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Gaze into the Heavens in wonder. What secrets do the stars hold? What of Aballon the Horse and Castrovel the Green? What strange creatures dance in the dark upon such worlds, and what chariot could reach them? Many have visited the planes, have hunted Elysium and dreamed in tens, yet how many have trodden the skin of other worlds?
There, hanging above us, floats Somal - thus the Azlanti called the moon smiling down upon we who wander the surface of the Case of Golarion. What strange creatures are watching us as we so about our business, and what blight blemishes her surface with the Moonscar?
-From the journal of Cladrann Thashkrell
The world is your oyster. Years as a Pathfinder Society agent have taken you across all of Golarion and beyond, and you’ve had more adventures than you can properly remember. Retired now, your power, wealth and skill have grown to the point that you count the rulers of Avistan and the leaders of the most powerful organizations in the Inner Sea as your peers and advisees. You have the kind of success and legend that most mortals can only dream of. You make your home in Absalom, the City at Center of the World, and you are at the center of the City. Children read of your past deeds in the Pathfinder Chronicles and dream of growing up to be like you.
Despite this, the Inner Sea is but a tiny pond on a speck of rock floating in the infinite vastness of the Great Beyond. Even at the heights of mortal power, there are still forces at work in the world which make you tremble at night and lie awake when you want only sleep. Recently you have been troubled by the disappearance of a man you know. The powerful sorcerer Brythen Blood has disappeared without explanation. Blood is High Curator of the College of Mysteries and a Grand Councilman, as well as being a retired Second Spell Lord. He is a powerful figure in Absalom, and his sudden absence has caused whispered rumors to fly among the elite of the city. Whatever your connection with Blood is, you won’t be able to sleep until you can figure out what happened to him and put your worries to rest.
After doing some digging the only clue you’ve been able to find so far is that Blood was last seen in the company of an attractive woman. As you are pondering your next move, your thoughts are interrupted. A distorted voice speaks from the air, "I believe we share a common goal. I have information about the individual you seek. Meet me at midnight in the Dancing Lancer tavern." The spell lets you know intuitively that the message is directed at you, and that any short reply you speak will be heard by its sender.
For the last few weeks, Iko Ilue had been spending hours at a time lying in the rough surf on a rocky beach North of the city of Absalom. He found the whipping wind and the slap of the waves helped to relieve the pounding in his head.
The times when Alyah has approached her father for anything are few and far between, so when she came to find Iko on his beach he sat up, alert (easily making out her footfalls over the sound of the sea). His braided hair and beard had sand and dried seaweed in it, his loose Garundi clothes were damp with salt water, his brown skin lined by years spent in the sun and wind. He stilled his heart from hoping too much as she walked toward him.
"Father", she said a bit formally. "Professor Blood is missing. No one knows why, he just disappeared. The school has sent someone to check on him, I know, but--" pain evident in her voice, "--can you...do you think you could...?"
Brushing sand from his rough, callused palms, Iko placed a hand on her shoulder. I want to promise that I'll bring him back alive. I want to promise to do so much for her but...
"I'll do everything I can. " he said. "I'll look into it right away."
Hope bloomed on her face and she gave the father-she-wasn't-raised-by a hug, and then pulled away. Nodding, Iko Ilue said, ”Go on then child, I won’t keep you. Return to your school. I’ll...go see what I can learn.”
After his daughter left Iko stood watching the sea for minutes and then called out After another few minutes of unanswering silence the Tool of Hei Feng shrugged with annoyance and took off walking back into Absalom.
Iko spent the day asking questions of old colleagues and contacts. Some were gracious, while others eyed him accusingly. After hours of waiting, walking, and talking he’d learned of the woman Blood had been seen with and little else. Sitting on the ground in the College's courtyard with his back resting against a palm, thinking about who he hadn’t contacted yet who might be willing to help him after the mess with Rathel and Ifaeli, he felt a breeze whispering to him (clearly not the voice of Hei Feng, who spoke always in thunder and crashing).
He listened, curious as a voice he couldn't place purported to offer aid. After a brief pause, he replied, ”Iko Ilue will be there." Then he lay his head back against the palm and closed his eyes. Brythen Blood is a powerful man. Who else has a stake in this search? And who in opposing it?
He lay there for several more hours, ignoring those who passed by, until he felt the last of the daylight fading. Then he rose, got a skewer of roasted tuna for his dinner, and headed off to the Dancing Lancer, aiming to get some wine and wait for his mysterious source.
Lady Gabrielle d'Apcher looked up from her book and out over her perfectly-sculpted garden, taking a moment to reach for her cup of hot tea. However, instead of delving right back into the thrilling tale, she set her book down just watched a small bird clean itself by a pond. She adjusted the angle of her glasses, as she often did when her hands were idle.
The case of the missing Brythen Blood had been bothering her today. Only two days before he vanished, Lady Gabrielle had seen him at a soiree in the company of an attractive woman unknown to her, or to anyone else in their social circle, it seemed. Who was this person, and how did she captivate Brythen so suddenly?
A distorted voice released her from thought, claiming to be able to assist. The choice of the Dancing Lantern brought a smile to her face, as if the speaker knew Lady Gabrielle's tastes quite well.
"How could I possibly refuse such an offer? I would highly recommend a private booth. Several are likely available at such a late hour," she replies, curious as to just who it was she was speaking with. Perhaps an admirer? It would fit the choices of the meeting location and the secretive method of contact. The evening sounded as if were right out of the novels she loved to read. As she sets her teacup down, her worry turns into quiet excitement, as Lady Gabrielle has always enjoyed a good mystery.
The weight of the old mask felt strange on the Sylph's head.
Apex mentally reviewed his mission. His other self's youngest child Ruxandra had come home quite distressed. The Nightwish Matriarch had quickly learned about the problem; her arcanist-in-training had wasted no time in saying "Mom! It's awful! Professor Blood is missing! What do we do?!"
Apex rebuttoned the cuffs of his shirt; they occasionally got loose after a long day of work.
When someone went abruptly missing, it was almost always serious in Apex's experience, but to an outsider, it might have seemed like Ruxy had been overreacting; he went to the best school for aspiring arcanists in Absalom, arguably the Inner Sea; surely someone else could pick up where her old Professor left off. However, since Sylphs aged considerably slower than most humanoids, it took a very patient sort of instructor to teach them well. Brythen Blood was one of those rare people, and without his guidance, it could very well take years for Ruxandra Nightwish to recover any lost progress.
"Don't worry, sweetie. I'm sure someone is out there looking for him."
Apex felt his senses sharpen as his magic began to empower him.
On a larger level, his disappearance was also quite worrying. Blood was a powerful sorcerer, and by all accounts, his absence was very abrupt. Powerful people very rarely just fell of the face of Golarion with no explanation. Something was very likely amiss...
The only clue that Apex had was that Blood had last been seen in the company of a beautiful woman. He had gotten that little tidbit while trailing a Garundi man who had been asking around town about the same issue. However, the path went cold after that.
Apex let out a tired sigh; it looked like he had a very long night of searching ahead of him. He knew how these investigations went. It was not like Shelyn was going to drop a clue on his lap.
It took every inch of self-control Apex had to prevent Morgan from laughing herself into a coma from what happened literally seconds later.
"It seems that I'm still a little rusty with my stealth," the masked man mused. "Regardless, I shall be there."
Cael flew through the sky above Absalom, not the only one to do so mind you. But he was well known enough to those that regularly travelled above the city. More so in recent days for his building temper that manifested in intense winds around him. Mages, beast, and any being with sense in the sky gave "Sky Master" Cael right of way or risk being victim to a short fall and sudden stop atop one of the many spires and roofs of the Wise Quarter. The Varlokkur had warned him more then once but more often then not the supposed victims were more stubborn then sensible causing the mage little trouble in turn.
The source of his darkening mood had been his friend and former teacher's disappearance. He had found little about the incident and was on his way to Forae Logos to dig up some information on a sure fire means of gaining information on his wayward friend. The Library of Kortos held the greatest amount of lore in the inner sea, if it was a dead end then he would have to seek other less known and more dangerous knowledge sources and brokers. He did not think it had reached that point just yet. Suddenly in mid flight a voice speaks causing him to stop in mid air.
As he listens he cast his own senses outward. His protective magic foiled all forms of magical spying which meant he could not be found by magical means. So the one contacting him had to know his location to use the magic needed for such communication. He none the less responds.
"I am not one for games, you would do well not to play them with me in my current state."
His voice dropping into the rumble of a coming storm, yet as he continues it becomes higher and softer.
"That being said, what is the name on the reservation? A good meal does much to sweeten one's mood I suppose."
None of the former Pathfinders receive any further reply from their mysterious informant. The appointed hour comes, and the four contactees start arriving at the meeting place. The Dancing Lancer is exactly as some of them may remember it. It's classic, exclusive and cozy. At this hour the establishment is quiet, and displays only dimly lit windows to the street. The doorman apparently recognizes each of the four by sight. He greets them each by name, and takes any outer garments they might have. He politely directs them to a private dining room near the back of the restaurant. The Lancer's interior is done up in undressed brick, and cool-colored woods. Everburning lights provide just enough illumination for the correct ambiance. The public dining areas are deserted at this late hour, but there are a couple of well dressed patrons nursing drinks at the bar.
The private dining room is easy enough to find. Inside they find a large comfortable table. There is some wine, and a few basic refreshments on the table - bread, cheese and some fruit. At the head of the table, facing the entrance to the room sits a person in an eyeless, red leather mask. They motion for the arrivals to sit down and partake, but wait for all four to arrive before speaking.
Apex arrives at the Dancing Lancer first. Having staked out the area two hours in advance, he concludes that everything seems to be in order, so after recasting Heroism and Heightened Senses (and extending them with his metamagic rod of Lesser Extend Spell), the masked man quietly slips in through the entrance. He keeps his guard up while being escorted by the doorman, but given the comfortable atmosphere on the place, Apex lets himself relax a bit. He takes his seat without word, though Morgan mentally giggles at the irony of meeting another masked individual. For whatever reason, they were much rarer than she had expected when she had donned Apex's mask.
He looks at the number of remaining chairs and rationalizes that they are expecting three other people.
"You might know me as Apex," the vigilante introduces himself in his usual stoic manner. "I suppose we should wait for the others before discussing matters further."
Out of habit, Apex uses the Detect Magic and Detect Poison spells on the food and drink. If everything checks out, he alters his mask to have a small opening for eating and takes a polite bite of some bread. He is not worried about his lips giving anything away; he and Morgan had vastly different physical features.
The red masked being nods. The food is safe, and very good. Though it is simple fare, it is of the highest quality.
Lady Gabrielle is the last to arrive, and after the doorman takes her evening cloak, she is surprised to be led to a private dining room instead of a booth. It seemed that a quiet midnight dinner was not to be had tonight. Instead, it was going to be one of those group discussions of the sort she was gladly growing used to having fewer of as she faded away from the notice of the Venture-Captains.
And with two masked men, a sylph, and a rather grungy fellow in attendance, they could only be Pathfinders.
"I take it you were the origin of the mysterious message?" she asks the red-masked person as she sits, searching her memory for any Venture-Captains who would wear such a thing.
Cael lands softly on his feet outside the Dancing Lancer. Waving away the doorman as he enters. His magic protected him from the elements and he was never one to hide himself when in the open these days. As he was lead to the table he noticed the two masked ones seated before him. He would never understand why people bothered, magic could defeat such simple things and if it could not then it spoke all one needed to know of the individual in itself. He scanned the pair for anything that stood out, letting his magic detecting eyes note any aura's or lack there of as well. He did not notice any pins or signs of position, so he simply nodded before taking his seat without a word. He ignored the food, his reason was clear and if his host was not springing for more complex fair then business was the only topic at hand he guessed.
After all he had been called, so he felt no need to speak or make it easy. Silence spoke enough to those that paid attention and he was comfortable in it as he waited.
Iko Ilue shakes his head at the doorman's offer muttering, "Thank you, no need," and then finds his way to the private dining hall.
He enters the light of the fine private room (and finely dressed company), giving no thought to the fact that he looks like he was just dragged out of the sea. His long salt-and-pepper hair and beard have bits of dried seaweed and shells braided into them. His brown skin is weathered to the point where he looks far older than his 41 years. His mithral breastplate is concealed under loose Garundi clothes, in patterns of sea green, sandy beige, and storm-cloud grey -- clothes that are (as usual) crusted in salt and sand. About his neck is a stylized storm cloud made of copper but complete green due to exposure to the elements. Those who're familiar with Hei Feng will recognize it as his holy symbol.
Iko casts his eyes around the room, assessing those around him.
I don't believe I've met any of these before. What's their involvement here? Were they simply called as well? And presuming they recognize me...what version of my recent sagas have they heard?
That slyph with the near-white hair carries himself as a mage. There was someone like that active in the Pathfinders when I was just setting out...what was his name again? Wind-something, I believe.
Next to him, a masked man, obviously strong, apparently unarmored, radiating confidence...and with a slight breeze in his cape. What that spells...I couldn't say, but he's clearly one for me to keep an eye on him.
The young, well-to-do noblewoman beside him looks out of place; certainly not someone I've had reason to meet before...but see the nimbleness with which she moves? And how relaxed she seems amongst the mysterious and powerful? I wager she's more than she cares to appear...and might be more important to keep an eye on than that masked one.
He nods to the others, pours himself a cup of wine, and says: "Iko Ilue, the Crashing Tempest, Hand of Hei Feng. I'm curious to know what's going on here, who's company I'm in, and most importantly what you can tell me about High Curator Blood."
"I apologize for my rudeness in contacting you so suddenly and briefly, and thank you for meeting me here. I cannot tell you my name, for I am a member of the Decemvirate, and my ability to guide the Pathfinder Society hinges on my anonymity. What is doubtlessly more important to you than my name is how I can help you," the masked figure says once everyone has arrived. Its voice is magically distorted, so it's impossible to tell the speaker's gender. Their gear radiates no magic, though it is clearly magical.
"In recent months, I have been investigating the disappearance of a high-ranking Pathfinder agent named Osprey, and have discovered a series of similar disappearances throughout the Inner Sea region, all of which occurred under similar circumstances. In each case, the missing person was last seen with an attractive stranger, and appeared to be rapt with the new acquaintance's beauty and charm. Reports in most cases place the missing individual in the company of the same stranger in the Nirmathi city of Skelt, from whence the party is said to have traveled south toward a recently active volcanic ridge called the Growling Skald. Your missing friend, Blood, is among those whose disappearance matches this pattern."
"Our divinations have located several of those who vanished on the moon. Long have reports spoken of a demon-tainted jungle on the surface of the moon- what we on Golarion see as the Moonscar. It is there that I believe those abducted have been taken, though for what sinister succubus plot I know not."
"Few have the means to venture into such a realm, which is why I am here, now, with you. There is little I can offer you beyond pointing you in what I hope is the right direction. Yet if you can find a way to the Moonscar and retrieve not only my missing agent and your friend, but any other captives of the demons there, then my faith in you has not been misguided. Whatever plan the Moonscar's Insatiable Queen and her servants have in the works, it has sped up drastically, and I fear for us all should they not be stopped."
Iko arches an eyebrow at the mention of the moon, and scowls. "The moon you say? Someone like Blood goes missing, you know it's never going to be easy, but still..." He shakes his head and looks around at the others gathered here to gauge their reactions.
Turning to their host, he asks, "What more is known of the Moonscar? And how one best prepares to survive within it? Is it as inhospitable as some of the other planes? I've fought demons aplenty but know nothing of this Insatiable Queen. I don't relish the thought of journeying to the stars, but if that's the way to rescue Blood then I will go, if I can find a way."
Pausing to look at the others gathered, he adds, "I don't believe I know any of you yet, but I've worked with many companions in my years as a Pathfinder. Speak your intentions here, and what you have to offer. I know the value of competent companions."
___________________
Cael had to stop himself from rolling his eyes as the masked one told them the standard line for why Decemvirate members could not expose themselves. One would think they would learn a different line after a few decades. As it turns to the subject of his interest his mind floods with questions, among them why did his divinations fail and how was Blood, a powerful and experienced sorcerer himself, taken by mere succubus. He sighs somewhat, while he was glad to get a lead to his friend. He had avoided the politics of the Pathfinders for a reason and had no taste for it. Still it was a necessary evil it seemed and he would not abandon his friend over minor discomforts. He thinks on the information given so far before speaking.
Let me know if I need to roll something different for a subject or what not.
As he is reviewing the topics spoken of, one of the other guest speaks up. He spoke of his desire to aid and shortcomings, all well and good. Then admits to being a Pathfinder and makes demands. Cael simply places his staff across his lap and folds his arms over it. Thinking on the name he had gained from the man. Feeling no need to rush in answering the upstart garundi.
Any magical scans on Apex or his gear reveal nothing of note.
Apex takes a few bites of cheese while their host tells his/her tale, listening carefully to make sure that the information is authentic.
"I am not surprised that you have not heard of me; you may call me Apex, though I do not believe that I caught your name," the masked man replies calmly to Iko. While certainly male, his voice seems to be locked in a stoic monotone. "As for my intentions, I plan to rescue Master Blood. He is an important individual in this city, and he has done much for several people across Absalom. If he and several others are in the hands of these lunar succubi, then that is all the more reason to act."
Apex gestures to his two swords.
"I like to think of myself as a transmuter magus. I admittedly lack of some of the material skill that others of my kind possess, but I more than make up with for that deficit with magical prowess. People have also told me that I am good at recon."
Sure, he might have left out some specific names, but Apex genuinely has no other intention other than rescuing Blood (and now all these other people if the moon story checks out).
- There are many rumors about what happened after the Pathfinders defeating the Ydersius cult (and the half-resurrected snake god himself) but it seems likely that Rathel and her Trumpet Archon lover Ifaeli declared their new mission -- to wipe out the insect-born diseases so endemic to the region, to teach the surrounding tribes to live by Iomedae’s divine laws, and to establish a bastion of Heaven and Purity here on Golarion. Iko Ilue was committed to Hei Feng's opposition to any Outsider meddling in Golarion (whether good or evil). The two sides fought, Iko killed the archon, and banished the paladin.
So, the Decemvirate themselves were behind the summoning, and Brythen Blood's disappearance led them to investigate the matter much more thoroughly than Lady Gabrielle had intended to. She was more interested in identifying the mysterious woman who had swiftly penetrated Absalom society. A demon? How strangely appropriate, she thinks to herself as she helps herself to a pinch of blueberries.
She gives her glasses a quick adjustment before speaking. "For how long have these disappearances been occurring?" she asks. "And how frequently do they seem to happen?"
Turning to their host, he asks, "What more is known of the Moonscar? And how one best prepares to survive within it? Is it as inhospitable as some of the other planes? I've fought demons aplenty but know nothing of this Insatiable Queen. I don't relish the thought of journeying to the stars, but if that's the way to rescue Blood then I will go, if I can find a way."
"The Moonscar is mysterious. It is known to host plant and animal life, but the energies of the Abyss permeate the place. It will certainly be as dangerous as any jungle expedition. Somewhat moreso with the addition of the demons, I'd imagine," the masked figure replies drolly in its warped voice.
Knowledge (Local) vs Osprey: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (2) + 17 = 19
Knowledge (Geography/History) vs Skelt: 1d20 + 25 ⇒ (20) + 25 = 45
Knowledge (Geography/History) vs Growling Skald: 1d20 + 25 ⇒ (8) + 25 = 33
Knowledge (Planes) vs Moonscar: 1d20 + 28 ⇒ (5) + 28 = 33
Knowledge (Planes) vs Insatiable Queen: 1d20 + 28 ⇒ (19) + 28 = 47
So, the Decemvirate themselves were behind the summoning, and Brythen Blood's disappearance led them to investigate the matter much more thoroughly than Lady Gabrielle had intended to. She was more interested in identifying the mysterious woman who had swiftly penetrated Absalom society. A demon? How strangely appropriate, she thinks to herself as she helps herself to a pinch of blueberries.
She gives her glasses a quick adjustment before speaking. "For how long have these disappearances been occurring?" she asks. "And how frequently do they seem to happen?"
The red-masked figure pulls a list from a pouch at its waist. He offers it Gabrielle. "This all started about two months ago."
The list of kidnapped victims whose circumstances all lead them to the Growling Skald includes the following: Brythen Blood; the Pathfinder agent Osprey (N male human druid 11); Commander Andabar Ceroban (LG male human cavalier 13) of the Knights of Ozem in Lastwall; the Nexian golemcrafter Pendrel Zarafari (CN male half -elf wizard w) of Oenopion; Druman Kalistocrat Obenna Sirara (LN fe male human aristocrat 6/rogue 6); Garrin Levoye (CG male human fighter 9) of Andoran's People's Council; professor Zembe Utomo (NG male human wizard 12) of the Magaambya; and Chelish noble and famed opera librettist Enlina Charthagnion (LE female human aristocrat 3/bard 8).
Any magical scans on Apex or his gear reveal nothing of note. However, he has quite a bit of magical gear. Of his four weapons (two longswords, a dagger, and a morningstar), only the dual long blades display anything.
Apex pauses as if a thought crosses his mind.
"Apologies, Iko Ilue. I did not immediately recognize you," he says with a slight chuckle. To be honest, his calmly voice makes it sound more like a cough. Apex looks to the rest of his potential allies and says, "If you all wish to work with me, I propose that we first investigate the last location where Blood and others were spotted before vanishing entirely."
With the proper information recalled both on the topic at hand and the upstart, Cael's words are clear as a gentle breeze that builds to a gust.
"Interesting that you demand to know our intentions and our presume value. Bold words for one such as you Iko Ilue, considering your actions. If they do not align with your own, will you remove yourself from our company or turn on us as you have done in the past. I think it best you answer your own words before directing them upon others. Then I may choose to answer you."
He did not have a problem with the man's position concerning his former comrade. He had a problem with being able to trust the man and his sense of reliability. Divided loyalties and agenda's was among the prime reasons he stayed out of politics and such things after all. Everyone had their own goal and reason but the mission remained the same. One of the few iron rules of the Pathfinders was working together, some considered that ended with a goal achieved. For the most part he was not among those kind. Almost as a after thought.
"I nearly forget my own manners, forgive me."
He addresses everyone with a nod.
"I am Cael Windstrom."
Iko's jaw tightens at Cael's words. After several breaths he replies slowly.
"What I've done as a Pathfinder was to end a demonic infestation, prevent Ydersius' return to full power, and bring some priceless relics back to the Society. What I did as a defender of nature's balance was to stop a deluded archon and paladin from turning a corner of our world into something it should never have been. If you need to hear more of what happened there, by all means ask, but know that members the Decemvirate have heard my full debriefing and (as they have called me back to service) clearly seem to accept it.”
Iko nods to their masked sponsor.
"Meanwhile we've just heard there are more outsiders attempting to spoil Golarion: a plan that includes kidnapping powerful people from across the globe, including Blood, who I have some personal interest in. I know there are few people alive who might be able to foil these demons and as one who might I intend to try. Clearly Apex here is of a like mind.
"Windstrom, I think I recognize your name from early in my career. If I recall, you had some notable missions and likely have something to contribute to this effort. If you care to, please do."
Otherwise take your pompous attitude and posturing about what you'll choose to disclose to someone who'll give a damn.
Lady Gabrielle brushes aside the topic of Iko's past with a simple tap of her finger on one particular listed name, the motion just sharp enough to draw attention. "I see that Lady Charthagnion did not retire after all," she comments while examining the list. "Are there any theories regarding why these particular people were targeted?" she continues, looking to the red-masked host. "Perhaps we could discover the next one, and catch them in the temptation phase."
"I believe it was simply that they happened to travel to Skelt, and are people of power. I've been unable to find any further threads connecting the victims," the masked figure responds.
"Do we know whether the romantic partner was the same person in each case?" she asks, considering the possibilities.
"No, we do not. Descriptions are vague, and even if they weren't it is a simple matter to change one's appearance," the Decemvirate member replies.
Cael would not waste his breath or provoke Iko further by pointing out that it was common for all to paint themselves in a favorable light as he list his merits. But he does have a response none the less.
"The Decemvirate accept much, that is nether here or there. Frankly I am not interested in your reasons, everyone has them. What I am interested in is trust and resolution. If I can not count on or trust you then that makes you little different then the enemy. If only a temporary ally, that good man gives me pause. Truthfully would you be keen to accept someone who you know to have turned on a comrade shortly after aiding them?"
When Iko brings his past up slightly, the sylph gives a look of scrutiny before completing his thought.
"As for my own merits. I am a knowledgeable mage that specializes in ancient magical empires. I have been inactive for the last decade or so concerning the Pathfinders. As for Blood, he is a friend and colleague. That is all the reason I need to find him and return him from any predicament he may have found himself in."
When the young lady, with more magical items then any mere noblewoman would possess on her person, speaks of theories.
"I would guess that being people of power or positions that influence it. Is the target, it is not a new idea to control or manipulate such people towards a goal that may not be apparent. Their diversity and lack of connection could simply be a indication of scope of said plan. Succubus are known for their covert skills, they could be replacing these people and gaining the proper information beforehand or information could be the goal itself. Again these are just guesses with limited knowledge, I would not claim to know the mind of a demoness ether."
Once he catches his breath he gives out what he remembers about the topics the masked one spoke of that caught his attention.
"Appearances are more easily changed than tastes, as well," she says. "I wonder... What was Osprey up to before his disappearance?"
Turning towards Cael, she continues. "If the goal is manipulation, kidnapping would certainly defeat the subtle aspect. Why bring them to the moon?"
-Posted with Wayfinder
"Appearances are more easily changed than tastes, as well," she says. "I wonder... What was Osprey up to before his disappearance?"
"He was writing a report for me on ancient Azlanti efforts to terraform the Moon," the masked figure replies.
"Then he was likely sticking his beak in a place where he was noticed," the Lady comments. And just why were you having him do that? she does not say.
"I wonder what it was that drew the demons to him. If we can retrace his steps, we may learn quite a lot about them."
-Posted with Wayfinder
Apex shifts slightly. He tries not to seem uncomfortable.
"Exactly," he agrees with the redhead noblewoman. "Again, I believe investigating the last place these individuals were seen would be our best bet. In my experience, something happening more than thrice is a trend, and we know that most if not all of them were last seen near the Growling Skald."
"The volcano strikes me as the lion's den. We may find ourselves in the same place as Osprey if we start there," she replies.
Iko sighs as Cael's question. "Fair enough. I don't know what you've heard-- and as you know a story can be told from many angles. Rathel and I are much alike in many ways: both of us serve our gods above all else. Together we stopped a great threat that neither of us could have stopped alone.”
After brief pause he continues. "I...don't sleep easily after what happened between Rathel and I, and I pray nightly that I never again find myself having to choose between a friend and doing my duty. I warned her against her foolishness, but she was heaven-bent on her plan to distort the very nature of our plane, at least in N'gandu, that one place we'd both fought for eighteen months to protect. I attempted to dissuade her but she was as pigheaded as that archon who'd filled her head with absolutist claptrap. When I failed at that, I destroyed her archon and her new project, but managed to keep her alive and get her away from there. I hope her head has cleared and she can go back to fighting evil herself instead of trying to remake our world into something it was never meant to be.
"So you wonder if I'll 'turn on you'? I like to think I am an open tome: I serve the Dark Wind, the Tempest That Wears All Things To Rubble. In Hei Feng’s name, I work to preserve balance, and to protect our world from intrusions from beyond that seek to change the fabric of Golarion. Will you stubbornly try to destroy nature's balance? Or try to turn our plane into a mirror of some Outer plane you fancy? If so then it would avoid a lot of pain for us to part ways before I learn of your plans. But my concern right now is rescuing Blood, as a gift to my daughter -- and foiling the plot of these Moonscar demons, because that's the tool Hei Feng remade me into. If you’re willing to be as forthright with your own intentions, and if they align, then let us join forces. I fear all of us may well be needed to defeat this Insatiable Queen.”
Turning to the conversation about tactics. "I am inclined to get promptly to the volcano as well."
Nodding toward the aristocrat he says, "Lady, you speak of the danger in that approach and you’re right...but I believe Apex, Cael, and I are well suited to dangerous tasks. What of yourself? You’ve asked some apt questions and raised interesting ideas but have yet to introduce yourself.
"Who are you and what’s your role here? If you’re not suited for such dangers I would never ask you to subject yourself to them. And whether or not you join us in taking this fight to the Moonscar, if you have a suggestion for another place to begin I'm happy to hear it...but as I understand it the place they've all disappeared from is the Growling Skald.”
Lady Gabrielle adjusts her glasses before answering Iko's question. "My identity is dependent on the answer to a different question," she says. "If this group of four, five if the Decemvirate intend for one of their number to join us personally, are a specialized attack squadron whose only purpose is to maim or kill whatever stands in its way, then I am a nameless soldier," she continues. "Reportin' fer duty!" she adds in a rural Andoren accent.
"However, if the intentions of this group are to investigate a series of disappearances, uncover the whereabouts of Brythen Blood and Osprey, among others, and halt the plans of an unknown group of potentially-otherworldly manipulators, then I am Gabrielle d'Apcher, daughter of Thomas, Marquis de Margeride, and concerned citizen of the Petal District," she continues, her cadence taking on a hint of playfulness. "'Milady,' in short," she adds after a brief pause. "And I believe that Osprey, our mutual friend Blood, and their recent activities would be an excellent starting point to our investigation. How they were fortunate enough to draw the attention of these alleged demons is an excellent question to answer."
Iko replies, "I've heard noone express violence as their goal, Lady Gabrielle, but you should understand that when demons are involved -- as has already been ascertained -- we should expect that 'halting their plans' likely involves a good bit of bloodshed: theirs and likely ours as well.
"Have you been a part of investigations like this before? Now that you say your name I seem to recall you penning some well written Chronicles...but I don't recall what talents you bring to the table, and where your comforts lie. Are you offering to take this wherever it goes? And do you have reassurances that you won't be a liability if, as seems likely, we end up traveling to the Moonscar itself? If investigation here in more civilized parts is more your skillset then there's no shame in remaining here.
"That said, I readily agree that if there's more to be learned here in Absolom or in Skelt, it's wise to start there." Nodding toward the masked man who'd summoned them, he adds, "Perhaps our sponsor here can help us ascertain which leads have already been exhausted and what might bear fruit. It sounds like divination has already revealed their whereabouts...for better or for worse."
The Lady considers Iko's questions for a moment. "I am not inexperienced in matters of missing Pathfinders, demonic invaders, or planes beyond our own. Also, complaints over my being a liability have yet to surface," she explains.
Iko smiles wide, revealing some poorly maintained teeth.
"Excellent then. I'm sure the Decemvirate brought you into this with good reason and I hope you know I meant no disrespect by my questions. It's only that--if I'm leaving Golarion to face a demon queen--I want to be sure my companions and I all understand one another."
At Iko's words he says simply.
"Fair enough."
His intentions had already been stated after all. As the topic turns Cael holds one hand wide and the other cradling his staff.
"I don't like being deceived."
He makes a point of letting his gaze linger on both Apex and Gabrielle.
"In my opinion it is dangerous to allies far more then enemies. After all, how can one match tactics and utilize resources of a group with such vital information with held. Also I am not easy to deceive in turn. But as we have yet to finalize the formation of a group, I will keep what I know that does not pertain directly to character to myself for now."
He thought on the other two, remembering their names. Iko had made his case well and if his word could be taken, he liked to think it could, then their would be no betrayal. He had no interest in reshaping the world in the image of another. His god was Nethys, a god that had no unbending stance outside of the realm of magic and it's glory. As for Gabrielle and Apex, he would give them a chance to put aside their mysteries and games if they so choose. Succubus were dangerous enough without having prime targets like that, the less one knew of a person the easier it was to replace them or use their appearance to sow discord.
"In the interest of your comfort, Cael Windstrom, perhaps you could present us with your questions. We have all presented ourselves openly and honestly, and we would be glad to fill any gaps in your knowledge of us," she says in a reassuring tone.
-Lady Gabrielle arrived in Absalom with Venture-Captain Amara Li from Goka, as a field agent.
-She has been on quite a few adventures and expeditions, the result of which have been some rather entertaining tales.
-Her mentioned family estate, Margeride, lies in the northwest of Taldor, upriver from Cassomir, bordering both Andoran and the Verduran Forest.
-Her older brother and heir to Margeride, Gerard d'Apcher, is an accomplished Pathfinder who used to be based in Absalom and now resides in Mendev, where he and the units of the Taldan Phalanx he leads battle the demons of the Worldwound.
-She is the producer of a dramatic production in Magnimar called The Fangs of Ambition, an adaptation of a Taldan opera in which Lady Gabrielle has played the female lead, the role of Queen Ileosa Arabasti of Korvosa.
-When Amara Li returned to Goka, Lady Gabrielle took over ownership of the villa formerly known as the Lantern Lodge, in the Petal District.
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Morgan knows a bit about Iko Ilue's history with the much beloved Pathfinder Rathel. The magus herself had long retired before the holy warrior's rise, but in addition to what the Chronicles said, her husband Nikolai had worked with the Iomadaean Paladin quite a bit. He certainly admired her and her work.
One night in recent memory, Nick had come home rather furious about something. He told her the gist of the story; a fellow Pathfinder named Iko Ilue had stabbed Rathel in the back for reasons that Morgan could not fully remember. It had not seemed like too much of an issue at the time. Nikolai had only been venting; given that he had four children and crippled wife to support, he was not going to run off and confront a man who had punched out a god.
Ruxandra had gotten a new classmate not too much later. Given the relatively small size of Professor Blood's class, Morgan knew most of the other students' parents to some degree. They occasionally ran into one another when Brythen summoned them to give progress reports on his students. It had been one such occasion that she had met Iko Ilue.
Since he been taking a hiatus from Society work, Nikolai had come along as well; he was not home as often as he wanted, so her husband tried to show his support for his children on any occasion he got.
Upon seeing the Garundiman, Nick had turned pale (even more so than usual) and jumped out the nearest window with herself and Ruxy in tow. True, like most Sylph, he and Ruxandra could cast Feather Fall once per day, and Morgan always had Overland Flight/Teleport memorized and/or active, so they had not been in any real danger, but poor Ruxy was left embarrassed beyond words at her father's antics, and Morgan was left wondering if her husband had been possessed by a ghost or something.
"That man has a raging hate for outsiders, Morg!" he had explained when he caught his breath.
"...I see," was all Morgan had been able to reply. Because of the audacity of her husband's actions (and the fact that he had so quickly found a window big enough for all three of them), the Transmuter Magus was a bit dazed.
Ultimately, the immense fear in his voice had kept her from badgering him about it, and native as they maybe, Sylphs were technically outsiders. As such, Morgan had been left weary around Iko Ilue ever since. His daughter is certainly nice enough; as far as Morgan knew, Ruxandra seems to be nominally friends with her. However, from the sounds of what he had just said, the Garundiman had defeated a powerful archon to stop Rathel, so Nick's fears probably were not exactly misplaced.
Apex shifts a bit uncomfortably as he mulls over the subject. At the moment, he does not see any reason for Iko to clash with him. He has no intention of imposing any plane on Golarion, and he would not fight nature itself unless someone was twisting it to kill innocent people.
Well, any good reason. Hopefully, Iko is reasonable about his definition of trying to "turn our plane into a mirror of some Outer plane you fancy" or disturbing nature. Like many of his patron goddess' clergy, his daughter Aleksandra likes to stylize the Nightwish family gardens after the ones Lady Shelyn grows in Nirvana. At the end of the day, Apex can understand stopping someone from imposing Heaven on the Golarion, but Aleks' reverence for the artistic beauty of Nirvana's gardens is harmless: she keeps it confined to one spot that her family owns and only uses plants native to the material plane.
I really overthink these things, Apex grumbles in his mind. With a sigh, he sums up his thoughts to Iko.
"While I wish that it had not happened, I can understand stopping Rathel from imposing Heaven on Golarion. However, I hope that you strive to be reasonable and fair with your judgements, Iko Ilue. For instance, I see no need to terrorize any Sheylnites for making a small personal garden inspired by those of the The Eternal Rose. That would be... excessive."
"My groundskeeper calls my garden either heaven on Golarion or excessive, depending on his mood," the Lady interjects, with a dose of humor to liven things up.
Cael is somewhat known in Absalom. He is a resident of the Wise Quarter and very knowledgeable sage. Best known for his original style shory tower.
In Absalom their are certain titles that outweigh those associated with noble houses and the like. Cael holds two that speak volumes among the native Absalom who respect those of substance not useless breeding or luck of birth. The first is his title of Enigma from the College of Mysteries, the highest rank one can achieve with in the college. Making him a grandmaster from the oldest magical school in Absalom. The second and more widely known outside of the scholarly circles is that of Golden Sword. For with in the Irorium of the Foreign Quarter lies a bust of Cael, among the rare few who have earned the Golden Sword title. Obtained only by winning 25 judged bouts in the famous arena in a variety of match types, ranging from duels to groups and even monsters.
While his name is not known in this generation of Pathfinders. Cael Windstorm was well known in his active years, the last of which were nearly two decades ago. He has a long list of retrieved relics, recovered knowledge both magical and cultural concerning ancient magical empires, as well as the foremost expert on the ancient Shory Empire. Going so far as restoring their thought extinct language. It is even said that his understanding of Shory magic and technology is great enough that he could recreate their flying cities, most scuff at this as mere rumor. During his hay day he was given the moniker Sky Master, a title used among the ancient shory for a triune of wizards. Each specializing in a aspect of controlling their flying city which was indicated by the second part of the title. Which Cael lacks, popular opinion at the time to those in the know of such things said it was due to Cael's rounded nature of aeromancy. All in all he was a well regarded Pathfinder but never strove or was placed in the limelight despite his considerable contributions.
"Ask of me what you will, Cael Windstorm. However, know this. My main intention is to help the innocent: people who Professor Blood and the others who have been abducted by these lunar demons. That is why I donned this mask. It might be foolish for one man to fight all the evils in the world, but not doing anything is hardly better."
Considering that you and he investigated the other for nearly a year before calling a truce, you know a lot about Apex.
-There is a popular book in Absalom among the people with Ustalavic heritage that chronicles the adventures of a masked folk hero known as Apex the Gallant.
-Apex was first spotted a few years after Aroden died.
-He vanished mysteriously sixty-five or so years ago.
-He reappeared about a year ago.
-Apex the Gallant alternated between helping innocent people and fighting the Whispering Way and other undead in Ustalav.
-Unlike many crusaders for good, Apex actually put a dent in the Whispering Way and in the number of undead plaguing Ustalav. Even after all these years, neither has fully recovered from his efforts.
-Apex became much more worldly after two decades or so of working strictly around Ustalav. He was seen a lot in Absalom, but he branched to fighting evil all over the Inner Sea.
-Apex is rather (in)famous for being able to destroy entire evil organizations in a short span of time. However, the book postulates that he spent a lot of time gearing up each sting.
-Apex is very good at hiding.
-Apex claims to be a transmuter magus; he is very good with a sword and his spells. As far as who know, he fully believes himself to be one. However, he has allegedly been spotted casting spells that only the strongest wizards and sorcerers should know.
-He has a strange fondness for recovering lost works of art. Absalom's missing art list has zeroed out in the last year.
"In the interest of your comfort, Cael Windstrom, perhaps you could present us with your questions. We have all presented ourselves openly and honestly, and we would be glad to fill any gaps in your knowledge of us," she says in a reassuring tone.
Cael gives a slight smile, strangely as if he expected the reply.
"Well for one, you can explain why your hiding your true appearance and abundance of magical items? That does not seem open and honest to me."
He did not like being direct about such things but then again she had played with him. He did not like that and had given her a chance already. Better the bull now then the snake later as an osirian saying went.
The Lady smiles before gently replying. "It is a matter of courtesy, Cael, not deception. Polite society does not take kindly to gaudy displays of magical treasures. A Pathfinder's typical appearance brings with it certain connotations, connotations which often serve as a barrier to trust and friendship," she explains. "It is common for one to grow nervous while wondering whether his dancing partner can kill him with a flick of the wrist and the utterance of a word. Do you agree?"
Iko smiles and shakes his head at Apex and Gabrielle's comments. "Who can mislike the Eternal Rose? While Hei Feng may remind us that even the greatest works of art will one day be worn down to dust, why begrudge that artist who brings us fleeting beauty? While it may not be possible for mortal art to match the majesty of a tempest, why begrudge those Shelynites who try?
"Even Iomedae, Abadar, and Asmodeus--a misguided trio who seek to impose an order than could never last onto a world which, at it's core, is a magnificent explosion of newness and change--even they have their place in the balance, if only their servants don't run unchecked."
Placing his hands on the table he says, "My questions are answered and I suspect that the decemvirate have done well today in selecting the four of us. Cael, I wonder if you're confusing privacy and deception?
"I feel Apex has shared his background and abilities with us. Lady Gabrielle...if the decemvirate have asked her to be a part of this, I can't help suspecting she has more to her than just her ability to negotiate and write colorful Chronicles. Do you have skills you've been...modest to disclose, that our lives might depend on knowing?
"Otherwise, unless Cael has more questions to ask then we should begin our work."
Looking again at their host, he says, "Speaking of which, can you get us quickly to either Skelt or (if we decide to begin there, as several of us have suggested) directly to the Growling Skald?"
"There will be no balls of flame or summoned bears, if that is what you are asking," she replies. "I have excellent vision while wearing my glasses, and there is no need to consider me a liability while in a scuffle. That being said, any protection of this damsel is greatly appreciated, especially of the magical variety."
"Also, there may be much to be learned by looking into Brythen Blood's recent activities," she adds as a gentle reminder.
"No one has ever shown discomfort around me. Could just be different circles I guess."
When Iko brings up the point of privacy.
"Well is privacy worth otherwise avoidable danger. Succubus among many other beings have the ability to take on the appearances of others. Some more expertly then others, I would be foolish to consider myself above such deceptions. So if we know nothing of each other, in some cases even each others true form. What is to stop one of us from being replaced by an enemy. Knowledge of your comrades can foul even the best disguises, rare and few are those that can copy another's essence of self. In this case privacy as you call it is an enemies advantage. I would think they come secondary to our goal. I do not see the harm in knowing who I travel with or their face."
He throws up his hand in exasperation.
"So be it, I have nothing more to say on the matter. Let things settle as they may. Concerning travel I can teleport us to ether location if provided with at least a good description. But will need a day of preparation. My preferred method of travel is less direct and temporary of use."