A rash of missing apprentices plagues the Isgeri town of Saringallow, and there are rumors of enormous vermin lurking in the alleys. It’s up to the heroes to uncover the sinister plot at work—and to stop the terrible Abyssal corruption at its heart before the entire settlement is overrun.
Players who play through the entire module and apply all three Chronicle sheets to the same Pathfinder Society character earn a fourth Chronicle sheet that must also be applied to that character. GMs who apply all three Chronicle sheets to the same Pathfinder Society character also receive this bonus Chronicle sheet.
In Absalom, each of you just signed the dotted line on your Pathfinder contract at your respective lodges when you were quickly notified to report to the Grand Lodge if not already there, for a rush assignment.
As yo enter and announce yourself you are sent into one of the many side rooms for your briefing. There is a desk with a stack of books and papers on it and a short person sitting behind the desk. The short senior pathfinder agent seems pre-occupied in that room reading through a stack of tomes. It is hard to tell if it is a gnome or a halfling or even if it is a male or female the way it is dressed.
After a few awkward moments of silence one of you cough politely to alert this short fellow of your presence.
"Apologies... I got carried away doing some research for a future mission...most dangerous and not for the likes of you all..." and you now believe it is a male halfling.
"Please sit and we will begin. Not good to tarry over something like this. Would any off you like some tea and crumpets? A quick nip of brandy? Gnomish kind mind you not the flat dwarven version." and he motions for you all to sit in some chairs however there appear to only be 4 chairs in the room so some of you stand.
"Now then. My name is Pursnikkitty and I only just learned you all were new agents. Oh well, do the best you can do on this. Any of you been to Isger? If not then you will soon. There is a town there called Saringhollow, or Sarenghetti, or Saringallow yes that's it- Saringallow. The Society is trying to develop some inroads into that town and area but the locals have rebuffed our attempts as of late. Thus we were surprised to receive notice, rather discreetly I might add, from the town Mayor, a one Sandra Trinelli, sounds delicious, that the town may need some help in some missing persons... or apprentices... or workers... I don't recall... people are not where they should be or are not at all... yes something like that. Regardless... the town reached out to the Society and the Society reaches out to you. Go to the town and do what you can do to resolve this little dust up of missing persons and whatever else can be done to help them so we can establish a presence there. There are some references about the town in some of those books on the corner of the desk." and he points to some old dusty tomes.
"Read up and depart soonest. Ask any question to the Mayor when you get there. Time is always of the essence on Society business. Good day to you." and he continues doing his research and forgets you all are there.
LN large town
DEMOGRAPHICS
Government autocracy
Population 2,110 (1,800 humans, 200 half-elves, 60
gnomes, 50 other)
NOTABLE PERSONS
Apothecary Majara Pricknettle; Father Ildris Ruvarra, Cleric of Erastil; Mayor Sandra Trinelli; Tavern-Keeper Alcie Kruptin
MARKETPLACE
Base Value 2,200 gp; Purchase Limit 10,000 gp;
Spellcasting 3rd
SPECIAL QUALITIES
Long Memory The people of Saringallow have a deep-seated
hatred for members of House Sarini. Any
such individual who makes his presence known in
town is attacked and if they survive this
attack are warned and unceremoniously dumped
outside the town’s walls; those who return are
subsequently hanged. Similarly, residents look upon
other nobles with suspicion, and known nobles
visiting town must pay 200% of the normal price for
goods and services and may face mockery, insult,
or even violence.
|
Still learning the social norms of the Golarian society, a mottled green and brown frogman smelling of earth enters the room and immediately takes as many crumpets as he can hold. He ignores the others in the room, and the chairs, and decides a bookshelf will make a more suitable seat. He starts to talk, crumbs falling out of his mouth and spraying everywhere. "Mmmfm what's with people going missing all the time? My last mission was to find some missing druid! Ended up being dead but at least we found him! I wonder if this person is just dead too? It helps to know if you're just looking for a body." He stops to wipe his hands on the pages of the closest dusty old tome.
|
Sat leisurely in one of the offered seats is a tall, lithe Ifrit that has very slender features and eyes alive with flame. Wearing the trappings of a Sarenrite priest, with a long flowing robe edged in golden flames and a well wrought Scimitar at their hip, the Speaker is silent as the agent explains their mission and shows little reaction to his snub. Despite being slender, the long robes hide much of their figure, making gender hard to discern.
When they speak it is with a soft and level voice. "How terrible. Isger may yet be plagued with dark forces and the flames bid me to go and see to it that darkness is purified. Let us make haste fellow agents of the Path, for I feel we are needed."
|
A not so tall man with huge mustaches wearing an heavy tabard of sorts sips the brandy slowly before speaking with thick ustalavian accent:"So... let me see if I got this straight... you want us to go to Isger, ask around for the mayor and then put ourselves to her beck and call, and basically gain her trust for the Society... Nor that I care as long as I get paid but I don't see how this qualifies as exploring or discovering ancient artefacts... but again, as long as i get paid I won't complain too much"
|
|
Wolgang chuckles at her compaion's words:"On the contrary. Up in good ole Ustalav being one of them bloodsuckers is rather illegal for example. And being an orc is almost as bad. There always people conviced them living dead don't exist... some going as far as claiming they are just "misunderstood"... then they meet one and you get to put them down with a bolt to the head as they come for your brain..."
the halfling looks up from his tome for a second and says "You are all still here...? I thought you all had left already..."
|
A thin woman with flowing dark hair wears a rapier at her waist and a neutral facial expression, almost as if her mouth is incapable of either a smile or a frown.
"Must we bring our personal political opinions into a Society mission? " she wonders.
"While this is my first foray, I would anticipate we will all get along well if we will keep to the mission at hand. For instance, the briefing from our gender-neutral halfling mission secretary seems quite vague and/or confused; the literature regarding Saringallow is sparse, at best; and this Grippli has just joined polite society and has yet to learn that his already heavy accent is made more difficult to understand with a mouth full of biscuits. Good day," she says to the halfling as she turns to leave.
"I am Eris Adler, by the way," she adds. "This is all a big game, one at which I intend to excel."
The group travels towards Isger using funds provided by the society to cover the cost of their journey. They manage to get along quite well for the most part and learn many things of each other. Eventually they arrive at the town of Saringhollow and after a bit of questioning find the office of the mayor and present themselves to her (location 16 on the map).
The plush red carpet and oak furniture upholstered with velvet lend this room an air of comfort, but it’s also clearly a place of of business, with several layers of administrative papers, staff memos, maps, and charts covering the wide surface of the solid desk in the center. From her tall-backed chair behind her desk, Mayor Sandra Trinelli looks up, shaking herself out of a deep concentration. A subtle look of relief ashes across her face as she motions to the oversized chairs in front of her.
“Normally, I’d exchange more pleasantries with my guests, but I fear there is no time,” she says. “The business that brought you here is quite urgent—it may actually be a matter of life and death.
“Let me explain. You may have heard that several young apprentices from various establishments in Saringallow have disappeared in the last couple of weeks. Every one of them has failed to show up to work, and nobody seems to know where they’ve gone.
“That’s not all. Rumors are spreading about sightings of enormous insects roaming about town. So far, the townspeople have chalked up such rumors to overactive imaginations, but I fear they might be real, and that they might have something to do with the missing apprentices. I have no proof that the situations are connected, but if folks get that notion into their heads, things are bound to spiral out of control.”
She shifts nervously, as if avoiding an uncomfortable implication, before continuing.
“Please, I implore you to look into this matter quietly and thoroughly— find out where our apprentices have gone and discover the cause of our vermin problem. Don’t jump to conclusions until you have investigated every possible angle; we need to be absolutely sure that we know who or what is responsible before we take any necessary law- enforcement actions.
“I suggest you start by interviewing the masters of every missing apprentice on this list I’ve compiled. I suspect that, collectively, they might shed some light on the youngsters’ whereabouts. That could in turn illuminate our vermin problem, but until we have more information, I caution you against suggesting to anyone that the two situations are connected. Beyond that, though, you have my full cooperation in this matter. If anyone gives you guff about your line of questioning, show them this letter.”
The mayor pushes a scrap of paper with several names scribbled on it across her desk, as well as a rolled-up, ribbon-bound letter written on thick parchment. (see current slide 2)
“As far as an incentive,” the mayor says, “I’ve pooled together 50 gold pieces as a reward for each apprentice you manage to nd and rescue, as well as an additional 100 gold pieces if you can determine the cause of our vermin problem — and eliminate it. Do we have a deal?”
|
|
The Speaker shrugs elegantly and places their now empty glass upon the Agent's research table before getting to their feet and smoothing down the creases in the flowing robes they wear. With a nod to the pre-occupied agent, the Speaker follows the two others from the room.
"I am the Speaker of the Scarlet Flame, I was keeper of the Everlight Oasis before the Flame Goddess informed me I had a different path."
During the voyage to Isger, The Speaker spends time with anyone that will permit them, asking of their own journeys and dreams for the future. At Dawn they pray to Sarenrae, weaving a Dance into the prayer that borders upon combat practice.
Entering the Mayor's Manse, The Speaker keeps silent as the Mayor explains the current predicament in the Town. Nodding at the preparations made, the Speaker takes the letter from the table and hides it amongst the flowing robes of their station.
"This seems very well planned Mayor, we will endeavour to bring your missing souls back to you and as for Vermin, I assure you they are not above us." The Speaker answers as they consider who to talk too. "Have you any information on these Masters? Anything that may help in our talking with them to avoid any unpleasantness?"
|
|
As the group leaves the Absalom's Lodge Wolfgang shares his name with the others:"Seems like we'll have to spend some time together in the next weeks. I'm Wolgang, and my job is... solving problems"
Once in Saringallows the ustalavic man listens to the mayor's explanation before asking:"This is all very well but I'd like some clarifications first: these vermins you speak of, what exactly are they? How big? Also the fact only appretices went missing seems to suggest some sort of design, why not old people or the like?"
|
|
Though the grippli listens intently to the entire briefing from the mayor, the only thing he seems to care about is the mention of the giant insects. "Giant insects? Were they dragonflys or grasshoppers?!? Grasshoppers get extra crunchy this time of year, really quite delicious. Or what about bloat flys, have you seen any of them around? Mmmm bloat fly stew, just like my grandma used to make for all 36 of us! Don't worry your mayorness, I'll find these insects and take care of them for you, it will be the best feast you've ever had! Do you think maybe the apprentices were just hungry and went looking for these tasty insects?" He spends the rest of the meeting jotting down notes on a piece of parchment and muttering to himself, trying to remember all the ingredients he'll need to gather.
|
|
Eris maintains a neutral expression as she listens to their instructions.
"The game is afoot," she observes. "Perhaps this is worthy of my talents.
She considers their options, then says "These apprentices...do you mean wizarding apprentices, or for trades like carpentry or taxidermy?"
Turning to Sammakko, she says "Once we find the insects, I can assure you that you can eat all of them...all alone by yourself, preferably."
|
|
The Speaker shows the list to Eris with a smile, abashed at having forgotten to share it with their companions. They sit patiently awaiting some more information from the Mayor on their current assignment, not wishing to let a small detail escape their notice that would later lead to a greater disaster.
"The apprentices are from various trades around the city," The Speaker says softly, "One or two may be the young going to find their fortune, however this many does indeed seem serious."
The Mayor ponders all the question and then says "It is correct that the apprentices are learning various trades. Let's see... Petrello Pindlion runs his haberdashery. He is not nearly the most prominent nor successful haberdasher, but his is the only one with a missing apprentice, who also happens to be his daughter, you should ask him any questions regarding his daughter- that would be his duty to help as a father." she says.
"Majara Pricknettle is our foremost apothecary. The gnome came to town several years ago, fleeing the carnage of the Goblinblood Wars, and she had her now apprentice, Gellion, with her. She's made a good life for her and her ward here in Saringallow... the townsfolk have all but accepted her as their own by now!
"Alcie Kruptin is the proprietor of the Witch's End Tavern. She's quite the imposing figure, at well over six feet in height. Her food is phenomenal.
"Gunty Keronna runs the largest bakery in Saringallow, and rules his five apprentices with a stern hand. He is a veteran of the wars, but even his injury doesn't slow him down from making what he calls 'the heartiest damn breads this side o' the river'.
"Father Ildris Ruvarra has been our priest of Erastil for over ten years. He is a down to earth man, and is selfless in his role as the town's healer. His apprentice is his adopted daughter, Nolaria Wintren.
"'Dependable' Drummady Laterna is the town's most successful cobbler. She has a reputation for very sturdy footwear at reasonable prices. She is also willing to repair any shoe bought from her store at steeply discounted prices. Her business really took off three years ago, when she split with her husband, Petrello. Her apprentice is Pavolus, her son, while Petrello took Betrona as his apprentice."
"As for the insects, I have no idea where they are coming from, unfortunately. As to their nature, I am not a woodsman or nature specialist. I haven't gotten any confirmed reports, I've only heard rumors up to this point. You'll have to figure this out, as I cannot do the investigation myself. Again, please be discrete about your investigations." she says, with an almost leading tone.
The mayor replies to the age of the apprentices, "They are all about the same age... I wouldn't call them children, but they are definitely just young adults. It is my understanding that they are all friends, but have different masters."
She figits at her desk a moment, "Please, do what you can to help these apprentices. But, again, please be careful during your investigations. It would not do Saringallow any good should the rumormongers start talking."
|
|
Wolfgang strokes his mustaches while listening to the mayor explanation, then he nods:"Very well. Thanks for the recap. Now, let's get moving and pay a visit to mr Petrello. I'm sure daddy is mad with grief over the loss of his own beloved daughter. In fact I could figure him even raising our reward once we bring the poor child back!"
|
|
The Speaker listens politely to the Mayor's further information, making a few notes in their Journal as appropriate, leaving enough space between each Master to allow for notes to be made on their finds. Standing up and re-securing the note and parchment of names, the Speaker gives the Mayor a shallow bow.
"We shall do our utmost in this Lord Mayor, on that you have our word." The Speaker looks around their companions and nods. "Well the Bakery seems to have won out for now, We shall try the Haberdasher after that."
With a graceful step, the Sarenrite makes their way from the bar.
"If you need additional... resources during this... perhaps if you show my letter at Saringallow’s Sundries, you'll be getting a discount on items purchased will help."
and with the the group leaves the mayor and begins walking towards the bakery. They take in the sights and sounds of the town... busy with work... but also an air of uneasiness hanging over the residents.
Many of Saringallow’s buildings are built from stone or brick, especially the older ones, which were constructed before the Goblinblood Wars. Each entrance via the roads into Saringallow boasts
heavily defended guard towers and sturdy gates, which also feature interior wicket gates. Some townsfolk stare at them as they walk by, some pay them no mind, children seem to follow them out of curiosity until shooed away.
Arriving at the bakers shop the group sees a bunch of apprentices scurrying around and two of them are struggling to move a cart with broken wheels but are failing badly. The five apprentices see the group approaching the bakery and seem stunned at what to do...
|
|
The Speaker moves easily through the town, a look of confidence upon their face which is matched by their stride. Smiling and waving to the interested villagers, the Speaker also indulges the Children's curiosity, spending a moment to make them laugh and to wish them good fortune. Approaching the Bakery, the Speaker sees the apprentice's problem and ponders their options for a moment.
"Good Day to you all, I know we are outsiders and must seem odd but I assure you we are here to simply talk to your master about business of a mutually beneficial nature." The Speaker says softly, a smile upon their face and their hands spread in a sign of peace. "Do you need a hand there? Mayhaps we can be of assistance
The young apprentices seem at ease at your pleasantries until a rough and surly looking man shouts out from inside the bakery. "Get back to work you varmints! I don't pay you to lolly-gag. Get that cart moving! And who are you all? Bothering us when I am working. Go away." the gruff man bellows out and limps back into his shop.
|
|
The Speaker steps out of the way to allow their stronger companions to assist with the cart. Smiling softly at the Master Baker, the Sarenrite boes low with a sweep of their arm.
"Master Keronna? please may we speak a little more privately?" they begin, casting a sideways glance at the villagers on the street and keeping their voice low. "We are on important business from the Mayor and he begged us to get your expertise as a brave warrior."
"Talk... talk... talk dont pay no bills... buy something or shove off. The boys got work to do... if they can ever move that blasted cart... and I gots me a fire to watch with bread baking... talk to yourselves all you want...missing apprentice...? no... you mean Noemi...? no missing... most likely sulking after burning some rolls... I scolded her for that and she cried some and sniffled... aint no crying in ma bakery!" the cranky man yells out..."Put your backs into it you lazy bums...if my leg wasnt so bad I would do it myself..." and he goes back in to check on his baking breads... ...fish egg sprinkles...hadnt thought of that..." he mutters to no one...
|
|
"He is an asocial, abusive sort. Regardless, my analysis suggests he might become more cooperative should we assist with some of these tasks he has on hand. Though I am loathe to waste time with such trivialities, it maybe the only way to earn his trust."
Eris walks over to the cart and tries to help move it.
Eris manages to assist Wolfgang with the cart. The baker comes back out with dough in his hands and sees the cart moved "Did you boys do that? Finally some work out of ya" one of the young apprentices shakes his head and points to you all. "Hhhmmph...well I guess I owe you for the help. Alright you boys get 'round back and prep the flour." he barks out and the apprentices move quickly to the task.
Alone with the baker the man opens up a little. "You want to know about Noemi... she is probably spending time with her no good friends... probably plotting against me cause of my sunny disposition...recently at night I've been hearing buzzing sounds and seeing lights like torches flying through the air... probably some trick to scare me... but I wont scare so easily. All this i seen down by the central orchid...but when i get there to check it out and catch them red handed all i see are trampled fruit...but i will catch them no worries and then I will yell at Noemi some more...as if she thinks she can scare me...thats all i know... i need to start on the evening baking" and he turns around back into his shop.
|
|
Sammakko is too busy looking over all the freshly baked pastries and breads to really pay attention to what the baker is actually saying. "I'll have one of those.... ooo three of those. Mmmm that looks yummy, let me try that one too. Does that come with maggot stuffing?" He spends several gold pieces buying a large bagful of baked goods, more than anyone his size would normally be able to finish in a timely manner.