Venture-Captain Amara Li is waiting in a well-maintained private garden behind a house on a quiet street in Ramparassad, the capital city of Dtang Ma, a nation in eastern Tian Xia. She speaks once everyone has arrived and has had an opportunity to enjoy tea. “When first I arrived in Absalom two years ago, I had a simple but nuanced mission: to increase communication and sharing of resources between the Pathfinder Society and its counterpart in Tian Xia by establishing the Lantern Lodge’s position on the other side of the world.”
She pauses briefly to sip her tea, before adding, “More than a year ago we successfully purchased and restored the house known as Hinojai, which was once a base for the Way of the Kirin. When we acquired Hinojai, it was as much a gambit to attract the attention of the remaining agents of the Way of the Kirin as it was an opportune acquisition of real estate. And indeed, a man claiming to be an agent of the Way recently contacted me by leaving me a message here.”
“Although the Way of the Kirin fell into ruin with the fall of Lung Wa a century ago, its far-reaching resources remain valuable, and it still commands great respect. If the Pathfinder Society could ally itself with the Way, the relationship would be of immense benefit to both organizations."
Amara’s voice reveals her satisfaction as she says, “Pathfinders, we are on the cusp of just such an alliance. In a day’s time, we shall meet with this representative from the Way of the Kirin, and you are to act as security for me and ensure that the meeting is a success. I do not expect any trouble from the Way, but after all of the betrayals and double-crosses that the Society has experienced over the past few years, I worry that this is an elaborate setup by the Aspis Consortium. I have arranged for us all to be transported to the site early tomorrow morning, so take care of any errands you have in Ramparassad this afternoon. There are no settlements near our destination, and we will be spending the night there. I expect you understand the need to be fully prepared.”
Amara Li stares into the dregs of her tea as though she were attempting to discern some lost thoughts in the green leaves floating at the cups bottom, then looks up. “Ah yes—before the negotiations begin in earnest, I will host a formal tea ceremony to set the tone. I encourage you to participate, though doing so is not required. I would, however, expect you to dress appropriately for the event.” With that she stands and waits to accept any questions.
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A lanky but langorous figures rises from a sitting position on the garden bench to the left of where Venture-Captain Amara Li is standing. The tall slim halfelf bows deeply, elegantly draping the loose end of what resembles a fine scarlet Tian Xia nobleman's outfit over on arm, whilst cupping a glass of red wine in his other hand. He puts it down in the path beside him, and raises a hand in question: "Venture Captain, first I must thatnk you for the opportunity to serve this project so far from home. I have always valued the variety of places the Society has despatched me, and this elegant city does not disappoint."
He takes a sip of wine"But I must ask a few questions of the possible challenges ahead, if we are succeed in our roles as protectors of your body.
Firstly, the tea ceremony. Can you tell us who might be in attendance, and whether there are any known security risks within their number? Also, what role do you need us to play at this ceremony - will we be bystanders or participants in the ceremony"
"Secondly, there is the matter of the possible ambush at the meeting place. What can you tell us of the location. We must be fully prepared. Are their any specific hazards / hitment you are concerned about?"
He takes one more sip. ""Finally - the most important question. Do we have time for a brief nap? I rather over-indulged last night, on local delicacies, local rice wine, and a local merchantman's wife. Terribly regrettable of course." He holds one hand to his temple in obvious distress. "At least, can we at least coduct the rest of the briefing in whispers? My head is so delicate this morning."
He falls silent - either from his enervated state, or from an urge to avoid belching noxious alcoholic fumes in her direction.
Crowe frowns, ”Tea, I like, as long as it gets made quickly.”
Amara Li's gaze appears languid on the surface but there is a sharp edge under them that seems to cut past any of Castinus' defenses as she examines him and weighs his questions.
"Only we, the representatives of the Way of the Kirin and a pair of servants I have hand picked will be there for the tea ceremony. I do not expect any trouble from the Way of the Kirin, and we have taken considerable measures to ensure this mission is secret. Even so, I am certain that both the Golden League and the Aspis Consortium would leverage every resource to prevent this alliance.”
"As for your participation, not only is it allowed, it is encouraged. My hope is to prove the Pathfinder Society's worth to the Way of the Kirin so polite," she emphasizes the word as she looks around at the gathered group "participation by as many as possible is advantageous."
“To ensure the utmost secrecy, I will not reveal the location of the meeting until after we have left in the morning. There are too many curious ears in Ramparassad. It is a remote location without any civilization around, however.”
She seems amused by Castinus' final question, at least there is a faint smile on her lips when she answers. "We are not leaving until tomorrow morning so feel free to recover as necessary. Though might I suggest avoiding the...dog that bit you?"
"I fear you may have to have patience for a proper tea ceremony, Crowe. Such things cannot be rushed or they are ruined."
“Typically one wears formal court dress or formal armor. I doubt that our contact will be particular about which you choose.” Amara answers Diazepane's question.
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"What do you mean by "Formal armour", exactly?" asks Castinus, leaning forward, "You mean, like the banded mail those ronin samurai in the marketplace wear?" He frowns. "I'm afraid I'm not following you. I prefer my protection to be a little lighter, more free-moving. Is there any way I could get away with formal dress worn over my leathers?" Castinus stands and peers doubtfully at his superior quality but undeniably travel-stained studded leather jerkin. "Unless you can spare us all some charges of your mage armour, Grandblade; I hate to feel under prepared for trouble..."
He casts an appraising glance at Amara Li. "I hear what you say about secrecy and all - but trouble follows the Society like flies follow Ghlaunder. What is your position on weaponry at this 'tea party'? Some of us are looking less than subtle in our armoury choices..." He casts a glance at Grandblade's greatsword and Crowe's earthbreaker."Are those welcome?"
"You are there as security as much as guests so whatever armor you feel most comfortable in is appropriate. And Iko is a samurai so he is well accustomed to weapons being on display during such a ceremony. Finery over armor would be perfectly acceptable, and having weapons at hand is also acceptable," Amara replies.
Crowe peers into his purse, "Anyone want to help with some clothes shopping? I never know what to buy."
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Crowe peers into his purse, "Anyone want to help with some clothes shopping? I never know what to buy."
Castinus drains his wine glass, then climbs unsteadily to his feet, straightens and stretches. "Come on then Crowe old fellow - let's see what styles of clothing are getting all the talk in Ramparassad today."
Castinus will venture forth into the markets and haberdasheries nearby, seeking to find a courtier's outfit that would fit atop him studded leather, whilst not encumbering him in melee. And maybe a bar or two after.
As Casinus and Crowe wander the streets, looking for clothes, they also can also get a feel for what's going on in the area and get more information about The Way of the Kirin and the Golden League.
Members of the Golden League have been spotted all over Ramparassad, and it looks as though they are watching for someone.
A Minkai member of the Golden League visited Ramparassad recently—the local Xun all seemed afraid of him. Named Mikogu Shimazi, he is a ruthless man with a reputation for throwing away the lives of his subordinates to accomplish a goal.
Once a friend of the Way of the Kirin, Shimazi turned his back on the organization when it refused to support him against an enemy. He has since joined the Golden League and denounced his former friends.
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"Fear not, my friends! For I am quite knowledgeable in the topics of the Way of the Kirin and the Golden League!"
"Golden League toughs have been more visible than usual in Ramparassad, though they have not caused much trouble. Members of the Golden League have been spotted all over Ramparassad, and it looks as though they are watching for someone."
"A Minkai member of the Golden League visited Ramparassad recently—the local Xun all seemed afraid of him. Named Mikogu Shimazi, he is a ruthless man with a reputation for throwing away the lives of his subordinates to accomplish a goal."
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Kal listens closely before choosing to stand. He wears his traditional white robes and cloak, lined in a deep blue and trimmed in a simple gold embroidery- polished breastplate overlaying the robe. The outfit itself is quite nice, though unlikely to be as formal as this particular tea party might require.
Reaching out, the pale skinned Ganzi places a hand on the Half-elf's shoulder- the torch light reflecting momentarily on his deep black finger nails. Behind the movement appears to swirl small eddy's of energy that in a quick moment are gone, almost as if they were figments of your imagination.
"I struggle to see the value in courting a failed society- though it has brought us some very unique experiences thus far" accented with a wide smile and squeeze on his half-elf friends shoulder. "But far be it from me to question the decemvirate." While respectful and proper, there is just enough of a possibility for sarcasm in his voice to cast doubt on his motives. He lowers his hands and turns back toward the Venture-Captain.
"I could perhaps go without my longarm, should that be beneficial. I am certain I can find some way to protect myself or the others if the need should arise. I will take advantage of the time here to restock some of my magical supplies. I appear to have overlooked several important items in preparation for our last encounter, and I hope to not do that again"
"Well come, let's see what we can be found here in the daylight." A smile invites those present to join him, while an undetectable breeze blows the hair out of his face as it ripples behind them.
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Suddenly a small explosion is heard and a small bird, a tengu emerges from the wetland and dust " Hello friends welcome to my home, the wonderful Tian, you thought you were going to get rid of me so easily", Ichio again turns to Amara and he bows before her in a martial way, "My most formal greetings, noble Amara, I have arrived as soon as I have been required. I am your most loyal servant." He turns to the group again " What have you since last time we met?"
"Once a friend of the Way of the Kirin, Shimazi turned his back on the organization when it refused to support him against an enemy. He has since joined the Golden League and denounced his former friends."
The group are able to make whatever purchases they like, finding fancy clothing in a variety of styles if that is what they are looking for, including entertainment if that should be their preference.
But they are gathered together early the next morning. Amara Li and two servants are waiting, the latter holding a chest with ornate carving, enameling and gold leaf between them.
Amara greets them with polite warmth, though it takes only a moment to see that she is sizing them, and their capacity to perform their tasks, up with every look.
A wizened woman approaches once everyone is together. Her hands move like spiders swimming through the air and her words flow like fish climbing through the room for several seconds.
There is a flash and chill and a moment when the Pathfinders are certain that they don't exist and then they find themselves no longer in the Pathfinder outpost in Ramparassad but on a somewhat desolate and remote isle.
"Do not be alarmed. We are now on a small volcanic island at the northern end of the Minatan Archipelago," Amara tells them.
A black stone pier juts out from the beach, though years of pounding surf and use make it impossible to discern whether it was magic or skilled hands that constructed it. Igneous black sand peppered with chunks of dark gray rock makes up the beach. Further up the hill, the landscape is filled with strange shapes eroded from the charcoal-colored stone. Wild basalt beasts, bizarre pumice chimneys, igneous archways, and twisted stone snakes line the winding mile long path that crawls up the steep hillside. The black tiles of the lighthouses’s rooftop is just barely visible between two of the more serpentine stone menhirs. A light mist dampens the docks and darkens the stone to a glossy black. It also makes anything more than a few dozen yards away indistinct.
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Castinus stands stock still, hands on hips, drinking in the view. He stands resplendent in a scarlet and gold tunic, atop studded leather seemingly finished in gold braid. His beard is clipped and his fingers manicured. As the thin mist whips around his caped shoulders he stands and drinks in the stunning view.
"Venture-Captain Li - I owe you my gratitude. This is a jewel, a vista of unforgettable beauty. Whatever else happens today, I am thankful you have shown us this magical place." He bows, deeply.
Once the moment has been savoured, he casts his eyes keenly around the group. He smiles to see old friends again, and checks all are ready for whatever trials lay ahead. Turning his attention to the servants and the ornate chest they carry. "Lady Li - may I examine the chest before we begin our ascent? I like to be thorough in our preparations."
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Kal quickly heads off into the streets with Castinus and Crowe, milling about the open markets and bustling crowds. After stops at a potion maker, wand shop, and tailor- Kal feels far more prepared for the next few days.
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The Ganzi moves along the pier, to the edge of the obsidian outcropping, and stares off into the mist. The cold moisture sticks to his pale skin and his cloak's random blowing appears to settle under the additional weight.
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"Hello, Lady Li! It is I, Grandblade the non-human Aphorite here to help with all endeavors and struggles!" He loudly proclaims, "This property does appear to be in desirable conditions for one such as myself, and of course all my comrads!"
1st- Mage Armor, Long Arm, Shield, Expeditious Construction(2)
2nd - Fiery Rune, Bull's Strength, Scorching Ray
3rd - Rage, Haste
Crowe purchases some unusually fine clothing and two sunrods.
He wears the outfit, but pulls at it often, ”All this for tea. Ha! Pathfinding is never dull.”
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On the island, Crowe peers apprehensively into the mist, ”What lies beyond?”
Amara nods her appreciation to Castinus' eloquent words. "I'm sure it can wait until we get to the house. I, for one, do not relish the idea of standing out in this weather for longer than I have to," she replies to his suggestion.
She turns a nod to Grandblade. "Your presence is welcomed. I can only hope that your presence and manners are more valuable to our endeavor than your sword and spells."
Li takes a moment to straighten a line in Crowe's outfit. It both makes it more comfortable and more presentable. "The house is up there. Not too far."
Kal'Ryon's perceptive eyes pierce the haze, but there is nothing to see other than a few crabs searching for food along the water line and a few seabirds hovering almost motionlessly in the winds over the tide.
A lighthouse towers above a two-story house. Both structures are made primarily of the local soot-colored basalt. The lighthouse appears to be intact, but the manor has fared less well—its windows lack screens and its roof sags, suggest it has suffered badly from decades of neglect. These structures perch at the edge of a cliff, with the north-facing side of the house supported by tall stilts anchored deep into the cliff.
Once they get into the entryway, Amara Li nods to the two servants and they set down the chest. "Feel fee to examine the contents, Mr. Fulvio," she says to Castinus.
She then turns to the rest of you. "Feel free to explore and make yourselves at home. And I'm sure, as Pathfinders you can find interesting ways to make yourselves at home," she tells the group.
Crowe head for the lighthouse first, eager to reach the top and get the lie off the land.
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The pathfinders turn and head off up the path and towards the light house. He pauses for an elongated moment before turning back from the mist and the waves. Why would we seek shelter from weather like this..
The Ganzi hurries to catch up with the other pathfinders, only just reaching the others at the door of the ruined hut.
"A welcoming place, I could see myself quite happy here!" he laughs as he enters into the rundown house, quickly choosing to follow Crowe up the steps towards the top of the lighthouse.
The lighthouse rises 30 feet and is built of the same dark basalt as the nearby house. A slightly arched covered bridge connects the second floors of the two structures. Inside, the lighthouse contains only a small storage area and a wooden spiral staircase that winds its way up to the tower’s top. A trapdoor at the top of the stairs exits to a narrow walkway with a railing that encircles the middle of the small room that houses the lantern. The lighthouse’s lantern is still functional, but the lens and half of the glass panes that would have once protected and focused the flame are now broken from years of bad weather and lack of maintenance.
Castinus - 0
Crowe - 5?
Diazepane - 0
Grandblade - 0
Kal'Ryon - 5?
Ichio - 0
Crowe pokes around the lighthouse.
Crowe sniffs the air and looks at Kal, ”Magic, perhaps?”
While searching the lighthouse, Kal'Ryon, Crowe and Ichio find that the bottom floor is full of a jumble of old supplies. Most of it is uninteresting but Crowe spots a couple of rusty (but functional) bear traps and a 20 gallon drum of oil, presumably for the light.
The trio also discover some pieces of lumber and iron that are most of the parts of a catapult. Unfortunately, not all the pieces are there and will require replacements. Additionally, it will all have to be put back together. But the task is not impossible and could likely be completed in half an hour or so.
A spiral staircase winds around the inside of the stone structure and ends at a trapdoor. Going beyond places them in the lightroom. A quick look reveals that the lighthouse’s lantern is still functional, but the lens and half of the glass panes that would have once protected and focused the flame are now broken from years of bad weather and lack of maintenance. A large wick sticks out of a 2 gallon reservoir which is dry.
Diazepane finds himself in a large room that appears to be a great hall and library. Two massive bay windows with window seats topped with ruined silk cushions face north and offer a spectacular view of the ocean and a cluster of smaller islands. There is an immense fireplace against the southern wall and as he searches, Diazepane finds a concealed switch which opens a secret door on a small stairway leading down to a lava tube.
Castinus - 0
Crowe - 5
Diazepane - 5
Grandblade - 0
Kal'Ryon - 5
Ichio - 5
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Castinus roams the halls and corridors of the ground floor of the building, trying to assess whether the building is as deserted and abandoned as first impressions would suggest. He searches for disturbed dust, footprints, or patterns of dirt on the floor that might imply recent visitors...
With Diazepane searching the hall and library, Castinus drifts out to the dining room and hall to the north of it, opening the cupboards and looking under the dining table. Does the building smell musty? Are the chairs fit for use or brittle and fragile?
When the lava tube clicks open, he whirls round at the unexpected noise, hand on the hilt of his weapon and clearly a little on edge.
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"I take back what I said about the maintenance..." Kal mentions as he kicks the clutter out of the lower room and heads up the trap door.
"It is ominous, having a catapult here. Light houses are generally for safe passage, not siege warfare. What could the history of this building be, do you think? I wonder what would happen if we brought that oil up here..." but before he has finished the sentence, the Ganzi is already starting to hoist the 20 gallon barrel up to the upper level.
"Might as well have a little light on the subject!"
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"At least this time there isn't a suspiciously friendly demon egging us to go d9wn the creepy tunnel," Diazepane states.
"Want to head down together?" he asks Castinus.
Castinus nods his assent, but first calls the others to alert them to this new discovery. Immediately before the descent he consumes a Sheild extract and draws his blade.
As Castinus and Diazepame head down, Crowe checks out the nearest unchecked space on the first floor, ready to rush to their aid if needs be.
Castinus sees nothing that suggests that anyone has been here in the recent past before the pathfinders' arrival. There is little of interest in the dining room, no food left behind, a few plates and cups, suggesting the occupants moved and did not flee. The chairs are well used and clearly out of use but not so old as to be fragile, definitely dusty but still usable (this would be an antiquer's dream.)
He and Diazepane head down into the lava tube. It has a stairway leading down into it. The tube is relatively level and wide with no lava in it, currently. It is neither slick nor slippery but after 5 minutes or so, they encounter nothing particularly interesting. There doesn't seem to be any living creatures in there, either. They haven't reached the end, but it does not seem to be a source of threat.
It takes Grandblade and Kal'Ryon about 5 minutes to fill the reservoir and light the wick. Though the light is not focused as it would have been were the lens still intact, it is quite bright and sheds light out to about 100'.
Ichio heads upstairs and finds a spare room (A5.) Devoid of furniture, it's hard to tell exactly what the room was originally for. There is a trapdoor that opens onto the entry hall downstairs and it hangs out over the alcove that leads up to the main doors, outside.
Crowe finds himself in the kitchen (A2.) The kitchen has several large, empty chests that once served as pantry space, an oven with openings in the top for pots of various sizes, a sink, and a single wooden stool. The servants have come in here and are unpacking the tea service.
He is just about to leave when he spots a family crest imprinted on the tiles of the oven.
Crowe calls out from the kitchen, "Anybody good at figuring out those fancy shield-things with weird writing that nobles have?"