Only a handful of other Pathfinders, most of them initiates,
walk the halls near the office of Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin.The Grand Lodge’s chamberlain sits behind an organized desk,
reading a recently printed chronicle, and tapping his finger on
an elaborate open envelope, the only sound in the eerily silent
Pathfinder Society headquarters.
“Can you believe this place?” Valsin calmly asks, keeping his
eyes squared on his chronicle. “Almost every agent worth her
salt is off in Varisia right now. I bet you the Heidmarchs’ manor
has more Pathfinders in it than this place.”
Valsin finishes his reading and places the document on the
desk, while sliding the envelope forward.
“Desna smiles upon us that I have you fine agents here,
as I doubt anyone else in Absalom is better qualified for this
mission. I won’t lie, this is probably one of the trickiest tasks
I’ve ever had to send a group of Pathfinders on, and much rides
on its success. I need you to attend a wedding. And not just any
wedding, mind you, but a Blakros wedding.”
“The Blakros family is one of the wealthiest families in
Absalom—in the entire Inner Sea region, even—and we’ve
cultivated a good working relationship with them over the
years. In two days, Michellia Blakros is getting married to the
former Hellknight Damian Kastner, and because of security
concerns, we only got our invitation this morning. I won’t bore
you with specifics, but sufficed to say, the Society has a lot of
interest in this wedding, as some of our agents had a hand in
helping it along.”“The wedding is taking place on a secluded summer retreat on nearby Pariol Island, which the Blakroses own. There are two
boats heading there before the first wedding festivities. One
is a small supply runner set to leave in an hour that could get
you there early tomorrow morning. The next is a larger ship
that will transport the majority of the guests in the morning.
Your travel is paid for of course, but you’ll need to get on one
of those two vessels.”
With a grave nod, Valsin passes over the envelope containing
the invitation, and continues. “Also, you’ll need to peace-bond
any weapons when you arrive on the island, and I’d recommend
only wearing your finest armor, if you wear any at all. We’re
not too concerned about security at the wedding, but making
a good impression on the Blakroses and their guests is key to
your mission. You’ll need to mingle, and get on the good sides
of as many people as you can. I can’t stress this point enough:
This is a social gathering, and the Society could really use the
extra clout with all our current efforts being so far abroad. I
don’t care if you save the wedding from a dragon, find out the
bride is a doppelganger, or discover some grand plot to take
over the Inner Sea—I only care that you leave this wedding
having made people happy and improving our standing among
the attendees! Are we understood?”
He waits around a bit in case any of you have some questions for him.
Also, you may make Knowledge History or Nobilty checks
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You see a half-elf with a hint of wild in his appearance, especially his silvery hair and sideburns. His armor has bits of horn and covered with markings from the far East.
Closeby, there is a cougar that follows Fendahl closely, watching for commands or an occasional treat from his companion.
"Hrrmm, yes Venture Captain, understood. A social event and not a military raid. Very good. I still have my finery from my last mission with the Lantern Lodge. Is there any benefit to our taking the smaller ship to arrive early or larger to have more access to the guests? I am leaning towards the smaller unless an argument is made to the contrary. "
To answer your question, the one ship leaves very soon, if you take her, you won't have time to buy anything before you go, but you will be there before most guests and will have some time to explore the island. If you take the ship that carries the guests, you will have time to ready for the wedding, as well as getting a chance to mingle with some of the guests on board. But no time to explore the island before the festivities start
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You see a squat Tian man, wearing monks robes leaning against one wall. His short hair and wild sideburns make him look feral, and the look in his eye reminds you of Fendahl's companion. The thing that sets you at ease is the easy smile on his face, that seems all too natural.
Understood, Captain Valsin. I too have appropriate attire, then turning to his compatriots, The name is Fung. Good to meet you all!
To be honest, while I like socializing, I have little skill in "hob-knobbing" with the upper crust. The longer that I am exposed, the more likely my lack of skill will be exposed. But I will do my best to not embarrass the Society.
You may also view that of Kronk
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Well, all, I do know a little bit about the Blakros family. I was present at the Grand Convocation, when Michella's suitors were lobbying for her favor, Fung laughs a bit, as if remembering good times, The Blakros family is one of the wealthiest families of Absalom, and own the infamous Blakros Museum. In a bit of political maneuvering, I believe that the Decemvirate wishes us to put on a good face for them, so that the Society can rely on their backing in the future. A bit to note, should you refer to the happy couple, bear in mind that anyone marrying into the Blakros family takes that family name, regardless. Whether they are male or female, or high status or no, it is their custom.
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"Hrrmm, very good Master Fung Xi. Your knowledge of the Blakros Family will help in our endeavors. I seem to have misplaced my ceremonial attire, so I may need to take some time afterall, to shop and then mingle. I am hopeful that there is no issue with bringing along my companion." Fendahl says as he nods towards the lioness and looks inquisitively at Ambrus Valsin.
Each of you are handed the following piece of very well made, and very well decorated paper
The tailors keep their remarks to themselves, staying professional. You do get the feeling that thy want to be done with you as soon as possible.
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There is a gruff 1/2 elven man chewing a wad of tobacco, his blue over coat is very weathered and beginning to fray at the edges. He peers out from under his wide brimmed hat and with a nose that looks to be broken from a few too many bar brawls.
"Be the face for the society... That's rich. I ain't so much the people person type *chuckles*. Alrighty so outfits to make us pur-dee."
-Will be put the character sheet shortly
-nice to meet everyone
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Fendahl bows in Tien fashion as he addresses Fung Xi and Ditena...
"Hrrmm, yes Masters Fung Xi and Master Ditena, it is with great honor that I travel with you. I recently travelled with Master Jory to defend the Kirin and Lantern Lodge, but with their departure from the inner sea, I have offered my service to the Qadirans. "
He nods towards lion.
"Kirrah and I traveled from the near East, and spent much time on a quest for perfection, an artifact of legend. . "
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Fung laughs, I have been trying to cultivate a reputation of the "Lion of Goka"! How appropriate to have a true lion to learn from!
A wistful look falls upon his face at the mention of the Way of the Kirin and the Lantern Lodge he smiles sadly, I miss the lanterns... I plan to pay tribute to Lady Amara Li with my new monk's robes. I am getting them embroidered with the symbol of our old lodge.
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I don't usually git smitten with them far eastern girls, but woo wee lads that Lantern Lodge mistress will be surly missed. I too dun some favores or missions for that beautiful dame, hell I'de be lying if I said I wasent enthrall-ad w'her. Thats a fine idea 'membering that clan by putt'n it on yer clothes. Hell just may get a likenass o' her tattoo-ad next to Bertha. *rolls up sleeve revealing tattoo of a large topless cowgirl riding a bull with a lasso spinning above her head*. She is sum'thing else.
Right. So what you fellas do? I am a crack shot with my flint lock. Can shoot the fleas off a dogs back fromm a 'undred yards. Learnt a 'bunch about fool'en magic items from an ol'kook back home, can do scrolls and wa-nds fine but after that I be hit ore miss. Hey you them ruff an tumble Kung Foo types from Tea-and? Boy *tips hat* 'mpressive fighting, had the luxatuary of venturing with one, can't say his name to do it any justice, but that boy could throw down! Things jest got brighter.
-would like to purchase the courtier oufit and jewelry (80gp) when it becomes possible.
-if anyone becomes annoyed with the purposely miss spelled redneck-ish way I am typing please let me know, just having fun with it. He for lack of better words is a southern civil war type if that makes it easier to digest.
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Fendahl looks at the half-elf and his tattoos and guns and restrains himself from pulling his katana at the disparaging comments made about his former leader, Amara Li.
Patience is needed here Fendahl, patience. This is a social event, we must show restraint no matter how difficult it may be.
"Hrrmm, Master Ditena, a tattoo of Venture Captain Amara Li would not tell quite the same message as that of your...your Bertha and her unique capabilities. Maybe engraving her name on one of your pistols would be more suitable?"
Fendahl looks around...
"If we have all our supplies ready for the trip, we best report to that larger party ship and take our quarters."
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Fung laughs heartily, I was always partial to Lady Amara's niece! Amara Li gave me a home, and a purpose. For that, I will be forever grateful. I hope to win her niece's heart one day too!
With a wink and a grin, the stout monk continues, And as for your other question, I come from the Land of Heroes, Quain, where no village is even considered a village without at least two fighting schools! I was raised to be the Master of the Eastern Wind...
With that sentiment, the smile fades from his face, But that was not my fate. So now, I am on the journey to become the Lion of Goka! Fung strikes one of his many stances moving with grace rarely seen by the common man.
Taking the cue from Fendahl, Fung's smile returns, Well then, shall we?
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Hey well I'll be hog swoggled and dipped in turds! That is a rit on gem ove a thought! No dissreespect but would one o' ewe fellas mind righting out 'sumtin in that drawring talk, karectures. Che went on fer a yarn 'bout honor; like a drawring tat says "Mae the honor of Amara Li guide me shot".
No desrespect hon wanting a tatu of her. More ove a 'memberance of the cervice I did fore her. Back home tats a big honor being tatued on a gentileman's arm. It's much different thare, we ain't got no tee fur one we got the shine or mash. *opens door and politely jestures" after you"* Hehey now tat'll put sum hair on yer chest, an' give ewe a kick in 'the britches.
Wow what a great idea! That is a right on gem of a thought! No disrespect but would one of you guys mind writing out something in the Tian language of characters? She was always talking about honor; could you write "May the honor of Amara Li guide my shot."
No disrespect on wanting a tattoo of her. It is more to remember the services I completed for her. Back home that is a big honor being tattooed on someone that admires you. My homeland is much different than yours. We do not drink tea, we however have very strong grain alcohols. Be wary of drinking too much grain alcohol, it packs a punch.
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The dwarf smiles at the mention of Amara Li.
"I did a small service for the Lantern Lodge. I still belong to the Grand Lodge, but I have not been happy with they have me do lately."
He looks at his gaudy robe with a hood: "This fine robe will do. I can't be expected to change finery for every social occasion, can I?"
The dwarf issues the last question as a challenge.
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*To Jory*
I thinks the palished look helps for hunting tail at these he-vents. Ev-re brass button tis like its own trap. You may want tew change yeaur tune.
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A tall, leathery skinned man of obvious Infernal heritage, but bearing the symbol if Sarenrae prominently on his chest, steps into the room. He casts a quick, discerning eye over the group before nodding to himself. Well met. I am Bazresh, though most agents I have worked with call me Baz. I overheard the Venture-Captain orders. I too will need to purchase some finery for this affair. I will follow when you are ready.
Same as Fung
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Welcome to our little group, Bazresh, Fung smiles, You are the second of such heritage to bear the Dawnflower's symbol so brazenly, at least that I have met. She does offer much to overcome the past of your ancestors.
Fung makes a pass through the cloaks, stopping at one with blues and gold trim, Perhaps this one will do nicely, and it's in the Dawnflower's colors. All that would be next would be for some polish to shiny up that armor of yours!
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Whole-heatedly! When I arrived in Absalom, I was a worshiper of Irori and Kofusachi, the laughing god. But there was something about Sarenrae that drew me to her, Fung hooks his thumbs in his belt with a smile that seems ever-present, Her philosophies, they ring true to my heart. I became a member of her church a year ago, and spend time offering healing services in my off time.
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Jory retrieves two wands from a pouch on his belt. "I, too, would benefit from the armor of mages and the light healing. Those of you who have helped Amara Li are friends of mine."
Jory looks around, "Do we not have an arcanist that can use the armor of mages? Well, I would hope we can find a way to activate these."
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*To Fendahl*
Wear you gonna have yer tieger when the cervices are undur way? I figure tat the powears tat be are gonna raze a hairy eyebrow at him prowlen' around the reseption; and as much as I dunnot like the eyedear of going without armamants that same hairy eyebrow is gonna fallow my flintlock around.
*Pats backpack*
C'here this is a majik backpack, store all manear of things in'it won't way no'more. If any of ewe wanna put cyour weapons and what not in'it we won't look tew c'specious. So'long as tat tieger don't mistake it asa bit'o rawhide maybe he could gard it so nobody ther gits sticky fingers and we ain't karring around a backpak all dressed to the T's. Plan on keepin' a stash of scrolls in my jackit packit, may bee that heeling wand in my boot. Whatta y'all think?
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Mr. Jory, no need to be nervous! It's a wedding, it's not like we are representing the whole of the Society or anything, Fung says with a toothy grin.
Having changed into his formal robes, the red and yellow silks catch the light in a way that it seems that the embroidered lion almost seems to move of its own accord.