GM Eeeeka PF1e #6-13 Of Kirin and Kraken (Inactive)

Game Master Meranthi

Venture Captain Amara Li has asked you to meet in a private room of the Gilded Lotus teahouse in Hisuikirasu, the capital of Kwanlai. As you wait for the server to take you back, you have some time to introduce yourselves to each other.

An elegant kitsune woman sits in the room, wearing a formal white dress that looks much more suited to finding a husband at the prince's ball than adventuring in damp caverns. Judging by the new-looking ring on her finger, she may have. She sips tea and munches on a slice of sweet breadthat seems out of place in Tian Xia. "Please, try some," she says, gesturing at a sliced loaf to her side.

To any new faces, she continues. "My name is Sunny Reasonknot, née Alemnin. I am one of the Society's negotiators, when one is needed."

Seeing some familiar companions, she instead greets them, "I go by Sunny now, at least until we are on the road. I took a bit of time off to remain in Bellis after our last adventure. It is good to join you once more, now that I am back to work."

"Hey there, 'Sunny'!" Elena is happy to see her arrive. "Nice to see you again. I'm glad you are here. I'm not particularly versed on the customs in this side of the world, but with you I'm sure we will be fine in that regard."

A rather tall woman with snow white hair, an unconventional sailors outfit and a purewooden musket on her back looks around and as speaks her voice is a bit harsh like it has grit from gunpowder

"well this is turning into a motly gathering of sorts, so what is the mission, anyone have an idea?"

In zips a vibrating bright peach gnome, flying at eye-level for most medium-sized folks. She immediately begins babbling at a mile a minute. "Hi! I'm Pai! Oh, hi Elena! Hoo! Though I'd get here first, but you all beat me. Speaking of beating me, my last mission kicked my butt! As in, someone had to go fetch my body and put me back in it, if you know what I mean. Dang! So I really hope that doesn't happen again. And for the love, had to go out and buy a torch and a sunrod, 'cause yeah. Stuff happened. OOO! That bread looks good! Mind if I try some?" At least she stops talking while she's chewing.

"Pai! Nice to see you ag-... WHAT!? That sounds horrible! I have an ioun torch with me but I'm always looking to be prepared."

An average sized dude in a dark green cloak, its hood mostly hiding his face enters the room, silently observing the four women there for a moment before stepping forward. He pulls back his hood to reveal long, dark hair and a face with sharp Elven features. He bows curtly before saying, ”Mythryndyr at your service…but most folk call me Myth…”

Looking over at Pai, he cocks his head before a shy smile appears on his face. He approaches her and nods. ”I thought I recognized you. Pai…umm…it’s on the tip of my tongue, don’t tell me…Shecks! We served on that Riddleport mission several years back…posing as Aspis…sabotaged their relations with the Callistrians and Lissalans. You might not remember me but I never forget a face…”

"Ohmygosh! Myth! It's been forever! Now that was a fun job! Faking out those stupid Apsis--I mean, it wasn't all that hard, was it? I honestly don't know how that organization didn't self-destruct years ago! How've you been?"

Myth smiles fondly as he reminisces with Pai on that mission. ”Oh, you know how it is…missions here, missions there…same ole, same ole. How ‘bout you?”

A gnome with hair like tall wild grass enters the teahouse accompanied by a snow leopard bigger than her. She looks around and appears to position a hand over a bundle of sticks she carries on her hip, a strange thing to be so protective over it would seem to most if not all paying attention. Wordlessly she joins the collection of people after her companion seems to recognize them through scent, likely from one lodge or another.

Sunny stands and embraces Elena, then holds her shoulders as she announced, "You must tell me everything you've done since that foul business with the queen. It's been far too long - my fault, of course - since we've had a moment to chat."

In turn, she clasps the hands of Pai, Alani and Linida, beaming as she says, "It is an honor and pleasure to meet each of you. I'm sure we will have a wonderful experience together."

She looks at Mythryndyr for a moment with a puzzled look. "You seem familiar somehow, though I do not think we have met." She still offers a hand and a smile before taking her seat again.

She is unreadable as she slides the untouched loaf of bread off the table to make room for whatever is to come in the briefing.

A small bird flutters in, circling Mythryndyr once before chirping, "You'd think with a nose like yours, you'd be able to tell the difference between two humanoids." The thrush then looks around the room, seeing Linida's big cat, and flutters onto one of the inn's support beams. "Tweet?"

"Lesya, I thought I told you not to comment on the physical features of others," Sunny scolds the newcomer. "My apologies - my companion Oleksandra has still not learned any manners. Which is why she will not be seeing any of Lumi's food for the next, say, eight years."

Sticking out a tongue is not something Oleksandra's species' mouth is particularly designed for, but somehow the bird manages it.

She looks at Mythryndyr for a moment with a puzzled look. "You seem familiar somehow, though I do not think we have met." She still offers a hand and a smile before taking her seat again.

Myth smiles, takes her hand, brushing his lips lightly upon it as he bows. ”Indeed we have not, else I would’ve remembered, m’lady…I look forward to serving with you…”

A small bird flutters in, circling Mythryndyr once before chirping, "You'd think with a nose like yours, you'd be able to tell the difference between two humanoids."

Chuckling lightly, Myth shakes his head. ”Can you not, my feathered friend? Then we are alike in that as I have a hard time telling the difference between birds; I was wondering if you might taste like chicken?” he says with a wink.

"My apologies - my companion Oleksandra has still not learned any manners. Which is why she will not be seeing any of Lumi's food for the next, say, eight years."

”No apologies necessary, m’lady; if I can’t laugh at myself, whom would I laugh at? Besides, most comments I get are about my pointy ears, this was the first comment I’ve received on my nose, most amusing…”

I was talking about WRD not being able to smell the difference between Mythryndyr and Wymarc, but your way is good too.

Oops, my bad ;)

Now that you have all gathered, a servant bows to you and leads you back to a private room where Amara Li patient waits. Beside her sits a tengu woman wearing a rich green-and-gold kimono and an elaborate beaded headpiece, her possessions and feathers immaculate. Her regal appearance is overshadowed only by the sheathed katana at her side and the stern look of an experienced warrior upon her face. Amara Li speaks once everyone has arrived and had an opportunity to enjoy tea.

“Some time has passed since I have been able to enjoy the company of distinguished Pathfinders such as you. Nearly two years ago, I expanded the Society’s operations in Tian Xia with the assistance of honored friends, and from there the Society has unearthed many discoveries once lost to this age. It is because of this matter that I would introduce you to my companion.” She motions to the tengu woman beside her. “This is Shiyo Takarak, a samurai of the Way of the Kirin, a noble organization we have worked with often and are sure to work with much more in the future. Shiyo has made a request of the Society, and it is our duty to oblige.”

Amara once again returns to her tea, as Shiyo begins to speak with a smooth and melodious voice. “Just north beyond the borders of fair Kwanlai lies the monstrous nation of Wanshou, a swamp-filled wasteland ruled by a vile elder kraken named Zhanagorr. Twice has he tried to expand his territories into Kwanlai alone!” She stares into her tea and regains her calm. “In the time of Lung Wa, our agents operated out of Shen-Shu, a once-grand structure now buried beneath a muddy swamp in Wanshou. Our records indicate a vault deep within contained the flute of the fallen emperor, Wise Zijao’s seal, and the second Shu coronation crown. The flute is your priority, but retrieve the other two relics if you can.”

The samurai reaches into her kimono and produces a scroll tube and a small purse, which she places on the table. “My agents report a mysterious wizard known only as Lord Rybos has begun excavating the Sunken Valley where Shen-Shu lies, most likely to unearth whatever riches were lost when Zhanagorr’s storms swallowed the region. I am told that Zhanagorr has eyes everywhere, so I suggest you avoid any settlements along your journey and travel through the swamps. I am providing you with maps to help guide you through Wanshou undetected” —the tengu’s clawed hand slides the items forward— “and with coin so you might procure any supplies you need for your travels. I trust you will represent both your Society and the Way of the Kirin in a way that would make our patrons proud."

Amara Li looks up from her tea before adding, “Remember Pathfinders, you are heading deep into unfriendly territory. I suggest you use discretion while making preparations.”

"A pleasure as always, Venture-Captain Li. Can you tell us anything about the capabilities of Zhanagorr or Rybos?"

Amara Li sips delicately from her cup, contemplating the question before nodding to the tengu to answer. "Little is known about this mysterious wizard beyond what I’ve already said. He surfaced about ten years ago and has gained much influence over the Servants of the Deep since then. Lord Rybos controls not only the Sunken Valley, but also much of southeastern Wanshou. He’s focused his attention on excavating the Sunken Valley, but for what reasons I can’t say."

The Venture-Captain set her cup down again. "Likewise, we know little about Zhanagorr. He is clearly not divine, but his followers are able to congure some form of magic. You may be able to find some additional information about both if you purchase gear in town."

Myth bows to Amara Li. ”Tis an honor to serve with you again, Mistress Li. Might I ask what type of creatures we can expect to encounter in this wasteland so we can best be prepared?”

Shiyo ponders for a moment. "I don't know of anything specifically dangerous, but more than 100 miles of sodden terrain lies between our lands and Shen-Shu. The marshes are rife with danger and disease, and the terrain is likely to cause trouble as much as the creatures in it. I certainly don’t envy you, Pathfinder, but I do honor your commitment."

"So, Shen-Shu is buried under a muddy swamp. Parts are probably underwater. We can handle that well enough, but do you know how much is buried under *mud*? 'Cause that might take longer to handle."

Pai will buy a potion of Water Breathing for 750 gp and an antiplague for 50 gp.

"how are we traveling to the land by chance? Or are we to precure our own means?"

This is of course if we are required to travel to get the start of the adventure

will double check purchases after work

"How about language? Are we expected to read or decipher anything in the ruins? What was the language of the builders?"

Shiyo shrugs at Pai's question. "We have no specific details about what might be there. No one has investigated in decades."

Turning to Alani, "We do not have any knowledge of what means you might already have. Please make the decision that works for you. You will likely be traveling for at least a week through the swamps. The maps should help you stay on track."

"As for language, a knowledge of Tian would not be amiss, but I am unaware of any specific languages you might need. Shen-Shu was known as a repository of knowledge and enlightenment. You may need to decipher some texts to determine the location of the objects we require."

"I am fluent in Tian, as well as many other languages." She glances at her hand. "Though not as many as I once was. Translation should not be a difficulty."

Once the meeting is over, Sunny will head into town and look for anything that would help with a trip through the swamp, and see if she can pick up any more information about the area and the Pathfinders' likely opponents.

Diplomacy, Gossip Collector: 1d20 + 43 ⇒ (11) + 43 = 54

Before you leave, Shiyo provides you with a map of Washou that emphasizes elevated areas that serce as improvised trails through the worst of the swampy terrain. She also gives you a beautiful ornate silk pouch before Amara Li dismisses you.

When you get out, you are shocked to discover 75 platinum pieces (750 gold). That should certainly cover any mundane equipment you will need.

Note: this isn't part of your permanent inventory. It's a gift to you for the purposes of this quest only. The Way of the Kirin would like you to be properly equipped.

Sunny floats through the market, barely needing to speak before information about this Lord Rybos just falls into her lap.

If you have Knowledge(geography) trained, you can make me a check for that as well.

Linida asks "Is there anyone I can speak to familiar with the diseases of the area and their treatments?"

k geo: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22

"We'll need to stick to the high points the sediment from the flooding will have collected in the lowlands. Is there an old map from before the flooding we can compare to?"

"I hope you can all swim? This excavated area could easily be submerged or become submerged by the wizard."

Yes, I will share everything from the spoiler.

"I believe that magics to allow us to move while under the water would be helpful. We fight a foe who is native to the seas."

She will purchase a scroll of freedom of movement and a potion of water breathing for 4 PP and a filter scarf for 5 gp. She would like to use 5 pp from the equipment budget for a potion of monkey fish.

Linida tracks down a local herbalist who can give you a run down of the local diseases and their treatments. She also has antiplagues and antitoxins for sale. "Money back, guaranteed, if they don't work!"

Elena will buy the following:

15 Platinium (150gp):
x3 medium tents 45gp
x2 Antiplague 100gp
x10 rations 5gp

Own money:
x2 Scroll touch of the sea 50gp
Air Bubble potion 50gp
Masterwork Flippers for +2 on swim checks without swim speed 50gp
Cork Vest to avoid going under 25gp
flotation Device +1 swim 1gp
x2 Lesser Restoration Scrolls 300 gp
x2 Antitoxin 100gp
x2 Vermin Repellent 10gp
x2 Scroll of air bubble 50gp
Total 636gp

Additionally, she will look for the following magic items.
Armbands of the Brawler 500gp (+1 grapple)
And improve her Cloak of Resistance +1 to +2 3000gp
Magic Tattoo of Belt of Tumbling 1600gp

Pai comes back from shopping loaded down with stuff. Well, her handy haversack is, anyway.

From the scenario's 150 gp:

2x scroll of Touch of the Sea: 50 gp
scroll of Lesser Restoration: 25 gp
masterwork flippers: 50 gp
waterproof bag: 5 gp
rations, 10 days: 5 gp
cooking kit: 3 gp
flotation device: 1 gp
acid flask: 10 gp
caltrops: 1 gp
And that's all 150 gp.

With his cut, Myth’ll buy 2 Air Bubble potions (100 gp) and one Monkey Fish potion (50 gp)…

Sceanrio funds 150GP
Touch of the sea scrolls X2 -50gp
Antiplague x1 -50 gp
Rations x10 -5gp

Personal funds
Dry load weapon quality - 1500gp I will add this when I get home tuesday

Reminder: you have 6 PCs, not 5. 750 gp -> 125 gp per PC, not 150.

Everyone spends some time acquiring assistance with water combat explorations.

Early the next morning, you all head out, following the roads for a while before cutting across country. Shiyo’s maps depict numerous trails through Wanshou’s back country, allowing you to avoid the locals and the deepest quagmires. You find the Sunken Valley without any particular difficulty, yet even with the map, the flooded landscape is quite treacherous.

Everyone needs to make a Survival check to determine how well you hold up to everything the swamps can dish out. You may take a cumulative -2 penalty to allow another character to use your result. You can instead make a Fortitude save, though that can't be shared as a Survival check can. This is a disease effect, for any situational bonuses.

Then

In addition to the potion of monkey fish, Sunny spends her stipend on a potion of air bubble, potion sponges for both, drought powder, a waterproof bag, a flotation device, a masterwork snorkel, and 10 days' rations.

Slightly less "then"

Before departing in the morning, Sunny takes her team into a private room. "There is something I must show you all before we depart."

To the faint sound of heroic, upbeat music with no apparent source, Soni's gown seems to unravel into a shower of white rose petals, trailing into the distance leaving only a silhouette, glowing brightly in a rainbow of colors as her muzzle shortens. The rapier at her hip, which seemed a dandy's weapon before, flies into the air above her as ribbons of silvery-blue cloth circle her limbs and torso, wrapping her now-human form in a short dress, gloves and boots. The raven-haired woman she has become reaches her arm to the sky and grasps her blade, which now appears wickedly sharp. In a flash of light, a golden tiara appears on her brow and a silvery shield with a white rose blossom device appears on her other arm. She slashes the blade through the air in front of her, cutting through the rain of petals and revealing her full vigilante identity as the music crescendos, then stops.

At the same time, Oleksandra is surrounded by a sphere of glowing feathers. Through the gaps, you can see the silhouette change to something more feline than avian. In a flash of light, the feathers disperse, and what appears to be a flying cat with dark fur and violet eyes appears.

In a voice that seems surprisingly melodious, the cat-creature speaks. "I am known as Her Royal Highness Channdryvonne, first of her name, Queen of Somal. There are other guises I may present myself in, though this one is clearly superior."

"My normal profession is as a diplomat," the changed kitsune says, "and that is likely the reason the Society has assigned me to this group. However, I also seek justice in this form, in which I am called the White Rose Duelist. Whichever face I wear at the moment is the true me.

"Because this change is not particularly subtle, I will not be able to switch forms during a fight or in the presence of witnesses. I am not an incompetent fighter when I wear the fox's face, nor am I useless as a diplomat in this form, but I will be most effective if I enter each situation knowing which will be more appropriate."

Now

White Rose usually relies on others to guide her, so she trusts her constitution as she passes through the swamp.

Fortitude: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

Reminder: you have 6 PCs, not 5. 750 gp -> 125 gp per PC, not 150.

Pai comes back from shopping loaded down with stuff. Well, her handy haversack is, anyway.

From the scenario's 150 gp:

2x scroll of Touch of the Sea: 50 gp
scroll of Lesser Restoration: 25 gp
masterwork flippers: 50 gp
waterproof bag: 5 gp
rations, 10 days: 5 gp
cooking kit: 3 gp
flotation device: 1 gp
acid flask: 10 gp
caltrops: 1 gp
And that's all 150 gp.

Pai will pay for the scroll of Lesser Restoration (25 gp) from her own funds and use up her 125 gp portion of the scenario funds.

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

Upon seeing White Rose Duelist's transformation:

Pai's eyes go wide as dinner plates. "Whoa. That's so boopin' cool! How do you do that? And where'd that music come from?"

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

Confident that her inherent hardiness will prevent any diseases, Pai valiantly flies through the swamps. She uses her Air Shroud to keep the bugs off her head, and bemoans her inability to extend that protection over her entire body. "Ugh! My bug bites have bug bites! It's so itchy I wanna scream!"

Fortitude: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (3) + 15 = 18

Myth’ll knock off the monkey fish potion and only spend 100 gp so some else can use the extra 50 gp

Myth steels himself for the journey ahead…

Fort Save: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (16) + 11 = 27

Fort: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (1) + 9 = 10

ouch that is just painful to see, survival and fort are teh same so its nat 1

Elena hopes to get to their destination mostly ok...

Survival: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

Fort Gm Reroll: 1d20 + 9 + 4 ⇒ (15) + 9 + 4 = 28

Pai takes Con damage: 1d4 ⇒ 1 and 1 Cha damage
Alani, Elena, Myth, WRD, and Linida each take 1 Con damage and 1 Cha damage.

Note: you do not take stat modifier penalties until you have taken an even number of points to that stat. In this case, everyone has -1 to Con and Cha. If you take another point of damage, then you will start to apply penalties.

These effects are the result of the week you spent trekking through the swamps and you don't have time to heal it up naturally before you get to the tower.

Lush farmland once filled what is now the Sunken Valley, a swampy expanse of salt-rich mud and stagnant water. A floating settlement of boats, docks, and deep wooden retaining walls surrounds a large excavation at the northern edge of the swamp. Past this bustling area a lone dock leads to the west side of the once-elaborate balcony of Shen-Shu, whose algae-covered walls and moldering rooftop rise only a short distance above the stagnant waters of the mucky swamp. The covered balcony rises two feet above the waterline and connects to the dock via a wooden staircase accessible through an opening in the railing.

See Map. Feel free to move yourselves around in the order. There are two doors you can see, one on each corner.

"Ugh... I feel so icky..."

Elena takes a long look at the area looking for signs of anyone else here who might be waiting for them...

Perception: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14

Myth will draw his bow…and look around the area a bit before proceeding…

Perception: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (13) + 16 = 29

Alani will make sure she is loaded "thats just not good, what the hell" in reference to the Con and Cha

though she will mention to Pai and Myth " if you want I can move forward, and be just south of that door and kinda cover both corners, if you want to cover north?"

Perception: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (12) + 14 = 26

Alani moving to the Blue X on map, while another ranged covers around the white X? it would guard roughly 3 doors, but 2 complete hallways and allow us to move everyone if needed