Double dot
|
Incense hangs heavy in the air in a meeting chamber of Manaket’s Swordmeet Lodge, where Venture-Captain Obo stands before a low table. “I won’t mince words,” he declares as he strokes his graying beard. “This mission is of vital importance to the Pathfinders’ success in the Worldwound. The Society has many powerful spellcasters, yet few can compare to the Riftwardens in feats of demon-banishing. That Abyssal scar spawns many demons, and the aid of capable abjurers would be a great boon in our march to Jormurdun, the newly discovered Sky Citadel . When our leaders requested the Riftwardens’ aid, we were denied; too many of their wizards are already committed to Mendev’s cause.”
Obo’s face betrays his chagrin, and he continues. “However, in saying no, they tantalized us with a means of securing their trust and alliance. Several Riftwardens led by Jahani Jodinaj and stationed in Azir were recently preparing for a dangerous task, but they recently stopped responding to magical missives. Were we Pathfinders to investigate these Riftwardens’ disappearance, we would have performed a great service to be repaid in kind. Ah,” he notes with some pleasure as two servant carry platters of drinks and fruit into the room, “We have refreshments. May you find them to your pleasure.”
As he begins peeling an orange, he frowns and adds, “We have one potential ally in this investigation, though I doubt he will leap at the chance to help. A contact of mine recently spotted the former Pathfinder Eando Kline in the sook of Azir. He has donned the guise of a copper merchant and likely prefers a degree of anonymity, but he is also a very well-connected man; if anyone knows what ills have befallen the Riftwardens, it is he. Should he not wish to speak, tell him, ‘Sasha Antif-Arah sends her regards—healthy and alive from Andoran.’
“Beyond that, be careful, Pathfinders. The sands of Rahadoum are unforgiving, and the Pure Legion is even less so. Any questions?”
|
Hedra is beautiful human woman with eyes of different colors, black hair - loose on her shoulder - and of tanned skin. She's not very tall and she's clearly of chelaxian heritage.
She wore silken robes in brown and yellow tones, a small metal shield and at her side a beautiful longsword. On her neck a symbol with an winged open eye.
When she speaks, she's doing it with a melodious voice as beautiful and pure as an angel.
Around her, fly a winged Eye, looking at everyone with scrutiny.
She bowed gracefully to each of you, except to Oswin, and said
Greetings everyone, I'm Hedra Dreamcaster, cleric of Aroden. Before anyone said something she added and no, is not dead, even if some people have lost faith in Him.
Her last word were said more toward Oswin than anyone else in the room.
She continued I could provide healed to those in need even if I can't draw Aroden's power through me, as most cleric do. Also I'm more limited in what I can do than other cleric. Aroden is not as strong as before, asleep somewhere in the universe.
A small voice came from her side saying
He ! Don't forget us ! Aroden is great no doubt, but we also are here !
She smiled and added Forgive me Gamin. looking at everyone she said This is Gamin, my sword and my friend. He guide me and help me. And This she point to the flying Eye is EYE, Aroden's gift to me.
I. Am. Eye the Eye said
Listening to what the Captain said, she share what she knows about Rahadoum.
|
“This mission is of vital importance to the Pathfinders’ success in the Worldwound.
A ruddy coloured tiefling with a dagger twirling in his fingers can't help but chuckle as these words are once again uttered. "What mission this year isn't?" he mutters not too quietly before allowing the Venture Captain to finish the briefing uninterupted.
During introductions, he smiles, showing two rows of jagged teeth. "Name's Rikas. Just point me at what needs outta the way and my blades'll do their thing." To emphasize, Rikas flicks the dagger in his hand to claim an apple on the refreshment tray. With his tail flicking behind him from beneath his jacket, he retrieves the knife and teh impaled fruit. If what his teeth do to the apple when he bites it is any indication, it would not be pleasant to be on the receiving end of those chompers.
"No worries about findin' that guy. We shouldn't have any problems there. Convincin' him to help us, though? How'll we do that? Just that simple sentence gonna do it?"
|
|
Orik stands mute while the VC talks. He carries a large steel shield and a dwarven double war-axe. His red hair and beard are both long, and braided and it's obvious they are his vanity, like most dwarves.
Unfortunately, his voice is like rocks breaking, and his speech is less than clear.
"Wae 'ave ways o' makin' 'em what doan wanna talk tell oos all wae wan' tae noo, doan wae mae swee'." He seems to be whispering to his axe, but its hard to say exactly what words passed between them.
His attempt to find out any information about Radadoum goes laughably badly, so he listens intently to Hedra's debrief, nodding his understanding as the description of the Pure Legion is given. "Soun's like right 'ooner'ble fellas. Ken wae'll end oop inna scrap wit' 'em 'fore t'is is all oover, eh?"
|
The man named Oswin is tall with broad shoulders. He stands straight, his steel plate armor polished to a mirror finish. He carries a pair of very fine looking, but silent, longswords. He wears the sword and sunburst symbol of Iomedae around his neck, and his eyes burn fiercely.
"I am Oswin, son of Durnhelm, faithful servant of Iomedae the Inheritor. My faith is my strength and my shield. This Rahadoum seems a dangerous place for the devout. Would it be wise to hide signs of my allegiance, including my holy symbols?"
"Also, tell me of Kline. I have heard his name in passing. What grudge does he harbor against the Society?"
To Hedra:
"Truly? You worship the departed Aroden? Surely not? Had he an active connection to this world, I am certain the Inheritor would have revealed such to her church. She was, after all, Aroden's herald following he Ascension"
It is obvious that Oswin thinks very highly of his mistress. Yet his curiosity seems genuine.
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Muttering even more to himself, Orik stares hard at the tailed and toothy tiefling. "Speak oop? Speak oop, yae sae? 'Ow boot I cloot yae oon cher poonty noggin' wit' mae wee axe, an' then yae kin tell mae if'n yae kin 'ear mae 'r noot, yeah?"
While he fools around with the rogue, Orik is still carefully following the discussion about Aroden and Iomedae.
|
Ardisen has remained uncharacteristically quiet for the initial introductions, but finally he stands from his seat to join in the conversation, inclining his head to his fellow agents.
"If someone requires talking around, I imagine that explains my presence here. Lord Ardisen Greymore, pleasure to meet you all."
The Chelish noble is in his late teens, attired in the finest and most fashionable courtiers garments. His handsome face and charming smile are framed by his chestnut brown hair and his speech suggests an intelligence beyond his years. Somewhat out of place however, are a viper that coils calmly around the man's feet and the multiple tomes carried by the older Chelish man accompanying him.
Pausing only to take a brief sip of the refreshments, the noble continues.
"What my sources have told me of this place and it's residents certainly supports what the learned lady of Aroden has already advised. I'm afraid any outward displays of faith could prove problematic for those of you affiliated with the churches. However, while the Pure Legion are persistent in their duties, they are educated enforcers and may be reasoned with."
Turning his attention back to the Venture Captain, Lord Greymore echoes the query about Eando Kline.
"Who is this man and how is he so well informed on the Riftwardens?"
|
|
Hendra looked at Ardisen and said You may be good at talking but less at listening ! The Venture Captain said that Eando Kline is a former Pathfinder, as for knowing of the Riftwarden has a "copper merchant" in Rahadoum he could have knowledge of a lot of things. Oh and for your information I'm also good at takling to people.
Yes, she is ! said the small voice coming from the sword. As the Eye watched Ardisen emotionlessly.
She then turned her attention to Oswin and said I dont' blame you, but we, True believer of Aroden, call your divinity "The Usurper" for a reason. I will not engage a long theological conversation as our mission to find these Riftwarden is our priority, but I be will happy to discuss later of the matter with you Oswin.
Focussing on the mission she said
Without being able to use my magic will be problematic, but being the cleric of a believed dead God could have his advantages also, they could let me keep my symbol.
If someone have some gold left, I suggest to buy a Pathfinder Pouch. It's a small extra dimensional area who don't detect magical.
|
|
Ardisen narrows his eyes, quickly masking his offense at the comment.
"You may be good at talking, but your manners need some polishing. My listening skills are adequate, I am simply trying to learn more about our point of contact. An informed Pathfinder is a capable Pathfinder after all."
Despite his comment, the noble maintains a calm smile throughout.
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
At mention of the pouch, Rikas flicks a narrow finger up (not the rude one). "I've got one o' those. Came in handy smuggling other things into closed-minded cities. Ya can use it for your focuses if ya want. Don't think it'll fit the shield, though. Command word is 'toffeebutter'."
He playfully adds to the young man, "S'alright, I stopped listening much there at the end, too."
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Having finished eating his orange, the Venture-Captain fills you in on Eando Kline.
"Kline was once a Pathfinder, but his philosophies conflicted with those of the Decemvirate and inspired him to leave. It was not a pleasant parting of ways, and I understand the wounds he bears are still raw; be careful not to rub them with salt. Also, here - take this sketch of him, it may help you."
The simple sketch he provides you is depicting a handsome Taldan man sporting a short beard.
"I'll leave the how of his convincing to you, agents. I have faith in your abilities. That's why we summoned Ardisen Greymore for this mission. He's one of our most trusted diplomats."
|
|
Ardisen nods gratefully to the Venture Captain.
"Thank you, you honor me. I'm sure Eando will be swayed when he realises the severity of the situation, regardless of any bad feeling towards the Society. We won't let you down."
The noble steps back allowing his fellow Pathfinders to finish asking questions. As he waits he selects a couple of pieces of fruit and passes one to his porter.
"Eat up Alfonso. You'll need your strength."
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
The heat of the midday sun accentuates the strange juxtaposition of salty sea air and dry, desert wind, just as the Rahadoumi caravans mingle with sailors from a dozen lands to make the markets of Azir a bustling, cosmopolitan hub of western Garund. The city’s edifices ranges from old constructions rejuvenated with elegant murals and exotic carvings to much newer buildings built with irregular angles and acute corners that combine to create an elegant mosaic of art and architecture. A vibrant soundscape overlays this visual effect, combining the sound of men haggling over baskets of dates, camels bleating in protest to their handlers’ commands, and the chorus of seagulls that soar overhead in search of an easy meal.
Once your ship arrives in Azir, several port officials begin performing routine tasks and inspections as a pair of Pure Legionnaires come to ask you some questions. "Welcome to Rahadoum. Anything to declare? Any religious texts, icons, or other objects that you may be bringing into the country must be declared to us, according to our Laws of Man."
|
|
Ardisen smiles at the Pure Legionnaires and shakes his head.
"Nothing to declare my friends. We're just a group of travelling companion's here to visit an old associate. We know better than to carry any such iconography."
While the enchanter lacks any items that could get them in trouble, he tries to put the guards at ease to avoid them having to deal with a full search.
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Hedra put her holy symbol in Rikas' pouch. She was not at ease without it, feeling powerless and almost alone.
We know the rules Legionnaire and we will avoid trouble. May I ask you if my companion here she show Eye could be linked to a Faith ?
The winged Eye looked at the Pure Legionnaire, saying.
Eye. Follow. The. Law. If. Legionnary. Said. Yes. Eye. Will. Stay.
|
|
Before leaving, the Venture-Captain would have answered that question, of course. Divine spellcasting is a serious offense in Rahadoum, one that is punished by deportation or a very heavy fine. Less severe crimes such as proselytizing, smuggling religious goods, or openly displaying religious images (such as symbols on armors/shields or holy symbols) instead result in a smaller fine and a public flogging. A second offense results in double the punishment, and a third in deportation.
Pleased to hear what they want to hear from Ardisen's honeyed mouth, both Pure Legionnaires are happy to explain the rules states above, and say that it wouldn't be any trouble if something was declared now, but that said item would just be kindly requested to be put away from public view for the duration of your stay in Rahadoum.
|
|
Oswin nods and declares one holy symbol, his wooden one going in the pouch. He places it in his pack instead of its customary spot around his neck. While he doesn't feel too different, he remembers how often he would absently handle it. As a conduit for divine power, he is used to having it very close to hand.
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Ardisen nods in agreement.
"I might have a contact or two here that can point us towards him. I'll ask around, see if we can locate a merchant that matches his description."
After finishing up their business with the Pure Legionnaires, Ardisens will begin asking around local merchants and taverns, reaching out to potential contacts, to locate a man matching Eandos description and "profession".
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Not here. We must respect their believes and the Law Rikas.
We will use them only if it's a question of Life or Death. But thanks for the proposal.
Eye pointed its inquisitive eye on Rikas and said : Always. Expect. Trouble. With. Chaotic. Creature.
Hedra respond to Eye's comment by saying
Don't be rude Eye, he's trying to help us.
And Gamin, her sword, added :Yes, he's a good fellow ! Look at his horns and teeth !
|
|
Rikas just grins. "Law is binding. Chaos is liberating. Need I remind you, Eye, that law is the whole reason Hedra and Oswin have their focuses in my bag? Law is too rigid to allow us to do what we need. ...aaaand I'm arguing with a floating eyeball."
-Posted with Wayfinder
Law. Is. Law.
|
|
"Wonderful retort. I'm convinced." Rikas shakes his head with the sarcastic remark and chuckles. "Let's find the guy."
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Overhearing the conversation, the young lord chuckles at the airbound eyes comment.
"He's got you there. Law is law, regardless of how you feel about it. The trick is ensuring that the laws work to your benefit, rather than your detriment."
Briefly breaking from his enquiries, the Chelaxian appraises the creature.
"I'm curious Hedra, how did you come to earn the company of such a creature. It's not of our plane, it's an inevitable if I'm not mistaken?"
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Don't worry Rikas, it's been a long time I tried to make him learn the grey area of the law without success.
Said with a smile Hedra.
Gamin added : Yes, me too ! But it's of the stubborn kind this one ! Ha !
Hedra turned her attention to Ardisen and said
Yes, Eye is an inevitable. He's Aroden's Gift to me. Through it I could access to His Power and even question Him.
Without it, I'm powerless. Eye is my link to Aroden and my Symbol the key to It.
|
|
There are many copper merchants, but you find no one that knows a man whose description matches the sketch you've been given. Instead, your best lead to start your investigation lies at the House of Lady Jodinaj, one of the Riftwardens who disappeared and whose name was given by the Venture-Captain. Her house is an attractive house surrounded by a low wall. Upon calling there, you meet Lady Jodinaj's majordomo.
"Greetings, outlanders. You are at the House of Lady Jahani Jodinaj, but she is not present at the moment. What can I do for you?"
|
|
Oswin addresses the majordomo.
"As my rough-spoken friend has said, we represent the Pathfinder Society. Please excuse the intrusion, but we are seeking your mistress on a matter of some urgency. Have you any idea if she is expected here soon?"
-Posted with Wayfinder
|
|
Surprised (and secretly frustrated) that he has been unable to locate Kline, Ardisen relegates himself to visiting the lady.
"It's quite alright Rikas, Orik has every place to say his piece. Sometimes it is best to speak up and get straight to the point."
Following on from Oswin, Ardisen continues.
"As my fellow Pathfinders have already pointed out, we are looking for your Lady. We are aware of her affliction with the Riftwardens and our concerned for her safety since she has stopped replying to missives. Perhaps you could share what you know and we could help ensure your good Lady's return?"
-Posted with Wayfinder
She. Speak. The. Truth.
Said Eye to help