[Outpost IV][PFS2] #2-00: The King in Thorns (Inactive)

Game Master Ilmakis

A Pathfinder Society Scenario designed for levels 3-4.

In the jungles of the Mwangi Expanse, a large group of Pathfinders stands ready to travel beyond a magical gateway whose mysteries stymied a group of the Pathfinder Society's founders. What lies beyond the doorway is also the crux of the plot of an ancient evil fey, the Thorned Monarch. Will the Pathfinders unlock lost fey magic, restore buried secrets from the Society's history, and purge the world of the Monarch's evil, or will they fall before the fey's minions and tricks?

**HOUSE GM ANNOUNCEMENT**

A small army of Pathfinders, you among them, wade ashore as the the Society’s expedition makes landfall. Venture-Captains and society faction leaders--many of them familiar to you--immediately begin directing Pathfinders in the myriad tasks that need to be done.

Welcome to PFS #2-00 The King in Thorns! GMs, please begin the Introduction. Part 1 begins in 2 days.

"My word that is quite an assembly of Pathfinders. I frankly didn't even realize we had so many in our ranks to commit to any single mission. I guess our recruitment tactics have been effective..."

Marcus pulls his long black hair out of his face and look around, scratching a bit of stubble on his chin as he look around for his companions. "First order of the day, find my assigned compatriots for the day's trials and tribulations from among the sea of adventurers."

Pathfinders hurry around the makeshift camp, packing and unpacking supplies, making repairs, and scribing scrolls.
The atmosphere is excited but tinged with some trepidation. Venture-Captain Oraiah Tolal from Nirmathas takes the lead, ensuring everyone has an assignment and is working on it. A religious symbol of Alseta—goddess of doorways, portals, thresholds, and transitions—hangs from her neck, showing two faces in profile.

Seeing your group without assignment, Verdant Wheel faction leader Urwal lays on the ground, making marks on a scroll that stretches over 10 feet long.
This is our supplies list. Everything from rations to ammunition to the mounts needed to transport it all with us. We need to ensure that we know where everything is. I’m not letting anyone try to forage while we’re traveling.

Relevant Skills Nature, Society, Survival

As you finish your first task Envoy’s Alliance faction leader Fola Barun is directing a group of Pathfinders who are carefully blending magic and ingredients inside glass vials. She waves at you! Come help us ensure that everyone is well supplied for this journey.

Relevant Skills Arcana, Nature, Occultism, Religion

After helping Fola, you hear barking. Sensing his loyal Dog Mahki excited by the approach of new Pathfinders, Venture-Captain Bjersig Torrsen who were scrutinizing at different maps turns to you.
Hey Pathfinders! Come! I’m verifying all of our maps against what we can see from here. Landmarks can easily change. Why don’t you see if you can find any discrepancies?

Relevant Skills Nature, Survival, Perception

As you rest after finding some disrepencies in the map, you see the Horizon Hunters faction leader Calisro Benarry waving at you with her flask.
Some of the newer Pathfinders seem a little nervous about this mission. Can you cheer them up a bit? This is exciting, after all!
After offering you a long sip at her flask and directing you at the group of newly trained Pathfinders, she continues to watch for people.

Relevant Skills Deception, Diplomacy, Performance

After meeting new Pathfinders and cheering them up, Venture-Captain Khoumrock Blackthane calls you from afar! As you follows his booming voice, you see that he ensures that groups of smiths and carpenters accompanying the Pathfinders have everything they need.
Once near him he says A lot of this gear got damaged on the voyage over. We need to make sure that everything is in tip-top shape.

Relevant Skills Athletics, Crafting, Guild Lore

After passing some time to repair some item in the heat of the forge, you decides to take some rest near one of the tents but Radiant Oath faction leader Valais Durant who oversees a small army of Pathfinders poring over books and scrolls. A few use magical methods to absorb information even faster. Don't seems to want to let you rest!

Oh good, you’re here to help. I was able to get these reference materials from local institutions. There’s information on local plants, animals, and fey that I couldn’t get at home. We’re about to face a lot of dangers. Choose your favorite topic and start reading.

Relevant Skills Nature, Society, Survival

You can present your character and do the skill challenges in order :)

Urwal, Nature: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23

Fola, Nature: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24

Bjersig, Nature: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (4) + 11 = 15

Calisro, Diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (4) + 6 = 10

Khoumrock, Athletics: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

Valais, Survival: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (8) + 11 = 19

Frogger eagerly awaits the journey. He hasn't been back home to the Mwangi since becoming a Pathfinder. He's nervous, talking to his familiar in the mean time. "Do you remember home? We're going back. Maybe we can stop by and see my parents... They're doing well. I received a letter from them about a month ago. Apparently, my cousin is getting married!"

As the other Pathfinders join in, Frogger nods at them. "Greetings. My name is Frogger. Pleasure to meet you. Do you know what we're doing? I don't exactly know what this Thorned Monarch is."

Urwal comes up and sees the Pathfinders standing around. "Greeting Urwal. Nice to see you again. Don't worry - we will make sure that everything is accounted for."

"My word that is quite an assembly of Pathfinders. I frankly didn't even realize we had so many in our ranks to commit to any single mission. I guess our recruitment tactics have been effective..."

Marcus pulls his long black hair out of his face and look around, scratching a bit of stubble on his chin as he look around for his companions. "First order of the day, find my assigned compatriots for the day's trials and tribulations from among the sea of adventurers."

A small and oddly looking goblin mounted on a wolf and stops next to Marcus.

"Good luck with that! I need to find my group, and I have no idea how to do it." as he disappears within the crowd.

A couple of minutes later he finds his fellow Pathfinders. His hair only covers half of his head, while other half is covered in ugly tattoos. He does not look at the ones that he speaks to, his voice is irritating and high pitched. His clothing and leather armor bear marks of burns. As he moves his bandolier make noise as he would be carrying plenty of bottles.

He mounts a big wolf with rather pleasant character that he calls 'Wolfie'.

"I am Hopper and this is Wolfie, nice to find you. It took me a while."

Hopper nods to Frogger

"You are from here? Must be good to be back! Thorned Monarch? Let me tell you..." just as he was supposed to explain, they were thrown into a set of chores

Urwal, society: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20

Fola, occultism: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Bjersig, Nature: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12

Calisro, Deception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (9) + 7 = 16

Khoumrock, Crafting: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (20) + 11 = 31

Valais, society: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

Natesh adjusted his finely tailor clothing and absentmindedly runs his fingers over the few bits of jewelry attached to them and his hands to ensure they haven't been stolen as of yet.

His skin tone is more familiar among other humans who live toward the northern portion of Garund, of Osirion and the countries once ruled by the ancient empire although his pointed ears clearly point out his mixed heritage. All of this is however unremarkable among the diverse set of Pathfinders gathered in the area.

"Natesh Dawnseeker," the half-elf bows with his introduction. "I would offer a more proper introduction of my talents, but for brevity, and the likely lack of need, I will offer I'm a diviner of some minor talent. Hopefully those talents will find their mark here."

"Still, as embarrassing as it is for me to admit, I must concede that I at at loss myself on the exact details of our mission, I have only had dealings with one monarch and they were neither thorned, fey, or through a mystical portal."

Natesh's ears perk up as Hopper begins to explain and grimaces briefly as the discussion is cut off by the series of chores.

Urwal, Society: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24

Fola, Arcana: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (14) + 11 = 25

Bjersig, Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (19) + 8 = 27

Calisro, Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17

Khoumrock, Athletics: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Valais, Society: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14

Lydia enters the bustling camp and takes a deep breath, Goodbye any hope of alone time... she thinks to herself. Seeing everyone working on a task the half-elf runs up to the first group that will have her. "Hello, I'm Lydia. Looks like you may need someone with some sword skills, yeah?" She gives a nervous smile as as she begins checking the various straps and sheaths securing weapons to her person. Lydia appears to be a relatively young adult half-elf with red hair and more weapons then you can easily count at a glance. Most notably she has two jagged looking swords at either side. She quickly gets to work on the current task before anyone has time to reject her.

Urwal Society: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15

Fola Religion: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

Calisro deception: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23

Khoumrock athletics: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16

Valais Survival: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (3) + 6 = 9

Kazikli finds himself shunt into the nearest group of Pathfinders, and, not seeing any dissent, gets in step with them. He wears blood-red robes and gauntlets that cover his entire body. The getup is slung over what looks like plate armor with any bit that used to offer protection stripped off. The one other color in this affront to fashion is a golden wolf mask. There are horns on it that could be slipped over the wearer's own tusks, the only thing betraying him as someone of orcish ancestry.

"I am called Kazikli," he rumbles. "It seems as if our many recent expeditions in the Mwangi are coming to a head. I won't take that as any less reason to savor my time here. Something of a second home, this place."

He sounds personable enough, despite his appearance, but quickly stops talking. He eyes Frogger with curiosity. "But there will be time for such things later. In the meanwhile, preparations."

Urwal, Society: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (7) + 7 = 14

Fola, Nature: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27

Bjersig, Nature: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (13) + 7 = 20

Calisro, Deception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (18) + 9 = 27

Khoumrock, Athletics: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20

Valais, Nature: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

Thanks to your aid and both Natesh and Frogger keen eyes, Urwal finds that the society packed in excess for the potentially dangerous mission!
He lets you take one item from his inventory.
Reward Each PC receives their choice of a lesser antidote or lesser antiplague

Thanks for you help and Kazikli's knowledge that come just at the right time, there is enough time to make higher quality supplies!
Fola is so happy that she gaves you several healing potions.
Reward Each PC receives a lesser healing potion and a moderate healing potion.

Natesh and Kzikli finds some discrepancy in Torrsen's maps. To thank you, Torrsen shares his information with you.
Reward The PCs receive a survey map for one encounter of their choice in Part 1.

Despite your effort, you are not able to cheer up the neophyte Pathfinders until Kazikli find a story so unbelievable that they start loosing their apprehensions!
The neophyte Pathfinders are in much better spirits for the journey ahead and are ready to lend you a hand.
Reward Once during the adventure, each PC can receive a +1 circumstance bonus to one skill check or attack roll, representing the fellow Pathfinder succeeding at a check to Aid them. The PC must decide to use this benefit before rolling.

Used to create object, the Mad Hopper quickly find the right rhythm to help the dwarf supervising the forge, being there at the right time when something could go wrong.
Khoumrock is so satisfied by your help that he lend you some ammunitions and weapons!
Reward Each PC receives one piece of non-magical low-grade cold iron ammunition of their choice from the Core Rulebook and the PCs receive a single non-magical low-grade cold iron simple or martial weapon of their choice from the Core Rulebook.

With you help, Valais is able to gather a lot of information, particularly with some findings from Frogger, the Mad Hopper and Kazikly. She shares with you the most important part.
Reward The background information helps the PCs readily identify threats during the journey. Once during this adventure, each PC can gain a +2 circumstance bonus to any one check to Recall Knowledge.

Probably not relevant anymore, but gonna make the checks anyways.

Marcus eyes the scroll with an arched eyebrow. "That is... quite a bit of inventory to keep track of mere hours before our departure... I shall take a look."
Urwal, Society: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (15) + 7 = 22

A while later, Marcus gives a warm greeting to Fola. "I presume the new recruits I sent your way have worked out?" He has a bit of a mischievous grin... knowing full well that she likely doesn't know who was sent by whom... and if she did he'd likely get a tongue lashing. "Best make sure they have the 'best' of the 'best' for today's trials."

Fola, Occult: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (20) + 7 = 27

Given Marcus's son's involvement with several esteemed pathfinders bearing names including 'Bjorn' 'Torr' or 'son' he opts to keep on the down-low, simply doing the job and scooting on out.

Torrsen, Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10

Grinning widely at Calisro's request he pulls out a this white plain mask and places it on his face. It adjusts to form a caricature of a Fey monarch and begin to stomp around like a buffoon. He sideles up to another pathfinder attempting to cheer up the crowd and whispers, "This is the part where you punch me in the face..."

Benarry, Performance (Act): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14

Marcus keeps silent when assisting VC Blackthane. His forge work is not quite up to snuff so he lends a hand and hopes he's not remembered for it.

Blackthane, Crafting: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20

"Well met Valais. Allow me to see if I can recall anything of the Fey families..."

Valais, Society: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25

After a while he notes that he's been following The Mad Hopper from place to place and flags him down. "Actually... I get the sneaking suspicion that we will be working together for this journey. Marcus Fantailler, pleased to meet you."

After years of working with legal documents Natesh is more acclimated to the nature of reviewing Torrsen's maps, even more so than the binding of arcane materials. "Everything is far much easier from a document or a record. Easier to ingest, comprehend, and analyze than that of practical application within the field." Natesh adjusts his collar a moment before contrasting the map against another report. "Hopefully the preparation here is more than enough to carry us through."

Kazikli willingly aids in the various tasks, but is most at ease with the junior Pathfinders. He goes into great detail about a gargoyle he once put down. "...This was on Society business, of course. But that deed was one I performed in service to all the people of the area. Not far from here, perhaps a week's march." The half-orc distractedly looks to a map he had been helping to study earlier. "No doubt you've all been with us for at least a few years? You'll be fine. By the time I was Confirmed and out of training, the events that spurred me to join had run their course."

Hopper attempted to do his best with most of the tasks but the one that made him yell and wave his hand, and hop around was for dwarf Blackthane.

Hopper had a clear idea of how smiths and carpenters should be working, and it was far from dwarven accuracy, attention to detail, and great craftsmanship.

Few times even Hopper ended up pulling at Khoumrock's armored arm and punching him in the back which the dwarf didn't even feel.

"I told you, broken shields can be repaired with the parts of pots not used by the cooks. In puddles, the best blacksmiths have done that for years.... yes of course that they were Goblin Blacksmiths! "

But somehow they made it work and improved the situation by learning from each other.

Hopper tired comes back to the team and bumps into Marcus, he looks up as even sitting on his mount he is smaller than an average human

"Oh Master Fantailler, a pleasure. Hopper is my name, are you a musician? Do you know the song of a smelly lizard running after a fat fly?" asks Goblin

Btw. I have little use for cold-iron weapon, so if one wants to use two let me know. Otherwise Hopper would take cold iron sickle.

For my gear I think I will select a lesser antidote, a cold iron arrow, and a cold iron guisarme. I can't think of another cold iron weapon I might want. For my school item I would be picking up a scroll of dispel magic.

Lydia works quickly and efficiently, except the book she picked out to help Valais was a particularly dry book covering plant transpiration. Let's just get on with it. Reading books makes you a better reader. Fighting makes you a better fighter! she thinks to herself and then daydreams playing with her swords.

She finds a cold iron shortsword that meets her fancy and adds it to her personal armory.

Lydia will take a cold iron shortsword and lesser antidote. School item (generalist) will be a lesser healing potion

If someone wants my cold iron ammunition, please claim it. And Lydia doesn't need a 2nd cold iron weapon fwiw so thanks for the offer.

Weapon: Cold iron shortsword
Ammo: Ammo of someone else's choosing. I throw rocks with Telekinetic Projectile and I don't think getting a cold iron rock helps that at all.
School Item: Feather Token (Holly bush)

Marcus thinks for a moment. "I don't recall a tune matching that description, however I would not be averse to learning it if provided with the lyrics and tablature."

Looking at the group that seems to have formed by happenstance and a general case of 'doing roughly the same thing at about the same time' he offers an outstretched hand to each in turn. "Looks like we'll all be working together today. Marcus Vultulus Fantailler, formerly of Cassomir. You can call me Marcus... Marc... really anything you prefer so long as it's done in good spirits"

Weapon: Cold iron spear
Ammo: cold iron arrow (but can't really use it)
School item: lesser healing potion

Frogger sits by Lydia, noticing she picked up a book on plant transpiration. "Ah, interesting book you have there. What're you learning?"

Similarly, Frogger picks up a book called Psychoactive Mushrooms of the lower Barrier Wall Mountains in the Northern Mwangi Expanse.

"Ah. Look at this mushroom! Rumor has it, this 'shroom will kill you by just looking at it."

**HOUSE GM ANNOUNCEMENT**

Everyone gathers around a makeshift stage as the sun starts to slip below the horizon. Pathfinders whisper to each other in anticipation.

Venture-Captain Oraiah Tolal addresses the group. “Pathfinders, our expedition begins tomorrow. We have a day’s travel to reach the site where we will find the Door of Seasons. The founders of our Society may have been unable to reach the realm that lies beyond this magical gateway, but we have something they lacked.” The Venture-Captain holds a verdant crown aloft. “This is the Perennial Crown, an artifact that will serve as the key to opening the door. I hope that Alseta will bless us as we find this doorway to a new place. From what we’ve been able to gather, there’s a demiplane on the other side. The demiplane and the crown alike are closely tied to the Thorned Monarch, Qxal, an evil fey who once terrorized this region. The Pathfinders who recovered this crown faced steep opposition from the Monarch, and I have no doubt they will defend the Door of Seasons even more fiercely. Be wary any fey you see along the way; they are likely to be working for Qxal. Stay in groups of four or more for safety and help each other. Make any final preparations that you require and get a good night’s sleep; your next few nights will be on the trail. We leave an hour after dawn.”

Day breaks, and the excitement around the camp is too high to allow any Pathfinder to oversleep. Agents perform morning rituals, eat breakfast, and take a final look through maps and plans. Venture-Captain Oraiah Tolal gathers everyone together one last time. “I know that we’ve prepared well. We’re going to stop this Thorned Monarch. I have a small gift for each of you: a signal whistle with an engraving of the Perennial Crown. Use it to signal your fellow Pathfinders if you need help. And now, into the wilderness!”

Table GMs, please begin Part 1.

"I don't recall a tune matching that description, however I would not be averse to learning it if provided with the lyrics and tablature."

"I can sing it to you, I don't know those tablatures of yours" Hopper begins to clear his throat when the big spiel begins to happen

"Ok later than..."

Hopper stops next to Natesh and comments on what VC Tolal said

"Yeah Thorned Monarch is Qxal, that perennial crown was his and we must not allow him to get it back as there is no saying what he will be capable of doing." I don't want to spoiler anything from the scenarios, but I think the above description covers all the bases.

Hopper looks around at his allies and asks no one in particular

"Hey! Where is our blockhead clad in full-plate armor? You know the one that comes and says: 'I was training for that moment for my whole life, point me in the right direction and I will slice everything that moves. " Hopper sighs and urges Wolfie to move closer to Lydia he sizes her up and down and throws further

"Lydia right? Tomorrow morning I will prepare some of my juices to boost your defenses. You are a half-elf, right? Good, I did not have a chance to test it on elves yet. It is perfectly safe, you know, there is no need to be worried. A thick scale will cover your skin and your eyes will become sharper. Let me show you..."

He reaches for his bag and pulls out some ingredients that he begins to mix quickly. Parts of the ingredients fall on the floor which does not concern Hopper. He finally gets few drops of odd liquid, he drinks the small quantity, and closes his eyes.

As he opens them you can see that his eyes pupils are slitted now and he begins moving a bit differently. A bit like a reptile, he extends his hand and you can spot scales covering a small portion of his skin.

"I prepared only a few drops, so the effect ... will not last." You can see Hopper's eyes slowly turning to his regular yellow color and scales dropping on the floor.

"There is no saying what we will meet around the gate or beyond it, but it is better to be prepared..."

A dwarven man in armor reminiscent of a metal diving suit sets his helmet in place as a half-orc woman in a tricorne hat lends a hand.
She ponders, I like your style, Blackthane, but isn’t this a little more suited to underwater?
Khoumrock Blackthane responds, It’s good armor still, and I’ve made a few adjustments so it works better on land. I’ve come out of retirement for the sixth time, and I’m going to be comfortable.
Calisro Benarry responds, Can’t argue with that. I’m always comfortable.[/b]

She turns to address the gathered Pathfinders. Pathfinders, we’re setting out. Our goal is a horizon that no one of this world’s ever seen. But Qxal is aiming to make sure we don’t get there. Everyone, stay sharp and work together. Blackthane adds, And mind your equipment!

[ooc]You can do these missions in any order.
A. THE MUSHROOM RING
B. IT TALKS!
C. BEFUDDLED PATHFINDERS
D. ENCHANTED PLANTS
E. CHART A COURSE
F. THE DISGUISED FORCES
[i]Remember that you can ask to see one of the maps before choosing to do a mission!

"I was just reading about mushrooms! I suggest that, then working our way through the others." Frogger seems giddy, ready for an adventure. "What do you suppose the other missions are?"

Thank you Hopper

"If you are studied on them, then it would seem wise to deal with the mushroom ring sooner than later."

I would be good with The Mushroom Ring.

For the map, would it be fine for us to ask to see a map for a mission we might be doing after this first mission? In that case, Befuddled Pathfinders seems interesting to me.

Also it looked as though people were passing on their cold iron ammunition. I'm well covered for weapons, but I can take each of them as arrows in case we need to shoot enemies from a distance.

"Lydia right? Tomorrow morning I will prepare some of my juices to boost your defenses. You are a half-elf, right? Good, I did not have a chance to test it on elves yet. It is perfectly safe, you know, there is no need to be worried. A thick scale will cover your skin and your eyes will become sharper. Let me show you..."

Lydia appears to be somewhat reserved at first, though she watches in fascination at the impromptu alchemical show. "Willing to try most things at least once." she tells Hopper though internally she would be more comforted had this been tested on an elf before. Nonetheless her eyes grow wide at the sight of the scales and a smile crosses her face. "Thank you Hopper! Yes, it's better to be prepared!" she then takes the moment to tell Hopper that she's been working on some magic of her own. "See, look!" she says as she pulls out a small spellbook and tries to mutter a few words. Lydia then runs around expecting to take bigger steps but stops once realizing her spell didn't work. "Hm, well, it's still a work in progress." She carefully puts her book back in her backpack and hears the summon for a gathering.

------

Lydia is excited to hear the group will be heading out. She double--no, triple checks her swords and rest of her equipment as she awaits further orders.
Having GM'ed this I'll abstain from voting, I'm good with whatever order

Two vote is good for me!

Calisro Benarry looks through a spyglass. Fey. Lots of them. They’ve got to be coming through some kind of portal from the First World. I’ll take care of that lot while you look for the source. Watch for more coming through!

First, you need to locate the Mushroom Ring, which easily blend into the wilderness!

All PC can make a Perception or Survival Check to find it.

Natesh holds his bow ready as the group cuts through the wild, untamed wilderness.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11

"I can't tell how to find anything within this place. It feels like every leaf is constantly rustling around me. It feels as though we are walking right into the middle of an ambush."

Survival: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (7) + 11 = 18

When Benarry mentions Fey, Frogger shudders. "No thank you! Get me far away from there.".

So Frogger sets off in a hurry to find any mushrooms around. "See any mushrooms out there?" Frogger examines the forest floor for any signs.

I'll take a lesser antivenom and a cold iron crossbow bolt.

Perception: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

"No doubt there's plenty of mushrooms. We should look for a cluster of them forming a diagram or pattern, and the rest are throwing us off." Kazikli tries to find something off amidst the dense foliage.

"So... we're searching for a ring of mushrooms... in a forest of mushrooms? And differentiate it from an oval of mushrooms? Or a teardrop of mushrooms? Well, looks like we have our work cut out for us."

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Finally, Marcus is able to see some difference into oval mushroom and teardrop mushrooms! There! The Ring!

In the middle of a small pond, a ring of large toadstools glows with a slight magical energy. The ground inside wobbles, appearing almost translucent, as if it were possible to step right through it.

The squares with mushrooms and with water are difficult terrain.

Round 1 (bold can act)
Marcus
Enemy - Recall Knowledge: Nature (if you want to roll, tell me your bonus) - 1 action
Frogger
Natesh
Lydia
Kazikli

"Hrrmmmmm.... what have we here...."

◆ Recall knowledge with Bardic Lore at +7

"Well friends, time to test our mettle as a team. You may be right Natesh... this is an ambush... but not for us."

◆ Inspire Courage +1

With that he smirks and draws his blade. If his ID check indicates that cold iron will help, he'll draw the short sword. If it wont help or he can't tell, he'll draw his rapier.

◆ Draw weapon

@Marcus how about we use that aid token that we have to get critical success on recall knowledge and pass the token further? I don't want to take the fun out of your Dubious Knowledge, but I always struggle to find a use for aid tokens ;)

In the early morning Hopper walk up and started his preparations. Wolfie was still lying on the ground, his tail covering his nose as he opened one eye, spotted goblin, and went back to sleep.

A small alchemist began to silently say something that sounds like a nursery rhyme while he was setting up his alchemist tool to prepare the potions for the day.

"Tall Mcdonald was a wizard,
tall Mcdonald was a lizard,
Tall McDonald had some claws,
Tall McDonald liked to sing songs.

Lizard wizard had some fun
Lizard wizard ripped apart
Lizard wizard ate his foes
..."
The rhymes went on and on. As Hopper was preparing a set of potions and bombs. Finally, he nodded to himself and hidden the bombs in his bandolier.

When the others were up he went to Lydia and gave her two bottles with orange liquid in it, just like burning flames would be captured in the bottles

"Here, this is for you." After seeing what he is giving away he says

"Oh, no sorry these are not it. It is better not drink those. I must come up with some labels..." he reaches for two bottles od dark liquid and gives them to Lydia

2x Moderate Drakeheart Mutagens for you

Then he comes to Natesh
"Here, keep one as well. If Lydia will be in trouble and you need to go in. It may let you stand longer..."

1x Moderate Drakeheart Mutagen for Natesh

Hopper still has 1 to give, if your resources will go short.

----------- At the mushroom

"Oh wow, I need to get some of those mushrooms..." says Hopper completely missing out that there is a creature here.

A second creature pops out of the Mushroom Ring!

While the first one concentrates and a flake of putrid grease appears under the feet of the Patfhinders!
All solid ground in the area is covered with grease. Each creature standing on the greasy surface must succeed at a DC18 Reflex save or an Acrobatics check against your spell DC or fall prone. Creatures using an action to move onto the greasy surface during the spell's duration must attempt either a Reflex save or an Acrobatics check to Balance. A creature that Steps or Crawls doesn't have to attempt a check or save.

Round 1 (bold can act)
Active Buff - Inspire Courage +1 -
Marcus
Enemy - Recall Knowledge: Nature (if you want to roll, tell me your bonus) - 1 action
Frogger - Ref/Acro DC18 or prone
Natesh - Ref/Acro DC18 or prone
Lydia - Ref/Acro DC18 or prone
Kazikli

Round 2 (bold can act)
Marcus

Reflex: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26

◆ Recall knowledge. Nature +11

"Oh, intriguing. Look at how they dance around. Wonder what they are.". Frogger then steps away from the grease. "This sap... or whatever it is. I should save a sample of it for later."

◆ Stride

◆ Draw Cold Iron Spear

"Hey little fellers. What're your names? Why'd you throw that sap at us?" Frogger asks without expecting a response.

◆ Recall Knowledge (Nature +7)

Kazikli raises both hands, and the air between them and the nearest creature twists like a tiny tornado.

◆ Elemental Toss, IC vs. Purple: 1d20 + 9 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 9 + 1 = 25
Bludgeoning: 2d8 + 1 ⇒ (7, 7) + 1 = 15

"Begone! You will not be allowed into this world!" He roars at the new arrival, voice amplified by the rushing wind.

◆ Demoralize, Blood Magic vs. Pink: 1d20 + 11 + 1 ⇒ (18) + 11 + 1 = 30

When the others were up he went to Lydia and gave her two bottles with orange liquid in it, just like burning flames would be captured in the bottles

"Here, this is for you." After seeing what he is giving away he says

"Oh, no sorry these are not it. It is better not drink those. I must come up with some labels..." he reaches for two bottles od dark liquid and gives them to Lydia

2x Moderate Drakeheart Mutagens for you

"Thank you," Lydia says as she carefully stores the potions in her belt pouch. The mix-up of potions doesn't exactly give her the vote of confidence but she tells herself- what's the worse that can happen

----

Reflex save: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (5) + 11 = 16

Lydia is caught off guard and slips onto the ground. She quickly stands up and steps onto solid footing. She looks closely to see where these creatures are coming from

Actions: ◆stand up, ◆ step, ◆ Seek 30 ft cone in direction of enemies to see where they are coming from
↺ Nimble Dodge first attack vs Lydia each round

Then he comes to Natesh

"Here, keep one as well. If Lydia will be in trouble and you need to go in. It may let you stand longer..."

1x Moderate Drakeheart Mutagen for Natesh

Natesh eyes the mixture with some wariness, but after a moment secures the alchemical concoction. "My attempts at direct combat have had mixed results, I certainly can't turn this down if it can offer any help at all. I'm grateful for the assistance."

*****

Combat
Reflex: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

Managing to retain his footing and immediately moves out for more certain ground.

"In other circumstances I wouldn't think ill threatening me with a fall, but I don't doubt your attacks will end there. I demand you end your putrid attack!" Natesh finishes a motion creating a line of of arcing electricity between the pair.

Electricity (Inspire Courage), basic Reflex DC 19: 2d4 + 3 + 1 ⇒ (2, 3) + 3 + 1 = 9

◆ Stride, ◆ Electric Arc

*****

I would like to make sure the Aid Token is quickly used, if not for allied offensive on an attack then to used the boosted recall knowledge on the pair. I would support using it in either case.

@GM Hopper is missing on the list ;(. I am rolling reflex save as Wolfie as he is the one touching the ground.

Reflex save, Wolfie, DC18: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22

Wolfie stretches its legs but maintains the balance.

Hopper looks at the monsters showing up.

He yells with his high-pitched voice "What the hell are those?"

Goblin reaches to his bandolier and takes out a bottle of red fluid. With one swift move, he tosses it at the closest of the enemies

Alchemical fire, inspire courage: 1d20 + 10 + 1 ⇒ (2) + 10 + 1 = 13
Damage, fire, inspire corage, burn it!: 2d8 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (8, 3) + 1 + 1 = 13 +2 fire splash damage if not critical failed +3 persistent fire damage.

Then Hopper commands the Wolfie to begin surrounding the enemy,

"The cavalry will strike from the back!" yells Hopper apparently missing the fact that he is the only cavalry that they have.

He reaches for the cold iron sickle

1st: throw bomb (quick bomber)
2nd: command animal (2 x moves 40 ft each)
3rd: take out sickle

Sorry Hopper! Don't know why you're not there. Will fix it on my next post :)

Both Frogger and Kazikli knows that the creature are Nuglubs, CE fey that have weakness again cold iron.
Also, you remember that when you move around it, it is able to knock you down as a reaction and its attacks are stronger against flat-footed target and even better against prone target.

Kazikli's spell hit the first Nuglub right on!

Certainly distracted by the whirlwind, the Nuglub Purple fails to avoid Natesh's lightning but his comrade do it partially.

Round 2 (bold can act)
Marcus

Sure, I'll use the aid token just to get it moving.

"Ah... a Nubglub..." Marcus says as he readies his cold iron weapon.

"Cold iron weapons at the ready friends, and be careful when you approach, they'll have you flat on your back in no time."

He quickly ◆moves down near Natesh and reaches out his hand, waggling his fingers. Suddenly they turn jet black and lengthen across the cavern, tearing into the pair of foes.

◆◆Casting Grim Tendrils, save DC 19 for half and no bleed

Negative Energy Damage: 2d4 ⇒ (3, 3) = 6 +1 bleed

The Nuglub resists part of Marcus' spell and doesn't look happy!

The other one, concentrates also, and like the first time, a flake of putrid grease appears under the feet of the Frogger and Lydia.

Then the Nuglub moves to give flank to his comrades.

The wounded Nuglub moves and strike twice at Lydia, she easily avoids the bite, but is unable to deflect the claw and she's wounded. But the creature is unable to surprise Lydia!

Then, several mushrooms glows, forming a circle and in a flash a third creature appears!

Lydia quickly understand that these is the Mushroom Ring and that it could be disabled, to stop calling feys.
Disable the Ring Thievery (trained) or Nature(trained) to rearrange the mushrooms to disrupt the portal (two actions), or dispel magic to counteract the magical properties; three successes are required to disable the portal.

Round 2 (bold can act)
Active Buff - None -
Marcus
Nuglub (purple) -33HP
Nuglub (Pink)
Nuglub (blue)
Frogger - Ref/Acro DC18 or prone
Hopper
Natesh
Lydia -7HP Ref/Acro DC18 or prone
Kazikli

Round 3 (bold can act)
Marcus

Kazikli traces one hand through the air in the same pattern as the glowing mushrooms lit up in. He then throws it to the side as if dashing a sandcastle.

◆◆ Dispel Magic, Counteract: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10
Hero Point!: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15

Not finding much success there, he returns to bellowing at the advancing nuglubs. "You've been warned. Only worse awaits you here than stagnation and death in your squalid homes."

◆ Demoralize Purple: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (14) + 11 = 25

Nice, from text it sounds like my Deny Advantage class feature was used. I was going to mention it but didn't think I'd get flanked so quickly!

Reflex: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (15) + 11 = 26

Lydia nearly loses her footing again with the chaos of the battle. Seeing another creature appear she warns the group, "They're coming through the Mushroom Ring. We need to disable it!" Lydia then attempts to strike back at Purple with her jagged sword. Once she's made her strike, she drops her second sword and tries to get to work on disabling the mushroom ring.

Strike Purple w/ sawtooth saber: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18 S Dmg: 1d6 ⇒ 4

Disable (Thievery, Trained): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12

◆strike Purplee, ◇drop 2nd weapon for free hand, ◆◆Disable
↺ Nimble Dodge first Atk each round.

GM: From Lydia's examination is there an advantage to succeeding with dispel magic compared to skill checks?

I also wanted to confirm that her aid token was marked as used

Reflex: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (6) + 5 = 11

Frogger yelps as he is tossed to the ground. "Ouch! That's gonna bruise" He says as he tries to stand up and approaches the mushroom circle.

◆ Stand up

◆ Stride into the water difficult terrain so can't step

◆ Strike out at blue w/ cold iron spear

Attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (7) + 6 = 13
damage: 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 1 = 7

Grim tendrils was a line attack, so it was targeting both that were there last round.

Marcus calls out, "Hold the line just a bit longer and we'll stem the tide!"

Inspire Courage, Disable ring

Nature: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17

Hopper jumps off Wolfie's saddle and begins to rearrange mushrooms.

Nature: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (20) + 6 = 26

Dismount & Disable ring. Sorry for dry post, busy weekend

Wolfie turns his head to the side and spots Lydia in trouble. He begins to make his way to aid here. As the Wolfie gets closer he begins to growl

Mature animal can take 1 action when not commanded - here it is. Providing flanking