Eyes of the Ten

Game Master David_Bross

Dot

For the first time ever, each of you has received a personal missive from the Decemvirate, the shadowy, masked rulers of the Pathfinder Society. The letter asks them to band together to escort a famous magical sword, the Pale Maiden, to the newly reestablished Woodsedge Lodge, in the Revolution wracked nation of Galt. The Decemvirate wishes to entrust this legendary sword to the mistress of the lodge and the mastermind of its rescue from abandonment, Venture- Captain Eliza Petulengro.

Vos arrived early to the meeting point, excited to be getting back out into the field. His last mission had not gone as well as he had hoped, and so he was genuinely surprised that he received the letter.

His resolve to repair his tarnished record was clear, as the Half-Orc was dressed in a smartly cut Noble's Outfit of the latest Taldan style. His golden tusk-caps had been polished to a mirror sheen, and not a hair appeared to be out of place.

He hummed quietly while he waited for what he hoped was a group smaller than 3 and larger than 7 to appear, as a group within those magic numbers always seemed to lead to battle.

He hummed a sea ditty seemingly out of habit.

Felver came in wearing his unassuming non descript clothing a bit nervous to have left his long time friend and companion Tenzo outside for the time being but knowing he would be fine here. Felver nods to the Pathfinder already there with a kind smile and has a seat saying Hello fellow Pathfinder, and welcome

"Greetings and hello to you as well! How are you this fine morning?"

A small figure slips into the room from behind Felver. She is small, even for a halfling, and seems far too young to be wearing gear that looks like it has spent many years on the road. A staff hangs from her back and she checks to see that it and her scrolls and components are secure to the bandoliers that crisscross the dark tunic that covers her.

Wow am I glad to get out of that stuffy old school and back on the road. The best part is that all I have to do is just help move a dumb sword to a place in Galt! I can sneak that sword anywhere, this will be easy. Oh, that might mean that it’s boring. Hmm, maybe the people will be interesting.

The girl visually scans the people that she is escorting a sword to its new home with and flips down the hood on her cloak to get a better view. As she does the Verisian tattoos of pseudodragons and unicorns that cover her face, neck, and hands are revealed. The tattoos pop against skin that seems unnaturally pale and as she speaks, those around her that are decently perceptive might notice her teeth seem a bit too long and far too sharp.

“Umm, hello. It’s nice to meet you. My friends and also the city guard call me Doormouse. I’m fine, what’s your name mister?”

Blissfully ignorant at that moment of what would await them, Kai stands aboard the deck of their Three-masted galleon, the Archon’s Shadow staring in wonder as the ‘City at the Centre of the World’ comes into view in all its glory. The sight of the city always gave them a spark of nostalgia asit contained the home of their calling - the Grand Lodge of Pathfinders. Since their last jaunt dealing with Orcs and Devils some years ago now – Kai had taken back up the mantle of Andoran Privateer, keeping the crew of loyal ex-pirates happy with the thrill of chase and boarding actions. Kai smiled as the booming voice of their Quartermaster and the softer, demanding tones of their First Mate worked in harmony despite their differences in getting the ship docked.

Taking on their usual guise when within the city – that of a red-headed androgynous Half-elf Spice Merchant with a violet tint to their eyes hinting of ancient Azlanti heritage – Kai checks their gear is ready before hopping on to the gangplank and strolling to the dock, dreading the haggling to come with the dockmaster. Secretly, Kai worked for the Twilight Talons – a hidden sect of the Gray Corsairs and they did their best to not let many know of their connections to Andoran to avoid questions. They were surprised then, to be met not by the greedy Dockmaster but instead a messenger from the Lodge – their letter from the Decemvirate! Smiling as they remember meeting a potential member of that group they read the letter with interest. Eyes widening – they bid their crew farewell before rushing through the city towards the lodge.

Entering the room where some had gathered, the red-headed half-elf looks around as they pant slightly. They then smile and bow low – ”Greetings and Salutations all! I am Kai, Captain of the Archon’s Shadow and of course Agent as you all are.” they introduce before grabbing a glass and filling it with wine. ”So, I am to guess you also received the letter? What do you think?”

"Nice to meet you Miss Doormouse. My name is Vos Alavane. It is lovely to meet you as well."

Vos then nodded to Kai and then produced the letter as well. "Anyone have any contacts in Galt? Given the country, I'd like to know what the mob is doing nowadays and what the new rules are going to be. I'd hate for them to try and decapitate me cause I was wearing the color purple."

Kai shrugs elegantly as they take a seat across from Vos. "I don't i'm afraid - not much for my line of extra-curricular work in Galt. Though they do have a deep hatred for the rich and noble, so purple might get you a more hostile response than most."

Felver looks upon the Pathfinders gathering with another friendly smile he says I am Felver originally of Tien and not much time on the open road dealing with Galt, however, a bit of time on the ground could provide information if I must. My good steed Tenzo the Axebeak is right outside. I would have had him in the meeting as he understands common and is uncommonly intellegent, more so then most in Galt Felver says with a grin.

So it looks like the plan is to take the open road to Galt, I'll use rule of two to confirm player choices.

I’m cool with walking some of the way, but for the first leg of the journey we could use Kai’s ship. Otherwise it’s going to be a very wet walk.

An axebeak? Never seen an axebeak before. Wonder why they call it that.

“I haven’t been to Galt before, but if it involves extra curricular worksheets count me out. School is so lame.”

alright let's take the ship and then walk the remainder. What say you captain, can we secure a ride and keep the lawlessness out of things while I am aboard unless in the pursuit of stopping evil, as I worship Kalinahat Tenzo says pulling out his holy symbol of a short sword upside down in the moon.

Kai presses their hand to their breast in mock offence to Felver's comment. They then chuckle softly "I can assure there is no lawlessness amongst my crew - I keep a tight ship and my Quartermaster has a rod of Iron for those that step out of line!" they finish with a wink.

With a shrug they nod "You are all welcome aboard, should cut down the trek indeed - jut make sure you've purchased all you need before we set off - unlike Capt. Benarry I don't have a fully stocked horde for us to buy from!"

I'm good with sailing there - doesn't seem like we have any teleportation capacity.

Despite the worries of the Decemvirate, your voyage across the Inner Sea and up the Sellen River to the Galtan town of Woodsedge sees few dangers, and you reach your destination without ever having to draw your weapons. The whole nation of Galt remains in the thrall of a bloody revolution, and while signs of desperation, poverty, and even violence abound, none of it has prevented you from your mission. The Pale Maiden remains safe, and you have successfully completed your first direct task for the secretive inner circle of the Pathfinder Society.

Sooner than you had expected, you find yourselves standing on the outer stair of the Woodsedge Lodge. Situated on immense grounds just outside the town proper, the luxurious manor house is marred by cracked plaster, missing windows, and rotting shingles, but a well-groomed topiary hints at a building coming back from a near-death encounter with Revolution and abandonment.

See updated map, place yourself in L1 on slide 2, and please fill in the information in slide 3.

"...and that's the last time I will ever drink anything that Master Valsin makes. He's a great leader, but not so much of a coffeemaker."

"Ahh, looks like we're here. Has anyone else been weirded out by how well this trip has gone? I was expecting at least one Hydra attack."

Are there only 3 of us? That's going to be tough. If that's the case we may need to open up recruitment again.

GODS this job is so boring. At least the people are interesting. That ship captain is cool and fancy man is kinda funny. And his bird friend...someday I will ride you.

"A hydra would have been interesting, but I was expecting a mob. Is this where the sword is supposed to go? It looks like a garbage dump."

Tenzo gallops up to he location into a cantor and then finally stops baking his head a bit glad to be off the ship and Felver pets Tenzo's head saying there there boy well done and good ride to stretch the legs eh? and Felver looks around and says most of Galt has seen better days Mouse

Guess I went insane for a bit and couldn’t count to 4. Whoops!

“Better days? I guess you’re right. Varisia has a lot to deal with too. Cyclops, vampires, giants, werewolves, demons, demon werewolves, and dragon or two. Whatever enemy Galt has, it must be horrible to make its people turn against each other like this.”

@Kai, please fill in sheet #3 of the slides and place yourself in slide 2. @Tenzo Please make an alias for Felver as well (and include him on the slides, incase we get dismounted), also add a row for the companion information to slide 3.

The huge doors of the Woodsedge Lodge open with a slow creak. A tall, bulky figure takes form in the gloom within, emerging into the sunlight with a gap-toothed smile and a bushy blond beard. It’s your old venture-captain from Absalom, Adril Hestram!

The huge man chuckles with a belly laugh at the sight of you. “I was wondering who they would send! The Ten choose wisely, of course! You did receive your orders to come here from the Decemvirate themselves, didn’t you? The servants are clucking that you bear the Pale Maiden. Is it true? May I wield the blade?”

"Well, I did specifically avoid the 'here be dragons' mark on the ol' sailor's chart - just for you!" Kai remarks with a short laugh as they walk the streets, taking the time to ensure their clothing looks worn and old with ta tip of the circlet atop their brow. It wouldn't do to stand out so much here - and if the rabble went for one of the others first, so be it. Arriving at the supposed sight of the lodge - Kai can't help but agree with Doormouse's first assumption - the place was a wreck, and they were to leave a priceless relic here?

Strolling up the stairs, they pause as the familiar face of ol' Hestram pokes their head out of the door. They greet the captain with a bow. "Greetings Master Hestram, I hope you had a Grand trip from the lodge. Servants talk eh? you know how they love idle gossip - we are just here to meet the new Captain Eliza - show our faces and see what help she needs around the... 'lodge'"

Something was off here, why send them when they had sent Hestram ahead? Perhaps this was a test, but Kai was not going to be caught wanting."[/b]

Bluff: 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (3) + 23 = 26

"Galt's main problem is it's people. Like anything, it started out as a good idea that ended in the same tyranny that they opposed."

As Adril appeared, Vos said "Master Hestram, it is good to see you! How are things in the Scrolls? I haven't been back to Absalom in a while and would like to hear all the gossip."

Felver smiles to Hestram and says we have explicit instructions to give the blade to Venture Captain Eliza Sir. You understand Felver smile again.

Adril gives his signature hearty chuckle You're daft Vos, I just gave you the damned blade in Absolom! He turns to Felver, "Follow the orders to the letter I suppose, I'm sure she is somewhere here. I only just arrived myself." Adril says as he admires the blade.

Who is holding it?

"They won’t say why we’ve all been called here,” Adril says, “but it’s obvious the Pale Maiden is just a cover story. I’ve been… studying up on the Ten. I think I’m about to be promoted into their ranks. It was only a matter of time. My guess is that you’re here to represent my efforts as a venture-captain. I’ve no doubt you’ll make a very convincing argument for my promotion."

“Things will change between us if this happens. You’ve always been honest, dependable agents for me, so I’m telling you while I still can. After it happens, we will all be sworn to utter secrecy, for the identities of the Ten are the most treasured secrets of the Pathfinder Society. For now, though, I want you to know that I trust you implicitly, and I hope that you trust me. Once I have been made one of the Ten, even if we can no longer discuss it openly, I want you to know that I will always do what is right by you.”

With that he turns into the lodge and suggests Well, lets adjourn into the lodge and find her! .

Good question. Maybe Kai? We traveled on their ship and they are a magus. That makes as much sense as anything.

Honest? Dependable? Me!? Maybe he has me confused with someone else. But what if he’s serious? Well either way it’s best to play along for now. Getting cozy with a member of the ten could be good. Hmm, if he’s going to be made one of the ten, I wonder who died. I bet it was 8. No! It must have been 5.

Doormouse ties up her mule and heads inside, wrinkling her nose as she steps through the door.

Kai is happy to carry it - though will likely use their hat of disguise to change the blade on their belt to look plainer and less obvious

Still not sure whether this truly is Hestram, Kai cautiously moves up into the building, keeping their hand on the hilts of the paired longswords at their belt - one 'Maiden's Kiss' their blade made for them by Venture Captain Smine and the other the 'Pale Maiden' - though under an illusion of disguise to look plainer, with bronze hilts and notched brown leather scabbards - better to match their overall look as a scruffy mercenary whilst in Galt.

"If that is true then congratulations Captain - for a I hate to think what it will mean if it is for another reason the Ten call us. Though why here? Surely this could have all been done in a safer location?" they then think about the several times the Grand Lodge had been infiltrated, besieged or stolen from over the years. "Nevermind - I suppose nowhere is truly safe."

"That you gave us the blade in Abasalom is the exact reason why I asked you for events: it is odd that you turned up here ahead of us. I just wanted to make sure that you're you."

Fair enough. Well, I told you my suspicions. I know you're some of my best field agents, just be prepared to deliever some good speaches today!
@Tenzo thanks for filling in the information. Do you have a figure for Felver you could put on the map? Also, how does Tenzo understand common? Going up to intelligence 3 apparently doesn't change too much in PFS.

Adril Hestram leads you inside the Woodsedge Lodge. The filigreed front doors open into a spacious great room with an enormous fireplace against the opposite wall. Elegant upholstered chairs and couches scattered about the chamber present an inviting, luxurious atmosphere, as if the whole place had been designed for fashionable lounging. A sweeping stair beside the fireplace leads to the balconies of the mansion’s second floor, which look down upon the room as if it were a stage. A scuffed and oddly stained red carpet runs down the center of the stair, showing that work yet remains to restore the Woodsedge Lodge to its former glory. Some elements, like the threadbare stuffed owlbear in one corner, hint more at the past than the future, but things are coming along.
Adril leads on to the west, through a fine wooden door and into a woodpaneled corridor rich with the smell of fresh onions and simmering meat stew. The passage continues several feet to the north, with doors leading to chambers beyond. Adril bounds through the southernmost doors across the hall, leading you into a richly appointed meeting room where two figures are seated at a huge oak table near several empty chairs obviously intended for you. Adril points to a male human garbed in crude leathers wearing a necklace of bird skulls.
“This here is Osprey,” he says. “Honorable fellow, a friend to all and a Society man, tall and true. His keen eyes see much among the Pathfinders that others miss, and his counsel is unparalleled in our order.”
Adril turns to the gorgeous red-haired woman sitting at the head of the table, her pale face a marble bust of confidence and control. “And this,” he says, his cheeks taking on a touch of red and his mouth curving into a lecherous grin, “is Venture-Captain Eliza Petulengro, the Lady of the Lodge.”

Vos bows to each of the people as Adril introduces them.

“Hello Osprey. A pleasure to see you again Ms Petulengro. This place is nice, on the inside at least. We have with us a gift to celebrate the reopening of the Woodsedge lodge. I am glad that...”

Doormouse’s stomach growls and interrupts her.

“Oh, my deepest apologies. Please accept the Pale Maiden. May it honor your halls.

I haven’t had a real meal in weeks, I didn’t think that being around people would affect me like this. One day at a time.

Following the Venture Captain into the room, they nod at the assembled guests, their suspicions still raised a little - this wouldn't be the first time magic had been used in an attempt to fool them - and this would be a bad time to fail a test. It seemed strange for Adril to give them the blade and then be here before them, unless they teleported - why not off them the same deal? They try to read the body language of the gathered Captains - beyond Adril's poorly contained lust.

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (18) + 11 = 29

If they believe no falsehoods they will give Eliza a short bow. "Greetings Cap'n, I hope you fair well in these troubled times." they reach at their belt and unhook one of the sheathed swords, the magic of their hat melting away to reveal the Pale Maiden in its glory. "This is yours I believe?" They hold it out for the captain to take.

Sense Motive as it's been asked about multiple times: 1d20 + 24 ⇒ (18) + 24 = 42

This time Tenzo comes with into the lodge as they are still guarding the Pale Maiden and follows along with Felver at the rear of the group.

They're probably not going to allow your axebeak into the lodge. Just sayin'

An axebeak inside? Probably not but who knows. One of the venture captains has a wolf inside his lodge and there is that time dragon that shows up occasionally. What’s he going to do? Wreck the place?

Doormouse’s face lights up as the Axebeak walks into the Lodge.

“Hi Tenzo! Who’s a good boy? You are!

Silly hunters, can’t stand being away from their friends. I get it. I already like Tenzo better than my classmates.

Tenzo nudges and nuzzles Doormouse as she praises him and gives her a knowing wink and a nod and Felver says In the saddle bag to your left are some apples which he likes as a snack. Tenzo is an excellent judge if character and has made many friends with fellow Pathfinders over the years

Eliza recieves the blade, “You have my most sincere thanks for safely delivering the Pale Maiden to me,” Eliza says with a proud smile. “One of my servants will bring it to the lodge’s armory, where it will be kept safe to honor the responsibility granted to me by the Decemvirate.”
As she speaks, several human servants wearing elaborate dresses and fashionable suits bustle in and out of the kitchen through the north doors, delivering delicate flutes of bubbling wine, plates of fresh fruits, and platters of manicured fingerfoods. Each of the servants wears a featureless white porcelain mask, obscuring his or her face completely. Each servant also wears a thin red ribbon around the neck. Eliza catches one of you looking at the ribbon, and her face takes on a serious cast. “The ribbons represent the guillotine. The Final Blades that sing the song of Revolution and cut the heads from patriots. Each of my servants has lost a beloved one to the Mob. They wear the masks for their own protection. They are safe here in the Lodge. I know their identities, but it is critical that the rabble and the Mob do not identify them as servants of the Society. We are still not fully trusted here, after all, and although the people will not strike out against me, they may very well snatch one of my servants on their return home from a day’s work. I’m sure you understand.
My homeland of Galt has lost much in this endless Revolution, and even the streets are dangerous. You are lucky to have arrived here safely, but I am sure you could have handled yourselves had you run into trouble.
“Of course,” Eliza says, “I’m sure you’ve figured out by now that delivering the Pale Maiden was merely a pretext to get you to the Woodsedge Lodge. You are here for something far more important than a courier mission. For tonight, the Lodge will be host to a Talespinning, one of the most important ceremonies known to the Pathfinder Society. And the guest of honor is Adril Hestram! Osprey will explain the details when we reconvene in the great room about an hour. Until then, enjoy the refreshments and my servants can show you to your rooms should you wish to adjourn there before the ceremony.”

if there is a room on the main floor I would like this, otherwise Tenzo and I will stay in the stables and wait for the talespinning in the area enjoying refreshments thank you

All 3 NPCs leave the room after grabbing some food. Not taking them off map because the next scence will have all 3 :)

The servant replies, Of course you're welcome to stay with Tenzo in the stables. We did make up a room for you upstairs, but Tenzo wouldn't quite fit there. You may wish to grab your refreshments here, unless you'd like to share in Tenzo's fresh venison.

I will take some cooked refreshment, thanks and Felver loads up a plate and then he and Tenzo will go and hang out at the stables so Tenzo can enjoy the fresh venison

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (10) + 11 = 21

Noting a look between the guests, Kai slowly takes a seat as the Venture Captains vacate the room. Pouring themselves a glass of wine and taking a few pieces of fruits and sweetmeats upon a plate the Privateer leans back against their chair and places their feet upon the table, eating and drinking sparingly after a long trip. "Well, that was more suspicious than a Smiling Priest of the living God..." he remarks to the Pathfinder agents as they take a seat or leave to be with their bird. "That look between Osprey and Eliza? They're either up to something or they're holding something back. What do you make of it friends?"

Doormouse leans forward in her chair and shrugs. Her feet idly kick under her seat. A few strands of hair swing in front of her face and she tries to blow them out of the way before casting Prestidigitation out of annoyance. She sighs again before answering.

"I don't know. I mean, I think its weird. But then I always think things are weird. That look with Osprey and Eliza was weird. Hestram's look at Eliza was weird. Those people in masks? Definitely weird. Me spending a night with a bunch of old people getting together in a rundown building to spin stories? Weird, but it sounds fun. I do love stories. I don't know, but I want to see where this goes."

Vos pours himself a brandy then goes upstairs to set down his pack. Adventuring was great, but all of the carrying things around left much to be desired.

At Kai's comment, Vos says "Of course they're holding things back. Do the math; they're clearly expecting a fight. They have 3-7 competent agents here, all armed and armored, under the pretense of a talespinning. We'll definitely be attacked before the night is out; it'll either be something to do with the blade or something to do with the revolution."

Before the hour is up Felver and Tenzo will return from their siesta brushed and polished up and present themselves so as to be brought to the great hall for the Talespinning.

They have 3-7 competent agents here, all armed and armored, under the pretense of a talespinning.

Actually you're the only ones armed or armorered (which makes sense, you just arrived from the open road), and there are quite a few servants and agents in the lodge besides yourself. Adril, Eliza, and Osprey, all formidable venture captains or seekers are all not.

Approximately one hour after being shown to your rooms, you are directed to the great hall. The servants do protest when Tenzo starts to leave the stables for the great hall, but make no attempt to stop him.

As you arrive a squad of masked servants pass out long flutes of wine, selected Galtan cheese, thin cut venison, and poached axebeak eggs (which smell slightly of sulfur but taste delightful).

Feel free to take any actions you'd like during that hour.

Light conversations are going on between Adril, Eliza, and Osprey in the great room as each of you arrive. They seem to be waiting for everyone to assemble.

Doormouse arrives at dinner cleaned up and refreshed wearing a lavender and pink evening dress. She waves away a glass of wine but does take a few pieces of delicious deer meat.

Aww, they cooked it. Why? Why do old people throw such bad parties? Where are the games? Where’s the cake? It’s just funny smelling juice and small talk. Ugh.

Kai nods to Vos "Hmm, it is likely you are correct friend - though their lack of arms and armour either means they think they are safe - a foolish notion when even the Grand Lodge has been attacked on several occasions - or they are so confident they care not - a folly of a greater sort." With a short time before the party, the Elf excuses themselves and goes to their room to drop off some of their more bulky items and to freshen up before the shindig to come.

Wearing fresh clothing that doesn't smell of sea salt and sweat, with their armour covered by illusion. To all intents and purposes they look all the part of a brash Sea Captain - black woolen breeches tucked into knee high Leather boots, frilly white shirt with black waistcoat and a Crimson Jacket - topped off with a Crimson Tricorn bearing the pennant of their vessel embroidered upon it.

Kai smiles in greeting to their friends as they enter the hall, re-adjusting the exquisite Adamantine Scimitar at their hip upon a broad Dragon-hide belt in it's blood-red leather scabbard. Calling upon Besmara for luck they take some of the offered wine and exotic cheeses, a little disturbed by the masked servants. Stepping up to Doormouse, they bow, doffing their hat in a graceful move.

"Good Evening my dear! You look simply divine - I trust we haven't missed much?"

Cast Heroism - lasts 100mins

Actually you're the only ones armed or armorered (which makes sense, you just arrived from the open road), and there are quite a few servants and agents in the lodge besides yourself. Adril, Eliza, and Osprey, all formidable venture captains or seekers are all not.

That was his point. The universe never gets 3-7 pathfinder agents in the same area without something (aka a module) happening.

Coming back don to dinner, Vos is wearing a traditional Ulfen nobleman's gear, minus the great fur cloak. It's clear that he has chosen his attire with the guest of honor in mind.

Vos takes his offered seat and partakes of the snacks, but after his first drink proscribes any alcohol; instead, he sticks to water. He will then make small talk with whoever he is seated next to.

Hearing someone else talk to her, Doormouse snaps out of her bored torpor. She excitedly hops down from her chair and scoots over to return Kai’s bow. As she drops her foot gets caught in her dress and she trips, forcing her to catch herself on the table. Ignoring the fall she does her best to return the gesture, an odd series of motions that look like she saw someone politely curtsy at one point in her life but she didn’t bother to remember it.

“Wow Kai, you look great! Like Captain Freewyn in my adventure book but taller! Umm did you miss anything? Well, Osprey was telling me about the hibernation cycles of the local squirrel species and what you can learn from all the kinds of bird droppings.”

She smiles uneasily and then whispers “Please help me”

After all of you assemble, Osprey ascends the central stairs and addresses you all. Please place all of your tokens somewhere in L2. Osprey moved up to the balcony (L3) for speaking [yellow box is where Osprey delieved his instructions from], and its clear he expects one of you to go up there next and give a speech.

“Fellow agents of the Pathfinder Society,” says Osprey from the balcony overlooking the Great Room. “I deliver a message from the Decemvirate. Long have the Ten observed the exploits of Venture-Captain Adril Hestram. Time and again he has served the Society well, from his own adventures in the Mwangi Expanse to the many activities conducted by agents under his guidance.” Osprey’s scratchy voice pauses for a moment and he leers out at you. His high brow casts his dark eyes in shadow, giving him an ominous visage.

He gestures to you and your companions. “That is where you come in. For tonight we celebrate the Talespinning Ceremony, and our ritual begins with each of you standing where I stand and regaling us with the story of your greatest victory as a field agent of the Pathfinder Society. We stand tonight to examine the achievements of Venture-Captain Adril Hestram, and your victories speak to his capabilities as a leader and his judgment in selecting the agents for his important missions for the Society. When we have heard from each of you, it will be Adril’s turn. After that, we shall know the way of things, and the way of the future for Adril Hestram, and perhaps also for all of you."

“Now,” he says, his mouth forming a crooked smile. “Who would like to go first?”

After speaking, he descends and awaits the next pathfinder.