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Now having only himself Jeffrey carried on. He grew up without a lot of social skills, but always kept smiling. In his adolescence years Jeffrey had been a hired bodyguard, protecting those who could pay for protection. It was a satisfying job for Jeffrey, who felt like he was needed somewhere, but his customers thought otherwise. Though Jeffrey was perfectly able of protecting his customers, he wasn't very skilled when it came to politeness. Jeffrey's attempts to act friendly involved calling those he was hired to protect names, and his constant smile didn't help to make up for it.
After having quit his job as bodyguard Jeffrey set up his own small company, 'Warren Inc.', specializing in solving odd jobs. Jeffrey's charisma hadn't improved, but he figured as long as he got the job done he'd continue to get job requests. Somehow this turned out to work, which resulted in many jobs successfully handled and many customers accidentally offended. All the while Jeffrey smiled, not sure of what he did wrong.
As a kid Jeffrey loved pretending to be a knight, wearing a cardboard box as he sought adventure by chasing cats. This resulted in other kids making fun of him. As such Jeffrey is very touchy when it comes to people bullying or suppressing others.
Jeffrey worships Cayden Cailean, god of freedom, ale, wine and bravery. Freedom and bravery are two things Jeffrey values highly due to his background, and are what ties him to the Liberty's Edge faction. Ale and wine are also quite important to Jeffrey, and sometimes help him improve his social skills just a bit.
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Deliyah is short, compact and toned, as an elf her age is difficult to determine. She wears her dark hair long, and sometimes colours it with red or yellow. Some say that she has a cruel smile.
Deliyah is devoted to Calistria in her aspect as Goddess of Vengeance, and hunts down those who have wronged on behalf of those who can't enact their own revenge. She takes her role seriously, though it would be a lie to say she didn't enjoy it...
Deliyah is the child of a Callistrian priestess, born from a liaison with a target. lacking the affinity for the priesthood Deliyah instead was focussed into a stylish killer of wrongdoers.
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Newis arrives at the location where the Pathfinders were to meet up for their Confirmation, humming to himself with a big smile. He had a pair of shortspears strapped to his back with a large steel shield attached to his right arm while his free dominant left hand snapped its fingers to his humming tune. The half-elf had a barbaric look to him but the faint feeling of magic coming from his humming suggested something different than a typical barbarian.
Not noticing any others arriving yet, Newis took a seat on the ground and made sure to keep a close eye for his new friends. The tanned almost red-skinned half-elf bobbed his head side to side as he continued singing to himself, letting his ash gray hair swing side to side.
The lo-nely halfie sat allll alone, talll-king tooo his spear.
"I wonder when my friends will come, I hope they bring some beer."
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Sparrow, a nimble half-elf in tricorn and fairly traditional deck hand outfit, replete with some nautically themed studded leathers and red & white stripped pants that end in tatters before they reach his boots, almost as if he'd not arrived in a boat but washed up on shore. His golden blond locks, in a near affront to his elven heritage, is matted and crimped into dreadlocks. though he can't seem to grow a beard.
As he scratches a flea or sea lice from the brine off [ yes he does seem to carry an odiferous briney smell with him where he goes ], you can see what looks to be a brand from old davey jones. It seems burned into the skin on his neck, not quite a tattoo, not quite a burn, perhaps a birthmark or some odd looking scar in the shape of a skull and crossbones on the left side. On the right side of his neck is his namesake the sparrow.
He pops a flask, offers to no one in particular and has a swig or two before putting it away. He doesn't introduce himself, just kind of stands around presumptuously like this must be where he's supposed to be. checks the wind. and waits.
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The three alone were quite a gang, of Elven ancestryyy
a Pirate, a purr, and a friendly parched poet;
but alas, no beer, for meee.
Newis looks up at the female, "The only entertainment I get these days is GLORY, Elven sister. But that will come in time, for now, we sing! And wait for beer! And our other new friends of course." He checked out the cool looking pirate fellow, "Great hat."
The Confirmation is the final test all Pathfinder initiates must pass in order to become Pathfinder field operatives. Every Confirmation is different, and ordinarily it would be tailored to the individual initiate; however, 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.”[/i]
us?
As you make your way to the pub at some ungodly early hour you begin to note at how the weather in Absalom is beginning to turn back to warmer temperatures once again. 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. The room is full of inebriates sleeping off their revelries from the previous night.
The invitation had been sent from the Pathfinder Society's Master of Scrolls, Kreighton Shane. Upon your arrival you notice the master has not made an appearance yet, but there are several others who are awake and are gathered that appear to be waiting as well.
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One more ally joins the crew, of the adventurous and brave!
But watch for traps you run into, you'll meet an early grave...
"ARGH, where is this damned Master of Scrolls? It's almost light and I haven't felt the glory of BATTLE today! Maybe one of my brave new friends has a tale of TRIUMPH to share; light a fire in our hearts to prepare us for our Confirmation!" he shouts, catching a stale half-filled mug in his peripheral vision and without hesitation, gripped it in his palm and drank it down in a few big gulps. He grimaced from the awful taste but already felt the warmth in his belly as he tossed the empty mug across the room, wishing it wake someone from their slumber and start a confrontation.
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Spit and sweat, spit and sweat, the things that make you STRONG!
Spit and sweat, spit and sweat, that truly isn't wrong!
Spit and sweat, spit and sweat, why aren't you singing along?
Spit and sweat, spit and sweat, an unsuccessful song....
"Beer is beer, sister, as long as it gets the job done. I've had my fair share of awful tastes in my life; This isn't the worst." he said before giving out a loud belch. "And I would LOVE for a Pathfinder-hating soul to come across US right now, I'm sure they would be in for much more trouble than they think...." He walked around the quiet bar, looking for more leftovers.
As your introducing yourelves, a familiar elven man pushes into the room. He searches for his group and makes hi way to you, hopping up high upon top of a large round table in front of you.
“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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You might not have notice him earlier, but when Keighton Shaine announced his presence an elf's ears perked up and he moved over to the rest of the group. He is a slim and gangly elf with brown hair and green eyes with pale skin. He is dressed in simple traveling clothes.
Hello everyone one, my name is Nym.
Nym looks nervous but offers everyone a smile.
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"Damp dark crevices seem to be your specialty. Sorry I didn't speak up earlier I was distracted with a song in my head; my name is NEWIS, the Voice of Erages. It's a pleasure to meet you all and I hope we can forge strong bonds and surpass our test!" he smiled and looked around to the rest of the group before joining Kreighton Shaine and taking a seat at his table.
The party of pointy-ears was ready for its test;
Take a halfling, find some fish, then go map out the rest;
Gillmen are a silly race, they really are a pest;
But leave it up to the Pointy-Ear Crew; we are the best for quests.
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enchanted madam deliyah. extends his hand to receive her hand as if to kiss it. sees she doesn't extend her hand and just turns it into a flourish.
I'm Sparrow. and i'm rather fond of dark crevasses. they tend to hold good treasure. Shall we diddle-daddle some more or gather some climbing supplies and be off?
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Gathering supplies sounds like a good idea. Also because of the nature of gillman and cave networks, there is a good chance water will be involved. I have never learned to swim and my magic arts can not currently aid me. Nym frowns.
Janira, can you tell us a little bit about what we could expect to find in these caves? Can you tell us anything about the gillman you saw that might be helpful?
Janira smiles brightly at each and every one of you, and nods to Newis. "Nice to meet you, Newis. And it's an honor to meet you all. You'll have to forgive Master Shaine. He is brilliant, if not entirely focused. He has lived a very long time and seen things we could only dream about. I’ve learned to just accept his peculiarities and value any knowledge he wishes to share."
Then she answers Nym's questions. "The gillmen are a humanoid race much like humans save for the three piscine gills on both sides of their necks. They’re a little secretive but not outright hostile. Most live in or near the water. As for this cave, by foot it will take nearly all of today and much of tomorrow to make the journey. I know maintaining such a stiff pace will be tiring, but we need to reach the caves at the height of the lunar cycle if at all possible.”
At the center of the Isle of Kortos stand the Kortos Mounts, the points on the island.
Entire tribes of centaurs, harpies, and minotaurs constantly vie for territory up and around the Mounts, with harpies being the most common at higher altitudes and centaurs controlling the lower slopes and foothills.
Also known as the Low Azlanti, the gillmen are an amphibious humanoid race believed to be the last descendants of the ancient Azlanti people.
During Earthfall, the Starstone struck Golarion and destroyed the human empires of Thassilon and Azlant. It is said that gillmen’s ancestors survived the cataclysmic event because they received the blessing of an aquatic entity that allowed them to breath underwater.
Most scholars believe the terrifying aboleths were responsible for the gillmen’s transformation. Any alliance between them appears to have fallen apart over the millennia, however, and the gillmen are now an independent people.
"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 traveling 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."
"Now, before we head out, if there aren’t any more questions, we should take a moment to go through your gear and make sure nothing important gets left out. As the half-elf ", she nods her head to Capt. Sparrow, " mentions, we want to make sure everyone has the proper supplies. A Pathfinder never know what he's going to encounter in his journey, so preparation is paramount. The most basic adventurer's gear should be covered - a bedroll, filled waterskin, rations in case we're prevented from hunting, something to light a fire with, pots to cook. Add to that list a rope and maybe a grappling hook, you never know when you'll have to climb up a cliff or two. Finally, weapons carried should be various and efficient against different types of creatures. Friend," she nods to Jeffrey this time, "While that is an impressive weapon, I doubt the sharpness will be much use against creatures like skeletons. You may want to acquire a bludgeoning weapon or something as well. Anyone has an alchemist fire or two? Swarms of vermin seem to be on the common side during our adventures."
"Lastly one of your duties is to report, so I took the liberty of bringing pieces of parchment so that you could write whatever information you deem worthy of attention from Master Shaine. Please use them freely, I can provide more."
As the halfling brings that to your attention, memories of your three years of apprenticeship in Absalom's Grand Lodge flash in your mind. The three masters' constant reminder of the duties of a Pathfinder still echo in your ears.
Explore. Report. Cooperate.
How to forget what has become a second nature for some, a veiled pretext for others among the Society. Where do you stand? As you haven't had a real chance to put your long training to the test, you also ignore if your heart will stay true to the Pathfinder's motto.
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 am the eldest of seven children in my family, and the only one to have come of age so far. My family always had a strong faith in Desna, but rest assured that it doesn't diminish my interest in all religions, as I believe they all have something to teach us. I've joined the Society four years ago to see the world and sample all the fine food it has to offer! As you see, I'm a bit of a gourmet, but my true interest was revealed as I became Master Shaine's apprentice among the Scrolls. My passion lies in our history, I'm particularly fond of learning about our past and preserving knowledge. That I strive to achieve as a Pathfinder, and who knows, maybe one day I will be published in the Pathfinder Chronicles?
I've talked enough about old little me, I think! Let's hear all about you. What are your hopes for this mission? What do you aspire to achieve in the Society?"
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Isobel sits uncomfortably and shifts in her chair. The talk of sweat and spit, dark caves, and unfamiliar companions has set her at unease.
She smiles nervously. "I would like to discover and document all the beautiful things in the world. Perhaps we will come across some untouched streams and dells in our explorations, too," she says with a note of cheer.
There is an effortless magnetism about her.
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"I am Deliyah, sometime attached to the church of Calistria, I am trained in blade and bow, and tracking.
I seek to travel the world and learn of it's ways, bring vengeance to those who deserve it and aid those too weak to defend themselves against the depredations of predators.
I also intend to have a little fun." she smiles at the last.
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Jeffrey's been quiet until Janira mentions his sword being ineffective versus skeletons. "My sword won't help against skeletons, that's true," he says with a big smile, "but did you notice the shield I also carry? That one works fine against skeletons, shorty."
He waits till Janira's finished talking, and listens to some of the other introductions, before speaking again. When he speaks again, Jeffrey shows the same big smile as earlier.
"I have a single Alchemist's Fire, but I admit that's not much. I guess I should buy two more flasks of acid."
Jeffrey stands up and waves at everyone present. "My name's Jeffrey Warren. I'm the owner of Warren Inc, a company that solves odd jobs. I learned of the Society some time ago, and have been accepting missions from them to expand my business."
"I prefer melee combat, but I don't like when things hit me. Which is why I carry this big, spiked shield with me," Jeffrey points at his spiked heavy steel shield, "but I'll use it to hit whatever my bastard sword can't hurt."
When done talking Jeffrey turns to face Deliyah. His big smile grows a bit bigger as he does.
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I am Nym. Before my Pathfinder's apprenticeship, I spent 10 short years here in Absolam going to Arcanamirium Arcane Academy. My father was a skilled mage and passed down some of his talent to me. I have been consumed with the pursuit of magic since a child. I feel the best way to learn about something is with experience and Pathfinder's Society offers that.
Reaching into a pouch Nym produces a tiny black scorpion.
This is my good friend Bill. We have been together now for about 8 years.
Bill chitters and makes snipping motions.
I keep a potion of healing in this pouch with Bill. I only bring this up just in case the unplanned happens. If for some reason I become incapacitated, please feel free to use it to return me to health. Bill has my best interests at heart so you would have nothing to fear from him.
Bill pinches Nym.
Nym scowls.
Most of the time anyway.
Janira listens and takes in your introductions once by one. She smiles and nods to each of you.
Janira's eyes settle on Isobel. She tilts her head to the side curiously and asks, "Isobel, your features are so extravagant and I'm unable to place my finger on you heritage. I do not wish to embarrass myself, so would you be so kind as to enlighten me before I make myself the fool? Also, you mention beautiful things in nature, do you follow the Druidic path then?"
Janira focuses next on Deliyah. Her smile turns mischieivous and she holds back a laugh but still manages to smile while speaking, "Well I can't say that I've ever worked with someone associated with the church of Calistria, their tenets seem to attract a very specific group of people. I have heard many stories though, perhaps when we have time we can sit down together and discuss some. I'd love to hear some tales to add to my lore! It's my understanding that the Calistrians love to have fun."
Janira moves to Jeffrey and rolls her eyes.
Ah, the smart ass. Always one in the group, isn't there?
"Shorty is it, eh? How poetic of you. It appears that you are the well experienced adventurer amongst your companions Jeffrey. Welcome aboard."
Moving to Nym she laughs and says, "I tell you what. If it comes to that, I'll use my own method of getting you back on your feet and we can talk about the potion later. I'm not sure that Bill would take kindly to me."
She looks to Sparrow and Newis, "Any my half-elves? What are your stories?"
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Isobel responds to Janira. "I understand if it's hard to place my heritage," she says. "Not very many people have seen a nymph, and I am unaware of any other nymphs that are Pathfinders."
She smiles broadly. "So, to answer your question, I am a nymph! I am not a druid, though I enjoy all that my fellow fey do! Hopefully there will be singing, dancing, and perhaps a swim on this journey!"
She looks at Jeffrey. "My skills are the same as others of my kind...I enchant without even trying. Might I demonstrate something on you?" she asks.
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ahhh... best not delve too deep into my past. suffice it to say the lady of storms has seen it best to wash me up on your shores here in absalom and help you with this wet mess. Like most seamen, I can sail a ship through the dragon's teeth on a new moon. But I don't swim. I merely trust in besmara should I tumble overboard. she takes me where I need to get... of course there's usually alcohol involved...
fire. fire sounds good. and rope, and a grappling hook. I'll pick up some of those for myself on our way out of town whenever we do leave.
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Newis seems to have nodded off from the buzz he had gotten from various alcoholic leftovers, snapping his eyes open at the mention of the word 'half-elves' and perks right up.
Hailing from the Promised Land, of Erages born and bred;
Dreams of Glory and Fame and FRIENDS, in stories that he read;
'Join the Society, you'll find plenty there!', the recruitment billboard said;
For the Sovereign Court and the Glory of Erages, I'll sing until I'm dead!
"My story is just beginning but it will be a legendary tale for all to remember when I am finished. And I hope those that sing of my adventures will sing your names also!" he gestures to the rest of his party.
He clears his through and turns back to Kreighton Shane, "I come from Erages, a small fishing village of exiles who only wish to be accepted. I hope by joining the Pathfinder Society and following under the leadership of Lady Gloriana Morilla, I may carve my name into the history books and bring glory and fame to my birthplace."
He rummages through his belongings and notices that he doesn't have any sort of swarm-fighting capability. "Oh! It seems I've misplaced some items, I should grab an alchemist fire or two before we go in, I know how pesky small creatures can be...."
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"As for what I do for the party; I empower my allies' weapons by telling our tale of glory in the heat of battle! I've learned some spells to heal but my specialty is identifying other casters and counterspelling. I also make for a decent defense between my ranged friends and our enemies, but against a deadly foe I'll admit that I'm no Paladin."
Janira's eyes widen excitedly as she leans forward towards Isobel. "A nymph! Truly! I have never met a nymph before! I have heard quite a bit about them though."[/b]
Janira places an excited hand on Isobel's knee, "Tell me! Is it true you can blind people with your looks or stun them with your beauty? Being a keeper of lore I simply must see this for myself when we are out on our journey!"
The halfling nods to Sparrow, "All excellent choices. I cannot say for certain what we will encounter, but I know that during my time there the alchemist fire came in handy. A Pathfinder is always prepared for any possible situation!"
Finally turning to Newis she concludes, "Thank you. I look forward to hearing your tales of glory. I am myself a keeper of lore and song. I prefer to tell historical tales of famous Pathfinder Society agents to help bolster my team and inspire them - it sounds like we may have some things in common! Remind me to tell you the tale of Selmius Foster's race against a marid and efreeti on the isle of Jalmeray sometime! That taught us that nothing is truly impossible and every situation can end in victory!"
With a happy smile, Janira concludes your introductions. "Thank you for sharing your stories friend. I somehow feel that a true pathfinder's duty is to share his stories. Let's gather any remaining supplies you feel you may need and be on our way. Does anyone have any o"
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"Against a MARID you say? How intriguing! I will definitely have to add that tale to my collection of legends. Since you know the direction we need to go, I submit to your leadership so you may guide the way." he stands up and bows, collecting his things and deciding that while he needs to get some flasks, he could also using a nice backpack to carry it all in, since falling into the sum of gold from his last adventure. While they're out, along with the Alchemist Fire, he will pick up a Masterwork Backpack, 50gp, allows him to carry stuff at +1 Str, for a total of 150 gp spent so far. He shows off his backpack to the others when he meets up with them, "I highly recommend one of these to anyone who has trouble carrying all their belongings, the craftsmanship is exquisite and really helps in the long run!"
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Isobel reaches across the table and touches Jeffrey's hand. "I have many powers my kind share," she says.
After making sure that your gear is well-packed and evenly distributed among members of the team, Janira is ready to depart. You first walk through the busy and colorful streets of Absalom before leaving the City at the Center of the World for the Cairnlands along a well-worn path that leads toward Diobel, through the wilderness surrounding the Kortos Mounts. During your journey, Janira points at some large structures protruding from the landscape-what she called "siege towers"-clues of a tormented past for the metropolis. She also teaches you in some ways about the wildlife and plants you encounter.
After a good day's walk, you decide to stop for the night. Your guide uses that opportunity to tell you a story by the fire. "Let us remember the sacrifice of the fabled Yasmin bint Faroud, favored of the Ten, who gave her life distracting Zythrustianax, draconic scourge of the Society, so dozens of junior agents could survive. Her act of benevolence is the epitome of cooperation within the Society." She finishes with a smile on her lips, content to see that most of you paid attention to her story as well as the message behind it.