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[OOC: This thread is intended to serve as an opportunity for role-play when away from the gaming table. Please feel free to participate or observe as you wish and/or as is appropriate for your PC.]
The fiendish figure that emerges upon the speaker's stage is clearly a tiefling. Though his body is nimble and wiry with corded muscle, he is quite ugly, near completely covered in tattoos, and adorned with scars. A moderate number of ioun stones rest embedded within the flesh of his hands, arms, and forehead. Upon taking the stage, he delays but a moment to sweep his gaze over the crowd before speaking.
"Brothers and sisters of The Pathfinder Society, thank you for coming today. I wish to once again give my thanks to Venture-Captain Valsin for allowing me the use of his fine lodge this day. With that, allow me to begin. My name is Venture-Captain Val Morik, and with the Decemvirate's hard won approval for the expedition, I have created a lodge within The Darklands which I have named The Deep Lodge."
"The Deep Lodge lies some three and a half thousand feet below Andoran's surface, on The Darklands level known as Sekamina. It is most easily reached via teleportation magic, but a skilled and determined spelunker could employ mundane means to journey there through Andoran's surface...if they knew where to begin such a journey."
"I have made great effort to forge a relationship with the nearby Svirfneblin of Sekamina, and their Lord General has allowed us to build The Deep Lodge within their territory near one of their hidden cities on that level."
"The purpose of this lodge will be simple to speak, but extremely difficult to carry out. I was born within the lightless depths of this place, and dwelt there for decades before coming to Avistan's surface. It is an incredibly dangerous place fraught with peril and the unknown. We have very little geographical knowledge of The Darklands, and even less knowledge of it's history, magics, and secrets. The Deep Lodge will serve as a local staging ground for expeditions who's purpose is to remedy our lack of intimate knowledge."
"My purpose in speaking to you here today is to rally seasoned Pathfinders who are able and willing to serve in these expeditions. Make no mistake - missions within the confines of the dark are to be considered extremely dangerous, and under no circumstances can we expose novice Pathfinders to such dangers. The Deep Lodge requires skilled arcanists to erect magical defenses for the lodge. Faithful clergy to fortify us against any malign influences that may encroach. Expert trackers and wilderness guides to lead expeditions through the dark without losing their bearing. Adept linguists and diplomats to assist the lodge in keeping it's relationship with the svirfneblin strong and negotiating our presence with other species we may encounter not immediately bent on our demise. Finally, hardy rough and tumble warriors capable of protecting our explorers from the inevitable conflicts they will face."
"At this time I will field what questions I can so that those among you who might be interested in joining The Deep Lodge are capable of making the most informed decision you can."
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"Little else of an amiable disposition, I am afraid."
"The Darklands are composed of three subterranean levels. The uppermost level is called Nar-Voth. It is there I was born, and it is the level of the Darklands I am most familiar with. Nar-Voth is home to numerous species, but the most prominent among them are Dark Folk, Derro, Duergar, Mongrelmen, and Troglodytes. Of those, only the Mongrelmen are generally approachable, and even then that is only if one can find them and speak well enough overcome their distrust. If you happen to encounter Duergar in very small numbers, they can be reasoned with, especially if outnumbered. I have yet to face any greeting other than immediate hostility from the other species."
"The middle realm is known as Sekamina, and it is here that the Deep Lodge resides. The level is composed of seemingly endless caverns and tunnels, with more than a few underground rivers and lakes. The most prominent species of this realm are the Drow, Ghouls, Morlocks, and Svirfneblin. Though once again distrusting of surfacers and highly secretive, the Svirfneblin are typically an amiable race if treated with basic courtesy and care. I know little of this Ghoul society, but the single event I witnessed of them seemed quite atypical. I have known Ghouls to be ravenous to the point of thoughtless hunger, but these Ghouls were different. They gathered in significant numbers in some manner of collaboration, and were disciplined enough in their appetite to actively breed captive humanoids...I witnessed an abduction of a young Svirfneblin, and followed the Ghouls back to their "community". Liberating the Svirfneblin at an opportune moment is the only reason I was ever able to locate them in the first place."
"As for the deepest level, known as Orv, I know nothing save ancient legends and popular rumor. I am, at this time, not even certain how one descends to this realm, or if it even truly exists at all. This is something I hope to correct, not only for myself, but for The Pathfinder Society as well."
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"Difficult - and that is my reason for speaking today. While the Decemvirate has approved my creation and oversight of The Deep Lodge, because of the heightened level of danger inherent in this particular venture, it falls upon me to see it staffed, supported, and otherwise successful."
"The physical structure has been completed. It is a veritable subterranean stone fortress. It must now be stocked, physically and magically fortified, staffed, and manned and guarded. Maintaining the lodge will require a level of vigilance and heightened security many are unaccustomed too participating in when compared our traditionally "safer" lodges in civilized lands."
"When the security and domestic concerns of the lodge have been erected to my satisfaction, we will begin measured and very careful expedition into and detailed mapping of the surrounding territory."
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"Brother Blackwolfe, your mapping techniques would be a most welcomed addition to The Deep Lodge. This endeavor is like to take years, perhaps even decades to complete. Some question if it can be done at all in such hostile environs...but I have faith in my brothers and sisters of the Pathfinder Society. What we give our attention, we accomplish."
"Your hammer would be a most welcome addition to this expedition indeed, Brother Kyros. At this time, awaiting the lodge to be properly staffed and manned is all that keeps us from beginning our expedition. The Deep Lodge roster presently consists of:
- Myself.
- Storn Stonedeep, a Svirfneblin envoy and mason. The Deep Lodge would be little more than clumsy sheets of rock I called into being via wall of stone spells were it not for his ability to re-shape the earth.
- A seneschal to manage the logistics of our domestic affairs, such as the state of our larder, armory, and lodging for guests.
- A scholar to maintain our library and assist us in deciphering and cataloging any important geographical, historical, or arcane discoveries we make."
"As you can see, the primary element missing from this Pathfinder Lodge is Pathfinder agents. A hiccup I hope today will remedy."
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"I have heard tell that the Tapestry can be used for quick travel between a pair or points, one of them at the Grand Lodge, of course. You might want to locate pathfinders with this capability to join your expedition, though I don't know if the Darklands can be part of such travel."
"In the meantime," The dazzling smile flashed by the tattooed woman seems to brighten the room, "If you could be so kind as to provide me a method there, I could study the place, and perhaps visit with a few ... sturdy friends. We could bring supplies for a housewarming party! Though, it would be some time before full casks could be brought in this way."
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"The Deep Lodge would be delighted to receive you, Knight-Captain. Though traditional spelunking could lead one to the lodge, such travel is neither efficient nor realistic for any but the most experienced delvers. Presently I have been ferrying myself and other contacts via dimension door and teleport spells. The Deep Lodge has a special room with...unique decor dedicated specifically to the purpose of aiding in magical transportation. Once a Pathfinder has spent some time within, if they were to stand in the correct area some ways southwest of Almas, they would be capable of reaching the lodge through dimension door spells without chance of mishap. Without stronger teleportation magics, that area must serve as a underground to surface gateway of sorts."
"I had considered the prospect of employing the Tapestry to this end, but the Decemvirate turned down my proposal, citing our present lack of academic knowledge of The Darklands as too great a risk. Though as a magus I am capable of these lesser teleportation feats, I hope to negotiate the services of a conjuration wizard specialized in teleportation magics as an asset for The Deep Lodge in the future."
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"High risk should be the focal point when considering if one wishes to be part of this expedition. As far as rewards...well, even if we overlook the wealth of personal experience and knowledge those who are part of this expedition are like to acquire, and even should we discount the glory of those first to brave and chronicle The Darklands, we still have the plunder of our expeditions to look forward too."
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The rich, throaty chuckle from the sorceress fills the room, and the mirth in her eyes shines as Sheliantha takes in the gnome. "Why, you won't have nearly so many enemies standing to fight once they have seen the glorious colors Pontificor shows them. Just listen to him as he describes what he can do." Her wrist turns as she directs attention back to the deceptively small figure.
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Yeah yeah yeah! I gots strong magics. I am a colorspray master! I make them taste the rainbow! Then they get all twitchy and lay there. I do not like to use that bully magics like magically mistley, or fireball. I like ta put the bad guys in a spot where they do not hurt people. Like the bottom of a pit, or a ball of water. Plus I do not Tall-a-port. That is for you talls. I gnome-a-port. I also make make the besterest fake images. I once had this guy sitting hacking away at my wall of stone for like a minute!
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Sarenith 30th, 4714
With The Deep Lodge finally operational, I have elected to begin keeping record of it's personnel, exploits, and significant discoveries in the form of this journal. I likewise have a feeling that these records will serve as refuge for my own private thoughts as well, if for no other reason than to maintain my sanity. Let's begin with the roster of personnel:
Domestic Staff
Danel Laniss, Seneschal. "Appointed by the Decemvirate, no doubt to keep an eye on me. Still, he's dedicated, hard-working, and abides no nonsense. Glad to see I can trust the lodge's mundane day to day affairs to this human's capable delegation."
Arlanna Meliamne, Archaeological Expert. "Arlanna is something of an enigma to me. She seems genuine enough in her desire to catalog what dwells below, but I know few elves willing to endure subterranean residence to fulfill such a desire. Unfortunately, I think I rub her the wrong way, as she has thus far been unwilling to discuss herself with me in all but the barest of efforts, and even then only to appear polite."
Marlow Hesselwhite, Chef. "Ahhhh, Marlow. . .I have not but praise for this fine young man. The tastes he can dazzle upon one's palate with but the most basic of ingredients is truly a magic foreign to me. He takes pride in his work, as well he should, and is a very friendly sort. I should hope to see more halflings join our venture. They are a fine people."
Storn Stonedeep, Svirfneblin Envoy. "I admire the svirfneblin. They have lived in the dark for countless centuries, surrounded on all sides by hostile races, and not only have they managed to thrive, but they have also not allowed the ugliness of their neighbors to tarnish their own souls. I feel that I can relate to such circumstance quite acutely. Storn is a stoic sort of few words, and I know he feels out of place here away from his people. I fear that he may resent me slightly for his post here, but I do all I can to demonstrate to him my true gratitude for his people's friendship. I hope that our expedition here will prove mutually beneficial to his people."
Pathfinder Agents
Chazz. "My brother in arms. Certainly not the smartest. . .or most magnetic. . .or least annoying. . .or. . .well, you get the idea. But for all of his faults, his good nature, loyalty, and skill at arms more than make up for any short comings. . .ha! Even here I cannot help but employ a light jest at the halfling. Such things aside, it was he who introduced me to The Calamitous Turn's grace, and I will be forever grateful. He must be her favored, for he certainly represents her well in both body and spirit. Even now I can hear him blathering on rapidly about how he found a lever, threw the lever, accidentally released a demon, stabbed the demon to death, lost his left shoe in the scuffle, and is now hungry for second breakfast."
Hrothgar. "Never have I met a stranger druid than this half-orc, but in fairness, I know few druids. He is a haughty, arrogant creature, much like the cats he keeps. He spends all his time in the form of a simple house cat, yet to underestimate his fighting prowess even as such a diminutive creature is to court death. Still, despite our philosophical rivalry and his eccentricities, he is a steadfast and wise companion who can be relied upon to act in the interests of the group. He is also responsible for the precious few magical precautions The Deep Lodge has at present."
Kyros Deun. "Kyros is exactly the sort of Pathfinder this venture needs. The half-elf is level headed, tactical, and perhaps most importantly down here, vigilant. He has told me that he is willing to set out with any expedition, which pleases me, as it demonstrates his dedication to this adventure. Considering that this lodge presently bears only the six of us, it is likely that our first few forays will be together, and his skilled sword arm will be welcome should we encounter trouble. After speaking with Arlanna, he approached me in private to counsel me that he too believes something "off" about her. I sensed perhaps a modicum of. . .distaste when he spoke of her, but I cannot be certain how much or little this may have tainted his perception. Time in both of their company shall reveal more."
Pontificor The Great (yes, The Great). "I am at a loss for words other than to say Pontificor is. . .well. . .quite a character. Though he is incredibly eccentric (perhaps even more so than Hrothgar!), and did genuinely pout until I began calling him The Great again, his lively spirit has been pleasant to be around. After Hrothgar called into question the usefulness of his magic, he scolded the druid for relying too heavily on his "bully magic", and promised to dazzle us with his "color show" at tonight's feast before we set out for our first expedition. Though his mischievous tendencies are evident, the little gnome also seems quite easy to placate, which is a blessing. He and Chazz are already quite taken with one another's natural curiosity and complete and total absence of discretion or fear. I expect they will become fast friends. . .and likewise provide my greatest source of nightmares each night I set myself to rest."
Sheliantha. "Thank. . .Chaldira. . .for Sheliantha. Though I know Chazz and Hrothgar to be as loyal and physically capable as companions can be from our extensive travels together, neither possess even the smallest iota of social tact. At least I can rely upon Kyros and Sheliantha to react with eloquence should they happen upon non-hostile natives. For this human's part, Sheliantha is actually quite capable at negotiation and ingratiating herself. She is also quite striking. . .which proved embarrassing to both Chazz and I when neither of us were caught at our finest moment. I may have. . .gawked slightly. . .but at least I didn't ask her if she was actually a monster in disguise like Chazz. He did thankfully provide context when he relayed to her the many times he's fallen in love in our adventures, only to realize the beauty was some sort of horrible beast beneath the skin. It actually took me providing him with true seeing magic to convince him that she was, in fact, just a beautiful human. Thankfully, for her part, she took our first awkward meeting with grace. I am grateful to have someone with social magnetism counted among our numbers."
Tomorrow morning marks the dawn of a new venture, one that I eagerly await. The ancient secrets, history, and magic of this place will surely serve to empower and enlighten us. . .if we prove we are worthy to survive it's trials. Our ultimate destination is the ruins of Sverenagati, which the Svirfneblin have told me is an ancient buried city of the primeval serpentfolk said to have once held a rich library of ancient texts. Sverenagati apparently resides very far to the northwest, past several Drow cities and outposts. Our journey of one thousand steps will have to begin with the first by following the crude map the Svirfneblin provided me, west past the Endless Gulf, and then north towards our destination.
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"Aye, brother. The Deep Lodge welcomes all Pathfinders who wish to cooperatively share it's venture with their fellows. Please know that I mean no offense when I say that this expedition will not be for the...untested among us. The realities inherent to this endeavor are dangerous, and run deep."
"That said, if you believe yourself up for the challenge, an elf with your talents would certainly make travels in the deep significantly less imperiling if you would be willing to serve as our hundred meter scout. When we know what dangers lay ahead of our trail, even if but a few moments before we encounter them, we will have better opportunity to prepare for them."
"I wouldn't concern yourself overly about that. The chances of a peaceful encounter with them were already a dim prospect at best."
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Telessar smiles at the untested quip. During the siege of the Diamond city, a team of us laid low the generals of the demon army. If the Deep Lodge holds stronger foes, I am in the right place to test my own mortality. Should I find something of interest, my shadow will alert you of it...he doesn't speak, but if he comes back to you danger is afoot. You will note he carries a ghostly Aldori blade...as to separate him from other Shadows.
For combat I generally feel out the opposition with deathwatch. When a foe nears Pharasma's court, I give it a little nudge. Telessar pats his Adamantine Aldori sword.
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"Was the siege not a glorious thing? There is precious little in this world that fills my heart with greater joy than laying low my unruly..."cousins". I am pleased to see I am not alone in this joy. I do recall seeing you in that battle, now that my eyes once again dwell upon your features".
"Truly, I do not know that The Darklands will hold greater foes than those demonic generals proved that night. Yet I would be remiss if I did not drive home the point to all potential prospects that this venture is extremely dangerous. That said, welcome Telessar. You sword and your soft steps will be a much utilized augmentation to our capabilities."
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A blue woman of uncanny, supernatural beauty appears, apparently having been there the whole time, yet undetected. Tall and slender, she is clad in a mist of droplets and sparkling motes of light, her silvery hair gently animated by an unseen breeze, but otherwise unadorned. She is bare of foot, but her feet don't touch the ground; she glides languidly through the air, at walking height, closer to the center of the room.
"Well, I am intrigued.
The prospect of an expedition into the unknown... it's the sort of thing I've been waiting for as I cast about for my own lodge, the location of which I'm as yet undecided on.
As for what I offer? I can create loyal agents and spies of nearly any being, drow, for example, in what I like to call "catch and release". I can bind any manner of outsider for any purpose, whether as scouts, as guardians, or for utility purposes. I can see places where we cannot go, and understand the past history of a place through visions. I can shapechange into nearly any conceivable form... and of course, when needed, I can end life or confer any manner of impairment to the inevitable foes who will take a less charitable view of Pathfinder incursion.
And considering it is a long journey, I am willing to create duplicates of our explorers which can tend to their business and everyday affairs in the Upper World; I've used simulacra of myself to attend dull-but-necessary parties for some time. Very useful.
Of course, I can teleport myself and six others anywhere I have knowledge of, with no possibility of error. As for hastening through the unknown, well, there is shadow walk, but only the most confident or crazy of explorers would use that below."
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Just a gnome? Hardly... even More Icky acknowledges I am "The" Great! You shoulda said A supereliteawesomemagnificientunstoppableextraordinarysplenderfullawesomesup erflous gnome, some adventure cap'ns, some knight and somthing about staff.
Rememeber he said I was easy to placate, and that blesses you guys!
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I earn my negative charisma score from time to time. My sincerest apologies for all the offenses prior and including today. I cooperate best in my more natural environment. In the dim light of Grimoir's blade, blending into the shadows is where I feel right. I can be here...and quiet...and gone. Maybe none too soon for some....Telessar blends into shadows of the the dimly lit, ghostly, Aldori sword,
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"Ooh! Underground! I like going underground. I know it's odd for a gnome, but I like dark, cozy, underground spots. I think that's why my skin is grey and my hair is brown - cause I get along so well with the rocks!
The gnome laughs enthusiastically.
"Can I come visit your underground lodge? I can help! Oh, but where are my manners? I should properly introduce myself."
With that, he turns and yells, "BOY!!!", and a teenage human in fine Taldan clothing comes forward, and announces very formally to the room.
"Presenting Yzarctihstab, Lord Baron of House Garblenarf, famed sorcerer of the Vurduran Forest of Taldor!"
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So Kyros my good "man" is this a private party or can anyone crash in. I've run myself out of funds betting large money on slow ponies. My creditors are due anytime now. He looks idly over his shoulder. Normally I'd go ask ole Glory for a loan but the last job she proposed, left me waiting in line at Pharasma's court. I dare say, it was the first time I felt underdressed for an affair. Luckily, there's was someone who wanted my place in line. I awoke in Riddleport with my favorite High priestess. Righty idly shines a golden yellowjacket on his lapel. Odd she's a tiefling...i definately "owe" her one. A Taldan crown slowly creeps across the Elf's vestments.
Oh yes, the elf bows to the assembly his hat brushes the floor revealing green studded leathers and an abundance of darts, blades, and magical components. The Marquis du Ruum at your service. Impersonator, Brewer, Philosopher, Magus, Arcane trickster, and part time pathfinder. Mostly retired, but when the Lions are low I am ready to go.
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"Cuorecielo and I are ready. I'll just need some time at the destination to study the setting so my own teleports work well." The less enchanting of the sorceresses sweeps back her long, lustrous hair and looks over the assembled group, noting which ones she's read about in the Chronicles. Her gaze seems to linger over the smaller members of the group. "Would anyone like to be able to fly when we teleport? It is a tactic of great use, I have learned. It prevents some very nasty attacks, and also prevents the senses of some fearsome monsters from detecting my companions before we are ready to engage."
She smiles a little and looks to Val. {b]"I don't mean to intimate that the Deep Lodge might be a dangerous place, but I have been ambushed before, and I happen to not like it."[/b]
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Kyros by all means carry torches. But if I may let me illuminate one magically. As I've been jumped in a not so good way before, ill be invisible, shielded, and flying. Ill also make a small stop at Calistria's temple for scrolls and potions. Righty changes form to an Irisen Barbarian. Have a fun meal. Ill return within the hour.
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Yeah, it is gonna be great fun. Kinda like a camping trip. We will get ta roast candies and tell the scarierest stories over a fire. Like that one time I got lockeded in the boringerest room for like SIX hours and thought I would bleach to death. Stupid hell knights....
I can have my porter rat food bring stuffs for us. That lazy coward would not venture to the World Boo-boo with me so i'll make'em come down there for sure.
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I will try the food. Grimoir do prepare yourself. We may die soon. Telessar begins a pair of incantations imbuing his sword and armor with offensive spells. Prior to the port, I will armor, shield, fly, and vanish. I would similarly study this method of transport, so as to have multiple routes in future. Tel then recovers his spent spell with a string of pearls strung as a necklace of prayer beads.
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"I see you lads have been recruiting in my absence! Good on ya! I think we just might have the resources to pull this thing off. Bid farewell to the sky, my friends, for it shall be some months before it sees our return."
"Ah hahaha! I see I am not the only Pathfinder who has been teleported directly to the hostile herald of a dead Goddess before. Well played, my friends."
"Kyros, Pontificor, Sheliantha, Telessar, and Violetta. . .please join my hand. Ven, Yzarctihstab, uh...other elf who's name a I rudely do not yet know, I will return to transport you in just a moment. We are away!
"Heh, I did caution you that the decor of our teleportation room would certainly make return trips much simpler. Be further advised that with the exception of the teleportation room, this entire Lodge has been hallowed by Hrogarth in such a fashion that it denies the use of any form of teleportation magic. This was mostly a strategic decision to keep points of entry to a minimum in the event we should come under assault. Come on then, let's see what Marlow has cooked up for us. I'll walk you through some of the features of The Deep Lodge en route."
"Hrogarth's grove is just ahead. While he is less than thrilled about the traffic, he agreed this was the most tactical place to position him. He's been tending to the fungi garden you see here for weeks. In the event we were to face magical invasion from hostiles, they would have to come from the teleportation room, and would be marching right into the grove of an angry Archdruid. With the plant material and tight corridor here, Hrogarth should be capable of holding back or repelling most foes long enough for us to rally assistance to him."
"This is Hrogarth's grove. If any of you are particularly close to nature, I am sure he would not mind your company in this place. We'll talk more with him when we discuss the expedition, however. Let's carry on."
"If I didn't know any better, I would say that is the smell of dinner time. I don't know how you lot have eaten in other Lodges, but here in The Deep Lodge, Marlow doesn't mess around. You're in for a treat. Let's go see what is on the menu. The rest of the tour can wait until after we have full bellies!"
"I would say this is quite the score! Marlow, you have outdone yourself my friend! Well...what are you lot waiting for? Dig in!"