(#2-12) "Snakes in the Grass" (Outpost V: Rivalry) (Inactive)

Game Master rainzax

The Pathfinder Society dispatches agents to attend a conference and secure agreements with the hobgoblin nation of Oprak. Travelling through dangerous terrain to reach their destination, the Pathfinders quickly discover a complication when they learn that the nefarious Aspis Consortium is also attending the talks. It’s all up to the Pathfinders to make a strong impression with the hobgoblins, all while foiling any attempts from Aspis to make inroads of their own.


Slides / Maps > Snakes in the Grass
Action Symbols > Single (◆), Double (◆◆), Triple (◆◆◆), Free (◇), Reaction (↺)
Status Symbols > ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status conditions
Challenge Points > 2+2+4+4 = 12


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Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

We begin our story on a trek headed for Oprak, a territory carved from a sparsely-populated, forbidding, three-hundred-miles-across section of the Mindspin Mountains (between Nidal and Nirmathas), enroute to said territory, on an expedition through that surrounded-on-all-sides mountain range, with but a single post-marked missive to summon thee!

Sparking Character Introductions:
When introducing yourselves in your opening post, choose one or more Intro Questions below to answer (first spoiler). Then, at your option, please post your Proficiency and Modifier (and any relevant Skill Feats) in the following skills that represent your Background Knowledge (second spoiler). Finally, review the missive sent to you from Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch (third spoiler):

Intro Questions:
Q) How did you arrive in the Mindspin Mountains headed for Oprak? Describe your long journey here!
Q) Are you better with Giving orders or Taking orders? Why? Are you more suited to Lead or Follow? Why?
Q) Have you ever been part of a Military? What was your Rank? Or another hierarchal organization with ranks?
Q) Are you a Negotiator? What experience do you have settling Contracts? Are you more a Talker or a Supporter?
Q) What are your thoughts on the Hobgoblin people? Are you aware of the stereotypes surrounding them? Do you agree?

Background Knowledge:
Recall Knowledge
-Aspis Consortium Lore
-Hobgablin Lore
-Mercantile Lore
-Oprak Lore
-Society
-Underworld Lore

Gather Information
-Diplomacy
-Mountain Lore
-Survival

Missive:

Greetings Pathfinders,
Past dealings with the hobgoblin nation of Oprak have finally borne fruit. After sending a trial squad of hobgoblin troops to Absalom to train in Society protocol, the hobgoblin nation has now invited the Society to trade talks taking place a camp on the nation’s western border. You and your companions are to represent the Society and secure an executed trade agreement with Oprak.

Rendezvous with Sergeant Drussem, a strong supporter of the Society, at the Shoreline Drinkhall in the East Shore district of Korvosa. As you may already be aware, Drussem is an invaluable source of information about her fellow hobgoblins and a supporter of the Society. Drussem will escort you through the harsh Mindspin Mountains to the camp. It may take you through cold mountains, so be sure to purchase any equipment you need in town. The Society is not the only organization that Oprak has reached out to; the Aspis Consortium, have somehow slithered their way into the upcoming talks and wrapped their coils around a seat at the trade table. Keep your eyes on the Aspis’ agents at all times. The Pathfinder Society would see Oprak aligning with the Aspis Consortium over the Pathfinders as a great diplomatic loss that would further empower the Aspis Consortium and likely cause the Society to lose a valuable potential ally.

Safe travels,
-Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch

Next, if you could each proceed to Discussion to complete the Check In.

Finally, without further ado, let us smoke out the Snakes in the Grass!

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

Duvik, a taller than average goblin with white fur, rides a cave gecko rather than a horse or a pony. Disgusting creatures, those equines. He wears a horned helmet and studded leather armor. He's got a multitude of weapons stashed around his person.

Duvik would describe himself as the champion of the Bear Snare Tribe, and indeed, he learned to fight from his father, the chieftan. But are the warbands of the Gorumite tribes of goblins in the Linnorm kingdoms militaries or loosely-affiliated anarchy?

His time among Ulfen raiding ships could at least be more charitably viewed as military service. He didn't captain his own ship, or serve as a mate. He was a sailor. But he's fought at the direction of others. Mostly the directions given were "There!"

Hobgoblins enslave goblin tribes, everyone knows this. But Duvik is stronger than the average goblin. Gorum has blessed Duvik with mighty muscles! If they try to enslave Duvik, Duvik will make them hurt!

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Cookie is a Kobold with scales colored with particularly shiny and bright brass with highlights streaks of blue and silver. From the way, he carries himself, his hide armor, and the selection of weapons it is obvious he is a warrior.

Despite being of small stature, the brass-colored Kobold believes himself to carry the soul of a great dragon and as such rightfully has dominion over the lesser races. He is much more suited to lead and give orders.

Having found himself temporarily reincarnated as a draconic kobold, rather than a great and mightly true dragon he has had to learn to rely heavily on the art of negotiation through diplomacy and intimidation.

He has given little thought to the Hobgoblin people or their stereotypical behavior.

Background Knowledge skills:

Recall Knowledge
-Diplomacy +10
-Survival +7

As the trail crest a hill giving a good view of the Mindspin Mountains ahead, Cookie’s thoughts wonder again about the missive from venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch summoning him to Oprak for trade talks with hobgoblins. Bushing the dust off of his riding dog mount, ” This trip would be much quicker if we could fly, but then we would miss the journey of a hundred thousand steps.”

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Redd was excited to finally have some time off from completing missions for the Pathfinder Society. She was given instructions to escort a group of new Pathfinder recruits to Magnimar, Varisia, for their first mission. She was told that after escorting the group, she could take some time off and enjoy Varisia for a bit until she was once again needed. She had always dreamed of spending time in Varisia's wine country and its idyllic little towns.

Redd greatly enjoyed meeting new people and making new friends. She looked forward to meeting the new recruits. The next morning, she showed up on time to the Venture Captain's office and, much to her surprise, discovered the new recruits were all goblins. Five rambunctious goblins. Although she knew they were going to be a handful, Redd was going to make the best of it. The Venture Captain explained that currently no ships in port were willing to allow five goblins aboard to travel the long journey to Varisia. Redd, being the amiable motherly sort and with her skills at smuggling halfling slaves out of Cheliax before she became a Pathfinder, was perfect for the job.

With the party of rambunctious goblins in her charge, they set out for the long journey. Most of the trek went pretty smoothly, according to Redd. However, there was the incident where one goblin fell into a hunter's spiked pit trap in the woods. Redd patched him up and they continued on their way. The next week, two of the goblins found a fire beetle near the campsite in the evening. The two pranksters managed to corral the cat-sized vermin into one of the other's bedroll. The fire beetle found it the perfect place to hide. Unfortunately for the goblin that went to sleep later that evening, the fire beetle sprayed its incendiary fluid on the poor little guy. Redd was quick with a blanket to smother the flames before he was burnt to a crisp. After Redd issued a quick scolding and the group managed to have a good night's rest, they continued on their journey. Redd managed to secure passage for the group on a couple riverboats and they eventually, and safely, made it to Magnimar. Redd dropped her charges off at the Lodge. She really did enjoy their company when the little buggers weren't being annoying pests. She actually learned quite a lot about being a goblin. In turn, she taught them how to be a Pathfinder. Hopefully, it worked. After a tearful farewell with her goblin friends (and many thanks from the Venture Captain in Magnimar) she set off to find a cozy inn for dinner and a good night's rest.
Vacation time!
Boy, was little Redd Appleblossom excited!
Finding a quaint café, Redd quickly ordered a hearty meal to enjoy by herself. Partway through the meal, a small winged snake flew in through the window. It dropped a small sealed envelope on Redd's table and flew back out as quickly as it flew in. Redd carefully opened the letter and read the contents. Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch instructed her to meet with a Sergeant Drussem in Korvosa. Surely, Miss Heidmarch chose Redd for this mission due to her diplomatic skills and her enjoyment of meeting new people and learning about their culture.

Redd took her time to finish her meal. Her vacation will have to come at another time.

----------------------------------

Redd now finds herself travelling with new friends to the hobgoblin nation of Oprak.

Background Knowledge:

Recall Knowledge:
-Society +6
Gather Information
-Diplomacy +9


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Rendezvous with Drussem (Part One)

You all get to know each other a little better as you begin to make you way to the Shoreline Drinkhall in the East Shore district of Korvosa to rendezvous with Drussem.

Off-duty garrison guards and dockworkers constitute much of the clientele of the Shoreline Drinkhall. It has a reputation for fair prices, stiff drinks, and meals more akin to military rations than typical food. A din brought on by grousing dock workers, quieted town guards, and carousing friends fills the tavern, occasionally accented by the clanging of utensils and dishes. At a table near the entrance sits a solitary, sternfaced hobgoblin finishing a modest meal. She wears a polished suit of fur-lined plate armor and carries a sword at her hip. The black, red and white flag of Oprak adorns one of her shoulder plates.

...

Redd:

You know that the young hobgoblin nation of Oprak was carved from a sparsely populated, cross section of the Mindspin Mountains. The small nation exports metallic ores, valuable minerals, and gemstones. Hobgoblins and other creatures have flocked to Oprak, seeking jobs in the new nation’s burgeoning mining industry. General Azaersi, a hobgoblin with a history of animosity towards humans, governs Oprak.

However, she recognizes a need to secure alliances if her nation is to survive, particularly with the threat of the Whispering Tyrant’s undead forces.

Cookie:

You recall that Aspis Consortium Agents have recently begun selecting animal names as team designations. Team members wear small charms depicting the team’s animal namesake.

...

GM Screen:

4d20 ⇒ (1, 4, 18, 2) = 25

...

The Party is Up!

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Redd enters the busy tavern wide-eyed and nervous. She has never mingled with hobgoblins before. She has heard tales of their militaristic ways and cruel reputation, but, she's here on a mission for the Society and will do her best. She pauses to swallow her fear and takes a deep breath before nudging her companions in their sides.
"I betcha that's Sergeant Drussem over there, sitting by herself."
She is reluctant to enter further into the tavern, but finally steels herself and straightens her vest with courage.
"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go talk to her."
With her other half-pint companions in tow, Redd heads toward the impressively armored hobgoblin sitting alone. She avoids making eye contact with any of the patrons as she weaves through the crowd.
She clears her throat loudly over the din of the tavern to get the hobgoblin's attention.
"'Scuse me. Are you Sergeant Drussem? Greetings. My name's Redd. Redd Appleblossom."
Quite nervous, she offers a restrained halfling curtsey and sort of a smile.
"We were told to seek you out and that you would take us into the mountains."
She glances nervously back and forth at her companions.

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Looking around the drinkhall, Cookie notes the lone Hobgoblin Redd pointed out as well as the rest of the patrons. ” Probably right about that.” The Kobold strolls over letting the Halfling bard make first contact as he continues to look around the hall for snake signs.

GM:
Looking to see if any groups of patrons are wearing animal charms. Perc +9


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Rendezvous with Drussem (Part Two)

Sergeant Drussem looks over Redd and Cookie as they approach, and stands to salute "Shorter than I expected. But I'm sure you make up for your height in Cunning" she offers the benefit of the doubt, and gives a command "Please sit" using her open-palmed hand to indicate a 2nd through 5th chairs at the table upon which a half-finished plate of food sits "The meal here is adequate - I have already arranged for yours to arrive shortly - we leave for the Mindspin Mountins at 0800"

She waits for the party to sit themselves before herself sitting back down. Quick math indicates that the Sergeant intends to leave in less than 20 minutes!

Cookie:

You are confident nobody in this establishment is wearing a prominent snake charm on their person!

...

GM Screen:

3d20 ⇒ (6, 7, 12) = 25

...

The Party is Up!

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Cookie returns the salute ” There is a time for some things, and a time for all things; a time for great things, and a time for small things. I am Amalgam Kettledrum, but call me Cookie. Is it safe to talk here?” The small draconian takes a seat.


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Cookie's paranoia propagates easily into Drussem, and she cuts the look back, like winking without having to move her eye, replying with emphasis "It is safe to eat here"

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

"Ooooh, food," Duvik starts to giggle. So far, the hobgoblin is making a good impression of Duvik. 20 minutes is a short time to eat, but Duvik is relatively certain he can polish off a ham or some potatoes during the wait.

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

"Yes, Sergeant!"
Redd salutes in return then climbs up into a chair.

"I can't wait to eat, too. I'm famished."

Sitting at the table made for bigger folks, Redd can barely see over the tabletop. Her bright eyes peer over to Drussem.
"Sooo... Uh, nice to meetcha. Anything you can tell us 'bout this trek into the mountains?"
She says, trying to make conversation with the stern sergeant.

Envoy's Alliance

N Male Gnome (Chameleon Gnome) Investigator 5 | HP 58/58 | AC 23 | F +8 R +12 W +10 | Perc +10 (Low-light vision) | Stealth +12 | 25 ft. | Leads: Irrisen pass, Witch Jadwiga | BM used: | Active Conditions: ---

Ulrich traveled on the ship. He was a short gnome, his skin was brown and hair a bit blueish falling into white. He packed his belongings to meet everyone in Korvosa. He had a plan for this journey, he always had one. He bought a set of shoddy shields from blacksmiths in puddles, that he exchanged in one of the ports for a few crates of solid rum.

Then he negotiated the price for the rum and got a couple of alpacas, the farmer was complaining about some devil creature chupacabra, that was slaughtering them. Ulrich knew nothing about animals so the next part of the journey demanded from him more work than he would like. Finally, he sold the alpacas two harbors later and found a broke wizard who sold him Occultic Spellbook. Ulrich heard about hobgoblins, they don't have many spellcasters, conclusion, there would be someone interested in buying wizard kit to greatness.

This time Ulrich was certain, he is set up for the deal of the century!

Recall knowledge checks:

Lore (Underworld): +8
Lore (Pathfinder): +8

Gather Information
-Diplomacy +9

He enters the inn late, his dark skin and dark hair make him blend nicely with the background, if not for a big coat, jacket and climbing kit that he carries in his hands. He quickly looks through the Inn, in an instant he spots Pathfinder in the company of Hobgoblin.

He approaches the table, and drops the things on the ground.

"You must be Seargeant Drussem, I apologize for being late, the ship took their sweet time to take their passengers to the shore. " He nods his head and turns towards the others

"My name is Ulrich Makaisson, from Makaisson and Fishhead PI, in Absalom." He is carrying comfortable travel clothes and gloves not covering his fingers. At his side hangs kukri and at his back a short bow with a set of arrows. His pack seems to be filled with travel gear. His eyes are keen and his smile trained, he seems to feel comfortable in social situations.

He takes a sit and tries to finish the meal according to the schedule...


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Traveling with Drussem (Part One)

"Good to meet you, Ulrich Makaisson" she adds "So long as we are on time to arrive at the encampment" and indicates for the lad to sit down.

Redd Appleblossom wrote:
"Sooo... Uh, nice to meetcha. Anything you can tell us 'bout this trek into the mountains?" She says, trying to make conversation with the stern sergeant.

"It is a long trip" her curtness here seems to be motivated by what Cookie said as well as the hastiness with which she appears to want to set off promptly.

Everyone having sat down, shortly the ham and potatoes arrive, leaving "0800" just about 10 minutes away. Sergeant Drussem eats heartily - every last morsel on her plate - then begins unpacking some gear onto the table, including winter clothes (goblin, gnome, kobold, and human sized) for those that don't have any - and just as "0800" rolls around, she is standing and ready, and looking expectantly around, as if to say "Are you ready to go?" non-verbally, pays the tab, and out the door "We must not keep Lieutenant Eloqi waiting!"

The party begins their trek into the mountains, and Drussem seems to open up a bit.

Conversation with Drussem:

Each player can ask about one topic below:

1) Lieutenant Eloqi
2) Aspis Consortium
3) Hierarchy and Rank
4) “Elf Magic”
5) Diplomatic Advice
6) Iolite Squad Alpha

Feel free to choose or roll a 1d6?

Sense Direction (Survival):

Everyone please attempt a Sense Direction (Survival) Skill Check vs DC 20 to represent navigating through the Mindspin Mountains!

No penalty for Critical Failure here...

...

Ulrich:

You have heard that the Aspis Consortium is publicly regarded as a diverse group of traders with their own private army of hirelings and mercenaries, and that they have conducted expeditions into the Mindspin Mountains in hopes of uncovering the sources of Oprak’s mineral wealth. On one such expedition, led the Consortium to discover a mining settlement belonging to the Coalfire tribe of kobolds, which was destroyed as a result of the encounter.

...

The Party is Up!

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

"Yay! Ham 'n' taters! You know there's a lot of ways to cook potatoes, right?"

Still peering over the edge of the table, Redd asks Drussem for any advice she may be willing to share.
"Do you have any diplomatic advice for us?"

-----------------------

Survival (untrained): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (19) + 1 = 20
Woah. That was unexpected.

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Cookie eats quickly finishing in time to move on, ” Gifts for us? If I had known I would have gotten you something too.” The Kobold packs away the winter clothing.

Glancing at Ulrich, ”Makaisson and Fishhead PI? I’m not familiar with them, would that be in the merchant quarter?”

Outside the drinkhall Cookie looks around for his hireling and mount. A muscular dwarf comes jogging up with a riding dog in tow, ” Ready to go, Sir?”

”Yes, I hope you got the tools you needed. We have a tight schedule to keep.” The dwarf nods and falls in with the group. Cookie nods in the direction of the dwarf, ”This is Max my personal trainer he does an excellent job of patching me up after battles and he is a passable lawyer too. The dog’s name is Snowball.”

A few hours into the trek into the mounts Cookie rides up next to Drussem at some point ” I understand there are other organizations in the trade talks, what do you know about the Aspis Consortium?”

The small Kobold pulls out his wayfinder checking the heading.
sense Direction (Survival): 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

Duvik devours his food. Goblin culture doesn't place much stock into table manners or "using silverware" so it's quite gruesome to watch him eat. Its quite important for Duvik; how were the potatoes prepared? Hashbrowns? Mashed?

Like Cookie, Duvik will wait until they hit the road before asking the hobgoblin anything. He has bigger things to mind, like the potatoes while back in their meeting place in Korvosa.

"Who ith Lieutenant Eloqi, thargent?" Duvik asks with his prominent lisp.


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Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Traveling with Drussem (Part Two)

Sergeant Drussem looks much more notably at ease once they begin their ascent into the mountains.

Redd Appleblossom wrote:
"Do you have any diplomatic advice for us?"

As they forest turns to the slope of hills, Drussem suggests that the party designate one or two of their own members as “prolocutors” to speak for the party. A prolocutor should have multiple opportunities to impress Eloqi: during formal introductions, when the talks begin, and when the Pathfinders make their bid for an agreement. Drussem cautions the party not to cast accusations against any hobgoblin or other delegate unless able to provide substantial Evidence that proves their accusations. She also suggests the party remain close together, as hobgoblins view untended subordinates with suspicion.

Cookie Amalgam Kettledrum wrote:
A few hours into the trek into the mounts Cookie rides up next to Drussem at some point ” I understand there are other organizations in the trade talks, what do you know about the Aspis Consortium?”

Hills gain increasing slope as Drussem speaks with Cookie "Eloqi knows the Aspis Consortium is reputed to be an unscrupulous trade organization, using cutthroat methods to ensure sales. However, Eloqi also respects strength and is willing to tolerate unsavory methods that he suspects may benefit the nascent hobgoblin nation."

Duvik Nuuk wrote:
"Who ith Lieutenant Eloqi, thargent?" Duvik asks with his prominent lisp.

As the slopes begin to level off, the weather changes, and snowflakes begin to fall from the sky, as Drussem answers Duvik's question "Who is Lieutenant Eloqi? The greatest of us! A distinguished veteran of the Ironfang Legion, Eloqi has aligned himself with General Azaersi’s nation-building efforts, though he harbors a long-seeded distrust of humans and, by extension, both the Aspis Consortium and the Pathfinders. Eloqi will be leading the discussions at the trading camp. He places great value in military discipline, particularly in maintaining schedules, but does not tolerate violence within the camp save in self-defense"

As the snow intensifies, she continues "A strong leader, he demands the delegates within camp be kept free from harm and that their things not be taken as a sign of mutual respect. Threats of violence between delegates are to be met with swift and overwhelming force and would certainly bring the trade talks to an abrupt end. I know you won't try anything funny, but I wanted to be clear about the rules of engagement"

With the temperature rapidly dropping, the Sergeant looks around "Okay - who brought their own winter clothing?"

Please indicate in your next post affirmative or negative!

...

Overland Tracker:

Cookie @ Survival 26 w/ No winter clothing(?)
Duvik @ Survival ?? w/ No winter clothing(?)
Redd @ Survival 20 w/ No winter clothing(?)
Ulrich @ Survival ?? w/ No winter clothing(?)

...

Duvik:

Roll 1d8

1) Mashed
2) Baked
3) Sprouted
4) Fried
5) Boiled
6) Pickled
7) Hash
8) Twice _______ (roll twice and combine results!)

...

The Party is Up!

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Cookie doesn't have winter clothing, though he is resistant to the cold.

GM - didn't Duvik supply us winter clothing at the drinkhall?

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Yep! Got winter clothing back when Redd played Citadel of Corruption.

Envoy's Alliance

N Male Gnome (Chameleon Gnome) Investigator 5 | HP 58/58 | AC 23 | F +8 R +12 W +10 | Perc +10 (Low-light vision) | Stealth +12 | 25 ft. | Leads: Irrisen pass, Witch Jadwiga | BM used: | Active Conditions: ---
Cookie wrote:
]Glancing at Ulrich, ”Makaisson and Fishhead PI? I’m not familiar with them, would that be in the merchant quarter?”

"Close to the border of docks and merchant quarters yes. If you would ever fall into trouble, this is our card. No work is too high or too low for us to reach." says Ulrich smiling

Survival, untrained: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (19) + 0 = 19

Ulrich is wearing his newly bought winter clothes, he looks like a gnome wrapped in a pancake, and he still shivers from cold. "This is not for me, I am a city gnome, not a mountain gnome."

Ulrich listens carefully to what Drussem is responding to other questions.

Drussem wrote:
long-seeded distrust of humans and, by extension, both the Aspis Consortium and the Pathfinders

"Funny enough our delegation does not include humans, there could have been a plan in how our team was assembled." he does not add that they would need help to reach to top shelves as well, as they are a team of runts.

"In the docks, I heard a thing about Aspis Consortium. They are publicly regarded as a diverse group of traders with their own private army of hirelings and mercenaries, and that they have conducted expeditions into the Mindspin Mountains in hopes of uncovering the sources of Oprak’s mineral wealth. On one such expedition, led the Consortium to discover a mining settlement belonging to the Coalfire tribe of kobolds, which was destroyed as a result of the encounter."

During one of the breaks, Ulrich approaches Drussem and asks "Do you have time for a training bout? Only non-lethal attacks, you can keep your gigantic sword in your sheath it will hurt regardless." the small figure smiles.

Assuming that she says yes.

Ulrich stands with his kukri in front of him directed towards the ground, when Drussem is ready, he springs to attack

Attack, non-lethal: 1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (16) + 8 - 2 = 22

His short posture and surprising speed are enough to get a hit in one of his attacks. "So from what I heard Hobgoblins are military society is that right? You have military ranks, are they respected outside of the milit...? " here Ulrich is hit with Drussem sword in the side and falls to the ground "... ugh"

Ulrich fighting skills are not impressive, they are barely passable and everyone knows that he stands no chance against Drussem. However he uses this as an opportunity to get more information from Seargeant and he looks very closely on how she attacks, her footwork, does she leaves any openings when striking.

I would mark Eloqui as my first lead (I can do it as part of conversation). I will mark Aspis delegation as soon as I can.


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Traveling with Drussem (Part Three)

Sergeant Drussem pulls her punches in sparring with Ulrich, striking him down definitively but with restrained severity "Let's hope you can negotiate better than you can fight!"

Ulrich:

Two favors:

1) Can you provide the link to the Lead ability whenever you intend to use it?
2) Can you record your Active Leads in your Character Bar?

As his reward for bravery, Drussem explains "Our society, as compared to yours, is with greater militance, hierarchy, and devotion to the art of war. Our Tribe’s Army is one and the same Her People. To remain strong, those Unfit for active combat duty are scorned and relegated to labor and support duty" She "pops" her neck here with a controlled jerk "Now Get up, gnome, and let's try that again!"

...

"Ah! You, Redd Appleblossom was it, are a Prepared Mountaineer!" She seems impressed with the halfling's self-sufficience.

Bonus Hero Point for Redd!

...

Cookie:

The answer to your question is upthread!

...

"You there: Look alive!"

Duvik?

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

"Duvik uthed to cold. From the Linnorm Kingdomth." Duvik is a snow goblin and can avoid the effects of most frigid temperatures.

1d8 ⇒ 5

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

The brass-colored Kobold puts forth a proposal to the group ” The choice of group Prolocutor is obvious, I am the only dragonkin here and an expert at negotiation having successfully navigated the Iruxi courts of Ekkeshikaar. I would select Redd as my Second being knowable and well-spoken. The rest of the entourage would be Duvik as Sargent of arms and Ulrick as the Tactical specialist. We can either agree on the structure or spend the next few hours discussing it which I am sure would make an impression on our guide Drussem.”

With the weather turning cold Cookie puts on the loaned winter gear and tells his hireling ”Max, make a note to add Winter gear to our next supply list.”

Cookie takes the business card and tucks it away smiling a toothy grin ” Yes next time I’m in Absalon I will have my tax collecting associates give me the lowdown.”

” I’m sure the Pathfinder Society put a great deal of thought in the make-up of our team. It’s not as if they randomly pull names out of hat. It shows the Society’s faith in their racial inclusive policies and will look all the more impressive when we succeed in our mission.”

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Redd hobbles along, stiff limbed from the thick fur coat and leggings, but also toasty warm, in her Extravagent Winter Outfit.
"Yes, ma'am! A Pathfinder should always be prepared."
She smiles with rosy cheeks up at at Drussem.

Redd turns to Cookie.
"I like that name."
Redd, the little baker, remarks to herself.

"Prolocutor. Yes, it does seem an important position. I will be happy to assist."
She tries to bob a curtsy in the thick winter outfit.
"I did help form an alliance between the Sewer Dragons and the Pathfinders. I also used to rescue slaves from Cheliax and give them safe harbor in my home. I had to do a lot of sneaky stuff and plenty of fast talkin' in those days. That was before I became a Pathfinder."


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Traveling with Drussem (Part Four)

"How quickly you assimilate to our ways - It is always best to be direct, to speak only when it will be useful, and to lead with your strongest arm in any endeavor" this seems to be some sort of light praise spritzed over some heavy doses of morale philosophy "A shining example to other, less organized races: Just look what a little hobgoblin discipline can do for your own organization. You then, Cookie, will be the Primary Prolocutor, and you, Redd, will be the Secondary Prolocutor. Let any who speak in dissent do so now!..."

Sergeant Drussem gives a window of opportunity before things are "settled" for her - perhaps an even stronger personality will seize it?...

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Redd thinks for a moment as the group trudges along the snowy trail. She then turns to Drussem with an inquisitive expression.
"Okay. We have a Primary and a Secondary Prolocutor. But, what if I have something important to say that could turn their decision in our favor?"
Redd looks at the ground as they hike, then back at Drussem.
"I think what I'm trying to say is: Will I get a chance to be Primary Proso...(sorry) Prolocutor? What about the others? Can they speak up if they want to?"

Redd deeply reconsiders her position as Secondary Prolocutor. She would be too nervous in such an important position and would probably stumble over her words. Feeling he's much more suited for the position, she glances back at Ulrich to see if he's listening.
"S'cuse me, Ma'am."
She says to Drussem then slows her pace to fall back with her gnome friend.
"Ulrich. Hiya."
She smiles warmly.
"I don't think I'm well suited for the position of being a Prolocutor. I would greatly appreciate it if you considered taking the position."

Envoy's Alliance

N Male Gnome (Chameleon Gnome) Investigator 5 | HP 58/58 | AC 23 | F +8 R +12 W +10 | Perc +10 (Low-light vision) | Stealth +12 | 25 ft. | Leads: Irrisen pass, Witch Jadwiga | BM used: | Active Conditions: ---
Drussem wrote:


"Now Get up, gnome, and let's try that again!"

Ulrich gets up and grabs some snow mixed with sand into his other hand.

He makes an attack and throws sand into her eyes
Feint: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (2) + 7 = 9

But the height difference made his throws miss... He made another attack

Attack, non-lethal: 1d20 + 8 - 2 ⇒ (13) + 8 - 2 = 19

As he again gets up from the ground he says to Drussem "Tell me more about Lieutenant Eloqui, how are they leading divisions, from the front? From back? What is their favorite weapon? Who was the last soldier that was promoted by them? What for?" Why they practice, Ulrich asks more and more questions trying to build a profile of Eloqui hoping that it will help them in diplomatic attempts. I don't expect answers to those questions, but I am RP'ing Purse a lead. It is in my character tagline

Redd wrote:


She says to Drussem then slows her pace to fall back with her gnome friend.
"Ulrich. Hiya."
She smiles warmly.
"I don't think I'm well suited for the position of being a Prolocutor. I would greatly appreciate it if you considered taking the position."

Ulrich looks at Redd and thinks for a moment "Hiya, I can consider taking it, if you don't want it. But I did notice that good fortune surrounds you. At times it could be more important then experience."

I don't mind being the second Prolocutor, But redd has Hafling Luck which gives her a reroll once per day. @GM could Ulrich use: Clue In to give Cookie +1 to his diplomatic attempts? It is circumstance bonus so they same as from Aid. But it would save us a roll. RP argumentation would be that Ulrich studies every bit of information about Eloqui to help tailor the speech so that they approach them from the right angle.

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Cookie looks slightly annoyed that the group is questioning what he thought was obvious "A candle in the dark does no good if one's eyes are closed. I have perfect faith in Redd's abilities."

Turning to the Hobgoblin Drussem, "Out of curiosity, How would hobgoblins settle the issue? Fight to first blood, paperwork at 20 paces or the Lieutenant Eloqui word is law?"

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Redd nods her head.
"Alrighty, then. I'll take the job. I may learn quite a bit from doing it. I'll try to be the best Second Prolocutor I can be."

Redd is slightly puzzled as to why Drussem and Ulrich do this mock fighting. Wanting to have a little fun, Redd subtly casts mage hand while the two are sparring. She taps Cookie on his shoulder and points up to the mage hand. She mouths the words "watch this" to him. She directs the phantom hand to pick a pinecone from a high branch and moves the pinecone a few feet above Ulrich's head, she then dismisses the hand to drop it.
"Tee-hee-hee."
She giggles softly.

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

"Paperwork? Hobgoblin ith tholdier! They capture gobbo tribeth and make them fight in armieth. Not wizardth writing wordth on paper!" Duvik laughs. Duvik is fine with the others taking the lead in talking pretty. He doesn't know what a sargent at arms means, but he's willing to use his scythe if the Hobbos try to enslave his Pathfinder tribe.


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Snowbound Stop (Part One)

The frigid wind howls and flurries fly as a ferocious storm overtakes the mountain pass. A horrid cracking sound of a distant avalanche echoes the length of the narrow valley as tons of snow plummet down upon the path ahead.

"Curses!" Sergeant Drussem's expression quickly turns to frustration "Lieutenant Eloqi despises tardiness! We may have to take the longer trek around!"

Little does the Sergeant know she is in the presence of skilled Pathfinders!

Overland Tracker:

Sense Direction DC 20

Cookie @ Survival 26 w/ Borrowed Winter Clothing to Scout to Sense Direction
Duvik @ Survival ?? w/ No Winter Clothing but Is Snow Goblin to Scout
Redd @ Survival 20 w/ Well Worn Winter Clothing to Scout
Ulrich @ Survival 19 w/ Brand New Winter Clothing to ??

...

1) Everyone - Please post your Exploration Mode in your Character Bar!
2) Cookie (unless Duvik rolls higher) - will you narrate how you are able to find a path straight through?

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

Survival: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (10) - 1 = 9

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

"Oh dear. An avalanche? I hope another one doesn't happen on the route we take. I'll keep an eye out for any hazards or dangers as we travel."

Since we have a couple party members already scouting, Redd will Search for Exploration activity. Perception +8, Keen Eyes +2 seek.

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

With the sound of a distance avalanche ahead and Crussem’s frustration, Cookie smiles a toothy grin, ” No we can make it through if we stick to the side of the mountain with visible tree trunks and use ropes. The way will be slippery with the loose snow, but the danger of another avalanche is small until the snow has had a chance to collect again. As the reincarnation of a Silver dragon soul, I know snow.”


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Arrival at Camp (Part One)

Hero Point:

Cookie!

Due to Cookie's expert navigation, it is late afternoon a couple (rather than a few) days later when the party reaches sight of the camp. Only a few remnants of melting snow linger here from the earlier storm. The trade camp lies below the tree line in an isolated valley along a stretch of Oprak’s western border. A series of ditches, earthen walls, and buried alchemical mines form the camp’s outer defenses. A collection of dirt-floored huts rests at the center of the camp’s borders. The enclosures here are all constructed of mud and wood collected from stunted trees dotting the nearby mountainsides.

Map is Updated!

Escorting the PCs into camp, Drussem ensures that they have lodging and informs them that their introduction to Lieutenant Eloqi will take place in the meeting hall in two hours. Until then, the PCs are free to explore the camp, so long as they don’t cause any trouble.

...

Investigation Skill Challenge Tracker:

To represent one "round" of investigation, please proceed as follows, one "round" at a time:

1) Place your Token on the Map (one per "round")
2) Describe where on the Map you are making a skill check:
3a) Roll a Gather Information (Diplomacy) check vs DC 16
3b) Roll a Search (Perception) check vs DC 17
3c) Roll an Investigate (Lore or Other) vs DC 18
4) Post any Skill Feats that you think may come into play
5) Describe what your skill check "looks like" and feel free to be descriptive!

(Note: only one skill check per "round", each "round" represents about one hour)

...

Round One
Cookie to ?? @ ?? (??)
Duvik to ?? @ ?? (??)
Redd to ?? @ ?? (??)
Ulrich to ?? @ ?? (??)

Round Two
Cookie to ?? @ ?? (??)
Duvik to ?? @ ?? (??)
Redd to ?? @ ?? (??)
Ulrich to ?? @ ?? (??)

...

The Party is Up!

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Eyes wide in awe at the hobgoblin camp, Redd is excited to meet new folks.
"Hey, guys, I'm going to mingle with the inhabitants here. Try an' get to know these folks better and learn a bit more about them. I'm sure we'll see each other in passing as we explore this place. Anyone care to join me? Okay, then. Be careful, everyone."
Redd takes her leave and cautiously approaches a group of hobgoblins lingering near the mess hall and chatting with each other. She introduces herself and explains, in the goblin tongue, the reason why she's here. She then engages in small talk with the hobgoblins.
Redd speaks goblin.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (3) + 9 = 12

"I'm so sorry! I didn't know 'I like cake, too' also means 'your mother is a corpulent pig'."
Redd has a bit of trouble differentiating goblin with the hobgoblin dialect.

Envoy's Alliance

N Male Gnome (Chameleon Gnome) Investigator 5 | HP 58/58 | AC 23 | F +8 R +12 W +10 | Perc +10 (Low-light vision) | Stealth +12 | 25 ft. | Leads: Irrisen pass, Witch Jadwiga | BM used: | Active Conditions: ---

Ulrich begins to enjoy his training sessions with Drussem. He learns a lot about hobgoblins and their way of fighting, how they respond when others (himself) cheats. He also tries to pull as much information from the Seargeant as possible.

When they arrive at the camp, Ulrich just throws his stuff into the hut and goes to Drussem "I enjoyed our training together, I am glad to hear that you are exactly how Pathfinders have described you." he gives her a handshake and heads to the messhall. There is nothing better than chatting while eating.

"May I sit down? I am Ulrich, I came with Pathfinders here. So tell me what is happening lately in the camp? I can help you fix that armor of yours when you finish eating."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (8) + 9 = 17 I would argue that +1 from Pursue a lead would qualify here, as according to the 'You might not be the most charming, but you see things for what they really are and develop an understanding of a social situation rapidly. Every conversation is an investigation, after all, and you never know what you might uncover!'

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Setting down his pack, Cookie tells Max to take care of his riding dog and stay out of sight in the tent until needed.

Keeping in mind Drussem’s advice to stick together, The Brass-colored Kobold goes to the Messhall to gather information about the hobgoblin’s expectation for the trade treaty speaking to some off duty Opraks, ” You are known for being a self-sufficient group, what agreements would you hope to see included in the treaty and what do you think Lieutenant Eloqi will offer in exchange?”

Gather Information (deplomacy) DC16 round one: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Investigation Skill Challenge Tracker:

To represent one "round" of investigation, please proceed as follows, one "round" at a time:

1) Place your Token on the Map (one per "round")
2) Describe where on the Map you are making a skill check:
3a) Roll a Gather Information (Diplomacy) check vs DC 16
3b) Roll a Search (Perception) check vs DC 17
3c) Roll an Investigate (Lore or Other) vs DC 18
4) Post any Skill Feats that you think may come into play
5) Describe what your skill check "looks like" and feel free to be descriptive!

(Note: only one skill check per "round", each "round" represents about one hour)

...

Round One
Cookie @ ?? to Gather Info (Diplomacy) @ 18 (Success)
Duvik @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)
Redd @ Mess Hall to to Gather Info (Diplomacy) @ 12 (Failure)
Ulrich to Gather Info (Diplomacy) @ 17+1 (Success)

Round Two
Cookie @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)
Duvik @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)
Redd @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)
Ulrich @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)

Hero Point?

Horizon Hunters

Male Snow Goblin Fighter 7 HP 90/90 Hero Points 1/1 AC 25 (27 Shield) Saves F+13 R+14 W+10 Perc +12 (Darkvision, +14 on init) Exploration Scout Active Conditions: Reactions: Shield Block, Attack of Oppurtunity, Goblin Scuttle

Duvik really wants to investigate the competition here. Having Aspis (which might be the worst word for him to say with his lisp) here is dangerous, and he want to see if they came here prepared for war. Lt. Eloqi may not want violence, in her camp but Duvik doesn't want to be caught unawares.

Warfare Lore at the Aspis Housing: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (14) + 8 = 22

Round two, right?

Duvik will also take a look around the meeting hall to see if there's anything there that's hidden or a detail that may help his team.

Perception: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (9) + 8 = 17


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Missing one token on the map!

Envoy's Alliance

N Male Gnome (Chameleon Gnome) Investigator 5 | HP 58/58 | AC 23 | F +8 R +12 W +10 | Perc +10 (Low-light vision) | Stealth +12 | 25 ft. | Leads: Irrisen pass, Witch Jadwiga | BM used: | Active Conditions: ---

Added Ulrich avatar to the map, sorry about that

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Are the talks/negotiations the same day as our arrival?


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Arrival at Camp (Part Two)

As Duvik wanders off from the rest of the group, the rest of the hobgoblins in camp give him the stink eye - his nosiness at scouting the "competition" does not go unnoticed!

Ulrich:

You hear the following rumor:

• The delegation of the Aspis Consortium is led by Artennod Raike. She is accompanied by her valet, a halfling named Greeleep Muckfellow, and her six bodyguards. They arrived under heavy snowfall during the storm’s onset sometime ahead of the Pathfinders.

Cookie:

You hear the following rumor:

• Since arriving, the Aspis agents have largely stuck to their lodgings, leaving only on rare occasion. The Aspis delegation have only met with Lieutenant Eloqi once, when they were formally introduced. Lieutenant Eloqi openly remarked to his attendant that the Aspis agents appeared feeble and weak.

Duvik:

You make the following observations:

• Artennod Raike, leader of the Aspis Consortium delegation, is accompanied by six bodyguards and a halfling valet named Greeleep Muckfellow. Raike wears a necklace affixed with a glass vial pendant filled with ruby-red liquid and capped with a depiction of coiled serpent. She wields an axe with the image of a kobold on it and is supported by a hunting hawk.

• The Aspis agents appear underequipped for a lengthy, mountainous trek.

...

Investigation Skill Challenge Tracker:

To represent one "round" of investigation, please proceed as follows, one "round" at a time:

1) Place your Token on the Map (one per "round")
2) Describe where on the Map you are making a skill check:
3a) Roll a Gather Information (Diplomacy) check vs DC 16
3b) Roll a Search (Perception) check vs DC 17
3c) Roll an Investigate (Lore or Other) vs DC 18
4) Post any Skill Feats that you think may come into play
5) Describe what your skill check "looks like" and feel free to be descriptive!

(Note: only one skill check per "round", each "round" represents about one hour)

...

Round One
Cookie @ ?? to Gather Info (Diplomacy) @ 18 (Success)
Duvik @ Aspis Lodging to Investigate (Warfare Lore) @ 22 (Success)
Redd @ Mess Hall to to Gather Info (Diplomacy) @ 12 (Failure)
Ulrich to Gather Info (Diplomacy) @ 17+1 (Success)

Round Two
Cookie @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)
Duvik @ Meeting Hall to Search (Perception) @ 17 (Success)
Redd @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)
Ulrich @ ?? to ?? @ ?? (??)

...

The Party is Up!

Envoy's Alliance

N Male Gnome (Chameleon Gnome) Investigator 5 | HP 58/58 | AC 23 | F +8 R +12 W +10 | Perc +10 (Low-light vision) | Stealth +12 | 25 ft. | Leads: Irrisen pass, Witch Jadwiga | BM used: | Active Conditions: ---

When they meet up Ulrich shares with the others

"I learned a bit about our competitors. The delegation of the Aspis Consortium is led by Artennod Raike. She is accompanied by her valet, a halfling named Greeleep Muckfellow, and her six bodyguards. They arrived under heavy snowfall during the storm’s onset sometime ahead of the Pathfinders."

When Ulrich sees Duvik and nods his head "I think we should stick together, they don't seem to like when we split. "

Lore (Underworld): 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (10) + 18 = 28 With potentially +1

Ulrich moves around the mess hall, in every military society there is a black market, someone must organize illegal gambling, bring in alcohol, or import better clothing or sleeping bags. He keeps his ears and eyes open to find that one. He has enough of knick-knacks with him to exchange for information.

Funny enough that is one of those situations where Hobnobber would get crazy value

Woudl what I learned to be enough to designate Aspis delegation as my 2nd lead? Interrogation methodology says that I need 1 minute conversation to do that.

Envoy's Alliance

Kobold Barbarian 5; HP 81, AC 23 (25 w/shield); F+12, R+10, W+9; Perc +9, Dark-Vision; explore: Shield raised

Cookie relates to the others ” Apparently Lieutenant Eloqi was unimpressed with Aspis agents when introduced. We should endeavor to present strength and confidence.”

Finding Duvik wondering around by himself Cookie gives the goblin a loud reprimand benefit of any bystanders, ” Mr. Nuuk, I am giving you a verbal warning for leaving the group. No not let it happen again. We do not what our Hobgoblin host thinking ill of Pathfinders.” The Kobold hopes Duvik realizes the words are for show, but he has no way to relay that intent.

Hopefully leading Duvik back to the mess hall, the Kobold comments ” I would like a chance to inspect the defensive Earthworks at some time. There are plenty of threats in the mountains that might descend upon the camp to test their tooth and claw against the Hobgonblin’s steal.”

At the mess hall, Cookie continues to interact with the camp’s personnel to get a sense of what is going on. at Mess Hall Gather Information (diplomacy) DC16 round two: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (6) + 12 = 18


Lost on Spirit Road (Maps) | Action Symbols ➤ (◆), (◆◆), (◆◆◆), (◇), (↺) | Spell Templates | Hero Points @ Brendar (☑□), Natalu (☑☑☑), Zisiro (□□□) | Status Symbols: ♥️ hit points, ☘️ hero points, ✋ held items, ⚕ status condition | Contact Sheet

Redd - awaiting your second check!

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

Still waiting for an answer to my question I posted in this thread & discussion thread: Are the talks/negotiations the same day as our arrival?

Envoy's Alliance

NG fem halfling | Bard (maestro) 4 | Emissary | HP 42/42 | AC 20 | F +7, R +11, W +9 | Perc +9 (low-light) | +2 Seek | Stealth +9 |Low-light vision | speed 25' | Spells: cantrips/5, 1st/3, 2nd/3 | Focus pts. 2 | Hero Pts. 2/2 | Explore Mode: search +8 | Active Conditions: ---

"You know, I'd really like to unload some of my gear. I'm gonna go drop this off in our tent."
Redd heads to the Lodging tent and sets her adventurer's pack near a bunk. Curious, and maybe a bit paranoid, she searches around the tent for any complimentary items the hosts may have left for their guests. She also looks for anything out of place. She checks the tent stakes to make sure they're well secured, looks for hidden pests in the pillow cases, and looks for anything else out of the ordinary.
Perception & Seek: 1d20 + 8 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 8 + 2 = 17

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