Both of the gremlins are caught in Zerazin's Color Spray and fall to the ground, unconscious. A few moments later, the door burst open, and Sheila comes into the room, Koriah right behind her. The explorer had her aklys in hand and scanned the room, looking for any signs of danger.
Sheila took in the scattered books and scrolls, the fresh scars and cuts in the tables and chairs from the hard misses as you attempted to strike the gremlins, and finally the two dog-faced gremlins lying unconscious on the floor. She looked aggrieved for a moment at the chaos, then smiled slightly. "Koriah, be a dear and take the pugwampis somewhere where they won't cause any more harm to my library, please."
Turning back to the paradox box. she said, "So, that is what was in the box, eh? A pair of gremlins? Someone's idea of a joke, I suspect." She picked up the open paradox box and looked at it. "Well, that and some baubles." She poured a few garnets, a dagger, and a ring into her hand. She looked at them intensely for a moment, muttering to herself, then looked up again. "Do you think you can open it again? Show me."
She closed the box and then watched as Eowythe once again adjusted the runes so they read LUCRE. The box sprang open, empty this time, and Sheila simled. "Well, I expected it to be empty, though I did have hope that it might contain some lost lore. Still, nothing lost. Feel free to keep these treasures for yourself. The box will be worth far more to me now that I know how to open it. The ring allows the wearer to fall long distances safely. I imagine it could be quite useful for you in the days ahead."
Congratulations! Everyone earns 80 XP for taking care of the pugwampis, and another 120 XP for not letting them do too much damage.
"Allow me to apologize for the unpleasantness with the gremlins - but, it does provide an excellent object lesson. The life of a Pathfinder in not one for the weak of heart. That you managed to not only open the box, but also take care of the gremlins so quickly is all the confirmation that I need that my gut was correct. You 're the perfect group for the job I have in mind.
"You see, I've recently has some trouble with one of my informants here in Magnimar. Her name is Natalya Vancaskerin, a half-Varisian who approached me with an offer to serve as a street informant. She's Sczarni, though I'm not sure with which group. A week ago, Natalya sent me a cryptic hint that her gang was on the verge of uncovering an item that would be of great interest to the Society. Since the Sczarnis' methods of uncovering something often involved an armed robbery to breaking into somebody's personal chambers, we thought it prudent not to press for further details and instead wait to see what it would produce. Suffice it to say, she hinted strongly that it pertained to Thassilon, and promised to meet with me to discuss this find three days ago.
"She never kept that promise. Instead, she seems to have simply vanished. Initially I assumed that the acquisition of this item was simply taking longer than expected, but now I'm hearing rumors that the Sczarni are looking for her as well.
"It seems likely that Natalya has absconded with this item she discovered. And this is where you come in. I want to know what it was Natalya and the Sczarni found. In fact, I'm more interested in that than what happened to Natalya herself. For now, I'd like to keep all of this quiet - if you can find out what happened to Natalya withotu letting a lot of people know she was also working for me as an informant, that would be preferable. That's a big part of why I am coming you, new members of the Pathfinder Society, with this task, rather than use somebody like Koriah. You don't have a reputation in Magnamar, and as such the low-lifes, criminals, and politicians you encounter may be more likely to talk.
"So...I want you to go out there and look for Natalya. Find out what happened to her, and to this item she and her gang discovered, If you can secure the itemm so much the better. Bring it back to me and I'll have a reward of 500 gold pieces for you. And if you can bring Natalya back to me, alive and in condition to speak, then I'll double that. What say you?"
"I'm certainly up for a bit of risk and adventure, the god himself lived that very life before and after his ascension," Pakak grins toothily. He makes a note of the 'Pugawumpis' or whatever they are, in case he should meet them again. "I find it funny you put low-lifes, criminals AND Politicians in the same pot...I think it might be insulting to the low-lifes, but sure, I'm in."
Crugold frowns as he is unable to do much to aid the struggle, but puts that aside for later reflection. He had finally found a way to get the lessons he needed to improve, even if many of them were likely to be unpleasant, and that was enough. He smiles at the mention of a lack of reputation. "I may not have been the best in the arenas, but I daresay that some of the lower element will have heard of me, and my ability to knock teeth out from time to time. This should be most interesting indeed."
What a strange test. And an even stranger group. I look to be the most normal amongst them, and that's saying something.
I've been known to enjoy a bit of cloak and dagger, if you'd permit me to go, Mistress Sheila. Adyn's voice has lowered an octave, and he yanks off his skirt as if blaming it for not getting more frequent hits on the pesky gremlins. Underneath are leather leggings, which make Adyn appear more like a teenaged boy, despite the remaining pigtails.
"Well, the money sounds good. I would be happy to help find Natalya and this item of hers.
But I am afraid that I am not particularly low-key. Or subtle."
"Very well then. Before you go, let me give you what little information I have on the matter. Natalya was exceedingly cautious about her self and the groups she worked with. i knew that she was a member of one of the Sczarni clans in Magnimar, but not which one, specifically.
"For those of you who may be new to Magnimar, or less versed in its unsavory element, the Sczarni are the most visible criminal organization in the region - not the most dangerous, or the most powerful, simply the most visible. They tend to stick to burglaries and the like, staying away from the most violent of crimes. In many cases, they provide protection and policing for those neighborhoods that the city watch prefers to leave alone. As such, they are often well-regarded by the lower classes, who often offer aid to and refuse to talk about the Sczarni in their neighborhoods.
"There are six major Sczarni gangs in the city: the Creepers, Doolun's Lads, the Gallowed, teh Tower Girls, the Washside Wringers, and the Wreckwash Blades. The Gallowed are rumored to be the strongest Sczarni family in the city...but again, that's just a rumor.
"Your best place to start your investigation might be with the go-between Natalya originally used to contact me with her offer of service. He's a carnie, a fortune-teller, down on Washer's Row in Dockway. Goes by the name of The Amazing Zograthy. As far as I could tell, the only amazing thing about him were his prices. Anyways, he's probably your best bet.
"I have also heard rumors about Nidalese slavers abducting the less-fortunate among the lower class, and these I find probable. Or, maybe she was picked up by the Watch. I haven't heard anything regarding that, but a visit to Arvensoar might give you more info about that. Other than that, all I can offer you is wishes for luck. Please keep me informed on your progress.
"Slavers?" Pakak scowls, "Pardon, kind of an abomination to my faith."
"I shall endeavour to assist with all my skill, mistress, Desna willing." Eowithe says "We must be cautious dealing with the Sczarni, criminal they may be, stupid they are not."
Hmm, carnies and fortune tellers? Adyn gives a quick grin. My kinda people. If you folks don't mind, I could prob'ly get this Zograthy to talk to me. I'd 'preciate some back up tho. Any o' you a decent actor? We could pretend to be a team o' some sort, lookin' for work. The name's Adyn by-the-by.
Adyn grabs a pack he had stowed behind a curtain, and begins rummaging thru it for earrings, scarves, and sashes. Within moments he's a very convincing-looking gypsy boy. Next he'll go to the nearest candidate and size them up for scarves and the like. No that won't do. It's too festive and you're too... grim. Could ya smile a little? Look friendly?
Crugold simply raises an eyebrow at the strange servant adventurer as he shoulders his own pack. "Let us check out this Zograthy first. It's the best lead we have. If that fails, we can fall back on our own resources, but no point in spending resources if it's not required."
"Slaver's aren't my favorite people, but I have no problem dealing with them. Do you have an expense account, Captain Heidmarch? We could purchase you a new servant while we're there, since it seems you'll be needing one."
Zerazin smiles broadly, exposing her dull grey teeth. But due to the lamps of her eyes, the expression looks more creepy than friendly. She pokes with her worn staff at some of the costuming Adyn has produced.
"This is all so...flamboyant. Color is weakness. Distraction. You do understand that don't you?" She scrutinizes Adyn as the 'gypsy' continues scrutinizing disguises. Actually, I suspect you understand that better than most.
"Or I could come to Zograthy's with you. I've never...acted...but I can keep my mouth shut with the best of them." She grins again. "Well, sometimes, anyway."
"I also could accompany our 'maid' " smiling, Eowithe says "My training involves the interrogation of individuals through intimidation and deception. Plus being Varisian, I could pass for a gypsy with ease"
"Expenses...are expensive. That's their nature. Still, if you are going to go out on my behalf, I guess I could send a small warchest with you. How does 100 gold sound? That should be enough for any minor equipment you might need, as well as paying for any information you find easier to purchase than procure in other ways."
If she's a maid, I'm an elven prince. Pakak snorts, "I'm half Varisian myself, but the other half tends to render that null and void to most folks."
"Thank you, Venture Captain. That will be most helpful."
The Venture Captain is most kind -- I hadn't actually expected her to provide expenses. I'll make sure to choose someone suitable for her.
Adyn gives Zerazin a wan smile after failing to find anything suitable. What *is* she? I've never seen anyone so grey before. I don't think this disguise will work for you. Perhaps the human lady would be more... believable. I have been told I am charming, and if that fails to inspire answers, perhaps this lady's threats will be productive.
Mistress Shiela, is there anything else that might help us find Natalya? Her description, and the place she was last seen? And I took it from what you said, that you would prefer it not be known that the Pathfinders are searching for her and this item? Is that true? Shall we be discreet, or is it alright to use the Pathfinder name to reinforce or inquiries? Do any of you think of other questions before we set off?
"We have two avenues of inquiry before us. Zogarthy the seer and the watch. I would not think splitting our nacent group would be advisable. Strength in numbers should the Sczarni come at us in force during our investigation. Let us visit the Amazing Zogarthy then make our way to Arvensoar to see if Natalya is in the stocks."
"Sounds like a plan."
"Agreed. Whatever we do, we should act quickly; if she's disappeared out of Scarnzi view, we may not have much time."
"Those are all good questions -- I have no others. And I agree with the suggestions of how to proceed. No splitting up, and start with the Amazing One and then the Watch. And the slavers if neither of those pan out."
"Now a question about our spoils. Use or sell? I have no use for any of the items, but if someone else feels they do, they should use them. Otherwise they should be sold when we hit the market."
"The ring is too useful NOT to use, you never know when you might plummet unexpectedly... booze not required, but helpful." He smirks.
Yes, your plan sounds like a good one. I was just thinking that perhaps 2 of us would do the talking, and the other 3 would hang back discreetly, but nearby. She surveys the room. Because I don't know if all five of us at once would inspire... trust.
Mistress Shiela, is there anything else that might help us find Natalya? Her description, and the place she was last seen? And I took it from what you said, that you would prefer it not be known that the Pathfinders are searching for her and this item? Is that true? Shall we be discreet, or is it alright to use the Pathfinder name to reinforce or inquiries? Do any of you think of other questions before we set off?
"Natalya Vancaskerin is of medium height, thin build, and has curly black hair - most of the time. Her mother was a Varisian fortune teller, if the rumors are true, and she has typical Varisian features. Natalya was exceedingly cautious about her self and the groups she worked with. I am afraid I can't tell you much more than that. As for involving the Pathfinders, I'd prefer if you didn't. I am trying to keep my interest in this matter quiet, and in Magnimar the Pathfinders are associated with me - and rightly so."
Shall we head towards this Zogarthy? Adyn heads towards the door, uncomfortable taking the lead as she is usually following someone.
"No time like the present," Pakak agrees, "Maybe we'll learn a bit more than intended. And no throwing the Pathfinder term around, got it." He also heads to the door.
"Yes let us make haste. Natalya's very life may be further endangered if we tarry longer." Eowithe says, then considers for a moment "There is one of Magnimar's famous monuments in a square on the way, we should stop briefly and each ask a boon of the spirit that lies within."
"Oh. I forget. Since no one else is claiming the darn thing." Pakak back tracks, takes the ring, "I'll wear this until the group decides what to do with it. If someone else wants to wear it, speak up and I'll hand it to you on the way. But it would be a shame if someone ended up plummeting to their death when they at least had a chance for this."
"Oh yes, of course. We should definitely stop and look at it. I'm very fond of that monument."
"Can't hurt, I suppose. Should at least prove to be a good way to get to know each other's capabilities to at least some degree, and it might even be entertaining."
If it's on the way, of course we should go. Adyn too, knows nothing of it.
After thinking about it for a moment, Eowythe led them to the Mapstone Monument, on the Northernmost edge of Lowcleft. The area, vibrant at night, has a seedy, abandoned feel in the middle of the day. A number of locals stare sullenly at the mixed bag of races as you pass by. When she arrives, Eowithe invites you to behold the Mapstone Monument. The top of this block of stone has been meticulously carved into a scale model of the city ofMagnimar. Touch-up s and additions to the carving are performed yearly to show the rise and fall of buildings in the city by artistic sculptors from the Church of Abadar using stone shape spells.
Eowythe tells you to meditate on the Mapstone for a time, while thinking about the wonders of the city and trying to find your favorite locations. She even points out where you are now, pressing the Mapstone in the appropriate location and leaving a glowing red dot behind that slowly fades away.
You get a +1 morale bonus to all Will svaes for 24 hours. This bonus increases by +1 for every 10 points beyond 15.
Knowledge Local:
I hope nobody notices how completely clueless I am about this place.
Knowlege local
That was... inspiring. On now to the Amazing Zograthy?
"It is, isn't it. It's even more impressive on sunnier days. But yes, let's continue on."
Crugold takes some time to examine the monument. "Oh, so that is where that street leads to, I was always a bit curious about that. Wow, there is more to this city than I suspected; I may need to get out more and explore if I get a chance, that looks quite interesting to see in person." Once he is done, "Fascinating monument, this. Great civic pride indeed to maintain this. But it is time to be getting on with our task."
Eowythe knew right where to find the Washer's Row Carnival. At the southern end of Washer's Row, a tattered banner hung over the entrance to the small side street advertises "Professor Callivaro's Stupendous Exhibition of the Outrageous and Sublime." Beyond this overly exuberant advertisement is a squalid setup consisting of little more than a series of rundown sideshow booths and carts with assorted games and amusements of the meaner sort. To one side, urchins pitch pennies at lily pads floating in a small, scum-covered fountain while a a bored carnie looks on. Nearby, the sound of cats hissing and fighting arises from behind a cart where a small crowd of ne'er do wells has gathered to cheer and place bets. Everywhere lurk faces pinched with suspicion or hunger - expressions worn by carnival workers and visitors alike. This is not the sort of place to be careless with a coin pouch.
There are no signs proclaiming his place of business, but a too-loud comment from Pakak causes a nearby barker to call out "If'n ye're lookin' fer th' Amazin' Zograthy, his tent's about four stall ov'er an' t' th' right."
There you find a patched tent, well-weathered and looking older than Varisia itself. It has been crudely painted with mystic symbols and decorated with chicken feet, shrunken heads, and frames of string laid out intricate patterns.
The "arcane" symbols are gibberish, the shrunken heads appear to be from mites or other very small creatures, and the chicken feet may as well have been yesterday's lunch.
Ducking inside the tent, you see a cluttered, stuffy interior with a table covered in blue velvet. The velvet is stitched with stars, moons, and more arcnae symbols. A dusty crystal ball and a tattered Harrow deck sit upon the velvet, behind which sits an aged, bald Varisian man with threadbare robes and piercing eyes.
Upon your entrance, the old man says in a tremulous, but dramatic voice, "The Amazing Zograthy sees all and knows all. A double fist of silver brings the wisdom of the ages through card or crystal. A treble fist of gold for the secrets of the multiverse."
Pakak takes a seat in front of the man, and says, "I have no doubt of your knowledge." He holds up a gold piece, but does not give it to the man yet. "Tell us what you know of Natalya Vancaskerin."
The old man raised his eyes at the half-orc's appearance and tone of voice. He started to speak, thought better of it, then thought better again and spoke. "Aaah...secrets. Perhaps my greatest trade. And worth more than a paltry coin, as well. I would ask you for the going rate, but you don't look like fools. Instead of 50 gold, I'll answer all your questions for that coin...and 14 of his brothers, placed neatly upon my table."
Pakak looks to the others
"I am a simple man, and have had no need for gold."
Zerazin considers opening the chest of gold in her backpack, but doesn't want Zograthy to know how much money they have. Instead she opens her belt pouch. The gold coins glitter against her dull fingers as she spreads them on the table.
"Here's a dozen and two brothers. A veritable housefull. So now there are no more secrets, yes?"
"Secrets there are in plenty, but ask what you will of Natalya Vancaskerin and I will tell you what I can.
"Yes, I know of Natalya Vancaskerin. She runs with the Tower Girls and hasn't been seen nor heard from in a while. Like many folks around Dockway. There's been a bunch of disappearances, but most of them are just destitutes. No one cares, if it's only the poor and criminals, right? The rumor on the streets is it's slavers for the Nidalese - there's a pair of their ships, with the purple banners on the sails - in the harbor. All I know, is it ain't the Sczarni. There was some of them looking for the Vancaskerin girl just two days ago. As for what score she was on, I don't ask and they don't tell. Closemouthed lot, those Tower Girls.
For the moment, Eowithe lets the others do the talking,observing Zograthy as he answers the questions.
Sense Motive
"Useful," Pakak admits, "Can you tell us more about the Tower Girls, where they might be found?"
Hmm, I thought we had a plan. I might have been able to gather information for free. Or perhaps not, the way my luck is holding. But it seems my new half-orc colleague prefers the direct approach. And... he seems to be doing well enough without the talents I trained all my life for. It seems this group neither wants nor needs my input. Alas, this is my alternative to prison, and I did sign a contract.
This is the moment that Adyn decides never again to volunteer advice or an opinion unless directly asked a question. She moves so silently, that it is easy to forget she's there at all.