membership in the Consortium. Bronze agents are overseen by silver
agents, who are in turn overseen by gold agents. A gold agent usually
administers affairs in a large city or small nation. The Aspis Consortium has made several loans to power groups in Riddleport, including the three primary temples. These loans were drafted with intensely legalistic language and included steep interest rates, which the temples are often reluctant to pay, further entrenching them in debt.
Riddleport’s primary temples are the Publican House, a tavern-temple of Cayden Cailean; the House of the Silken Veil, a brothel-temple of Calistria; and the Fish Bowl, a temple of Besmara. The Publican House is the tavern-temple of Cayden Cailean. All are welcome in this crowded, rowdy drinking hall, except for cyphermages. Gambling and drinking contests are common at the Publican House.
No one has really heard of Jenk, but a few were able to point you in the direction of the Barracuda Cartage, which is just down the docks a little ways.
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"That's the spirit, Cleaver! If I remember correctly, we ought to seek out the Publican House - it's not only supposed to be a first-rate tavern, but also serves as a temple to Cayden Cailean. Let's go, boys! After we meet back up with our ladypriests and Ernie, we'll head to the Barracuda Cartage."
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" ... but I'm not as free with myself as Luisila and Zynep ... "
Luisila calls over her shoulder to Linnea, as she leaves the ship:
“Oh, I’m never free, Sweet Heart.”________________________________________________________________________
Later ...
“ … oh, I just LOVE your hat and beard, Cap’n Jack and I’ll certainly keep an eye out for a black pearl.”
Luisila waits until the pirate is out of earshot.
“Did you hear what he said, Zynep?”
“I'm outraged on your behalf.”
“The Aspis Consortium is a supranational trade organization with shadowy leadership and a reputation for ruthless trade practices. The Aspis Consortium hires countless common mercenaries and merchants. Bronze agents hold the lowest rank of actual membership in the Consortium. Bronze agents are overseen by silver agents, who are in turn overseen by gold agents. A gold agent usually administers affairs in a large city or small nation.”
“The Aspis Consortium has made several loans to power groups in Riddleport, including the three primary temples. These loans were drafted with intensely legalistic language and included steep interest rates, which the temples are often reluctant to pay, further entrenching them in debt.”
"Wow, that woman you're with isn't very attractive is she? Did her mother have to tie a sausage 'round her neck to get the family dog to play with her?"
“Riddleport’s primary temples are the Publican House, a tavern-temple of Cayden Cailean; the House of the Silken Veil, a brothel-temple of Calistria; and the Fish Bowl, a temple of Besmara. The Publican House is the tavern-temple of Cayden Cailean. All are welcome in this crowded, rowdy drinking hall, except for cyphermages. Gambling and drinking contests are common at the Publican House.”
“No one has really heard of Jenk, but a few were able to point you in the direction of the Barracuda Cartage, which is just down the docks a little ways.”
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Roland looks awkwardly at Linnea waiting for an escort...then remembers seeing this done before by a dandy in part of Magnimar. He extends his arm...
"Linnea, Varg...let us go find zhis publican pub...sounds like just zhe place for drinking, singing and 'aving some fun.. "
He walks off with Linnea and Varg, mindful of pickpockets he has heard in these parts.
Roland, Varg, and Linnea do not have to walk far before coming upon one of the myriad of taverns and alehouses that crowd the docks area. Entering one called the Cypher Saloon, they find a sullen roomful of longshoremen, ship's crew members and various other menial laborers. A red-haired, pockmarked bar wench greets the trio brusquely. Find a table wherever yous can. I'll be over when I can get ta ya's. she croaks, before disappearing behind a set of swinging doors.
Zynep, Luisila, and Ernest are able to get directions to Calistria's temple with little effort, seems everyone knows where it is. They have a little bit longer of walk, but arrive within about thirty minutes of leaving the docks area. Upon first glance, it is hard to imagine the House of the Silken Veil as a brothel. It is a large, grimy marble building topped with an ugly blood-red steeple. Nevertheless, its three entrances are each hung with freshly laundered curtains and the heavy, floral smell of incense wafts from the building. They are greeted immediately by a scantily clad priestess. Umm, how we can we be of service to you three? You need a forth you hungry beast? she purrs, directing the last comment at Ernest while running a finger down his chest.
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Roland will seek out a table where he can sit with a view of the entrance and bar if possible. To Varg and Linnea, assuming they went the same way...
"Hah, friendly place, no? Definitely zhis crowd could us some cheery songs. Linnea, do you remember any of zhe ones Varg told? Maybe we can start with one you know better to get zhem in zhe mood first?"
Roland continues to watch people and tries to order a round for hs friends if the bar wench ever returns.
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Linnea gives Roland a wink and whispers,"Roland, you may want to refer to me as Thestil - who knows if Jenks or anyone that works for him is in here. However, I do believe I know a good song - feel free to join in if'n you know it."
Home I’d like to be, home for awhile in my old count-a-ry
Where the oak and the ash and the bonny elm tree
They’re all a-growing greener in my old count-a-ry
There was an apprentice lived in Strawberry Lane
Loved by her master and her mistress the same
Until a young sailor lad came sailing o’er the sea
And that was the beginning of her misery
This young maid being innocent she thought it was no harm
To go into bed for to keep his back warm
He hugged her and he kissed her and he called her his dear
He said ‘I wish, my love this night had been as long as a year’
And it’s home boys home
Home I’d like to be, home for awhile in my old count-a-ry
Where the oak and the ash and the bonny elm tree
They’re all a-growing greener in my old count-a-ry
‘Twas early next morning the sailor lad arose
And into her apron he put handfuls of gold
‘Take this my dear for the mischief that I’ve done
Last night I may have left you with a daughter or a son’
‘And if it be a girl child dandle her on your knee
And if it be a male child call him after me
And when he is a man, you can dress him up in blue
He’ll go skipping up the rigging like his daddy used to do’
And it’s home boys home
Home I’d like to be, home for awhile in my old count-a-ry
Where the oak and the ash and the bonny elm tree
They’re all a-growing greener in my old count-a-ry!"
After singing her heart out, Linnea sinks back to her chair beaming, and perhaps forgetting her cover a little. "Roland, my dear - share a song with us!" And turning to Varg, "Cleaver - you're on deck." She then takes a swig of mead and cheers on her fellow Pathfinders.
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If the crowd seems to be listening, with mug in hand, Roland will try to get them started with a Taldor song he knows...
"Thestil, lets try this one...everyone can join! . "
Glittering domes and spires ye claim!
Subjects rejoice, foes fall in shame!
None shall tarnish Taldor's great fame!
Forests and Fields of Noble Taldor:
Forests and Fields of Noble Taldor,
Strong trees, fresh air and woods!
Storied halls of pine a-splendor,
None shall match your opulent good!
"
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As the courtesan pierces Ernest's visual illusion, he looks around wildly, not entirely sure what he's trying to find. He then raises his arms and wails them about wildly. In his own voice, he exclaims his discontent. "Aah! Mother was right! They're so scary! I need an adult! An adult! Mo-o-ommy!" The party at watches a hulking Mwangi man (that they know is simply an overweight Garundi man-child) run out of a brothel, with a horribly unfitting voice.
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With a smile, Luisila turns to Zynep … not too surprised about this turn of events.
“Next time, maybe we cast Unbreakable Heart on him first.”
Perhaps he’s wearing Boots of Speed … I have never seen anyone that big move so fast before.
“Is this purely a social call? I can go after him if you think it would help. Otherwise, you know I’ll assist you in any way you want, sist…”
Suddenly, seeing the look on Zynep’s face, Luisila breaks off her prattle, draws her whip and tries to trip Ernest before he gets away.
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Zynep tries to grab Ernest in desperation before he flees.
Unable to hold on to the portly wizard, Zynep remarks with a smile, "And I had a two for one, around-the-world coupon too. We can let him go."
Zynep then turns to the nubile priestess revealing her silver holy symbol, motioning for Luisila to do the same.
"Greetings, darling. I am Zynep Ravana and this is Lady Luisila. We are vicars from Absalom. Any chance we are able to put on a pot of tea and speak with Madam Pamodae. All we've had to drink on the trip is rot ale. I find tea is best during discussions of business in Riddleport."
Zynep then whispers her intentions to Luisila, "A friend of mine wants to set up shop in town. I have come to ask for Pamodae's permission. If you could assist me in this task, I would be grateful."
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In the middle of her song and dance, Linnea suddenly stops. "Oh no! I need to get to the Temple of Calistria right away!" She drops her drink and dashes out of the tavern, calling back over her shoulder, "You'll take care of my tab, won't you guys? Thanks a bunch!"
As Linnea makes her way through the streets of Riddleport, she mutters to herself, "I can't believe the major is using me to get his escorts." She rips the note from her pocket and re-reads it.
"Okay, I'm pretty sure I can find the Calistrian Temple; isn't that where the others went?"
Zynep, Lusila, and Ernest?....
The priestess pauses for a moment before answering, watching Ernest hightail it out the door. Well, wherever did he run off too? Cold Feet? Or, she looks aghast, perhaps he did not find me comely! She snaps out of her doubting thoughts and addresses Zynep. Lashmistress Pamodae is very busy. I will see if she can spare a moment for you. May I ask as to the nature of your business?
Varg, Roland, and Linnea?....
The trio belly up to a table and order drinks. Linnea eventually breaks into a song, that is followed by another performed by all three. The crowd seems unmoved, except for a couple of drunks in the back that slur their words and are hardly intelligible. Suddenly Linnea springs from the table and darts out of the bar, asking the bewildered men to pay her tab. The crowd watches this all transpire without a flicker of emotion across the numerous faces.
Meanwhile....
Linnea goes tearing off through the streets of Riddleport, trying to find the House of the Silken Veil. She barrels around a corner and runs headlong into Ernest, who is trotting as fast as he can in the opposite direction. They collide like two billiard balls and both go sprawling on the ground.
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"Ernie!! I'm so glad I found you. You need to take me to the Silken Veil. C'mon, chop chop - no time to waste!" She stands up and brushes herself off. Linnea grabs Ernest by the collar and lifts him up as best as she can. She stumbles a bit with the portly man, but manages to get him standing.
The night air is cool as Linnea grabs Ernest's wrist and begins pulling him along with her. "Which way, Ernie? Where's Zynep and Luisila? Oh, nevermind. Just lead the way."
Boy, he didn't take long. Did he cast haste on himself?
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"Hu-buh-tuh, no! The ladies! They were all almost naked! She poked my stomache! And they wanted to... they wanted... I can't... I--" Linnea then grabs Ernest's wrist, to which he jerks around quite uselessly. "Aah! All the touching! I can't take it anymore! Mother was right! She said I shouldn't talk to girls because I'd get in over my head! Th-buh-..." He continues to sputter, but in a less happy version than before.
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He closes his eyes and thinks for a moment. "I knew these adventures would get difficult, but not like this. But I'm only required to do three things; Explore, Report, and Cooperate. It's time to do the last one, despite how much I don't want to do the first... "N... I... I should be fine now, he says, fixing his hat. It turns into a bicorne that rests utop a Varisian frame wearing a pirate getup that matches Ernest's huskier, natural form.
On the way back, he continues the conversation. "I'm so glad you came by, L--Thestil. Talking with those ladies is so difficult, 'cause I can't concentrate around them at all. Plus, the other guys, besides you, I barely met and look like they're of different interests." He looks at Linnea. "If you really want to, you can hold my wrist now; I should be able to handle it now."
The priestess shakes her head. I'll tell her, but being cryptic is not the way to impress the Lashmistress, she says as she stalks off toward the back of the temple. The duo wait for thirty minutes before the priestess returns. She is followed by a beautiful woman, by whose garb you would guess is the Lashmistress. She in turn, is followed by a small entourage of only slightly less fetching women and a few well armed guards. So approaches slowly, stopping to talk to "parishioners" of the House along her route. She finally arrives, studying Zynep and Luisila with great interest. Welcome sisters, I am Shorafa Pamodae, High Priestess of the House of the Silken Veil. Please do not tell me that I was so rudely taken away from my...worshipers, for mere introductions and paying of respects.
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"... perhaps he did not find me comely!"
“By Threv’s feathered forehead, that’s not even remotely possible, Honey!”
“Educating the shy ones can take a while, but is well worth it in my experience.”
As they wait for the Lashmistress, Luisila whispers to Zynep.
“Probably goes without saying, but given Jenk is playing loan shark with the Silken Veil, if any of the others show up (and I wouldn’t put it past, Cleaver!) maybe we should remind them to keep their false-Aspis identities secret.”
Luisila then spots an old adventuring companion, that she hasn’t seen in some time and spends some time consoling him (not that way!), while ensuring he will not blow their cover later.
“Yes, a lot of people are upset, H. What does Filios think about it? Anyway, I’m sure the Ten have their reasons … There’ll be some kind of conciliatory golden handshake though, right?”
“Look, I wouldn’t worry about, Torch. You can’t tell me he doesn’t have something stashed away for a rainy day.”
“Anyway, next time you’re in Absalom, go have a chat with VC Valsin – he’ll definitely take your call. Then look me up and we’ll go see if Ezrek has opened that bar up yet. OK?”
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Linnea takes Ernest's wrist again and they head towards the Silken Veil. Upon arriving, they see that Zynep and Luisila are addressing a woman in fine attire.
"Ernie, shut your eyes if it will make things easier. In fact, here, take these." She hands Ernest her pair of smoked goggles. "Just put'em on. These will protect you from the gaze of all these beautiful women, and they make you look quite dashing."
"Also, while we're here, let's keep to our true identities. These folks are probably not too keen to have Aspis folk around."
Linnea approaches the women, and from overhearing the conversation, figures that Zynep is speaking with the High Priestess.
Linnea finds the closest attendant and asks in her best grammar, "Pardon me, but to whom should I ask about procuring some escorts for an event?"
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Ernest dons the goggles and leads the way.
"I know I've heard that line before. Still, I need to remember to thank Linnea after he's done in the Overpowering Lady Brothel House."
Upon reaching the brothel, the even more overpowering Lashmistress is in view, as well as her attendants. Fortunately, Ernest is prepares to see scantily clad ladies this time, thanks to highly convenient fog that covers various areas.
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Meanwhile, Snouts continues to follow Luisia, because Ernest ran away like a putz. Some of these ladies smell like food. Sweet food, like bee juice. I will see if they also taste good.
Snouts attempts to taste one of the attendants while keeping his current food provider in line-of-sight. Unfortunately for him, the attendant continues to step out of the way as he gets close and can easily notice him attempting to get a free taste. Curses...
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Zynep will warmly and respectfully introduce herself and Luisila. She will state that she hails from Absalom and is interested in setting up trade market in Riddleport. While under the guise of a curio shop, this market would deal with the buying and selling of unique magical artifacts procured across Varisia and imported from Absalom. Zynep would like to also set up an arrangement for the import and export of servants of Calistria.
Zynep informs Pamodae that she does not require any funds from the Temple of Calistria. She freely admits to already having a partner in this deal, a Guaril Karela. Zynep insures that Karela is a trust worthy man who has many friends in Absalom and Varisia. Zynep has already brokered such a deal in Westcrown with Stingmadien Shivira Rilyn. Zynep only asks for for the Lashmistress's blessing in this endeavor. To make sure all transactions run smoothly, Zynep offers the House of the Silken Veil and 10% donation of profits earned. To sweeten the deal, Zynep offers a gift to Pamodae in the form of an Abrogalian corset once they've set up shop.
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Luisila kowtows before the Queen Bee. Her holy symbol clearly on display attached to a leather thong at her throat. In truth, she pays little attention to most of her sister’s “boring business talk”, somewhat distracted by the beauty and majesty of the Lashmistress.
This woman lives and breathes pain and vengeance, my girl. In this place her every whim is law.
Being tied naked to the foot of her bed and flogged for a week wouldn’t exactly be the most pleasant experience I’d ever have … but it would probably make the top five …
“Mistress, with hair like tortured midnight, this unworthy one pleads that you at least consider my humble sister’s offer.”
Linnea....
Linnea flags down a lesser priestess and asks for help. The woman points her in the direction of a small knot of people, telling her to ask Lashmistress Pamodae. When Linnea turns to find the person indicated, she sees Luisila and Zynep talking to that person.
Zynep....
Shorafa Pamodae smiles at Zynep. Guaril you say? You must be working for the Pathfinders, yes? Well darling, you may tell Master Karela that I do believe in his trustworthiness, regardless of what others may say. Tell him, I understand completely, dear Pathfinder. Is there anything else? All business and no pleasure? You Pathfinders are so stuffy, careful or you may lose the blessing of our goddess.
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Linnea waits until the Lashmistress has finished talking business with Zynep before addressing the Andoran request that she brings.
Once a the Lashmistress is available, Linnea makes her request.
"Oh, most gracious Lashmistress. I represent House Andoran within the Pathfinder Society. Major Maldris is hosting an event at the faction's new embassy next month. He asked that I seek out the Silken Veil in an effort to provide companionship for the event. The Major would like twelve of your finest escorts for the event. I am not able to negotiate any terms - I have only been asked to discuss whether you are able and willing to meet his needs. Can you meet this request?"
Not sure where Linnea ran off to all of the sudden, and unable to follow her, Roland goes back to Varg to make sure he is not alone in the strange town.
"Umm, Varg. I lost her. Do you know where zhe other three were headed?"
Roland and Varg....
Roland tries another song, but the crowd does not seem thrilled with the idea of breaking out into song. Dashing out the door he catches a glimpse of Linnea rounding a corner, heading east, deeper into the city.
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"Now that business is done, it is time for some fun. I am sure you have an 'audience room'? That strapping man over there is a friend of mine I said I would show around. Is there any way we can set up a Neapolitan for him? A busty blonde Andoran, lithe dark skinned Mwagian, and a full-bodied fiery red-headed Ulfen woman? I would love to see a man of his stature handles all three. It could be provocative or comical." The man she is pointing to is of course Ernest.
When Linnea approaches, "Oh dear, you are cute as a button. It looks like the major needs some belles for the ball. I think a good dose of sisters would liven up any event."
Lashmistress Pamodae turns to Linnea, So it is the Pathfinders. This can't be a coincidence. She says looking between the two women. Well aren't you just as pure as the mountain snow? She says smiling at Linnea. I find it humorous that Madris would send you to ask, quite humorous indeed. She runs a hand through Linnea's short-cropped hair. Yes dear, tell the Major that I can certainly provide him with what he needs... and deserves. She gives a little tittering laugh as if enjoying some private joke.
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Luisila feels invigorated after a visit to holy ground.
She places her hand on Linnea’s arm and smiles. “Ready, Thestil? You know we’ve got your back, right?”
Luisila then straightens up and in a somewhat more formal tone …
“So, Guv … What’s the plan? We swing by to pick up Cleaver and Roley, before finding out what Jenk wants with us?”
Before entering the Barracuda Cartage site, Luisila will ensure her bronze badge is clearly visible.
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Linnea, emboldened by Luisila's confidence and good nature, falls into the roll of Thestil.
"Well, we're definitely meeting up with those guys. I left them over at the Cypher Saloon. We'll get them and head over to Barracuda Cartage. C'mon, let's go."
Linnea also ensures that her bronze star is prominently displayed.
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Ernest takes solace in the fact that he did not have to be part of a risqué rendition of one of his favourite ice cream flavor. In a bad Varisian accent, he looks to Linnea. "Right-o, boss.
The party members all meet near the Barracuda Cartage at the specified time. Standing across the street, in the failing light of twilight, you see the Aspis Consortium’s headquarters in Riddleport. It is a dilapidated compound showing signs of recent repair. The cartage company’s main building rises three stories above the filthy streets. Behind this main building stands a coach-house large enough for four wagons. A weedy yard is enclosed by a high brick wall, but the large wooden doors to the yard stand open to admit new business, even in this evening hour. Beside the doors, a wooden sign reads, “Barracuda Cartage. Under New Management.”
As you cross the street and enter the yard, a group of six thuggish Aspis Consortium mercenaries loiter in the loading yard, overseeing a dozen laborers loading carts with a large shipment of fine sailcloth. They look suspiciously at the party, but upon seeing bronze badges openly displayed, the straighten the posture and give respectful nods to the party members.