[PFS] GM Brew's PFS Archons

Game Master Wicked Brew

Perhaps Eloriand and I could do a search along the outskirts of town. I can call upon divine powers to allow me to assist Eloriand in tracking and we may uncover some additional clues. I am not certain what else I can uncover in this town. I feel as if I have seen all there is and I am not sure there are any clues to reveal unless Erika shows herself. I thought that the Mayor would know where she holds her services, but he had no idea. Maybe one of the townsfolk would?

GMWhat do we know about the worship practices to Iomedae? Morning service? Held in nature? Anything special used in ceremonies? I just assumed she is a poser but in case she is a real worshiper then we should investigate
Know Religion: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17

The undercover agents finish their breakfast and head out into town to re-start the investigation. Before the party breaks up into teams, they discover a person waiting for them as the leave the Heath and Harvest. In the light of the morning, they see a shorter woman with close cropped blond hair staring at them with an fierce intensity. She is armored, and wears the colors and insignia clearly identifying her as a worshiper of Iomede. She wears a sheathed sword at her hip. The woman approaches the group as they leave the inn.

You there! Hold. I am Erika, servant of the Inheritor. What is your business here? You are not of Dawton. Why have you come? I have learned you are inquiring about the murderers who await the Inheritor's justice. Who are you? Speak true. Are you Pathfinders? Are you here to free your brethren? State your business. She fixes the group with a hard stare.

Sorry about the confusion. I thought the group walking the streets was looking for Erika and not engaged in actively gathering info from the folk about town. On the next info gathering trip, please include Diplomacy or Know (local) checks. In any event, you guys found her ;). Tarek, the worship of Iomede is very common and as Tarek is trained in Know Religion he would know the basic tenets of that faith.

Under her breath Kat speaks in Elvish.

Brew, that is quite alright. I just did not want us to repeat the same actions since the group was in a crunch for time. I will post later when I am at my computer. Maybe we should let Caoilte work his charms on her :-)

Tarek smiles at the woman Greetings to you priestess of Iomedae. You are shining image of your radiant goddess. I am Tarek Delrin, follower of Qi Zhong. Tarek gives a polite and respectful bow You are correct that we are not of Dawton, but I am also guessing that not everyone currently in town is? I see there is fire in your eyes, but we are not here to cause the town any trouble. We heard of the recent events and were troubled by the news. I was seeking you out to make a donation to the families of the slain. When you could not be found, I met with with Mayor Luin and gave him the coin. I offered the prisoners a chance to relieve their hearts of their deeds, but I could find no guilt within the words they spoke. This news troubled me and warranted further investigation. A man was seen leaving the scene of the murders that did not fit the description of those imprisoned. We only seek that those who committed these crimes be held accountable for their actions. It is our belief that a murderer is on the loose and the town is not safe until he is apprehended. I am certain that Iomedae, as does my god, would wish to see justice prevail? Tarek looks intently at Erika and continues We have no wish to stand in the way of justice. If the Pathfinders are guilty of these crimes then they shall suffer the consequences, but we will not sit idle knowing there is a murderer still on the loose. The Mayor has given us free reign to look about Dawton and we are doing as he permitted. I can not rest, with honor, knowing that I have not done everything within my power to keep the less fortunate safe and bring the killers to justice. I hope the same honor would prevent you from being satisfied with a murderer running free? Now that we have met, I would hope you could offer us your aid?

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (5) + 10 = 15

No more dice rolling for me. Not sure if I rolled out of the single digits the past few times

Knowledge (Local): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25

I think it is because I'm taking all the good rolls, not that it does that much good all the time...

Eloriand hears Kat's words and shakes his head subtly; sure the contempt was plain as day on his half-elven face.

The Iomedean inquisitor takes another step forward and approaches Tarek. Her face wrinkles as Tarek explains the group's presence. She tilts her head slightly and she speaks plainly, but almost in a forced measured tone A concerned citizen? Then you are not sent here by Starrise Spire? She stares deeply into Tarek's eyes as she pointedly asks her question, dispassionate and unblinking.

Need a bluff roll T unless he cops to being a Pathfinder.

I watch intently for a moment and before Tarek can answer.

Well, by the Dead God, it is nice to see a woman of the same faith! Tell me priestess where do you hail from? You are a welcome sight for sure. Tarek is a good and godly man, and sustains my spirit, but never in quite the same fashion as a chaplain on one's own faith.

I smile and study the woman for her reaction and the actions she takes...trying to figure out if she is a real woman of the cloth, or if there is more to her, while also attempting to distract her from Tarek.

so does she look like Brienne of Tarth or Juliane Hough

Tarek purposefully has been trying to skirt around the issue of answering that question or lying about who they are. If he can keep her talking long enough then maybe somebody will pick up some useful info

Tarek returns the gaze and responds in a more direct tone

I have never known a follower of Iomedae to refuse aid to do good works for the protection of the people. It matters not where we came from or where we were going. What matters is that we are here, in this town, and there is a murderer on the loose that you have failed to capture. I do believe the good Mayor still has authority over this town and it is under his authority that we are allowed to search for this criminal. We will welcome your aid but hampering our duties will definitely get back to your superiors and undoubtedly will lose you favor among these fine people.

Tarek then extends his hand I ask once more, will you provide us your aid in our search?

Caoilte, fully aware of his lack of gentlemanly grace. decides not to inject any comments into the discussion but looks over the area for any assistance Erika might have.

perception: 1d20 ⇒ 20

Isador has looked the woman's clothes over during the exchange between trying to determine if any of her clothes contain a missing or similar button as the one recovered at the crime scene.

Seeing the tension rise between Erika and Tarek he steps forward to confront the priestess.

Pathfinders... seriously? I am a merchant from Absalom and I needed protection during my travels. These are my companions and we are just passing through this town when we heard the news of the soon to be executions.

my bleeding heart companion felt obligated to come offer some comfort to the soon to be departed; I was against it of course because there was the chance that we would run into someone like you.

the type that are paranoid and see deception at every corner and in everyone... I wanted to pass but he can be persuasive. I agreed to let him see the accused and I sought out the local traders. Fortunately, the town has a few saving graces.

anyway.. I was enjoying the beer and interesting company, here to see the hanging, when he returns to tell me of a possible murderer still on the loose.

He glances towards Caoilte.

Now I'm glad to have skilled protection with me but I was worried for my safety so I sent my crew back to speak to the mayor. He mentioned you were giving orders around here.. which was a little surprising but hey, its not my town so whatever..

no one could find you to confirm anything until now.. I have to say it is quite odd that you are new to the town but are in charge of the justice.

we are not looking for trouble but I am a bit concerned, based on the eye witness accounts and the mayor, the real killer may be still lurking the streets.

What are your plans for finding this other fugitive? It would be a dark spot on you and your order if innocent men were hung by mistake.

Eloriand will follow Caoilte's lead and look for any nearby help.

I watch Erika closely both the reaction of my comments and to the absolute splendid comments from Izzy...watching..observing...my hand never far from the hilt of my blade or to the wand in my belt.

Erika continues to stare at Caoilte with a white hot smoldering intensity. Her mouth twists into a little smile as Tarek skirts the issue when confronted directly about their potential Pathfinder origins. She is about to speak, when Isador interjects. She quiets once again and listens to Isador's exposition. Isador thinks he has her fooled, but the seasoned seeker of Iomede's truth does not appear to be fooled. Erika turns on her heel and walks a few feet away where a group of citizens have gathered to watch the spectacle. She spins abruptly and addresses the group. Merchants. Concerned passers by. Do not think you have fooled me for one moment. I seek the truth for the inheritor! You think this is the first lie I have been tasked to uncover? Hardly. I care not what you call yourselves, I charge you as Pathfinders here to free their murdering fellows. Here me now meddlers. I have heard the voice of Iomede herself. She has granted me vision and wisdom and has issued a warning, not just to me but to us all. The Pathfinders were here are engaged in wickedness and villainy and it is upon our charge to thwart their evil ways. As she speaks, the Archons can see the crowd is rapt with attention and nodding along with Erika's impromptu sermon. Erika takes a step toward the group and paces their length, addressing each of them as she speaks further. Call yourselves what you will, but you will NOT stay the just hand of the Inheritor. The villains sent by Starre Spire shall pay for their wicked acts and NONE of you shall interfere. Run tell your overlords that your attempt to thwart justice has failed. She then turns to address those gathered, Do not trust this fellowship, for they mean to set loose the killers back among you. Erika storms off into the crowd, pausing near Havelock before she disappears If you truly follow the will of Iomede, you will lead these people away from here. Even if you chose to defy me, I will pray for you. All of us deserve to praise Iomede and work in her light and strive for her justice. Her eyes flare for an instant and she is gone into the crowd.

Isador has ample opportunity to observe Erika's attire and can find nothing that would match the button found at Otto's farm. Havelock can tell instantly that Erika is the real deal when it comes to her devotion to Iomede and is speaking as a true believer. Tarek and Isador, however, are gravely concerned with the strength of her zeal and the fact that she seems to be taking liberties with the tenets of the faith. Tarek recounts history and , upon looking at the markings of Erika's armor and vestments of faith, is disturbingly reminded of the Third Mendevian Crusade, when Mendev suffered from the witch hunts led by overzealous inquisitors of Iomedae, and Ekira’s uniform and behavior hearken back to that disastrous campaign.

Eirka mic drops and beats feet. The party may now take actions about town before breaking for lunch.

Kat speaks quietly but doesn't bother to hide her words from the crowd, So... Did anyone else hear a whole bucket of crazy just now?

Well that was a scene that would have been nice to avoid. She is very zealous about her beliefs, for that is certain. I can't help but feel that another force is at work here. I wonder what she meant about being tasked to uncover lies? I am curious as to what lies she seeks to uncover. I still think we need to find this Chelaxian fellow who is skulking about town. He is the final piece to this puzzle and he may hold the answers we seek. That button would fit with Chelaxian attire.

Tarek scans the crowd for anyone fitting the Chelaxian's decsription before they have time to disperse

The red murmurs, The over-zealous are often among the most corruptible as they feel they can only hear or see the influence of their chosen deity. Someone cunning can use that and direct them like a puppet on a string. We need to find where she stays when not meddling in the affairs of others.

This is going to become another witch hunt if it isn't already. We need to stay together and watch each other's backs as well as in crowded areas if possible, if not then at least seen every once in awhile. I do not doubt that another corpse will show up soon and we will be staring down her pointed finger due to a "revelation" from her god.

I still want to find the highest point in the city, at least that is accessible to the public and see the layout of the city and surrounding areas. Does anyone have a spyglass?

Well this has just officially turned into a goat rope! I spit on the ground in disgust and shouting at Erika is Celestial. BY THE DEAD GOD, A SERVANT OF THE INHERITOR YOU MAY BE, BUT YOU OVER ZEALOUSNESS BLINDS YOU AS SURELY AS IT DID ARODEN IN FORESEEING HIS OWN DEATH AND AS IT DOES CHELIAX AND THE FOOLISHNESS OF THE THIRD CRUSADE. YOU SILLY WOMAN YOU WILL CONDEM THIS WHOLE VILLAGE TO BURN WITH YOUR BLINDING PASSION AND OVER ZEALOUSNESS! Not even Iomede can help you now.

I stomp in further frustration...[b] Kat is right we need to really watch ourselves...in fact...we don't go back to the inn and we better this mystery guy, otherwise I don't think the body count will stop at three hangings.

Caoilte spits between his teeth. Well, I've always held that there's really only two solutions for god botherers, their solution for you or your solution for them. Seems the followers of Iomede have gotten a bit rabid in these parts. Anyways, we still got to find that other guy.

Eloriand continues to scan the crowd for anything of note until the others commit to the group's next action.

I wonder if This Chelaxian has set up camp outside of town?Should somebody follow Erika and others search outside of town for any signs of the suspect at large? As I was mentioning earlier, I could assist Eloriand in any tracking duties. I doubt diplomacy is needed after this little production that Erika put on

considering how poorly Tarek and Eloriand have been making skill checks, they may have better luck drinking in the tavern. At least they will eventually find the bottom of the glass

Isador quickly conceals the look of surprise that crosses his face upon hearing Erika's response. Muttering to himself..

Well, that was certainly unexpected.

He quickly scans the crowd and then turns his focus back towards the Red. He makes a few odd but subtle gestures and sounds before turning back towards the rest of the group.

That woman is crazy... I think that I am going back to the stores that carried some items of interest and then we are heading out of here before she finds more evil in everyone.

The red tilts her head slightly and leans a bit closer to Izzy.

Isador slides his hand across his face and pretends to rub his eyes.

The red fidgets with her ears.

I think we need to know where this woman lives and I half wonder if she doesn't come back at us now or in some similar fashion. Tarek made an observation, which, now leaps out at me very glaringly. The common year right now is 4911/12. The Third Mendevian Crusade was in 4865. That is a 46 years ago. Our Erika is decked out in garb from that era. She's human and we all know that humans don't age as gracefully as Kat does.

Pausing for a second, looking them all in the eye... The Third Medevian crusade was a disaster and is well known and regarded as a war or campaign where the Crusade turned inward and purged as many of its own ranks to the gallows and burnings at the stake as it lost to the demonic hordes that it fought at the world wound. A common theory is that demons did to a minor extent, infiltrate the ranks which lead to these over zealous witch hunts and purging. Iomede is not nearly as tolerable as Sarenrae or the other benevolent deities of this world which further compounded the problem. That leads me with a few theories and none of them are good. 1. She is the grand daughter of a Iomede Cleric or Paladin and thinks she is doing grand daddy's deed like Don Quixote. 2. She is a ghost or lost soul attempting to make up for what she failed to do in life. 3. She is one of these left over demonic infiltrators attempt to sow further unrest. I am sure might be other ideas like she is a nut job, zealot, but I have a hunch that our mysterious stranger and her are linked and my guess is that perhaps the demonic stink of the world would would like nothing better than to fond a way to folks from OUR organization to raise our hands up and to say to hell with it and not observe or contribute to keeping the world wound in check. The hand writing on the notes is also identical. Other than that, I still think Jorsal is a turd. yeah.. I say we go after her and I think as we walk through the town, if anyone has the ability to sniff or detect the presence of evil, it might be a good time to use that trick. Oh..thanks for listening...I'll try to be quiet now.

Thanks Brew for the commentary about Erika walking way. A destinct image popped into my head. Sexual Chocolate!
Randy Watson

Erika pauses as Havelock bellows after her. She turns and fixes Havelock with a piercing stare. You are no servant of the Inheritor, stranger. You have yet to utter anything truthful, until then your words hold no power. Her Power runs through me, her Voice guides me. I feel I know what "power' guides you. Mind yourself, for if you follow your fellow Pathfinders down the sinner's path then you SHALL share their fate as well. With the nods of encouragement from the crowd, Erika finishes her exit. The crowd turns, looking at Havelock in particular, and their faces are clearly disapproving.

The Archons decide to to regroup and head in for an early lunch at the Heath and Harvest. Once there, they are certain they hear whispers among the crowd, talking about the agents and their encounter with the inquisitor.

Lunch at the Harvest, feel free to discuss the party's next move then post what actions, if any, the group decides on for phase 2 of day 2 (actually phase 2 of the 5th day).

Well anyone in the mood to watch a hanging or getting out of town? We got a woman running around in a 45 year old war uniform, a bunch of blood thirsty townies, and we don't have squat for evidence. I'm half tempted to draw steel on that woman next time I see her and she asks us who we are, as if its a freaking crime and if she wants to make something of it. If she wants the truth, I'll give her the truth, but she can't handle the truth I am betting. Did I mention I think Jorsal is a real punk?

I think we need a back up plan just in case we uncover no more evidence and can not find this mystery man. Jorsal asked to find evidence that the three prisoners did not comit this crime. I will not let 3 people hang for something they more than likely did not do. I think we should consider options to free the prisoners that won't bring harm to anymore innocents. I would still like to search the outskirts of town and I think it would be good if Kat could gain a vantage point to survey the area. I have lost my appetite and I am ready to continue searching for clues. Tarek gets up from the table and looks the group over Anybody ready to get out of here? I am getting tired of being eyed like a leper. Havelock, do you still have silent image in your bag of tricks? We may need it for tomorrow and I can think of a few ideas to aid in the release of the prisoners. Tarek gathers his things and makes ready to leave

I am with ya, right behind ya!

The Pathfinders find trouble eating as their investigation hits a snag. Having finally been confronted by Erika, they are left with more questions than answers. Tarek decides to press forward and contemplate the group's next move.

Alright, you guys do have an afternoon to look for more clues. Interacting with citizens on the streets or other locations may yield results. The party has uncovered more information that you all may realize. The groups has heard several rumors, taken two purported eye witness accounts and have recovered one piece of physical evidence. May want to go over what you have if you are stuck. Just some thoughts.

The challenge for me is figuring out how to use the information we gathered, in our favor. I am fearful of making another roll based on the single digit whoppers that I have been getting. I am hoping we find more concrete evidence that Erika won't be able to causally push aside. Do we know how the witch hunts were brought to an end in the last crusade?

The witch hunts ended when the disastrous campaign was called off. The 3rd Mendevian appears to have been as successful as the 5th/Children's Crusade.

You know, when we went over some of the things we turned up, was there a document that matched handwriting? We have a button of unknown origin as well. Why don't we go back to the general store and try to get a hand written sale of receipt for some miscellaneous goods, as well as seeing if the button matches anyone we have met, as well as any of the strangers we see out and along out way. We can also be looking for that evil looking guy, though I wonder how true that story is.

Thoughts?

As Tarek gets ready to head out, he goes over what they have found so far with the other Archons.
We have a button but nobody to match it to.
A man was hung and skinned at Otto's farm. What would someone need with skin? It seems a bit excessive to use skinning as a form of torture. Was it for a trophy? Are there some demons that can wear the skins of others? Was the skin removed so this person could not be identified?
We know there is a Tall evil looking man that was seen committing one of the murders. Orug saw the man and could easily identify him if we were able to find him and detain him.
We heard rumor that a Chelaxian fellow was inquiring about our group. He could be the man that was seen committing the murders, but we are unsure.
A stork was giving me the eye, but we were unable to locate where it went. Are storks an unusual sight in these parts? Should we inquire who would have such a bird if they are uncommon?
Erika seems to be a true follower of Iomedae, but she is a zealot with a passion of her order that existed in the last crusade. She says she hears voices, but I am not certain those voices come from the Goddess. Who could be filling her head with these thoughts?
Knowing all of this, where is our next best place to look? I don't think the stranger or Erika live in town, so where do they go? I think we should try to track them and locate their living quarters. Perhaps we can observe Erika communing with her God and determine if it is real or not.

When the group leaves the inn, Tarek will make a few inquires of the locals about seeing a beautiful stork and if it had been noticed by others. He will also ask if anyone knows where Erika holds any worship services

Havelocck, didn't see your post until after I finished mine. Guess we were in the same frame of mind

Skinnin' a guy, just like raping a woman or child, inflames the masses and makes 'em want blood. Look, I think this ain't about the three guys in jail, it's about discrediting the organization. Which is exactly what we'll do if we break these guys out or start a riot. Caoilte thinks You're going to look like an idiot asking about a stork. If Erika is possessed I'd be looking at somebody along your line of work for confirmation. And if we're looking for an evil dude skulking about I think we got a few folks among us that might be able to get ahold of the 'right people' for answers on who might be skulking. Now, I'd like to be of more help but I've always been paid to bust heads, not use mine. I think I ought to go where some rough housing is required which means Me, Kat and Izzy might want to talk to the local shadowy procurers of unsecured goods.

That sounds like a fine idea.

I would still like to get as much of an aerial view as possible, too.

I agree with you Caoilte that someone is trying to discredit the society. Jorsal said to let the Pathfinders pay for their crimes, if they are guilty. I think we are all in agreement that those imprisoned are not the ones who perpetrated these crimes. They are one of us and I could not see them put to death anymore than I could sit by and do nothing, if it was one of you that was wrongly accused. What does that say about the honor and credibility of a society that allows such things to happen? They were sent to this place by order of the Society. For all we know, someone in the society may want them dead. I think we should consider all options at this point

Agreed...lets get moving. Time is not on our side.

Undeterred, the Archons once again hit the beat to uncover more evidence of their brethren's innocence. Kat, Izzy and Isador make efforts to root out the local hooligans to see if their shadowy business led to any interesting overheard conversations. After asking the right questions, Izzy locates a local "speakeasy" that houses a secret tavern for the more Varissian types. Kat gets herself to a high vantage point by climbing a nearby building and takes a aerial view of the city, keeping an eye on Isador and Caoilte as they enter the rough bar. As Izzy and Caiolte saunter over to the makeshift bar, the barman initially gives Isador the stink eye, but straightens out when he gets a look at Caoilte. The barman nods Hey there. No trouble you two. Not sure why Rek let you in here, but we don't take to strangers here if you get me. What to you want?

Meanwhile...

Tarek, Havelock and Eloriand strike out into town, searching for the odd bird they witnessed before or any signs of the mysterious tall man.

Izzy and Caoilte, make a bluff, diplomacy or Intimidate check. Tarek, lock and Eloriand can continue to search for Erika, the tall man or the stork or speak to general citizens for information and may similarly make a bluff, diplomacy or intimidate check.

As they leave the inn, Tarek looks to El and Lock If either of you guys have a good idea then I am all ears. I just could not sit and eat, knowing we still have not done enough for the captives. Tarek looks out into the groups of people passing by Oooh, there go a few interesting folk. I must ask that fellow where he got that vest, it looks fabulous

Tarek speaks with several commoners along the street and inquires about their day, clothing and the events in town. He will then change the conversation to discuss unusual wildlife and spotting a stork. I have a Chelaxian friend who is quite the Ooligist. I often wondered if bird watching is a Chelaxian hobby, but I have not encountered others from that region to ask. I will have to keep my eyes open for one to conduct my survey.

Tarek will make sure his holy symbol is visible while speaking with people in town Pardon me, but have you seen Erika of the Inheritor around? We had a rather upsetting conversation earlier and I wish to discuss more about her theology. Is she holding any services today or is there somewhere she uses as a place of worship?

Caoilte holds up his hands. You'll get no trouble from me. I could use a wee dram of strong drink but otherwise my job is to make sure this guy... pointing at Izzy ... pretty much gets to where he's going and back with a minimum of hassle.

Eloriand, more quiet than normal, will keep his head on a swivel looking for anything that may help.

As we walk around, I keep my eyes open and do my best to keep my mouth shut.

The barman maintains his scowl, but takes no further aggressive action. The unseemly denizens of the speakeasy watch Caoilte and Isador uneasily as they slowly move about the cramped room.

Waiting on Izzy's action here.

Meanwhile...

Tarek mills about the crowd and though the citizens of Dawton seem a bit more stand offish than before the party's run in with Erika, his divine nature and skill with words seems to put those he speaks to at ease. As he makes his way, flanked by Havelock and Eloriand, a woman approaches them. She is an older woman and appears very distraught. The stranger speaks to Tarek in a shaky voice Terrible business this, this violence. I do not want to believe those nice looking folk would do such a thing, but...oh... she breaks off into a weep but soon recovers herself one of them chased my neighbors boys! They caught one o' them in the act, and the evil murderer turned and went after them...they was lucky to escape with their lives! I...I just hope this will all end when those fella are put to the gallows. The kindly lady wipes a tear and continues on her way.

The trio continues to comb through the streets of Dawton when a gruff looking man approaches the group. The man is tall with a bald head and he walks up to Tarek undaunted. Is it true? What Erika says? You folks with them Pathfinders. I hope for your sake that ain't so. I heard that those sneaky bastards sent another group to bust their buddies out of here tomorrow night, with orders to kill sheriff Luin and anyone else gets in their way. This here is a peaceful town before those Society blokes got here, and we ain't done nothing to them or you, but I will tell ya this... the man jabs a thumb at his own head I, and a lot of my pals, ain't gonna sit by and let anyone kill our mayor and slaughter our people. Might do well to remember that. The man sniffs the air once, gives Havelock a disapproving glance and walks on about his business.