[Gameday IX] GM Dinketry and the Mountain of Sea and Sky (PF2e 2-02) (Inactive)

Game Master dinketry

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After reading the letter, the orc smirks. "Going to set up another lodge. Good thing I like to keep busy."

It's good to see the Society developing new connections and alliances, Nina thought to herself when she received the letter. She packed her bag with some trepidation. This was an important time for her family, but it was also an important time for the Pathfinder Society.

For weeks, Nina had been spying on her political enemies, using druidic powers to wild shape. She knew they were unhappy with her spending so much time with outsiders, especially since the diplomatic incident at the Star-Crossed Court.

They would be moving against her soon, she realized. They just needed an excuse. Would her traveling to Tian Xia be that excuse?

Nina looked out the window and took a few moments to watch the sun set over the Bantu Hills. Little did she know that it would be the last time for a long time.

---

"Em-Nina Jaribu," she introduces to her fellow Pathfinders. She's so used to introducing herself as "Emira Nina Jaribu" that she always slips the first few times when she's with the Pathfinder Society.

The Orc looks over at the human sorceress and nods. "Grum" sounding more of a grunt, but in reality is his name.

Striding along the dock to meet the ship, a well-dressed gnome approaches the group cradling an exquisite lyre in his left arm. He's wearing a tuxedo-length black coat over a chain shirt, while a black top hat covers much of his bright blue hair.

He removes his hat and bows formally to the group. He says cheerily, "Greetings, fellow Pathfinders! Greetings! I am Jeeves. And I'm humbly at your service. It will be my pleasure assisting you on our upcoming journey." He looks around bright-eyed, clearly excited for his latest adventure to begin.

With a flourished bow a male human presents himself. Greetings! I'm Bronz... I'm Patfhinder Kamil Durus, Connoisseur of both Arts and Blade.

Kamil is an handsome well dressed human male. Clearly of chelaxian origin, he strangely has the tan skin of people more accustomed to jungle and sun than Cheliax climax. He moves gracefully into the room, his armor clinging lightly as he walks. His eyes are cold, as his smile, and at his side a blade of Tian origin.

Nina curtsies at each of her companions, in turn.

A rakishly dressed monkey goblin wearing a red beret comes sauntering up to the group,

Greetings to you all my fellow pathfinders. I am the one and only MugVug! I look forward to another journey with such an excellent looking group of adventurers!

He bows deeply at the waist with a flourish of his hand. As he does so, his tail lashes out seemingly of it's own accord. Without MugVug even realizing it, his tail wraps around the ankle of a passing crew member tripping the poor fellow. The assorted sundries the man was carrying go flying, causing another crew member to lose his grip on the rigging he was hauling on to set the sail. With his grip lost, the sail furls out of control causing a chain reaction of chaos and mayhem in MugVug's wake. He straightens with an unknowing smile.

It is my greatest honor to be among such esteemed companions. I have the greatest confidence our mission will be a success.

"THE MugVug? The one who saved Evoking Day and investigated the zombie-infested wreck? It's a pleasure to meet you in person, Nina exclaims.

You have all arrived - either just now, or recently - in Sakakabe, a portside town in southern Minkai bordering the Xidao Gulf. Sakakabe bustles on this clear, humid summer morning (Slide 5). The constant buzz of conversation and commerce echoes over the concentric terraces leading up the hillside from the town’s port. Wagons clatter their way across cobbled streets, their wares bound for export on waiting cargo ships. Oyster boats are returning to port from the north, their nets filled with the morning’s catch. The air smells of brine and seaweed. Fishers and merchants alike clatter across the pier, with shouted orders and affirmations traded from vessel to cart to street.

Farther down, a shirtless, heavily-tattooed, older Minkaian man (Slide 6) waves his burly, tanned arms from beside a rickety boat, speaking to you in Taldane. “Ahoy there! Always good to see fellow Pathfinders in these parts. Name’s Masuhei Okonase, former Pathfinder agent and current oyster fisher extraordinaire! Good old Fola reached out and asked me to lend a hand, and I’m always happy to help out where I can."

“So, Fola tells me that you’re headed out to Kayajima to scout some ground for a new Pathfinder lodge? That’s quite exciting! We don’t get much Pathfinder activity in the area, and I’d love to see the Society have a more permanent presence here. Might even inspire me to pick up the old wayfinder again, ha!"

“I’m ready to take you to Kayajima when you’re ready. If you need to pick up anything before we head out, the markets should have everything you could need. Just let me know when you’re ready to set sail.” He then busies himself throwing off mooring lines on his ship, the Auspicious Pearl.

You have the opportunity to make any basic purchases that you would like. Additionally, you can ask Masuhei any questions that you'd like, but you'll also have the opportunity to do the same as you sail to Kayajima.

You may now slot your boons and record the 1 Hero Point that each of you have. You can also attempt any of the below checks to gather more information. Read the spoilers only for your result, please.

Diplomacy Checks to Gather Information

Society Checks to Recall Information

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14
Society: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (19) + 9 = 28

"I've read how the people who lived in Sakakabe in ancient times used the then-active ley lines as a power source to advance their society with minimal disruption to the environment. And incredible achievement!"

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (15) + 3 = 18
Society: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22

Despite having a weapon originating from this part of the world, Kamil don't speak the language and seems a little lost when talking to people that don't share the same language...

Masuhei, I remember that the stone walls that outline Sakakabe’s streets are etched with reliefs of ancient warriors. Do you know something about that?

Jeeves brightens as MudVug makes his graceful entrance. "Master MudVug, that was an inspired performance. I'm more convinced than ever of a successful completion to our mission."

Nodding to Nina, Jeeves seems deep in thought, "Very interesting about the ley lines. I wonder if they remain active today."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (14) + 14 = 28
Society: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

He adds, "From what I remember, the island of Kayajima is full of wild, dangerous beasts. I recall stories of would-be settlers being chased away." Turning to Masuhei, Jeeves asks, "Can you tell us anything more about the creatures inhabiting the island?"

Slotted boons are on Jeeves' character sheet.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 1 = 9

Society: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (20) + 1 = 21

After talking to a couple of sailors MugVug comes back with his eyes wide with excitement.

The island is haunted! Ghosts! Vengeful ghosts even! Out for blood!

I've also heard of these stone carved warriors. I bet that's where the spirits of the ghosts reside. We had better be prepared to deal with ancient warrior ghosts.

MugVug steps up next to Jeeves and crosses his arms.

Master Masuhei...what can you tell me of these vengeful ancient warrior spirits. They don't care to eat goblins do they? Most ghosts prefer human or elf flesh I bet. Goblins are way too skinny for hungry ghosts. Right?

My boons are on my sheet as well

"I don't think goblins are that bad." Grum says dryly at his poor attempt at humor. "Not very filling, but works for snacks."

Will slot my boons when I get home. Do not have all my chronicles in front of me

Masuhei efficiently launches his boat from the pier into the water, then takes to the boom and positions the sails to take a broad reach. The Auspicious Pearl begins carving into the water with ease, allowing the older captain a chance to squat and ponder the many questions coming his way. After a moment, he answers.

“Well, from what I learned back in my school days, the island used to host Sakakabe’s military forces. At some point in our history, the island was abandoned. It was not worth the effort holding an island off the coast, so provincial leadership decided to consolidate forces on the mainland. Not many people make their way out there nowadays. Don’t think there’s much of value, and the silver and fishing industries are booming, so there is no need to overextend ourselves. Don't know about vengeful spirits.”

He snaps his fingers at Jeeves' comment about ley lines. “I have heard of those! Ancient Minkai used them, so they say, but they must have gone out long ago, if they even existed at all. Hope this trip will be worth your while!”

The seas off the coast of Sakakabe are calm. Apart from the occasional squawk of a seabird, the only sounds are the wind and water against the hull of the vessel as you go.

Nina passes around a wineskin.

Fortitude, DC 12: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (12) + 6 = 18

Nina has some and smacks her lips.

MugVug takes the skin and swallows a large gulp. He hands it back with a wide grin.

What a delicious vintage. I am once again honored to be your traveling companion. Here, let me return the favor.

MugVug reaches into a belt pouch and grabs a handful of crumbs, moldy icing and lint. He reaches out his hand and smiles.

Would you like some cake?

After listening to Masuhei, Jeeves moves to the railing to enjoy the view on the water. You can hear him occasionally squawking back at seabirds who pass overhead.
Animal Elocutionist

Jeeves makes a habit of never being late to a party. So when Nina passes around the wineskin, he hops down to join her and takes a swig.

Fortitude: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (7) + 12 = 19

Not having tasted pickle brine before, he nods. "Interesting quaff you have there, Mistress Nina. Not bad!"

The journey takes a few peaceful hours. The misty weather persists during this time, ominous clouds springing up to blot out the sun as you travel west. During this time, in addition to expertly piloting the craft, Masuhei peppers you lot with questions of your exploits as Pathfinders, clearly gleaning vicarious joy out of your stories. The older man shares that he retired to Sakakabe to continue his family’s oyster-harvesting business some years ago, and while his business is booming, he misses the adventuring lifestyle.

"Ah! To travel the world, meet new types of people, explore new places - this is what epic poems are written about, not oyster farming!" He sighs heavily. "But I shall trouble you no more with my plight. Look! We draw close!"

Slide 7

Kayajima is visible from the mainland in good weather, but the cold-tinged clouds hang low in the sky, obscuring much of its verdant forest. The peak of a single tall mountain comes into sharp contrast above the precipitation as the Auspicious Pearl nears the island, guided by red-painted wooden gates in the water. Motes of glowing green dot the coast near the wooden pier, winking in and out of the chilly air. A small shack sits just at the tree line by the coast, a lantern visible in the near window.

Masuhei shivers and throws a poncho over his shoulders as he prepares to land his boat at the dock. "I ferried your colleague Kukuha out here a few days ago. She decided that she wanted to head out early to spend some time getting familiar with the island geography. She probably awaits you within.” With a spritely hop, Masuhei jumps from the prow of the ship onto the dock and swiftly ties down a mooring line.

Nina tries to retain her composure as she disembarks.

She calls out to Kukuha to see if anyone answers.

Grum stands up and stretches. Grabbing his great axe with one hand, he leaves the boat.

MugVug offers his handful of "cake" to his traveling companions. When nobody partakes in his generosity he shrugs and jams the crumbs into his mouth.

He follows closely behind the massive Orc.

Kamil thanks Masuhei for the ride and jumps elegantly on shore.

Lets met Kukuha!

Kamil follows Grum a few step behinds, trying to be as stealthy as possible.

My exploration mode is stealth

Jeeves bows to Masuhei. "Our thanks for the quick journey." He then turns to Kamil, "After you, my friend."

As he follows the group to the shack, Jeeves mutters, "With odd eerie glowing, let magic be showing."

Jeeves casts Detect Magic, and approaches using that Exploration Mode.

Grum notices the others falling in behind him and smirks. "Don't worry. Something comes, I'll handle."

Search for exploration activity

MugVug follows the lead of Kamil and fades into the shadows himself.

My exploration mode is stealth as well.

Nina watches her companions scurry into the shadows.

"You are quite the suspicious lot. This is just an isolated shack on a deserted island, nothing to worry about!"

Nina moves forward, calling out Kukuha's name once again.

To be clear, Jeeves strides up with Nina in plain sight. He still Detects Magic. But with his being oddly dressed in a black top hat, coat and tails, not to mention the bright blue hair, he couldn't sneak past a cyclops with an eye patch. He calls out, "If the gentlemen would like the benefit of an Invisibility Sphere, do let me know. I remain humbly at your service."

Masuhei announces his plans to depart as you disembark.

"These waters are unproven oyster spawning territory. I plan on investigating. If I have success, then when I come to collect you all this evening, we will dine on fresh oyster stew! And if I have no success, then I will take you my favourite place that serves oyster stew! Happy exploring!"

Masuhei pushes off into the water as you approach the small building. Jeeves casts a quick arcane spell as he walks down the pier.

Nina calls out Kukuha's name once, and then again she and Jeeves move closer to the shack, the remainder of the team scanning the scene or finding an inconspicuous spot to occupy. There is no reply. The aasimar and bard reach the door to the shack.

Nina will knock politely.

If there's no answer, Nina will suggest a loop around the shack to see if there are windows to peek through or another entrance.

My previous employer made me suspicious of everything.

Says Kamil.

Once in front of the shack, Kamil agrees with Nina, remaining as stealthy as possible.

While Kamil is remaining as stealthy as possible, Jeeves stands quietly next to Nina, looking as conspicuous as possible. He dutifully follows the Aasimar as she loops around the shack.

There is no reply to the knock on the shack door. The lantern looking out on the pier in the front window, reveals no motion within the small room beyond. Circling around the shack through the dense cedar forest reveals another door on the opposite side of the small building, and a trail strewn with crushed sea shells leading up to the door.

Further inland, the path winds into the dense cedar trees. The forest appears tranquil, and the path, although partially overgrown with ground foliage, remains clear beneath the looming canopy. The ground is packed dirt, shells, and pine needles. An occasional rustle of leaves or flapping of wings break the silence. The air smells of rich earth and peat.

MugVug sidles up next to Grum and says in a low voice,

It's pretty quiet around here...too quiet I say...I bet the ancient evil blood thirsty warrior spirits got to them. I hope you're not afraid of ghosts Grum. You don't look like the type who'd be afraid but you never know these days.

MugVug continues trying his best to be sneaky and follows the others around the house.

Survival: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (20) + 0 = 20

Stealth: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

Jeeves walks with the others around the shack, detecting magic as he goes. He informs the others, "No magic so far, masters."

He studies the forest floor.
Survival: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Not finding anything interesting, he waits by the door on the opposite side.

Survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (5) + 8 = 13

Nina sees a bunch of scattered shells but nothing else. She knocks on the back door (but stops calling out Kukuha's name).

If there's no answer, Nina will look for an opening big enough for a mouse to fit through (Perception +8) - and wild shape into a mouse to gain access into the house.

Survival: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Interesting. Shells as alarm" Grum says looking at the shells.

Grum looks down at the goblin, "No. Not afraid."

The shack provides a space large enough for the mouse-cum-sorcerer to fit under. Within, Nina finds no signs that anyone is currently staying in this shack, despite its cozy cot. There is a note pinned down by a pair of cedar cones on the lone, low table in the shack.

MugVug sees the perplexed looks on his companions faces.

Hey! Come over here. I just so happen to be an expert tracker. Yes indeed! See these indentations here? There are some footprints of somebody wearing...wooden shoes I think. But they're at least a day old. Maybe she saw one of the dire deadly ancient warrior spirit ghosts in the woods?

"Good. Let's follow" Grum says patting the goblin on the head. "You coming" he asks looking over his shoulder.

Nina will transform back into a human once inside, and let everyone in (and show them the note).

Hearing MugVug ranting and raving about something, Jeeves approaches to take a closer look. "Indeed Master MugVug. Your eyesight is keen. Well done, my friend!"

When Nina transforms and then invites them in the shack, Jeeves nods to her and enters. "That's a most useful skill." After studying the note, he suggests, "Perhaps those are Kukuha's tracks that our perceptive goblin found. Shall we follow them?" He looks around to the others.

Nina looks through the cabin to see if there's anything that's useful.

It would also be helpful if we could take 10 min for her to Refocus, but not necessary. If the GM allows, she can Refocus while enjoying the woods as she walks.

When Nina mentions refocusing, Jeeves offers, "Mistress Nina, allow us to search this cabin while you meditate." Before searching, he mutters, "Amidst nature's flora, reveal your aura."
Jeeves casts Detect Magic to aid in the search of the shack.

Since it typically takes 10mins to search, we should be able to search/refocus concurrently.

The team takes a breather inside the shack. Poking about the interior, nothing of interest is uncovered. The stealthy members of the party mill about near the forest trail. After a few moments, everyone sets off into an easy stretch of forest, a squall of native birds heralding the start of the journey.

Survival: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

You are indeed quite perceptive MugVug, well done.

Letting his comrade with better senses than him looking inside the shack, Kamil stays outside, watching.

Once they are certain that there is nothing more of interest, he follows them into the forest.

This place is quiet, compare to the Mwangi jungles... he says while walking.

As they follow the trail through the forest, Jeeves looks around bright-eyed. He chitters "good day" to the native birds flitting about. Not expecting an answer, he squawks a bit more to ask: "have any of you seen someone like us passing through recently?"

"Unatoka kwa Mwangi? Natoka Vidrian. Maua haya ni mazuri. Nashangaa ikiwa ninaweza kuleta nyumba kupanda."

Nina pauses here and there to admire the flowers.

"I don't think they'd survive the heat," she says absent-mindedly, in Common.

Just to be sure, Kamil is using Survival for his exploration mode, Nina and Jeeves are using Perception, and MugVug and Grum are using Stealth. Is that correct?