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You have all been delivered a somewhat unusual summons: You are to meet District Councilmember and priestess of Abadar Jostlyn Ferqyr at the Vault of Abadar in Absalom’s Ivy District.
As you approach the temple, you run into each other and have the opportunity to greet each other.
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A lone dwarf stumbles into the area, his dusty clothes scattering the light from the alleyway. Noting the location of the Vault he looks around for others.
He seems to be the first one here, which suits him just fine. He props his shield against the wall and notes its angle and location (for expediency later) and then pulls out his axe, instinctively cleaning the edge off on his adventuring trousers. He waits patiently for the next to arrive, although the longer the better. More time to think.
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A tall thin and pale human of obvious Chelaxian descent wanders into Vault, shielding his eyes from the sun as crosses the threshold. His black hair is slicked back, letting his otherwise wavy locks be restrained for the day. The dwarf can detect an obvious smell of wine emanating from the man, no doubt left over from the previous night's revelries. Despite the heavy odor, the Chelaxian does not seem impaired in any way and his clothes and cloak are well put together giving the man a crisp appearance. Once his eyes adjust to the chamber, he smiles affably to the dwarf, a wicked grin that is at once disarming but urging a prudent being caution.
"Oh, hello there. Impossible that I am not the last, unless its just you an I at the beck and call of our mysterious patrons. At least dwarfs know how to drink, unlike most of these tea sippers around here. My, but where are my manners! Heccan Abraxi, currently of Absalom I suppose. Any idea why we are here?" He flashes the dwarf another grin.
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Another man follows Heccan in, though his approach is a little more noticeable, as you hear him talking the entire way.
Mostly random observations on the vault, and questions to whatever low-level functionary is showing him the way.
When he enters, it is clear he is of Osirion descent, by his darker skin tones, and his accent... but also by the elaborate fabrics he wears, showing off the ceremonial designs of some osirion god or other, though not one of the more familiar. In his hand he holds a long elaborately carved wooden staff, with a silver jackal head on the top.
"Fascinating." He muses, seemingly not talking to anyone in particular. "From the outside, I was sure this whole place was in danger of falling over."
He shakes his head slightly, as he taps his staff on a nearby column, as if testing it. "But it seems more a clever facade than anything. Is all quite sturdy once you get a good look."
He nods to Dreggar and Heccan. "Dr. Menes Strang." He says, introducing himself. "It would appear our expertise has been called upon one more time. Though an unusual place to meet."
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A towering creature joins the party. Looking more like the sort of monster Pathfinders normally fight against than he does a fellow agent, the hulking figure has a protruding lower jaw and sharply jutting tusks. Icy blue eyes glare out from scaly, green-gray flesh.
He is bedecked in battle-scarred mithral plate and wears an odd assortment of orcish tribal fetishes and jewelry of Osirion design. There is a chill in the air around him when he draws near.
In a deep but, perhaps surprisingly civil baritone, he says, "Well met, Pathfinders. I am Dravakuul the Risen. I was told to meet you here."
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A Garundi man with a shaved head and something strange about his eyes enters the room. Clearly an arcane spellcaster, he surveys the group, looking for a familiar face.
"Ah, Dravakuul! We haven't met, but your reputation precedes you. My name is Chabon. At your service." He the circulates, introducing himself to everyone.
"Dr. Strang, perhaps we can compare spellbooks before this misadventure is over?"
As you wait just outside the Vault, you see Ferqyr emerge from the
compound’s main gate, flanked by two stern paladins of Abadar. "Welcome, Pathfinders, and may the Gold-Fisted One smile on our meeting. Come, join me inside." She then hands you a thick envelope, along with a small satchel of handwritten documents.
A letter from Sorina Wesyr is inside.
Pathfinders!
The Hao Jin Tapestry demiplane is on the verge of complete collapse. Despite our best efforts and the personal sacrifice of the former Master of Spells, Aram Zey, we have only been able to slow the demiplane’s disintegration, and it is now only weeks or even days from utter collapse. If this happens, the thousands of beings still within the demiplane will die, and what treasures are still hidden within shall be lost forever. The Society has therefore prioritized rescue and salvage missions, the last of which made a remarkable discovery: Hao Jin is still alive somewhere on the plane of Axis.
At this point she may be the only person who can avert this disaster, so it is imperative that you travel to the Eternal City. Included with this letter is a satchel containing documentation of the Society’s activity in the demiplane, including what we explored, what we modified, and how we’ve tried to keep it intact since. Provide these to Hao Jin, as I can only assume she doesn’t know of the tapestry’s condition. I have also contacted Jostlyn Ferqyr, Keeper of the Vault of Abadar and a district councilmember, securing her assistance. She shall use a holy relic to transport you to an ideal starting point for your search. From there, find the Ruby Phoenix and convince her to help repair what she created—before its inhabitants and secrets are lost forever.
Finally, be on the lookout for trouble. I have noted and thwarted several attempted scrying attempts in the past two weeks, but I cannot assume my colleagues are so vigilant. You may not be the only ones trying to find Hao Jin.
Sorrina Westyr
Master of Spells
As the High Priestess leads you into the compound, she passes through several locked and guarded rooms and descends two staircases, and finally unlocks a vault that contains several small stone plinths, each containing a lockbox. Ferqyr unlocks one and carefully lifts out a golden miniature the size of a dinner plate in the shape of a circular city.
Keeper Ferqyr carefully hands the intricate golden miniature to one of the paladins beside her and pulls out and reads from a small scroll.
“The Vault of Absalom hereby contractually gives permission to the Members of the Pathfinder Society here present to make use of the miraculous powers of the Golden City of Tumen to travel to and return from the realm of the Master of the First Vault, thrice-blessed be his name. During their stay in Axis, the Pathfinders shall conduct themselves in a matter befitting their role as representatives of the Church of Abadar, and not bring ill repute upon it or any of its subsidiary organizations.”
Ferqyr arches an eyebrow at you, waiting for your agreement.
Hao Jin, also known as the Ruby Phoenix, was a sorcerer of incredible power and the creator of the Hao Jin Tapestry, a museum demiplane in which she placed entire landscapes along with her greatest treasures. She mysteriously disappeared several centuries ago and was presumed dead until very recently.
DC 20
DC 25
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"Ah, to possibly learn more of the arcane?" Strang replies at Chabon's offer. "I relish the opportunity!"
Of course, any more is interrupted with the arrival of Keeper Ferqyr, who hands them a sheaf of papers, and starts leading them deeper into the Vaults of the temple.
"Oh my..." The doctor mutters, as he tries to juggle the pages and the sights with equal interest. He slowly starts to trail behind, as both prove far too distracting.
"Still alive?" He suddenly blurts out, stopping suddenly as he looks at the notes he was handed. "Oh my... that changes everything."
He looks up with an excited smile. "Did you read this. They believe the Ruby Phoenix to still be alive, do you know what... Oh..."
His voice trails off as he notices where he is standing, in the middle of the vault, and sees Ferqyr withdrawing the small miniature city from the locked box.
"Axis, you say? Outstanding." He mutters, as he moves closer to the relic, trying to study it.
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A Garundi man with a shaved head and something strange about his eyes enters the room. Clearly an arcane spellcaster, he surveys the group, looking for a familiar face.
"Ah, Dravakuul! We haven't met, but your reputation precedes you. My name is Chabon. At your service." He the circulates, introducing himself to everyone.
"Dr. Strang, perhaps we can compare spellbooks before this misadventure is over?"
"Chabon, we have some friends in common. This will be fun--if Axis isn't too uptight."
Adventuring in Axis
Because the plane of Axis is strongly law-aligned,some spells function differently there than elsewhere. Additionally, creatures with non-lawful alignments take penalties from being on a plane of pure law. (For more information on these planar effects, see Chapter 7 of the Pathfinder RPG GameMastery Guide, or Chapter 2 of Pathfinder RPG Planar Adventures.)
Strongly Law-Aligned: Creatures who are not lawful aligned take a –2 penalty on all Intelligence-, Wisdom-, and Charisma-based checks. (Including Will saves.)
Enhanced Magic: A spell or spell-like ability with the lawful descriptor functions as if its caster level were 2 higher.
Impeded Magic: To cast a spell or spell-like ability with the chaotic descriptor, a caster must attempt a concentration check (DC = 20 + the level of the spell). If the check fails, the spell does not function but is still lost as a prepared spell or spell slot. If the check succeeds, the spell functions normally.
With approval from the party of Pathfinders, Ferqyr instructs you to place a hand on the golden model of the city. As she intones the command phrase for the device, the room disappears and the device transports you to a tasteful reception room on Axis using a variation of plane shift.
The reception room is decorated with ornate stone benches, tables, and chairs, and it overlooks an enormous circular plaza hosting the Eternal Emporium, a miles-wide expanse of colorful stalls that comprise one of the largest markets in the Great Beyond. From there waft the smells of spices, cooked meat, fresh fruits, and much more, and beings from across the multiverse are visible buying and selling all manner of goods. To the right you can see one of the massive gates leading into Aktun, the center of Axis and domain of Abadar, decorated with gold- and silver-traced murals. Standing atop the wall looms the Lawgiver, Abadar’s herald who takes the form of a fully armored warrior made of gold and steel.
The reception room’s only occupant is a creature that looks like a miniature draft horse, with dark blue metallic skin, golden eyes, and a white star-shaped patch on her forehead. As you arrive, she greets you in your native tongue: "Welcome, traveling priests of Abadar! It's been so long since we had visitors! What ecclesiastical errand brings you to the Eternal City?"
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Heccan listens as the priest details their mission. He reads through the letter, nodding with with clear interest at its contents. The Chelaxian reacts to Strang's comments.
"I agree good doctor. Abadar has always fascinated me. I had a few run ins with some of their priests in the lower courts of Egorian, good drafters but with no flair for presentation." Heccan glances at the priest and winces, forgetting momentarily where he was and flashes an apologetic grin. "Ah, in any event, Axis sounds, well not fun excatly, but certainly somewhere I need to be able to brag about visiting!" He spies Dravakuul and quirks a brow. "You look like you are used to leading the charge. By all means, after you!"
Heccan spies the horse and, thankfully, recognizes its nature. He smiles at the servant of the plane's patron.
"Ah yes, hello! Thank you for receiving us, praise the laws. We come in search of a long lost friend that we must speak to of an urgent if delicate manner. I assure you we shall be on our best behavior while guest in your magnificent city." Heccan bows his head id respect to the horse and secretly congratulates himself on not cracking one equine joke.
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Strang looks around the room they arrive in with instant curiosity... though is a little disappointed to note it doesn't seem much different than something he'd see in Katheer or Katapesh.
Of course, then he notices what's outside the window, and all is forgiven.
"Outstanding." He says, as he seems fixated on the sights. Of course, he completely overlooks the tauric creature in his reverie, until he hears Heccan responding to her greeting.
"Oh, I say..." he says, happily. "Uh... greetings." He finally manages, before indicating the bazaar beyond the windows. "I must say, that is quite the site to greet visitors!"
"I am Doctor Menes Strang," He adds, with a slight bow of his head. "Thank you for allowing us to visit this glorious city of yours."
The creature replies to Heccan, "Oh, you are not priests? But it seems that you are hear for lawful purpose, so I will assist you. I am Esfir, member of the 14th Order, 289th Echelon of Abadar’s eternal retinue, and you have arrived at the Guesthouse of the Cage outside of Aktun, the domain of thriceblessed Abadar.” Your host tosses their mane. "How did you come to be here, and what brings you to Axis?"
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"Oh, I am indeed a devotee of the gods." Strang corrects Esfir. "The great Anubis himself is my patron. Though I do not believe he makes his home here."
"We are under contract with the Vault of Absalom, The City at the Center of the World." He stops suddenly, then amends with an embarrassed grin. "Or at least the center of our world."
"We come as representatives of the the Church of Abadar there, with their blessing." He adds. "All i's dotted, and t's crossed."
"We are looking for someone from our own world, who we believe might be here, in Axis. We seek her assistance to avoid a tragedy in our own." He frowns for a moment, as he suddenly realizes that Axis is not just this one city. "Though perhaps it will be too much to hope she is actually here in Aktun."
"I don't suppose you folks have a directory of some sort? A planar census if you will, that might help us locate someone?"
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Heccan continues to address the holy horse with respect and courtesy and opens his mouth to ask the orsheval about Ho Jin directly before Stang address the lawful servant. Noting the good doctor also refrained from speaking about the Ruby Phoenix directly, decides to listen to the holy horse's reaction before adding more, still offering the servant of order a warm smile.
When you mention that you have a formal arrangement, the orsheval chuffs in relief. "That sounds more usual. I was somewhat suspicious about your arrival, truth be told." At your query about a planar directory, they tilt their head to the side a bit. "I don't believe that such a directory exists, though it is an excellent idea. I am familiar with most of the notable residents of Axis, however, and I may be able to help you locate the person you seek."
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Heccan looks to Dr. Strang for a moment before turning back to the orsheval. He shrugs, not used to bring so forthright in negotiations, he fights his nature and decides to get to the heart of the matter. "We seek none other than the Ruby Phoenix herself, the renowned practitioner Ho Jin. I am certain she would be someone your citizens would take note of, even in this city of miracles."
Esfir thinks for a moment. “I have heard that name, though not for some time. Come, we can investigate.” Esfir leads the PCs to the building’s ground floor and consults a large book while turning pages with mage hand. At last she reaches a very old entry and concludes, “Here: Hao Jin, a sorcerer of considerable power arrived 333 years ago, after which there’s no formal record of her having departed. This designation here indicates she received formal reprimand from the Eternal City soon afterward, and the last entry points to her performing research in the Empty Court as a guest of the axiomites.”
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"Ha!" Strang exclaims, as Esfir leads them to the book. "I knew they'd have a record of some kind." He eagerly peers over her shoulder, trying to get a glimpse at some of the other entries... though more out of abject curiosity, than any desire to snoop.
"And this is no ordinary bureaucracy." Dr. Strang adds, in response to Dreggar's comment. "To many of the folks here, a few centuries is like a day to us mortal folk."
He gives a polite bow to Esfir. "If this Empty Court keeps as good a records as you do here, I'm sure we can try to pick up her trail there. Could you direct us there?"
"Oh, and would the specifics of her reprimand be recorded somewhere?" He asks, a moment later. "Perhaps they have an address on record."
Esfir proudly explains, “There are numerous forms of accelerated transportation in Axis, including a host of gateways for public use. I shall provide you directions to the most convenient one, which should take you to within sight of the Empty Court.” They consider for a moment, and then continue, "“The Empty Court was the divine realm of Aroden. When he mysteriously perished more than a century ago, it began to collapse. Be careful, as it is no longer part of Axis and does not benefit from the Eternal City’s protection.”
That seems to remind the orsheval of another important tip for travelers. "Do remember that Axis is a realm of perfect order. Fomenting chaos is highly frowned upon, and engaging in acts of public violence within the city itself will be dealt with by the appropriate authorities."
"No, the protections of Axis do not apply to the Empty Court. It is a dangerous and disorderly place."
"The Empty Quarter is a wasteland of dust and ruins. Axis officially cordoned off the divine realm with a golden wall guarded by inevitables, declaring the region no longer part of Axis until it could be claimed by a new ruler. As a result, sundry groups contest the realm to this day. Really, you could run into anyone there." Esfir's disapproval of the state of affairs is very clear. "Come, if you are going to look for your sorceress, we should begin."
Esfir leads you out of the gatehouse and into the Eternal Emporium. You are surrounded by all manner of vendors and goods. Even the great bazaars of Katapesh seem tiny--and tame!--by comparison.
Should you wish to purchase anything, everything that you can imagine--and many things that you couldn't--is available in the Emporium. Esfir continues to chat as you make your way, pointing out the orderly nature of transactions and the organization of the various stalls.
Eyes pealed for trouble, you follow Esfir until they reach a small rotunda where a semicircular wall partially encloses a fountain. Seven arches in the wall each have a lantern that hangs nearby, with flames that ignite and extinguish for a minute at a time. While the flame burns, creatures periodically walk into the arches and disappear, and while a given flame is out, creatures sometimes step out from that arch.
Esfir makes for the rightmost arch, but a humanoid figure with metallic writing covering its perfect skin steps forward, as if to intercept the orsheval. "Stand down, petitioner. I know what I'm about," they say before turning to you. "This portal doesn’t see much use anymore, but that it travels to within sight of the Empty Court. You should be fine from here. Just walk through the archway when the lantern is ignighted. Please, call on me if you need any further directions."
There's no further sign of anyone watching you.
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"Will you look at that." Strang says, at the sight of the lantern portals. "All the places they must lead."
"Is there a directory somewhere? So you know which leads where?" He asks Esfir, as he watches the creatures going in and out, trying to see if there is any writing or symbols that might hint at where each might connect to. "Would love to visit the realm of Anubis while we're here... does one of those lead there?"
"Oh, and you never did say if the reprimand that Hao Jin supposedly received might be on record somewhere..." He adds.
Esfir answer's Dr. Strang's queries: "I am sure there is a directory at Portal Authority, but each set of portals also has keepers that can direct your to your desired locations. I'm unaware of any that lead to the domain of Anubis."
"Hao Jin's judicial records would be handled by the court system. It seems unlikely that you would be granted access to such documents, and I have no need for such access in fulfilling my duties."
At Dravakuul's comments, Esfir just snorts, and stomps a foreleg.