GM Lithrac |
You have been summoned to the Sandswept Hall, the Pathfinder Lodge in Sothis, one of the largest cities in Osirion. Balentiir shutters of the windows in his second-story office overlooking the lodge’s tranquil gardens and seats himself behind his writing desk. He nods and introduces a thin, aging Garundi man in an ornately bejeweled and feathered turban.
“This is Amenopheus, the Sapphire Sage. I trust most of you know of him already. If you don’t, know that he has served both the Ruby Prince and the Pathfinder Society for many years, uncovering vast troves of lore from Ancient Osirion and mentoring some of our finest agents. He recently approached my colleagues and me with a request for assistance, and the Society has agreed to step up and aid its ally. The arrangement is, in fact, rather mutually beneficial.” He nods to Amenopheus, signaling the elder man to speak.
“Faithful servants of the past, I bid you greetings,” the wizened sage says with a shallow bow. “Our esteemed ruler,the Ruby Prince, recently released me from his service, which has freed me to learn more about a little-known organization to which I belong: the Jeweled Sages, protectors of Osirion’s history and chroniclers of its past glories. Quite by accident, I found myself initiated into this group, and have long believed myself to be its sole surviving member. Each sage in the group possesses a unique jewel—a priceless artifact that contains memories of Osirion’s golden age.” He pauses as if considering how to express his thoughts
“For many years, I have sought news of any other members of the Jeweled Sages. My agents recently learned of the Diamond Sage, whom they traced to the city of Eto in the Osirian Desert. At the same time, I received word from a reliable source that several other jewels in the vicinity. I ask that you travel to Eto, negotiate with my contact in the city for his assistance, and then use what you learn to find the Diamond Sage and these lost jewels.”
Venture-Captain Balentiir frowns and adds, “This contact has tried to remain anonymous, but we suspect he is none other than Grandmaster Torch. If you’ve heard of him—or worse, met him—you may know trading favors is his signature. Regardless of Torch’s past treacheries, we need you to deal with him fairly for the information. There is a caravan leaving for Eto in a few hours, so don’t delay.”
Amennekht |
The black haired and yellowed eyed Garundi sits quietly when Balentiir introduces the sage. Grateful to be back in his homeland and out of the cold north for a change. He frowns as the window is shuttered as he was enjoying the gentle breeze that kept the room tolerable.
Amennekht watches the sage closely, familiar with the man. At the mention of Grandmaster Torch he smiles remembering his time dealing with him in Kaer Maga.
"يغفر السؤال، معظم المحترم من الحكماء، ولكن البعض الآخر قد ما نعرف حتى الآن من وجود من جواهر؟ أيضا إذا كان من شأنه إرضاء لك للرد؛ إذا كان هذا هو غراند ماستر الشرفاء، هل تعرف ما تفضل سيسعى كتعويض عن المعلومات؟"
Ardisen Greymore |
A handsome, young Chelaxian relaxes near the back of the room. Despite his posture, the youth is listening intently, whilst allowing a viper to run casually up and down his arms. The noble has relinquished his typical fashionable attire in favor of a more appropriate airy outfit, designed for such warm climates. A knowing smile spreads across the gentlemans face as Grandmaster Torch is mentioned and he nods in acknowledgement, his brunette hair rustling from the gesture. Standing from his seat he passes his familiar to another Chelaxian, one who seems weighed down with the nobles collection of books, clothing, supplies and now the viper.
As Amennekht speaks Ardisen turns to gaze towards him, evidently understanding the local tongue he has elected to use. Finally speaking himself, in an eloquent Taldan tongue so as not to exclude any of the other agents who may not speak Osiriani.
"Given my previous dealings with the Grandmaster, I have no doubt that whatever he wants will be something we are not too comfortable parting with."
The enchanter ducks into a bow towards Amenopheus and Venture-Captain Balentiir, adjusting his wayfinder as he does.
"A brief trip through the desert in search of a number of scholars is a welcome reprieve from the chaos of the Worldwound and Jormurdun. I don't imagine we'll have any difficulties."
Despite only being in his late teens, the Chelaxian seems surprisingly confident of both his own abilities and those of a handful of agents he only recently met.
Chasik"Bash" |
A well tanned man stands near the back of the room. Clad in full plate, with dusty brown hair. Strapped to his back, a heavy steel shield, and a pair of warhammers are slung on opposite hips.
He listens to the sage as he talks, and raises an eyebrow as a Society Member speaks in a tongue he is unfamiliar with, with smiles slightly when a young man speaks the Taldane tongue.
Chasik nods at Amenopheus, How long will the caravan take to get to our destination? Also, Is there expected to be any issues or hindrances before we get there?
Quarr |
The gnome listens intently as he begins to shift his ever clattering vials all about his body. Quarr's little fingers grasp at a bottle as he opens the cork on the container, giving it a smell. Content with what he grasped the gnome begins to pour the vial all over inside of his jacket as he smiles at the rest of the party.
As Grandmaster Torch's name is brought up the rest of the party seems to have some sort of recognition to it. Grandmaster Torch? Quarr whispers as he begins to jot some notes down on a journal. I will have to remember to ask about this man as we travel. he seems.....curious
I agree with Chelaxian. This will be a reprieveQuarr says as he finishes pouring the liquid down his jacket, patting it with sloshing noises as a sudden flashback of just a few months ago where the Quarr's last group of pathfinders had a very near death experience gives the gnome a slight shudder. The name is Quarr, it is very nice to meet you all.
Pour Fox's cunning into Sipping Jacket
Amennekht |
"Oh, my apologies, it was never my intent to offend such honorable companions. I had merely assumed that you had knowledge of our fine tongue, and while I cannot blame you for not comprehending its fluid eloquence, for it flows like the Junira, to its fullest, I should have inquired first to what language it would be best for use to converse with."
He gives a polite bow of apology.
Buri Sunwalker |
The desert air, its so nice to be back. Been a while. He thinks smiling.
Young by his race standarts Buri is a very sun tanned dwarf using a well made summer outfit and leathers. He carefully listens to the explanation nodding.
So I will get to meet the famous Grandmaster Torch. Is that an honour or a misfortune?
Ignatius Van Hjorder |
Ignatius shifts uncomfortably in his newly-purchased breastplate. Masterwork quality my left foot! This thing ain't the most comfortable in this heat. He kicks a little at the floor, but his attention is piqued as Torch's name is mentioned.
"Isn't Torch a traitor to the Society? I've heard the tales - claims to look out for the good of Pathfinders while speaking ill of the Decemvirate. Must we deal with this man?" Ignatius looks around the room at his fellow Pathfinders. He hopes for an alternative, but is not surprised if one is not offered up.
"Well, I suppose it may not be him..."
Amennekht |
"The most honorable Grandmaster, has provided much needed information. Were it not for his aid in the past in the distant City of Strangers, I would not be here in my must lovely of homelands this day. You may think he drives a difficult bargain but, as the poets say, 'Gold has little use in the desert, while water is life'. Still as you have most wisely reminded us, he may yet not be the one wee shall deal with."
Ardisen Greymore |
Ardisen nods in agreement with Amennekht.
"I to have benefited from the Grandmasters insight, back home in Absalom. While Torchs motive are questionable, his information is considered reliable."
Realising his manners, the young wizard speaks again to introduce himself.
"Pardon my manners fellow agents, my name is Ardisen Greymore. I do not believe I have had the pleasure of meeting any of you previously. I serve the Society as both an enchanter and something of a socialite. This is Alfonso, my assistant."
Neither of the Chelaxians roles come as much of a surprise the the other Pathfinders. His honeyed words glide from his silver tongue with practised ease and are backed up by a disarming smile.
GM Lithrac |
Quarr, please report to the Discussion thread too.
Amenopheus displays a faint smile for Amennekht, then politely answers in the Taldane language. "Most esteemed servant of the sands, your mind is quick and asks the right questions. As far as I know, very few people are aware of the existance of the jeweled sages. Concerning Grandmaster Torch - if it is indeed the man - he will want something in return. You may mention that he owes me a favor, though I do not know if that will be sufficient."
He nods politely to Chasik, answering his practical question. "The road from Sothis to Eto is one of the most traveled in Garund, so I expect you shouldn't have any trouble there, especially within the safety of a merchant caravan. I would advise you, however, to ward yourself from the sun, heat, and thus dehydration. Many a valiant warrior has succumbed to those enemies instead of a blade."
As Quarr inquires about the Grandmaster of the Shadow Lodge, Venture-Captain Balentiir sighs heavily. “The man is a charming devil to be sure. He always plays one side of a deal against the other, and usually ends up ahead. You’ll recognize him by his burn scars. He suffered some injury that never seems to heal. Whatever you do, never fully trust him.”
When Ignatius raises his voice in protest at the perspective of working with Torch, Balentiir raises his hands in a calming gesture. “I assure that much of the Society shares your feelings of distrust; however, Torch has leverage that we would rather he not use against us. Any violence directed toward him would be revisited on us a hundredfold, so don’t be selfish. Save your vendettas for another day.”
As you are about to leave, Amenopheus addresses a faint nod at Amennekth, pulls a weathered stone from his robes and strikes it once against the wall to break the stone into two crystalline geode halves. He hands one piece to the dervish, instructing him, “If you find one of the jewels of my order or the person known as the Diamond Sage, I ask that you contact me. Concentrate on the stone and speak a message of a few dozen words. I will hear you and respond with further instructions. It will only work once, so keep it safe.”
If you don't have any other questions, we can move on. Make sure to make your purchases now if you need any.
Amennekht |
I'll buy a few spare water-skins, wouldn't want to run out.
"Forgive my great rudeness in my familiarity with the Sapphire sage, me his life be long and prosperous, I neglected the formalities of an introduction. I am called Amennekth, son of Suli-Amenn, warrior of She Who Brings the Dawn. It brings light to my eyes to be honored to be in such good company."
Ardisen Greymore |
Without any further questions and his introduction complete, Ardisen prepares to leave, offering a final smile and nod to their hosts. Once they have left the room he retrieves his viper from Alfonso.
GM Lithrac |
Amenopheus smiles benevolently, in an almost paternalistic manner. "I am well aware of who you are, my son. I personally required for you to be brought into this mission to represent our faction's interest. May the sands favor you."
The journey to Eto is exactly as Amenopheus predicted: short and uneventful. In the morning of the fifth day, you reach your destination. The immense rock walls that ring Eto rise from the horizon like a shimmering mirage that gradually sharpens into focus. The city sits inside an elevated crater with sheer, weathered sides broken only in two places by heavily guarded gates. Long lines of caravans wait in a meandering queue awaiting entrance as officials search their cargos for contraband and calculate taxes. Water sellers, food vendors, and guides march up and down the lines peddling their wares and services to the visitors. Beyond the gates, the main thoroughfares fan out around the various districts of the city before dwindling into the dozens of pathways that flow through the bazaar like the delta of the great River Sphinx.
A bit further, you see a trio of officials going up and down caravans, asking questions, talking a lot, and then eventually getting a small pouch of silver coins... though not in all cases. The merchant with whom you travelled quickly briefs you. "Eto is a hub of trade in Osirion’s interior, and these officials ensure that no one brings dangerous contraband, such as certain drugs for example, into the city. All Osirian relics are documented and taxed; the opening of Osirion to treasure-hunters by the Ruby Prince’s decree stimulates the economy, but the Ministry of Culture ensures that the kingdom receives a cut of all finds and withholds artifacts of special importance. I'm afraid we'll have to part ways now, since I will enter the city with my caravan and you will have to find your own way into it. Good luck, travelers."
Chasik"Bash" |
Chasik nods at the esteemed man, and decides that a few purchases are in order before they venture out on their mission into the unforgiving desert sun/
Buy a hot weather outfit (8gp), waterskin (1gp), and other items because I have to head to work now
Amennekht |
Not trained in slight of hand so just going to put it in my purse with a few other gemstone. This purse I keep tied to a leather thong around my neck. The main purse that contains coins in at my waist in a belt pouch.
Ardisen Greymore |
The journey to Eto, while uneventful, had been pleasant enough. Ardisen had made frequent attempts at small talk with his fellow Pathfinders, discussing previous missions and successes, learning of their skills and abilites and generally being friendly.
Upon arriving outside the city the Chelaxian dismounts, thanking the merchant once again for the transportation. Once the other agents are dismounted, the enchanter opens up a dialogue.
"It seems we're on our own from here on out."
Are there any appropriate Knowledge rolls that can be made about our mission or Eto, Lithrac? Ardisen has every knowledge.
Quarr |
Quarr thanks the man with a small bow as the gnome hops down from the cart, causing a small plume of sand to fly into the air. "Just as I expected. This is going to be aggravating keeping this sand out of all of my elixirs," as he inspects all of his bottles.
Once again drawing an elixir from his pouch the small gnome pours it into his jacket. once completed he grasps at his canteen taking another sip of water.
Looking up from his inspection Quarr sees the inspectors approaching as they part ways with their escort. "Thank you again my friend"
Ignatius Van Hjorder |
While on the road to Eto, Ignatius talks with his fellow pathfinders jovially. Eventually, he addresses the group as a whole. "I apologize for my outburst. Most of the tasks the society has seen fit to send me on have involved little dealing with political intrigues and leverages, instead sending me in to crypts, caverns and dungeons." He swallows hard and wipes sweat from his brow.
"I'm pretty good at reading people, but not so good when opening my mouth. Perhaps I should take an observational role when we meet with Torch."
GM Lithrac |
As you reach the front gates, you are brought to a halt by a Garundi customs officer whose graying beard and tired eyes suggest he’s seen it all and heard every excuse at least a few dozen times.
"Halt there, travelers, state your identity, business in Eto, and whether or not you are carrying Osiriani artifacts."
After a moment or two, the man's eyes seem to glint as he notices something about you. "Where are you all from, travelers?"
Ardisen Greymore |
Ardisen just finishes replying to Ignatius as they reach the front gate.
"Don't worry Ignatius, I've spent most of my life navigating the intrigues of various courts and soirée. Not to mention I've previously had a dealing with Torch."
Sense Motive: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (6) + 2 = 8
While Ardisens comments are true, his self belief and overconfidence hinder his ability to read the intentions of others.
"We're here to meet with a friend, and sadly I don't believe any of us have the pleasure of carryng Osiriani artifacts."
In response to the second question the enchanter quickly takes in the various backgrounds of his associates.
"We're Pathfinders, so we come from numerous locations and have seen countless more. However, I believe my associate Amennekht is from these lands."
Ardisen Greymore |
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (14) + 15 = 29
Ardisen smiles, realising he has the guards ear.
"Well, as I'm sure an observant individual is aware, we Pathfinders travel the whole of Golarion collecting information, lore and artifacts of all manner to publish in our journals. I myself am not long returned from campaigning in the Worldwound, leading a number of my fellow agents against the cultists and demons that prevail there. I'm sure my associates have their own stories they could tell..."
Ardisen leaves a pause for the other members of the group to interject with their own stories and provide an Aid Another bonus if needed.
Chasik"Bash" |
auto-assist with aid, take 10=11
I come to sight see and travel. Its why I joined the Society.
Quarr |
I have joined the society and am traveling so that I may learn as much as I can from the local culture and artifacts all around Golarion.
diplomacy: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 or aid another if necessary
Amennekht |
"I myself have just returned from the mystical city of Kaer Maga. Called by many The City of Strangers. Alas it is good to be arriving again within the domain of the Ruby Prince, may he live forever, far too long have I been absent from our bountiful oasis."
aid: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (1) - 2 = -1 Amennekht seems far more interested in getting in the city than continuing to speak with the guard.
GM Lithrac |
From the amazed glint in his eyes, you guess that you've just made the customs officer's day. "Such exotic locations! My own dream is to travel to the Land of Linnorm Kings once and see this thing called "snow". I find it most intriguing! Oh, by the way my name is Mahu. Welcome to our beautiful city of Eto, may I be of any assistance to you?"
You've just made a friend there, Ardisen!
Ardisen Greymore |
Everyone loves Ardisen.
The enchanter chuckles, recalling his own trip through the Land of the Linnorm Kings with some fondness.
"A pleasure to meet you Mahu, perhaps you can help us. We are looking for a friend of ours named Torch, you'd definately know him if you've seen him. He's badly scarred and keeps company with two orc bodyguards. If you haven't seen him, who would be the right person to ask that has their ear to the ground around here?"
Ardisen Greymore |
"Thankyou Mahu, you have my gratitude. Perhaps the next time I travel to the Lands of the Linnorm Kings I'll see if there is space for you to join us?"
Ardisen extends the man a brief nod, before moving to head into the city.
Amennekht |
"Honorable Greymore, you handled yourself with poise and wisdom in questioning the guard. It is refreshing to see others who may wield words as well as a blade. With any good fortune we should easily locate the White Uraeus."
GM Lithrac |
Mahu waves back, a smile now on his lips. "I sure will! Please come back if you want. If you need anything, I'll be here all day, as well as tomorrow."
You enter the busy streets of Eto, where half of Golarion seems to be present. Keleshite merchants are roaming the dusty streets on their camels loaded with foreign goods, a pair of Mwangi women covered with body painting are sampling the spices of an elderly Osirian tradesman, and travelers of all kind discuss and share tales and news from all over the world. The center of the city is obviously the grand bazaar, where it is said that everything is for sale.
The sprawling bazaar at the heart of Eto is a riot of colorful tents, ramshackle stalls, and haphazardly parked carts and wagons surrounding the only permanent structure, the tall stone Government House home of the
governor Asep Ma. With an influx of foreign explorers fueling economic growth, the city’s merchants, laborers, and artisans can provide nearly everything an adventurer could need for exploring lost ruins and tombs. Nothing in the bazaar comes without a price, though, and the Eto’s inhabitants are renowned for their ability to haggle. During the day, buyers and sellers pack this busy public area, crowding the narrow pathways between shops.
You finally find your way to the White Uraeus. It is a two-story, whitewashed stone structure located in one of Eto’s more upscale districts. A large brass plaque above its door depicts a snake with two “necks” that split from its body, each with its own head. The servants that manage the inn wear immaculately clean clothing and maintain a quiet but cheerful facility. Grandmaster Torch is nowhere to be seen, yet a huking half-orc sits in the common area and spots you as you enter this fine establishment. He nods at you, and points to a door down the hall, underneath which a whiff of steam comes out. Although its exterior is unassuming, the interior of the White Uraeus is richly decorated with panels of gold-veined marble and bubbling fountains in secluded courtyards. Cool breezes carry the scent of blooming desert flowers throughout the clean halls. Two more half-orcs keep watch outside the set of closed doors. After a moment inspecting the visitors, they pull open the doors to reveal a tiled bathing chamber beyond.
“Welcome to Eto, Pathfinders,” rasps Grandmaster Torch as he lounges in a steaming tub. “I didn’t imagine we would meet again under such heart-warming circumstances, yet the White Uraeus certainly knows how to make a traveler comfortable. What can a humble secret monger such as I do for you?” he asks as he leans forward in the tub and flashes a knowing smile.
Ardisen Greymore |
As they depart the guards company, Ardisen responds to Amennekhts comment with a smile.
"Thank you my friend. Sadly, back in my home of Cheliax, words often prove far more dangerous than any blade. But the less said of such things, the better."
As they travel the enchanter takes in the sights and sounds of Eto with passive interest, peaking up as they journey through the more upscale districts and into the bath house itself. As they are introduced to Torch he extends the Grandmaster a bow.
Ardisen met Torch during a relatively recent play of Silent Tide. As always, the enchanter was polite and diplomatic to the Grandmaster.
"Grandmaster Torch, a pleasure to meet you again. Ardisen Greymore at your service."
Ardisen pauses for a moment, hopeful that the information broker recalls their former meet.
"As you rightfully point out, this is quite an establishment, and we don't want to take up more of your valuable time than is absolutely required. With that in mind, you'll excuse my manners if I get straight to the point. We are acting in the employ of the Amenopheus, the Sapphire Sage. He is of the belief that you may know of the location of one of more of his associated Jewelled Sages. We're here in the hope that you'll be willing to share what you know."
GM Lithrac |
Torch chuckles at the mention of Amenopheus, and he doesn't appear to be surprised. "Of course you do. I do know the location of one of his so-called "Jeweled Sage". I will share this information-for a price."
He snaps his fingers to summon one of his bodyguards, who arrives carrying a folded piece of paper. “Let’s see what’s on today’s schedule,” he murmurs as he examines the paper’s contents. “Yes, all of this will do. Consider this my price—all of these tasks completed to my satisfaction in return for what I know of the sages’ jewels. Do we have a deal?” He holds out the paper for you to review it.
Amennekht |
Amennekht bows politely to the scarred man when he enters, letting the silver tongued Chelaxian handle the business arrangements with Grandmaster Torch.
Amennekht looks at the list, carefully reading over the list. Turning to the others, he speaks quietly. "None of these tasks seem too difficult, though I suspect there is more here than is apparent. I believe we should accept his price but, perhaps we could haggle it down to 3 of the 4 tasks?"
Ardisen Greymore |
The enchanter reviews the list with the others, his nose wrinkling momentarily at the prospect of running errands for the Grandmaster, before his trademark smile returns to his face.
"This is quite a list Grandmaster, but as a gesture of goodwill and in exchange for the information we require, the Society will see it done. Is there anything else you can tell us about these tasks or are they as simple as they appear here?"
Ignatius Van Hjorder |
Ingratitude stands back with his arms folded over his chest. He clearly is not happy having to deal with Torch.
Quarr |
Quarr, having never seen the Grandmaster before peers around the group looking at the man in the bath with a puzzled look, then at the list of errands then back at the Grandmaster.
GM Lithrac |
"I believe everything's here. I'm sure you'll be able to learn much from hearsay and rumors in the bazaar. That sounded like a yes, so I'll see you when you're done. You know where to find me."
With these words, he snaps fingers and two of his hulking half-orc bodyguards come to show you out.
If you want to gather some information about your various tasks, you can make a Diplomacy or Knowledge (local) check.
An upcoming holy day of Sarenrae has people remembering how a cleric of the goddess tried to purge the land of evil over a hundred years ago; however, the ruins of the old city beyond the cliff walls still hide shrines to the old faiths, especially the serpent cult of Apep. The serpent god’s slithering children are blessed with the ability to go unnoticed by eyes accustomed to the Dawnflower’s light.
Ardisen Greymore |
Ardisen nods as they depart from Torchs company. Glancing again at the list.
"It seems we have out work cut out for us. I suggest we spilt up and ask around about these people and get a feel for our assignment then meet back up near here and discuss how we wish to approach this. I know some of you likely aren't comfortable with all of this, but we have a job to do."
Ardisen moves off into the crowd and begins to work the people on the street, allowing his usual charm and ettiquette carry him in his attempt to gather information.
Diplomacy: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (5) + 15 = 20
Obviously we're only splitting up to gather information, we'll muster again before we head to complete the first task. When we do meet up Ardisen will share everything up to DC20.
Chasik"Bash" |
Chasik simply nods at Torch as the group accepts his lofty demands.
So, where to first?
Quarr |
Quarr's interest is piqued by the Grandmaster. As the two orcs come to escort him out he gives a deep bow to the man. As he walks to the door with the orcs and the rest of the party he looks to everyone. Doesn't the Grandmaster know that when his skin prunes it is time to get out of the bathwater?
Getting outside of the establishment he looks over the list to see how best to divide the tasks or if it would better to serve completing them as a group.
Knowledge (Local): 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10