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Seated behind a large but simple palm-wood desk, venture-captain Norden Balentiir awaits for the agents assigned to join him in his office as the sun sets upon Sothis as he combs over one of many weathered, beaten scrolls.
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"A true adherent of the Eye lives seconds ahead of others," Says a particularly short Gnome wearing an exquisite purple fez-style hat; it has a strange symbol made of precious metals and stones embedded in it, like a highly stylized eye.
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"I heard my services were required," a tall ifrit drawls as he enters the office. His skin is the color of beaten bronze, and his hair looks like a true fire, tossing and flickering about accordingly. "When the Society calls upon Bailey, it is usually a matter of importance. Someone whose help we need, but can only be earned by my honeyed words? Or perhaps something to be burned to the ground? I'm not saying a city, nor am I necessarily saying not a city."
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The door opens and a tall, imperious woman in noble's safari attire strides in. She is followed in by a woman in clerk's attire, and glasses.
"Thaiadora Rossenvelt of the Egorian Rossenvelts. This is Alfris my secretary. She will be taking the minutes." the woman says, making introductions. "I am here. You may begin the briefing Venture-Captain Balentiir."
No doubt it is unimportant.
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Ollo stumps into the room as Thaia imperiously declares the meeting started. As he moves past her to a chair, he looks over his shoulder and say "Well, ain't we tha important one??" Settling into his chair, he nods respectfully to Venture Captain Balentiir. "Happy ta be o service, sir. Ollo Hammersong's me name. What in tha dickens ya got fer me now?"
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The Venture Captain raises an eyebrow, but nods in acquiescence. "Very well. I would lie to begin by thanking you all for coming. As you may know, an agent from the Concordance of Elements - one Jamila al-Shafah - attempted to sabotage us by leading the Society into a trap in the deserts to the east, in pursuit of two of the lodge's historical artifacts: an abacus supposedly belonging to the Pharaoh of Numbers and the Sandstorm Codex." He nods towards the gruff dwarf and the contemplative gnome. "You can thank Agents Hammer-song and Trismegitis for resolving this is an altogether... Bizarre? Unorthodox. Yes, unorthodox manner. I'll allow them to brief you on the details of the mission themselves. Nonetheless, Jamila is a janni who was once on good terms with the Pathfinder Society, and I cannot imagine why she would turn on us so. Nevertheless, I would appreciate your tracking her down and discovering her cabal’s goals. I spoke with some of my colleagues and I believe she went to Armun Kelisk, a metropolis on the Plane of Air, to convene with other members of her organization. I’ll need all of you to travel to the Plane of Air to pick up the trail."
He gets up and walks over to the window to look upon the crimson sky. With his back turned to you he continues: "While you are in Armun Kelisk, I have another important task for you." With a motion of his hand, a scroll upon the table levitates slowly towards him, before unfurling to display the image of a rather large gem. "This is a sketch of the Untouchable Opal. It imprisons the good-aligned lord of air, Ranginori, and is now in our possession after our ... expedition to the comet. If we can find a way to release Ranginori, he may grant us his blessing, making the outer reaches of the Plane of Air more hospitable for us. Armun Kelisk’s numerous libraries are an invaluable place to start our investigation into the Opal."
He turns around, his dark brown eyes taking stock of each of you in turn before continuing. "A friend of the Society by the name of Jairo the Enlightener has arranged your travel to Armun Kelisk, and he will meet with you once you arrive. He is a scholarly djinni with many contacts that should prove useful. His taste in wine is also second to none. I advise exercising discretion though— we do not know who may be allied with the Concordance. Do you have any questions?"
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"Well, ain't we tha important one??"
"Please reserve your 'cunning' for that which your folk are most familiar with--dumb stone, and leave wit for those more capable. Time is coin. And I do not waste coin."
The Venture Captain raises an eyebrow, but nods in acquiescence. "Very well. I would lie to begin by thanking you all for coming. As you may know, an agent from the Concordance of Elements - one Jamila al-Shafah - attempted to sabotage us by leading the Society into a trap in the deserts to the east, in pursuit of two of the lodge's historical artifacts: an abacus supposedly belonging to the Pharaoh of Numbers and the Sandstorm Codex."
"And what fools fell for that?"
He nods towards the gruff dwarf and the contemplative gnome.
"Oh. carry on, captain."
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The ifrit pulls a pristine flute from his backpack and begins to twirl between his fingers, seemingly uncomfortable. "How do those from the Plane of Air feel about fiery sorts like me? When I was sent on my last mission, to the Plane of Earth, no one decided it was important to tell me they were at war with the City of Brass. So I had to deal with a bunch of racist oreads and shaitans. As well as a vindictive captain who happened to be an Aspis agent."
Pausing, Bailey shakes his head, trying to rid of any thoughts regarding his previous assignment. "More importantly, how are we to access the libraries? Hopefully they are open to the general public, but my luck has run thin of late, so perhaps not."
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Ollo turns towards Thaia with her comments. "We were not fools, we were simply following tha leads. And, I'll have ye know.. we made it out of there without a fight, and e'en got tha blasted elemental types ta agree ta sit an talk instead o drawin' us inta their fight! Haroomph.."
He settles himself once more in his chair, and turns towards Bailey and his conclusions. "I been feelin' a bit o tha luck meself, fire boy. An I agree with ye.. these elemental types.. no offence intended.. can be a bit tricksy, an their words always have several meanings. We may need a little something ta twist some arms if'n me tongue waggin' can't do tha trick."
Finally, Ollo returns his attention to the VC. "What obstacles may be in tha way o gettin inta tha library, and what tools or tricks ye think we may need out there?"
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"Armun Kelisk is... A bit of an interplanar commercial hub. So while you might be victim of any one individual's preconceptions, there is no generalized discrimination towards Ifrit. The city is home to djinn, but it has a sizeable population of sylphs, gnomes, elementals, and mephits. A diverse population to be sure. Sultan Zafer XXXVIII rules from the Sussurran Palace and he is known for his epicurism. You might run into trouble with emissaries of the elemental lord Hshurha, duchess of All Winds, who commands the entirety of the Plane of Air. But what we are doing should be under her radar and she herself rarely meddles into mortal concerns anyway" replies the venture-captain as he grabs a date from a nearby platter.
"As to how hard it will be to get into the libraries... I am not sure. I do think the worst you will have to deal with will be a lot of red tape. However, were I in your shoes, I would be concerned with the scope of searching through all the libraries in the city." He pops the date into his mouth, and munches on it quickly as he mulls over his next sentence. "Armun Kelisk is not just a center of commerce, it is also a center of learning. Imagine having to pour over the entire contents of the libraries of Sothis to find information, likely carefully buried information. You would need weeks to even make a dent. You'll need to coordinate with Jairo to reduce the scope of your search. I'd bring a smooth tongue, a keen eye and a sense of discretion."
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"I've heard of Armun Kelisk, actually, though I confess my knowledge is little beyond superficial. It is the largest settlement on the Plane of Air, and is divided into seven different districts in the form of an archipelago of islands in the firmament: the Lower City, the Cyan Keep, the Silversky Markets, the Luminous Court, the Cirussean Ward, the Godsward, and the High Palaces."
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After Agate arrives and seems less likely to pass out from exertion, Ollo hands her a flask. "Drink hearty, sister. There ya go.. Breathe.. Tha's a good lass. Now.. Nice ta meetcha. Glad ta have a rock sister ta travel wit!"
Ollo takes his flask back for a drink himself before stowing the much emptier container back into his vest. 'Capt'n? Ye wouln't happen ta have one 'o these crystal keys lyin' about, would ye?"
"Pardon. Is that: H, A, R, O, O, M, F?"
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The venture-captain blinks. "Key? What in the Starstone's name do you mean?" Upon explanation, Balentiir's eyes widen. "Oh. Well... I do not have one of those. I suppose it would be best if you didn't have to venture within that part of Armun Kelisk. But if you do, you will have to speak with Jairo as to how you will do that."
He turns to the paladin and smiles enigmatically. "Jairo has arranged for transportation to the plane of air and the city itself. I won't spoil the surprise, but if you have any purchases you need to make, now is a good time. I would also advise you hurry, as the transportation might get restless."
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Agate arrives at the meeting point looking refreshed. Over simple traveling clothes, she wears a broad girdle of gray silk with metal plates sewn into it, an amulet of polished grey stone in a gold setting, and a dark cloak with silvery specks glittering in it.
Next to her pack, she carries a light crossbow slung over one shoulder. On her belt are a dagger, a quiver of bolts, and a leather pouch much like all wizards seem to carry.
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Upon Pavo's return, Venture Captain Balentiir invites you to follow him to his garden, where a golden carriage pulled by four pegasi awaits you. "I am told that travel will be short. There is food and the finest drink within, but I would suggest you rest."
The pegasi paw at the ground impatiently as you board on in, and soon you find yourself in flight over the night sky of Osirion, which quickly shifts and changes as your vehicle traverses the veil between the planes. An endless sea of blue sky streaked with hues of stunning gold, vibrant rose, and smoky indigo greets your vision as your soar through the plane of Air. Soon, you come in sight of a city suspended in the sky, surrounded by a great sphere of glass and what appears to be stone, honeycombed with immense openings. Distant orbs of light twinkle like stars, and floating islands crafted from crystal, silver, and ice gleam in the twilight. As you approach closer and pass through the sphere, you make out Djinn soaring past winged gondolas and flying horses, easily navigating a labyrinth of majestic buildings and the many bridges that connect them. The air is heavy with the scent of incense and spices, and the echo of music and laughter drifts upon the wind.
The carriage glides past opulent structures crafted from marble and clouds, where curious young sylphs and mephits sit perched on windowsills, waving to passing travelers. The pegasi neigh and slow as a cluster of docks come into view. The port is crowded with throngs of airships and the merchants strolling among them. As the carriage comes to a halt on an empty platform, a djinni dressed in resplendent clothing approaches with a smile. Offering a low bow, he clasps his hands together as he greets you: "Welcome! I am Jairo, and it is such a pleasure to be your host while you stay in my beautiful city. Allow me to escort you to your lodgings where you can rest." He pauses and looks around warily before adding in a whisper: "And also where we can speak in a more... Private setting." Standing back up, he grins as if nothing happened. "Follow me! My servants will take care of the carriage" he continues joyfully, motioning for you to take a seat aboard an immense flying carpet.
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"The other planes do seem much fancier than ours, with buildings made of precious metals and gems wherever you look," Bailey notes, his fiery hair waving wildly in the breeze. "I would like to visit the Plane of Fire one day and see it, hopefully in an equally magnificent state. Good to meet you, Jairo."
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Jairo bows his head. "Perhaps one day you shall, child of two worlds. It is good to meet you as well. In fact, I would say it is good to meet all of you. And after the service your society has done for me, it is a mere token of my esteem to host you here." Once you are all seated, he seats himself up front, bobs his head and the carpet begins to rise until it has reached a certain altitude and sets off towards the Luminous Court. As you fly to your next destination, he takes great pride in pointing out various areas of interest, all both exotic and beautiful.
You finally arrive in the inner courtyard of a silver villa. Standing up from the carpet, he motions for you to get up and follow him to an antechamber, with tables laden with elaborate foodstuffs and drinks. Swathes of jewel-colored silks billow from the ceiling of the parlor with matching plush pillows scattered across the floor. Jairo quickly settles atop a large amethyst cushion and gestures to the array of refreshments laid out on their shining trays. The aroma of mint wafts up from a steaming silver teapot, while candied fruit and sugared confections sparkle atop tiered plates. "Please, honored guests, sit and help yourself to whatever you like. Savories, sweets — there is a bit of everything to please, I imagine." The djinni motions towards the tables and the teapot flies into his outstretched hand. Without looking he motions towards a polished porcelain teacup and pours the sweet tea before distributing them among you.
"Ah, but there is business to discuss, is there not? Norden told me you wish to learn more about a rival faction and also an artifact. I do not know about either, I’m afraid, but I have arranged for you to join me at the Grand Symposium Gala tomorrow in the Cirussean Ward. It is an event that local aristocrats are hosting to celebrate a newly renovated wing of the Azure Hall, our finest library here in Armun Kelisk. There will be numerous scholars and dignitaries present who may be able to aid you in your quest."
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"What would these important people stand to gain from us in exchange for their assistance?" Bailey ponders aloud. "I suppose the Society can usually find a way to return favors as favors become needed. We shall see. But perhaps you have information regarding these people, good host?" The ifrit's gaze turns from his teacup and fruit-laden plate to Jairo as he focuses his rambling. "Anything important about 'em you can tell us beforehand?"
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Ollo rests through the trip to the plane of air making easy conversation with anyone interested, but eagerly views the approaching city and the wonders within upon arrival. He bows to greet their host, thanking him for his generosity before mounting the carpet and partaking of the Djinns offered refreshments.
"Are there any like ta be present tha you could introduce us ta? Kinda smooth tha way, so ta say so we ain't blunderin' about in tha dark and steppin on toes."
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"Well, obviously a better attire would be necessary" replies Jairo soothingly, but with a critical eye towards Pavo's current attire. "Less "I'm here to fight it out with my opponents" and more "I am a paragon of refinement" if I may be obtuse. I happen to own a number of outfits, along with their matching jewelry I would be most happy to lend to you for the occasion." Turning to address Agate, he continues: "A scholar! Oh no no no, you are mistaken my dear. I am but a humble ally of your society. I owe your organisation my freedom from Muhlia Al-Jakri; my interests are varied and diverse, but I am certainly no scholar. Think of me as a facilitator. Someone who can and will point you in the direction of some people of note. As for the library, it is the repository of thousands of years of knowledge, as recorded by scholars from the Plane of Air. While others may have histories that are as long, none are as varied and rich."
He takes a sip of his fragrant tea, mulling over his answer, before finally answering Bailey. "Sometimes, an exchange of information might be worth a task. Sometimes, such an exchange might be worth little more than the air used to convey it. And often times, in the hands of the unwise they are worth even less than that. These people might be willing to offer information you do not have just as a way to distract themselves. Sometimes they will talk as a way to assess who and what they are dealing with, and how this fits in with their plans. I will be busy with my own affairs at this soiree, but I would be a terrible host indeed if I were to just drop you in without anything to guide you. Thus, let us begin. Muhnyr! Bring some of my evening outfits. And be tasteful this time" he orders a large elemental who bows and floats away.
"Almoshtari. Dearest Almoshtari. She happens to be an invisible stalker and an avid historian. She drapes herself in colorful fabric and streaming ribbons and prefers to talk with words that are at the limit of her understanding. A darling otherwise. Much like Fairuza. Fairuza Bereket. She is a darling too I mean. Soft spoken, I have never heard her utter a word in anger. She happens to work in the Azure Halls. I am sure she is very happy to see the renovations come to an end."
"Ghassan El-Amin is a djinni much like myself. He's one of the archivists of the Azure Halls, and a surly person all around. He will be present as well. I wonder how he was made to be in the presence of so many people, but indeed small miracles do happen. He likes to keep to himself and will no doubt be scowling at Lineji Niarndu one of the museum curators. What a paranoid gnome she is. Always believing that people are there only to steal her secrets. Silly girl. And of course Vivek Vallathol. He is an air veela and an archaeologist. He loves talking to newcomers. And making a fool of himself."
He takes another sip of his drink before continuing: "Other than those people, I cannot imagine anyone else of note present, at least not from the museum staff. However, perhaps Mithradatha, Wan Feng or Zhalla ibnat Rathmozen might be present. Those three aren't scholars but patrons of the arts. Nobles if you will. Mithradatha is a djinni but he has let himself get outmaneuvered by a mortal: Rathmozen bint Zuurmat." Jairo chuckles. "If the two are present, expect there to be a large space between them. Not that they are any closer to Wan Feng. He is an Imperial dragon of some sort, and both despise him. He despises them both as schemers of the worst sort of course. As for Zhalla ibnat Rathmozen, if she weren't as vain perhaps she would see the wisdom in not antagonizing the other two. But she must learn as we all must at some point. Her father wields considerable influence though" he muses idly.
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Ollo listens carefully as their host speaks, outlining the personalities that may be of help. As Jairo fades into silence with a sip from his tea, he speaks up. "So, I'm hearing to look fer Almoshtari, Fairuza, and Vivek Vallathol, but ta steer clear o' Ghassan El-Amin and Lineji Niarndu. And If'n we want ta stir tha pot a bit, ta mebe play Mithradatha, Wan Feng or Zhalla ibnat Rathmozen against each other??"
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"I would never be so bold as to tell you what you have heard, but I will say that I am merely ... Separating the chaff from the wheat if you will. Anyone of these can provide information of use to you. As to Rathmozen bint Zuurmat, he is a powerful wizard in his own right, and an elf. A shrewd one if Mithradatha's current condition is accounted for."
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Bailey looks through a small rack of outfits, gratefully accepting Jairo's offer and selecting one for later use. "Seems simple enough, before execution," the ifrit says to no one in particular. "That will likely be harder, we don't know what exactly lies ahead. But I'm sure we can figure it out. These people can be won over yet."
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In sheer awe of the grandeur around her and the prospect that she had been chosen for the honor of such an assignment so soon after such lackeying as fetching wine for Drandle Dreng, Alexis finds herself at a loss for things to say, and so settles instead for enjoying the fine tea and fruits, double-checking her grimoire, and working on her puzzle book.
Darned twisted logic in those puzzles....
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Jairo nods and finishes his tea. "The child of embers has the right of it. Now, let us determine which of these" he continues, gesturing at the elemental servant who has returned bearing many different robes and suits alongside hundreds of pieces of sparkling jewelry "will look most flattering upon you. Muhnyr, fetch the privacy screen in the second guest room. Asking our dear guests to move to and fro would be in surprising bad taste."
By the end of it all you all lent a noble's outfit, complete with assorted jewelry. Naturally, the djinni does point out that only certain weapons, and certainly never armor, can accompany such clothing. It is late by this time, and your host invites you to rest within rooms he has prepared for you. Plush pillows filled with the softest down cuddle your heads as silken sheets cover you. The night is restful and uninterrupted. By the time you wake up in the morning, anything left with the carriage has been placed outside your rooms. You are expected for breakfast, but otherwise have the run of the city until the evening.
Landing right besides Jairo on your own flying carpet, you cannot help but feel a twinge of regret that there wonders are only on loan from your gracious host. Looking around, gossamer pavilions populate a chain of verdant floating islands. Finely dressed djinn hover among cascades of pale blossoms showering down from pearlescent trees. Sylphs stroll along the slender bridges connecting the many platforms. The steady hum of chatter fills the crisp air as Jairo, having docked his carpet by the outskirts of the park, joins you dressed in the finest of attires. "Leave the carpets here. It would not do you any favors were you to accidentally crash into the crowd. Although the ensuing scene would make for a remarkable evening." The djinni turns to the throng of nobles and scholars with an apprising gaze and a thoughtful smile. "I have some associates I must meet with, so please excuse me. Enjoy the party and feel free to mingle. As we discussed, I’m sure there are plenty of people here who can to offer you some useful leads for your research."
It doesn't take much effort for you to spot those persons of interest that Jairo mentioned. The question now becomes how you will approach them.
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Agate inquires over breakfast whether daggers are on the list of weapons that can be worn at parties. If so, she will wear hers. After breakfast, she spends some quality time with her spellbook.
Cantrips: Read Magic, Detect Magic, Message, Arcane Mark
Level 1: Comprehend Languages x2, Feather Fall, Shocking Grasp, Protection From Evil
Level 2: See Invisibility, Knock, Web, Blur
On arrival at the park, she nervously straightens her unfamiliar garb as she steps off of her carpet. Turning to the other Pathfinders, she says, "I'm no good at glad-handing the nobility; I'll stick with talking to the scholars."
Who first, though? Ah, that Almoshtari sounded friendly enough... and this might be the only chance I ever have to speak with an invisible stalker...
