Detect evil.
If no evil detected:
“We are in possession of the scepter of the dread pharaoh. We want to know how to destroy it and we were led to believe the church of Pharasma might be able to assist us.”
Dar: you should have money (this was haul from temple)
33,500 gp
Evil Scepter
+2 ring of protection 8,000 gp
+2 amulet of mighty fists 16,000 gp
+3 bracers of armor 9,000 gp
Ring of eloquence 3,500 gp
+4 headband of inspired wisdom 16,000 gpWeed: Think it’s only 200 gold for the barge fee, 4 x 50 gold each
Agree to give the pack animals.
Head out on journey when barge is ready.
We can probably liquidate here in Sothis and purchase items as well.
Xarthia's eyes grow wide at Dagor's announcement and you hear a little tremble in her previously calm voice-If what you say is true, this is dire news indeed. The scepter has remained hidden and guarded for hundreds of years. It's reappearance on this world will draw forth all types of evil that desires to possess it and use its powers to further their own designs as well as those of Urgathoa.
We can certainly research what methods might be used to destroy it, but I am certain the path to success will be treacherous and deadly. I must tell you that I am duty bound to inform the ministers of the Ruby Prince about this and that they will also have an interest as to what happens next. If you have it with you, I am able to offer you the sanctuary of this place to house it with the knowledge that we will use all of our powers to ensure that it does not leave again except to head to its destruction.
“I think that would be agreeable, it is not something we want to be carrying around. Dardanius if you would be so kind as to place the scepter where Xarthia indicates.”
Xarthia leads the party through a series of passages and rooms that lead downward to a crypt-like area. At the front of the room is an alabaster coffin on top of a black dais. Xarthia looking at Dardanius-Place the scepter in the coffin and close the lid. The Gray Lady will keep it secure until we determine what to do with it next.
Dardanius places the scepter in the coffin and closes the lid.
Thank you for helping us, Xarthia.
Dardanius make a DC 17 Will save!
Dardanius feels worried . . .
Dardanius struggles to place the scepter in the stone coffin for a moment before overcoming whatever is resisting him.
Xarthia nods and escorts you back to the main level of the temple-Where will you be staying? I will send word if we discover anything of use, although my guess is our research will take several weeks at least. In addition, the Council of Sun and Sky is certain to want to talk to you about this discovery and I will need to know where to direct them.
“We just arrived in the city and came here immediately. Is there somewhere close by that you can recommend? We also need to sell and buy magical equipment if you can recommend a place for that as well.”
There are several reputable inns located in the Canal District, nowhere bad to stay there really. If you need something fancy you should look across the Grand Canal in Aru-Da; it will be pricey, but quite nice. Finally, anything you want to buy or sell can be found in Street of Artisans. Everything there is quite reputable and while the prices might be a little more than you will find in the Rose Quarter you are unlikely to be robbed or murdered.
we thank you for your kindness....let us take stock of our equipment and see what magical items would strengthen our party....for i am sure there are trials ahead...
"Thank you. I think we will likely be staying in the Canal District."
------
Head out and find an inn in the Canal District.
"Let's keep our eyes and ears open for trouble."
The party quickly finds a reasonable place to stay at a clean and respectable inn that caters to mid-class travelling merchants. The common room is well run and, while the food is not spectacular, you get the distinct feeling that there are no rat droppings in your meals or drinks. The overheard conversations appear to be what you would expect, mostly talk about shipping costs, weather, and taxes. You are paid little mind outside the fact that you are the only obvious non-merchants staying there.
The party can transact as needed. Sothis is a massive city and you will have access to anything you can afford.
I'll let you settle out what you want to do before setting the next scene.
Per my calculations Turran, Weed, and Dar each get 28,667 gold.
thanks for the legwork Dagor
any suggestions anyone...im always at a loss as to what would benefit me and the party
better AC and Better weapon?
Belt of physical might +4STR/+4CON or +2/+2 version if you don't have the money.
+6 belt of STR
Belt of physical perfection +2STR/+2CON/+2DEX
Upgrade armor or weapon to +3 or +4 or put keen on your weapon
Upgrade your cloak and/or ring
Some other random thoughts:
https://www.reddit.com/r/Pathfinder_RPG/comments/2cv8z8/master_list_of_esse ntialuseful_magic_items/
thanks for suggestions
Dagor will sit in the common room of the Inn and see if he can learn anything of interest by watching and listening to the other patrons while enjoying a local brew.
Most of the chatter is regular trader talk. However, there are a few excited mentions of a massive roc being sighted in the deep desert. One of the giant birds has not been seen in over twenty years and legend has it that when they appear momentous times are afoot.
Dar comes back from his errands (equipment purchase, letter to his community and family, perhaps finding a shrine to Erastil).
He joins Dagor at the table and takes a long pull from his tankard.
So, where do you think we should go next?
Retcon earlier: Return to temple or send word to Xarthia of where we are staying.
Quietly but casually to Dardanius:
“I think we need to stay here at least until we hear back from the person we met about our errand. There was also something about a speaking engagement mentioned.”
Trying to see if anyone is watching or listening to us.
Walking up to the table with Dagor and Daranius:
“There you are brother, I thought I would find you doing something more constructive than drinking in a tavern. Are you vanquishing evil ales?”
“Taking a well deserved rest Amarth, if you must know. The better question is why are you here sister?”
“You’ve been summoned back to that cult of Ragathiel you belong to in Magnimar, they paid me handsomely to find you and bid you return. It’s taken me the better part of four months to track you down so you had better hurry home, sounds like a crisis is brewing.”
“Cult? It is a church as you well know. Why is it your nature to continually try to provoke me? What else can you tell me of the summons? Can I delay? I have important business here as well. I forget my manners, Dardanius this is my sister Amarth. Sister this is a companion of mine, Daranius.”
“Whatever it is, it’s serious, I think you need to return now to Magnimar. Come I know of at least one ship leaving for Magnimar on this evening’s tide.”
“I will go, but you must stay to help Dardanius and his colleagues. What they do is critical, you will see. Promise me!”
“Alright, alright brother, I promise I will aid them, though I am sure if you were involved that I will likely live to regret it.”
“I pray that you live sister, and Dardanius and his companions too. I do not jest, take this seriously.”
“Aye brother, it will be as you say. Now make haste to the waterfront. The ship you seek is named the Sea Snake. Fair winds!”
“And following seas to you, farewell Dardanius, keep my sister safe.”
Dagor rushes out.
“Another ale Dardanius? Please tell me you’re not a Paladin of Ragathiel.”
Amarth orders more ale.
*Surprise, I got bored waiting and made a new character.
The common room grows a little quiet as everyone watches the exchange between the dazzling woman and her brother but otherwise no one appears to be paying the group any attention.
Appears Amarth and Dardanius are ready.
Weed, Turran?
“Another ale Dardanius? Please tell me you’re not a Paladin of Ragathiel.”
Amarth orders more ale.
*Surprise, I got bored waiting and made a new character.
Mysterious is completely unsurprised. +8 for stat/skill bonus; +4 for circumstance bonus (it's John and he does this regularly)
Dagor, have a safe trip. I hope we get a chance to adventure again.
Turran raises his mug and takes a drink, then turns to Amrath
Amrath, your help is welcomed.
After several days of equipping and getting to know Amarth a well dressed man with a light weight white tabbard covered in eye sigils meets them in the common room.
My name is Danesh and I hereby summon you to meet with the Council of the Sun and Sky. Your escort is waiting for us outside.
after purchasing new equipment....weed returns to meet with the party
Amarth joins Danesh and the escort.
What have you gotten me into Dagor?
Lead on, sir
Dar heads out with the party.
Seeing the party is willing, Danesh leads them outside where they are met by a troop of twenty guardsmen in chain, shield, and longswords. Well crafted eye sigil medallions keep their white cloaks about their shoulders.
The people that tend to throng the streets of Sothis give wide birth to the party and its escort as they lead you across the center bridge of the city and towards the massive Black Dome at the heart of the city. The guards manning the gate to the Old City acknowledge Danesh and allow the group to pass into heart of the district.
As you approach the Black Dome you begin to realize its true size and marvel at the legends that Azghaad, first Pharaoh of Osirion, was able to fight and ultimately defeat the first spawn of Rovagug Ulunat, which was said to be a hulking, three-eyed monstrosity with four wings, ten limbs tipped with blades, and a black mirrored carapace.
You pass from the Old City under the shadow of the Black Dome and feel a bit of a chill as the temperature loses some of its always oppressive heat. The interior of the gigantic carapace is filled with well crafted opulent buildings clearly belonging to the leaders of the large and wealthy country. Light is provided by cleverly carved holes in the top of the dome covered by some type of glass that magnifies the outside light without allowing any heat to enter.
Danesh leads you to a door of the most magnificent building which you assume is a palace and after several twists and turns you find yourself in a richly appointed waiting room.
Danesh-I will have refreshments brought to you while you wait. I must officially report your arrival even though it is already known that you are here. The Council should not take long to see you, but it is a large group and some of the Councilors are, shall we say, capricious. I will return to you and join your wait once I have discharged my duties. Under no circumstances should you try to leave this room. Walking unattended in the palace and without authorization is punishable by death; if you're lucky.
He exits and a few moments later chilled water and fresh fruit and breads are brought to you by the palace slaves.
“We may have a difficult time remaining inconspicuous after that, I felt like half the city was watching. Anyone want to explore the palace? Don’t give me that look Dardanius, you’re as bad as my brother! I was just kidding…mostly.”
After about thirty minutes Danesh returns to the join you in the waiting room. The Council is aware of your presence and has agreed to see you before finishing their business for the day. When you go before them it would be wise if you are circumspect in your speech. There are many members on the Council that seek to advance themselves at any cost and your discovery has stirred the waters terribly. The First Speaker may not remain so much longer depending on future events.
Great, now we have to deal with an evil artifact and politicians, double the fun.
"Be careful what we say, got it. Lead on."
Are there any sensitive topics we should be aware of? Why might the first speaker lose their position, if you don't mind me asking?
Danesh-The artifact you have recovered is one of the most sought after and dreaded relics of ancient Osirion. Men have hunted for it for over a thousand years. Men that will do anything to possess it. Anything.
It is said that the return of the Scepter is a herald of some great evil to fall upon the land and now we also have reports of a massive desert roc flying across the desert skies; another portent of troubling times.
There is already enough strain in the Council without these omens and nowhere close to all one hundred of the Seated support Dahnakrist Phi. Many seek to find power and wealth from their positions. Dahnakrist does his best to represent the interests of the Ruby Prince and the people of Osiron and that often pits him against other less noble members of the Council.
Do not be provoked by any questions or statements the Council might throw at you. Some of them will certainly try to bait you and find a reason to imprison you or otherwise bring you under their control. Be careful!
With that he leads you out of the waiting room and through a series of tunnels ending in a finely crafted set of brass inlaid double doors. He pushes them open and ushers you into the center pit of a large circular amphitheater surrounded by very vertical rows of seats and benches that are largely occupied by a diverse set of individuals.
A kindly looking older man, body clearly weathered by years of sun and hard labor, sits in a high-backed chair that dominates the setting. He slowly rises and addresses the group-Welcome travelers, my name is Dahnakrist Phi and I have the honor of servicing the Ruby Prince in all matters brought before this Council. Who will speak for you with regards to the finding of the Scepter and your involvement in this momentous event?
-Dar is the master of diplomacy-