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The party has assembled in the Magnimar Lodge's main hall. Venture-Captain Canayven Heidmarch has assembled an elaborate brunch that includes buckwheat porridge, several loaves of rye bread served with butter and apricot, smoked fish, fennel sausages, pickled vegetables, and bowls of fresh fruit and hard boiled eggs. There is even a pot of actual coffee, along with pitchers of water, cider, and milk. The reticent Venture Captain watches expectantly as the summoned adventurers sit down to eat.
"Sheila is busy making preparations," he says in a soft voice. "Sit and eat," he says as he picks an egg out of a bowl and begins to methodically peel off the shell.
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Eredur thanks the Venture Captain for the welcome meal, and sits at the table.
Thank you, Captain Heidmarch. My name is Eredur Smagg, the Younger. I've been working for the Society for a few years now, as an arcane spellcaster.
You can barely count to one before a lithe weasel gets out of the dwarf's shirt and climbs on the table, sniffing the delicious food, as her "master" tries to catch her
Lybna, come back here this moment! Don't gorge yourself! you will have something to eat, but wait a little!!
Eredur apologises to the VC
I'm sorry, weasels aren't known for their table manners, and I'm afraid this lady is quite glutonous.It will be better if I give her some smoked fish before she nibbles on everything, it's one of her favorite treat.
Lybna the weasel waits impatiently until Eredur gives her some fish, and she eats it with appetite. The dwarf hismelf get some bread and butter and some sausages, and tries some coffee.
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Thank you, Venture Captain. I must admit I am famished. I've been studying new skills at the chapel and library. At least I have broadened my skill set a bit. the Sarenite priest says bowing respectfully to the venture Captain. He holds out his hand to the dwarf.
I am Therin. Nice to meet you...and your sidekick as well. I've only heard of weasels as familiars for druids so far. Learn something new every day, I suppose! he says after the introduction. He heads over to the food table and grabs a large mug of coffee and some breakfast foods.
Need to get my mind started...too much time with my nose in a tome lately...
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There are always things to learn, whether in books or through experience and people. Nice to meet you. Excuse me for not being a very religious person myself, even if I pay homage to Nethys, as most arcane users do. And be glad Lybna can't understand you, I'm not sure she would appreciate being called a sidekick. She could "mistake" your fingers for sausages, and get a playful bite of them. You would wound this pretty lady's pride, but nothing another smoked fish could heal, if you catch my drift..
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A well-dressed elf joins the group, leading in a particularly scruffy bear. He directs the bear into a corner, where it sits quietly. "I am Mun, and Selune is my companion," the elf states simply, looking over the spread in front of him. He makes a small plate of some of the fresh fruit, and pours a glass of water. He rolls his eyes when he sees the weasel scampering on the tabletop, but says nothing.
He appears to be waiting for the briefing.
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"Greetings all. I am Finnius von Galimar, of the Order of the Gate and the Silver Crusade." Finnius is an imposing man, 6 foot tall, dressed in the distinctive plate armor of the Order of the Gate, with two bandoleers bandoleers filled with daggers strapped across his chest, two more daggers displayed prominently on his belt, and if you look close enough daggers in each boot and strapped to his wrists as well.
He removes the helmet to reveal a blue eyed, blind haired face, with hair and facial hair both shaved to the approximate same level of stubble. "I thank you for the hospitality, and look forward to correcting the unlawful actions that have drawn us here."
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An impressively tall, muscular Kellid woman ducks through the doorway and glances around self-consciously. She is immediately followed by an over-sized wolverine. She takes stock of all the animals present and gives a chuckle. "Heh. Lots of animals here." She mumbles, dropping her eyes. After a brief pause, she takes a deep breath, straightens her shoulders, and introduces herself. "I'm Kala. This here's Stinky. He'll be your pal if you feed him. Just, uh, stick to meat. Or, uh, you'll find out why I named him that." The last sentence ends in a rush, as if she realized that was not a great introduction, but didn't know how to recover. With much smaller steps than she seems accustomed to using, she approaches the table and loads up a plate with some of everything.
"Yeah, yeah. Hold on boy. I'll get you some." With her fingers, she grabs a bunch of smoked salmon and drops it into Stinky's snapping maw.
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As soon as he enters the room, Stinky's snout pops up into the air as he inhales deeply of the scent of breakfast. Sniff. Snifffff. OOOOH! Kala! There's fish! I smell fish! Can I have some? Please? Oooooohhhhh mannn I want some fish! I'm sooo HUNGRY! Yes! Oh, thank you so much! Yummmmmmomnomnom! He gobbles up the salmon, licking his chops and whining for more as Kala begins shoveling the non-meat portions of her plate into her mouth as if there was an impending time limit for eating.
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"Oh, I see you brought your animals into the dining room with you. I guess no one told you about the stables," the venture captain says with some irritation as a weasel, bear and a badger enter the room. "Just keep them away from the food please. I didn't make enough to feed a bear."
The sound of footsteps echoes down the hallway outside of Heidmarch Manor’s cozy dining room. Venture-Captain Canayven Heidmarch sets down his fork and rises from his chair by the hearth. The stern Venture-Captain’s eyes brighten a bit as he says, “Sheila’s footsteps.” Moments later, the door to the dining room swings open, and Venture-
Captain Sheila Heidmarch enters the room, taking a seat at the head of the table opposite the hearth. Canayven pours her a cup of hot tea as
he addresses her, “Welcome back. The Pathfinder agents you requested have been fed and are ready for their briefing.”
“Splendid,” Sheila replies as she sets a folded piece of parchment down on the table. She smiles and gracefully takes a small sip of the steaming tea, savoring the flavor. “Thank you, Canayven. And Pathfinders, thank you all for coming to Magnimar on such short notice. I’ve specifically requested your presence here because I believe that you’re uniquely suited to helping the city of Magnimar with a problem that seems to be spreading in recent weeks. As you’re likely aware, Magnimar is known across the Inner Sea region as the City of Monuments for the dozens of monuments within city itself and the surrounding region. These monuments are well known for their sacred properties—performing any number of respectful acts at their bases provides a pilgrim with a minor boon. Adventurers and mystery cultists by the droves make pilgrimages to Magnimar for a chance to experience the touch of the divine. But recently, something appears to have changed with
several of these structures.
“A friend of mine in the Varisian Council, one of Magnimar’s governing bodies, has alerted me that several key monuments—namely, the Mistress of Angels in Ordellia, the Founder’s Flame in Naos, and the Cenotaph in the Capital District—have all been sites of strange supernatural occurrences ranging from eerie wailing and spectral lights to magical conflagrations. Lord-Mayor Grobaras appointed a sleuth specializing in the supernatural, a man named Theodorus Ichonvarde, to investigate. However, my contact reports that Ichonvarde’s attempts have borne little fruit thus far, and the council has accused Theodorus of badgering Varisian witnesses. Moreover, several innocents have been harmed in the occurrences at the Founder’s Flame. The implication that
someone—or something—has tampered with Magnimar’s legacy leads me to believe that this is a case best suited to our interests and your abilities.”
Sheila picks up the folded piece of parchment next to her teacup, “I’ve secured an official writ from the Varisian Council to grant you legal permission to investigate. If you’re willing to help Magnimar, I can also lend you some supplies.”
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Eredur tries to remember to which god these monuments are associated with, but he's distracted by Lybna trying to sneak on the table to find some more smoked fish.
It seems the weasel as found some serious competition in fish-eating with "Stinky".
No shame in saying "I don't know", if you want to learn, so I'll ask the question: I'm not familiar with the names of theses monuments. Can someone tell me who are the gods the people pray to at these statues?
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"Just keep them away from the food please. I didn't make enough to feed a bear."
Mun glances over at Selune, sitting quietly in the corner, and smiles as she gives no indication that she's even aware of the food being present.
Mun opens his mouth, ready to jump in and explain what he knows about the Mistress of Angels, the Founder's Flame, and the Cenotaph, but closes it just as quickly, realizing that he only knows of these monuments in the broadest strokes, and likely has nothing to add.
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A stout dwarf of large shiny eyes, like purple gems, steps to the front. His skin is tanned and bright, like the mountains themselves. He wears a full plate engraved with dwarven runes, while one of the largest hammers you have ever seen hangs from his back. The weapon reflects the light as it is made of well polished silver. A necklace with a golden key swings over his breast when he steps forward "The name is Arbiscar"
The dwarf reels back as Kala names her companion Stinky "Indeed, plenty of animals around"
Kneeling in front of Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch and stands up to listen patiently for the reason the group was called off. When he speaks his voice is calm "So you want us to investigate what happened to the monuments?"
"Can we talk with this Theodorus Ichonvarde? Where can we find him or any of the witnesses?"
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Deeeep breath, Kala. Steady. You can do this. Okay... Here goes... Kala digs her fingers into Stinky's coarse, wiry fur and takes a steadying breath. Clearing her throat with only the slightest bit of nervousness (which gives her a boost of pride), she asks: "How exactly were the people hurt at the Founder's Flame? It would help...if we knew exactly what was going on at each monument. ...And, um, if we could see them on a map, in case there's a pattern there, or something." Whew! Okay. I did it. Whoa. All right... She scratches behind Stinky's ears vigorously, sending her feelings of relief, pride, and gratitude to him.
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Sheilareplies, "I do know a little bit about the monuments, but I'm hoping at least some of you chose to do a little research on your own. Why don't you tell me what you know and I can fill in any gaps."
Canayven answers the inquiry about the inspector, "You'll probably run into the inspector when you investigate the monuments."
Sheila responds to Finnius's comment, "We are acting under the behest of the Varisian Council but some people may see bringing us in as undermining the Lord-Mayor's investigation. The Council wants to ensure that no Varisian is unjustly blamed for what is transpiring across the city. Beyond that, the council knows that it is in no one’s best interest to allow these dangerous events to continue.”
Sheila elaborates further, "I have heard of this inspector Ichonvarde before. He’s closed several cases attributed to occult phenomena over the past few months, and in so doing earned the trust of the lord-mayor. Whether or not you choose to work with Theodorus is up to your discretion and his willingness, I suppose. Regardless, it would be unwise to antagonize him.”
Canayven responds to Kala's question by simply saying "I heard someone was burned pretty badly. Not sure about the specifics. People are staying away now."
Sheila says, "There is a map of the city in our study. The monuments that have been affected are all old and popular locations, but nothing else really connects them. I couldn't see any kind of pattern from looking at the map but you are welcome to study it if you like/."
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"The map in my study is a family heirloom; I can't let you have that. But you are...Pathfinders...correct? You should have the skills to navigate a well organized city such as Magnimar without the aid of a map," Sheila offers to Eredur in reply. "I will not send you out the door completely empty handed, though."
Canayven leaves the hall wordlessly and returns shortly with a bag. "One healing potion apiece. The rest of the items you need to share."
Canayven ten adds, “Davorge. If anyone would know what’s been going in the district of Ordellia, it’d be him. He’s a mystery cultist. He’s also an expert in supernatural matters, particularly those tied to Ordellia. Look for him in the tavern next to the Rose and Rake Theatre. He eats lunch there often. If he’s not there when you arrive, you might find someone who knows where to find him.”
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DIPLOMACY (GATHER INFORMATION), KNOWLEDGE (GEOGRAPHY), OR KNOWLEDGE (LOCAL)
As its moniker implies, Magnimar is home to dozens of monuments, typically erected to honor Magnimarian deities, folk heroes, and historic events. Most monuments can grant a unique boon to those who pray before them.
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After 4 hours drinking beverages and putting coins on the right hands, Arbiscar comes back with a bunch of information "The Cenotaph is a memorial to Alcaydian Indros, one of Magnimar’s founders. Originally designed as an empty tomb, residents of Magnimar pay significant sums of money to be entombed near or within the Cenotaph, as doing so is seen as a postmortem status symbol. Countless famous personalities have been entombed within the Cenotaph. While under the official care of the Church of Pharasma, its catacombs are open to the public. Over the past few years, Sheila Heidmarch has been entombing fallen Pathfinder agents from all walks of life in the Cenotaph out of respect for their sacrifices, to the displeasure of some local elites."
The dwarf seems less chatty about the Founder's Flame "The Founder’s Flame is in Naos, home to many of Magnimar’s prosperous merchants. Erected by Antholus Kaddren shortly after the city’s founding, the monument is said to sport a constant halo of multicolored fire."
"The Mistress of Angels is in Ordellia, a district located on an island on the Yondabakari River. It was built in honor of Ordellia Whilwren, one of Magnimar’s most beloved founders, just outside of her former townhouse. " Arbiscar makes a pause before going on with more "The Mistress of Angels was erected following Ordellia’s murder several years after Magnimar’s founding. In the years since, countless locals claim to have seen Ordellia’s ghost, who has a reputation for helping the meek and persecuted throughout the Ordellia District."
"Abadar has blessed us bring up the right people at the right moment" the dwarf makes a sign of thankful prayer before his face and kisses the golden key hanging from his neck.
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what Eredur might lack at people skills and general social graces, the dwarf tries to compensate by active braincells, recalling precious informations about the last two monuments.
He doesn't seem to knowing that much about the Cenotaph, only the basics.
He gives a lesson about the architectural marvels of Magnimar, and does his best not to brag too much about his vast knowledges, as it feels natural for him to know about all things of stone (if only to insinuate a dwarf would probably have done better, in most cases)
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Kala nods gratefully and accepts a healing potion and oil of magic weapon.
She nods along as the guys wax eloquent on the histories and attributes of the monuments. Nodding, she concurs: "Yeah, that's pretty much what I remember from the last time I was here." She's relieved that she didn't have to say all that herself.
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Mun doesn't both with footwork to learn more about these monuments... he just waits for the others to return and share their knowledge. Much of it just confirms what he already knows, but the other Pathfinders definitely fill in blanks in his knowledge. He appears a little surprised when these blanks are filled, but expresses thanks for the new information regardless.
"Yes, I think finding Davorge should be our first task. Let's hope this tavern carries some good wine, at least."
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Sheila confirms some of what the Pathfinders know or were able to find out beforehand through gladhanding and gossiping with the locals but is genuinely impressed with the collective level of knowledge that the party has.
"Well, you seem up to the task at hand." Sheila slides an envelope over to the group. "This is the writ of authority. Show this to any officials or witnesses so they know that you have the authority to investigate the phenomena. Make sure you distribute the items you were given to those who need them most. Don't lose them; they are part of your payment."
The party gathers their equipment and heads to the Rose and Rake. The small tavern is tucked away against the edge of the massive theatre and has a faded sign with a red rose entwined around the shaft of a gardening rake. There is a neat little flower garden in front of the door and the building is worn with age but looks like it is being maintained with care.
Sitting near the back of the tavern is a dark-haired Varisian man wearing a flowing tunic and trousers, both with silver embroidery. When the adventurers enter the establishment, he waves them over and ntroduces himself as Davorge. "You look a group of people who have a brush or two with the spirit world. Do any of you have any good ghost stories for me?"
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A couple, actually. But first...introductions. I am Therin...and my friends... he says names his colleagues
One of my first missions for the Society was dealing with pauses as the others introduce themselves. He waves over server and orders a round of drinks, tea for himself before continuing with an infestation of ectoplasm that manifested in a vine...it was a bit of a challenge, but nothing faith, fire and a few well placed swords thrusts couldn't overcome. After that, we knew we would have our hands full..
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"What is it Kala? Aren't you fond of taverns?"
Flustered, Kala mumbles: "Uh, no, they're fine. It's just... We should stay sober when we're working."
"You look a group of people who have a brush or two with the spirit world. Do any of you have any good ghost stories for me?"
Kala gives a subdued nod and lets the guys do the talking. She listens attentively, knowing that their tales (however embellished) may provide information that helps her and Stinky survive a mission.
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Arbiscar is happy to join in the tavern while kindly grumbling with Kala "Hmmm... I never understood this sober thing you humans have. What badness can cause a couple jars of beer do?"
The dwarf takes sit besides Therin and in front of Davorge "A ghost in a vine? How did you discover the vine was actually a ghost?"
"Do you know what the Mists of Mwangi are? Because those spirits brought from the ancient jungle really caused havoc at Blackross Museum in Absalom a decade ago. Fortunately me and my team where there to sort things up and save the museum owners from another disaster..." Arbiscar takes a long shot that consumes half the jar.
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Mun joins the table, allowing Therin's introduction to suffice. "Indeed, I have encountered spirits. In the Precipice Quarter of Absalom there is a ruined school then known only as the Drownyard. Many young children died there, and their spirits lingered on indeed...." He proceeds to tell more of what happened and how they brought peace to young Junia. "Her parents were less than pleased to learn their daughter had both more will than they wanted, and a new spiritual companion that would accompany her forever, but she has grown into a talented Pathfinder Agent on her own, and the Society now actively seeks others like her; we now call them Spiritualists."
Mun sets down his glass of wine and peers intently at Davorge. "Your eyes found us immediately upon entering this room. We weren't told that you'd be expecting us. Were you expecting us?"
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"I knew that there would be some stories among you! Let me get you a round of drinks here."
Davorge orders a round of beer for the table as he chats with the group. "I hope I didn't alarm you, but my friend Canayven mentioned that there might be a group of Pathfinders coming to town on business and you are clearly Pathfinders. I assumed that the Heidmarchs sent you my way for some reason or another," Davorge says, leaning back in his chair.
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"You are a well informed lad... which is exactly what we are looking for at this time of confusion Davorge" Arbiscar takes another long shot completely running his jar dry and making the gesture for more "Ok. You have a reputation to know about the unnatural. I guess you know by now about the strange events at the Cenotaph, the Founder's Flame and the Mistress of Angels monuments. What do you know about it? And about the specialist of the supernatural Theodorus Ichonvarde researching the events?"
The dwarf burps soundly as he finishes his questions, then gazes at the cultist man.
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Kala cringes inwardly at Arbiscar's attempted diplomacy. Ugh, that awkwardness is too familiar. How do we salvage this? Mun's words help, but Kala still feels the need to smooth things over somehow. She takes a deep breath and plunges into the cold, cold waters of social discourse: "Don't mind him. He's not as bad as he sounds. Just about as socially awkward as I am, but he's got a good head on his shoulders when it counts." I assume... He is a Pathfinder, after all.
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“You say you’re looking for strange happenings here, in Ordellia?” Davorge laughs, a merry ringing with no hint of malice. “My friend, what’s strange to you is commonplace here!"
"I don't know that much about the Cenotaph or the Founder's Flame, but you see, I’m something of an aficionado of the Mistress of Angels. After all, the Mistress of Angels does happen to be our own resident ghost—the one and only Ordellia Whilwren, in fact. Her own mortal abode happens to be 'round the corner from where we sit. I’d love nothing more than to see that poor, lost soul move peacefully from our life to the next. But lately, I’ve heard strange reports about her. She appears lost, scared, desperate even. I was going to investigate the matter myself, yet now that you’re here I wonder if our dances are, in fact, a duet. What do you say? Care to investigate the matter together?”
During the conversation, he acknowledges that he has never heard of the Investigator Theodorus, "but what I have heard from those who have met him, the man supposedly has the blunt end of polearm rammed firmly up his backside. Of course, I like to reserve my judgement for people until after I've met them."