At the request of hosts Canayven and Sheila Heidmarch, you have been invited to attend a private meeting at Heidmarch Manor. A large number of your fellow Pathfinders have clearly also been given a similar invitation, however the appearance of Sheila Heidmarch suggests all is about to be made clear.
She calls for your attention, and as the noise dies down she begins to speak.
”Dear friends, welcome to Magnimar and the newest Pathfinder Lodge—Heidmarch Manor. For those of you who do not yet know me, my name is Sheila Heidmarch—venture-captain of Magnimar. This lodge is also my home, which I share with my husband Canayven. While we are far from the comforts of the Grand Lodge at Absalom, we shall do our best to accommodate you with our humble Varisian hospitalities. My husband and I both spent many years in the field, so we know well what you do and appreciate that you have answered our summons. We are both extremely grateful to receive you and your support.”
“As you well know, Heidmarch Manor is a new lodge. Presently it is funded almost entirely from my own resources. Although I adore Magnimar, we have as many enemies here as friends. This being the case, I seek to court the favor of more powerful allies, specifically members of the Council of Ushers and the Office of the Lord Mayor.”
“This brings the conversation to our current situation. On one of their more recent salvage runs, the wondrous artificers of the Golemworks uncovered a strange relic while dredging stone from the bottom of Magnimar’s harbor. The relic appears to be some sort of a giant key, etched with ancient Thassilonian runes that their learned arcanists speculate may even predate the coming of the mysterious runelords. Because the key falls outside their area of expertise, the Golemworks donated the curious aritfact to the Office of the Lord Mayor. In turn, the Lord Mayor intends to auction off the key to the highest bidder in short order, to fund municipal projects. The auction will be run by the Cathedral of Abadar, gold in hand—meaning immediately after the final bid is accepted, the bidder must pay for his prize in full.”
“We want the key. However, we want it legally. Our establishment in Magnimar is relatively new and our footing tenuous. We need to secure more stable political relationships with the Lord Mayor’s office and the Council of Ushers to ensure the Society’s long term success in this city; especially since the Aspis Consortium already has such a strong foothold here. The legitimate purchase of the Runecarved Key from the local authorities would demonstrate our respect for the city’s government, which would go a long way toward improving our public image with these people.”
“That said, we can greatly increase our chances of winning the auction by persuading our competition to back out. While there are some we believe we can outbid, we are a new lodge with far fewer funds than many. Thus, we must find out who else is interested in the key, how much they can bid, and whether or not we can knock them out of the auction.”
“To assure our success, our espionage must be extensive. Therefore we have divided the task between our agents. While division stands to place field operatives in greater danger, we cannot risk revealing ourselves by working en mass. If you are discovered, we will disavow any association with you. We cannot aid you if you get arrested or fall into the clutches of the enemies of our Society. While this is unfortunate, I hope you can understand our position.”
”For now, please make yourselves at home. We have provided accommodations for each of your groups. Feel free to drop off your things and prepare yourselves. Then meet me in the manor’s theatre in five minutes.”
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A new artifact? Marsius rasps softly to himself as his neck extends out to catch all of the Venture Captains' speech. Wonderful. Though this 'espionage - quiet movements and veiled lies - is not my best asset. Nor should it be.
The tall nagaji processes Shiela's words as he nibbles at a cracker adorned with pork slices. Looming over many of his fellows, the adventurer stands tall and decked out in a full suit or armor that covers all of his body and even most of his long neck. The fairly plain black plate is adorned by a singled small mark in the center of the chest-plate: an sapphire-hued clawed hand, with its palm out and claws splayed wide.
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Don't worry, my large friend....this type of mission is more suited to my skillset, but your muscle would be greatly appreciated if things go awry. Rallas says as he takes a sip of his coffee and munches on a biscuit. He is a slender elf, his wickedly curved sword dangling from a back mounted sheath. He makes almost no sound as he walks, not even his armor.
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Espionage is music to Kelumur's ears, however the motivation less so. Why are we here? Certainly there are people out there in need of saving, yet, here we are running errands for the society. turning to Marius, he adds to the conversation, in a gruff but mature voice. "You could certainly create a distraction. Perhaps, the diversion would allow others to entertain the task our Venture Captain assign to us."
Kelumur dons an unkept hooded robe, and garments made of grey and black, clearly signifying a preference outside the light. He keeps his hood on obscuring much of his facial features, except his rugged stubby facial hair. Judging from his physical appearance, it is safe to assume his has an ancestry of orc heritage. Unlike most half orc's, his skin is a pale dark red, as if it was burnt, a feature that could possibly be explained by long exposure around volcanoes or hot temperatures.
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"Kiboko can go quiet as a jungle cat."
The statement seems improbable, coming from a towering grey-black half-orc. His bleached dreadlocks are tied back behind his head, his face decorated with white warpaint. He wears a breastplate and carries numerous weapons, most notably a wicked-looking hooked lance and a greatsword. A tiny purple gemstone orbits his head.
Even more out of place in the manor-house is the juvenile, leather-clad hippopotamus at his side.
"Haaaarrrrr???!"
Mvumbu the Wise and Beautiful nuzzled her good friend Kiboko. Where was the food? She could smell meat and vegetables, but there only seemed to be tiny specks! She waddled off, and knocked over a small table of hors d'oevre, greedily swallowing all the tiny delicacies.
"Moooaaarrgg! Haaarrr! Haaaarrr!"
Kiboko crossed over to her and gave her a large bone that he removed from his pack. Mvumbu gnawed on the bone contentedly.
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Kelumur eyes the wild pair, and nods his head slowly. "Of course, we'll have to see how quiet jungle cats are." He speaks as he circles around the hippo, judging it's capability as he does so.
As he walks around, between each step, as his robes flicker, an array of daggers can be seen under strapped along his belt.
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After Sheila finishes speaking, a short, powerfully built half-orc in gleaming mithril full plate, with a wolf at his side, stands to join the conversation.
Kramac isn't so good at sneaking around. But you'd be surprised how often espionage means breaking things! Kramac will stand back and let Kelmur, Rallas and Kiboko handle the sneaking. Kuuma and I will rush in to smash some wicked heads if needed. And if we need to tell some lies to convince someone to drop out- well, proper embellishment is one of the most important parts to a good story. And Kramac tells a damn fine story!
Kramac turns to Kiboko, Good to see you my friend! And Mvumbu, what is Kiboko feeding you? You look famished!
Kramac wanders off for a moment, and some shouting can be heard from the kitchen staff. A bit later Kramac reappears with a large bowl filled with lettuce and vegetables from the kitchen, which he sets in front of Mvumbu.
After returning, he addresses Kelumur, who is currently sizing up Mvumbu. Jungle cats are very quiet! Jungle hippos... less so. But still much quieter than you'd expect!
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After returning, he addresses Kelumur, who is currently sizing up Mvumbu. Jungle cats are very quiet! Jungle hippos... less so. But still much quieter than you'd expect!
Any amount of quiet would be more than I expect. Marsius says looking at the massive mammal.
But you are right. Maybe some of these other parties can be reasoned with or deals made. And I will work to protect you as best I can.
A faint muffled noise comes trickling out from the scabbard at Marsius' belt as he moves towards Karmac and Kelumer. One could almost make out faint words, in a rambunctious tone...
Yes! Move forwards decisively and valiantly. I like the cut of that man's jib!
Mvumbu happily gorges on the vegetables that Kramac brings for her.
"You are wise to get on her good side, brother!" says Kiboko.
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A blonde haired pixie of an elf wanders around through the assembly, greeting other Pathfinders she recognizes and meeting new allies. Finally, she settles on a rather curious group that seems to be comprised mainly of half orcs and animal companions, the only exception being a single Nagaji.
"Pretty diverse group we have here!" she says with a smile while reaching to give Kuumaa a scratch.
Her voluminous robes and multitude of pockets seem to sprout goodies she feeds to both creatures as she addresses the rest of the group.
"I may not be the best at sneaking around, but I can usually talk my way through just about anything!" Her dazzling smile lights up the group as she turns it on full wattage.
Even before the venture-captain arrives, the theater in Heidmarch Manor is crammed with Pathfinders. Heidmarch enters quietly, then slips through the crowd, takes the stage, and speaks. “Tonight, the Council of Ushers is sponsoring a pre-auction gala, to be hosted at the Cathedral of Abadar. During the party, the auctioneers intend to display the Runecarved Key in order to entice potential bidders. Anyone serious about entering the auction will be required to place a deposit of ten thousand gold coins in an escrow account at the cathedral.
“We need you to attend this event, both to submit our deposit as well as to determine who else might be interested in the key. While most of those attending received invitations, the event is semi-private and open to anyone with enough money to place serious bids. While the city provided me with an invitation, my appearance would give our many enemies cause for suspicion. For this reason, I ask that all of you go in my stead, and enter as my proxies. Still, we do not want out enemies to speculate on our own intentions. For this reason you must keep a low profile and avoid seeming too eager about the key. Each of you will be given a portion of the full deposit to take to the temple to present to Proctor Imikar”
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As your briefing completes Sheila Heidmarch hands each of you a strong box containing a portion of the 10,000 gp deposit.
***
Upon your arrival to the Cathedral of Abadar you witness a steady stream of guest as they ascend the stairs and enter the cathedral’s
main sanctuary, where the viewing is being held. Rows of paladins donning white tabards stitched with the golden key of Abadar flank the main entrance. Their hands clench tightly around their gleaming swords as they stand almost motionless, ever-vigilant stares upon their faces.
As you enter, various low-level priests invite you to partake in food and beverages while you mingle about. You decide to deposit your funds first. One of the acolytes directs you to Proctor Jyronn Imikar, a pleasant Osirian priest who runs the temple. Imikar accepts your deposit and writes something in his ledger. After a moment Proctor Imikar closes the book ”Thank you for entering the auction, will you also thank madam Heidmarch on my behalf?”
Maiveer Sloan representing the Aspis Consortium
Sheila Heidmarch representing the Pathfinder Society
Dymal Rinks, independent
The Duchesses representing no one
Doctor Ernst Landis representing the Museum of Ages
Zimandi Kaddren
Sheila Heidmarch representing the Pathfinder Society
Dymal Rinks, independent
The Duchesses representing no one
Falrig Sneve
Kresch Vaor representing Underbridge Exports
Dymal Rinks, independent
The Duchesses representing no one
Zimandi Kaddren
Falrig Sneve
Kresch Vaor representing Underbridge Exports
Sheila Heidmarch representing the Pathfinder Society
Dymal Rinks, independent
The Duchesses representing no one
Doctor Ernst Landis representing the Museum of Ages
Maiveer Sloan representing the Aspis Consortium
Kresch Vaor representing Underbridge Exports
Sheila Heidmarch representing the Pathfinder Society
Dymal Rinks, independent
Doctor Ernst Landis representing the Museum of Ages
Zimandi Kaddren
Sheila Heidmarch representing the Pathfinder Society
Dymal Rinks, independent
Zimandi Kaddren
***
After depositing the funds you take a drink and something to eat. A squat man in white robes steps upon the cathedral dais to address the room. Introducing himself as the sexton of Magnimar’s High Cathedral of Abadar, he greets his guests with a broad, welcoming smile. “Good evening, friends! I’m pleased to see so many of our distinguished and honored guests could attend. For those of you not fortunate enough to have participated in our pre-auction festivities, please feel free to take part in all the luxuries and wonders within these halls. And with my welcome, I have the pleasure unveiling the auction’s feature lot. Enjoy!”
With the utterance of the final word he pulls aside the veil, displaying a gigantic key. It stands roughly three feet tall and is made of stone etched with glowing arcane symbols. The crowd applauds and people turn back to their companions to discuss the key. The crowd is an eclectic mix of landholders, merchants, and other notable figures from all over Varisia, wide-eyed and curious to glimpse the mysterious Runecarved Key. Hired servants weave through the crowd bearing luxurious platters of fruits, sweetbreads, and oysters or trays topped with crystal goblets of heady red wine. Guests mingle slowly, socializing amicably but cautiously with longtime acquaintances, as they feel out potential competitors.
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"I have noted two names from the ledger, both claiming to be here on their own interest. Dymal Rinks and the Duchess. Does any of these names ring a bell to any of you?" Kelumur whispers as the group mingles around. Clearly his outfit has him out of place, and he looks to be uncomfortable in the setting.
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Amelia peers over the Proctors shoulder and catches a quick glimpse of several names before the book slams shut. "You are most welcome, sir, and I would be happy to convey your greetings to Madame Heidmarch." With a bow, she excuses herself back to her group. As the key is revealed, she gasps in wonder and curiosity. Quickly, she pulls out a note book and begins copying exactly what she sees, wanting.. needing to study this marvelous artifact at a later date. As the rest of the group gathers, she manages to finish her quick sketches and turns to the rest of the party. "I did manage to see a few of the names.. I don't know about the rest of you. Perhaps we should compare notes to see where to start??"
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Glancing over Amelia's notes, Kelumur's eyes stop hard at the sight of the word Aspis Consortium. "So the snakes are here, I suppose that should be no surprise to any of us as they are known have heavy activities as the captain mentioned, it be best we identify him, and follow him from afar. We cannot risk him being out of our sights."
A little later on, with vested interest in the Aspis, Kelumur decides he best attempt to identify the Aspis individual Maiveer Sloan by placing himself in crowds following conversations that might lead him to locating the said man.
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At the party, Kiboko wears a permanent scowl. He looks as if he thinks demons might emerge from thin air at any moment and launch an attack.
"Kiboko also saw several names of bidders. It was 'Duchesses' Kiboko saw." Kiboko whispers to his fellow pathfinders.
"Kiboko agrees we must ensure we know the Aspis' plans."
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Dymal and Duchess. And a Zimandi Kaddren as well. Marsius says quietly to Kelumer and Amelia as they gather. I have not heard of any of them either. But perhaps some of the merchants know a bot about them.
I fear I may make the Aspis suspicious if I pry directly. So I will try to learn about Dymal Rinks - an 'independent'.
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Comparing notes the group quickly splits off in all directions to investigate who they can.
Amelia keeps a look out while scanning the crowd for Dymal Rinks. Amelia spends several minutes making the rounds and is unable to locate who she is looking for.
Rounding the corner Kelumur watches as a gaunt, fashionably dressed Chelaxian handshakes his way through the room, accompanied by a half-dozen followers who appear to be equal parts attendant and bodyguard. This would have to be Maiveer Sloan, head of Magnimar’s chapter of the Aspis Consortium.
Looking a bit disgruntled Kiboko may have well found his ddemon he has been searching for. Toward the back of the room stands a gray-haired man in his early fifties, dressed in fine silken robes and flanked by two muscular guards. The man nervously fingers a small silver coin, flipping it about in his fingers. This nervous man is Falrig Sneve, an eclectic, wealthy, and extremely superstitious merchant and artifact collector from the Capital District.
Marsius on the other hand seems to locate Dymal Rinks where Amelia failed. A squat halfling, dressed in plain clothes skates about the edge of the crowd, his eyes flitting back and forth between the key and the exit. This is Dymal Rinks, a regional merchant’s arbitrator, who has made a name for himself using of his sharp wit and quick tongue to broker deals between many of Varisia’s most powerful merchants. Over the past decade, he’s traveled throughout most of Varisia and has made hundreds of business contacts.
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I noticed Maiveer Sloan for the Aspis, Kresch Vaor representing Underbirde Exports, our own Sheila Heidmarch, Drmal Rinks, Doctor Ernst Landis representing the Museum of Ages and Zimandi Kaddren. I agree with Marius, I will probably make the Aspis suspicious if I talk to him. Is punching someone because they are a member of a wicked, dishonest organization suspicious? I will attempt to size up this Kresch Vaor.
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Kramac does a bit of speaking among the groups. Moving slowly through the crowd is an uncomely woman with large teeth and a shrewlike nose, dressed unbecomingly in the drab clothing of a stevedore. Slight in stature with a slightly stooped posture, she behaves in a mostly standoffish manner. Slipping to the edge of the crowd, she nervously waits for the key. Spotting the artifact, she make a few quick notes then slips off.
The woman is Kresch Vaor, hailing from Underbridge. She’s not particularly well-known but her clothing is threadbare and doesn’t fit her well, making her stick out among the gala’s generally fashionable guests. Wearing secondhand clothes is common among residents of Magnimar’s poorer districts, who are otherwise not well represented at the event.
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Marsius on the other hand seems to locate Dymal Rinks where Amelia failed. A squat halfling, dressed in plain clothes skates about the edge of the crowd, his eyes flitting back and forth between the key and the exit. This is Dymal Rinks, a regional merchant’s arbitrator, who has made a name for himself using of his sharp wit and quick tongue to broker deals between many of Varisia’s most powerful merchants. Over the past decade, he’s traveled throughout most of Varisia and has made hundreds of business contacts.
The nagaji attempts to make his way through the mingling crowd towards Dymal. Walking up behind the dealmaker, he looks at the key and speaks: It is quite an interesting item, correct? I have read that giants used to wander this area - do you think this key was their's given its unwieldy size?
Marsius turns towards Mr. Rinks and gives a wide grin while extending his hand. Apologies: I am brother Marsius. It is rude to talk without introductions. I hear you have worked with many merchants all across this region. I have been to Varisia a few times before myself, but never so far to the south. Instead I have only seen Korovosa and the Fenwall Mountains so far.
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Amelia searches through the crowds, not quite finder her quarry. She pauses near the drink station and blows a sigh of air out of the side of her mouth, which in turn adjusts the lock of hair that has been dangling annoyingly in front of her right eye. She grabs a glass of wine, peering over the heads of the assembly trying to see how her companions are faring.
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Kramac will muss up his hair, and ruffle his clothes, attempting to make himself look more unkempt. He will then approach the woman he spotted.
Ah! Nice to see someone else here not at home with such hoity toity high faluten crowds. I prefer a good tavern in the bad part of town to this sort of thing. What brings you here tonight? Bidding on the Key? Just want to see what all the hubub is about? Working for someone?
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The nagaji attempts to make his way through the mingling crowd towards Dymal. Walking up behind the dealmaker, he looks at the key and speaks: It is quite an interesting item, correct? I have read that giants used to wander this area - do you think this key was their's given its unwieldy size?
Marsius turns towards Mr. Rinks and gives a wide grin while extending his hand. Apologies: I am brother Marsius. It is rude to talk without introductions. I hear you have worked with many merchants all across this region. I have been to Varisia a few times before myself, but never so far to the south. Instead I have only seen Korovosa and the Fenwall Mountains so far.
Rinks looks up at the far taller Nagaji. "Giants you say? Would be hard to argue due to the size." He holds out his hand and cautiously shakes Marsius' clawed hand.
"You seem to know a bit about me? What brings you up this way?" His eyes flit back towards the exit.
Kramac will muss up his hair, and ruffle his clothes, attempting to make himself look more unkempt. He will then approach the woman he spotted.
Ah! Nice to see someone else here not at home with such hoity toity high faluten crowds. I prefer a good tavern in the bad part of town to this sort of thing. What brings you here tonight? Bidding on the Key? Just want to see what all the hubub is about? Working for someone?
As Kramac approaches her she flits a quick crooked smile before raising her hand. "Excuse me. I need to go." She brushes past the burly half orc towards the exit door.
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Rinks looks up at the far taller Nagaji. "Giants you say? Would be hard to argue due to the size." He holds out his hand and cautiously shakes Marsius' clawed hand.
"You seem to know a bit about me? What brings you up this way?" His eyes flit back towards the exit.
The nagaji pauses to gaze at the large artifact once more. [b]Are you also a scholar Mr. Rinks? Or are you here to help one of your associates?
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Rallas looks about for someone matching the description of the Duchess. Instead he is surprised to find two women standing to the side of the cathedral, conversing softly between themselves. Both are dressed in Varisian travelers’ clothes draped with thick cloaks.
These Varisian women go only by the shared name Duchess, which they use when refering to one another and introducing themselves. Their clothing reflects typical Varisian fashion, while its practical material and multiple layers reflect the functional styles worn by the people of Magnimar’s hinterlands. They are not immediately recognizable or identifiable, Rallas can confirm that they are not notable residents of Magnimar—these women are likely from out of town.
Winding his way through the crowd Kiboko finds that Kramac has found Kresh Vaor and seems to be engaging in conversation with her as she tries to push past him towards the exit.
Kelumur shifts among the large cathedral but is unable to locate the Duchess without the help of his companions.
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Tossing back her drink, Amelia goes back in search of her prey.. She sees her companions as they move through, and eventually picks up that only a few of the players remain to be found. This time, she focuses on the Doctor from the Museum. At least this one may have an interesting story or four! I wonder what his specialty is!! the elf muses as she moves through the crowd, eager for whatever new knowledge she could glean from one so important. But the mission.. I must not get wrapped up again like last time.. I have to keep my focus!!"
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"Is this man bothering you, madam?" Kiboko addresses Kresh Vaor, trusting that Kramac will play along.
"You appear to be in need of assistance."
The woman smiles up with sharp gangling teeth. "Yes, thank you!" She uses the opportunity as Kramac looks confused at Kiboko. While the pair tries to figure out what happened they look back down and the woman is gone. Quickly looking around you catch a quick glimpse of her as she leaves the exit.
Near the front of the gathering, vying for a look at the key, stands a balding, weathered old man wearing heavy robes stitched with runes. Despite his age, his face beams with a boyish grin as he gazes at the curious artifact.
This is Doctor Ernst Landis, curator of Magnimar’s publicly funded Museum of Ages as Kelumur well knows. Both Kelumur and Amelia seem to spot the curious man at the same time from opposite sides of the room.
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Amelia rushes towards the key as she spots the aged doctor studying its intricacies. As she moves in, she greets the man with warmth and a smile. "It is good to see another scholar as absolutely fascinated with this as I am!" she gushes. "My name is Amelia. This is fascinating, no? I could spend years studying this and still find more to admire. Are you hoping to purchase this as well?"
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Unclear with the doctors intentions, Kelumur makes his way closer to the man, but upon seeing Amelia reach him first, he backs off, blending once again with the crowd.
In effort to leave no stone unturned, Kelumur continues to thoroughly go through the guest, in attempts to identify the last named individual, Zimandi Kaddren.
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Marsius is somewhat saddened to see his chosen bidder excuse himself, but looking around the room the nagaji spots Amelia off talking with an elderly gentleman. He tries to move around the key towards her, calling out as he approaches.
Ah, Amelia! It is good to see you again. There are so many interesting people gathered for the presentation. Oh, and who is your friend here? Marsius stops and extends a scaled hand. I am Brother Marsius.
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Kelumur spots a strikingly handsome Chelaxian woman with deep, dark
eyes and black hair steps forward to admire the key. She is richly dressed in a flowing gown cut to the very latest in Magnimarian fashion as she speaks with a small group of investors.
This woman is Zimandi Kaddren, the current matriarch of one of Magnimar’s founding families. Among other things, the Kaddrens are noted for sending their scions to study the arcane arts in the Inner Sea’s most prestigious schools and are known supporters of the Golemworks.
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"So, we must now discover what these rivals can bid, or dissuade them from bidding at all, without revealing our particular interest in the key, yes?"
Kiboko tries to ascertain the next steps.
"Two potential bidders have already left. Kiboko could track one of them? But Vaor appeared too poor to be a serious rival. Sloan has the resources of the Aspis to call on. Sneve is an individual, perhaps we could play on his superstitions and convince him that the key is cursed? We do not know what resources or motivations the "duchesses" have. Landis likely has a museum's resources at his disposal: but is it a wealthy museum? Does it rival the Blakros museum for example? Kiboko is surprised Nigel Aldain isn't here! Kaddren likely has the wealth to be a serious rival, but why would she want the key?"
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Kelumur nods as they regroup sharing the features of the interested individuals. "I, for one, am not keen to engage in chatter of any kind. I should prefer to follow through on the Aspis scum, they are no matter to be taken lightly from my experience."
Kelumur keeps his distance in hopes the man doesn't realise Kelumur tracks him, but tries to be close enough to ascertain the mans motives through eavesdropping.