Illena and Jeanuel, who have been palling around for much of the trip, trail in the rear, remaining silent waiting to hear what Ramona has to say.
As she and the rest of you all collectively step to the bow she speaks quietly, “We have a problem. Something is wrong. Nobody’s in sight. There’s no smoke from cook fires or the smithy. Some of the buildings look burned out.
Sailors can’t keep their mouths shut. Soon all the other colonists are going to hear about this—if they can’t see for themselves already—and things could become… tense.
Based upon your interviews, I believe you lot to be the most qualified to go ashore and check out the settlement. If you wish me to, I can send a few of the soldiers with you as well.
In the meantime, I going to ask Captain Markosi to sail north along the island’s coast to a secondary landing site determined by the expedition’s surveyors as an alternative spot to found a colony. The site was later designated as an emergency extraction point should any danger befall the first wave of colonists.
Perhaps there will be someone there.
After you have had a chance to investigate Talmandor’s Bounty, rendezvous with ship at this secondary location. It is due north along the coast. Once we have better information, I will make a final determination on where the rest of the colonists should disembark.
I know this is asking a great deal... can I count on you all?"
After six long weeks, this morning the crew of the Peregrine sighted land to the west. A few hours later, the Peregrine sails into a natural bay with a sandy beach within rowing distance for the ship’s boats. As the crew begins to untie one of the smaller boats to lower it into the water, the sailors pass a spyglass among themselves and finally hand it back to the captain.
Captain Jacob Markosi peers at the island for a moment before grunting and handing the spyglass to expedition leader Ramona Avandth. “You should see this,” he says quietly.
Ramona accepts the spyglass and peers toward the shore. When she lowers the scope, she is clearly distressed but trying to hide her worry. She approaches and motions toward the far side of the deck, away from where most of the other colonists have congregated. “Can I have a word with all of you?” she asks.
Only a handful picked drop out and those few are replaced by the next morning.
Along with "the group" on the journey are the Captain, First Mate, and the Leader of the Expedition who introduced themselves the prior night, as well as:
The Peregrine's Navigator - Tyra Swain (female human),
The Boatswain - Raerg (male half-orc),
Quartermaster - Bean Counter Brady (female halfling),
The ship also has 16 sailors who work the rigging and keep the ship in tip top shape,
Colonial Soldiers numbering 6 who will serve Ramona Avandth,
Colonists numbering 36 who serve a number of functions required to facilitate the building of a community, above those are a few that stand out as having special skills along with all of your own,
Alba Divenvaar - (female dwarf alchemist),
Anya Sandstrider - (Shoanti female human ranger),
Carver Hastings - (male human archaeologist),
Eamon Caranth - (male half-elf cleric of Erastil),
Harcourt Carrolby - (male human aristocrat),
Kurvis Nurpico - (male human cleric of Abadar),
Luetin Calewick - (male human expert),
Lyra Heatherly - (female half-elf ranger),
Perrell Beys - (female human expert).
Assume that any items you wish to purchase before setting off and you can afford, you are able to find in Almas.
The next afternoon, the Peregrine sets sail to great fanfare with thousands waving the ship off from the docks.... Ahead lays the greatest quest of your, or perhaps anyone's, lives!
Andoran - Almas - the Shining Sea Inn - Everyone - Dinner Party
After settling in, you exit your room to mingle a bit in a large, ornate, wonderfully decorated Hall. No one is the wiser as you interact with one another as if for the first time. Most are not Pathfinders and are excited and nervous to be here.
As dusk arrives, the food begins to arrive. The food served is typical Andoran fare excellent and prepared by what are some of their best chefs as everything is delicious. The room in the Inn is packed to beyond capacity.
Smedrik is nowhere to be seen.
A set of double doors opens and a female human enters the room with a human male and a female half elf.
The hall falls silent as the human female begins to speak, her voice amplified by a bit of magic, "Greetings friends and travelers. I am Ramona Avandth designated by the Bountiful Venture Company to make this, the second journey to the Andoran colony, Talmandor’s Bounty.
I will be the person to contact should you have any questions or concerns. I will also the person who is "in charge" of the expedition. I have no wish to be a tyrant or appear overbearing. But. We journey to a far away strange place. I will need you, all of you, to follow my lead. We need to work together to make this a successful venture. Captain".
The human male steps forward, "I am Captain Jacob Markosi Captain of the Peregrine. On my ship of course I give the orders. Still, I shall defer to Ramona on any matters which do not directly impact the well being of my ship. With me here is first mate Naerath.
As the journey begins I am sure we will all get to know one another. BY tomorrow I will have a full manifest of the crew, soldiers, and passengers that will be making the trip. Enjoy this meal and the soft beds that have been procured for you tonight, when we set sail no such luxuries await. The Peregrine is comfortable enough for a pleasure cruise but this is no such things. We will be at maximum capacity from a standpoint of travelers and supplies as we carry not only what we need, but provisions for the colony already in place".
Ramona steps forward again, "Once again congratulations to you all and I hope you are all looking forward to this as I am.
Once we set sail though, the time for questions and doubts is at an end, we will be off and will not return for months at the earliest. If you need to drop, do so tonight that we may find others still in the city to take your place. If you have any concerns, I shall be here in the main Hall to listen to them for tomorrow will be too late".
Andoran - Almas - Citadel of the Supreme Elect - Interviews
Jeanuel:
Smedrik grins, "You will find no servants on this colony, simply service.
Still, your talents are many an varied. I've seen many one dimensional candidates something you clearly are not.
If you've servants, they are not welcome. However, there are rooms at the Shining Sea Inn, head there and give the Innkeep my name. A room key will be waiting for you with only that information. Congratulations, you are on board! Tonight you'll meet those that you will journey with".
---
Andoran - Almas - the Shining Sea Inn - Everyone
As the sky drags the sun to night, the Shining Sea Inn looms before you. Ahead and behind you see several dozen who are all headed to the Inn, all have bags packed and wistful looks in their eyes.
The Inn itself is a beautiful building decorated in sea and sailing motifs. It's at least four stories high. The activity there is substantial with people coming to and fro.
Several soldiers guard the environs watching all who come and go though they do not say anything to anyone their looks are clearly there to intimidate any who would seek to commit bad acts.
The front door is wide open. As you enter there are two men and two women behind the front desk. They smile when you drop the name of Mr. Smedrik, "Right this way".
You are led to your rooms, reserved for just you of course.
"The Captain will be hosting dinner tonight. Feel free to mingle with other crew members in the meantime".
OK, you'll have some time to find each other and interact. I'll post again when I can.
Andoran - Almas - Citadel of the Supreme Elect - Interviews
Kesari:
The old man grins, "Pulling children together in many ways is more difficult than organizing adults.
We shall see as the Expedition advances if you are called upon to try your hand in it.
Your other qualifications are more than enough to make you worthy of a spot on this trip.
There are rooms at the Shining Sea Inn, head there and give the Innkeep my name. A room key will be waiting for you with only that information. Congratulations, you are on board! Tonight you'll meet those that you will journey with".
Arken:
He nods at all you say, "There are rooms at the Shining Sea Inn, head there and give the Innkeep my name. A room key will be waiting for you with only that information. Congratulations, you are on board! Tonight you'll meet those that you will journey with".
Jora:
He nods at all you say, "Hmm, well, I would prefer it if you had some experience with Leadership but your other qualifications are more than enough to make you worthy of a spot on this trip.
There are rooms at the Shining Sea Inn, head there and give the Innkeep my name. A room key will be waiting for you with only that information. Congratulations, you are on board! Tonight you'll meet those that you will journey with".
Jeanuel:
Smedrik sighs, "While I do not mind normally when someone is thoughtful I do have many of these to get to so..."
Xarann:
He grunts, "Keeping people safe and your sea faring journeys do indeed show your worth.
There are rooms at the Shining Sea Inn, head there and give the Innkeep my name. A room key will be waiting for you with only that information. Congratulations, you are on board! Tonight you'll meet those that you will journey with".
Aleasia:
He nods at all you say, "Hmm, well, I would prefer it if you had some experience with Leadership but your other qualifications are more than enough to make you worthy of a spot on this trip.
There are rooms at the Shining Sea Inn, head there and give the Innkeep my name. A room key will be waiting for you with only that information. Congratulations, you are on board! Tonight you'll meet those that you will journey with".
Illena:
The old man smiles at you, "Don't be nervous, if you don't wish to answer questions, I will ask what I want to know.
Now tell me, what experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates? What skills do you bring to the Expedition that would warrant me choosing you over others? Also, what experiences have you had in organizing expeditions, if any?"
Smedrik nods, "Excellent, why you've already answered most of my questions! Tell me, what experiences have you had in organizing expeditions, if any?"
Arken:
Smedrik nods, "Excellent, why you've already answered most of my questions! Tell me, what experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates? Also, what experiences have you had in organizing expeditions, if any?"
Jora:
Smedrik nods, "Excellent, why you've already answered most of my questions! Tell me, what experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates? Also, has your archaeological experiences required you to organize any expeditions?"
Jeanuel:
Smedrik nods, "Tell me, what experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates? What experiences have you had in organizing expeditions, if any? What skills do you possess that would be an asset to a colony with no readily available resources?"
Xarann:
Smedrik nods, "Excellent, why you've already answered most of my questions! Tell me, what experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates? Also, what experiences have you had in organizing expeditions, if any?"
Aleasia:
Smedrik nods, "Excellent, why you've already answered most of my questions! Tell me, what experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates? Also, what experiences have you had in organizing expeditions, if any?"
You in the case of my last post is addressed to each of you individually. You are alone for these interviews but for the sake of brevity I did not type the same thing over and over again in seven separate spoilers. :-)
Hopefully, the nonsense of the past two weeks stays in my rear view mirror.
The Citadel of the Supreme Elect is a walled complex that houses the offices and residence of the Supreme Elect, who is the chief executive of the democratic nation of Andoran, and who also serves as the mayor of its capital city, Almas. The small keep stands near the western end of the Field of Concord in the Liberty District of Almas. The citadel is topped by a large copper dome, and guarded by a battalion of Steel Falcons. The House of the Demarchy Assembly, which holds the offices of the ministers who advise the Supreme Elect, is also located within its walls, as are buildings that contain the offices of consuls, ministers, and other state officials.
In fact, once you are inside, you realize that the line was not all that long. A page brings each of you to a small administrative building where only a handful of people are seated and waiting. Within 15 more minutes those few people are in and out. Either the Seneschal denied these people quickly or his line of questioning is much abbreviated compared to how the Society vetted its Members.
As you enter the office, a wizened old human hunched over with bad posture waves you forward. His outfit is ostentatious and slightly big for his skinny frame. His eyes though are sharp as an Eagles and his voice strong and clear.
"Greetings, tell me about yourself before the interview begins".
Some of the secret Society Members obtain better responses from the crew and general passersby than others. All though are able to hear where the proper place to go is or can see others and follow along without being obvious about their intentions.
Indeed, all who wish to be considered for placement aboard the next ship bound for the colony will need to apply at the Citadel of the Supreme Elect. There all interviews will be conducted by Smedrik, the Seneschal of Codwin I of Augustana.
Soon enough the group make their way, mostly separately, to the Citadel. The line is out the door!
As you unfurl the scroll you read, You are Elia Sonelle a Varisian scholar of Thassilon. Her knowledge of Azlant was borne out of its Thassilonian roots. She is a worshipper of Desna and a Mystic with unusual powers. Having heard of the first Expedition, Elia knew she could not miss the second. She booked passage on the [i]Emperor’s Blessing hoping she would arrive on time.
The Society Members gather at the docks. Some know of one another, others do not.
Xarann recognizes most from the prior day, his disguise is so powerful, none can penetrate it.
Jeanuel and Illena are able to find a space on the ship to speak privately.
The trip itself is quick and uneventful. The Emperor's Blessing is as fast and well crewed as it is beautiful.
-------
Andoran - Almas - the Docks
Before you can even settle in, you have arrived. An even larger ship is docked at Almas, you assume this is the Peregrine. It is a three-masted sailing ship with a spritsail on the bow. The vessel is 100 feet long and 25 feet across at its widest point. There are three decks and the ship and you imagine it can accommodate a cargo whose volume is substantial.
The ship's two boats itself are 20' long and at least 10' wide. Cargo is still being loaded onto the ship and it is a hustle and bustle of frenzied activity getting ready for the trip.
Soon enough you dock the Citadel of the Supreme Elect is one of the tallest and most readily identifiable buildings in the city. Now that you have all arrived, your destinies await!
Ambrus pauses for a moment, "I suppose you are right. Perhaps you should be on board the ship bound from port later on this day. With your cover your foe will be unlikely to recognize you.
As far as being a skilled sailor goes, Master Shaine has a solution for that".
Shaine hands you a ring, "It is magical. It will aid you in seafaring giving you enough skill to pass as a sailor. Worry not. Aenon is a Monk, it is his ability to fight that will be as important as his sailing experience to being chosen.
You are not to know the others. I've no doubt that you will uncover the identity of the others as the journey unfolds. Look for Wayfinders and those who seem anxious to explore outside of the settlement".
Aleasia, Arken Wazyr, Jora Penn, and Kesari of Bandarom
The Venture Captain turns to Kesari, "Ah no. There is so much we do not know, it's hard to know what to look for. Good luck and may the Gods watch over you".
---
Absolom - the Docks
As you all arrive at the docks you see that the ship Emperor's Blessing is a three-masted junk in the Tian Style. It measures at least 70' from bow to stern and is at least 25' abeam and appears to be constructed of the finest of Tian Teak. The sails themselves are decorated with images of a jade phoenix.
While a merchant vessel, it has some significant armaments, enough to show that it's no ordinary merchant vessel.
The crew must be at lest 25 and between cargo and it's over 30 passengers quite full and ready for the journey. The Captain barks down at those still not on board, "Head on up lubbers! I've got more to do than just haul cargo and passengers despite the lucrative nature of this contract!"
As you look around you see several people milling about, you wonder who if any, are the other Pathfinders...
Waiting for a few PCs to chime in before we move forward.
I want to make sure that our 4 man/woman team has had all questions asked and answered. Thereafter, I'll describe the journey to Almas and get the full group there in one post.
We'll spend a bit of time in Almas.
After that, fast forward through the trip to the Colony where the ACTUAL adventure begins :-)
Jeanuel sleeps on, well not literally, the gold. He decides that he will spend what he must to "keep up appearances" and takes to the city feeling quite uncomfortable. As the appointed time looms ever closer he heads to the docks and sees that the ship is quite magnificent.
Despite the short stature of the one he was told to look out for he spots her easily enough. Trying not to look conspicuous but doing just that to his well trained eye.
---
Illena knows where to go but not who to look for. Well, perhaps a meandering a for a bit will work...
Aleasia, Arken Wazyr, Jora Penn, and Kesari of Bandarom
The Venture Captain addresses Aleasia's questions, "You will have each other if you need help. Certainly, making friends among the colonists would also be wise you must though, keep your true identities secret.
As far as the journals go, we would prefer if you could bring them back with you but so long as you are back alive, we can work with you to recreate any journals as best we can. Shaine can aid in that.
Have you any further questions before you head to the next destination?"
CORRECTION!!!Utilize THIS identity instead, my apologies.
Elderbrant Heirbrine was born the third of three sons of the exceedingly wealthy head of the Heirbrine Silver Estate in Cheliax. As a child of the owner of the largest silver producing estate in all Golarion, one can imagine, Elderbrant never wanted for anything in his life and, as the youngest of three sons, nothing was ever expected of him in return. It took him many years of life spent frivolously spending his family's money, attending every royal ball and gala, shmoozing his way along with nobility, getting drunk, and reading every book in his father's vast study before Elderbrant resolved he was going to do something about this! He would do something to catch his father's eye! To prove to him that he had worth! But, what? The noble art of music!? Of course! His journey as a leading Singer of Cheliax has scarcely begun when he heard word of the trip bound out of Almas, that was it, how he would prove his worth, and so he has come to do just that.
In addition to the scrolls, Marcos hands you a sack with 100 Platinum to shop for better clothing before you leave for Almas the next day so you "look the part".
That night you are visited by the Master of Swords Marcos Farabellus in your lodgings. "The favor called in puts you on that boat son. But know that even without it, your answers were among some of the best and we'd have chosen you anyway.
However, most we did choose, will be going without cover identity. Your family name is simply too famous to be overlooked. Therefore, we will be sending you in with cover.
Tomorrow you will see a woman, one you may have seen yesterday, with pointed ears and spectacles. A cross between a halfling and an aasimar, quite literally. You will be providing her with her cover story as we do not wish to announce her name in public due to who she shares affiliations with. Let us just say that several Society Members will be upset at her selection.
Her credentials are as impeccable as yours. We place her with you for two reasons. First, you are one we can trust will not react poorly to her selection as you too have been selected and second, while you have had a great deal of experience in life, we believe you need a Society mentor for the initial leg of the trip".
Marcos hands you two scrolls, one pink dyed parchment and one blue dyed parchment.
"Study the blue tonight. The pink hand to Dr. Merriweather tomorrow when you see her. Do not return to the Grand Lodge. Mill about by the ship named Emperor's Blessing. Writs of passage for both of you are rolled up within the scrolls.
Congratulations and good luck".
As you open the scroll, you read a blurb about who you will be pretending to be:
Aenon Malas – Also a Varisian but a traveling Monk. Aenon spent years following the flow of destiny, changing ships and crews to let him travel even further away from his birthplace. This led him aboard the Emperors blessing, the ship of the renown Tian treasure-hunter Manami Doi and under her guidance he explored the seas from Minkai to the Cape of omens. Over the years, she taught Aenon everything she knew, from the tian language, to navigating the seas and even the ways of the eastern mystics, and in her service Aenon became both a fierce warrior and talented sailor. When he attempted to return home, on what he decided would be his final voyage, fate intervened once more as he met a local about to board for a once in a lifetime Expedition, instead of getting off, he stayed on and here he is...
You were not selected... Dejected you ready yourself to continue as you always but you feel a bit foolish now for not having walked out when you had the chance.
As you near the back of the room you hear a voice whisper as if right in your ear! It's Master Zey, [b]"We've need of you Professor Merriweather. Tell none but gather your things and be at the docks within forty minutes. All will be revealed to you by an agent there..."
The "cover identities" are comprised of a combination of successful submissions to other Ruins PBP's here on the boards, submissions which were not accepted, and a few I just made up. If I could remember where I got them all from I'd give credit but my time is limited so I figured I would just mention it. :-)
That night you return to your room and much later Ambrus enters with the Master of Scrolls.
He nods to you, "Prepare yourself. As I stated, you were chosen. Keep your hat on, quite literally as long as you can.
Master Shaine is going to teleport you to Almas tonight. That will slow down any pursuit by unsavory agents. In a few days interviews in Almas will take place at the Citadel of the Supreme Elect.
You will be a man named Aenon Malas, a Varisian traveling Monk. Aenon spent years following the flow of destiny, changing ships and crews to let him travel even further away from his birthplace. This led him aboard the Emperors blessing, the ship of the renown Tian treasure-hunter Manami Doi and under her guidance he explored the seas from Minkai to the Cape of omens. Over the years, she taught Aenon everything she knew, from the tian language, to navigating the seas and even the ways of the eastern mystics, and in her service Aenon became both a fierce warrior and talented sailor. When he attempted to return home, on what he decided would be his final voyage, fate intervened once more as he met a local about to board for a once in a lifetime Expedition, instead of getting off, he stayed on traveling to Almas and here you are... Do not forget to give your illusory cover the appropriate tattoos.
This man does indeed exist. In exchange for membership in the Society and a place in the Chapter House of the Mwangi expanse, he has allowed us to utilize his identity to sneak one of our Members on board. That Member is you.
Have you any other questions for me before you go?"
Aleasia, Arken Wazyr, Jora Penn, and Kesari of Bandarom
Marcos nods, ”Indeed Ms. Penn, quite perceptive. However, we needed to get everyone here so they did not go to Almas! Those well-known would have blown our cover. Those ill spoken, would have done the same. Plus, we had to at least make it seem that there was a selection process. If not, what would have happened hey? Society Members leaving the Society in droves or trying desperately to get on board that ship because they’d feel cheated out of an opportunity to accomplish whatever dream or desire they had. Whether noble or selfish”.
The Venture Captain frowns a bit but proceeds with his statement, "You have all been selected not because of your skill but because of your obscurity. Your responses to our questions were full of jitters.
Our initial strategy was to provide you all with cover stories which you would utilize to get on board the ship. However, based upon your nerves at the questioning we have instead opted to send you as yourselves. Adventure seekers looking for glory or a new beginning of course you would be nervous.
Answer their questions the same way you answered ours and we have no doubt your enthusiasm will shine through. Jora and Arken, focus on your specialized knowledges that will benefit the Expedition. Kesari and Aleasia focus on your natural fit into the environment of the island.
In about an hour, a ship will set sail for Almas and you four will be on it. Also on it will be three more. Those three will reveal themselves to you once the Peregrine sets sail. Before that they shall remain aloof from the four of you.
It would not do for everyone coming from a port of call of Absolom to know one another and be interested in this Expedition.
Remember, under no circumstances are you to reveal your affiliations with the Society. Is this all understood?"
The Venture Captain nods. "I'm afraid I can't make it quite that easy.
Later today, we are holding interviews. I'll need you to go through that process. Provided that your responses are not offensive to the Masters, I see no reason why I cannot push for you to be chosen. Agreed?"
Assuming You Agree:
You enter a massive banquet hall lined with Society Members, the crowd you encountered when arriving today.
Your name is called and you enter a meeting room and find arrayed before you at the table the Leadership of the Society here at the Grand Lodge. Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin, Master of Scrolls Kreighton Shaine, Master of Spells Aram Zey, and Master of Swords Marcos Farabellus.
Ambrus motions to the lone empty seat across the table, "Please be seated. As you may be aware, the Society has been forbidden from sending any of its members upon this Expedition. The Decemvirate finds this position untenable and has created a series of false identities for our agents to infiltrate the next ship that will leave Andoran.
However, for those agents to be successful in their infiltration, they will need to be able to handle the interview process that will be final test being utilized by the Andorans in determining who has the appropriate skill set to be sent along to establish a new colony. Thus, we have created our own set of questions that will hopefully enable our members to "practice" for the actual interview and also allow us to ascertain who the most qualified candidates truly are".
Shaine speaks, "There will be several questions. We expect honest answers in this room. Remember though, it is vital that when delivering such answers during the true interview that your affiliations are not revealed else you will not be selected for the Expedition".
The four ask a series of rapid fire questions:
1. What kind of experience do you have studying objects and structures recovered by excavation to identify, date, and authenticate them and to interpret their significance?
2. What skills do you possess that would be an asset to a colony with no readily available resources?
3. Provide an example of a time when you successfully organized a diverse group of people to accomplish a task.
4. What experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates?
5. Share an experience you had in dealing with a difficult person and how you handled the situation.
6. Tell us how you organize, plan, and prioritize your work.
7. Name a time when you identified strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems. What was the impact that your insights had?
8. In your experience, what is the key to developing a good team?
9. How are you affiliated with the Pathfinder Society?
10. As you will NOT be able to answer the previous question truthfully in the interview at Almas, explain how and why you are qualified to be accepted on this Expedition for reasons that have nothing to do with your Society Affiliation.
11. Provide a time when you were able to identify a complex problem, evaluate the options, and implement a solution.
12. Finally, why do YOU want to be a part of this Expedition?
As you respond to the questions in turn, the Masters do not ask any follow ups though you can see some of them do indeed have them.
Aram closes the interview, "You have done well. This was a difficult task even for our more senior operatives. Gather here tomorrow morning at the same time as today and the final selections will be announced".
As each of you finish your interviews it is hard to ascertain just how well you did as Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin simply states, "Thank you for your time. That will be all". His tone and the looks on the faces of the assembled Masters makes it clear they won;t be answering any questions today.
A sleepless night turns into an early, tired morning for most of you who are unsure whether or not you will be selected. The crowd is just as large for the selections as it was the prior day. Many veterans are all but being congratulated for their selection to represent the Society, albeit incognito, one one of the most important Expeditions to take place in the history of the Society!
Master of Scrolls Kreighton Shaine exits Skyreach and a hush falls over the assembled adventurers. He opens a scroll and begins reading with no fanfare, "Will the following Society members please proceed to the interview room within Skyreach where we tried your patience just yesterday...
Aleasia,
Arken Wazyr,
Jora Penn, and
Kesari of Bandarom.
There are still a handful more we may select. However, unforseen circumstances may cut the number of Society Members that we can reliably sneak into this trip.
Venture Captain Valsin thanks you for your interest and assure you that your next set of assignments shall be favorable".
The crowd murmurs as several unknowns are selected and no veterans of any kind it seems will be selected. Shaine turns on his heel not addressing any who approach him and heads back into Skyreach.
Many of your fellow Society Members clasp you on the back and offer well wishes but others you can see are jealous. None of that of course concerns any of you as you will soon be far away from anyone who would wish to escalate the matter above a cross eyed look.
You all once again find yourselves in the same room as yesterday before the same Leaders of the Society. This time though with you are a handful of others, some of whom you at least mingled with in passing the prior day.
Venture Captain Valsin speaks once everyone is settled, "Congratulations, You have all been selected for this very important endeavor, before we begin to brief you, do you have any questions for us?"
Valsin chuckles, "Yes a menial task indeed. We are currently undertaking to send a few members of the Society onto a ship bound for the Ruins of Azlant surreptitiously. Your sister has asked me as a persona favor to select you for this task. Tell me, is that a task you believe worthy of your talents or is it too menial?"
Sorry, couldn't get it today. I'm preparing for a trip to go visit my brother in Atlanta and it took longer than I expected. I have a long drive tomorrow, so I'll think on the questions while I'm in the car and I'll post when I get to the hotel.
OK.
I ran out of time last night, I am going to try to get to this tonight though just an FYI.
It was only after I gave up on actually answering the questions, that I was able to put a post together. Needless to say, I would have absolutely no chance in such an interview IRL:(
Think of the RL skill that playing a game just taught you! ;-)
Looks like 3 more interview to be completed here. I will give it till Sunday for those who have yet to post (I did not exactly make it easy!) and (hopefully) move the entire thread forward that night.
Interviews are up, these are not easy questions and I think will be fun to answer. They will enable each of you to really flesh out the background of your PC. Obviously, each of you will be selected but I felt the opportunity to RP was worth starting where I did in the process.
After you place your name in for contention, several minutes later a human female comes out to greet you. "Jeanuel Azmeren yes? Come with me, the Venture Captain will see you now".
You head into the massive citadel that is Skyreach and are led to what appears to be the top floor, or at least you are pretty high up. The woman opens a door and seated in a small library is a human male who you believe is the Venture Captain Ambrus Valsin. The man stands the letter you provided to the Master of Scrolls in his hand.
"Come in, sit down Mr. Azmeren. This letter you have provided to me is interesting and fortuitous at the same time. Yes, I do believe you arrived at the exact right time. Tell me, how is your sister?"
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Absolom - the Grand Lodge Xarann, Kesari, Aleasia, Arken, Jora, and Illena
One by one the Pathfinders are called in to complete the Interviews. As the Interviews are granted, those Pathfinders who have completed theirs drift away. Either into the Lodge proper or back out into the city to await word of selections.
The Test:
As your name is called, you enter a meeting room and find arrayed before you at the table the Leadership of the Society here at the Grand Lodge. Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin, Master of Scrolls Kreighton Shaine, Master of Spells Aram Zey, and Master of Swords Marcos Farabellus.
Ambrus motions to the lone empty seat across the table, "Please be seated. As you may be aware, the Society has been forbidden from sending any of its members upon this Expedition. The Decemvirate finds this position untenable and has created a series of false identities for our agents to infiltrate the next ship that will leave Andoran.
However, for those agents to be successful in their infiltration, they will need to be able to handle the interview process that will be final test being utilized by the Andorans in determining who has the appropriate skill set to be sent along to establish a new colony. Thus, we have created our own set of questions that will hopefully enable our members to "practice" for the actual interview and also allow us to ascertain who the most qualified candidates truly are".
Shaine speaks, "There will be several questions. We expect honest answers in this room. Remember though, it is vital that when delivering such answers during the true interview that your affiliations are not revealed else you will not be selected for the Expedition".
The four ask a series of rapid fire questions:
1. What kind of experience do you have studying objects and structures recovered by excavation to identify, date, and authenticate them and to interpret their significance?
2. What skills do you possess that would be an asset to a colony with no readily available resources?
3. Provide an example of a time when you successfully organized a diverse group of people to accomplish a task.
4. What experiences have you had surviving in tropical climates?
5. Share an experience you had in dealing with a difficult person and how you handled the situation.
6. Tell us how you organize, plan, and prioritize your work.
7. Name a time when you identified strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions to problems. What was the impact that your insights had?
8. In your experience, what is the key to developing a good team?
9. How are you affiliated with the Pathfinder Society?
10. As you will NOT be able to answer the previous question truthfully in the interview at Almas, explain how and why you are qualified to be accepted on this Expedition for reasons that have nothing to do with your Society Affiliation.
11. Provide a time when you were able to identify a complex problem, evaluate the options, and implement a solution.
12. Finally, why do YOU want to be a part of this Expedition?
As you respond to the questions in turn, the Masters do not ask any follow ups though you can see some of them do indeed have them.
Aram closes the interview, "You have done well. This was a difficult task even for our more senior operatives. Gather here tomorrow morning at the same time as today and the final selections will be announced".
No one, not a single Member leaves that interview room feeling comfortable.
Free form RP, clearly not a problem for this group, can continue as you see fit post interview. Once all "candidates" have completed the Interview process, I will move forward to the next day.
This will be the first among the game that I update tomorrow. My Status thread, assuming you have been following it, has noted my health issues this past week but I believe by tomorrow I should be tip top once more.
One by one as you all approach, you quickly discover that everyone here is trying to get selected by the Society to get onto that Expedition, the catch, there's only seven slots...
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Prologue Illena Merriweather:
Shaine turns an eye towards you and grins, "So would everyone else here my dear. Not to worry, the Decemvirate assures me that the covers they have created will most certainly be accepted onto the Ship. First of course, you must convince me that you are one of the Pathfinders that deserves to be on board.
Interviews will begin at noon promptly, feel free to mingle and take in food and drink in the meantime. Head into Skyreach for it. Next!"
Prologue Jora Penn:
As you scribble your name on the roll you hear a whisper in your ear, "Ms. Pontious. I wish you good luck..." You could swear it came from Shaine but his lips didn't move, did they?
He smiles at you warmly, "Please move along Ms. P, there is a long line behind you yet..."
Prologue Jeanuel Azmeren:
The man holds out his hand, "Finally someone here on some business besides this Expedition. I fear that the Venture Captain is indisposed at the moment. I am Master of Scrolls Kreighton Shaine. If your letter is from Koriah, I'd like to see it". Though he is a willowy elf he speaks with an air of authority.
Prologue Arken Wazyr:
Shaine looks to you and smiles, "You there, if you want to sign up, I'll need your name!"
Prologue Aleasia:
Shaine turns to you as the crowd brings you ever closer to the podium, "I know you intend to sign up. Shall I write down your name on my list or am I presuming too much Aleasia?"
Prologue Kesari of Bandarom:
Shaine turns to you as the crowd brings you ever closer to the podium, "I know you intend to sign up. Shall I write down your name on my list or am I presuming too much Kesari?"
Besides Jora and Aleasia who you know, you see a few familiar faces applying; Arnistolientar Popswicker the famous Delver is here, Akmanya the Savant of Desna has also signed up, Torga Stigardsdam the dwarven ranger student of war looks formidable as well, on a surprise bid Aram bin Kaleel is also here would the inquisitor of Sarenrae really shut his own shop to go? These four are certainly guaranteed spots, aren't they?
Prologue Xarann Imbros:
Drendle Dreng smiles, "Relax. The interviews will be over tonight. The next day the ship bound for Almas will leave and you'll be on it. In disguise. Each Member selected will have a cover identity which through the Interview process in Andoran should ensure that you are selected to be included on the next ship". He does not even address the Ilnerik issue.
"It may make sense for you to at least mingle with the others below in your disguise, unless you'd rather stay here with me".
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Once sign ups are complete Kreighton Shaine makes an announcement, "If I did not mention it, there will be separate interviews. Not only for us to verify membership, though I am sure you are all on the rolls. Your performance on this interview will give us an indication of how well you do on the next, the one you'll need to pass to get on board the Peregrine. There is food and drink at the Great Hall in Skyreach, we will begin promptly at noon, in alphabetical order".
As the initial sign ups are completed, the mass of potential crewmen (and crew-women) head towards Skyreach.
Feel free to interact now with each other or NPC's after your initial responses to the Master of Scrolls.
You stand next to Drendle Dreng in Skyreach, the enormous, white, five-towered palace that stretches high above the others structures and the surrounding city and is the largest by far within the complex that makes up the Grand Lodge, watching through a stained glass window depicting Old Man Jatambe's accomplishments in the Mwangi Expanse.
"This is what I spent the last two decades waiting, no hoping for. The chance to reach Azlant with actual support and the Godsdamned Andorans have cut us out!
Not to worry my boy, the Decemvirate have a plan to put Society Members on the next ship, Peregrine. That is what all the activity down below is about. Once more not to worry, though they are taking applications to select only a handful of Society Members to infiltrate this next journey, the Decemvirate already selected you to go. Still, you'll need something to aid you. You do stand up enough to cause a panic in the best of circumstances.
Here, take my hat. Keep away from real fights till you hit shore and begin to explore. By then, you'll prove your worth as you've proved it to us and they'll not ostracize you just by virtue of what you are.
Only the Decemvirate and I know of this plan to get you away from your former Master. I fear there is no much more to say beyond that..."
First treasure goes to Xarann you obtain a Hat of Disguise! I was thinking of cheesy 80's RPG quest success music as I typed this FYI...
This was it, the chance she'd been waiting for since joining the Society. Though you'd failed to gain entrance to the prestigious Monastery of Unfolding Wind, this is a task you will not fail.
Though Kreighton Shaine, Master of Scrolls, informed Kesari that the Andoran's were banning all Pathfinder Society members from the trip, the Decemvirate was going to get its agents on board no matter what. Your sentiments exactly, you are getting on this Expedition, no matter what.
As you head down from the inner grounds of the Lodge to the outer grounds, you see there are several dozen agents already here! It's no surprise to you, this trip is once in several lifetimes and many want to get on board. To do so of course, you'll need to sign up at the makeshift podium Kreighton has set up in the Courtyard just inside the inner side door to the Lodge from the Foreign Quarter.
No doubt Dreng put the good word in for you, ever since you have taken to drinking with him at the Wounded Wisp, well he drinks and you watch at any rate, it is clear that he has taken a liking to you and has supported your career since your arrival here from the Monastery of the White Crane.
Kesari, Jora & Aleasia, note that you are both residents of the Grand Lodge and will know of one another though you may never have been formally introduced to one another. Make Knowledge Local rolls DC of 15 to know something about one another.
This was it, the chance she'd been waiting for since joining the Society. Trained by one of their best, Aleasia knew she would excel in all she did. They knew it too, there was no doubt in her mind she'd be on that boat.
Though Kreighton Shaine, Master of Scrolls, informed her that the Andoran's were banning all Pathfinder Society members from the trip, the Decemvirate was going to get its agents on board no matter what. Your sentiments exactly, you are getting on this Expedition, no matter what.
As you head down from the inner grounds of the Lodge to the outer grounds, you see there are several dozen agents already here! It's no surprise to you, this trip is once in several lifetimes and many want to get on board. To do so of course, you'll need to sign up at the makeshift podium Kreighton has set up in the Courtyard just inside the inner side door to the Lodge from the Foreign Quarter.
Venture-Captain Eliza Petulengro, assured you back in the Woodsedge Lodge in southern Galt that the directions she gave you to the Foreign Quarter and the Captain of the ship she recommended would lead to a fortuitous trip. She was not wrong.
Looming before you is the the Grand Lodge of Absolom. A massive fortress, easily one of the biggest privately owned strongholds in the city. Established 400 years ago, it contains extensive grounds surrounded by a tall stone wall with a single, huge main gate (which is very rarely closed, and is decorated with the Gylph of the Open Road), many yards and outbuildings, and a series of Major Halls. It sits in front of one of the larger plazas in the Foreign District, ringed with shops that cater to adventurers of all stripes. The wall encircles seven sturdy stone fortresses of different architectural periods, the largest of which—Skyreach—is an enormous, white, five-towered palace that stretches high above the others structures and the surrounding city.
You enter the side gate as you were instructed to do by Venture Captain Petulengro. As you enter there are several dozen agents already here! Kreighton Shaine, Master of Scrolls, is standing at a makeshift podium in the Courtyard and appears to be meeting with those assembled and jotting down notes. Though you've not met him in person before, he was described to you with stunning accuracy by Petulengro. As you look around you do not see a soul you recognize here.
Still, you believe your accomplishments, limited as they may be, will prevail to earn you a spot on the trip to Azlant! All you need to do, is get your name on those rolls.
Finally one night Jeanuel found not a note but a lockbox. He opened it and inside was her wayfinder with a simple note. "Make me proud".
Alongside the note was a letter from Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin himself requesting her presence in Absolom. Then another letter with the instructions, "Jeanuel, hand this to Ambrus when you see him at the Grand Lodge".
The last thing inside the box was enough coin to reach Absolom and perhaps have a few decent meals and beds along the way.
Your pulse begins to pound as you arrive at Absolom. The Pathfinder Society is easy enough to ferret out here.
Soon enough you approach the Grand Lodge a massive fortress, easily one of the biggest privately owned strongholds in the city. Established 400 years ago, it contains extensive grounds surrounded by a tall stone wall with a single, huge main gate (which is very rarely closed, and is decorated with the Gylph of the Open Road), many yards and outbuildings, and a series of Major Halls. It sits in front of one of the larger plazas in the Foreign District, ringed with shops that cater to adventurers of all stripes. The wall encircles seven sturdy stone fortresses of different architectural periods, the largest of which—Skyreach—is an enormous, white, five-towered palace that stretches high above the others structures and the surrounding city.
You enter the side gate as you were instructed to do by one of the locals. As you enter there are several dozen agents already here! An elf is standing at a makeshift podium in the Courtyard and appears to be meeting with those assembled and jotting down notes. As you look around you do not see a soul you recognize here.
You wonder if the man at the podium could possibly be Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin".
This was it, the chance she'd been waiting for since joining the Society.
All those side long looks from others once they learned her full name, Jora bore them with dignity. Now, if everything worked out, she'd not have to any longer.
Though Kreighton Shaine, Master of Scrolls, informed her that the Andoran's were banning all Pathfinder Society members from the trip, the Decemvirate was going to get its agents on board no matter what. Your sentiments exactly, you are getting on this Expedition, no matter what.
As you head down from the inner grounds of the Lodge to the outer grounds, you see there are several dozen agents already here! It's no surprise to you, this trip is once in several lifetimes and many want to get on board. To do so of course, you'll need to sign up at the makeshift podium Kreighton has set up in the Courtyard just inside the inner side door to the Lodge from the Foreign Quarter.
Illena's pulse begins to pound as she arrives at Absolom, to a little person like her the city seems so big but she knows that with Ailson's mentoring, she has a personality big enough to tackle it.
Good thing, that trip to Almas in Andoran was a disaster. Just mentioning interest in the Pathfinder Society even though you are not a member, formality, got you kicked out of the running straight away. You watched the Liberty’s Herald sail out from the docks!
A trip to the Almas Pathfinder Lodge and Ailson's name drop got you the information you needed from Venture Captain Brackett. He suggested that you visit Absolom if you wished to be on the next ship set to sail, the Peregrine.
The Grand Lodge is a massive fortress, easily one of the biggest privately owned strongholds in the city. Established 400 years ago, it contains extensive grounds surrounded by a tall stone wall with a single, huge main gate (which is very rarely closed, and is decorated with the Gylph of the Open Road), many yards and outbuildings, and a series of Major Halls. It sits in front of one of the larger plazas in the Foreign District, ringed with shops that cater to adventurers of all stripes. The wall encircles seven sturdy stone fortresses of different architectural periods, the largest of which—Skyreach—is an enormous, white, five-towered palace that stretches high above the others structures and the surrounding city.
You enter the side gate as you were instructed to do by Venture Captain Brackett. As you enter there are several dozen agents already here! Kreighton Shaine, Master of Scrolls, is standing at a makeshift podium in the Courtyard and appears to be meeting with those assembled and jotting down notes. Though you've not met him in person before, he was described to you with stunning accuracy by Brackett. As you look around you do not see a soul you recognize here.
Little is known of the history of the first human civilization, other than the sad story of its destruction. Myths tell of an ancient war between the Azlanti and a race known as the serpentfolk. The Azlanti are said to have driven their enemies off the face of Golarion and into the Darklands. In the war's final battle, Savith, an Azlanti hero beheaded the serpent god Ydersius in the Darklands realm of Sekamina. It is also rumored that exiles of Azlant founded the empire of Thassilon. Whatever the truth of that Myth, recent rumors of the discovery of a "Lost Island" in the Arcadian Ocean fuel rumors that Azlant has been re-discovered...
