher, you may ask for more information.
Round surprise
Effects none
- Iuni -
- Arthur -
- Red -
- Green -
- Janira -
- Forvenniel -
- Norril -
- Sejiri -
- Kembe -
As the party progresses deeper into the forest, the trees towering overhead begin to shield most of what remains of the day’s sun and the vegetation beneath grows denser. Janira pauses a moment and pulls out an intricate silver compass emblazoned with the Pathfinder Society logo: the Glyph of the Open Road. “I received this wayfinder when I successfully completed my Confirmation. Should we be successful on our journey, you will get your own as well.”
She flips open the device and holds it in front of her; the initials J. L. are engraved into the inside of the device’s lid. After studying the compass inside for a moment, she remarks, “We’re on the right path. We need to keep heading northwest past those large rocks up ahead.”
But before you can start moving again, a dead tree falls to the forest floor, startling all sorts of creatures. In their fear, some start to attack your group.
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"Venemous Spider swarms! By the moons pale light, you won't be able to use your weapons on these. Try that cursed fire and acid you brought!" calls out Forvenniel.
"We may be best trying to just avoid them and outrun the swarms..."
She summons a bright flare of light to try and distract the swarms and then backs carefully away from them.