In your first mission as a Pathfinder agent, the head of the Grand Lodge sends you on a number of missions throughout the metropolis of Absalom, pitting you against traps, thieves, and even an unruly devil, all in the pursuit of knowledge.
"My boudoir." she says with a broad, sly smile. "And the object of your quest. You are looking for a small puzzle box of diabolically intricate design. I would suggest not trying to open it I were you. I've tried myself, but have not gotten very far and am through trying for the moment."
"You must like that word a lot--'other-worldly'. I don't know what relevance is has to anything we've been discussing. It's just a bed chamber not another plane of existence. Unless of course you haven't ever been in a woman's bed chamber. In which case, well, I have such sights to show you. If it is a sort of catch phrase like: 'dine-o-mite', or 'kiss my grits' might I suggest going back to the drawing board." Zarta says in a disappointed tone to Ramachandra. "Honestly it is as if you've been here before and given the same tired and uninformed admonition."
Turning to Esper she says: "The box is (hopefully) not the cause of the clamor. The cause of the noise is merely a sulking servant. Be dears and deal with it, would you? It currently has Ambrus's box after all. And we wouldn't want it damaged, would we?" She steps over to her desk, grabs up a sharp silver letter opener and tosses it handle first to Einarr. "Here. You might need it."
not sure if I would be able to tell a silver letter opener compared to a shiny steel one. so not sure if I would need a perception or appraise check.
perception on letter opener:1d20 ⇒ 17
Doughlas raises an eyebrow and asks, "What do you mean by 'It' my Lady?" Fearing the answer would be like the blasted necromancers in Ustalav loosing control of their abominations.
NG Ranger 3 (divine tracker, trapper, wild stalker) (HP:31/31)(AC:17(19 w Shield) T:12 FF:15)(F:+6 R:+6 W:+3)(Init:+3)(Per:+8)(CMD: 18)
REF:1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
Einarr deftly grabs the letter opener tossed to him. He smirks to the others after a display of his skill. "Any of yous good with this pointy.... toothpick...?"
Female Gnome Warpriest 4 | AC 17/12/16 | HP 35/35 | F+6, R+2,W+7 | CMD 15 | Speed 20’ | Init+7, Perception+5, Sense Motive+8 | Lowlight vision.
”Well, I’ll take it, if no one else wants to use it. We always should be prepared, so...” she takes the blade and sticks it in her belt. ”Let’s go get our box and get back to it. It could be a long day if we tarry too long.”
CG Male half-elf rogue 8 | HP 67/67 | AC: 21 T:17 FF:15 | F +4 R +12 W +2 (+2 vs. enchantments) | Init +12 | Perc +13 | Low-light vision | Trapfinding +4
"Well, before we go barging in there, maybe I can get a peak of what's making that noise." Tathane moves to the adjoining door and tries to open it just a crack without attracting the attention of whatever is making the noise. He tilts his head sideways to look through the opening.
"Damaged? No, we don't want that..." Esper remarks.
As the others hand the letter opener back and forth, and move to the door, Esper remarks to the Paracountess. "I've always believed it's the responsibility of those with power--fine souls, such as yourself--to offer safety and protection to those around them. Their servants. Their countrymen. ...Even across borders. Would you be interested in such a widespread undertaking? I have someone I'd love to put you into contact with."
Diplomacy:1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22
GM:
Passing the DC 15 to recruit Zarta to the Sovereign Court.
Then she smiles, gives a little nod, and rejoins her companions a the door.
Yeah, ready to check out what she's got hiding in her bedroom.
NG Ranger 3 (divine tracker, trapper, wild stalker) (HP:31/31)(AC:17(19 w Shield) T:12 FF:15)(F:+6 R:+6 W:+3)(Init:+3)(Per:+8)(CMD: 18)
"How we doing this....? Just bust in and swing at anything while charging? Or we going in all quiet like?" Einarr asks the others as he hefts his axe...
not sure if I would be able to tell a silver letter opener compared to a shiny steel one. so not sure if I would need a perception or appraise check.
Appraise seems the more likely choice. It seems to be silver though you are unsure of what it might fetch at market.
Doughlas wrote:
Doughlas raises an eyebrow and asks, "What do you mean by 'It' my Lady?" Fearing the answer would be like the blasted necromancers in Ustalav loosing control of their abominations.
Zarta smiles. "I refer you to your party's expert in the 'other-worldly'." She waves toward Ramachandra. "I could tell you precisely of course, but I doubt he would believe me anyway."
Perrine Ravella wrote:
”Well, I’ll take it, if no one else wants to use it. We always should be prepared, so...” she takes the blade and sticks it in her belt. ”Let’s go get our box and get back to it. It could be a long day if we tarry too long.”
The letter opener seems a bit big and sharp for it's stated purpose. You could use it as a medium-sized dagger.
Tathane Halfbarrel wrote:
"Well, before we go barging in there, maybe I can get a peak of what's making that noise." Tathane moves to the adjoining door and tries to open it just a crack without attracting the attention of whatever is making the noise. He tilts his head sideways to look through the opening.
*Creeeeeak!*
Esper Zevral wrote:
"Damaged? No, we don't want that..." Esper remarks.
As the others hand the letter opener back and forth, and move to the door, Esper remarks to the Paracountess. "I've always believed it's the responsibility of those with power--fine souls, such as yourself--to offer safety and protection to those around them. Their servants. Their countrymen. ...Even across borders. Would you be interested in such a widespread undertaking? I have someone I'd love to put you into contact with."
"Of course." Zarta draws Esper over to the table and chairs for a minute or two's conversation.
Hearing the creak of her bed chamber door the Paracountess says: "Don't you just love these quaint old homes. You can tell where people are by the creak of the doors and floors. Would you like something to drink--?" She waits for Esper to supply a her name.
Esper follows Zarta to the table and takes a seat.
"Esper Zevral. Thank you for allowing me the honour, Paracountess."
She casts a worried glance at the bedroom door, in case her attention is needed by her companions. Returning her gaze to Zarta, she smiles gently. "You'll pardon me, if I need to cut our conversation short in order to lend some assistance."
While the others are distracted, Esper continues, "Nobility, diplomats, ambassadors; all have great power and ambition. But, even the best and brightest can be stymied by those above. It is my desire that the greatest, most deserving minds of our generation can join together--united under a common philosophy of excellence, progress, and ambition--to direct our nations toward prosperity and peace. Together."
She draws a simple white card from the folds of her dress. "You understand the need for subtly, of course." Then she slides it across the table. Upon one side is a red and gold phoenix. "If you're interested in hearing more about the Court, you know where to find me. There are many among our number who hold you in high esteem."
And I assume I have to leap up and fight some foul devil or monster Zarta keeps in her bedroom now... Haha.
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
BINGO. Still it could be worse if you know where the image of the box is from. Map updated.
dice:
1d20 + 11 ⇒ (17) + 11 = 28
Tathane Halfbarrel wrote:
"Well, before we go barging in there, maybe I can get a peak of what's making that noise." Tathane moves to the adjoining door and tries to open it just a crack without attracting the attention of whatever is making the noise. He tilts his head sideways to look through the opening.
Zarta’s bed—err, tortu—err rumpus(!) room is decorated in the colors of Cheliax—ebon black and crimson red. Silk, rare woods, and carefully carved marble compose every bit of furniture in the room. Goose down now litters the room, covering almost every surface and the silken shreds of the cushions that contained it lie about like flayed skin. A post on the massive screened bed is snapped in half, collapsed on the bed and drawing the screened curtains into a ripped slope of formerly fine cloth. Vials of perfume and crystal jars of other cosmetics sit smashed on the marble floor around the dresser. A prominent fixture in the room, a large “X” made of stout wood sits along the west wall, complete with leather shackles and chains. A table sits to its left strewn with various items intended for pleasure, but outwardly resembling implements of pain.
Above the far side of the bed hovers a tiny, little, red gargoyle. Seeing Tathane's head poke through it hisses a terrifying challenge for something so small and tosses a heavy crystal vial him.
The heavy crystal vial shatters to pieces against the wall next to Tathane's head, spraying his face with jagged bits of glass, and perfume, filling the air with a cloying peach scent. The diabolical creature hisses again, and dives for cover amid the ruins of the bed. Total cover. Tathane feels a line of blood trickle down his cheek. -2 hp.
Each character THAT SEES THE CREATURE (so just Tathane right now) may make one knowledge check. Open all the spoilers that apply.
knowledge (planes) DC 12+:
The tiny winged grotesque is an outsider to this world--a lawful evil imp from the pits of Hell!
knowledge (planes) DC 17+:
Specifically it is among the least of the true devils, mischievous nuisances among even their own kind they often are summoned to this world to serve as spies and familiars for wizards, witches and sorcerers. They excel in this role because of their myriad of magical abilities that allow them to disguise themselves as ordinary animals or even turn completely invisible. Imps are resistant to weapons not made of silver, or blessed by the powers of good.
knowledge (planes) DC 22+:
While most seem to serve willingly, their ultimate goal is to corrupt the souls of all they encounter, so that one day those souls might be dragged to Hell. As venomous as their words their scorpion tails contain a paralytic poison.
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
CG Male half-elf rogue 8 | HP 67/67 | AC: 21 T:17 FF:15 | F +4 R +12 W +2 (+2 vs. enchantments) | Init +12 | Perc +13 | Low-light vision | Trapfinding +4
Tathane grimaces at the creaking of the door. So much for being quiet. His scan of the room shows him more than he thinks he ever wanted to know about the Paracountess. He tries to duck out quickly when the bottle flies at him but isn't quite quick enough.
He steps back from the crack in the door and closes it. With his back to the door, he wipes the trickle of blood off his face.
"Whoa! That's quite a room! And, you guessed it, it's not empty. One of you burly types needs to lead the way, I think." Tathane eyes Einarr and wiggles his eyebrows. "You up for it?"
NG Ranger 3 (divine tracker, trapper, wild stalker) (HP:31/31)(AC:17(19 w Shield) T:12 FF:15)(F:+6 R:+6 W:+3)(Init:+3)(Per:+8)(CMD: 18)
"OK little man.. out of the way." Einarr says to Tathane. "Time for axe diplomacy!" and the ulfen walks past the thief entering the room with his shield up and his axe at the ready.
double move to the far side of the bed to get closer to the foe
Perception:1d20 + 6 ⇒ (15) + 6 = 21
and he searches for signs of their foe so as tell alert the others.
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
No sign, though there is a lot of lacy women's underwear, and spilled dresser drawers about.
dice:
Esper:1d20 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 1 = 15
Round 1 (Theme ♬)
The Bold May Act!
_________________
__ [Tiny Grotesque Winged Thing]
__ Einarr
__ Esper
__ Perrine
__ Tathane -2 hp
__ Ramachandra
__ Doughlas
While the others are distracted, Esper continues, "Nobility, diplomats, ambassadors; all have great power and ambition. But, even the best and brightest can be stymied by those above. It is my desire that the greatest, most deserving minds of our generation can join together--united under a common philosophy of excellence, progress, and ambition--to direct our nations toward prosperity and peace. Together."
"And who might these generational savants be exactly?" Zarta asks, not seeming to notice the commotion behind her.
"Before we get to far though, I am absolutely parched so if you don't mind." She gestures to a familiar-looking, spiky-ended chime hanging from the ceiling beside Esper's seat.
Doughlas smiles at the site of the Paracountess' unmentionables but remembers he has more important things to look for. Seeing no immediate threats, Doughlas casts Detect Magic and looks around looking for the noise maker and borrowed box.
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
Doughlas /facepalm, oh yeah cheliax demonologist >_< First time doing a Detect Magic with multiple magical results. Do I say that I now start looking for box shaped auras/items?
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
No, but detect magic does have an area of effect so give me direction you want to concentrate on.
While the others are distracted, Esper continues, "Nobility, diplomats, ambassadors; all have great power and ambition. But, even the best and brightest can be stymied by those above. It is my desire that the greatest, most deserving minds of our generation can join together--united under a common philosophy of excellence, progress, and ambition--to direct our nations toward prosperity and peace. Together."
"And who might these generational savants be exactly?" Zarta asks, not seeming to notice the commotion behind her.
"Before we get to far though, I am absolutely parched so if you don't mind." She gestures to a familiar-looking, spiky-ended chime hanging from the ceiling beside Esper's seat.
Esper smiles. "Progressive souls, with the drive to make a difference, and the subtlety to see it achieved. Nobility, mostly, though not entirely. If you desire specifics I can set up a meeting for you with those more involved and worthy, than myself."
Esper inclines her head. "Of course, Paracountess, but if you'll excuse me, I need to tend to my other duties."
Just an FYI: I don't need line of sight to Einarr to trigger my trick on him. So if he gets harmed she'll trigger it immediately, even during her conversation. Relevant quote if necessary:
"The mesmerist can activate the trick as a free action when a triggering condition is met (as defined in the trick’s description), even if it isn’t his turn. The subject must be within medium range (100 feet + 10 feet per level) for the mesmerist to trigger the trick. The mesmerist monitors for the trick’s triggering condition through a subtle telepathic connection, so he doesn’t need line of sight to trigger it—but anything that blocks telepathic contact prevents him from triggering tricks."
Ramamchandra moves up to the doorway to have a peek inside. He feels a familiar tingle as a tiny nose pokes up from its satchel. Sensing his master's unease, Shashi does what he can to help.
This reminds Ramachandra of his own abilities and he reaches over to touch Tathane.
Shashi casts guidance on Ramachandra.
Ramachandra casts guidance on Tathane.
CG Male half-elf rogue 8 | HP 67/67 | AC: 21 T:17 FF:15 | F +4 R +12 W +2 (+2 vs. enchantments) | Init +12 | Perc +13 | Low-light vision | Trapfinding +4
Tathane let's Einarr pass and then follows in his shadow. He slinks to a corner of the room and pulls out his bow. He takes careful aim then fires at the creature.
Stealth:1d20 + 7 ⇒ (16) + 7 = 23Trying to stay in cover from the garg.
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
Doughlas wrote:
Doughlas takes a closer look at the foot locker by the foot area of the bed with his Detect Magic.
Added a marker for your spell to the map.
Tathane The little gargoyle thing (about the size of a small cat) has currently hidden itself somewhere (in the vicinity of the bed at last view). So at present there is no shot to be had. Also, just as reminder Rama cast guidance upon Tathane. feel free to restate your actions.
Esper spoiler noted. Thanks. I own that book, but have I had more than 5 minutes with it--no.
Esper smiles. "Progressive souls, with the drive to make a difference, and the subtlety to see it achieved. Nobility, mostly, though not entirely. If you desire specifics I can set up a meeting for you with those more involved and worthy, than myself."
Esper inclines her head. "Of course, Paracountess, but if you'll excuse me, I need to tend to my other duties."
"But here I thought this was important to you. You've only spoken in generalities and platitudes. I am sure there is something there, under the skein as it were, but I'm afraid you'll have to give me more information if I am to make an informed decision."
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
Round 1 (Theme ♬)
The Bold May Act!
_________________
__ [Tiny Grotesque Winged Thing]
__ Einarr
__ Esper kibitzing w Zarta
__ Perrine
__ Tathane -2 hp, no shot available at present, can restate actions
__ Ramachandra
__ Doughlas
CG Male half-elf rogue 8 | HP 67/67 | AC: 21 T:17 FF:15 | F +4 R +12 W +2 (+2 vs. enchantments) | Init +12 | Perc +13 | Low-light vision | Trapfinding +4
Redoing
Tathane runs to the corner by the door and takes out his bow. He nocks an arrow and points in the general direction of where he saw the little gargoyle beast. "If that thing shows itself, I'm going to shoot it!" he says to no one in particular.
I legitimately have no further information to offer her. Haha. "I am here to act as a conduit, Paracountess. A personal invitation. If your interest is piqued, allow me to put you into contact with someone who can discuss the issue in depth."
She'll be leaving the conversation to rejoin initiative (when possible).
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
dice (Gods, those are some terrible rolls! 1 out of 7 >10):
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
Esper Zevral wrote:
I legitimately have no further information to offer her. Haha.
"I am here to act as a conduit, Paracountess. A personal invitation. If your interest is piqued, allow me to put you into contact with someone who can discuss the issue in depth."
She'll be leaving the conversation to rejoin initiative (when possible).
That is actually up to Esper. She got a great roll, but technically she can't make the roll until at least a minute has passed from the beginning of her attempt at diplomacy (longer at GM discretion--a great example of this lies in the Middle-East). Tathane triggered the encounter just before she began her attempt (that damn creaky door), which put us into 6 second combat rounds. So Esper can break off the conversation, but doing so at this point will ultimately have some influence upon the result.
"I like to know whom I'm dealing with--personally, you understand." Zarta says putting her hand upon Esper's.
With Detect Magic Doughlas braves looking under the bed. "Too many magical auras for my untrained butt to pinpoint the imp or box. Was hoping to find the box so we can make a run for it while keeping the imp locked in here."
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
Doughlas:
There are no magic items in that direction. And who said anything about an imp? ;)
Einarr readies an action in the event he is threatened or if the little foe tries to fly past him... fine OK.. or if one of his companions is threatened as well...
Decent at hiding. Seems we may need to shed some light on the problem.
Ready to use stardust if Rama can see the creature.
Stardust (Sp): As a standard action, the shaman causes stardust to materialize around one creature within 30 feet. This stardust causes the target to shed light as a candle, and it cannot benefit from concealment or any invisibility effects. The creature takes a –1 penalty on attack rolls and sight-based Perception checks. This penalty to attack rolls and Perception checks increases by 1 at 4th level and every 4 levels thereafter, to a maximum of –6 at 20th level. This effect lasts for a number of rounds equal to half the shaman’s level (minimum 1). Sightless creatures cannot be affected by this ability. The shaman can use this ability a number of times per day equal to 3 + her Charisma modifier.
Oh, if she has to hit the whole minute, she's definitely leaving the conversation. She's not putting it above her mission. She'll try to return later to finish her goal at the end of the scenario.
"Then allow me to return later this evening, after my duties are complete, to speak with you further."
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
Doughlas gets down upon hands and knees (prone) to inspect the dark space beneath the bed. The stimulated magical cones in his sorcerer's eyes being sensitive to the mythical 8th color, Octarine--the Colour of Magic. despite this and aside from some animate dust bunnies there is little magic to be seen.
Assuming Tathane remains readied....
The World's Most Interesting GM wrote:
The room is deathly quiet.... Tathane (who is standing ready) can hear beads of sweat forming on his temples.
Tathane recoils. The thing chomps down upon the space that were the rogue's head had been a moment before.
Reflexively Tathane let's fly with his arrow, but it goes wide. using your previous rolls. The thing though lashes out with its no-doubt venom-soaked mouth again, and again misses.
Suddenly, the creature is enveloped in an aura of scintillating starlight as Ramachandra hits the thing in the face at point-blank range with his star shaman power. No second AoO - apparently it doesn't have combat reflexes.
Doughlas, Einarr, Perrine, Ramachandra:
The giant 150lb spider crawling down the wall toward Tathane's head looks like a new threat, but it might be the same threat that Tathane saw. You are able to see through the veil of its magical disguise and possibly make the skill check needed to identify your foe (see the link for the tiny grotesque below).
Round 3 (Theme ♬)
The Bold May Act!
_________________
__ [Tiny Grotesque Winged Thing]
__ [150 lb. Spider Thing] (Knowledge (Nature) DC 11+)
__ Einarr
__ Esper
__ Perrine
__ Tathane -2 hp
__ Ramachandra
__ Doughlas prone
He doesn't believe in 'game balance'. Gandalf always lets him pass. As a feat, he has Exotic Weapon Proficiency (beard). The city guard often question him, just because they find him so interesting. His dice bag is woven from tarrasque leather. His TPKs end game lines. His blood cures moderate wounds. He once punched a flumph. Yes, you heard me. He belongs to a prestige class whose sole requirement for entry is just being him. ♬ He is indeed, the most interesting GM in the world. ♬
will save:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (14) + 4 = 18
The giant spider seems unaffected by Ramamchandra's colorful kaleidoscopic spell.
