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"Whu-? Hey! What the!? SHAN!"
Desmond jumps and shoves the dwarf away. He then frantically takes a gulp of water and swishes it around his mouth before spitting it out at Shan.
"Sahrek! You're supposed to watch out for me!"
The wolf just yawns and nuzzles its nose under its paw and gets back to snoring.
"You watch yourself," he says with a grin. "So Shan, what've you been up to since we helped save Amara Li? Is it true that your lodge has been disbanded from the Society?"
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"It is true, old friend. The Lantern Lodge has passed. I feel I still must fulfill my quest, but at times it feels like a hollow ordeal. To remedy this, I have done what many other dwarves would do. Drink. Drink heavy and drink alot. Perhaps this mission shall set me back on the Eight-Fold Path, but for now I have lost my way.
"I hear they are really scrapping the bottom of the barrel for this mission. I guess that is why you and I are here."
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"Well, things could be worse, I guess. You could be on this mission without me." Desmond gives the dwarf a big grin.
He paces slowly and stretches out the kinks. "Well, I hear something went down with Shadow Lodge too. I don't think I ever did get to meet Torch. I hear tell from my friend Maaarv that Torch's reputation largely seems to hold true."
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"Wise observation my friend.
"I have heard similar rumors. I have never trusted those within the Shadow Lodge, even though we were supposed to. I do not grieve for its loss."
Shan begins to flex and tumble around the area.
"I have found a deeper level of insight through my meditations. I hope such talents will be useful in the future. We are moving up in the world and the challenges will only become more dire.
There are stirrings that something is amiss in the Worldwound. What have you heard?"
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"Not much. But I too have been building my skills. I don't know if I ever told you about my run-in with the demons. It was my mission right before I joined you and Ezrek and all down to the sewers to deal with those kobolds." The ranger goes quiet in thought.
"Well, I had my first dealings with a nasty demon in what amounts to a haunted house. Scared me to the giblets. So, I been studying up on demons - especially the chaotic ones. I've even been able to train Sahrek against them as well. As to current news, I have only heard rumors about the goings on in the Worldwound - nothing certain. But I plan to be ready for what may come."
Striding into the room is the hulk of a man known as Venture Captain Adril Hestram. "Knock it off, everyone," he commands, guessing from Shan and Desmond's rough-housing that the crew is up to no good. "We're still searching around for some more help on this mission. Trust me, the agent that we find will be worth the wait. Either that or we'll through a new recruit at you for you to babysit."
Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin sits behind his large and meticulously arranged desk and is followed into the room by the smirking, mustachioed likeness of Guaril Karela. Ambrus gestures to the chairs set forth before the desk, then begins his briefing.
"Some of you may not be acquainted with Mr. Karela. He’s an ally of the Society and he’s provided the Decemvirate pertinent information concerning this situation. I’ve invited him to participate in your briefing. Please extend to him every courtesy." Ambrus nods at Guaril to take the lead.
Guaril preens at the recognition and sets aside his dockside slang, looking from person to person and giving Desmond a wink before beginning. "By way of my own resources, it’s come to my attention there’s an individual looking for a buyer for a collection of valuable lore. These are legends—researched, annotated, and correlated with allegedly verifiable sources and maps. This poor, unfortunate soul has gotten himself in over his head with the loan sharks, and he’s seeking to liquidate his assets before he finds himself liquidated—if you follow me." Guaril grins toothily before sobering. "Cap’n Vaslin and I have arranged a meeting with him. We’ve let him think he’s getting paid on the spot, but that’s just to ensure that he actually shows up. He needs that money. But the Pathfinder Society doesn’t survive by trust alone. You’re going to need to talk him into coming to a safe house while we authenticate his collection and verify it’s worth the gold we’ve promised him. It’s the best offer he’s going to get without also eating his own entrails, because the Aspis Consortium has no reason to look out for a man with a price on his head. This is not a complex job. No deep politics, planar gallivantin’, or diggin’ fleas out of your trousers. Nevertheless, this collection could spur many more meaningful missions to come. Good coin and uh—lost secrets and such—"
"Exactly," Ambrus Vaslin interjects. "I’m sure you think this is beneath your station. What you need to understand is that the Ten view any success as a victory, especially if it opens up more leads for the entire Society. This individual, by the name of Syrdathiel, is an elf with expensive tastes. He wants to meet somewhere he feels safe. The Golden Serpent is a high-class restaurant in the Ivy District. That quarter of the city is routinely patrolled by its own paid mercenary force and the volunteer efforts of an order of paladins. Security shouldn’t be a problem, but by selecting you we’re leaving nothing to chance. Just persuade him to come in for the night, and in the morning he can walk out with cash in hand to settle his problems. If all goes well, you can be in soft beds before the night is over. There’s no travel expenses required here, but the Society is glad to reimburse you for dinner. I’ve eaten there myself; the menu is impeccable."
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Desmond gives a respectful nod to Guaril Karela and listens to his boss give the details.
"The Golden Serpent? Well," Desmond reaches down and scratches his pet wolf behind the ears, "I don't suppose ol' Sahrek here will be welcomed in. Don't worry boy, I'll bring you some vittles."
The wolf pays no attention to what Desmond says, he simply groans approvingly of the the ear-scratching.
"This whole thing sounds easy enough," Desmond concludes - perhaps with too much hubris in his voice.
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Shan remains calm and stoic during the debriefing.
At the mention of talk him into coming to a safe house , Shan gives a cautious look at Des. He then looks down at Sahrek when talks of eating his own entrails arise.
Shan's eyes shift over to Shin when Vaslin simply requests that the group persuade him to come in for the night.
With the mission given at hand, Shan begins to wonder if this really was the best group for job.
If this is what is best for the Lodge, Venture Captain.
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A female Halfling wearing a chain shirt and a battle worn cloak waits for a pause in the briefing, and steps forward.
"This elf sounds very interesting. I can hardly wait to meet him. And this classy Golden Serpent place to meet, what better way to start a meeting than with fine food? Oh I seem to have forgotten to introduce myself. I am Dora. My pleasure to have this chance to adventure with you." the Halfling bows to each of you.
"I was originally a language instructor for a group of barbarians, and having little success, found myself assigned to a band of ninjas. I have learned a bit about tactics and battles over the past year, so that is where I have concentrated my studies since. That, and a few odd assignments for the Society hunting Aspis agents in the tapestry. Oh and this is Boots..."
She points to a black wolf with white paws in barding and riding harness.
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Looming in the doorway is a fairly intimidating man; his shaved head almost touches the archway and his broad shoulders take up the rest of whats left of the doorframe, he quite literally looks like a human door. He is wearing a simple sleeveless tunic that shows off big arms completely covered in nefarious tattoos (demons, fire, skulls, etc.), it is not fastened around his neck and leaves a large opening showing a massive chest tattoo of the goddess Sarenrae. By a leather cord attached to his belt hangs a large Morningstar (made of Adamantine and Darkwood) with the word "Peacemaker" carved into it.
Sounds good, I was getting hungry.
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Desmond gives a nod to the two unfamiliar Pathfinders. He nudges his wolf with his boot, "Look Sahrek - you got someone to keep you company while we take in a fancy pants dinner."
The two latest arrivals carry themselves a little differently than the others. It seems apparent to Desmond that these two have quite a few more Society missions under their belt than he. "So, Dora and, uh...well, I don't think I caught your name there, inky...At any rate I'm just wondering what more experienced folks like you are doing slumming with the likes of us?" He spreads his arms out to indicate Shin and Shan as well as himself.
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Shan returns the bow to Dora. "Blessings to you Dora. I am Brother Shan Pangu. You have met Desmond, the other is Shinkeer. I will be the first to admit that talking and discussion is not our strong suit."
The dwarf's head tries to manage wild top hair with a long, unkempt beard both that have been touched by flame. He is dressed in simple garb. A sleeveless shirt barely covers his torso to fulfill society's modesty requirements accompanied with roughly sewn but loose fitting pants. He has a pair of spectacles on that he is trying to get used to.
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"Well, it is certainly a pleasure to meet all of you. I will have to work up a song to remind me of your names...at least until I get to know you better. Lets see 'There was Deser and Geser and Shan and Shin.'. No not quite right. We need a friend named "Comet" to make it rhyme. Fear not, I will keep working on it. Oh, where was I? Oh yes. Boots and I have been traveling a lot. We have been all over the place on different missions, even inside a tapestry if you can believe that! I am somewhat familiar with social events, but history and tactical warfare are my true interests. How did I end up with you fine folks? Just lucky I guess." She says the last part with a grin, realizing that she has gone on for too long already.
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Inky? That is a new one, I like it. My name is Geser. I am a devote of goddess Sarenrae. As for the reason of my slumming around with the likes of you, I was asked very nicely. I guess they needed a people person to facilitate conversation in a diplomatic fashion. If that fails I plan on breaking this guy's knee cap throwing him over my shoulder and dragging him back here so we can keep an eye on him. Then I would spend the rest of the night praying in my quarters, and then heal his knee up when Adril is done with him.
From his tone it is obvious he does not wish pain on this guy but more of I will do what I got to do to keep him safe and alive.
You can make a KN (local) or Diplomacy (gather information) check to learn more about the Ivy District of Absalom, where the Golden Serpent is located.
You can make a KN (local) or Diplomacy (gather information) check to learn more about the Golden Serpent.
Before entering the Golden Serpent, the doormen will ask you to either check your weapons at the door or to peacebind them if you wish to bring them inside.
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"Ol' Shin here ain't no slouch either. And Geser - I do like those tattoos that you got. Could never get one myself, just a little too permanent for me."
Once the party sets off, Desmond does what he can to find out more about the Golden Serpent - his main concern is whether pets would be allowed...
...and he is able to put his best face forward.
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"Let me see what I recall about this Inn. Not sure I have been there, but may know someone that has."
and
Dora uses prestigitation to tidy herself and Boots up. If the wolf is not allowed into the Inn as a "service" animal, Dora will plead with the staff trying to convince them that the wolf will be fine.
Otherwise, failing that, Boots will post guard of any gear the party wants to leave outside.
The restaurant recently came under new management, but this has not diminished its sterling reputation. Famous artists, politicians, and city celebrities frequently dine there. Such a high-class crowd would probably frown on a wolf at the dinner table.
The Brotherhood of Abadar and the Ivy District Watch are close to open conflict. The watch does a fine job, but the brotherhood has presented itself as a free (albeit faith-based) alternative, which makes it quite popular among some taxpayers. Both organizations have their supporters and critics. Their dispute seems territorial.
The new owner of the restaurant is a young woman with a noble air named Sendeli Foxglove. She is not a native of Absalom, but rather a wealthy immigrant who bought the Golden Serpent outright with the bulk of some personal inheritance. She is considered a local mystery.
The doormen sincerely apologize to Dora and Desmond but explain that it is restaurant policy not to let such animals inside, no matter how tame.
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Desmond hands Geser his weapons. "Thanks for taking these. I'd much rather have a fellow Pathfinder watch my gear than some coat-check girl, no matter how nice of a place this is."
After trying unsuccessfully to convince the Golden Serpent's doormen that Sahrek has better table manners than most people he's known, Desmond complies.
"Alright, I don't wanna cause a scene." He turns to Sahrek, "Looks like you'll be staying out here, boy. STAY."
Desmond's firm command keeps Sahrek in his place.
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"Cheer up Boots. You will have a friend to keep you company at least. Just be good!"
Dora places her lance against the outside wall and directs Boots to "Guard" it. She places her other gear into her own haversack.
"Mmmmm, can you smell that food? Geser, whatever they are baking, I might order two of them myself!"
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I heard halfings have a hearty appetite, you should put it to a test.Gives Dora a wink for encouragement.Normally I eat pretty meger meals myself, but tonight I am cashing in on all the successful missions I did for the society. I too plan on ordering two meals, the other for a fallen friend. Let us enjoy tonight, I think we were chosen because we earned it. And take a plate for the dogs!
The Golden Serpent is a sizeable, well-lit establishment with a raised stage occupying the center of its common room, a roaring fireplace on the south wall, and a long bar along the north. An elevated row of tables overlooks the main floor on the room’s western edge. The mood is subdued, but very few pause to take any notice of new arrivals. Over a dozen wide round tables fill the room, most packed with customers; one table is conspicuously empty except for a single elven man sitting at it. He gives the party a meaningful stare before nodding and gesturing for everyone to sit. Resting on top of the table before him is a leather folio, tied shut with leather straps.
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Desmond takes a seat and immediate looks over the menu.
"Let's see...squab - what the blazes is that. Mmm - porterhouse. Yeah I'll go with that..."
Desmond slams the menu shut and sets it down in front of him. He looks at the elf that is at the table with them.
"Oh! Right, sorry - stomach gets the best of me sometimes. I guess we should get to business. Well, I'm Desmond. You must be Syrdathiel. We're with the Pathfinder Society...." He continues to introduce the others. He then pauses to allow Syrdathiel to reply.
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Geser sits down at the table. To Desmond, in a polite voice..Friend let us eat first and talk business over wine or tea afterwards.
To Syrdathiel same polite voice. It is a pleasure to meet you, I was very excited at the opportunity to be at this meeting. Everyone at the society is excited about what you have to offer, I am however more excited to be able to dine at such a fine resturant. I have been told you picked the spot, I am truly impressed; do you have any recommendations on what meal to order?
If the meeting goes this route he will facilitate small talk, and try to get to business after dinner (he has been working for the society for a long time, meetings like this have a tendency of ending abruptly with ogres or what not charge in directly after key points are talked about, he will be dammed if he doesn't get a good meal first!).
Also. He will continue to cast Detect Poison every time anything is brought to the table, including after-dinner mints. He will not hide the spell casting, he will say You are under the protection of the society, we leave nothing to chance. if he gets questioned.
Syrdathiel responds to Desmond and Geser, "It's a pleasure to meet you. I am glad that approve of the setting. I can assure you that everything on the menu is exquisite."
After several more minutes of small-talk a very beautiful young woman approaches the table with pen and pad in hand. She is a stunning woman with a prominent features, long blonde hair pulled back with a begemmed hairpin, and fine clothing. "Good evening, everyone. My name is Sendeli Foxglove. I am the owner of this establishment and I hope everything is to your taste. If you folks are ready, I will take your drink and food orders."
Sendeli will carefully note down everyone's orders, giving several of you curious glances when two entrees are requested.
"Thank you all very kindly, I will put those orders in right away. Allow me to fill up your drinks while I'm here." She will work her way around the table and refill everyone's drinks before leaving you to your business.
That is not the elf you’re here to meet! Someone else got here first and took the other elf and left, along with whatever else it is you hoped to obtain. These bastards have taken everyone hostage in order to fleece you Pathfinders; and once they get you out of here, they plan on robbing everyone in my restaurant.
There’s one by the door and another one up above. They claim they’ll burn the place down if we warn you. For the love of everything decent help us! Even if you leave, I know many of these people are going to die!
Sendeli Foxglove
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Dora sits at the table with her companions and the elf male. She reviews the menu.
"There are so many yummy things on the menu, I cannot decide. Syrdathiel, what do you recommend?"
Dora places her order and then takes her drink.
"Wow, this place is wonderful. With food as good as they say, we may never want to leave. Definitely worth a speech. Lets see, how should I start? Hmmm.... " as Dora rattles on about other fancy inns and fine food and battles fought and elves etc.
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It has been a long time since Shan has eaten so well. He typically lives off what he can find in the wood, only enough to nourish his body during his travels.
Shan keeps to himself, enguaging in conversation when talked to directly. He continues to keep a watchful eye on his surroundings, again trying to get used to his new glasses. In a place like this, surly somebody would stick out. Of course, he wonders how much he sticks out right now as well.
Syrdathiel nods at Desmond and Dora as they excuse themselves to check on their pet wolves. He turns to Shan, Shin, and Geser. "Perhaps we can begin to discuss business while we wait for dessert. Specifically I hope not to leave here without the money I was promised."
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"Ah here they are, doing fine. Why do I always worry? Ah Desmond deary, I guess we can head back."
She waits for him to feed the wolf, and then Dora moves close to Desmond, and reaches to hold his hand to go back inside and pauses...
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Yes that was a fine meal indeed. I have been given instructions by my superiors that you are to be escorted back to my headquarters. The society plans on paying you a handsome amount for what you can provide; but like all transactions of this size they want someone to appraise what it being sold. They have someone waiting there to do the appraisal and this should not take much time at all. A man of your fine tastes may enjoy seeing some of the collection the society has obtained.. Sips his tea. We have also been informed you are heavily indebted to some loan sharks with nasty reputations. My superiors would not allow us to carry the mass of gold they promised fearing we get jumped in an alley.. Smiles to the elf in a "you are going to make a butt load of money if you come with me way". to see how the business deal is going.
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"Yeah, it's probably best to act while we have the element of surprise. I just hope the others will pick up on what's going on."
He keeps his voice low. "Sahrek's still a bit of a young pup, but I think he could hold his own pretty well in there - enough for a distraction."
Desmond gives his wolf the steak while quickly scannning the entrance and the exterior of the restaurant, "The note says that there's one at the entrance, and one above..."
"I just hope we can avoid innocent casualties - I hate getting chewed out by Society brass."
Desmond, whose idea of tactics mostly involve shooting first with his bow or swinging harder with his sword, agrees that a diversion is a good route to go.
The only problem I foresee is I believe everyone gave their weapons to Geser.
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Desmond's brow furrows, "Geser's got my gear, and I think Shin's and Shan's as well. Gorram, should've stashed my stuff outside like you did. Do you have a bow I can use? Wait, it's probably too small..."
Desmond thinks some more. "Well, if the wolves create a distraction, I might be able to rush and grapple with one of them - it won't be easy, though. What do you think?"