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Holy Paragon,
Although the dark history of Thassilon churns beneath the ground, the people of Varisia know the blessings of the light. Your good deeds have left a lasting impression upon that distant land. Every week I receive a tall, orderly stack of letters, each correspondence a report of another good deed or promise to combat evil whenever it rears its loathsome head. Not only are the followings of the Empyreal Lords growing in Magnimar, but our divine message has even touched the hearts of a few of those who walk Riddleport’s streets.
Varisia may have embraced the good fight, but Golarion remains an immense place with limitless potential for both good and evil. As we consolidate our gains in Magnimar and the other cities, we must understand that victory in Varisia merely represents the first step in a great journey. Should the society’s focus shift to other lands, be prepared to follow their gaze and carry our vision to new realms. It is fortunate that the Paracountess Zarta Dralneen suffered setbacks in the past year, as it provided us an opportunity to do good where her tainted touch would otherwise extend. Even so, do not underestimate her as she recovers from these self-inflicted misfortunes; she remains a canny manipulator and maintains a powerful range of resources.
For now focus on the most imminent and eminent danger: the cult of Lissala. While many Varisians are ready to defend our holy cause, we must rise to the challenge of stopping this evil before it realizes its full power. The Pathfinder Society has nobly accepted this difficult task—truly a sign that our enlightened philosophy is taking root—and you must be the shining paragon of holiness leading the offensive.
May the light be victorious,
Ollysta Zadrian
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At worst it means we're joining up with the Andorans. Which wouldn't be too bad. They seem like a nice bunch, just a little too quick to kill most of the time.. often... at the drop of a hat.
At the drop of a hat?
They often drop the hat themselves, with the head still in it.
While my dedication to bringing the teachings of The Lady to those who haven't heard her words is unwavering, it is nice to see progress being made.
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At worst it means we're joining up with the Andorans. Which wouldn't be too bad. They seem like a nice bunch, just a little too quick to kill most of the time.. often... at the drop of a hat.At the drop of a hat?
They often drop the hat themselves, with the head still in it.
While my dedication to bringing the teachings of The Lady to those who haven't heard her words is unwavering, it is nice to see progress being made.
Many an Andoran adventurers, have I the Great Rogar Stonehand partied with. Whether its a barrel of ale or a barrel of Goblins, the fightin's good with dem around.
However, their attempts to influence the Silver crusade has me beard in a tussle. Been combin' out knots since I got me missive. We are the light against the dark, the truth that good exists and it is coming to save you, whether you be a beautiful dwarven lass trapped in a dreadful drow dungeon or a weak, old merchant set upon by bandits, we'll be there. It shouldn't matter who or what you are or where you're from, if you need help. We'll be there.
Andoran be tryin' to make being Good, political. That ain't good.
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Holy Lady Zadrian
I am new in the service of the Silver Crusade, but I can promise you that my brother and myself will be doing all in our power to thwart the evil plans of the Lissalans.
I have seen much depravity in the lands of Golarion and faced down some great evils. No doubt there will be more and I will face them with my sword and my shield and my love of Iomedae.
As for other factions. Their motives are not the same as ours, but many have simple ans true motives. I have not seen Andorans to be anything more than freedom loving folk. As for Chelaxians, well there nation is infested with devils and the evil that comes with them. One day their reckoning will come. Perhaps one day soon.
Nonetheless I will work with all other Pathfinders. If their ideology is different to mine then I will strive to be the better man.
Yours faithfully
Valard Amberge
Devout sword of Ioemdae
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At the drop of a hat?They often drop the hat themselves, with the head still in it.
"That... shouldn't be funny.. those are people that... died...horribly...
Its hard to deal with very bad people. I'm really not sure what else we're supposed to do with them. Getting out of prison is easy. If you're already so evil that you're sacrificing people to demons I don't think talking to them will change their mind. I haven't QUITE gotten the hang of turning people into small fuzzy creatures yet. Being a squirrel isn't that bad, and it should keep them out of trouble.
While my dedication to bringing the teachings of The Lady to those who haven't heard her words is unwavering, it is nice to see progress being made.
She seems nice, but I'm still trying to get a hang of worshiping something you can't see or feel. My own spiritual training was a little more .. immersion based.
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Hmm, interestin' to see my concerns are shared by others. I wonder if our esteemed Venture Captain would be so kind as to address this matter and put it to rest. Unless, of course, the old saying about "silence speaking volumes" applies here.
The good folks from Cheliax have been looking into the matter, and the Decemvirate themselves have issued an apology for allowing the Andoren spies to attempt to subvert not only the Silver Crusade missive but also those of most other factions as well (except Taldor apparently has good enough spies to prevent this). Fortunately, you guys in the Silver Crusade are too smart to fall for this Andoren scheme!
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RPG Superstar 2009 Top 32, 2010 Top 8
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Don't rise to the bait, friend Doyle!
Did not the Lady stand with the Prince of Lies himself to bind the god Rovaraug?
Does not Cheliax still have those who honor the Inheritor?
While one should always be cautious of treating with the followers of the Pit, how can we bring them Her love if we're always cutting them down?
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Nice try, but we're not turning on each other as long as we're united against you.
I dunno Mr. Green Faith guy, I'm with Dexios on this one. I've seen with my own two eyes, and may Abadar's truth-telling fail to light upon me if it isn't just so, Andoren agents engaging in wanton murder, assassinations to glorify Maldris's political agenda, multiple acts of cannibalism (by the definition of eating sentient beings though not the same species), acts of blatant vandalism, unprovoked theft (one time stealing the merchant's license from a legitimate and accredited shop with no provocation), rousing angry hate mobs and causing riots in neutral and innocent cities like Sothis, and reckless abandoment of so-called "liberated slaves" to fates far worse than the slavery from which they "freed" them in name only.
If Ms. Zarta gave me missions like those, I think I'd have to leave my faction. She talks a good game about being really sketchy, but she's something of a softy deep down--she often gives missions like "show that order has its place by helping your fellow Pathfinders succeed on their own missions" or "help your fellow Pathfinders get past the checkpoint you all need to sneak past by offering this gold I've enclosed to the inspector".
Did not the Lady stand with the Prince of Lies himself to bind the god Rovaraug?
Absolutely! Sarenrae is awesome! She's strong and powerful and she knows how to work together and get the job done when something like Rovagug is the problem. I know some people from Andoran who want to free the Rough Beast because they think any form of slavery is an abomination! Is that not crazy? Having the power to affect your goals and beliefs is pretty important. Sarenrae kicks butt, and so do her followers. I'll fight alongside a Sarenrite paladin any day. Shizuru too. I mean, Irori is really my favorite anyway, not Asmodeus.
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Thank you kindly for the information. But please don't be offended if I wait for confirmation from our Venture Captain. Chain of command. I'm sure you understand.
The good folks from Cheliax have been looking into the matter, and the Decemvirate themselves have issued an apology for allowing the Andoren spies to attempt to subvert not only the Silver Crusade missive but also those of most other factions as well (except Taldor apparently has good enough spies to prevent this). Fortunately, you guys in the Silver Crusade are too smart to fall for this Andoren scheme!
Ayye, I be agreein' with Kilgrave over here, 'til it comes from Ol' Zadrian herself, I'll be a bit wary around my Andoran compatriots.
I'll give ya benefit of the doubt, Fasch, and trust ya aren't a secret Andoran spy planted in Cheliax, but all this distrust has me beard a shakin'. Simpler times when we all worked together for the dear ol' Society.
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Thank you kindly for the information. But please don't be offended if I wait for confirmation from our Venture Captain. Chain of command. I'm sure you understand.
The good folks from Cheliax have been looking into the matter, and the Decemvirate themselves have issued an apology for allowing the Andoren spies to attempt to subvert not only the Silver Crusade missive but also those of most other factions as well (except Taldor apparently has good enough spies to prevent this). Fortunately, you guys in the Silver Crusade are too smart to fall for this Andoren scheme!Ayye, I be agreein' with Kilgrave over here, 'til it comes from Ol' Zadrian herself, I'll be a bit wary around my Andoran compatriots.
I'll give ya benefit of the doubt, Fasch, and trust ya aren't a secret Andoran spy planted in Cheliax, but all this distrust has me beard a shakin'. Simpler times when we all worked together for the dear ol' Society.
I don't mind that at all, Mr. Dwarf Guy. Considering the other stuff Andoran has done, that's a reasonable concern
(OOC: Fasch appears to be a waifish Varisian-ish girl in her tweens, so she's probably older than she looks if she passed the tests to become a Pathfinder)
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Welcome lady of Cheliax, and thank you for your information. Are you here to join the Silver Crusade, or learn more about the worship of Sarenrae? I will be happy to assist you with either task. Or perhaps you are here for some other reason? You are correct that Pathfinders must work together - even if our means differ greatly.
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Welcome lady of Cheliax, and thank you for your information. Are you here to join the Silver Crusade, or learn more about the worship of Sarenrae? I will be happy to assist you with either task. Or perhaps you are here for some other reason? You are correct that Pathfinders must work together - even if our means differ greatly.
*Fasch chuckles.*
Lady of Cheliax? Actually, I'm from Kaer Maga, though I do work for Ms. Zarta.
Anyway, just came to tell you about Andoran, friendly wings guy. I was the first one to alert everyone about this whole Andoran business yesterday.
But sure, I like stories about Sarenrae--particularly the time she caged up Rovagug when she was working together with Asmodeus. That seemed like an epic fight! Here's some other Sarenrae stories I know--
(OOC: Knowledge Religion )
Know any other good ones? Anyway, I wouldn't want to overstay my welcome. It seems some people here like Mr. Green Faith guy aren't big fans of my faction.
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*bows deeply* I have been honored to aid in the cause.
That being said I need to speak to my coordinator about my next few assignments. I have spent the better part of 6 months knee deep in biting cold doing everything from running through canyons avoiding mammoth stampedes to fighting off altitude sickness in the wall of heaven and I feel ready for a change in scenery. I worry my venture coordinator just finds it amusing to strand us in lands where no one speaks the language. Luckily my work in the distant land of Goka seems to be making progress and this Braid of 1000 Masters seems to hold promise for exploration beyond the worlds frigid snowdrifts. I know that this puts my path far afield of Varisia and the troubles looming therein but the light of the Crusade must be carried to all corners of Golarion and with any luck we may win some allies to help combat this oncoming storm.
Gatekeeper of Oblivion,
Akram Alhazrad
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Don't rise to the bait, friend Doyle!
Did not the Lady stand with the Prince of Lies himself to bind the god Rovaraug?
Uhmmm....
Yes?
Hey.. I'm new at this. They didn't have churches back home.
Does not Cheliax still have those who honor the Inheritor?
Sure, In prison.
While one should always be cautious of treating with the followers of the Pit, how can we bring them Her love if we're always cutting them down?
Like i said, haven't QUITE gotten the hang of turning people into squirrels yet...
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I dunno Mr. Green Faith guy, I'm with Dexios on this one. I've seen with my own two eyes, and may Abadar's truth-telling fail to light upon me if it isn't just so, Andoren agents engaging in wanton murder, assassinations to glorify Maldris's political agenda, multiple acts of cannibalism (by the definition of eating sentient beings though not the same species), acts of blatant vandalism, unprovoked theft (one time stealing the merchant's license from a legitimate and accredited shop with no provocation), rousing angry hate mobs and causing riots in neutral and innocent cities like Sothis, and reckless abandoment of so-called "liberated slaves" to fates far worse than the slavery from which they "freed" them in name only.
I'm sure that every word of that is true. I'm equally sure that the entire thing is false. I've helped free some of those slaves...don't ask my why Andorrans don't get a set of lock-picks with the membership card.. they've been grateful to be released. Andorrans dislike slavery because they care about people, and people being chained up or kept in place is a strait-forward problem that's easy to fix.
If Ms. Zarta gave me missions like those, I think I'd have to leave my faction. She talks a good game about being really sketchy, but she's something of a softy deep down--she often gives missions like "show that order has its place by helping your fellow Pathfinders succeed on their own missions" or "help your fellow Pathfinders get past the checkpoint you all need to sneak past by offering this gold I've enclosed to the inspector".
You're working towards spreading Cheliax, where a wealthy few own other people and have them beaten them if they don't work hard enough and then kill them if they try to leave. It doesn't matter how nice you're being about it, that's what you're trying to do.
I understand the good you can do with an orderly society where everyone works according to the common well being instead of everyone scrambling to take as much as they can from everyone else. No one that's ever seen the real thing can do anything but shudder in horror at the mockery of a perfect society you're forcing together with fear and blood.
For example, I'm not at all upset if Mr. Malrdis had spies "intercept" the message because I don't care if he knows what we're doing. WE don't need to hide our actions from the world, especially from our closest allies in the society.
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I dunno Mr. Green Faith guy, I'm with Dexios on this one. I've seen with my own two eyes, and may Abadar's truth-telling fail to light upon me if it isn't just so, Andoren agents engaging in wanton murder, assassinations to glorify Maldris's political agenda, multiple acts of cannibalism (by the definition of eating sentient beings though not the same species), acts of blatant vandalism, unprovoked theft (one time stealing the merchant's license from a legitimate and accredited shop with no provocation), rousing angry hate mobs and causing riots in neutral and innocent cities like Sothis, and reckless abandoment of so-called "liberated slaves" to fates far worse than the slavery from which they "freed" them in name only.I'm sure that every word of that is true. I'm equally sure that the entire thing is false. I've helped free some of those slaves...don't ask my why Andorrans don't get a set of lock-picks with the membership card.. they've been grateful to be released. Andorrans dislike slavery because they care about people, and people being chained up or kept in place is a strait-forward problem that's easy to fix.
I'm guessing you've never seen the underbelly of Andoran then. I've seen what the Lumber Consortium does to the people living in those little towns, not slaves only by a technicality that would make a devil grin ear to ear. They have to buy things from a company store and rent their homes from the company land, with the prices fixed in tandem with their wages. And they can never save enough money to pay to relocate. It's great for propaganda though, that they can say these people "technically" aren't slaves.
Oh, that was a weird mission...Venture Captain Brackett assured me that there would be no cannibalism, even though it was in Andoran. The two of us had a bet before the mission--if there was no cannibalism, I wouldn't talk about Andoren cannibalism again and if there was, he agreed to acknowledge it and warn the next few sets of Pathfinders about it. Turns out, there was plenty...
But I'm wandering about all willy nilly instead of sticking to the point--sorry!
If Ms. Zarta gave me missions like those, I think I'd have to leave my faction. She talks a good game about being really sketchy, but she's something of a softy deep down--she often gives missions like "show that order has its place by helping your fellow Pathfinders succeed on their own missions" or "help your fellow Pathfinders get past the checkpoint you all need to sneak past by offering this gold I've enclosed to the inspector".You're working towards spreading Cheliax, where a wealthy few own other people and have them beaten them if they don't work hard enough and then kill them if they try to leave. It doesn't matter how nice you're being about it, that's what you're trying to do.
I understand the good you can do with an orderly society where everyone works according to the common well being instead of everyone scrambling to take as much...
Mr. Green Faith guy, I'm sorry if I peg you wrong here, but have you ever lived your life in need? I was an orphan in a city that values freedom, and let me tell you something--it sucks to be free and alone. It's worse than being a slave--at least a slave has someone who automatically feeds, clothes, and cares about them. Anyway, I had to steal to survive, and Andoren sorts often sneered at me or made threats on my life. To them, I was free, so I wasn't worth their interest like a slave would be.
One day, a super-awesome archer from Cheliax caught me trying to lift a few coins. He was also an orphan, who had trained in archery at a monastery. He paid hundreds of gold of his own money to have me sent on a caravan and raised at his monastery. He had no other motive, he just did it. And in Cheliax, my drive to be better and stronger allowed me to succeed and thrive. Cheliax is a place for those who are willing to work super-hard to improve their lot in life. It isn't given to them automatically like the society you describe--that sounds like some kind of Bachuan communism to me, though you don't look Tien. You need drive and talent. And the people who don't have those are taken care of as well, not neglected and left behind. I've seen an Andoren Pathfinder free a bunch of slaves illegally and just leave them in the city where they were freed and were now fugitives who would be executed if caught, with no escape plan. Maybe there are some Andorens who are not like this, but most of them just seem to like the idea of making themselves feel fuzzy by claiming they're helping through flashy rhetoric and displays of freeing slaves more than the boring aftermath required to actually help those people.
(OOC: This character started as the random optional NPC of the same name in City of Strangers, and the party Cheliax character did annotate off 250 gp from his chronicle sheet to send her to a good home where she could train in archery)
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I dunno Mr. Green Faith guy, I'm with Dexios on this one. I've seen with my own two eyes, and may Abadar's truth-telling fail to light upon me if it isn't just so, Andoren agents engaging in wanton murder, assassinations to glorify Maldris's political agenda, multiple acts of cannibalism (by the definition of eating sentient beings though not the same species), acts of blatant vandalism, unprovoked theft (one time stealing the merchant's license from a legitimate and accredited shop with no provocation), rousing angry hate mobs and causing riots in neutral and innocent cities like Sothis, and reckless abandoment of so-called "liberated slaves" to fates far worse than the slavery from which they "freed" them in name only.I'm sure that every word of that is true. I'm equally sure that the entire thing is false. I've helped free some of those slaves...don't ask my why Andorrans don't get a set of lock-picks with the membership card.. they've been grateful to be released. Andorrans dislike slavery because they care about people, and people being chained up or kept in place is a strait-forward problem that's easy to fix.
If Ms. Zarta gave me missions like those, I think I'd have to leave my faction. She talks a good game about being really sketchy, but she's something of a softy deep down--she often gives missions like "show that order has its place by helping your fellow Pathfinders succeed on their own missions" or "help your fellow Pathfinders get past the checkpoint you all need to sneak past by offering this gold I've enclosed to the inspector".You're working towards spreading Cheliax, where a wealthy few own other people and have them beaten them if they don't work hard enough and then kill them if they try to leave. It doesn't matter how nice you're being about it, that's what you're trying to do.
I understand the good you can do with an orderly society where everyone works according to the common well being instead of everyone scrambling to take as much...
For example, I'm not at all upset if Mr. Malrdis had spies "intercept" the message because I don't care if he knows what we're doing. WE don't need to hide our actions from the world, especially from our closest allies in the society.
Aye, Doyle ya bein' a right bit rude to the little lass, don' ya think. Remember our tenants of the Crusade; Though each faith has its own methodologies and philosophies on how to go about helping the weak and destroying evil, they all share the same primary goal of making the world a better place.
Fasch here has given no sign that she seeks to wreak havoc and throw down society. Ya be prosecutin' 'em for a way of life, only because ya disagree.
We have to move away from this fightin' and seek to spread the Light of the Crusade to all corners of the Inner Sea, whether that be the Lumber Consortium in Andoran, to assisting slaves in Cheliax, if they need the help. Remember though, we aren't above the law, just because we don't agree that slaves are property, it'd be stealing all the same to free them. This is an abhorrent thought to many and Torag's hammer doesn't strike the anvil so sweetly to the sound of that but above all my God is the god of Community and if slaves of any nation are happy with their community than it'd be against my deity to free them, to rip them away.
@Fasch, I respect what ya been through, being an orphan ain't an easy life, ya stronger from it and ya're right to respect the Chelish life for saving you.
@Doyle Its hard keeping true to the code of the Crusade, the amount of evil in the world be blindin' at times. We lose ourselves to the fight, meself included lost my way in the struggle against evil and pray every day that Torag forgives me for the mistakes I've made and I know he has accepted my Atonement. May we of the Crusade never lose in the fight against evil but above all never forget our goal isn't to eradicate evil but to spread good.
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I like how the Chel is tryin' to sow dissension in the ranks. Won't work. Go back to worshippin' that devil prince o' yers. If Andoren spies upended yer missives, er mine fer that matter, all the better it was them, instead o' you.
The most hilarious part? The Chelish prolly aren't mad because missions and goals were subverted ... but because they weren't the ones to do it.
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I like how the Chel is tryin' to sow dissension in the ranks. Won't work. Go back to worshippin' that devil prince o' yers. If Andoren spies upended yer missives, er mine fer that matter, all the better it was them, instead o' you.
The most hilarious part? The Chelish prolly aren't mad because missions and goals were subverted ... but because they weren't the ones to do it.
I knew the Andorens were chaotic, but if those Andoren drinking buddies of yours are trying to convince you that Irori is a devil prince now just because he is lawful, they're just making fools of themselves. I assure you they are quite mistaken. I'd be happy to tutor you about the Masters of Masters as much as you like. I think you'll find he has more in common with Torag than some of those rabble-rousing deities Andorens worship like Milani.
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I'll add that to a very long list of problems I have with the lumber consortium. It may in fact be the seedy underbelly of the nation of Andor, but its the Head, heart, body and soul of Cheliax. They're trying to move away from that sort of behavior while you're literally enshrining it.
Thats a lot of money right?
Look, one act of charity from one chelaxian does not somehow mean that cheliax is good while one evil act from people selflessly trying to get other people out of a bad situation means that they're bad. Its inane. How would you pick which one act was the one you judged by?
Not every deity is trying to help the weak and oppose evil. Some Of them are trying to exploit the weak and thus ARE evil. Don't tell me you haven't had to break up a cult of some demon worshipers or an evil church... I can't seem to get sent anywhere else. I can definitely see why Mengekare banned temples...
And just maybe Rovagog wouldn't be in such a hurry to get out if he'd been tossed somewhere that WASN'T a fiery molten inferno.
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Brothers, Sisters, our view point is skewed, we see evil in the hearts of every nation because we are sent to eradicate it. How often do we stick around, helpin' those hurt by the evil cults and temples.
All this talk of good and evil nations, factions. We aren't lookin' at each other as companions anymore nor as a Society. Division has us at each other's throat. I was there in the Fortress of the Nail, accompanied by mostly Cheliax friends. I was there, breaking the law to support my community.
Imagine the loss of Ol' Zadrian, it'd be cripplin', she showed us how far an organization of good can change the world, if she was gone we would lose our beacon and if their was even a sliver of hope I know I could count on the same Chelish, Shadow lodge, Lantern's. They'd join me in helping recover our Light.
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I knew the Andorens were chaotic, but if those Andoren drinking buddies of yours are trying to convince you that Irori is a devil prince now just because he is lawful, they're just making fools of themselves. I assure you they are quite mistaken. I'd be happy to tutor you about the Masters of Masters as much as you like. I think you'll find he has more in common with Torag than some of those rabble-rousing deities Andorens worship like Milani.Ms. Fasch, I'll have to ask you to extend some forgiveness to my brothers in arms for their harsh tone. Cheliax has garnered a certain, shall we say "negative", reputation due to its association with the forces of Hell. That reputation can make it difficult for even upstandin' individuals to extend common courtesy to a visitor to our hall, even Chelaxian citizen who is obviously a student of the Master of Masters, such as yourself.
I believe we have some tea 'round here somewhere. If you'll be so kind as to find yourself a comfortable chair, I'll put the kettle on. We can have a nice discussion about the gods and and other such things that might catch our fancy. I've got time for company, as it seems word from our Venture Captain might take a bit...
Ohmygosh I'd love some tea! I wouldn't want to be a drain on your resources though, since I'm not a faction member. Let me offer something in return--I'll get some of the rare tea I found in an abandoned Tien monastery in the mountains--there's not much left, as I shared what I didn't send Ms. Zarta with all the other Pathfinders so they could impress the Tien nobility when they needed, but it seems only right, as a fellow brother of your Silver Crusade is the one who helped me in the first place to pick out the best leaves of the bunch to take back!
*Fasch reaches into her pouch and takes out a small packet of rare tea leaves, then settles down to chat with Jedidah about religion (+6), history (+6), and if it comes up, surprisingly detailed accounts of experimental use of magic without training (+22).*
Imagine the loss of Ol' Zadrian, it'd be cripplin', she showed us how far an organization of good can change the world, if she was gone we would lose our beacon and if their was even a sliver of hope I know I could count on the same Chelish, Shadow lodge, Lantern's. They'd join me in helping recover our Light.
You could count on me to join in on an adventure to help Ollysta Zadrian. She seems like a nice lady from all my dealings with her--she even gave medicine to an orphanage in the first mission I ever had (the Andoran member of our team wanted to send the children onto the streets and "free" them to a life of neglect because the orphanage keeper drank alcohol though; then he started attacking the poor old lady unprovoked because she was ugly. When we asked him why, the Andoran barbarian really said "She's so ugly, she must be evil."). And besides, anything strong enough to threaten a paladin as awesome as Ollysta Zadrian would probably be a totally awesome adventure!
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Ohmygosh I'd love some tea! I wouldn't want to be a drain on your resources though, since I'm not a faction member. Let me offer something in return--I'll get some of the rare tea I found in an abandoned Tien monastery in the mountains--there's not much left, as I shared what I didn't send Ms. Zarta with all the other Pathfinders so they could impress the Tien nobility when they needed, but it seems only right, as a fellow brother of your Silver Crusade is the one who helped me in the first place to pick out the best leaves of the bunch to take back!
*Fasch reaches into her pouch and takes out a small packet of rare tea leaves, then settles down to chat with Jedidah about religion (+6), history (+6), and if it comes up, surprisingly...
Well now that's right kind of you young lady. Haven't had Tien tea in ages, unless you count the time I had tea at that temple in the crazy Tien tapestry that was hangin' in the headquarters last year.
[[Jedidiah pours tea for two (though the tray has more cups), and sits across from Fasch. He is quite comfortable speaking of such things as religion (+7), the great beyond (planes +6), arcana (+5), and the underground (dungeoneering +5). He keeps up with other subjects as well such as the wilds (nature +2) and local events (+2). He seems to be quite the student of human nature (sense motive +16) and almost supernaturally perceptive (+21).]]
Oh I loved that tapestry! So many fun missions--so many secret carvings of different deities. I think it's still there, isn't it? I heard from a friend that Amara Li wants to figure out how to let it be a free teleport to wherever we want for the whole Society. Nice lady that Amara Li.
(OOC: In terms of studying human nature (+18) and perceptiveness (+27) he finds Fasch to be equally adept. She's very interested in the great beyond but most of her information about it are simple folk stories or misremembered snippets that wizards told her (no ranks).)
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Oh I loved that tapestry! So many fun missions--so many secret carvings of different deities. I think it's still there, isn't it? I heard from a friend that Amara Li wants to figure out how to let it be a free teleport to wherever we want for the whole Society. Nice lady that Amara Li.
(OOC: In terms of studying human nature (+18) and perceptiveness (+27) he finds Fasch to be equally adept. She's very interested in the great beyond but most of her information about it are simple folk stories or misremembered snippets that wizards told her (no...
Interesting conversation aside, I can't shake the feeling that you have another motive for visiting the Silver Crusade other than passing along a message from the Decemvirate. I don't think that motive is Society business - perhaps something more personal.
I assume you've heard the rumors of the Decemvirate bein' a might upset with all of the disruptions caused by this faction business. So upset that they're lookin' at expellin' the members of a faction or two to send a message to the others. Some rumors point to those with a strong allegiance to Cheliax being a prime target.
You strike me as a very sharp young lady, with a passion for the Society and its work. Somethin' you would hate to lose access to, should the worst come to pass. I'm thinkin' you might be visiting us to see if we are someone you could work with should that eventuality occur.
Of course its all rumors, and I could be readin' too much in to it all. Wouldn't be the first time. You could just be here for an afternoon of conversation, and a spot of tea. Would you care for more tea?
*Fasch nods and holds her cup up to the kettle.*
"You're pretty smart. Out on adventures, the Silver Crusade people I've met have seemed pretty reliable and trustworthy, some of the best of the best. I'm not saying you're right, but if you are, some of what I've seen in here today might be giving me second thoughts. I'm being honest with you, despite what Mr. Green Faith guy says, when I tell you what I've seen from Andoran and their lawless and barbaric agents...Maybe Ollysta Zadrian and the people I met in the Silver Crusade who were really nice and reasonable weren't good examples of the organization as a whole and there's really a strong current of people like Mr. Green Faith guy and Mr. Thinks Irori is a Devil Prince guy, so maybe I would not be welcome here."
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*Fasch nods and holds her cup up to the kettle.*
"You're pretty smart. Out on adventures, the Silver Crusade people I've met have seemed pretty reliable and trustworthy, some of the best of the best. I'm not saying you're right, but if you are, some of what I've seen in here today might be giving me second thoughts. I'm being honest with you, despite what Mr. Green Faith guy says, when I tell you what I've seen from Andoran and their lawless and barbaric agents...Maybe Ollysta Zadrian and the people I met in the Silver Crusade who were really nice and reasonable weren't good examples of the organization as a whole and there's really a strong current of people like Mr. Green Faith guy and Mr. Thinks Irori is a Devil Prince guy, so maybe I would not be welcome here.
I had heard there was an agent of Cheliax here spreading foul lies about Andoran, so I came to look in myself. And sure enough here you are. Seriously, you spout off a bunch of hate against Andoran and you expect people to take you seriously. Let me see if I heard correctly.
I heard that you claimed that Major Maldriss gave orders to his agents to engage in cannibalism, if you can provide some proof of this (OOC: like which scenario) I might have to have words with my CO. If you can provide no such proof I must ask you to desist with such lies and slander.
I also heard that you attempted to hold up the Lumber Consortium as good examples of Andorans. As one who has escaped from under the boot heel of the Consortium's oppression I can say that some, though not all by an stretch, of the stories about them are true. Trying to say that they are exemplary citizens of Andoran is a LIE! They are an example of how laws and orderliness can be used as a means to enforce tyranny, a lesson in why the good of the people must come before the order of Law.
To the accusation that we are lawless, I can only proudly claim that I am gladly lawless when the situation calls for it. As for barbarism, last I checked Andoran has all the trappings of civilization.
In defense of the Silver Crusade, I would suggest that there are many who assume that any and all who work for the cause of Cheliax serve Asmodeus. As opposed to jumping to conclusions of whether or not you are welcome, perhaps you should strive to educate people. Bring them to understand that you follow Irori and not Asmodeus and perhaps they will cease to accuse you of being a worshiper of the Prince of Devils.
Stops his rant and takes a moment to compose himself, feeding the falcon perched on his shoulder a strip of meat and scritching her head as he waits for any reply.
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*Fasch nods and holds her cup up to the kettle.*
"You're pretty smart. Out on adventures, the Silver Crusade people I've met have seemed pretty reliable and trustworthy, some of the best of the best. I'm not saying you're right, but if you are, some of what I've seen in here today might be giving me second thoughts. I'm being honest with you, despite what Mr. Green Faith guy says, when I tell you what I've seen from Andoran and their lawless and barbaric agents...Maybe Ollysta Zadrian and the people I met in the Silver Crusade who were really nice and reasonable weren't good examples of the organization as a whole and there's really a strong current of people like Mr. Green Faith guy and Mr. Thinks Irori is a Devil Prince guy, so maybe I would not be welcome here.
I had heard there was an agent of Cheliax here spreading foul lies about Andoran, so I came to look in myself. And sure enough here you are. Seriously, you spout off a bunch of hate against Andoran and you expect people to take you seriously. Let me see if I heard correctly.
I heard that you claimed that Major Maldriss gave orders to his agents to engage in cannibalism, if you can provide some proof of this (OOC: like which scenario) I might have to have words with my CO. If you can provide no such proof I must ask you to desist with such lies and slander.
I also heard that you attempted to hold up the Lumber Consortium as good examples of Andorans. As one who has escaped from under the boot heel of the Consortium's oppression I can say that some, though not all by an stretch, of the stories about them are true. Trying to say that they are exemplary citizens of Andoran is a LIE! They are an example of how laws and orderliness can be used as a means to enforce tyranny, a lesson in why the good of the people must come before the order of Law.
To the accusation that we are lawless, I can only proudly claim that I am gladly lawless when the situation calls for it. As for barbarism, last I...
"Ah, it seems that Andoren agents will always come to muck things up eventually. No peace or order can be good enough to last," Fasch sighs, "Did I say Maldris ordered the cannibalism? I told you what I saw Andoran agents doing. That's nothing but the truth. Now what do I know for sure that he ordered? Well, he did order a series of killings, one of which was for no other reason than to protect the details of his extramarital affairs with a married woman that would hurt his political ambitions."
"Anyway, Jedidah, it was good talking to you, and I recognize that I have no right to ask this Andoren to leave here, but I can't stay comfortable knowing that he might have a kill order on me or something. I've seen Andoren agents multiple times with kill orders from Maldris against fellow Pathfinders as long as they aren't on the same mission together necessitating Explore Report Cooperate, which I'm not right now, so I'll just take my leave myself. I take my oath to cooperate more seriously, so I wouldn't be able to fight back."
"As an Andoren, I'm sure you'll want the last word. Do feel free."
*She gives a small bow to those who engaged her respectfully and then takes her leave.*
(OOC: If anyone has Sense Motive, Fasch isn't lying. Andoran faction PCs really did everything she listed here and in her earlier posts. The scenario isn't relevant when it wasn't there faction mission)
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*Stirring from her woodworking in the corner, a strangely fey looking woman with a holy symbol of Shelyn looks up at Fasch's egress then turns to Doriam.*
That one speaks from experience, but hers has been clouded by what portions of Andoran and its agents she has seen. Maldris is a pompous arrogant blowhard, but he really does believe that what he is doing is helping people across the Inner Sea.
*She turns to introduce herself, smiling.*
I am Lasair Alant, devotee of the Eternal Rose.
I'll admit that some of the missions I've seen when I've been ask to team up with Andoran because Ollysta Zadrian doesn't have a mission for me have been extremely distasteful, but also sometimes in those situations Colson Maldris has asked me to perform an act of righteousness that pleases the Eternal Rose.
I came to the Silver Crusade from the Qadira faction before Ollysta Zadrian founded our glorious crusade, and I am truly grateful for a faction that fits my feelings much better than my former one, but I will say Doriam that from my unique perspective of being sent on Qadiran and Andoran missions as well as Silver Crusade, the Andoran missions were shadier on average than the Qadiran missions, even though the Qadiran missions were issued by Pasha Muhlia al Jakri, who I later discovered to be an assassin!
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I've never denied that my faction engages in what some would call shady activities, assassinations and whatnot. Nor will I defend Major Maldriss from accusations of being pompous, etc.
I will however expect people to provide some proof if they intend to accuse Major Maldriss of engaging in, or suborning, cannibalism. I also get a little hot under the collar when people who have not lived under the yoke of the Lumber Consortium, try to talk as if they understand it.
I can offer response on the comparison as I have only recieved my orders from Major Maldriss.
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I've never denied that my faction engages in what some would call shady activities, assassinations and whatnot. Nor will I defend Major Maldriss from accusations of being pompous, etc.
I will however expect people to provide some proof if they intend to accuse Major Maldriss of engaging in, or suborning, cannibalism. I also get a little hot under the collar when people who have not lived under the yoke of the Lumber Consortium, try to talk as if they understand it.
I can offer response on the comparison as I have only recieved my orders from Major Maldriss.
From what I recall, she only linked Maldris directly to the assassinations. I can confirm he requested assassinations of fellow Pathfinders on two occasions. In the end, the Pathfinders went rogue and conflict with those fellow Pathfinders proved to be inevitable, but Maldris asked for them to be killed before he or any of us knew that fact. As to the cannibalism, the only Andoran cannibal I know is one of the most honorable members of the faction I've ever met. He's actually a pacifist. However, I doubt that's what she was talking about. From what I've heard, sometimes Andoran faction characters in her area like to eat intelligent creatures that aren't human, like dragons and such. Maybe it's a regional meme like bribing for Dexios's area.
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So in other words she is judging a large group by the actions of a small segment of it?
As far as the Major ordering the deaths of certain individuals before others knew they needed to die, I would attribute that to a superior intelligence network. Just sayin' Just cause did not know what they were, does not preclude a limited group from being aware of the threat they would become.
(EDIT: oops forgot to set my alias on this and the previous post, fixed for this one, too late for the other.)
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So in other words she is judging a large group by the actions of a small segment of it?
As far as the Major ordering the deaths of certain individuals before others knew they needed to die, I would attribute that to a superior intelligence network. Just sayin' Just cause did not know what they were, does not preclude a limited group from being aware of the threat they would become.
(EDIT: oops forgot to set my alias on this and the previous post, fixed for this one, too late for the other.)
Having read one such mission, if he knew of the treachery, I think he would have mentioned it in his missive rather than the reasons he gave for killing the Pathfinder in question.
I do find it strange though not unexpected that your main complaint is with the cannibalism and not anything else she claimed. I feel cannibalism, if it is part of that person's culture, is a far lesser issue than the others she raised, though I know that there is a healthy debate about it. She's seen what she's seen. It's up to us to try to show her what's true by example. If only she had met my friend Karnath, an honorable Mwangi barbarian in service of Andoran, or others like him, perhaps she could see that there are many different sorts among the agents of Andoran.
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Where I come from, Lycanthropy is a bit of an issue. Fair or not, Cannibalism bears strong associations with Lycanthropy. Also I consider cannibalism to be wrong.
I must say I am a little insulted by how she responded to my presence. For the record, if I had a kill order, on her or anyone else here, I would not have announced my presence.
Anyway, having defended my faction, and probably making a fool of myself in the process, I should go. She should have had enough time to get far enough away so that I can't possibly be accused of following her, so I will go.
Mr. Killgrave, my sincere apologies for interrupting your conversation with her. It is my hope that you may continue your conversation with her at a later time. Perhaps you can convince her that she is not dealing with a true representation of Andoran. Also please convey my apologies for my, what turned out to be, false accusations. I was misinformed and acted without verifying my information. Meanwhile I will have to keep a weather eye open for signs of certain activities within my Faction.
Ms. Lasant, I thank you for your time, and for making me aware that, while my CO may have the best of intentions, he sometimes also acts rashly and that my orders should bear some consideration. I do admit that I am fairly new to the organization and it will be some time before I will have any influence over the actions of the Andorans as a whole, but in the meanwhile I will be very watchful.
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*A relatively groomed, clean, and tastefully dressed half-orc speaks up*
We should attempt to remember, we should not step between Chelish and Andoran issues. I once thought similarly, sharing a great antipathy towards my fellow Pathfinders who suffer allegiance to that den of devils.
None the less, whatever we feel regarding Cheliax and its foolish decisions to treat with the fell powers, we should remember that we do not assist them in accepting the truth of our Crusade by striking them, manipulating them, or deriding them as their master's do. The Chelaxians I have had the honor of serving beside have been forthright pathfinders, and have ever assisted us. Perhaps they assisted as Amodeus assisted in ancient times against greater threats, but still.
I recently had the opportunity to attempt to convert the replacement ambassador of Cheliax to the truth of our vision. He laughed in my face, but none the less, perhaps I have planted seeds of doubt in the ash coated hellscape that his mind has been forced to be.
As a side note...the Chelaxian faction leader's artistic tastes are highly suspect. I felt the urge to wash my eyes in acid after seeing some of them. Ye gads.
RPG Superstar 2009 Top 32, 2010 Top 8
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Really, do all decisions come down to such broad groups to you? Surely a member of, say the Order of the Nail, announcing he is here to arrest a murderer and felon would be granted a bit more respect than, say a scoundrel who comes in unannounced to kill someone for a vauge reason with no notion of due process.
I do find myself confused. Are you saying that the Inheritor has no welcome in her homeland? Or that Old Deadeye has been driven out? In my work in Chel held lands, even The Lady was recognized in the face she has shown to the people of the west. It is true that the Prince of lies rules over the land, but having tended the weak in Falcon's Hollow while smiting the followers of Urgotha, I find the line no where near as clearly cut.
Cheliax allows the good to grow in their blackened hearts. Whether that be the over confidence of Hell, I cannot say. Andoran prefers to ignore the black in their 'noble hearts' instead finding flaws in others.
Of course I am the last to judge on appearance. Judge the Chels and the Andorans on their individual actions, not on their honeyed words.
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We should attempt to remember, we should not step between Chelish and Andoran issues.I don't see why not. We are here to fight evil after all. Whatever you think of their methods, that still puts us firmly with the Andorans against the chelaxians.
Cheliax is not our principle foe. It is the patient. We do not wage our Crusade against where a border defines a nation begins. Abadar teaches that cities are more then walls, more then flags.
The diabolical laughs when we rush from crushing, perverse tyranny, to merciless quests for 'justice.' Despite the destruction and chaos of Galt, I cannot help but think that the diabolical masters of Cheliax smile at each fall of the final blade, if solely because the ruin of souls seems their stock and trade.
Our goals frequently match with the Andorans since Andorans claim to support freedom, but do not forget that like Taldor, and Cheliax, their loyalty is principly to flag and nation.
Our loyalty is to the Crusade.
I find Cheliax distasteful, in terms of morals, goals, and ethics. I even find their asthetics distressing, with their horrific propensity for curtains and red paint; however, I also acknowledge that the surest way to turn our Chelaxian brothers down the path to final damnation is to abandon them to it.
We are the Crusade, and I may be a low ranking and incompetent member of our grand assembly (some say I study Earth magic because of my propensity for embracing the ground at high speeds), but our goal is to utilize our Society for greater things, not to become embroiled in internecine squabbles, or to descend into the belief that we are somehow incorruptible and therefore condescend to our fellows as being beneath us in 'purity'.
We are a society. We are a civilization onto ourselves. Let others fight to fill the coffers of our Society with gold and acclaim. The treasures Abadar has put aside for us are the truest gold, the souls of our comrades.
We must protect them, no matter how filthy our lucre may be, or else our entire endeavour is a failure.