Absalom has stood strong against attackers for nearly 5,000 years, and the land around it remains littered with the siege castles of failed invaders. However, centuries have passed since Absalom last repelled a siege in earnest, and a new warlord has gathered a supernatural army and ghastly allies that will test the city walls.
Easy: The PCs help establish potent abjurations that protect them in addition to protecting the city. Once during the adventure, when an opponent’s attack roll to confirm a critical hit succeeds by 4 or less, the group can activate this reward to negate the confirmation of the critical hit.
Average: When using the reward above, the group can instead turn any confirmed critical hit into a normal hit.
Hard: In place of the reward above, the group can force an opponent to reroll an attack once during the adventure.
Evacuation Notice - Party beat the easy DC.
Easy: Once the people reach the safety of the walls, they regret their initial stubbornness and become thankful. The PCs can draw upon this goodwill once during the adventure: one PC can reroll a failed Bluff, Diplomacy, or Intimidate check and use the new result.
Easy: The PCs find that the army consists of various kinds of creatures stitched together from demonic flesh: constructs, oozes, and undead.
Average: The PCs notice both that the army’s field commanders are all minotaurs and that there are true demons among the army’s ranks.
Hard: Each PC gains a single piece of +1 bane ammunition (such as an arrow, bolt, shuriken, or sling bullet). The bane weapon special ability is keyed to a creature type (and subtype, if applicable) of the PC’s choice.
Strange Things - party beat the hard DC.
Hard: Once during the adventure, when the group encounters one or more undead opponents, the group can activate this reward to grant the PCs a +4 bonus on their initiative checks for that encounter.
Catching a Spy - party beat the hard DC.
Hard: Once during the adventure, when the group encounters one or more construct opponents, the group can activate this reward to grant the PCs a +4 bonus on their initiative checks for that encounter.
House Objective Boons:
Dark Archive: Pathfinder agents begin broadcasting illuminated signals that confuse the Black Echelon agents. Once during the adventure, the PCs can activate this benefit grant all undead creatures present the confused condition for 1 round. If an undead creature confused in this way attacks a PC, it takes a penalty on its attack rolls equal to half the group’s APL.
The Exchange: A cache of pristine and deadly armaments becomes available. At the beginning of one encounter, the PCs can activate this benefit to treat the enhancement bonuses of all their weapons as 2 higher for the duration of the encounter. Treat the effective enhancement bonus of mundane weapons as +0.
Grand Lodge: Absalom’s flag rises over Fort Tempest and emboldens the city’s defenders. At the beginning of one encounter, the PCs can activate this benefit to gain a number of temporary hit points equal to three times their APL (minimum 6 temporary hit points); these last until the end of the encounter.
Liberty’s Edge: Freed slaves cast off their chains to join Absalom’s defense. At the beginning of one encounter, the PCs can activate this benefit to increase their land speed by 10 feet for the duration of the encounter.
Scarab Sages: The powerful construct Gulgamodh awakens and seeks out invaders to strike down with its arcane cannon. The group gains one free use of the Aid Token’s Allied Offensive benefit (multiply the additional damage dealt by 150%) that the PCs can activate at their discretion.
Silver Crusade: The faithful of Sarenrae return to Absalom in force to heal embattled defenders’ wounds. The group gains one free use of the Aid Token’s Burst of Healing benefit that the PCs can activate at their discretion.
Sovereign Court: Members of Absalom’s nobility rally the defenders and direct their household guards to shore up key areas. The group gains one free use of the Aid Token’s Timely Inspiration benefit that the PCs can activate at their discretion.
Yagi subtly points out the thin outline of a pentagram necklace hidden under the lady's shirt.
Yagi Mi, my lady. It is a pleasure to meet you, oo. It may come as a shock, but my friends and I have some bad news for you about your renovations. They are about to be overrun by marauders, ers.
Diplomacy, Aid Another:1d20 - 1 ⇒ (4) - 1 = 3
Marauders, ers., he adds unnecessarily.
Having said his piece, Yagi looks to the party for someone more diplomatic.
I suspect Intimidate might be the operative skill this time.
Female Gnome Warpriest 4 | AC 17/12/16 | HP 35/35 | F+6, R+2,W+7 | CMD 15 | Speed 20’ | Init+7, Perception+5, Sense Motive+8 | Lowlight vision.
Perception 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 4 = 19
Perrine also notices the pentagram. She shakes her head and clucks her tongue almost soundlessly. ”The tengu is right, if your house doesn’t help defend the city the lawless hoodlums from the uncivilized lands are going to take the city. No telling what chaos they will wreak on every civilized city dweller.”
Zailus steps in behind the other two, taking a pose that is certainly intended to draw attention to her. She glances at the necklace as Yagi points it out and takes a second to think about what it might mean.
Can Zailus take 10 on an untrained knowledge (religion) check to recognize Asmodeus' holy symbol?
If she can:
Imeeditaely recognizing the famous symbol of the patron deity of Cheliax, she gives a small smile and slides up next to Perrine. "My, my that is a lovely pendant you have there! If I know my dieties, though I don't know them that well, that's a holy symbol of Asmodeus! Do you follow the Prince of Hell? Doesn't he normally take a dislike to people renegading on contracts and agreements?"
Diplomacy, Aid:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23
If she can't: Know religion, untrained:1d20 + 0 ⇒ (12) + 0 = 12
That was obviously meant to say "shirt", but it seems you figured it out.
Annalia covers the pendant nervously. "Oh this? That's just something to remember home by.", she coughs slightly, and some colour appears in her pale cheeks.
"We did promise our help, yes. Perhaps it would be appropriate to keep our word. And your gnome friend is right. We can't letthis place be taken over by some random rabble.", she sivers, and raises her index finger. "However, I have one request. Promise me on your life and pride that you will speak to nobody about the amulet.", the previously raised index finger appears on her mouth in a 'hush' gesture. "It's not necessarily to turn one's personal beliefs into a topic for public discussion."
Zailus gives a high, tinkling laugh at the woman's concern. "I swear, if people are going to judge you over something as small as your beliefs, then you're better off without them!"
But as you can see," she coninues, gesturing at her revealing dress, with a few small songbirds with colorful tails woven through out, "I'm not one for hiding anything!"
She settles down a little, though, and in a smaller voice adds, "But I'm also not one for spreading rumors and especially if they're the kind that don't make people happy. So the fact you're carrying something of home certainly won't be leaving my lips." She returns the hush gesture with a wink, before leaning in clsoer and aksing with a knowing look, "Though, if you happen to have heard of any men with a bit of money and more... unusual tastes in partners, I'm all ears!"
Female N Wayang Rogue/Mesmerist 2 | HP: 17/17 | AC: 18 (15 Tch, 14 Fl) | CMB: -1, CMD: 13 (9 Fl) | F: +3, R: +9, W: +2 | Init: +5 | Perc: +6 (+2 to avoid surprise), SM +0 | Speed 20ft | Active conditions: none
Vari nods to the woman from her spot in the shadows towards the back. The wayang hadn't yet revealed herself, and this gesture may even have gone unseen--which suits her just fine--but she would still want the woman to know her secrets are safe, just in case.
Annalia expresses her gratitude and promises to send her men to help in fending off the siege. While she still attempts to cover the pendant during your stay, she doesn't seem overly inconvenienced by the fact that you have noticed the trinket.
Several streets away, you find the al-Hadir residence. The guards are dressed in Garund fashin - loose clothing that could hide any number of weapons. They showcase their scimitars proudly on their belts, however, and put their hands on the hilts in a calm manner as you approach.
The estate itself is fitting into the neighbourhood, but the style influence is clear. Secured circular tents form the guard posts themselves, and they keep water in nearby sets of pottery.
Having introduced yourselves, the guards let you pass. "A proper battle, you say? Hope you have a convincing case.", one of them notes as they let you pass, and some of the others start sherpening their blades with a hint of anticipation and smiles on their faces.
Your host, Naadhira al-Hadir, meets you among a circular, roofless set of columns. Sarenrae's angelic ankh is prominent in the middle of the circle, carefully tiled underneath your feet.
She stands near a small table and offers tea or coffee from the nearby samovars.
"May Dawnflower's Mercy bless you on this day, dear guests. I am Naadhira al-Hadir, owner of this humble abode.", she bows lightly to greet you. "How may I help you?"
Zailus blinks fursiously for a few seconds, almost not believing the scene she is seeing before her. Recovering slightly, she tosses back her head, slightly before doing a grandiose bow. "We're here representing the Lady Glorina and the Pathfinder Society. We heard rumor that you had pledged your forces in aid of the city." She then in a mocking (of the rumor) tone, continues, "But surely that must be a blatant lie, Your forces seem ready, and more than anything you seem to openly follow Sarenrae, and it would be inconceivable that one of the Dawnflower would not be mobilizing their forces against the undead army outside the gates!"
Female N Wayang Rogue/Mesmerist 2 | HP: 17/17 | AC: 18 (15 Tch, 14 Fl) | CMB: -1, CMD: 13 (9 Fl) | F: +3, R: +9, W: +2 | Init: +5 | Perc: +6 (+2 to avoid surprise), SM +0 | Speed 20ft | Active conditions: none
Vari speaks up for once, making her presence known. "Yeah, the guards we passed on our way in sure seemed anxious to help; they look to be itching to use those beautiful blades!"
Female Gnome Warpriest 4 | AC 17/12/16 | HP 35/35 | F+6, R+2,W+7 | CMD 15 | Speed 20’ | Init+7, Perception+5, Sense Motive+8 | Lowlight vision.
”A noble family as well known as yours would clearly participate in the defense of the city. Your guards looked like they could cut down an auroch with those swords.”
Naadhira seems taken aback. "Oh... That's already happening? We were not summoned yet. I was wondering about all the commotion in town."
She calls one on one of her guards. "Abbas! Did we get a missive today?", the man shakes his head. "No, Madam. Are we heading out?"
Naadhira nods. "Yes. Ready the men. I'll inform my sons."
The man smiles and bows, then promptly leaves for the guard housing.
"I apologise. We've been waiting for a courier to summon us to the battle. Due to historical reasons, I didn't want to promenade around the city with three dozen warriors. I suppose the courier was intercepted. We'll be there right away. Thank you."
Added the Exchange bonus into the spoiler in the header.
Zailus brings a hand to her throat and gives a small gasp of surprise. "Oh, my! No wonder you haven't started mobilizing! If you never got the message how could you be expected to act! We'll make sure to warn the leaders that their messages might not be getting through!"
The combined strength of the Muckruckers and the Grand Lodge have broken through the Black Echelon’s defenses and retaken Fort Tempest. Absalom’s flag flies over the fortress once more, encouraging the city’s defenders.
Table GMs, the Grand Lodge mission has been completed, and that faction’s special condition on page 10 is in effect. No new groups may start the Grand Lodge mission; those groups already in progress may complete the mission and report the success towards one of the other missions.
As you arrive at the Tullians' residence, you are struck with the realisation that nobody's home. No guards at the gate, no valuables visible in sight, but a LOT of footsteps in the dusty road in front of the gate, including tracks made by several carts.. All of these headed towards the docks. Following the tracks, you stumble upon a toppled cart. There are several half-rotten bodies lying around next to a few dead and torn-torn apart guards. Barrels from the cart have long stopped rolling down the hill, and hit obstacles on their way. The cart itself has a busted wheel and not in a usable condition.
You hurry into the docks, and arrive only to find undead bodies scattered around, at least two guards unconscious or dead, and three finely-dressed humans in the water, struggling for their lives to stay on the surface.
"Help us!", one of them shouts as hey see you. "Please!"
As the man finishes his sentence, his wife starts to lose the fight with the water and seems like she will drown if nothing is done.
Map updated - please see slide 10. We will do this in initiative. Go!
Led from Misery Row by agents of Liberty’s Edge, most of Absalom’s slaves have cast off their chains to contribute to Absalom’s defense.
Table GMs, the Liberty’s Edge faction’s special condition on page 10 is in effect.
----------
The gathering clouds momentarily part as a beam of sunlight shines upon the Ascendant Court, heralding the return of Sarenrae’s holy warriors and the arrival of a small host of celestial guardians. These reinforcements rally alongside the paladin Ollysta Zadrian before dispersing to aid Absalom.
Table GMs, the Silver Crusade faction’s special condition on page 10 is in effect.
-----------
Warriors wearing the colors of a dozen or more noble houses course through Absalom’s streets, lending their strength directly to the First Guard. Numerous well-known aristocrats—previously thought to have fled before someone convinced them otherwise—appear at major sites and intersections to help coordinate the war effort and rally the citizens.
Table GMs, the Sovereign Court faction’s special condition on page 10 is in effect.
Zailus also picks up her heels, before deciding that they were too difficult to run in and instead kicks them off her feet. She around the backside of the house and then out a little further than the little halfling, stopping in front of the docks. She strips off some of the jewelry that's be liable to fall off in the water, getting ready to dive in if needed.
Umm I know I'm not really one to talk, but could we possibly bot/delay Vari and let everyone move again? It's been well over 48 hours since the post asking for actions and this is a time sensitive special...
If we can move again:
Zailus cracks her neck and glances at the others. "You're going to help the other two right? I've gonna help the... mature lady over here!" She then rushes down the docks, gives a dismayed look at the water and her dress before jumping in. She grabs ahold of the matronly woman and tries to pull her ashore.
Not sure what kind of actions diving into water, grabbing someone and swimming to the shore would take, but Zailus will do all she can. Swim:1d20 - 1 ⇒ (9) - 1 = 8
I'm noever going to make the DC for that perception
You have arrived at an opportune time. The nobles seem to have been in the water for a while now, and they are slowly losing the fight with the waves. The elderly woman disappears beneath the surface...
Yagi ponders as he runs whether to stop and summon an aquatic creature for assistance, but decides against it in favor of direct action. He plunges into the surf
Female Gnome Warpriest 4 | AC 17/12/16 | HP 35/35 | F+6, R+2,W+7 | CMD 15 | Speed 20’ | Init+7, Perception+5, Sense Motive+8 | Lowlight vision.
Perrine moves beside Vari, and touches her with her Lucky Prescence ability, allowing Vari to roll twice on her next skill check! ”I can hold that rope if you want to go in after them!”
These swim checks, guys... If you throw the rope to Yagi Mi, it's fine. But for now, not so much.
Zailus and Yagi Mi jump into the water to help the citizens from drowning. By pure stroke of luck, they manage to not drown themselves during the process. The nobles stay above the surface, but make no progress towards the shore for now.
A cacophonous cloud of debris and dust rises from the Precipice Quarter following the Scarab Sages’ activation ritual. An immense suit of animated plate armor rises from the wreckage, towers over the surrounding buildings, and declares in a metallic voice, “Gulgamodh stands ready.”
Table GMs, the Scarab Sages special condition on page 10 is in effect.
Having dealt with the chaos that ensued from the Black Echelon’s attack, the Pathfinders return to the Grand Lodge. You can boost any Aid Token in your possession once, and this is an excellent opportunity to pass it to another group.
-----End Part 2-----
The sound of brass signal horns echoes across Absalom, warning the city that the enemy onslaught has begun. Sergeants of the First Guard shout warnings to attend the walls, when suddenly a second warning sounds. A messenger brings news of a second attack: “An enemy fleet is approaching from the south!” A strange mist is rising in the Flotsam Graveyard, and dozens of ships with tattered sails approach Absalom’s harbor with long-dead marines on board.
Back at the Grand Lodge, Master of Swords Marcos Farabellus addresses the Pathfinders: “You and the factions you represent have greatly helped our city; however, the worst is still to come, and Absalom needs our help! We must fight the enemy on land and at sea. Those of you who choose to bolster Absalom’s defenses against the demon-flesh army attacking from the Cairnlands to the north, report to Captain of the First Guard, Rothos of House Vastille. Those of you who choose to fight the undead armada, report to Captain Sevana Kinhan of the Wave Riders.”
Female N Wayang Rogue/Mesmerist 2 | HP: 17/17 | AC: 18 (15 Tch, 14 Fl) | CMB: -1, CMD: 13 (9 Fl) | F: +3, R: +9, W: +2 | Init: +5 | Perc: +6 (+2 to avoid surprise), SM +0 | Speed 20ft | Active conditions: none
Vari continues to the end of the dock and is momentarily torn between the nobles, and Yagi-Mi. He's a bird, though. Birds don't drown, right? Their feathers keep them up, I think.
She tosses the rope out to the noble farthest out. "Grab the rope; I'll pull you in!"
With the combined effort of everyone involved, the drowning nobles are back on dry land.
"Thank you! We're in your debt. The undead chased us from the estate and we jumped into the water, assuming they can't swim. Well - they couldn't, but neither could we, it seems. These puffy clothes make it complicated.", the man thanks you for your help, and looks at his formerly 'puffy' attire. "The undead killed our guards, but moved on when we jumped into the water. Good thing you arrived when you did. We'd be crab food if you came a few moments later. Thanks ag..."
The man's appreciation is interrupted by the sound of signal horns. The Society calls you back into the Grand Lodge. Before realising it, a thick fog emerges from the Flotsam Graveyard to the south. Immediately, another signal horn can be heard. The saved nobles look at the dock, and notice the ships emerging from the mist. "Well, that's that escape route closed. Let's go and barricade ourselves in the estate. We'll send what help we can, Pathfinders."
With that said and done, you hastily move to the Grand Lodge, where Marcos Farabellus addresses you. The agents in the hall start discussing their next move with their respective groups and coordinators...
You have two options here. You either go help out on the walls to the Cairnlands, or go help defending from the undead fleet coming from Flotsam. What will it be?
You move towards Absalom's with haste. While moving through the Petal District, a brass horn sounds a warning signal in the distance. A moment later, a Captain of the First Guard shouts for her force to ready for impact - a command that guards relay up and down the wall. A dark swarm of thousands of strangely misshapen creatures charges, throwing themselves against the stone walls and clambering over each other to reach the top. Despite many volleys of arrows raining down and boiling oil poured on them, the stubborn fiend-flesh creatures press on. In multiple places along the ramparts, soldiers of the First Guard have to draw their swords and engage the creatures in melee. Here and there, groups of nightmarish creatures spill through the line of defense.
Above the gates, you see several creatures that passed through the first line of defense. Time to act, Pathfinders!
The slimy, shifting masses on the walls are of humanoid shape, but are made out of what appears to be some form of sticky rope or cloth. Their bodies lurch jerkily, struggling to maintain their horrid form.
These oddly shaped figures are ectoplasmic undead. The material they are made from is drawn from the Ethereal Plane and they serve as a vessel for unfortunate, bound souls.
They are known to pass through solid objects such as walls and doors, leaving a thin foil of residual matter on the surface. This foil disappears after a minute or so.
You may ask an additional question about them for every multiplier of 5 by which you beat the DC
Right. Well, this took a while... AGAIN. What a wild ride. I can honestly say I am not proud of my performance on these forums in the last two months. I'll finish the games I am running and will take a break (with the exception of one table). I apologise that you caught me in a combination of real life bumps and burnout moods.
Good luck with the characters in the future!
If there is a problem with the sheets, let me know. I'll fix it as soon as possible. Ping this thread to let me know, however. Private messages are kind of hidden with the new site design, and I might miss it. As an alternative, use the google hangout I set up. Link is in the handouts document.
Yeah I skimmed over all of then yesterday and it's wrong on all sheets. Should be one. There's nothing to apologise for. That's my bad. Running some errands at the moment but I'll send revised sheets afterwards.
