This is my dot.
Inside a meeting room at the Pathfinder Society headquarters Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin stands at the end of a long table. To either side of him stand Lady Gloriana Morilla and
Major Colson Maldris.
“Thank you for coming, Pathfinders,” Valsin says, gesturing for everyone to sit, though he remains standing. “As you may have heard, we recently discovered the location of a lost dwarven Sky Citadel. I won’t demean your intelligence by stating the significance of this discovery, but suffice it to say the potential rewards for exploring the site are staggering.”
He turns to face a map of the Inner Sea on the wall and pokes a location with a loud thump. “Unfortunately, the Sky Citadel is located within what was once Sarkoris—the demon-infested region now known as the Worldwound. After a long debate and careful planning, we began to recruit military aid to push into the demon-haunted land so we could reach the site; however, before we could make any significant gains, Mendev’s wardstones—a collection of minor artifacts designed to keep the demons from pouring out of the Worldwound—began to inexplicably fail. In short, there’s a hole in the dam and demons are trickling into Mendev in greater numbers. With Mendev under this new assault, we realize that in order to reach the Sky Citadel, we must aid the Fifth Crusade and help turn back the demons.
“Since the nations of the Inner Sea are not reacting expediently to the danger presented by the newly invigorated Worldwound, a small cadre of concerned Pathfinders— including Trade Prince Aakir al’Hakam, Paracountess Zarta Dralneen, the Sapphire Sage Amenopheus, Lady Gloriana Morilla, and Major Colson Maldris—have united to leverage their influence. With my support, they plan to petition the Grand Council of Absalom and persuade them to issue an executive order to send soldiers to Mendev immediately.
“To increase our chances for success, we called in a favor from the Blakros family, who remain grateful to the Society for recently saving the marriage of Michellia Blakros and the Hellknight Damien Kastner. The newlyweds have organized a dinner party with an impressive guest list to be held at Fiddlemourn Manor. Lady Morilla and Major Maldris will attend, and they plan to use the feast as an opportunity to convince some of Absalom’s elite to support the upcoming motion. We need you to mingle with several important guests and befriend them so that they are more disposed to throw their support behind the Fifth Crusade. These special guests include Senator Augustyn Naran of Andoran, Lady Vaelia Wintermark of Taldor, Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar, Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq, Lord Rothos of House Vastille, Lady Darchana of House Madinani, and Dremdhet Salhar, the Grand Ambassador of Osirion.
“The feast is tomorrow evening. Though the Blakroses are handling security, we want you to attend in your full adventuring regalia to help solidify your role as representatives of the Pathfinder Society and lend credibility to any claims you make regarding your knowledge of the Worldwound and the worldwide threat it signifies. We also expect you to provide additional security if it’s needed.”
Valsin levels his solemn gaze on everyone at the table.
“Remember, this is a social gathering. It’s crucial that we make a good impression on the guests, win their support, and improve the Society’s standing with them. Without their support, our motion to the Grand Council is doomed to failure.”
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The slender elf gulped as he heard the assignment. This one certainly wasn't playing to his strengths, unless there would be some hidden catacombs at needed exploring before dinner. Perhaps they know more than I, he thought as he looked around at the others. "Anyone here a social butterfly? That's not exactly my strong suit, I'm afraid."
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"I ..might..be able to be of some use in a social situation"
a raven haired woman with silver colored eyes says with a subtle smile on her face in response to Ruprecht's question
"So provide additional protection and make a good impression on the guests, win their support, and improve the Society’s standing with them...we should be able to do so."
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The last time I went to a social occasion such as this we barely avoided a disaster... Ah well, what the hells. It wouldnt be the first time I finish a mission with a completely imcompetent lot...
Asmodan thinks to himself.
"Haha! Hah! Hahaha!"
A loud, obviously fake laugh echoes through the room.
"Sorry, Sorry. My apologies. I don't mean to appear rude but... As it seems, the Society has to once more depend on it's most notorious drunkard to take care of its parties. Besides, no one here has more skill with seducing nobles than I."
As he makes a swirling bow, The tall man with puffy eyes haughtily glares around the room, inspecting his would-be companions.
"Anybody wants a drink?"
Accompanied by a wry smile, Asmodan grabs some bottles and glassware from his backpack and fixes a drink for himself.
"Alright, Go on, I'm listening. Aren't we supposed to get some extra info on the people we need to convince to support the motion, yadda yadda hmm?"
Alright, no questions. Remember, your secondary mission is to back up the manor's security forces. This means you are expected to wear your armor and weapons. Just make sure they’re clean and presentable.
Fiddlemourn Manor’s exterior walls are of mortared gray bricks, and the interior walls are covered with smooth, white lime plaster with a 4-foot-high light maple wainscoting. The windows are shuttered. Doors are of heavy oak and carved with images of galloping horses. The adventurers are expected to arrive an hour before sundown. When they do, Damien and Michellia Blakros await them, alongside Major Maldris and Lady Morilla.
Welcome to Fiddlemourn manor Damien says. Please allow me to introduce you to Tespren he says, as he motions to a friendly and polite gnome who captains my guard.
Tespren takes the adventurers on a tour of the manor, and although friendly, he is also dedicated and single-minded in his job. ()
About an hour after the party arrives, the first guests trickle in, and each of them is announced by name as they arrive:
Lady Vaelia of House Wintermark
Lady Vaelia is venerable and frail and walks with the aid of an ebony cane. She wears a stylish green- and-blue gown, a fortune in jewelry, and her late husband’s battle-notched masterwork falcata (though she is too feeble to wield it).
Lady Dyrianna of House Avenstar
Lady Dyrianna is a stunningly beautiful, slender half-elf who wears a constant look of satisfied amusement. Her emerald-green gown and matching lace shawl are surprisingly conservative, but very elegant. She appears unarmed.
Lord Rothos of House Vastille
Lord Rothos is a tall, handsome man in his late forties, wearing formal attire and a black military- styled longcoat bearing his family crest and many military decorations. A longsword hangs from his belt and the silver-chased hilt of a dagger peeks out of his right boot.
Scion Lord Kerkis of House Damaq
Lord Kerkis is a thin, wiry Keleshite in his early fifties, with a neatly trimmed beard and bushy eyebrows. He wears an expensive, Keleshite-styled, loose-fitting silk robe, a jewel-covered silk vest, and a gold-bladed ceremonial scimitar at his belt.
Lady Darchana of House Madinani
Lady Darchana is a cold, pale beauty with piercing gray eyes and long blue-black hair. She wears solid midnight-blue wizard’s robes and a dazzling mithral tiara studded with rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. She appears unarmed.
Grand Ambassador Dremhet Salhar
Dremdhet Salhar is a heavyset man with a well- oiled hair and beard. He and his wife the Lady Anilah both wear matching gold-embroidered silk robes in the Osirion fashion, as well as a fortune in gold rings, necklaces, and other jewelry. Salhar wears a jeweled mithral short sword at his belt.
Making a point to arrive fashionably later, finally Senator Augustyn Naran of Andorran is announced.
Senator Naran is an obese, constantly sweating man in his late sixties. He and his stunning bride wear very expensive formal attire: he wears a stylish gray-and-black suit and she wears an elegant royal blue gown studded with silver beads and glittering jewels. Naran wears a gold-pommeled silver rapier at his belt that looks like it’s never seen a real fight.
Now is the time to mingle with these guests, for which there is some opportunity.
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Ruprecht drains his drink and takes a deep breath. What's the worst that could happen, besides being drummed out of the Society, and my faction, and .... Shaking his head, he approaches his Osirion mates. "Greeting Grand Ambassador and Lady Anilah. Pleasure to meet the two of you. Obviously as one of your on, I have heard a great and many wonderful things about the two of you. Of course, they didn't do justice to your great beauty, Lady,a nd to your regal countenance, Grand Ambassador. I am Ruprecht Antillious, here representing the interests of the Pathfinder Society, willing servant in the battle of the Fifth Crusade!"
Diplomacy
The Society you say? Dremhet casts a sideways glance at lady Anilah at his side, who bears a courteous smile. For a brief moment she looks back, her face turning momentarily serious, then returning to an undisturbed state. Dremhet responds Pleased to meet you, mister Antillious. What is your little organization's involvement in this occasion? He speaks in an overly formal tone, with a slight hint of condescension.
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"Sir, we are to provide security, although I'm sure by the looks of your beautiful sword, you wouldn't need our contributions. But, between you and I, I appreciate the opportunity to enjoy a relaxed evening, before having to turn my attention full time to the threat of the Worldwound and the demons pouring out of it. That is the main focus of the Society currently. If that isn't stopped, all of Golarion will suffer the horrific consequences."
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Seeing Ruprecht off, Asmodan looks around for a guest that peeks his interest. As soon as lady Darchana enters he straightens his cloak, clears his throat and walks to greet her, throwing his most charming smile.
"Good day, Lady Darchana. I am Asmodan Galadon, Pathfinder of the society. We are dispatched to ensure your safety for this feast and we do so with pride. However, we were also sent here with a secondary mission. You see, as you might know, the Society has recently become involved in the terrible, terrible dealings at the worldwound and it needs allies in this endeavor.
My job is to convince you and other influential guests to give your support to our cause. I am certain that in this, our goals are aligned. Having the word out that your personal aid in this matter not only helped a great many innocent people... this could be profitable for your reputation. Do I have your support? I promise I am speaking nothing but truth."
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(Ruprecht)
I am sure you are to provide security, as well as further your own agenda. Dremhet retorts. He seems suspicious of Ruprecht's motives. Your efforts to the benefit of the Ruby Prince have reached my ears, and for that I am thankful. You would be wise to keep the interests of Osirion at heart. The dismissal of Amenopheus from the service of the Ruby Prince has hurt our efforts badly enough.
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(Asmodan)
Lady Darchana, the second spell lord of Absalom and the Archdean of the Arcanamirium, turns to Asmodan and looks at the aasimar with a piercing, grey-eyed stare as the latter speaks. We must speak lightly of such things, for promises are easy to make and hard to keep. She gestures Asmodan to keep a low volume and walks to a quieter part of the room Golarion is in peril, and there are forces at work - alien minds and dark souls - that may weaken the very fabric of this world.
Our goals are aligned, so if the stars shine favourable... she stops mid-sentence, drops a smile, and then just stares at Asmodan.
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Thekk carefully studied the behaviour of Senator Augustyn Naran, prominent member of
the powerful banking family House Naran. He stands aside his much younger wife, Dalessa. Dales is his fifth wife, and it is not secret that Naran's current visit to Absalom is, in fact his honeymoon.
Naran is known to be a philanthropist, and immensely popular with the Andorran people. He also has a vast network of government officials and Andoren military leaders. Today, however, he seems to have dropped his veil of politician, and is instead behaving like a foppish, condescending aristocrat. On top of that, he's clearly showing off his wife, and indulging in the food and drink.
It's quite clear to Thekk that this man has no interest whatsoever in the Mendelian Crusade. For all the man cares, it is a high-risk endeavour that can only lead to political disadvantage. It will be impossible to sway this man.
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My lady, believe me when I say that I have nothing to lose. And by the hells, when is Golarion not in peril? It seems that for every alien mind and dark soul we put away in the Dark Archive, two more rear their ugly heads. No, Lady Darchana, it would truly surprise me if the stars would shine favourably on this petty old soul of mine, if only for a change. But I do believe in the here and now, and here and now we stand, whispering in a corner as if discussing the greatest of evils. What is it, milady, that prickles your mind? Anything I can be of assistance with? Here, let me make you a drink, it's a favourite of mine...
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Dremhet
"I too am saddened by the removal of Amenopheous. I only wish I were present at that moment and could have tried to sway the argument to his favor. Don't worry, sir. I always look to Orision's interest...that's why I am still bothering you at such a nice party. I believe those interests dovetail with that of the Society for the time being. The WorldWound must be closed, or there might not be the opportunity to meet under such pleasant circumstances, I'm afraid."
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Elena will move up to Lord Rothos
"Greetings Sir. Allow me to introduce myself. My name" Elena bows " is Elena Rasputin. I am a member of the Pathfinder Society and as such I'm tasked with providing some additional protection for the people here. But since it doesn't seem that a man such as yourself" Elena glances at the longsword at the mans hip "won't be in need of my services in that area I thought I would at least allow myself the pleasure of making your acquaintance before moving on to someone more in need of my particular skill sets."
(If possible/allowed to use orisons before moving towards him add another +2 for enhanced diplomacy)
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(Asmodan)
The grey eyes of the of the second spell lord betray a hint of tiredness, then says we must be discreet with these matters. The agents from Sarkorian, she says, using the old name by which the Worldwound was known have spread throughout the lands. The lords are slow to act, and until they do, there is little the Arcanamirium can contribute. She barely suppresses a sigh as she speaks these words.
(Ruprecht)
And who will be coordinating such an action, hmm? Profiting from the proceeds? Do not for a moment think that I do not understand what the society's aims are, I am far too experienced not to see through these machinations. Dremhet says in a downright condescending tone.
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(Shadow Lion)
From afar, the samurai studies the clearly military man, Lord Rothos. Unfortunately, he fails to glimpse more than he already knows: Lord Rothos is the Captain of the First Guard,
Commander Militant of Absalom, and patriarch of the prominent Vastille noble family. He is attending the feast alone
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(Elena)
Would be that my services were needed here. Lord Rothos replies stoically.
What good is talking of action, while Mendev is burning? These are worrisome times, and they require the utmost vigilance. he says, and then adds approvingly I am glad to see you take your duty seriously.
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(Alafair is a last-minute addition, she'll be around shortly...)
Darchana once again shows that enigmatic smile as Asmodan leaves. In the corner of his eye, he sees the venerable lady Vaelia.
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Keeping track:
1st Influence/Study:
Ruprecht - Influence Dremhet (fail)
Asmodan - Influence Darchana (success)
Thekk - Study Augustyn (success)
Shadown Lion - Study Rothos (fail)
Elena - Influence Lord Rothos (success)
Alafair -
2nd Influence/Study
Asmodan - Influence Darchana (success)
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Elena nods at Lord Rothos words and bids her goodbye to the man and moves on to the next person
As Elena approaches Lady Dyrianna she nods and then approaches further when she knows the Lady has noticed her and she won't be disturbing her.
"Greetings Mylady, allow me to introduce myself. I am Elena Rasputin of the Pathfinder Society. As such I and my fellow society members are here to provide added protection to this event. I hope you don't find our presence unsettling, let me assure you that we can be quite discreet and resourceful when needed. And I must say your emerald-green gown and matching lace shawl look quite stunning on you."
(If possible/allowed to use orisons before moving over to talk add another +2 for enhanced diplomacy)
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Asmodan goes towards Ruprecht first to try and consolidate him.
"Hey fella, don't take it personally... at least your not as awkward as the dwarf... You know what? After all this is over, I think we deserve some proper entertainment. What, say, we visit the temple of Calistria later, hm? I think I'd be up for a new record..."
He says with a grin.
Although it's going to be hard to get any better than those tiefling twins from last week!
"Now if you'll excuse me, I have to go make sure our dwarf, what's his name, Tekk? Thokk? ..doesn't make us look worse than we already do. Why don't you keep our raven haired beauty company while she uses her charm and wit?"
He slaps Ruprecht on the shoulder with a sympathetic smile and turns to find the dwarf, before a thought stops him in his tracks.
"Say, where's that grim looking samurai fella gone to? He's not making a fool of himself, getting wasted is he?"
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(Elena)
And greetings to you. I had noticed your presence, and I was wondering why the guards in this manor consisted of such diverse forces. Now my riddle is solved, and I feel all the safer for it. she states with a playful tone in her voice. I know the society to rarely act without ulterior motives, though I doubt you would be at liberty to discuss them, hmm? The Lady is clearly curious.
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Floating into the cocktail party, fashionably late, and dressed in the lastest fashions, wafts Alafair. Her long white hair is piled on her head, and her evening gown leaves just enough to the imagination to be provocative without being shocking.
She tips a wink to Ruprecht remembering him from their recent excursion to Ustalav where the Midnight Mauler was successfully retired.
Seeing a familiar face in the party, she grabs a cocktail and approaches Dremdhet Salhar and his pretty Osirian wife Anilah.
"It is so good to see you again, Lady Anilah and looking some much better than when we found you in the belly of that terrible Katapeshi slave ship. I am glad to see you have not been otherwise harmed by that incident, and it is wise of your dear husband to show his gratitude by supporting the Pathfinders venture in Sarkoris, is it not?"
(Alafair)
Dremhet makes a brief painful face when reminded of the slave ship. For a moment, he drops his suspicious stance, though he remains somewhat patronising Might I remind you this is a festive occasion? No need to bring up haunts from the past, young sorceress. I must admit my indebtedness to the society there, though I would wish certain choices... he sighs the presence of Amenopheus on state matters was invaluable, and I am cut off from that resource now.
Where before he was highly suspicious, he seems more receptive of the pathfinder cause now, though not completely convinced.
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Keeping track:
1st Influence/Study:
Ruprecht - Influence Dremhet (fail)
Asmodan - Influence Darchana (success)
Thekk - Study Augustyn (success)
Shadown Lion - Study Rothos (fail)
Elena - Influence Lord Rothos (success)
Alafair - Influence Dremhet (success)
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2nd Influence/Study
Ruprecht -
Asmodan - Influence Darchana (success)
Thekk -
Shadow Lion -
Elena - Influence Daryanna (success)
Alafair -
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Shadow Lion will approach Lady Vaelia. "It is an honor to have you join us Lady Vaelia," he says with a formal bow. "You will have to forgive our attire as we have been asked to provide security for this event. If there is anything you may need or if you have any concerns please do not hesitate to call on me or one of my fellow Pathfinders."
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Ruprecht sucks it up and follows the samurai up to the Lady. "I have much more formal attire I would have been more comfortable in for sure," the alchemist nods, holding up his arms to show his armor and clinking as his numerous potion bottles bang against themselves.
"It would be the pleasure of the Society to seve you milady," he exclaims, trying to execute a formal now that he had seen the others try.
Aid Another Diplomacy
(Shadow Lion, Ruprecht and Thekk)
Then why are you speaking to me? the frail old noblewoman coldly replies isn't your proper station on the lookout?
Get me an amuse, Tamuel. she orders her elderly manservant, who, shooing away the Blakros servants, sees to Lady Vaelia's every needs.
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As the meet-and-greet reception comes to a close, Damien Blakros steps up and speaks Honoured guests. It is with great pleasure that I welcome you in Fiddlemourn Manor, this great estate of the house of Blakros. It is a dark portent that has brought us together, for word has reached us that the wardstone of Nerosyan has fallen, and that demonic scum once more pours forth from the Wound of the World. Again, Golarion must stand against the demonic threat or be devoured. But fear not, as the Hellknights still stand strong. Let's not forget it was the order of the Godclaw that drove back the horde during the first crusade...
Damien continues to placate the guests with the endeavours of the various hellknight orders throughout the Mendelian crusades. A Michellia picks up on the guest's boredom, sh interjects and says Dinner, indeed, will soon be served. May I invite you to take your seats as we set them out for you?
The prominent guests each move for their reserved spots, but the society merely has signs 'Society Member' put out, giving the adventurers some freedom to choose their seat.
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Alafair approaches Scion Lord Kerkis. Despite her obvious Taldor leanings, and his Qadirian roots, she tries to flirt successfully with the older man.
"I am sure the needs of the Society are greater than the petty differences between our nations, Lord Kerkis. In fact, were we to join together, I am sure we would each benefit mutually, and the Society will no doubt be better off. I am willing to throw down my sword and shield and wrap my enemy in my arms if you are..."
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Asmodan follows suit with the other pathfinders. When he sees lady Vaelia sitting at a table alone however, he quickly apologises to the group before promptly taking a seat next to her:
"Excuse me lads, lasses, I want to try this special tactic I reserved for times like this.."
Here goes nothing...
Asmodan softly whispers in Vaelia''s ear.
"Say, lady Vaelia, brightest of all the stars, most beautiful creature. Would you do me the pleasure of dining together with you, before we set off into an intimate adventure even a bottle of kyonin oakenstar couldn't prevent? My passion burns strongly... Will you join me in the society's cause against the worldwound?"