[PFC] GM Granta's #6-18: From Under Ice (4) (Inactive)

Game Master Granta

“Dalun claimed to want peace and trade. I foolishly believed those claims myself, up until the last moon. They sent envoys to talk of trade, but as we were about to let them in, we were attacked by winter wolves, ice trolls, and a dozen Jadwiga soldiers.” He spits on the ground before continuing. “We slew enough of them to scare them off, but lost many good warriors. I just wished we had captured that Jadwiga witch while she was here, but she vanished into the night.”

"Wolves, trolls, Jadwiga. Witches, not Dalun", Lini states abruptly. She stares at the horizon, toward the land of Irrisen and its winter. "We must still go."

"I fail to see how your quarrels affect us. I do not mean to be curt, but we have business in Irrisen and must be going." Kyra's unusual rudeness giving away her feelings of intense discomfort for being in the middle of what appears to be a bandit camp.

“It is the witches' treachery and violence that affects all of us. My warriors demand retribution. We will go with you to Dalun, acting as your caravan guards. Once outside the city’s walls, we’ll attack. After that, you can continue on your way without the threat of Dalun at your backs.”

(I've stopped trying to roll sense motives... a -1 modifier just doesn't help! =))

Alas, entering paladin-mode... sorry in advance!

Jayori frowns.

"Perhaps you have grievances. Perhaps they do to. Your two sides of been at war for so long, I am certain either could dredge up some wrong or other at will." He says. "But you can not properly hear a song listening only with one ear."

"We are not here to help you with your grudges, or they with theirs. That path leads nowhere."

He looks thoughtful for a moment. "If you would like our assistance to investigate this attack, or to reopen negotiations, we could perhaps assist. But we will not serve as your distraction to commit yet more such grievances. If that is all you want, then we shall part company and be on our way."

Not sure if its possible to talk him down here? But certainly will try. Do not intend of leading a raid on the town we're supposed to be negotiating with!

If it helps: Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28

A breath of relief escapes Kyra's lips as one of her companions supports her cause. She attempts to return the favor. "You must learn to forgive. Answering bloodshed with more bloodshed will never result in peace for your people. If you will forgive the cliche, an eye for an eye makes the world blind."

I must agree with Jayori. He is obviously wise as his words speak with great wisdom. Let us investigate the matter.

Gadget, at a loss for words, stays silent and hopes that everyone can come to an agreement.

No aiding. She's too shy in these kind of situations.

Halvor eventually sees reason, "We will accompany you, and see the truth of Dalun. If they indeed desire peace, perhaps we can trade with them."

Halvor offers you two potions of resist energy (cold). "Please accept these gifts, and stay with us as honored guests. In the morning, we will all travel to Dalun and speak with their leader."

Jayori is relieved that Halvor seems willing to listen to reason!

Well, that went better then expected!

"Perhaps there his hope for both sides yet." He says, giving the ulfen man a smile. "Your foresight will be remembered."

Gadget gives a quiet nod and lets out a smile at the resolution.

At Halvor's decision, Lini just nods slightly, and heads out looking for a spot for sleeping. She finds a somewhat protected spot under a tree in the village, and curls up with Droogami for the night.

I suppose that is the best we are going to get... "Thank you for choosing to pursue peace and for your gifts. There is too much bloodshed in this world already."

Exhausted from the tense situation, Kyra will seek out whatever shelter is available and retire for the night.

The journey to Dalun is uneventful and short. Stone cliffs mark the border of Irrisen on the northern bank. Chill winds send flurries of snow over the edge, landing in the river and on the grassy bank of the southern shore where maple trees fight the icy doom of Irrisen’s endless winter. A long, narrow cart path winds its way up the side of the cliff from the docks to Dalun’s iron gates.

As you approach the gate and Halvor sees its weak defenses, his face turns red and knuckles go white around the haft of his weapon, ”To approach in peace, after all the witches have done . . .” He looks at his men, whose rage is even less controlled, then looks at the Pathfinders.

During the trip, Kyra approaches Jayori and waits for a moment of privacy. "Jayori, I don't believe Halvor to be cowed by kind words. We may have to use more... forceful means..." She does her best to inform the others as well.

Seeing the mess that is about to take place, she steps forward with her hand on her scimitar. "We agreed to an envoy of peace. We will not be the deliverers of a raid party. You gave your word that you would speak with their leader on trade."

Again, listen to the wise words of my companions, please. Zax will stand a bit closer to Halvor, however he will not place a hand on his weapon.

Unkind words then? That's Zax's job! =)

Sense Motive: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (3) - 1 = 2

Jayori is blissfully unaware of Halvor's state of mind.

"I do not seek to cow him." He replies, at Kyra's concern. "A wise and prudent person is not thrown into confusion by reproach."

He grins. "Now we just hope he is both wise and prudent."

He will support Kyra's words this time, as she supported his back in Whiterook.

Diplomacy (aid) to Kyra: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18

"We do not seek to change our course now, my friend." He says, giving Halvor a companionable clap on the shoulder. "We are on the wrong side of the river to be burning bridges now."

"You were challenged, they lost. You are alpha. Now city-dweller barking to finish it", Lini answers to Halvor's anger. Her focus is again not on the buildings, but on the unnatural cold creeping on the maples. She looks concerned as she just mutters: "Irrisen..."

Halvor and his men slowly calm down and relax as Kyra, Jayori and Lini speak reason. The guards question your for several minutes, but then let everyone in without any problems.

The grey stone buildings of Dalun stand huddled together, as if the stonework was attempting to withstand the cold. Snowy cobblestone streets lead to a tall white spire in the center of town, its sharp point piercing the blue sky; an icy sheen covers the surface, glistening in the muted sunlight.

Colorfully dressed merchants stand out against the blue, grey and white clothing worn by the citizens of Irrisen, who trot through the white cobblestone streets with immediacy. The occasional ice troll lumbers along, giving non-Jadwiga humans a disdainful snarl.

As you enter the town, Haltani speaks up, ”There are several prominent merchants who might be able to help you, but I would speak to the jeweler Alexei Kartov first. Dalun also has ore, furs and witch-tree seeds in abundance.”

“I have business of my own, but after you conclude your affairs, I suggest asking Baroness Nadya for permission to travel farther north into her lands. And please give her my good wishes.”

"Many thanks." Jayori will say to Haltani, with a smile, and slight bow. "This jeweler you speak of? Is that who we should be turning over the letter of trade?"

Not sure why we'd be looking for a jeweler! Or are we attempting to set up trade with multiple folks?

"Where will find this Baroness Nadya?" He adds, looking around puzzled. "Perhaps an introduction from you would help?"

He will also ask Halvor. "Who was it that you attempted to negotiate your peace with?"

Gadget scratches her head, unsure of what to do. "Golly, where should we start? The jeweler?"

Setting up trade, yes.

"Well then, let us play merchant then." Jayori says, with a grin.

"Fine jewelry seems a fine place to start!"

I assume we go to it then! Not sure if we were after resources of a particular type, but jewelry is as good a place as any... though the tree seeds sound uniquely interesting too

Sure, sounds fine to me.

Relieved that crisis seems to have been averted yet again, Kyra tries to relax for the remainder of the trip.

"Haltani, thank you for your support. We would not have made it here if not for your skills."

She then moves to the side and waits for her companions to prepare to move out.

"Oh! Jewelry! Certainly. I have some of my own here somewhere, or did I give them to you Droogami? Well, anyway, let's go see what kind he has to offer! Maybe he has some nice ideas I can borrow", Lini lights up in more enthusiasm than about any earlier subject involving people and civilization.

Haltani and Halvor aren't part of the next encounter.

It takes a little while and some help, but you eventually find Alexei Kartov in his shop. The elderly man puts away a cloth covered in gems as you enter, "I don't often get so many shoppers at once. Are you perhaps looking to commission matching daggers for your band of adventurers?"

"I imagine one would not go to a jewelry shop if one were in the market for weaponry." Jayori says, with a smile.

"We seek something a little more long lasting, and perhaps beneficial to everyone! Trade!"

Where are all those Exchange members when you need them. =)

He glances back at the others. "Who has the letter?"

"We have here a Letter of Trade, and have brought many supplies. We hope to do some fair business with your town. You specifically have been pointed out to us as having wares well worth bargaining for."

Not sure how this works? Diplomacy perhaps? Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31
Anyone have a more mercantile background that might work better here?

No, but I think you've managed just fine!

Straight to the point, excellent. Even better now that those thugs aren't trying to burn the place to the ground... "Indeed, we would be providing you with a locally unique and lucrative opportunity, should you accept." Kyra seems to be much more at ease negotiating peacefully than teetering on the edge of a blade. She even smiles sometimes.

Gadget is taken aback at the finely crafted words.

Lini walks around the shop, examining the jewelry. "These are so different from what I do. Beautiful. I cannot tell how they are done, or which ones are good craftmanship. Look, Droogami! This might suit you!"

"You would have to provide the daggers, of course. But jewel encrusted hilts are all the latest rage. Might I suggest some ice diamonds?"

Alexei accepts the parchment and looks over it for a minute. "Hmm . . . I believe we might be able to establish some ongoing and mutually beneficial trade. I would love to secure a market for Irrisen's ice diamonds in Absalom."

"I'm sure we can discuss the details of such an arrangement!" He will reply to Alexei.

Having no clue what an ice diamond is, Jayori will let Lini comment on that, since the little druid seems to have some knowledge of such things.

Is this a one and done thing, or do we need to talk to more merchants? Still not sure how this works. =)

"Oh, ice diamonds! I've heard of those. Do you have a sample? They could also be made into lovely necklaces, maybe in gold with a Varisian fitting. The Taldan style wouldn't do them justice, however grandiose it is", Lini start chattering about possible applications for the ice diamonds.

One and done. On to the Baroness . . .

Lini oogles the ice diamonds that Alexei gave her in exchange for the letter of trade, sure that they could be used in any number of jewelry pieces.

You find Baroness Nadya outside her palace, seated in an ice garden. Every plant, tree, bird, bench, and fountain is intricately sculpted out of ice. By magic or alchemy, the ice even displays the full range of vibrant colors one normally expects in a garden.

A group of guards stand watch, and demand that you lay down your weapons. "How dare you enter the Baroness' presence uninvited!"

This whole damn country looks like it could use a little more Sarenrae in their lives. Kyra swiftly unbuckles her scimitar's sheathe and drops it to the ground in front of her. "We have come to ask permission to venture further into Irrisen. We mean no disrespect, only to have the Baroness' blessing in our travels."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14

Zax will comply by dropping his weapons as well. No need to be hostile. As Kyra has already stated, we simply ask for permission to venture forth.

Diplo: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

Jayori seems momentarily distracted by the wonder of seeing garden furniture and topiaries made of ice.

"A true wonder." He says, finally, smiling towards the Baroness. "That it could be sculpted so!"

He gives her a slight bow, then addresses the guards. "My name is Jayori Bissumbhur. My companions and I were told that Baroness Nadya's wisdom and guidance were what we should seek, if we wished to travel further north." He looks towards the Baroness again. "Our friend Haltari sends her warmest regards, and know that our purpose here is peaceful."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

Ah man... I'm a little worried I'm using up all my good rng luck too early here!

"Yeah, wow. That is incredible." Gadget looks on at the ice sculptures while the party talks.

At the mention of Haltani's name, the Baroness looks up from a sculpture and waves aside her guards. "Where precisely do you wish to travel, and for what purpose? And do you expect to stay very long?"

Jayori will smile at the woman, and bow slightly.

"We appreciate your consideration, Baroness." He says.

"We seek what remains of a town, once known as Naldak's Point, back before Irrisen was founded." He continues. "It is said to have once been about half a days journey from here."

"To the north." He adds.

"Though it is likely buried beneath the ice, we are hoping it is not too deeply entrenched." he grins again. "Though we brought a few ice picks in case it is. These being your lands, we hope for your permission to travel to the site and take a look."

We still negotiating?
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 24

"And if that is amenable, perhaps it can become a first step in other peaceful interactions in the future."

Not sure how to bring up the whole Whiterook incident...?

"Attack at Whiterook. Halvor thinks it was you", Lini adds, not afraid of expressing herself bluntly. She walks around the garden, examining the ice sculptures of nature closely. "Such detail, but why? Why not living trees?" she wonders aloud while looking at the ice art. Not moving her focus from the ice, she adds: "We research. We seek things lost in time, as in Naldak's point."

The Baroness gets parchment and a pen from one of her guards, then scribbles a travel permit and hands it to Jayori. "This grants you permission to travel 5 miles out from Dalun." To Lini, she adds, "Halvor thinks it was me? He is the one who attacked my trade envoy!"

Jayori accepts the permit graciously, thanking her for her generosity.

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

Sense Motive: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (8) - 1 = 7

Damnit, that's it... I need to train that up a bit!

As she responds to Lini's comment, he frowns slightly. "That is not the story from his side." He offers. "He believes your trade envoy, backed by winter wolves and trolls, attacked his people as they were about to let them into the town. Many died on both sides."

"It was all we could do to talk him down from mounting a retaliatory raid."

"Jayori speaks the truth. It is not my place to advise nobles, but on behalf of the Dawnflower I must suggest a peace be arranged before more blood floods this land," Kyra says as she instinctively clutches her holy symbol. I know the consequences of leaving bandits unchecked better than most...

"Thank you for your blessing to travel. We will act with utmost respect while in your lands."

Having achieved their goal, Kyra respectfully waits for her party to finish up and head out.

Zax merely stands and watches has the others in the party handle the situation in their own unique ways. I really don't see a need to clutter up what has already been said.

The Baroness listens attentively to all you say about Halvor, but it is hard to tell what she thinks, "I thank you for your information, perhaps I shall look more deeply into this situation. If you need to purchase any supplies for your trip, my guards can direct you to the appropriate merchants."

Does anybody want to do or buy anything before leaving town?

Gadget quickly checks through her quivers. "10... 20... 30... 40... 50... OK, I think I'll be alright."

"Although is there anything you recommend buying?"

Haltani meets up with you just outside of Dalun, ”I didn’t find any information about the place you seek, but was able to narrow things down a little. It is most likely north-by-northeast of Dalun, and at least three hours away.”

Haltani’s help provides a +4 circumstance bonus to Survival checks to find Naldak’s Point. Everyone please roll 4 Fortitude saves vs. the cold.