PbP Gameday VII: PFS Scenario #4–21: Way of the Kirin [Tier 3-7] (Inactive)

Game Master Stiehle

Kyroden walks around and ponders the defense. He knows this is not area of expertise.

Checks
A3 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9
A4 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21

Red helps the others search the place. Constructing fortifications is not in his wheelhouse, so he pretty much stays out of that.
A3 percept: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (14) + 13 = 27
A4 percept: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (4) + 13 = 17
In the end, Red would like to stay in the top of the lighthouse (A7). With that kind of view, he could easily rain down arrows on anyone who tried to approach. And he likes the open view.

A2 - Using comprehend languages SLA, in lieu of Linguistics check

A3 - Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13

A4 - Perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19

I don't expect these untrained craft checks to go well..

A5 - Craft (carpentry), untrained: 1d20 ⇒ 4

A5 - Craft (alchemy), untrained: 1d20 ⇒ 20

A6 - Craft (carpentry), untrained: 1d20 ⇒ 19

A1 Yes, Lovissa will help barricade the door.

A2: Linguistics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (12) + 8 = 20 Or I have comprehend languages.

A3, Yes, she will help barricade the windows.
A3 Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23

A4 Perception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31

A5 Disable Device: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (9) + 9 = 18

A6 Disable Device: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10

A few of the Pathfinders note that there is a family crest stamped into the tiles of the oven in the kitchen (A2), and though they aren’t familiar with nobility they are able to identify its significance through their knowledge of linguistics, discovering the crest as representing a family named Tsuneo. They also note that the fireplace in the Great Hall (A3) conceals a small stairway that leads downward. Amara notes their observation as she and the servants prepare that place for the tea ceremony and she comments that it once served as a place of hiding, the stairs leading to a lava tube that snakes through to the island’s stone core and terminating in a small cave that opens into a sheltered cove surrounding by a protective reef.

After a relatively quick search of the lighthouse storage room (A4), the Pathfinders are able to find two rusty bear traps, a 20-gallon barrel of whale oil, and most of the remains of a disassembled catapult, and though some pieces are missing they can be jury-rigged by using some of the furniture they located elsewhere in the house (subtracting one 5’ square from your inventory to create obstacles), though it will take time and some know-how. Styfis is also easily able to create the needed murder holes in the spare room (A5) as well as a pit trap in the master bedroom (A6).

After taking an inventory of the junk they’ve managed to find, the Pathfinders decide on a few basic barricades to put up before their mysterious guest has arrived for the tea ceremony. Styfis also identifies some areas outside the house itself that might be used for defensive purposes, including the path through the hills, which could serve as a nice firing lane for the catapult, should an enemy try to assault the lighthouse in the direction of the docks – which is really the only ‘safe’ area to land a large number of troops, should it come to that. However, after thoroughly exploring the house and creating the fortifications deemed necessary, one of the servants standing in the top floor of the light house calls down and Amara moves through the partly-barricaded door, joining the Pathfinders. She is dressed in formal robes of azure and dove-gray silk. “He has arrived. I ask you to clean yourselves up now and join us in the great hall within 15 minutes for the tea ceremony. Hurry now, and wear your nicest clothes to give a good impression.”

Searching the rooms required about 5 minutes each, using 30 minutes total. You have mentioned barricading the entry door (A1) with 10’ of material, as well as the windows in the great hall (A3), which will need a total of 30’ of material. This uses 8 (of 12) units of material and takes 40 (10 for door, 30 for windows) minutes to accomplish. Creating the two trapped rooms used another 30 minutes (but see below). By the time your guest has arrived, you have no time remaining for creating further defenses within the house.

If you would like to use the thirty minutes (and the rolls you made) you spent to ‘trap’ the two rooms in order to instead craft the catapult and place it, I will allow that since you were able to locate the pieces and the rolls made for Disable Device were sufficient to craft the catapult successfully in 30 minutes time. You can also forgo barricading the bay windows and create the traps AND the catapult, if you’d like to do so. But if you do that, I will need a Craft (Carpentry) roll (untrained is fine) and a Disable Device check. Remember, Aid Another can be used, but only one lead roll. I will take the first player to post their dice roll as the ‘lead’, unless they state clearly it is an ‘Aid Another’.

Next post will be the tea ceremony. Give me a good idea of what you are wearing if it is anything beyond armor (I’ll presume you polish your armor so it looks nice at the very least) or ‘regular’ clothing.

I am pretty good at disabling. Could two of us work together to make the traps/catapault. It wont take him much to get ready

I'd stick with what we've got instead of the catapult.

Lovissa ensures her fine chain shirt is polished, her ancient relics shine, and her lush white fur cloak is pristine. Then she's ready for the ceremony.

I am fine either way

Module doesn't indicate the group can split their efforts, so I think you'll have to choose, given the time constraints.

I would like this story of catapult and also place the rusty bears traps and create others traps outside of the house. I've got a +15 in Disable Device. Is it mandatory to be at this tea ceremony? We could let one PC there and the others continue to fortify the site.

Red was hoping he could just stay at the top of the lighthouse to watch for trouble, but he shrugs as he's instructed to be present at the ceremony. "Always had a bit of a thing for tea anyway," he murmurs.

Although he's rarely one for appearance beyond combing his hair, he's actually wearing pretty fancy clothes of green and brown (sort of like a kyudo gi, with billowing pants[hakama], and a flowing top that leaves his left shoulder and arm exposed[haori]). He looks a little uncomfortable in the outfit, despite it being very comfortable clothing. If things go south, I can always run to the tower.

Styfis, would you like to assist me in these tasks. It is kinda neat to think he can try to build a trebuchet?

Or maybe we assist each other, I can help you in the building and you can help me in the disabling?

I think I can disable by myself. But I prefer to aid in the building, if we can not to be at the ceremony. Somebody should also place the traps and create others ones in the landscape.

Although it' light enough to be worn under his clothes and won't be seen, Arin takes a few minutes to polish his mithril shirt before joining the tea ceremony...

You have a higher Int than I do though

The half elf follows.

A good question Styfis, and I see that each player can individually choose whether to attend the ceremony or not. So if you would each please let me know whether you will attend or carry out some other action during that time, let me know.

As the Pathfinders change their clothes or discuss creating further defenses, a bell sounds from the great hall and those attending the tea ceremony make their way into the large room.

The servants have done a fine job cleaning the room and setting up a table with the vessels and utensils laid out for an elaborate tea ceremony. After seating themselves at the gesture of one of the servants, the other soon opens the door, allowing Amasa to enter the room along with an elderly Tian man clad in the ceremonial armor of a samurai warrior. Despite his advanced age, his eyes are sharp as the Pathfinders rise from their seats respectfully. Amasa nods as those in attendance carry out that respectful gesture (though she made sure you had memorized it yesterday) and speaks introductions with her lilting voice. "Pathfinders, you have the honor of sharing tea with Iko Tsuneo."

The warrior carries his heavy armor with uncanny ease given his age and he speaks openly throughout the ceremony, taking a particular interest in those with obvious ties to good-aligned gods and posing questions that appear to better ascertain the Pathfinder Society's suitability as an ally. He inquires about the positive aspects of serving the Society, such as their roles, their proudest moments and whether its members are rewarded for honorable actions. He also does not balk at inquiring about the darker experiences, such as whether the Society has ever asked its members to kill someone. Finally, he shows a great interest in how the Pathfinder Society treats its allies, asking about other other allegiances outside the Society and how the ways of the Society are different from the Aspis Consortium.

Those attending the tea ceremony should speak in regards to the questions posed in the above paragraph. You can also give me a Diplomacy check (which I might grant a bonus to for good RP and will be affected as well by your manner of dress) which will indicate how well you composed yourself. If you have questions for Iko, your Diplomacy check will also give me an idea of how much information he might give you. Those not attending the tea ceremony can continue building defenses. Because only half of you will be working on defenses, I'm going to double the time it takes to build any particular defense. Based on what I've seen posted by players thus far, you can do the following:

Creating more barricades - No checks needed and you have 4 more 'units' to create barricades in four 5' squares anywhere in the house. Doing so takes 10 minutes of time (per 5' square) and just indicate on the map where you want them. As mentioned in a previous post, the barricade acts as a sturdy door.

Build the catapult and place it outside the house - This requires a Craft (untrained or Carpentry) check to use 5' worth of furniture to manufacture spare parts and a Disable Device check to put it together. It takes one hour to build, and rerolls are allowed, though each one uses 5' more of material and adds 15 more minutes to building it.

Placing the bear traps - No checks needed and figure it'd only take about 5 minutes each to do so. Just indicate where on the map you are placing them.

Building traps along the path leading to house - Give me some idea of what you plan to do and I'll take a Disable Device check. Figure it's going to take at least an hour, maybe more depending on what you're planning.

Note that you may or may not have time to do everything you'd like. So let me know order of preference. Again, all those not attending the tea ceremony will be working together on the defenses, so you can't split your time up any further than that.

diplomacy: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (15) - 1 = 14
Red has never been skilled at schmoozing, but he is respectful, and answers the man's questions as best he can.
"Sir, my philosophy has always been to try to work for the betterment of all. Most of my particular missions have put me in the role of body guard, making sure someone more important than me gets where they need to go or gets back from it in one piece." He takes a thoughtful sip of tea. "But my proudest moments have come when I've been able to help folks in dire straits." if pressed, he'll talk a bit about the Blackros twins who were to be enslaved by fetchlings, leaving out details of how that came to be a problem for them "It has been a privilege to serve this organization and to become part of something larger, something dedicated to the betterment of us all."
He drinks a little more tea as others at the table share there stories as well. He's a little startled at Tsuneo's question about assassination. "No, sir, I've never been asked to kill anyone, though I have had to do so in protecting myself and my charges. The way I see it, I've never hurt anyone that didn't ask for it through corrupt deeds."
Asked about their treatment of allies, he responds, "Sir, I can honestly say, that honoring our obligations to our allies is one of our highest priorities. The Aspis uses enemies and allies alike for profit and power. Their words mean nothing. As soon as a better deal comes along, they'll discard an ally like..." He glances around the table. "Like used tea leaves." Again, he's not the best diplomat, but he is sincere.

"Hail and well met, Iko Tsuneo! I am honoured to make your acquaintance!" She gives the man a bow and takes her seat. "I am Lovissa, of the line of Halenbane. Daughter of Mergerice, and Granddaughter of Abrenica and Ferdinand! Famous Pathfinders, all! I am a wanderer at heart, and explorer! A discoverer of history, both epic and small! My deeds are many and my legend is great! I am the saviour of Janira Gavix and Balenor Forsend, Slayer of the Minotaur of the Kortos Caverns, Hero of Diobel, Investigator for the city of Ridonport, as well as it's Hero and Saviour, Victor of the Battle of Arnisant House, and Honoured Patron of Arnisant House Museum! I am chronicler of the Battle of Dehu Inu, imprisoner of the shadow demon Camazotz, Honourary Sister of the Ekujae, and liberator of the Magnifiecent Guardian and Ancient Consciousness: Glorymane!"

As he asks his questions, Lovissa grins. "My role? Hmmm... A fair question. I have performed a wide array of roles. Archaeologist, explorer, diplomatic ambassador, spy, and hero, of course. May a times have I rescued those in need."

"My proudest moment! Ah! Now, there's a tale. A few months ago I was tasked with serving as an ambassador to the Ekujae elves of the Mwangi expanse. During the mission we came to find that the Aspis Consortium were taking some of them as slaves. We rescued those we could, and buried those we could not. Many do not know that the Ekujae cannot touch the dead after a certain amount of time has passed. They are unclean. So those Ekujae who were left unburied were considered cursed and unable to rest peacefully. We were able to retrieve, cleanse, and bury the dead, saving their souls, and calming the spirits of their loved ones still living." She nods. "A simple task, I suppose, but important. Later, on that same mission we discovered that a nearby cave held a great evil., which was seeping across the Ekujae's lands. Their people were haunted by it. My companions and I sought it out and found that Old Mage Jatembe had once imprisoned the demon lord Camazotz within, through powerful rituals. In the time since the seals had weakened, and his evil had infected the surrounding people. The dead rose, and some Ekujae had become monsters. Although it was my companions who defeated Camazotz' servants, I discerned and performed the ritual necessary to lock his spirit away. The ceremony strengthened the protective wards, an cleansed the land of evil. The dead no longer walk there, and even the most tainted by his evil have healed and are no longer under his sway. I also destroyed the evil altars, which should buy the region at least another hundred years of peace." She grins widely. "I hope to return again in my old age, to ensure the ritual is empowered again before I pass from this world."

"Rewards? Yes, I we are rewarded for our honourable actions, but that is not what I seek. The opportunity to forge a legend of my own, to perform acts that bring me honour, to explore the unknown, and to travel the world, are the only rewards I have ever desired."

"Have I ever been asked to kill someone? No. I have not. I have killed, of course. But, never have I been tasked to kill. I am no assassin."

"How do we treat our allies? With respect and honour, of course! When our agents and allies are in need we assist them, no matter the danger. Such is why I travelled to the Mwangi Expanse. We do the same for others outside of our allies, as well. I have prevented dangerous drugs from being distributed throughout the Inner Sea. I have rooted out political corruption in the town of Ridonport and saved the town from undead spirits. I imagine each of my allies has done some good for our allies, or the world at large."

When it is Lovissa's turn to ask questions she grins. "I wish to hear your legend, Iko Tsuneo. For a man is more than a name and a face and pretty words. A man is their deeds. Their actions. I would like to hear your story from your own lips. It would give me great honour." She seems genuinely interested. "And I would like to know what you feel is your greatest accomplishment."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16

So in order I would say:

1. Place the bear traps (they're here and we only have to use them): I propose to place them around 100 meter from house near near a path.

2. Creating more barricades: I propose to barricades the 2 windows on the first floor and the three ones on the stage on the same side of the building as the main door.

3. The catapult: and I propose to place it in the corner of the house on the lighthouse's side (in the zone in black on the plan). then it's good if we can have a try.
Craft (untrained): 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16
Disable Device: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (1) + 15 = 16

4. Create traps: it could be a spiked pit on the path. I let others propose something else.
Disable Device: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (10) + 15 = 25

And we also have to boil some water to pour from A5 onto the ones who would like to attack the door. That is to do first. In the end we can place it where to handle it.

And finally I'm thinking about using the oil to light the lighthouse. The night will come and to see something, for example on the cliff side, it would be better to have this light. I don't know how to protect this side.

As he sees Iko Tsuneo, the archer remains with a deep look. The hour is important. A lot of things are to be done. A warrior like this old man must be agree with the idea that somebody doesn't assist to a ceremony to handle with things which can do that the ones who assist to the tea ceremony will come alive from there.

I'm sorry, sir. I must continue my work, for your protection and the one of the people who will be with you. We have to be prepared. That's also this, Pathfinder to be.

Having training as a monk and being familiar with Tian culture he will go to the tea ceremony.

Greetings Revered and Honored One. I am known as Greyson. Though a member of the Pathfinder Society and Liberty's Edge my training is also in the monastic tradition. I have taken and passed and have trained in Tar Kuata. he states.

Kyroden will aid those in building traps. Aid Another

Arin will attend the tea ceremony.

Despite all of the instructions and warnings from Amasa, Arin enters the tea ceremony with the contented mind for a new kind of experience, and to meet this respected man.

He notes the man's interest in those following good-aligned gods, making a calm admission of his own unclear situation when it's his turn to demonstrate his character.

I wish it were that simple for me. You see, I've been either blessed or cursed with divine influence, but by what power I cannot say. It could be an angelic, altruistic god or a demon of the abyss. It could be a protean prankster, or perhaps one god more aligned with the gnomes. The blessings are the spells and abilities I have, and the curse is that I lose the ability to speak and comprehend the common tongue in stressful times.

When asked about his role with the Society, he explains simply. My role is simple. I'm an agent who can fit many teams in a strong supporting role. I heal the wounded, I inflict aggressors with woeful banes, I distribute the blessings of my unknown patrons to my teammates. Nothing overly notable, if I'm being honest.

When asked about his proudest moment he ponders his answer at length, almost prompting others to move on from him. I don't know that there is any one overwhelming moment. I find the most meaning when my team is presented with a great challenge and we have to talk it through and then support each other through executing that plan. Once... He proceeds to tell the story of sun orchid elixir and the plan his team mounted to stage a fake raid, and test the security of a nation in protecting it's sole economic resource.

After much detail, he ends briefly with, Yes, both the Society and the nations we aid reward us for our actions. No, we haven't been asked to kill anyone. He chuckles to himself at the last bit.

Iko, sir, a question: I have spent all of my time as an agent searching for meaning and purpose, trying to interpret the will of an unknown divine patron. How have you found meaning in your efforts over the years? From within? From others?

diplomacy, guidance: 1d20 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 4 + 1 = 23

Both Red and Lovissa do an admirable job of speaking thoughtfully to the ancient samurai, and though he speaks sparingly of himself, he shares some of his own experiences and those at the table are able eo understand and appreciate his deep sense of honor. Though Amasa seems a bit nervous as Arin begins to speak of possible demonic influence to his powers, the gnome hits his stride well and their host seems very satisfied with the way that all of the Pathfinders have handled themselves during the ceremony.

In the meantime, Styfis and Kyroden continue to work on defenses, and after an hour or so they have managed to create a few more barricades, set up the bear traps and are nearly halfway through construction of the catapult when they hear shouts from one of the servants running quickly up the path passing them both as he darts into the house. Following, the two are present as he whispers in Amasa's ear as the others are relaxing after a peaceful tea ceremony.

The venture captain stiffens and her eyes widen as she looks first at the Pathfinders, then at Iko. "My Lord Iko, my servant has informed that there is trouble at the pier. I'm afraid your ship has been set to fire, your men captured and some put to the sword..." The samurai stands abruptly, his expression hardening and with Amasa and the other Pathfinders following, heads outside, passing through the entry door where the barricade is ready to be positioned at a moment's notice. The misty rain blocks direct view of the sunset as the sky darkens with the coming night. But a warm, reddish-orange glow brightens the horizon to the south, glowing brighter and brighter by the second. The glow isn’t the sunset — it’s coming from the pier, where Iko's ship is burning into the sea.

"Treachery! The Pathfinder Society has betrayed us!" But Amasa speaks soothingly, staying calm and collected as she explains other possibilities and points out that the Pathfinders even now stand firm with their ally, and soon Iko sees the truth. The Golden League has arrived...

Player's Map - Slide #1

If you would, please indicate on the map where you have placed the barricades. The bear traps will likely better serve you either in the house or just outside, so indicate where you place those too, if you would. Let me know what you plan to do, as it will take about another half-hour to complete the catapult, probably less if you all pitch in together. The boiling water idea is possible as well, though you will need to boil enough water in a pot using the fireplace. Let me know of any other things you wish to do, including the idea of lighting the fire in the lighthouse (which still needs to be done) or anything else. You likely don't have time to create a spiked pit trap along the path, but the catapult will be a good way to cover that route.

Red likes the idea of firing up the lighthouse. "I'd help with the catapult, but too many cooks in the kitchen... I'd just be in the way." But with a little oil, it shouldn't be too hard to light the tower, right?
he can help push barricades and what-not but he's not skilled in siege warfare

Firing the catapult requires a 3-man crew with one 'leader' who uses BAB + INT for the attack rolls.

I think two first things now are:

1. Boil some water and let the servants to watch out on it. Styfis tells them to bring it in Area A5 once the assault will come.

2. Light the lighthouse with the oil.

Then finish the catapult. If possible have a try as well !

Well it means that I suppose I should be the one who fires (+4BAB, +5INT = +9)

Styfis remains quiet when the old man accused the Pathfinders of Treachery. But the old one was lucky that the elf was an elf and not a dwarf. Otherwise he would have react in other manner to such a shame. The reaction of the old one wasn't worthy of respect.

As the other one were relaxing during the time Kyroden and himself were doing their job, Styfis tells the others Pathfinder what remains to be done.

ok, the bear's trap as set nearer the house. I would say near the windows of A2 and the other side of the house.

Sounds like a good plan

No comment on the monk's story?

Sounds like a good plan. What other roles besides catapult support are needed? Arin will gladly help with any job but would like a minute before the enemies arrive for buffing.

What do you need him to do?

Sorry Gray, I overlooked your post! You made a fine impression (though you didn't actually roll a Diplomacy check that I saw.)

I think that after the catapult shot(s) we will defend the house. So we have to organize ourselves therefor. I think the archer should be at the stage. To GM: when the lighthouse lights around do we see well and far away? We are six. I propose that two are at the stage and four on the main floor. I will be in A5 because of the holes. Then somebody with me to pour the boiling water through the holes. On the main floor I think that two should be prepared to receive the ones who will try to come through the door and two others on the side's rooms for the same purpose. What do you think? Better plan? Oh and who is able to cure our wounds?

Arin with Cure Light Wounds, channel positive energy, and energy body all for curing. Also a wand of CLW.

Great! I suppose you should stay more in the middle because not a lot of offensive potential, right?

Not a lot of *damage*, but decent debuffing: Doom/Bane

So perhaps you stay near the secret door, ready to go to help during the three others are near the main door, in area A2 and A3. What do you think?

makes sense.

sounds like a plan
After having lit the fire for the lighthouse, Red has one more important thing to try and he may need some back-up here if anyone would like to aid him or make their own rolls.
"Lady Amasa, Lord Tsuneo, I think it would be best if you and your retainers stayed hidden below." Sensing that Iko might be opposed to this, he adds, "Not only are you important, sir, but we will be focused on the enemy, and you're help in protecting Lady Amasa would be invaluable."
diplomacy: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (13) - 1 = 12

Arin sets up up casually in the middle of the first floor of the house.

The calm before the storm... he mutters at room-volume, for anybody or no-one at all to hear.

When red makes his appeal to Iko, he adds in Yes, we have a lot of ground to cover and protect here. Everybody has important roles.

Diplomacy, aid Red, DC10: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (13) + 4 = 17

Arin goes over useful actions in his head, awaiting the storm...

When it's clear it is beginning, Arin will cast Bless.

He is real good and hiding and his sneak attacks can be pretty deadly. I have him based off of Nightwing from DC

Lovissa will help fire the catapult since it takes a team to do so. Where exactly is it set up?

Then when its time to head inside she'll be on the main floor, ready to fight off intruders. She's a melee combatant, and a healer when she has to be.

If there's the time right before we get into battle (in the house) she'll cast lead blades on herself (3 minute duration), and use her legacy weapon ability on her longsword to give it an extra +1 enhancement bonus (1 minute duration)).

How many different types of things are we preparing to fight?

Can someone use this scroll of eldritch armor on me please? he inquires.

Lovissa examines the scroll, then attempts to use it on Gray.

Spellcraft: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (14) + 12 = 26
Use Magic Device: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25

"Yup! There you go, Gray." She hands back the spent scroll.

As the Pathfinders make their preparations, Red goes to the great hall where Iko, Amasa and her servants have retreated. He finds them in discussion when he arrives, and even as he starts to speak his warning he realizes it isn't needed.

"...can summon this assistance, but I need time. I charge you with granting me this time." The old samurai is saying. Amasa nods, then seeing Red enter she turns to face him. "Tell your allies that your team must defend the house while Iko summons help from his allies. We cannot tell you how much time he will need, but you must hold off the invaders for as long as you can."

Iko is already moving to the fireplace, pushing the button your party noted earlier and opening the secret passage beyond. Amasa spares him a quick glance, and then continues. "I must go with Iko and defend him as necessary while he is... indisposed. I will take my servants with me, as they have no place in this fight." She reaches out and grips Red's shoulder tightly, her face grim and tight. "Do not fail us, Pathfinders. Find a way to grant us the time we need. When you have no choice, follow us through this passage and down the stairs. As I told you earlier, it leads straight to a hidden grotto at the base of the cliffs where the rock meets the sea."

Turning away, she follows the samurai through the opening, motioning for her servants to precede her. Then Amasa slips through after a long last look at Red before shutting the secret door entirely, leaving no trace of their passage.

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

While some of the Pathfinders work on the catapult, others work on boiling water and getting the oil up to the top of the lighthouse. After nearly an hour, they manage to get everything done. The boiling water is in place to pour onto any troops coming through the main entry doors, barricades are set up, the lighthouse lamp is glowing brightly, and the catapult is in position with to strike at anyone coming up the path.

Unfortunately, the coming night and misty rain makes visibility very poor, though the lamp from the lighthouse helps to some degree, lighting up the area within 100 feet of the house quite well. Further, the overconfident troops marching up the path from the docks don't do themselves any favors. Row upon row of torches can be seen, perhaps two or three dozen and probably more glow like distant fireflies through the light rain that favors the enemy with concealment.

Styfis is confident he can make the catapult work in theory - so long as he has the help of two others - despite his unfamiliarity with siege engines in general. Styfis, please roll me a d20 check (as mentioned, BAB + INT) to fire on the enemy as they approach, as they are conveniently providing you a nice target with their torches - at least for the moment. That leaves the other Pathfinders present to find somewhere else to station themselves as the enemy approaches, should they desire to do so...

Defenses needing placement on map
Four 5' sections of barricade (acts as a typical stuck door).
2 bear traps (will attack a single target that steps in the square).

Defenses in place
Front doors (A1) are barricaded.
Bay windows in great hall (A3) are barricaded.
Murder holes and boiling water in spare room (A5) ready to pour on troops in entry area (A1).
Pit trap in master bedroom (A6).
Lighthouse tower is lit, providing 100' of illumination in all directions.
Catapult positioned to sling ammunition downslope along the path.

Player's Map - Slide #1

I have put some barricade and bear trap icons on the map, please place them where you want them (I have already place the ones at the front door and windows), you have four 5' squares worth of barricade material to use. I've now also put your portraits on the side of the map. Those of you not helping with the catapult can place yourselves in the house if you'd like, or just tell me where you're going and what you're doing as the enemy approaches. The enemy is still a good distance away and the house is not in danger of being invaded yet, I'll let those at the catapult know when they'll need to abandon their post in order to get inside in time. Let me know if I missed any questions that haven't been answered or if you have any others. Note that you don't know the strength of the enemy exactly, nor exactly what you're up against (no scouting of the enemy was indicated as part of your preparations).

I don't know if I need a perception check

Two of you with me. We fire with the catapult until when we have to go in the house. I go then to the stage. Please one of you with me. Then others to defend the main floor.

Perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (1) + 12 = 13
Catapult: 1d20 + 4 + 5 ⇒ (19) + 4 + 5 = 28

I set on the map the traps and barricades. Simply tell if you have a better idea.

I want him to keep to the shadows and hit and run on these guys

Red returns Amasa's grave look with a nod. "We won't fail you," he says. But he does hope they complete their task quickly. He pops out to let the others know the specifics of the mission as of now. "We keep the enemy out of the house. We don't need to hold out forever, just long enough."
so Styfis, Lovissa and Gray Son are on the catapult, is that correct? I believe my best position will be in the tower where I can get a clear shot at whoever comes in range (as long as they don't shoot fireballs up there)