Each of you have received an urgent missive from Venture Captain Sheila Heidmarch summoning you to the Pathfinder Lodge in Magnimar. You gather your belongings and make your way to the lodge.
Time for character introductions and getting your character profiles up-to-date. I intend to post the initial mission briefing on Sunday night, just prior to the official kickoff on Monday, August 13, i.e. 1 week from today.
Male CN Elf Vigilante (Warlock) 2 | HP 17/17 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | CMB +2, CMD 14 | F: +1, R: +7, W: +3 | Init: +4 | Perc: +4, SM: +4 | Speed 30ft | Spells: 1st 3/3 | Active conditions: None
Simiel picks up his summons. He holds it in his right hand tapping it on his right thigh as he considers his actions. He nods seeming to have reached a conclusion. With a slight grunt he lifts his backpack onto his shoulders and closes the door to his small office as he moves out into the street and off to the offices of Venture-Captain Heidmarch
In case you haven't noticed, I have included a link to maps and images for this scenario both in my profile (i.e. that's a live link under my name). That link is also part of the campaign profile and can be found at the top of any webpage within the campaign/discussion/gameplay/etc. The first two pages of that doc currently shows "Where in Golarion" and a few other relevant images.
Male CN Halfling Rogue 3| HP 25/25| AC 19 T 15 FF 16 | CMB +1, CMD 15 | F: +4, R: +7, W: +2 | Init: +5 | Perc: +8, SM: +4 | Speed 30 ft | Active conditions: None.
A sturdy looking halfling wanders into the group's general area and leaks a cursory smile at everyone. He circles a bit to announce his presence and then leans against the wall.
"I'm Jaretti. I'm supposed to meet someone here. Sheila Heidmarch? I guess that's what we are all doing, right?"
As you eye your fellow agents from the relative comfort of the common room in the Pathfinder Lodge in Magnimar, a door leading deeper into the lodge bangs open and Sheila Heidmarch enters the room with a flourish, striding purposely forward with a regal air. She then looks around at each of you, waiting for someone to speak up. Without waiting very long at all, she sighs and flounces into a chair before speaking.
“Well that's enough small talk. A rather interesting carnival, the Umbra Carnival, is making a stop in Ilsurian this upcoming month. It is a rather curious carnival. Most notably, it proclaims to have a baby dragon and a gynosphinx—-rather unusual creatures to serve humans in any capacity, much less as carnival attractions. I would like you to go to Ilsurian, make notes on your impressions of the town. I also want you to attend this carnival and find out what you can about both the dragon and the gynosphinx. Do not tarry too long. I expect your report within 2 days of the Carnival departing Ilsurian."
She gets up and heads back toward the door through which she entered, then pauses at the threshold and seems to add almost as if in afterthought:
"Oh, and while you’re in Ilsurian, please stop by the local pawn shop, the Locked Box. My fourth-best pearl tiara, an invaluable family heirloom I assure you, somehow managed to end up in its shop window. Never mind how it got there. Believe me, the team responsible for that mishap is on a much less pleasant task than visiting a carnival and enjoying some fried dough. You'll find the claim ticket in the envelope on the coffee table, along with your tickets for the Carnival as well as for passage upriver on The Slippery Mermaid.”
With that, Sheila Heidmarch turns to exit. She ignores any questions you might have with a wave of her hand. Just before slamming the door behind her, she says, "This is a simple task. I'm sure you can manage it on your own..." Her sigh is audible even through the closed door.
Male CN Elf Vigilante (Warlock) 2 | HP 17/17 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | CMB +2, CMD 14 | F: +1, R: +7, W: +3 | Init: +4 | Perc: +4, SM: +4 | Speed 30ft | Spells: 1st 3/3 | Active conditions: None
Well, seems simple enough. Shall we venture forth and get this over and done with? Simiel moves to the door, assuming that others will follow. He points to the envelope. Someone get that, would you.
I am still toying with ideas for how to explain Simiel's disappearances and Dexus's appearances and vice versa. I'll get them hammered out so I can RP them when needed.
You may make any purchases you'd like while in Magnimar (Fame restrictions apply, per usual PFS rules).
As you make your final preparations before heading to the docks to catch your riverboat, you may attempt to learn a few things about your intended destination.
Knowledge Local or Diplomacy (gather intel):Ilsurian
DC 5:
Ilsurian is a trading town in central Varisia, situated on the bank of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River.
DC 15:
Ilsurian is a trading town in central Varisia, situated on the bank of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River. Many of the inhabitants of the town descended from ethnic Chelaxians, and most of them have the strong features, pale skin, and dark hair of that group. Most also harbor prejudice against the native Varisians, and believe the stereotypes that Varisians are thieves and layabouts.
DC 25:
Ilsurian is a trading town in central Varisia, situated on the bank of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River. Many of the inhabitants of the town descended from ethnic Chelaxians, and most of them have the strong features, pale skin, and dark hair of that group. Most also harbor prejudice against the native Varisians, and believe the stereotypes that Varisians are thieves and layabouts. The town was named for its founder Ilsur, a Knight of Aroden from the city of Korvosa. With the crumbling of the Chelish Empire, Ilsur wanted a militant-leaning meritocracy to replace noble rule in Korvosa, but had to eventually concede defeat roughly 80 years ago. He marched his troops to the west bank of the Skull River where it empties into Lake Syrantula, and awaited a chance to return and seize Korvosa by military force. He died waiting for the opportunity, and his army gradually transformed into a strong community of independent fishers and foresters.
Knowledge Local or Diplomacy (gather intel): The Umbra Carnival
DC 5:
“A traveling carnival? Beware my friend! These things are just a front for criminal activity. The games are rigged, the sideshows are farcical and the food is filthy. Sure the women are comely, but their welcome smiles and scant costumes are a distraction for the menfolk to cut your purse. My cousin got lured behind a wagon by a likely wench and got his head cracked open for his trouble. Blasted dancers! Now he’s dumb and broke. Trust me, keep your distance!”
DC 10:
“Traveling carnivals are wicked fun! Even if you don’t have much coin, there’s always something to see. Harrowers, savage beasts, all manner of freaks and the dancing ladies—oh my! The smell of perfume, roasting meat and pipeweed makes me delightfully dizzy. There’s usually a good fight to watch, too. My uncle told me about this time he won 10 gold Sails wrestling Khoshut the Backbreaker, an exiled Shoanti warchief. I only wish they came more often.”
DC 15:
The Umbra Carnival is one of the many traveling shows that circulate around Varisian towns and cities providing entertainment in exchange for a bit of coin. Some believe these troupes are a front for Sczarni crime families who fleece as many locals as they can before hitting the road ahead of an angry mob. They feature freakshows, games of skill and chance, a menagerie of exotic or dangerous creatures, acrobats, musicians and fortune-tellers. The workers are often all part of an extended family, but there are always a few collected castoffs of society.
DC 20:
The Umbra Carnival began over ten years ago. It grew gradually into the size of a small village, with a diverse array of attractions and amusements from all over Avistan. The sincere intent of the carnival is to provide much-needed entertainment at a price communities can afford. One of the center-stage attractions is Jherizhana, a sphinx captured in Thuvia and bought by the carnival.
DC 25:
The former adventurer Almara Delisen founded the Umbra Carnival over a decade ago. She uses her illusion magic as the centerpiece of a traveling show that passes through small towns starved for entertainment and a glimpse of life beyond their borders. With time, other performers, acts, and attractions joined her circus— lost souls and lonely hearts, eager to see the world or leave some part of it behind.
Male CN Elf Vigilante (Warlock) 2 | HP 17/17 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | CMB +2, CMD 14 | F: +1, R: +7, W: +3 | Init: +4 | Perc: +4, SM: +4 | Speed 30ft | Spells: 1st 3/3 | Active conditions: None
Simiel has read a lot of books and spends his time while walking combing his memory for either Ilsurian or the carnival.
Kn Local Ilsurian:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9
Kn Local Umbra Carnival:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19
Muttering, as if to himself as he thinks Simiel says Ilsurian, yes. On the banks of Lake Syrantula next to the mouth of Skull River.
A little louder so that everyone can hear him he says Watch your purses at the carnival. They are often fronts for criminal gangs and cutpurses. They can be good spectator sport though, watching fools and their coins be parted.
Male CN Halfling Rogue 3| HP 25/25| AC 19 T 15 FF 16 | CMB +1, CMD 15 | F: +4, R: +7, W: +2 | Init: +5 | Perc: +8, SM: +4 | Speed 30 ft | Active conditions: None.
Jaretti holds his hand out for Centimere to get acquainted.
"Seems easy enough, Sheila." Jaretti mutters in ever decreasing volume as she leaves the room.
"Right then. Well, I need to purchases some supplies for our journey. Don't go too far lady and gents, I'd hate to lose track before we even begin."
Jaretti will travel the streets of Magnimar searching for a fine set of Varisian masterwork thieves tools (100 gp) and information about the upcoming locales
diplomacy to gather info about Ilsurian:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (12) + 7 = 19 diplomacy to gather info about the Carnival:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10
AC 19/T14/FF15 HP 24 /24 F+3 R+5 W+3 Init +1 Perception+5
Dual Cursed Lunar Oracle 3
diplomacy to gather info about Ilsurian:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26 diplomacy to gather info about the Carnival:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (1) + 11 = 12
Whispering under her breath Eroil adds.
"Whenever a Venture Captain says it is an easy task, be ready for the worst!"
AC 20,AC 20, touch 12, flat-footed 19 (+6 armor, +1 Dex, +2 shield, +1 size) hp 21 (2d10+5) Fort +7, Ref +4, Will +2; +2 vs. fear
I am not very good about knowing things or finding out information, but Centimere and I are pretty good at protecting people, especially other halflings he remarks, petting his mount.
Jaretti works the streets of Magnimar and finds himself in a seedy alley, talking with a Varisian acquisitions expert. After exchanging a few pleasantries about the finer details of the craft, the Varisian leads him back further into the alley, past reeking detritus littering the dirt, and around the corner into a tight passage between buildings. It leads to a pristine flagstone courtyard with a garden and a fountain. There's a small pavilion set up, and there he finds some refreshment, and a selection of tools of the trade laid out on a table. Jaretti quickly dismisses the mediocre equipment on display and the Sczarni Varisian nods in approval. He then walks over to a nearby rain barrel and opens up a secret compartment in the lower half. He pulls out a bundle wrapped in oilcloth and carefully lays it out on the table. There is a fine selection of masterwork thieves tools. As Jaretti peruses the equipment and makes his purchase, he mentions the Umbra Carnival and Ilsurian. The Varisian immediately spits on the ground and offers up what could only be a few curses in his native tongue, before expounding on the uptight CHelaxian bigots that run the town of Ilsurian. He adds with a rueful chuckle, "Just the descendants of a failed military expedition..."
Diplo for Rumple:1d20 + 3 ⇒ (17) + 3 = 20 Everyone is welcome to check out DC:25 spoiler on Ilsurian, and through DC:20 on the Umbra Carnival (assuming you share intel). Aurk & Rumple, you're still welcome to make any purchases, but I'm going to move it along a bit...
After a long and uneventful journey upriver, the last leg of which you cross the large Lake Syrantula, you arrive at the docks of Ilsurian late in the afternoon. From the boatmaster, you learn there's only one decent Inn in Ilurian: the Crossroads Inn. He also informs you that he and his crew pretty much just make the run between Magnimar and Ilsurian, stopping at all the little villages along the way. They should be back in a couple weeks to provide your return trip to Magnimar.
Please see the town map. In general just ignore the numbers. The map came from a different source. Mostly added for flavor. That being said, the three relevant details: Crossroads Inn is #10, the Locked Box is #11, you can see the bigtop to the NW. The boatmaster provides easy directions to the Inn (#10) and the Locked Box (#11), though he doesn't know anything useful about the proprietors.
Where to? You could head to Crossroads Inn, or straight to the Locked Box, or straight to the Carnival. Or you could spend a few hours carousing the town (i.e. Diplo (gather intel)/Kn-Local.)
Or feel free to suprise me... :^)
AC 19/T14/FF15 HP 24 /24 F+3 R+5 W+3 Init +1 Perception+5
Dual Cursed Lunar Oracle 3
"Let us start with the inn, I could use a bath and some food after the long journey!"
There she asks around trying to find the latest gossip.
Diplo:1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27
Male CN Dwarf Druid 2.2 | AC 19 (T 12 FF 17) {+4 vs Giant-type} | CMB +3 CMD 15 (FF 13) {Bull Rush 19, Trip 19} | HP 22/22 | Init +2 | Fort +6 Ref +2 Will +6 (+2 vs Poison, Spells, Spell-like Abilities) | Perception +3 (+5 vs Stonework) | Darkvision 60' | 20' Speed | Foothold 6/6 | Conditions: Longstrider (+10' movement/2 hrs)
Aurk eyes the others before the woman enters and gives them their mission. When she leaves he claps his hands and gives a gleeful response. "Carnival. Fun. Baby dragon and 'giaspynxhy' thing."
Aurk clearly doesn't seem to be that bright but looks very tough.
M Dwarf Dwarf |Sorcerer 2 |HP: 22/22 | AC12 T 12 FF 10 | F+4 R+2 W+2 | Init +2 | CMB -2 | CMD 10 | Speed 20 | Perc +1, SM +1
Sorry for the unexpected delay. I believe I am back now.
start of adventure
An odd looking dwarf enters the room. No dwarf could ever be considered scrawny (short yet, but not scrawny!), but this one seems to be an exception. And his skin is paler than normal. Sure, dwarves don't exactly spend a lot of time in the sun, but this one seems to have gotten none at all. And he wears no armor! And isn't carrying an axe! Maybe he's not a dwarf at all? No, he is definitely a dwarf.. but so odd.
"Greetings and salutations, friends and Pathfinders!" OK, he is also loud. He greets each of you with a warm smile and friendly handshake. "The name's Rumple Dergskin, but most people just call me Rumple... or something unpleasant" He adds that last part slowly, with a thoughtful expression on his face as if he were truly puzzled.
M Dwarf Dwarf |Sorcerer 2 |HP: 22/22 | AC12 T 12 FF 10 | F+4 R+2 W+2 | Init +2 | CMB -2 | CMD 10 | Speed 20 | Perc +1, SM +1
too much time passed. Cannot edit. Just continuing
The odd little dwarf greets everyone equally, even Centimere. "Aren't you a fine beast? Truly marvelous. I wonder how long you'd take to fully decay." Then he moves off to greet the next adventurer with equal cheer.
"Oh, a carnival. What fun!" He claps his hands and bounces on his heals slightly. "A dragon? How odd.. you'd think they'd draw more crowds with a vampire or mummy.."
Before departing, Rumple approaches his fellow dwarf. "Threelhammer, my friend. Might I trouble you for a favor? You too, my angel?" he says, glancing at Eroil. "For you see, I have a.... .condition. Please do not use any healing on me and try to keep me out of any positive channeling. I find it very unpleasant. Instead, I would much prefer if you were to use this wand on me, in case anything goes wrong." He hands a wicked looking wand of twisted bone to Aurk. (wand of cause light wounds)
During the voyage, you hear him musing to himself, several times, about how big the cemetery will be and how many generations back it goes.
When they arrive, he nods in agreement with Eroil. "Yes, yes, the inn. What better place to meet people and find out who's dead?"
As you stroll through the town heading for the inn, you take a slightly circuitous route in order to take the pulse of the town and allow Eroil a chance to Gather Information. The entire town is abuzz with excitement because the Umbra Carnival is in town. You hear all sorts of outlandish stories, but the more level-headed citizens describe a motley parade of wagons and dray animals that pulled up on the outskirts of town early this morning. While there is obvious disdain amongst the numerous townies of Chellaxian descent (which is literally about 9 out of 10 locals) for the swarthy Varisians, there is some begrudging respect at the speed and professionalism with which they erected the Carnival, some of which was already open for business.
Indeed as you're chatting with one rather snobbish Chellaxian native, you notice you're strolling past the Locked Box, which has a sign in the door that reads:
CLOSED FOR THE CARNIVAL. PRESSING BUSINESS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY.
Eroil learns that the proprietor of the Locked Box is Archivin Walder, a human male who's Ilsurian’s chief moneylender, and occasionally a reluctant pawnbroker. Archivin is known to be a hard bargainer, though fair in his business dealings. He's rigorous in trying to avoid dealing in stolen goods, and the pawnbroker side of the business is usually about trying to help honest citizens down on their luck. He's married to Agnes Walder, and even when the shop is closed, usually at least 2 guards remain in the shop at all times. There are four guards that actually reside in the shop. Archivin and Agnes live in a separate home, though nobody seems too keen on revealing where that might be, mentioning that Archivin only discusses business in his shop, a stickler to keep his personal and professional life separate.
When you reach the Crossroads Inn, the place appears completely devoid of any activity. When you enter, there's just an ample Ulfen woman working on some darning behind the bar. She smiles and introduces herself, "I am Helga Jormungand, wife of the owner and proprietor of the Crossroads Inn. Velcome.
"Utva, that foolish husband of mine, is at the carnival, vasting our hard-earned coin on those silly games. He can't help himself. Boys vill be boys, eh? But I haff more important things to attend to." She holds up the large sock she's repairing. She pauses a moment to look you all over, and then her eyes light up. "You must be the Heidmarch party. Your rooms are ready. There's stew on the stove, but it'd be better to give it a few more hours; I only just put in the potatoes a little vile ago. You drop your bags offf in your rooms then head offf for the fun and games for a few hours, eh?" She hands over 6 keys with numbers on them, then she shakes her head and mutters to herself "Boys vill be boys."
She waves in parting as she heads into the kitchen. "I go check on stew. Haff fun!"
You find your rooms clean and well-kept, with fresh water in the ewer next to the wash basin, and a clean towel at hand. There's fresh straw in the mattress and all seems to be in order.
What would you like to do next?
Male CN Halfling Rogue 3| HP 25/25| AC 19 T 15 FF 16 | CMB +1, CMD 15 | F: +4, R: +7, W: +2 | Init: +5 | Perc: +8, SM: +4 | Speed 30 ft | Active conditions: None.
Jaretti does a cursory search of his room, then confidently tosses his backpack to the bed. He puts his shiny new tools in his belt pouch (just in case) and closes the door.
"Let's have some fun." He smiles as he returns to the common room.
As you approach the northwest area of town, you hear the joyful shrieks of children cutting through the rising murmur of crowd noise and the mixture of hurdy-gurdies, bells, whistles and other instruments you don't recognize. The scent of deep-fried dough battles with that of savory roasting meat.
A path runs east here from the midway toward the traveling zoo. To the south are booths with pavilion tent tops that provide shade for the games of skill and chance played beneath. Behind them are circus wagons, some clearly only for transportation and equipment, while others are attractions and portable shops for merchants. To the north is a gigantic tent erected on tall poles with a stage curtain pulled shut across its front.
Before you lies...the Midway. Barkers seek to entice the throng of townies into trying their hand at games of luck & skill, promising much, though more often you hear the disappointed "Aww" from the onlookers as yet another contestant fails.
The closest booth is manned by a very large Ulfen man who's wearing a fur loincloth and a horned helm. He's reassuringly patting the shoulders of a small man dressed in local fashion. "Vas a goot try. Perhaps put some ice on that shoulder for a while, eh? Then come back and try again later?"
Beside the strongman stands a 3-foot-wide and 12-foot-high wooden tower crowned with a stuffed lion’s head. At the base is a lever attached to a puck that slides up and down a pole running the length of the tower up into the lion’s head. A heavy, long-handled mallet leans against it.
He sees your group and smiles. "Ah, fellow travellers of the vide vorld! Velcome, velcome. Did you come far to see the wonders of the Umbra Carnival?" He directly addresses Jaretti. "Perhaps you would like to prove your power and passion by taming the savage beast on yon pole. There's nothing more stirring than proving longshanks aren't the only ones who know how to wield a mallet." He suggestively wiggles his eyebrows in comical fashion.
His eyes quickly slide past Eroil and Ankird, settling on Simiel and Rumple. "Or perhaps one of you two would like to try? Only one copper to prove you are worthy..."
The mechanics are obvious: You use the mallet to strike the lever as hard as possible to make the puck slide up the pole, hoping it'll reach the lion's head. Anyone who wants to try, it's a strength check. Only one check allowed per PC.
Male CN Elf Vigilante (Warlock) 2 | HP 17/17 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | CMB +2, CMD 14 | F: +1, R: +7, W: +3 | Init: +4 | Perc: +4, SM: +4 | Speed 30ft | Spells: 1st 3/3 | Active conditions: None
Simiel will drop his backpack in his room, but will retain his spell component pouch and belt pouch. He joins the rest of the party downstairs and walks with them to the carnival. He does not speak, but retains a distant, haughty air as he walks through the streets.
He stands by, looking bored as the barker tries to part suckers from their coins.
M Dwarf Dwarf |Sorcerer 2 |HP: 22/22 | AC12 T 12 FF 10 | F+4 R+2 W+2 | Init +2 | CMB -2 | CMD 10 | Speed 20 | Perc +1, SM +1
The odd little dwarf lets loose a loud laugh. "Ha! I probably cannot even lift that hammer! But for the sake of a good time, I'm willing to give it a go!" Stepping forward nimbly, he stares at the great mallet. Deliberately, he rolls up his sleeves, spits on his hands, and rubs them together. "Right, let's do this!" Grabbing the oversized mallet, he swings it around once or twice in a wobbly, horizontal circle, his tiny body following the mallet unwillingly. Finally, he directs the whirling mallet of doom in an upward arc. It nearly lifts him off the ground, but he somehow manages to keep his footing and strains to direct the thing at the lever.
Male CN Dwarf Druid 2.2 | AC 19 (T 12 FF 17) {+4 vs Giant-type} | CMB +3 CMD 15 (FF 13) {Bull Rush 19, Trip 19} | HP 22/22 | Init +2 | Fort +6 Ref +2 Will +6 (+2 vs Poison, Spells, Spell-like Abilities) | Perception +3 (+5 vs Stonework) | Darkvision 60' | 20' Speed | Foothold 6/6 | Conditions: Longstrider (+10' movement/2 hrs)
Strength:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 2 = 9
Aurk approaches the device, looks down at his club and then at the mallet. He picks up the mallet and raises it. "DOODAT?" He then slams it down but watches the puck barely go anywhere.
He puts the mallet down, grabs his club and coos at it. "Doodat."
Are there penalties for halfling size characters to use the mallet for strength test?
No penalties by RAW.
Aurk picks up the heavy wooden mallet and tests its heft. It looks natural in his hands, but the chirruping of a nearby bird catches his attention as he brings the mallet down, and the puck on the pole feebly slides about halfway up. The lion at the top of the pole lets out a quiet meow and licks its lips in a bored fashion. "Nice try, my bearded friend. Perhaps another time?" The Ulfen man pats Aurk on the shoulder reassuringly.
Eroil steps up and takes a mighty swing, and the puck slides all the way up to the lion's head, though it doesn't quite slide inside the head. The lion lets out a quiet roar, and the Ulfen heartily slaps Eroil on the back. "Well struck, m'lord. Of course I'd expect no less from one of your fine caliber and upbringing. Almost enough to win a prize..." He returns Eroil's copper for his efforts.
When the pale sickly dwarf Rumple steps up to grab the mallet, the Ulfen man gives him a wide berth. He steps further back as Rumple awkwardly spins about before lurching forward to strike hard and true. The barker's face lights up as the puck actually eases its way just inside the lion's head, and it again emits a quiet roar. "My friend, you are full of surprises. Well done!" He hands Rumple what appears to be a small snapdragon firework with a lion's head printed upon its paper wrapper. Game mechanics, it's too small to do anything in combat. Works like a little kid's Snap It firework... Pop Pops image
The Ulfen offers a bright smile to Simiel and the halflings. "Any off you gentlemen care to proof your mettle? Perhaps one off you could bring out the Roar of the King!"
P.S. Ankird, Simiel, head over to the Discussion thread to make a Boon roll.
The little halfling takes careful aim and brings the hammer down with all his might. The puck travels just inside the lion's head--higher than any other contestant thus far--and another mild roar emits from its head. "Well done, my little friend, well done. You haff earned the respect of Narthi Vangkot," he offers a slight bow while handing over a small snap-it firework that looks like a lion's head with it's mane pulled up into a spike. Same deal, mere fluff snapit.
I realize with the Paizo site glitch, folks were having problems posting, but I am going to move this along a bit anyway. Ankird, Simiel you are more than welcome to make a strength check on the "ring-the-bell" game and we'll retro-RP, but I am going to move along.
As you stroll along the midway, you come upon the next booth--actually a mid-sized tent. Inside, three raised runways meet at a point like an arrow beneath a brightly colored pavilion tent. Where the runways meet sits a tall, rectangular box covered in mirrors. Off to one side is a raised speaker’s podium. Posters on makeshift signs depict an attractive woman in a provocative gown and silver mask, with the words THE LOVELY MADAME MASQUE in bold print. There are 4 men armed with saps, one by each runway, and one by the cabinet of mirrors.
A barker calls to the crowd, "This game is as simple as it gets. All it takes is a keen eye, a sharp mind...and 1 silver piece. Each player kicks a silver into the kitty, and the winner takes half the prize money, the rest, of course, goes to the house for expenses." All 5 men take a bow at the word expenses, and many in the crowd chuckle, though some mutter about lazy Varisians expecting to get paid for just standing there.
1 man and 2 women step forward and offer up a silver piece to play.
"Come, come folks, that's hardly enough to entice Madame Masque to emerge. A chance to see such a beauty is worth 1 silver in itself, much less a chance to get paid for the privilege."
The barker spots your group lingering in the back. "You fellas look like you've seen a thing or two, know how things work. How about seeing which of you has sharpest eye and keenest wits. A chance to show up your mates and drink on their coin for the evening!"
Male CN Elf Vigilante (Warlock) 2 | HP 17/17 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | CMB +2, CMD 14 | F: +1, R: +7, W: +3 | Init: +4 | Perc: +4, SM: +4 | Speed 30ft | Spells: 1st 3/3 | Active conditions: None
Simiel steps up, a silver piece in hand. A game of wit, that is my kind of game. Arrogance oozes off him as he swaggers toward the barker. Have my silver bagged and ready to go, will you. I don't want to have to wait for it.
No worries, Ankird. It's not like we're in combat, so we can cope with these interruptions a lot more easily than most tables...
Ankird boldly strides up and grasps the hammer with both hands. He rears back and imagines the striking pad as a goblin's head. He smashes down with a mighty blow and the puck soars up into the lion's head and it gives off a huge roar that attracts the attention of every carnival goer within sight (and probably those who can't see it). The Ulfen positively beams at Ankird as he offers a slight bow of his head and asks, "Might I know your name, my good knight?"
He then reaches into his basket of swag and pulls out a stiff paper crown, and he raises his voice for all to hear. "Hear ye! Hear ye! I, Narthi Vangkot, have the humble honor to present Sir Ankird Softpaws, King of the Umbra Carnival."
He then places the crown upon Ankird's head, and offers a deep heartfelt bow.
Anyone else going to try their hand at Madame Masque's game? Either RP or just a quick yes or no...
Attention It'd be helpful to know if any of your characters are Chellaxian and/or Varisian. (By birth and/or culturally, if that's relevant). If you haven't developed character background yet, no worries. Just need to know if either of those actuallly are part of PC background.
And FYI: there is an element of intolerance that's cooked into this scenario. If it begins to bother anyone, feel free to PM me and I can dial it back. It's endemic, but the amount I bring to the RP can be toned down. (Language will probably be PG, though PG-13 for adult themes)
N.B. I may have PMed some of you, so check your paizo.com inboz. Also, please note I have included a link to maps and images for this scenario in my profile (i.e. that's a live link under my name). That link is also part of the campaign profile and can be found at the top of any webpage within the campaign/discussion/gameplay/etc. The first two pages of that doc currently shows "Where in Golarion" and a few other relevant images.
thanks for the heads up. Feel free to introduce Rumple over on the gameplay thread now, if you have the chance. (briefly describe him as he enters Sheila Heidmarch's office, etc)
AC 20,AC 20, touch 12, flat-footed 19 (+6 armor, +1 Dex, +2 shield, +1 size) hp 21 (2d10+5) Fort +7, Ref +4, Will +2; +2 vs. fear
Stupid site has been giving me problems today and yesterday. It would let me on sometimes and on other times not so much. It would eat my posts as well :(
Paizo tech support is working on getting it stabilized, but we should expect glitches and problems for another day or so...
This is not a new problem: when PbP Gameday happens, there are stability issues. I appreciate your patience, and it should get better. (I my experience, usually there are a couple of windows where instability rears its ugly head during each PbP GD. They can last a day or so, maybe up to 3 if it's bad)
But losing posts can even happen when the site is stable (you can get timed-out/back-track errors that eat your posts, especially if it's a long post, or you get interrupted while writing and time passes before you finish and try to post).
My personal recommendation is developing the following habit:
Before you hit "Submit Post" quickly "Select-All" and then "Copy" as soon as you have your post drafted. (it's a quick "Ctrl-A" then "Ctrl C" in Windows--make certain the cursor is in the text box, of course). Then if it glitches, you'll still have the text. And if it's during an instable period, you may want to just paste it into a word doc and come back later (again, especially if it's a long post).
GMs have been getting updates and apologies from the con organizers regarding the website instability. We could try and migrate the campaign over the rpggeek.com forums (I've played one scenario PbP over there, but never GMed). It's somewhat similar to the paizo boards. But given that I was planning on this running into the second session anyway, I'm inclined to ride this out and pick up the pace once IT has it fixed.
But if all 6 players want to migrate to a more stable forum, we could do so. Feel free to voice your opinion
And just in case this site goes down again, you can reach me at
jfminz[at]gmail[dot]com
Be sure to mention your character name and/or paizo board id if you do email me.
Male CN Dwarf Druid 2.2 | AC 19 (T 12 FF 17) {+4 vs Giant-type} | CMB +3 CMD 15 (FF 13) {Bull Rush 19, Trip 19} | HP 22/22 | Init +2 | Fort +6 Ref +2 Will +6 (+2 vs Poison, Spells, Spell-like Abilities) | Perception +3 (+5 vs Stonework) | Darkvision 60' | 20' Speed | Foothold 6/6 | Conditions: Longstrider (+10' movement/2 hrs)
Yeah. This has been the worst I have seen Piazo's website. Almost 1-1/2 weeks of not be able to post for various reasons.
I'm retired from it now, but I use to build websites and maintain them and I've never seen such a mess for a professional website before that happens on a recurring basis.
I'm posting this both in the gameplay and discussion section, while we have the boards up and running again:
I would like to propose migrating this PbP game to rpggeek website. I would rather not do this, but the repeated paizo site instability leads me to believe it is the better choice. I would like to give you all a say in the matter, and if folks really don't want to move, we can ride this out. You can post your vote here, or email me privately if you prefer. (at jfminz[at}gmail(dot}com). I recommend using email rather than PM, since who knows how long we have access to the site. I'm also reachable on the Pathfinder Discord server. My handle is
Uktar
I’ve gone ahead and created a gameplay thread over at rpggeek. Here’s the link:
GM Uktar's Murder's Mark at RPGGEEK
I’ve posted it as “[CLOSED]” so outside players don’t try & join. If you do want to make the migration, please go over to rpggeek and post a simple “hi” or dot or whatever (use your character name!). If I receive your confirmation we're moving, I’ll post a quick summary of gameplay thus far on the rpggeek thread, and we could re-start. Here’s a link to more info on rpggeek
Rpggeek site is fairly similar to the paizo site in terms of gameplay. All you need to do is create an account and figure out how to do a simple dice roll with modifier. It’s not overly complicated. Feel free to email me at jfminz[at}gmail(dot}com with questions or concerns. I apologize for the inconvenience, but I think once we get over the hump of the transition, we'll be happier over there...
PLEASE NOTE: The url to the gameplay thread is ALSO on the first page of my maps & images gdoc. So if you leave that webpage open, you'll have access to the link.
We'll give the paizo boards one more shot.
But please do check in over at the rpggeek backup thread now.
If the paizo site craps out again, we will be playing over there. Don't want to do it, but it may become necessary, and I want everyone to be ready to for Plan B if the need arises.
This isn't about the Scent ability, it's about Handle Animal and that your Animal Companions are not PCs, i.e. they have very limited "animal" intelligence. If they have not been trained in the Track trick (i.e. someone has not spent weeks teaching them how to use Scent to actually Track a particular scent), you need to "push" them to try and track. It's not that they don't have the scent ability--indeed if on "guard" or told to "attack" someone who just turned invisible, they would do as they're trained and attack the foe that they know is there. But if they haven't been trained to track, you're trying to get them to do something their limited intelligence doesn't understand. It's not that they don't have scent, it's that they don't understand what you're trying to get them to do. Hence the need to "push" them.
If their INT had been bumped to 3 (e.g. with the free-floating stat bump at level 4, iirc) and you could speak with them, I wouldn't worry about being trained in the trick. But at this level, you're trying to get them to do something they don't understand (unless they've been trained...)
FYI: I live in Raleigh/Durham area of North Carolina, and Hurricane Florence is barreling our way. We're far enough inland, it shouldn't be too dangerous, but power outage is a very real possibility...so if I go dark for a time, just check the news and look for reports on how extensive the damage is in Raleigh, and you'll have an idea of when I'll be back online...or just wait for me to re-surface. Seriously, shouldn't be more than a tropical storm for us, but still, wanted to give you the heads up in case I go dark for a bit.
Male CN Dwarf Druid 2.2 | AC 19 (T 12 FF 17) {+4 vs Giant-type} | CMB +3 CMD 15 (FF 13) {Bull Rush 19, Trip 19} | HP 22/22 | Init +2 | Fort +6 Ref +2 Will +6 (+2 vs Poison, Spells, Spell-like Abilities) | Perception +3 (+5 vs Stonework) | Darkvision 60' | 20' Speed | Foothold 6/6 | Conditions: Longstrider (+10' movement/2 hrs)
I guess the same can be said for me. I live in NC as well, Richmond County area. Further South than our GM. Far enough away from the coast I don't expect any flooding, but power outage is a real possibility.
I'm assuming you mean Beast Rider cavalier archetype (not Ranger archetype Beastmaster). You don't want the ranger one...
I would go with Beast Rider over vanilla cavalier. Also it can be combined with the Gendarme archetype if you really want to crank up mounted combat abilities. (i.e. be a Gendarme Beast Rider Cavalier.)
Or if you wanted to focus more on teamwork feats, skip gendarme and consider a 3-level dip into the Hunter class from ACG, at which point your mount has your teamwork feats as well...
Male CN Elf Vigilante (Warlock) 2 | HP 17/17 | AC 17 T 14 FF 13 | CMB +2, CMD 14 | F: +1, R: +7, W: +3 | Init: +4 | Perc: +4, SM: +4 | Speed 30ft | Spells: 1st 3/3 | Active conditions: None
All, I will be at PaizoconAP this coming weekend, then work is sending me to China for just over a week after that. Apologies for the disruption. Feel free to bot and make liberal use of my abilities.
AC 20,AC 20, touch 12, flat-footed 19 (+6 armor, +1 Dex, +2 shield, +1 size) hp 21 (2d10+5) Fort +7, Ref +4, Will +2; +2 vs. fear
This past Saturday my right right started giving me some issues. I thought it would be getting better but today I went to the Urgent Care and the Doctor has made an emergency appointment for tomorrow afternoon at NM Eye Associates. The Urgent Care doctor thinks that my retina may be detached but wants the specialists to take a look at it.
I will keep you apprised of the situation.
Forgive the nudge, but we need to pick up the pace a bit. I've been patient with folks, but I'm going to need to start botting more if we're going to finish before November 19. If you can post more than once a day, that'd be awesome, but I need you to post at least once a day.
thanks,
Uktar
P.S. I'm not trying to be critical of anyone. Y'all were quite patient through the website outages--which obviously robbed us of some momentum--and I appreciate that. Just looking at the calendar and realizing we don't have as much time as I'd like. We should be okay, but an uptick in the pace should cement our finishing the whole module.
P.P.S. I feel a bit hypocritical, since I'm about to hit the road for four days for business--I should be able to stay on top of posting regularly, though Thur may be tough...If DC traffic isn't too bad, I might get online in the afternoon as well as late night. (East Coast US time) We'll see.
