GM Doom 'n Gloom: The Cyphermage Dilemma (Inactive)

Game Master TriShadow

As you finish your debrief with Venture-Captain Calisro Benarry, he hands you each an envelope. "You next mission. We have another mission to the north. Given your success here, I have decided to recommend you for this next assignment. It's just up the coast. You will stop in Magnimar to meet with Venture Captain Heidmarch before reaching your final destination. An exciting town called Riddleport." Without waiting to see how you feel about this, Benarry continues, "You have a few days until your transport leaves. You'll be on that boat for a while, so enjoy the solid land while you can. Good work, and good luck."

Kenta catches up to the ship when they have a short layover in the nation of Nidal.

He boards and gives his three allies big hugs and then re-introduces an old friend, "Looks like Itami wasn't quite done with us after all!"

Dressed in a basic traveling outfit, you can clearly see a well crafted form fitting breastplate covering his chest. He is heavily armed as strapped to his back is a large 2-handed sword and at his waist are two longswords. The only other thing of note is an obviously visible brand on his forearm with the word "FREEDOM" tattooed over it.

An old man glowers at the Venture Captian as they apathetically deliver their message. Wordlessly, he leaves as grumpily as he left. What am I, hourly?

Aboard the ship, Itami mostly keeps to himself. Anyone who spends more than a minute watching him quickly realizes that silently judging the crew is quite possibly his only pastime. Notably, he does seem to warm up when the other Pathifnders are around.

When Kenta strides aboard though, he practically jumps to his feet and embraces his friend. "Your brazen zeal has yet to kill you!" he says with a smile, the first any of the crew has ever seen. Judging by the lack of wrinkles around this expression, it seems to be a rare phenomenon. Adjusting his sash, he continues. "Time is naught before the bond of family."

Kenta has no clue what brazen zeal means, though he has heard the z-word thrown around when referencing how he devours his meals at the lodge. But being able to CHOOSE his meals gives him quite a thrill still so he usually gulps down everything happily.

He definitely smiles at the reaction though, "Still here, goddess willing at least. Anyone have a clue about the mission other than the note?"

Hiiragi leans in to see her friends and grins widely. "I thought I recognized the creaking of familiar joints," she teases. "We have much to catch up on, old friend; for example..."

She reaches back and shoves Ikari forward.

"This guy got himself ordained!"

Ikari growls softly at Hiiragi's shove, but turns and grins at her before facing Itami and Kenta. "It is true, brothers. I walk the road with you in order to carry Daikitsu's word to Golarion and beyond. Daikitsu's children who share the journey with me need never feel weary."

Ikari explains his new abilities to his old friends - see profile for details.

Kenta eyes Ikari and smiles, "Congratulations!"

When the fox is talking about all sorts of community and farming things, he leans in and whispers to Hiiragi, "what does hordaned mean?"

Hiiragi grins; ”In other words, he is now a priest of Daikitsu; he borrows Her power and serves Her, spreading Her message as I do,” she explains.

Kenta opens his mouth to speak, then stops to think his words over a bit.

I thought that only ladies could be Daikitsu Priestesses. But I guess guys can also be priestesses? Or would they be Priests? The more I learn about all this other culture religion stuff... or is it my culture that I just never knew existed? Anyway, the more I learn, the more I realize I don't know anything. Maybe I should listen instead of talk? Then ask questions?

He refocuses and waits for Ikari to finish his tail*, trying to pay attention and remember any questions he had at the end. Only one sticks in his mind, "So you can do this group prayer thing for everyone? I think I'd like to witness that. I might learn something new about your faith."

* ;)

Itami shakes his head. "My condolences," he says, placing a comforting hand on Ikari's shoulder.

"Now there are two of you." He sighs deeply. Now we'll have shenanigans at twice the rate.

"I've my own religious practices, wouldn't be right to cross them. I won't hold you from your group prayer though, maybe these old, creaky bones," he says while throwing a look at Hiiragi and exaggerating the stiffness in his back, "can prepare some tea while you do," he offers. Leaning heavily on his staff, he shakily carries an invisible tray to the Priestess.

I have missed this :D

Hiiragi curtsies. "Of course, elderly one," she says, taking the invisible teacup and taking a sip. "Mm, excellent. Do see about getting that wheezing attended to," she says, as her visage transforms into that of a scowling noblewoman, "it is most impolite."

The corners of her mouth twitch after a moment, and then she bursts with laughter. "If your bones are damaged, I believe it is my fault. Ikari complained about his ribs for two days after that hug."

A moment, then: "Of course, he is now quite capable of giving his own big hugs now."

Toshiko wanders in. You Pathfinder types really like your clubhouses, don't you?

Say, I heard tea. Any chance you can make that a tea from a long island?

Yeah, clunky I know. Sorry.

"Toshiko, I have dire news: you've wandered into a teahouse and there isn't a drop of the brew in that sort of thing!" Itami says with a smile. "It truly has been too long my brothers and sisters. Unfortunately, the Society is a cruel mistress and we should be on our way."

Straightening out his billowing clothes with his thin arms, he stands by the gangplank. Staring back at his friends, gathered in one place again, he looks pleased.

Toshiko looks saddened, but moves to join Itami.

Kenta settles onto the ship and they head out. He spends a bit of time wistfully looking back the way they came, before trying to refocus on the mission ahead of them.

Your voyage to Magnimar is remarkably of any difficulties. Even Toshiko was able to make friends with the cook, who as it turns out had a steady supply of fermented libation. Arriving shortly after nightfall, you made your way to the Pathfinder lodge. A beautiful mansion set on a nearly an acre in the fashionable part of the city. Before dawn, you are summoned to your mission briefing.

The light from the rising sun performs a splendid dance upon the windows of Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch’s Magnimarian manor house as she pours the coffee. Her young servant brings in a platter of pastries and fruits before the Venture-Captain begins to speak about the mission at hand in her distinctively low, breathy voice.

“As I’m sure you’re well aware, much of the reason Riddleport was founded where it was is because of its easily defendable position as well as the enigmatic Cyphergate, which has baffled scholars since its discovery. The Pathfinder Society has a keen interest in the Thassilonian monument as well, since solving its mysteries would undoubtedly unlock a number of other secrets regarding that lost empire. The Order of the Cyphers has been amassing support from outside sources for some years now, and scholars from all over the Inner Sea have come to aid Elias Tammerhawk and the cyphermages.”

Heidmarch takes a bite out of a chocolate-filled biscuit before continuing. “Just recently, however, we received word from Elias himself that several of the visiting scholars haven’t arrived in Riddleport Bay as expected. It seems as though a band of raiders, led by the Vudran pirate Alejia Netrav, has been intercepting the ships at sea, killing the crews, and destroying the ships. While Riddleport is hardly a stranger to the likes of pirates, Overlord Cromarcky has declared it illegal for any ships that wish to return to Riddleport Harbor to attack ships bearing the Riddleport flag. Alejia’s ship is clearly coming from Riddleport—the attacks all took place just outside Riddleport Harbor—but attempts to identify her ship have been unsuccessful so far.”

“I needn’t explain to you that the Pathfinder Society is also very much interested in the secrets of the Cyphergate, and that the deaths of these knowledgeable scholars have severely hindered progress in unraveling the artifact’s mysteries. The unexplained attacks are beginning to wear on the other sailors of Riddleport as well, and if something isn’t done about the matter soon, there will be no shortage of civil unrest, if not anarchy.”

“In a few days, a ship called the Topaz Titan is scheduled to arrive in Riddleport Harbor from Minkai, bearing the acclaimed Tian scholar Hirako Gurukaza—who is also a former member of our Society. We fear that he may be Alejia’s next target, and your task is to prevent her assault at all costs, both ensuring Hirako’s safety and shoring up our relationship with Tammerhawk.”

”I have heard rumors that some of Alejia’s cronies have been storing their stolen goods somewhere in the Wharf District, so that might be a good place to start your investigation. While in Riddleport, keep a low profile and try to avoid pulling any of the crimelords into the situation. Tammerhawk would appreciate discretion and subtlety if possible. Regardless, there is littletime to waste, as there is no knowing exactly when the pirates will choose to strike the Topaz Titan.”

Seated, Itami slowly eats several handfuls of berries throughout Heidmarch's address. As she begins to add constraints on their overarching task, he pulls out a sheet of paper and takes note of each. For the next minute or two after she concludes, he continues writing and finally hands a sheet titled "Notes for Kenta" over to him. "This might help when you're wondering about what to do," he says with a small smirk.

While his brother reads the note, he takes the chance to ask a few questions. "What other crime lords do you know of and what areas of the industry of discretion do they favor? Do they have turf, or is it more economically focused? Who is their 'bogeyman' in the law enforcement? Do you have any official warrants or other papers on hand that we could look over? Are there any players that might have a vested interest in keeping these scholars away? Any known associates, investors, or other allies to Alejia and her crew?"

Itami is quite verbose today. I'm sure that's a good sign.

"Venture Captain, how are we to defend a ship against pirates when that ship is still at sea and we are here on land? Do you propose a rapid rendezvous with the Topaz Titan?”

She listens to Itami's thoughtful questions before responding, though she does grin at one point. "Riddleport, serves as a safe harbor for mercenaries, thieves, bandits and pirates of all types. Indeed, if it were not for the Cyphergate, the city would have nearly no redeeming qualities to speak of at all. That said, there are signs that some ruling hierarchy exists within the town. Otherwise chaos would reign and rioting would fill the streets. Riots are bad for business. Because there is no money to be made in them, the powers that be tend to quell them." She pauses a moment to make certain she has their attention, "As to who they are or how to find them? Those are depths you are not yet prepared to swim. There will be no writs, warrants or other 'governmental' aid provided."

She turns to Ikari, "Given the dangers involved, we do not want you on the Titan at all. Seasoned crews have gone mission or been murdered. No, I will not be putting you needlessly in harm's way. You'll head to Riddleport and seek out a solution from there."

Is there anyone else who might be able to help us?
“Elias is a powerful figurehead in Riddleport, but his rivalry with Overlord Cromarcky is well known; few would seek to get involved in their complicated feud. Cromarcky’s direct underlings and the peacekeepers of the town, the Riddleport Gendarmes, know of the troubles the Order of the Cyphers has been facing as of late, but they are hesitant to do anything about it, as they fear punishment for helping Elias. Elias himself wishes to keep this investigation as discreet as possible, and have it dealt with immediately.”

Does Alejia have any allegiances we should know about?
“While she is a lowly pirate, Alejia possesses more enemies than friends in Riddleport, having backstabbed many business partners to get to where she is now. Her sudden disappearance and recent activities have only spurred public resentment of her, and many would like to see her dead. In any case, don’t be surprised if your investigation gets you entangled with some of her less savory ex-associates.”

How should we get to Riddleport?
“Trade between Magnimar and Riddleport is strong at present, and there are ships leaving several times a day to traverse the Varisian Gulf for the City of Cyphers. I have arranged passage for you on a Taldan cargo ship called the Opparan Opal that will be leaving within the hour. Hurry to the docks, and you’ll be in Riddleport before you know it.”

ANy other questions or purchases?

Itami, I am so glad you're back, this is great

Hiiragi sips at the coffee offered, and taps her chin. A Minkaian herself, she tries to recall if she knows anything about Hirako Gurukaza.

She probably does not.

And if she did, it would likely be irrelevant to the mission.

"So, wait. We're meant to prevent a battle on the sea from the land, between two ships who will likely have already departed their respective harbors? Or have I made an assumption somewhere in there?" asks Hiiragi.

"Very well, thank you," Itami says graciously to Heidmarch.

He gently nudges Kenta with his elbow and brings his face in close to the other's ear. "Let me know if you need help sounding some of that out, ok?" he says patronizingly with a sideways look.
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Ready to push off! I missed y'all too ;)

Kenta reads the notes given to him and takes a deep breath, "Oh I know, I do many bad things for the sake of good. Killing others is bad, but it has to be done if..." he tries to think of the right phrase "...lethal force is threatened? I think that is the right words. I've been working with my mentor to learn all the legal terms. I don't think I can lie though. Honesty is too important. What value would my word have if I could just lie whenever it was easier? That's also why I like all you guys, you never lie to me or in my presence." He gives a big smile. "I'll try to be sneaky though, that's just smart. At least until we catch the thieves in the act and give them a chance to surrender."

After assuring Kenta that the team have never ever lied him, you make your way down to the ship Heidmarch reserved. After a relatively quick overnight journey, you find yourselves at the Riddleport docks.

Aside from being a haven for those criminals and ruffians who find living elsewhere undesirable or impossible, Riddleport also attracts some of the most ambitious scholars in the Inner Sea region, who come to study the massive and mysterious Cyphergate. This Thassilonian arch spans the harbor and features indecipherable runes that many believe hold ancient secrets beyond the understanding of modern magicians.

”I have heard rumors that some of Alejia’s cronies have been storing their stolen goods somewhere in the Wharf District, so that might be a good place to start your investigation. While in Riddleport, keep a low profile and try to avoid pulling any of the crimelords into the situation. Tammerhawk would appreciate discretion and subtlety if possible.

"I'll be but a moment," Itami says with a wink. Hunching over and leaning heavily onto his staff, he wades into the mass of sailors for several minutes. Asking some questions here, listening to a juicy conversation there, he eventually hobbles back to the group.

"Fruitful, where to begin..." he says as way of greeting. "The Topaz titan is due in two days, there's our clock. Wharf District has gone to s&+% over the years, could use some cleaning up from the law enforcement," he starts. "Although we must leave that for another day. Lots of hush money and a rotation of for-hire dockhands have been going around near a building at the edge of the district. Even heard of pirates taking a prisoner into the very same warehouse."

He then straightens himself out and stands normally, giving the others the chance to mull over his words.
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Gather Information: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (19) + 11 = 30
Can't fail the DC 10 check! GM, does Itami know where the warehouse is? Or enough about the location to narrow down our search?

Kenta sneaks quietly off the ship, footfalls as soft as the morning dew.

Stealth - ACP: 1d20 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 2 - 2 = 15

From his hiding spot he listens through Itami's breakdown of the situation. Seems the old reformed sinner has come back to us with perfect timing, a blessing for sure!

Stepping over he whispers, "Then there is no time to waste, let us seek out that prisoner. Quietly now."

Time?: 1d4 ⇒ 1

The team waits for nearly an hour. Just as Hiiragi is on the brink of concern, the ancient sorcerer materializes from the crowded dock. Realizing that time is of the essence, Itami gathers the band and heads to the southwestern edge of the harbor.

The foul, mucky weather is enough to make any possible source of refuge look at least a little more hospitable, but the tattered sides of this rundown building have clearly seen better days. The waterlogged boards that hold it up have numerous holes that have been boarded over with newer planks. The warehouse’s few windows are high off the ground and intermittently broken; those still intact are far too grimy to see through anyway. While the building itself hardly looks like a viable base of operations, a flicker of light can be seen from within. The east and west loading doors are closed, as well as the narrower south door, which has a sliding peep-hole built into it at eye level.

The map is updated. We are on slide #1. Shiela Heidmarch, the region and some images of Riddleport are on slide #3.

Itami wears his human shape amongst the dockworkers and ne'er-do-wells of Riddleport.

"Ha! Who knew that Brother Itami could be such a social butterfly? Please join me in a short prayer, and then I think we should decide whether further subterfuge is possible."

I suggest Kenta and Hiiragi form the caravan bond.

Toshiko is at home on the docks. Now this is a place I understand. Not like your lodges and harpy caves.

"Think you can bluff your way into this warehouse, Toshiko?"

Itami makes a face at Ikari. "Sometimes listening quietly is all that is needed for people to talk," he pokes back. Easier to talk to strangers when family is nearby, everyone knows that!

"I have magic to help too," he adds when Ikari questions Toshiko. "What's the plan?"
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Wouldn't use it as primary, but if Toshiko doesn't have much luck, Itami could Charm Person and/or use stealth/invisibility to sneak in.

”I can offer Daikitsu’s aid for your tongue,” offers Hiiragi, gravitating toward Ikari for the prayer.

Enhanced Diplomacy should be helpful here! It’s a cantrip, so take it whenever you’d like c:

Sorry I’ve been so quiet! Should start having more time soon!

So, waiting to hear on a plan. Don't forget to place yourselves on the map when you want to move forward.

Kenta slips out of his hiding place when Itami returns, "Great job, I was getting worried. Let's go rescue that prisoner." He quietly pads along behind the old man, heading to the warehouse.

Upon arrival he continues whispering, "So we have pirates inside with a prisoner. What are we waiting for? Let's get on in there, give them a chance to surrender and go from there. The more time we waste the bigger the chance they hurt whoever they have."

'Get on in there' implies that Kenta supports talking their way in (not lying though), picking the lock or busting the door down. If none of those things happen soon, he'll just walk up to the door and knock with the backup plan of hitting the door until it breaks.

Better be decisive before Ole Yeller dives down the well himself... No lying though... Hrmmm...

"Someone knock on the door. The first goon that opens it, I'll target with my spell of Friend-Making. If it works, we'll schmooze our way in and out. Otherwise, our ever-so-blunt hammer will take to the ever-present nails. I can even try putting people to sleep if things go South. Work for everyone and their delicate sensibilities?" Itami asks. Should have kept the whole prisoner bit on the down-low, then Kenta could have gone fishing for a red herring while we get to business shackle-free.

Kenta nods, the plan seems to be smart. He sneaks up while thanking his goddess for her blessing.

Thanks for bringing back the old fox to us!

Placed him in position to be the requisite hammer when if things go south. No weapons out.

I'll give it a go. What's the worst that can happen?

Toshiko advances to the door and gives it a knock. If an eye appears she'll begin to speak.

Hi. I was sent by Captain Bluster. He sent me to pick up the package.

Bluff?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

Itami merely sighs and turns his head to watch Kenta's response.

Kenta gets a concerned look on his face, trying to figure out what is going on. That doesn't sound like what we were doing...

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9

...but I must have missed that part of the briefing. Maybe the Venture Captain set this up? I guess the package could be the prisoner. Maybe this will work.

The wanna-be-righteous Fox doesn't speak up, waiting as per the plan. His hand twitches towards his sword, but doesn't yet grab it.

___________________

I put all our pieces in a decent spot on the map, I think. Check on yours and adjust if necessary.

A sliding peephole opens up after a minute or so of pounding."Ain't no Captain Bluster here. You got the wrong door ya lubber. Shove off!"

Seeing a possible opening, Itami draws from his inner arcane energy and mimes casting a net over the person looking through the peephole. Might get us in the door anyways...
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GM, would Itami be able to get a Charm Person (DC 18) off through the peephole? No worries if not, but figured it was worth a shot!

I'd be willing to say a DC 12 Perception to see him enough to give that a try.

Itami smiles widely as his new best friend recognizes him. "Why hello there! Itami, as I'm sure you remember. I am so sorry to disturb you while you are working, but some of my other friends," he says, gesturing to the others, "are here to pick up the fellow that was brought while blindfolded. This location has been compromised, you see, and we have another location to take him to. Please, prepare him for relocation and my fellows shall escort him. It is, however, imperative that you lot stay here to keep up the ruse, you understand?" Cozying up to the door up, he whispers further, "Word is there will be an attack here tonight and we cannot risk being discovered!"

His opening pitch concluded, he feigns surprise. "Where are my manners? Please, introduce yourself to my companions, I would do so, however I'm afraid I couldn't do an introduction for a man of your esteem justice," he concedes, bowing his head. Gods I lay it on thick sometimes. If it wasn't for the magic I'd be up a damn creek. Quite out of practice.
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Perception, DC 12: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 1 = 3
REROLL! (2 Stars): 1d20 + 1 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 1 + 2 = 23
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (11) + 11 = 22
Out of curiosity, GM, how did you arrive at a 12 for the DC?

The peep hole snaps shut. A heavy thump beyond the door allows one to imagination a thick wooden bar that had been blocking the portal. The door opens, "An attack? Not totally unexpected, but still. Any word which of the cap'n's enemies might be responsible?" He hurriedly looks up and down the causeway before waving the team in. "Come on! Hurry. Hurry. " The door slams closed behind the last pathfinder. "Name's Basto. Thanks fer comin'. You guys all trying to get yerselves on Cap'n Alejia's crew? There's enough of us here now, we can make a stand 'gaint anyone fool enough ta come at us. Were sure to make her regular crew then, AmIright?"

I will update the map tonight.

The map has been updated here. Place yourselves between the black and green icons. 'Basto' is the BLACK icon.

Basto nods his head at the other tough leaning warily against the crates. "That's Gip." Basto pats Itami on the back like a long lost friend, "Gozreh's Trident! It sure is good to see you. Like, I honestly cannot remember the last time I laid eyes on you. Anyway, glad yer here." He walks over to Toshiko, "Sorry toots. Had no idea you were buds with my main man there."

Nicely done, brother.

"This isn't the whole 'crew' though, is it fellas? We have to move the prisoner, but you ought to see about readying defences, no?"

Ikari gives the toughs a friendly grin. "Eh, shipmates?" he winks.

btw GM, I've switched out the Hide from Undead spell I prepped for the last mission with the more standard choice of Shield of Faith. Seems like we had time between Magnimar and Riddleport. Hope that's ok.

Not a problem.

Kenta moves inside, looking for the prisoner and keeping himself close enough to act. He seems very confused at the newly discovered relationship between his ally and these pirates. He waits to see if more will be revealed and looks around for the prisoner.

Hiiragi enters, looking every bit like the piratey sort she did not so long ago; these folks seem more likely to appreciate that than a humble-yet-suspiciously-yolked shrine maiden, after all.

Keep forgetting to prep my spells; Air Bubble seems... unlikely to be useful, here.

But we are lacking our usual bard, so I'll swap that for Bless.

"A pleasure, Gip," Itami says with a bow before turning to Basto, laying a hand on his shoulder, and smiling warmly. "It has been too long!"

"Unfortunately, we must get down to 'brass tacks' as it were. How many men are here with you?" he asks seriously. Regardless of the number Basto says, he scowls at the ground and rubs his chin.

"That may not be enough... I've heard it isn't just one of her enemies who has it out for her," he explains vaguely, giving Basto a knowing look, hoping his imagination will fill in the rest. "I think the best way to get into Captain Alejia's crew is to keep the captive safe at all costs. We can take them with us to another safehouse while a skeleton crew remains here. Once an attack happens, they can flee and meet back up with the group. Crewmen who're tough are easy to find, but craftiness? Now that makes for a valuable find!"

Now, turning to Gip. "I know you've only just met me, and that might understandably put you on edge. Why don't you send Basto, someone you trust, with us, for your own peace of mind?"
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Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24
GM, if you prefer a bluff check, it is the same modifier.

Basto starts to wave the team on behind him before Gip calls out. "Hey, what are you thinkin'? The cap'n was pretty clear. Keep the gir-...er cargo stays right here, no matter what. We can't go movin 'er...uh...it." While suspicious, Gip seems to accept the recent activities as little more than weird.

With a snap of his fingers, Basto comes to a halt. He turns around, and points back towards the crewman as he addresses the pathfinders. "Gips's right Itami my man. Boss lady says we gotta keep the 'cargo' safely stowed here. Still, I can give yer friends the three copper tour 'n show you what we got planned fer anyone trying ta get in here." Basto makes his way around the maze of large boxes. As they walk, he points out some of the other men who have climbed up to the top of the crates. "Those guys wait up there for some shmuck to come walking through. Then, with a push, WHAMOO! Poor sucker is crushed like a grape! Pretty smart huh?" You come to a clearing of sorts. There is a table set up with playing cards and poker chips. There is no kidnap victim in sight.

Map updated. You may place yourself anywhere not 'grayed out'.