[PFS] GM Alias' Cult of the Ebon Destroyers (Inactive)

Game Master Ilmakis

Maps!!


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VC Mihir glances around at the group with somewhat of a surprised expression, followed quickly by one of resignation. "Ah, well, we play the hand that fate deals us, yes? I am sure you have other talents that will come in handy. Like I said, Aseem speaks Common and should be able to translate for you. But remember, he is a humble servant, not a world-weary explorer like the rest of us."

He pauses to take a sip of tea before continuing on.

"So, you are probably wondering about why I called you down to our beautiful island. I was contacted by my good friend Lord Raheem Pansidar, who is one of the most loyal and influential members of the Maurya-Rahm. The Maurya-Rahm advise and serve as administrators to our beloved leader, Thakur Kharswan. Several weeks ago, one of the Thakur's cousins went missing. After many days, and much consultation with seers and magicians, his body was finally found. It bore the markings of a ritual killing, attributed to one of the most mysterious, and dangerous of cults. They are known as the Cult of the Ebon Destroyers, and are known to worship the dark goddess Dhalavei throughout Jalmeray. Following this discovery, the Thakur forced through a resolution banning the cult and outlawing the worship of Dhalavei. Since that time, the Thakur has received several death threats from the cult."

The VC pauses here, staring off into space for a moment. After collecting his thoughts, he continues:"The hallmarks of this cult are deception and trickery. Lord Raheem is afraid the cult has already infiltrated the Court, so he sought a group of outsiders to investigate the matter. I feel honored that Lord Raheem thought to ask myself and the Pathfinder Society to get involved. I have a meeting set with Lord Raheem for tomorrow afternoon, where I am sure he can provide further details. Until then, you are free to relax here, or explore the city and take part in the festival."

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

Knowledge Local: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (10) + 9 = 19

Any information about these Ebon Destroyers that Quarr might know.

Quarr begins to flip through his book to see if he can remember anything about this Cult. The pages flip quickly as he spills all kinds of seeds and crumbs into the pages. More than once he attempts to speak with his mouth full of seeded muffins and explain something that noone is able to understand, except possibly Drax.

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad sighs as he sees that none of his companions speak Vudrani. "Vell, that is most inconvenient." He takes a sip of tea, musing on the issues this lack will cause, particularly on the matter of keep Aseem protected.

Konrad listens patiently to the Venture-Captain's briefing, nodding appopriately at the correct moments and visibly giving him his full attention.

"This is a grave matter indeed! An evil cult that may have infiltrated the highest levels of the government." He slaps his hand against his knee. "I vill ensure that these vile fiends are uncovered und stopped."

He leans in towards the Venture-Captain, his elbow resting on his knee.

"Is there anything else that you can tell us about this cult? Vhatever information you can give, no matter how small it seems, can be useful! Vhen veeding-out cults, simply knowing their deity's favored veapon und colors can give some much-needed help in finding their trail!"

Knowledge (religion) about the Cult: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (9) + 10 = 19

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Drax looks completely unconcerned, and unsurprised, over the matter of the linguistic lack. He shrugs.

"The Grand Lodge chiefs do not know how to assign warriors," he says flatly. "This, I have observed many times."

Drax looks around for something more filling than the last one of the seeded cakes-- preferably some form of meat, cooking optional-- but finds himself disappointed. He growls, and grabs the last cake, glaring at Quarr as his primary competitor in cake acquisition.

Grand Lodge

Male Human Oracle 9, HP 59 [59], AC 20 [14], Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +8, Init +3, Perception +13

"Do you know of anywhere the cult is likely to be? Any unusual activity in town or an abrubt shift in an area?" Nox asks, clearly dreading spending time with 'happy' people.

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananta ponders all this, as he readies a cup of tea for the gnome's benefit. For when he desires to wash the cake down.

"Perhaps then, we should sspend sssome time among those who live here. Talk to them, and sssee what they have to sssay about thisss ssstate of affairsss. With the help of our interpretor, it would be an honor for me to gather sssome information on your behalves."
He pauses momentarily before adding for Nox's benefit: "Perhaps they might be able to anssswer the questions you hold."


Neither Konrad nor Quarr are able to recall anything of value about the cult.

VC Mihir ponders a moment, then responds: "I'm afraid I know nothing more of this cult than a handful of rumors. It is said they are everywhere. But if that were true, things would be much worse off than they are, no? I believe Lord Raheem will be able to answer more of your questions than I."

After a few more words of chit-chat, VC Mihir excuses himself and leaves for the evening, offering a quick bow before he leaves.

You have a day to yourselves. If no one has anything specific in mind, I can move us forward to the meeting with Lord Raheem.

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

If at all possible, Ananta would go out with the manservant and spend the rest of the day gathering information

"If I may, Venture Captain, I will take your manssservant along with me to chat with the people. A time of celebration is sssurely a time for people to sssspeak their minds." hisses Ananta pleasantly as he rises from his seat.

Diplomacy (Gather Information): 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (17) + 14 = 31

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad takes one last gulp of his tea, finishing it off in moments, then rises from his seat as well

"If you vould not mind, Ananta, I vould be happy to join you1 I would like to speak to the people as vell!"

Diplomacy (gather information) Aid Another: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (11) + 10 = 21

Liberty's Edge

Female CG Elf Ranger 7 / Wizard 1 | HP: 63/63 | AC: 21 (15 Tch, 17 Fl) | CMB: +8, CMD: 23 | F: +8, R: +11, W: +8 | Init: +6 | Perc: +22, SM: +5 | Speed 30ft | Color Spray 1/1; Reduce Person 1/1 | Active conditions:

Elenial will not join in asking around for more information, she's not used to talk to people and could make things worse.

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Drax huffs as he brushes crumbs from his hands. "I will also go. I will not talk, but I will listen. If you are attacked, perhaps there will be something fun to do!"

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

Quarr leaps from the chair and follows, eager to see more sights rather than talk to more strangers. Instead he continues to ask Drax questions non-stop for the entire walk as he flits about the man's shoulders.


The party spends some time wandering the streets of Jalmeray, taking in the sights and generally enjoying the festival. After a few discreet questions, the group locates a promising hint. This leads them to an ancient, crumbling building near the Grand Chronicler’s Circle. Inside of what appears to be a small shop are many bookcases and shelves crammed with scrolls. Behind a makeshift desk sits a chubby, dark-skinned man wearing an inordinately large turban.

After a bit of small talk, and a strong sales pitch to buy a twenty volume collection of the complete history of Jalmeray, the group is able to steer the conversation to the subject of the cult. The man responds in a heavily accented Common:

“The Ebon Destroyers have existed since ancient times and are far more prevalent in Vudra than elsewhere on Golarion. Unless the cult wants to leave a message, its victims’ bodies are rarely found. There have been many attempts to eradicate the cult, but the cultists inevitably go into hiding, sometimes for years at a time, and no effort has ever been truly successful at eliminating them. At several points in Vudrani history, they have taken over entire kingdoms, ruling through fear and forcing the populace to worship their foul goddess. The cult often recruits from the lower castes, as their goddess’s aspect of destruction appeals to those who are dissatisfied with their role in society and wish revenge against those of higher status. However, Jalmeray’s caste structure is not as formal as Vudra’s, with far fewer low-caste people, meaning that the cult may work differently here. “

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananata's tongue flicks out before thanking the man for his time.

Incidentally, how much would the book collection cost? Ananta might just be willing to buy the books; there might be something in there to provide insight into the society we are going to be visiting.

"Interesssting, don't you think ssir Posen? The cult recruitsss from those dissatissfied with their lot in life. That is hardly a fault limited to a lower cassste member. What are your thoughts Draxsss? And Quarr, if I may interrupt your examination of my tail, do you have anything on thiss matter you'd like to ssshare?"

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Drax pays only half attention to the turbaned man's talk-talk-talking. He glowers at the scrolls and books that line the shop. Stupid little squiggles... Drax has a limited and somewhat stiff relationship with literacy. It definitely doesn't extend so far as to reading other languages than Taldane and Orc.

He gives Ananta a wary, suspicious squint at hearing his thoughts asked for. "...."

Drax rubs at the back of his thick neck with one hand, grimacing. Once, his opinion was listened to in the tribes! But that was before, and Drax knows full well most of the Pathfinders, what he has now instead of a tribe, think he is stupid. He glowers at the snake-man, trying to decide if the snake-man is laughing at him and needs his face punched, then decides this is not the case, and shrugs his broad shoulders.

"Always there are strong and there are weak, and the weak fight the strong with cheating and sneaking and knives in the back," he rumbles. "This cult is weak like this. Hiding, sneaking. Maybe they hide with the trash."

He turns his baleful gaze on their poor manservant-translator. "This city. Are there sewers?"

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

Drax is mostly correct. It is proven throughout history that the uneducated are easily swayed with promises. Quarr shrugs. At least that is what I have read, I don't really like talking with people.

He turns his attention to the turbaned man as he stands on his tip toes to barely peer over the table. Not quite able to get high enough he takes his bag of bombs off his shoulder and swings them around heaving the bag hard onto the table, causing everyone to wince and look about.

Once again he tries to stand on his toes and this time is able to see just a bit higher. You know where we may look for them?

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad nods, his expression grave. The size of his mane of hair adds a humorous visual to his attempts to scratch his chin.

"I have experience vith this kind. In Lastvall, ve have often had to spar vith the Cultists of the Vhispering Vay. They take advantage of those who have little else to turn to. A problem that vill not be solved until ve give such unfortunate souls a better option, I think!"

He grins and slaps on Drax on the shoulder.

"The sewers are INDEED a good place to check! You have a good head on your shoulders, Drax, HAHAHA!"


Ananta:
"The amount of knowledge contained in these volumes would be cheap at 100 gp. But I can tell you are a discerning consumer! For you, only 30 gp!"

The man ponders Drax's question for a moment before replying. "Ah, you mean tunnels, for the disposal of waste, yes? Only the rich parts of town have these 'sewers'. The rest of the town, the waste flows in ditches by the side of the roads."

Startled by the gnome slamming his bag on table, the man pauses to readjust his turban. "Why would I know where to find the cult? These are dangerous people. I would stay as far away from them as I could get."

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananta disburses the requisite amount of coin and pays the man. "While I am sssure that a man of your ssstature would enjoy a bout of haggling over these goods, I choose not to engage you thiss matter. I hope your discresssion is equal in stature to your reputation as a purveyor of quality goodssss. Blessings upon you my friend." he states in a soothing tone of voice before bowing and getting ready to leave once his companions are done with their questions.

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Drax side-eyes Konrad too, again trying to figure out if he is being mocked, then grunts to himself and decides the human seems genuine. He narrows his eyes at the revelation there are few sewers in this city, however.

"Then we look in the slums," he growls. "That is where we find the poor and the weak and the sneaks and the cheats."

He stares at Ananta. "Why are you purchasing books?! Do you think the books will tell you where this cult is? If the books said that then it would not be a secret, snake-man!!" (UGH why must he always point out the obvious to other Pathfinders!)

Drax snatches up Quarr's bag of lethality from the counter-top, gazing fiercely down at Quarr. "Handle this with care, small one, or I will see how many bottles I can push down your throat! Someday, I will die in glorious battle, as is right for a warrior. I will NOT die because you broke things on a counter, in the manner of a fool. And if I do die because you are a fool, then I will come back from the dead to kill you for it. Unless you had also died because of it. And if you had, then I would drag you back, in order to kill you!"

This somewhat nonsensical threat delivered, Drax reluctantly gives back the bombs.

"Enough of this! I wish to go find cultists! Or roast pork. That would also please me."

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad raises his fist in a triumphant pose.

"HAHAHA! Dying in glorious battle is INDEED the right of a warrior."

He lowers his fist then cracks his neck and his back as he stretches.

"I vould as vell enjoy finding some cultists und roast pork. Vhere vould you recommend beginning this search, Drax?"

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

"In the slums. The poor humans will be the targets of this cult. Also there will be humans frying meat to sell to people who walk by. I have learned that this is stupidly called 'street food.' It is not food for the street. Streets do not eat," Drax says with contempt.

He is pleased that his leadership is being sought, however! It is good to be listened to once again, as he was in Belkzen, before his failure.

"In the slums there will also be the criminals. Criminals will know where there is a cult," Drax continues with his own dogged logic. "I will threaten them, until they tell me where is this cult. This is much better than reading words in books."

He squints at Aseem. "Where does this city keep its poor?"


Aseem explains that the low-caste district is off on the southern end of the city. He leads the group back through the market district, so that anyone who is hungry can find a food stall to their liking.

The walk to the southern end of town takes about an hour. The "buildings" in this area are not so much built, as stacked together. Hovels made of mud brick and canvas line many of the streets, which are just barely wide enough for two or three people to walk abreast. Many of the people here seem malnourished and sick. Almost everyone the party encounters has a hand out, begging for whatever they can get.

Despite your best efforts, no one seems to know anything about a cult. After a couple of hours, the sun begins to set, and Aseem encourages the group to return to the house VC Mihir has rented for the group.

As the group starts up the hill towards the market district, a young girl of about eight years old approaches Aseem. She tugs on his sleeve, and he leans down so she can whisper in his ear. He then points to Ananta. She hands him a note, then waits expectantly. The note is written in Common, and reads: "The promise of death awaits you if you choose to keep interfering!"

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananta, having taken in the sights and sounds of the Dalit, takes in the contents of the note. It's penmanship. It's style. The paper it is written on. Then, much like he gave thought as to how to bring better conditions to the untouchables, he gives thought on how to deal with this newfound piece of information. He breaks it down into small manageable steps, much like he thought of the innumerable steps he would have to take to entice these people onto their own path to perfection. The similarities in the processes stops there though, as one is infinitely easier than the other.

First, he bows before the girl,ruffles her hair with a serene smile, and makes it a point of purchasing a rather large meal for her, and likely others within her household. Then, to his companions, he nods pleasantly, indicating with gesture and body language that questions must wait.

Finally, once within the confines of Venture Captain Mihir's household, he finally speaks of the note. "Friendsss, we have received a note. Written in Taldane, as a matter of courtesy towards usss. It's author ssseems to threaten usss with death should we continue to interfere. Now I am but a humble pilgrim on the quest for perfection, but I would imagine that if we are to talk in any meaningful way of this note, sssteps should be taken to ensssure our wordss do not... I'm sssorry, I almost made a mistake Drax of Belkzen" he apologizes, chastising himself mentally on the use of metaphor with the half-orc. "If we are to talk about how to react and make ready, bassed on the information in this note and all that it implies, we ssshould make sure noone whom we do not wish to hear our words is nearby" he finishes with that self-same smile upon his lips, as he hands the note in the general direction of Nox or Elenial.

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

LOL, Ananta is very considerate of Drax

Drax grunts and nods. The snake-man speaks with a lot of words but at least they are logical words that do not make his head hurt.

"On the rooftop of this house, maybe?"

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

(Assuming we do find a quiet/secure place to discuss the note)

Drax squints down at the note, mouth moving soundlessly as he painstakingly reads the words... perhaps someone simplifies things for Drax by reading it aloud. His response is a grin showing off the tusks of his orcish heritage, though his appear to have been filed to points.

"The promise of death!" he grins. "Not death itself. HA!"

Drax flashes his sharp smile around then spits expressively into a flower-bed nearby. "The person who wrote this was partly correct. There is death waiting. Also promises of death. But not for us! Tonight, one of us should be awake all the time, and the rest of us in one room. The sneaking weak cult will try and kill us as we sleep, because they are weak."

Drax grunts in thought. "The servant Aseem. He should sleep in the same room as us. This cult may think to kill him. Also we need him to talk to people."

Drax looks deeply cheered up by the thought of someone coming to kill him as he sleeps, tonight. He eagerly volunteers for the midnight watch. A potential assassination is more exciting than the talking to fancy people that is supposed to happen tomorrow.

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad grins at the note, the threat doing nothing but excite him for an oncoming battle.

"HAH! They think they can scare a knight avay vith such PUNY threats! HAHAHA!"

Konrad takes a seat with his earthbreaker resting on his shoulder.

"Ve should indeed protect Aseem! I vould happily volunteer to take vatch as vell! My eyes are not as bad as you might expect."


DC 20 Linguistics:
You discern from the abnormal and flamboyant style of the handwriting that the writer has unusually long hands with very flexible digits.

Maybe because of your precautions, the rest of the evening proves peaceful and quiet. The next day, VC Mihir collects the group about mid-morning and leads you up to the palace. Once at the palace gates, he hands you off to a palace guard, and makes his goodbyes. ” Remember, if you do well here, the Pathfinder Society will have a friend for life in the Thakur. I have faith in your abilities to see the task through to the end. ”

The guard then leads you further into the palace. Towering palatial chambers supported by elaborately carved pillars surround an ornamental stream that flows through the palace. Halls of polished marble lead to a languidly luxurious sitting room. The Thakur himself sits at the far end of the room, his bejeweled turban sparkling in the light shining through the windows. He paints a canvas while watching his baby son in a crib nearby.

Raheem is a tall, tanned man with a neatly trimmed goatee. ” Greetings. I am Lord Raheem Pandisar, advisor to the Thakur. Please, have a seat.” He gestures towards several cushions placed around a low table. Although the group is in the Thakur’s presence, he doesn’t acknowledge you; your audience is with Raheem.

After everyone is seated, Lord Raheem calls for a servant, who brings over a tray of tea and sweet cakes. Once everyone is served, he turns to the party. ” I have heard great things about the exploits of the Pathfinders. I trust your Venture Captain has filled you in on the basics of the situation?”

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananta bows low to both the Thakur and to lord Raheem. "Indeed he hassss, my lord. But I am sssure that a disscerning man such as yourssself would not have sssummoned uss here without a purpose beyond that of repeating what hasss been sssaid. As such" he hisses pleasantly as he takes a seat crossed-legged "we are anxiouss to hear more of it, in your own wordsss."

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

At a convention this weekend. Will post tomorrow once I get a chance.

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad salutes the Thakur and Lord Raheem. "Ananta has the right of it! Ve understand the basics, und ve are looking forvard to learning more und getting started"

He pats the earthbreaker on his back and grins, his whole body charged with anxious energy.

"This knight und his weapon yearn for a GLORIOUS chance to fight for justice once more!"

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Drax busies himself with the tray of sweet cakes. Occasionally he throws bemused glares over at the Thakur, but he says nothing, because he's talked to the important people before on missions and had other Pathfinders get very angry at him and tell him that he is a stupid brute and he has ruined things. To Drax's annoyance he is not allowed to kill other Pathfinders when they talk to him in this fashion.

So he eats cake instead, balefully.

Grand Lodge

Male Human Oracle 9, HP 59 [59], AC 20 [14], Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +8, Init +3, Perception +13

Linguistics: 1d20 ⇒ 1 Wow all my rolls on here today have been terrible

"Yes, we would like to hear it from your point of view as well. What's the first sign that this problem was starting?" Nox asks

Diplo: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (16) + 19 = 35

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

"I apologize my lordsss, Lord Posen of Lastwall reminds me of my failingss. I am Anata Sheshakara, a pilgrim upon the path of the Master of Mastersss. Thisss one here is Drax, named the Destroyer by his allies. He enemiess do not call him anything, for they have died." The snake man chuckles at his own, lame joke and continues, unperturbed. "Thisss one is Quarr the gnome and the Elven warrior there is Elenial Windwalker. As for the man in the robesss, he has no name for usss to use."

Linguistics (I forgot I had that!): 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (15) + 1 = 16

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Oh, damn. I forgot about linguistics

Konrad patiently waits for Nox and Ananta to finish looking over the letter. He scans it up and down with a trained eye. He finally smiles and taps the table with a finger as punctuation to some discovery.

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

"Aha! Ve can tell from the strokes here und here, as vell as the irregular style, that the writer of this note has unusually delicate fingers und long hands. I vould not be surprised if they are not humanoids."

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

Seeing the pillows Quarr listens intently as he lays down on his stomach, placing his hands underneath his chin, supporting his head by his elbows on the pillow.

Hearing his name Quarr leaps to his feet, losing a few more bombs from his satchel as they roll about the room. He rushes forward to Raheem and shakes his hand. Pleasedtomeetyou.Howcanwehelp?Doyouhavealeadonwherewecanstartlookingforthes eEbonDestroyers?


"I appreciate the help of the Pathfinder Society in this matter. I believe that informants have infiltrated the palace, since our current investigations into the cult have uncovered surprisingly little information. I am hopeful that you, as outsiders, will have advantages in finding the cult that locals would not."

"As such, I ask that you report to me, and only to me. We do not need the cult sabotaging things any further."

The man reaches into a pocket inside his tunic, and draws forth a folded document. "Here is an official writ of authority. It states that you are on official business for the Thakur, and you are operating under my authority. It should open some doors, and loosen some tongues, for you."

"As to where to start, I have a couple of ideas. Here are letters of introduction. Prince Kanvar's cousin, Vaheen, runs a small bookshop near the Grand Chronicler's Circle. He is a great student of history. Lord Mahindra is an infamous rumormonger. Almost nothing occurs in this town without his knowledge. Pravezak is the Thakur's spiritual councilor. He may be able to provide some insight to the evil goddess the cultists venerate. And Varunasi is a well connected merchant. He is well acquainted with local politics. He may be able to offer some information that would prove useful to the investigation."

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad takes the writ and the letters, nodding and smiling graciously. "Thank you. Ve vill ensure that ve do no dishonor to you in our investigations in your name."

Konrad takes a moment to flip through the letters, considering each of the leads in-turn. "I vould say ve start vith either the spiritual councilor or he merchant. The other leads sound as though they have less potential at the moment, as much as I vould love to learn more of this place's history!"

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Drax bares his filed-down teeth and snatches hurriedly for Quarr's rolling bombs before they can fetch up forcefully against the fancy furniture. He shakes his head, glaring daggers at the probably-oblivious gnome.

He listens with ill patience to the litany of many names, then shrugs his brawny shoulders at Konrad's suggestions. "It is equal to me. Are we done here in this--"

Drax gropes momentarily for words. Ryjul would have said, he thinks.... your pampered little pleasure-palace, all paints and popinjays! and made it very mocking. Drax is not good with words like Ryjul.

"...this soft place?"

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananta rises, bowing again low. "As you can sssee my lord, we are eager to fulfill your command. We will take our leave then, with your blesssings. Your highnessss..." Questions can wait until Drax is otherwise mollified and Quarr is busy inspecting something in another room. Perhaps with a better bag for his explosive contraptions. he thinks serenely with his selfsame smile upon his lips. "Yesss Drax. We are done here. Lord Posen, I humbly advise meeting with the ssspiritual adviser, wise Pravezak."


The group bids farewell to Lord Raheem, who shows them to the door and wishes them gods-speed in their search.

Pravezak resides in the Thakur’s palace, providing spiritual guidance to Kharswan and his family. He’s thin, with wild, frizzy hair, and dresses in simple orange robes. After reviewing the letter of introduction from Lord Raheem, he relates the following:

”Stories describe Dhalavei as a shapely, three-headed woman with ebon-black skin and unbound blueblack hair. Each of her two arms branches at the elbow into six forearms, in which she holds a temple sword, a noose, a black glass orb, and a sealed scroll. One hand shows a symmetric symbol on the palm, while her last hand is outstretched in a mystic gesture.

As all colors vanish in shadow and darkness, so do all forms and things vanish in Dhalavei’s shadow. Her faithful claim that she holds the hidden comprehension of the unmaking of all things, and that she awaits the time when her cult is perfectly positioned to unleash her final destruction. She relishes well-planned espionage that leads to the devastation of enemies, the sowing of discord that breaks families, and secret political corruption that topples empires.

Frequently outlawed, Dhalavei’s cultists work in clandestine groups and sacrifice their enemies and other intelligent beings to their dark goddess. The new moon is a propitious time for sacrifices to Dhalavei, as her cult claims that she then actively strips the light from the night sky. Eclipses are especially sacred events to Dhalavei’s faithful.”

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining

Draz listens with more 'I'm only grudgingly tolerating this' patience as the adviser blathers about gods and shadows, half of which he tunes out. He sort of tunes back in towards the end, squinting at all the talk of moons.

I'm assuming we would have been able to seen the moon from the decks of the Frisky Lion! Are we near the new moon?

"...eclipses?" the half-orc grunts, with his arms crossed over his bared chest. "Those were called Gorum-bathing-the-sky-in-blood where I grew up. The shamans knew of their coming, but not the rest of us. Is one of these soon?"

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

Konrad scratches his chin through his mane of hair. He runs through his memories of his various run-ins with necromantic cults in Lastwall and western Ustalav, trying to draw upon his experience to determine the best questions.

"Do the objects she holds in her arms have any special significance? Vhat do they do to sacrifice their enemies, und vhat have they been caught doing in the past?"

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

Quarr listens quite intently this time as he begisn to scribe notes in his journal along with a picture of the eclipse and woman with may arms.

I wonder if my mutagen could give me six arms? He writes a reminder to try the experiment later.

Grand Lodge

Male Human Oracle 9, HP 59 [59], AC 20 [14], Fort +6, Ref +6, Will +8, Init +3, Perception +13

"Six arms... How vile." Nox says.

Can I try a know religion check to see if I know more?

Scarab Sages

Male LG Nagagi Paladin (Hospitalier, Warrior of the Holy Light) 5 / Oracle (Life) 5 | HP: 93/93 | AC: 28 (12 Tch, 27 Fl) | CMB: +14 CMD: 26 | F: +11, R: +7, W: +10 ;+2 vs Charm, Compulsion, Poison, Mind-Affecting Effects and Death | Init: +3 | Perc: +0, SM: +2 | Speed 20ft | Lay on Hands 6/6 (4d6) | |Channel + NRG (Paladin) (3d6) 6/6 DC 14|Channel + NRG (Oracle) (5d6) 6/6 DC 15 | Spells: lvl1 7/7, lvl 2 5/5 | Active conditions: None.

Ananta serenely listens, committing to memory the man's words.

The Exchange

Half-orc Destroyer 9 | HP 31/97 | AC 22-T15-F19 | F+13 R+10 W+5 | CMD 30 | Per +8, Init +3 | Rage: 1rd remaining
Nox De Angelus wrote:
Can I try a know religion check to see if I know more?

Good rule of thumb in PBP is to just go ahead and roll KN checks if it occurs to you to do so, heh. The time delay to ask if you can roll it, get answered, then roll it, then get told what you know is a lot longer in PBP than it is at a table, after all.... and it's not like you use any resources by rolling an KN check, usually.


Drax has it right. If you want to try something, just go ahead and make the roll. If it turns out the approach won't work, I will let you know in the follow up post. In this case, the knowledge roll won't provide anything beyond what Pravezek knows.

Turning to the half-orc:" The moon is currently waning. We should hit the new moon in about ten days. But I do not believe there is an eclipse coming any time soon."

"I am sure the objects she is depicted as holding have some significance, but if so, they are known only to the faithful of Dhalevi."

"Their sacrificial methods are quite gruesome. Whenever the cult kills in Dhalevi's name, they fill their victims' mouths and throats with acid, which symbolizes corruption from within."

"One of the cultists more successful endeavors is to join caravans, sometimes in several small groups to allay suspicion, waiting until they befriend the travelers and gain their trust. In the dark of night, at prearranged places, they strike using sacrificial blades or their bare hands to stealthily and systematically murder their victims. The cultists then dispose of the bodies, making entire caravans disappear without a trace."

The man seems to know little more about the cults current activities.

Silver Crusade

Male Gnome (9.0A) Alch 9 | HP 54/57 | AC 32;TCH 18; FF 28 | F +10; R +11; W+6 | CMB +6; CMD 19
Consumables:
Bomb 0/20 | Muta 0/1 (+4DEX / -2 WIS/ +2 AC/+2 reflex) | Wings 7/9; Bewildering 2/3 | Wands: CLW 34/50; Endure Elements 40/50 | Alc Fire 8/10; acid 5/5 | Bolts 15/20; CI 50/50; Silver 49/50

Quarr claps excitedly. Ohhh. I have not been on a caravan since the Ruby Sage gave me these wings. Obviously excited he forgets to explain himself a bit more.

Sounds like we need to find ourselves a caravan to finds and question one of these cultists.

Silver Crusade

AC 29 T 14(18 vs incorp.) FF 25| Current HP 66/66| F +10 R +6 W +6 (+2 vs. charms, compulsions, and emotion; +1 vs. confusion; +5 vs. fear)| Init +2| Perc +9 Human
Spells Per Day Remaining:
3-1/2, 2-2/4, 1-3/5
Spells Active:
Lead Blades, Shield, Resist Energy 20 (fire, lightning), Haste, Bless

"They are more successful vith caravans? Do you know vhere ve could find more information about these various caravans?"

Konrad motions for the party to come close before he pulls them into a huddle. The large boisterous knight manages an actual whisper.

"If these cultists are finding great success vith murdering caravans, perhaps they have a connection to a caravan company or merchant that can supply them vith access, information, und resources. Any connection between the various attacks could lead us to this cult."

He pulls back, draws his earthbreaker, then pats it against his palm.

"UND THEN VE CRUSH THEM! HAHAHA!"

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