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Seeing no one else stepping forward to speak Father Grimburrow once again steps forward.
"Pharasma, we praise you for all who have entered into their rest and reached the promised land where you are seen face to face. Give us grace to follow in their footsteps as they followed in the ways of your word. Thank you for the memory of those you have called to yourself: by each memory, turn our hearts from things seen to things unseen, and lead us till we come to the eternal rest you have prepared for your people, in your name we pray."
"Go in peace."
A tall man of Varisian descent spends time speaking with Kendra Lorrimor following the conclusion of the funeral service. You recognize him as the same man that was standing by himself away from the other mourners when you first arrived at the Restlands. He is slender in build, with black wavy hair. The clothing he is wearing appears to you to cost more than any common man could afford in his lifetime. He wears a pair of rings on each hand as well as a grey amulet, that bears an unknown type carving, around his neck. He walks with a grace that seems to show that he know how to use the extravagant looking silver rapier hanging on his right hip. He is smiling during his conversation with Kendra and gives her a light kiss on her left cheek just before he leaves.
Kendra says goodbye to the other mourners and then turns and speaks with you all.
"Please join me at my home for the reading of my father's will. Councilman Vashian Hearthmount will come by in approximately one hour to administer the reading. Until then I would ask that you please join me so that I can learn how my father came to know such an eclectic group."
While Delixia doesn't mind speaking to a crowd, but she didn't feel compelled to speak to a bunch of complete strangers here. She listens and observes those that do speak and nods her head accordingly. She follows along with the appropriate responses when prompted by Father Grimburrow, echoing his sentiments through the process of administering the rites.
"It would be my honor."
Before departing Delixia approaches Father Grimburrow and offers a solemn clasp on the shoulder. "Thank you Father for your words today."
She follows Kendra back to the manor, taking note of the man who arrived and received a kiss before departing. She asks Kendra, "That man that just departed, was he another family member?"
"That man was a former student of my father. They apparently had a falling out at some point but he said he still felt a need to be in attendance today as even they had their differences he still considered my father a friend."
Kendra leads you to her home which until very recently was also the home of her father. The walk is quiet except for the few times she points out areas or buildings of interest along the way.
As you move along the road Kendra points out the homes of Councilman Gharen Muricar , Councilwoman Shanda Faravan , and Councilman Vashian Hearthmount .
You also stop momentarily outside of the Temple of Pharasma at a posting pole where Kendra removes a flyer announcing the date of the funeral procession for her father along with an invitation for all who knew him to come see him off on his final journey. She sheds a few more tears as she carefully rolls up the flyer.
This temple is devoted to Pharasma, the Lady of Graves. Ravengro’s only religious structure, the temple is also the town’s most elaborate building. Its eastern facade displays an intricate stained-glass mural depicting a stern Pharasma judging Count Andachi, one of Tamrivena’s most infamous previous rulers.
The Lorrimor residence is a modest home . You note a moderately sized gargoyle statue on the front stoop as you enter through the front door. Each room you can see is lined with crowded bookshelves holding all manner of things. You are lead to a formal sitting room which seems just as cluttered with books, parchments, maps, and collected items as everywhere else you have looked as you made your way into the home. "Can I get anyone any refreshments while we await the arrival of Councilman Hearthmount?"
Orin cleared his throat softly before muttering "Ale please Miss Kendra."
Orin began to wander slowly around the sitting room, idly glancing at the books.
Staring in wonder at all the books she mumbles, "I could take a lifetime and not finish all these books...." Now realizing her thirst, she smiles at Kendra and says,"I could use some water as well Kendra, thank you."
Delixia shakes her head no. "I'm fine, thank you."
She idly glances about the room and comments, "You pointed out numerous council members on the way here, was your father particular to Councilman Hearthmount."
"Councilman Hearthmount is the elder member of the town council. He has taken it upon himself to act as the defacto leader of the council despite each member having the same responsibilities and powers. My father had no particular dealings with Councilman Hearthmount that I am aware of."
Kendra moves to another room and returns shortly with drinks for you all.
As you look around at the books in the room you see titles such as A History of Post-Tyrant Ustalav and Memories of the Shining Crusade. You also note a shelf full of books all written by the author Alison Kindler, a well known fiction writer and rumored former Pathfinder Society member. You also see books on geography, weather, and wilderness survival.
Once Kendra finishes passing out the requested drinks she takes a seat of her own. "Please tell me a bit about yourself and how you came to know my father well enough to be named in his will? I am curious to see how he came to know such a diverse group of people."
Still looking at the books, Mihaela says, "I met the professior at a village near Karcau. And it just happened by chance I was in the right place at the right time when a wagon broke loose and almost hit him. From his short stay there, he told me briefly of his research and was delighted that I was interested in it." She looks back at Kendra sadly, "I had hoped that when I was finished, i could make my way back to study more with the professor..." Looking back up at the books, "Do you mind if I borrow a book or two?"
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"My history was similar to Kessa. The professor did seem to be fascinated by those that would not simply die. My mother was assaulted by one of these creatures, and the professor was very much interested in my growth and development. He was like a father to me, or at least like an uncle coming by every now and then to check on me."
"Orin. Delixia. How did my father come to know both of you?" she says looking at you both in turn.
"I am sorry Mihaela but I would not feel right loaning any of my father's books out at least not until his will has been read and we learn what his wishes are."
Delixia takes the offered refreshments and takes a seat. She enjoys listening the others speak but as time grows on she seems to grow more and more interested in Kisasi. When Mihaela offers her story Dexlia audibly chuckles out loud and shakes her head. "Unbelievable!" she comments, clearly entertained by the story. She smiles and prepares to speak when Kisasi does instead. She heeds the floor and lets him have his way.
When Kisasi offers the tidbit about his mother she nearly spits her drink out before her. Her smile faces and her lips become a thin line as they press together. Staring at the Dhampir, she narrows her gaze and is oblivious to the rest of his statement.
When Kendra calls her name she snaps out of her gaze like trance. "What? Oh. Right. How did I know him." Her eyes linger on Kisasi for a moment too long before snapping to Kendra with a small smile. "I saved his life about eight years ago now. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time and was nearly overcome in by the largest boar you've ever seen. The creature struck his carriage with such force that I have never seen, surely it must have been some form of evil magic aiding its strength. Anyway, it upended the carriage on the driver and left the professor unprotected unprotected and vulnerable. Luckily I happened to hear the commotion in the distance and was able slay the beast before it took his life. I escorted him back to town and made sure he was alright. We wrote each other occasionaly, but I never expected to be here today. I did what anyone would have done in that situation."
Mihaela's eyes open wide at Delixia's story, "The professor and carriages see to have some sort of fate together." she chuckles.
she nods to Kendra, "Perfectly understandable. I suspect I would have the same feeling if a stranger asked me the same question."
Orin took a long drink of ale before swallowing slowly and standing up, fighting to make eye contact with the young woman. He bit down on his awkwardness as he noted the suffering in her face. 'Just talk, dont think, just talk!'
He took a deep breath, before beginning to speak in a quiet whisper. "When I was a boy I was captured and tortured by mages, for the secrets of my Clan. I escaped, with the aid of my Gods, and returned to reap my vengeance upon them with the power they bestowed upon me. From then on I made it my lifes mission to hunt down those wicked few who would use their powers for evil," His eyes hardened and his voice became strong and clear.
"I was travelling through Ustulav some fifteen or so years ago when I came across a disturbance in a small village. The dead were rising and people were going missing. The Professor, being an honorable man, was aiding the village in their plight. I had been passing through when I learned of the incident, and would have kept going, had it not been for the nature of the undead. They were not the abnormalities that we are use to hearing of, but were the evil minions of a vile and twisted Mage, a Necromancer." He stared straight ahead, his eyes full of fire and hate, a zeal burning bright within.
"I had been some time outside of the village before I learned this, and by that time the Professor had discovered the beasts layer and was seeking to bring it to justice, with the aid of some of his associates. By the time I reached their side, most of them were dead or dying, the Professor and one of his guards being the only two left standing. I aided them in taking down the vile creature, even managing to pull the Professor from harms way, at the last moment. I... it was nothing, I did what any of us gathered would do." He nodded, before taking another sip of ale, his voice becoming soft once again.
"Since that time, I have kept in contact with the Professor through letters and occasional visits. We... we will never see his like again. Rest in peace old friend!"
Kendra seems visibly moved at hearing many of your stories. There are also genuine moments of surprise that cross her countenance as Orin speaks. She stands and gives Kessa a gentle hug and in a whisper for just her ear to hear says "He never said a word about what truly happened with your family. Only that you were a lone survivor of an attack. I am sorry for your loss."
She moves to Orin. "Thank you for standing by and with my father in his time of need. He used to tell a man has to stand for something or he'll fall for anything. And so it now that I see where he chose to stand. Fighting evil so that the world might be a little safer for us all. Now I understand why he researched so much and made all of those trips. The picture of his life away from home is so much more vibrant, moving, and scary than I had thought."
Just as she finishes speaking a loud triple tap from a door knocker is heard and Kendra quickly moves to answer the door. "That must be the councilman. I will be right back."
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Kendra returns a moment later leading Councilman Vashian Hearthmount into the room. The Councilman doesn't acknowledge your presence and you are all able to get the distinct feeling that he is not pleased to have strangers involved in local affairs.
After Kendra has once again taken her seat Councilman Vashian Hearthmount produces a scroll case and holds it up so that everyone is able to clearly see that Professor Petros Lorrimor' personal seal is unbroken. After assuring that everyone has seen the unbroken seal Hearthmount breaks the seal and opens the scroll case. As he does so a small iron key falls out of the tube and clatters loudly onto the table. Undaunted the Councilman continues.
He unfurls a piece of parchment and begins to read in a loud clear voice.
"I, Petros Lorrimor, being of sound mind, do hereby commit to this parchment my last will and testament. Let it be known that, with the exception of the specific details below, I leave my home and personal belongings entire to my daughter Kendra. Use them or sell them as you see fit, my child."
“Yet beyond the bequeathing of my personal effects, this document must serve other needs. I have arranged for the reading of this document to be delayed until all principals can be in attendance, for I have more than mere inheritance to apportion. I have two final favors to ask."
“To my old friends, I hate to impose upon you all, but there are few others who are capable of appreciating the true significance of what it is I have to ask. As some of you know, I have devoted many of my studies to all manner of evil, that I might know the enemy and inform those better positioned to stand against it. For knowledge of one’s enemy is the surest path to victory over its plans."
“And so, over the course of my lifetime, I have seen fit to acquire a significant collection of valuable but dangerous tomes, any one of which in the wrong circumstances could have led to an awkward legal situation. While the majority of these tomes remain safe under lock and key at the Lepidstadt University, I fear that a few I have borrowed remain in a trunk in my Ravengro home. While invaluable for my work in life, in death, I would prefer not to burden my daughter with the darker side of my profession, or worse still, the danger of possessing these tomes herself. As such, I am entrusting my chest of tomes to you, posthumously. I ask that you please deliver the collection to my colleagues at the University of Lepidstadt, who will put them to good use for the betterment of the cause."
“Yet before you leave for Lepidstadt, there is the matter of another favor—please delay your journey one month and spend that period of time here in Ravengro to ensure that my daughter is safe and sound. She has no one to count on now that I am gone, and if you would aid her in setting things in order for whatever she desires over the course of this month, you would have my eternal gratitude. From my savings, I have also willed to each of you a sum of one hundred platinum coins. For safekeeping, I have left these funds with Embreth Daramid, one of my most trusted friends in Lepidstadt—she has been instructed to issue this payment upon the safe delivery of the borrowed tomes no sooner than one month after the date of the reading of this will."
"“I, Petros Lorrimor, hereby sign this will in Ravengro on this first day of Calistril, in the year 4711."
The councilman turns and looks at Kendra once he has finished the reading of the will.
"Thank you Councilman Hearthmount. You may see yourself out."
After the councilman leaves Kendra turns to you all putting on a brave face as she does so. "Thank you all for coming. Your presence has made this slightly easier to deal with. I will need at least a few weeks time to decide whether I should stay here or sell my father's home. Either way you all are welcome to stay here during your time in Ravengro. I will make sure you are comfortable and have plenty to eat. You will stay, like my father wished you to, will you not?"
Without awaiting an answer she moves to retrieve the chest the will mentioned. The chest is a relatively small thing of oak and iron. Kendra retrieves the key and nervously holds it out towards you.
Orin smiled briefly at Kendra before inclining his head. "If by my presence I can bring you protection then so be it, you have my axe!"
When Kessa suggests someone to keep the chest, Orin nods and stands up, moving over to stare down at it. "I'll guard it with my life till we deliver it in to the hands of the right people!" The quiet, withdrawn Dwarf is gone for the moment, replaced by a driven man, full of confidence.
"Thank you Kendra, I'd be honored to accept your hospitality as well. If there is anything you need me to do, no matter how mundane the task, please don't hesitate to ask." Turning to Kessa, "Perhaps we should open it without Kendra? The professor wanted to not burden her with the darker side of his profession." Fixing her kerchief again, she smiles at Orin's enthusiasm. "I think we will be just fine with Orin with us to protect us!."
"I have four guest rooms available for use. Please feel free to choose among yourselves. You are also welcome to browse the bookshelves and read what you like. I am going to go prepare supper. It should be ready in about an hour to an hour and a half."
"We will see it done Kendra, rest easy. From the stories told of our interactions with your father, it seems to me that we have a capable lot should any unexpected situation arise."
Turning back toward Kessa and Mihaela asks, "Since there are five of us, I will room with either of the women." and with a slight smile adds, "If they will have me."
"You can share rooms with me, I feel I may be staying in the library for a bit with these books." Mihaela says with wonder, pulling a book off the shelf and browsing through it, murmuring.
"Facinating..." she says. "I wonder what books are in the chest? Now that Kendra has left, we could open it without exposing her to the professors concern? Should we even open it?" she says, putting the first book back and pulling another.
Orin makes a mental note to find the most secluded room he can, as he frowns down at the chest as it begins to open.
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The key fits the lock perfectly, and within are four old tomes and one relatively new one. The newest tome sits on the top and bears the phrase “Read me now!” scratched into the leather cover.
was found.
Circled Entries in the Professor’s Journal
Ten Years Ago:
The Whispering Way is more than just a cabal of necromancers. I see that now. Undeath is their fountain of youth. Uncovering their motivation does not place me at ease as I thought it might. Their desire to be eternal simply makes them more dangerous.
Two Months Ago:
It is as I had feared. The Way is interested in something here in Ravengro. But what could it be?
One Month Ago:
Whatever the Way seeks, I am now convinced their goal is connected to Harrowstone. In retrospect, I suppose it all makes sense—the stories they tell about the ruins in town are certainly chilling enough. It may be time to investigate the ruins, but with everyone in town already being so worked up about them, I’d rather not let the others know about my curiosity—there’s plenty of folks hereabouts who already think I’m a demonologist or a witch or something. Ignorant fools.
Twenty Days Ago:
It is confirmed. The Way seems quite interested in something—no, strike that—someone who was held in Harrowstone. But who, specifically, is the Way after? I need a list of everyone who died the night of the fire. Everyone. The Temple of Pharasma must have such a list.
Eighteen Days Ago:
I see now just how ill prepared I was when I last set out for the Harrowstone. I am lucky to have returned at all. The ghosts, if indeed they were ghosts (for I did not find it prudent to investigate further) prevented me from transcribing the strange symbols I found etched along the foundation—hopefully on my next visit I will be more prepared. Thankfully, the necessary tools to defend against spirits are already here in Ravengro. I know that the church of Pharasma used to store them in a false crypt in the Restlands at the intersection between Eversleep and the Black Path. I am not certain if the current clergy even know of what their predecessors have hidden down below. If my luck holds, I should be able to slip in and out with a few borrowed items.
Seventeen Days Ago:
Tomorrow evening I return to the prison. It is imperative the Way does not finish. My caution has already cost me too much time. I am not sure what will happen if I am too late, but if my theory is right, the entire town could be at risk. I don’t have time to update my will, so I’ll leave this in the chest where it’ll be sure to be found, should the worst come to pass.
All four of the older tomes have notes stuck in them.
Old tome #1 has a rich purple cover that contains a brass scarab set with a single eye in its center. The book’s covers are rimmed in polished steel and clasped with a small but intricate lock, the keyhole of which appears to be for a key with a strange, triangular shaft. The key is nowhere to be found within the chest. Pulling the note free from the locked tome you see it indicates the tome should be delivered to Embreth Daramad, a judge at the Lepidstadt Courthouse. The note also asks for this delivery in particular to be handled discreetly, and includes the address of Embreth’s home so that you can deliver it there.
Old tome #2: On Verified Madness: This jet-black book is a treatise on aberrations and other entities found on Golarion that possess remote ties to the Dark Tapestry, the name given to the dark places between the stars in the night sky. The note tucked inside the cover says this tome is to be delivered to one Montagnie Crowl, a professor of antiquities at Lepidstadt University.
Old tome #3: Serving Your Hunger: This text is a copy of one of several unholy books sacred to the goddess Urgathoa. Lorrimor’s notations liberally sprinkle the margins. The note tucked inside the cover says this tome is to be delivered to one Montagnie Crowl, a professor of antiquities at Lepidstadt University.
Old tome #4: The Umbral Leaves: This lexicon is a translation into Common of the unholy book of Zon-Kuthon. The note tucked inside the cover says this tome is to be delivered to one Montagnie Crowl, a professor of antiquities at Lepidstadt University.
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Kisasi reads the entries over Kessa's shoulder. A low growl begins to emit from his throat, as he guesses at the implications.
"It seems that 'the Way' and I will not soon be friends. I think we should look into the Professor's investigations, and begin one of our own. We did promise to stay a month... I expect there is a reason for that."
Mihaela accepts the book from Kessa and begins to read. Her face turns visibly pale after reading the contents. "This does not bode well..." Mihaela says softly, handing the book out. "What are the contents of these other books?" she reaches for the 1st tome and begins skimming through it.
"We should look in to where and how the Professor died. If we know that, we can work from there."
Idly flipping the book from hand to hand, Mihaela says, "Perhaps we can start at the university. With the people the professor has named in this case."
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"Where and how? I didn't even ask... was his body discovered in this prison?"
"The professor asked us to delay that journey for 1 month, to watch over Kendra here. I will respect those final wishes. Still, it sounds as though even possessing these books may have some legal concerns, so we should decide if we are to hide them, or carry them at all times. Either has it's risks, I suppose."
Hollering from the kitchen. {b]"Does anyone need a refill on their drink?"[/b] You begin to smell the aroma of a hearty beef stew emanating from the kitchen.
Kendra emerges from the kitchen carrying drinks for anyone that has asked for them. "I hope you are finding your accommodations acceptable. If there is anything I can do to make your stay more comfortable please let me know." Kendra seems to be trying to actively find something to do to occupy her mind and time. "Are there any questions you have while we wait for dinner to finish cooking?"
"He was found by a hunter on the grounds of Harrowstone Prison. I was told that his death appeared to be a horrible accident. A part of the prisons crumbling exterior apparently gave way and struck him in the head and face. Father Grimburrow would not allow me to see his body prior to him being prepared for burial. He told me I would not want to remember him the way he was found but rather as the man who raised me." She tears up as she finishes speaking.
Mihaela shudders, I didn't want to ask, but I'm glad I know now. "Kendra, it was a wise decision to not see your father and remember your father as you remember him. Thank you for the refreshments, the aromas coming from your kitchen smells fabulous." Mihaela says, quickly changing the subject. "I could use a refill on my water, it seems to have emptied itself." she smiles.
When Kisasi mentions how to proceed with the books, Delixia opens her mouth to speak just as Kendra returns. She holds her thought for now and instead turns to offer the daughter Lorrimor a smile. "No thank you, I'm fine."
"As frequent as it appears your father was engaged with accidents, this does not come as a surprise to many of us here." Pausing for a moment she adds, "Would you have any problem if I were to speak to Father Grimburrow on this matter further?"
"No I would not have an issue with that. I am sure he will be able to fill in details that I, sadly, can not."
Hearing no further questions Kendra rises and returns to the kitchen for a pitcher of water. She returns a moment later with an earthenware pitcher of ice cold water that has condensation running down its exterior. She places a towel under the pitcher prior to setting it on the table and then returns to the kitchen to tend to this evenings supper.