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You have each received the following Invitation
Pathfinders,
I do hope you’ll join us at the Grand Lodge for the celebration to congratulate the most recent group of initiates—yourselves included! A good time is certain to be had by all, but it’s more than just a party. Gatherings like this are an excellent opportunity to rub elbows with the Society’s leadership and get to know them. That means you’ll always be quick to know about the best opportunities as soon as they arise. I hope you’ll take advantage of the event to put your best foot forward.I’m looking forward to seeing you there!
—Janira Gavix, Pathfinder Society Head Initiate
So with what you have you make your way to the Grand Lodge and meet other novice pathfinders waiting to get in to the main hall.
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The door quietly opens, and a middle-aged human man of average height steps in quietly. He stands at the doorway, taking a few moments to observe the scene calmly before he enters. Although rather well-built, he looks rather ... weathered. As he draws nearer, you notice faint scars, as if he's seen some repeated fighting in his youth. He carries a gentle smile, although a closer look reveals a faint haunted look in his eyes.
And strangely, a faint breeze seems to have accompanied him into the room, tossing his cloak occasionally. Even though there is no draft in the room. Under his cloak, Zelphari wears a well-worn breastplate. Over his back hangs a rather unusual weapon, with a hammer on one end and a pick on the other . The rest of his weaponry are more mundane though - his fists girded in steel gauntlets while a crossbow and daggers hangs by his belt. The only other thing of note is a pendant carved into the shape of Sarenrae's angel hanging round his neck.
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As usual, Haechi is in the Grand Lodge's library with his snout deep into a book. Today, it is a slightly foxed copy of Lorrimor's Multos usus per draco cauda squamis when an initiate runs up, hands the kobold a folded piece of paper, and disappears just as quickly.
A little irritated by the interruption, he makes a note of what page he was on and closes the tome. After replacing it on the shelf he carefully unfolds the paper and reads over the contents. His irritation transforms into joy as he reads. Apparently to himself, he says:
"Ah, a celebration I see. What fun! I love a good party. I wonder if anyone interesting will be there?"
He goes back to his quarters and makes himself presentable before heading over to the party. He arrives to find a group of new initiates clustered together in one corner and a smattering of others standing about waiting for the festivities to begin. "Hmmm. It appears that I am a little early. Oh well, nothing for it, let's make the best of it then," he thinks to himself.
He picks out the nearest person he doesn't recognize and sidles up to him. He taps the well-built but rather weathered middle-aged man on the arm, and looking up at him, says, "Hello there. I don't believe we've met before. Allow me to introduce myself. I am Haechi, wizard extraordinaire and scholar of the draconic arts. Pleased to make your acquaintance."
What Zelphari sees when he turns to face Haechi is a slightly taller than normal kobold in a long dark hooded cloak tied at the neck. Rather than the usual mottled coloration of his kind, Haechi's scales are almost entirely the same unvarying color: A bright bronze. Hanging by her claws from one of the kobold's shoulders is a small, but similarly colored draconic-like creature with wings and a bored look.
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Haetae is happily snoozing on a nearby shelf when Haechi receives the invitation. When her master wakes her and informs her of the upcoming party, the familiar rolls her small eyes, and in a bored flat voice, replies:
"Woo hoo. What fun. I can't wait."
Her master enjoyed such events immensely, but they always struck her as rather tedious. The only saving grace of these get-togethers was the food. If Haechi got sufficiently distracted, she could slip away and grab a bite of something without him noticing. Her master was usually a tyrant when it came to what she ate.
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A tall, attractive half-orc woman dressed simply in purple robes up to the door to the main hall. She stops and carefully examines each person in the room with a piercing gaze before smiling and introducing herself.
"Greetings! I'm Zaza the Measure. I know that's an unusual surname but that's what happens when a name gets translated through four different languages. Since I'm starting a new life with the Pathfinder society it seemed appropriate to have a new name as well."
She looks around the room.
"You don't suppose they'll have any sake here? It's a tien wine that I had for the first time recently. It's pretty good as long as you don't have to use their ridiculously small mugs."
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A solidly built dwarf stands near the drinks table, invitation tucked into his pack and watches the goings on of the people on the room. He idly fingers the bottom layer of links of his chainmail shirt, seemingly uncomfortable in it despite the obvious recent use on it. Along his belt hang a small assortment of weapons, an axe that, despite how well maintained it is, has probably seen more years of use that most of the humans in the room, a trident that is younger than the axe but couldn't be classified as new and finally a warhammer that is definitely the newest at probably only twenty years of use. On the left hangs the dwarf's clan dagger.
Giving the room another once over and finishing off his stein with a swig, Ionic wipes the little bit off foam left on his deep brown mustache and beard with enough grey and blonde hairs mixed in to make it look speckled with salt. He picks a group that looks interesting, a human with his own personal breeze, a bronze kobold, and a half-orc woman talking loudly about something called 'sake'.
He gives everyone an appraising look for a moment, taking in weapons, armor, or lack thereof, before extending a stubby rough hand to Zelphari, Zara and then Haechi. The weathered skin around his face crinckles as he breaks into a broad grin that's barely noticeable under his facial hair. "Ionic Saltbeard. Pleasare ta meetcha. S'what's 'measare' origina'y? Afore translashons? As Fer de 'sa key,' haven't seen any. But if it's drink den I'd try some!"
He then gestures to the odd weapon on Zelphari's back, "An' what's dat. Ain't seen one 'fore. Some newfangled weapon?"
He then turns to the one person in the group so far shorter than himself. "Ya pro'lly get dis of'en, but ain't met a lizird wizird yet. Haechi, eh? Dat mean someding in Draconic? Soooo, any spells ya like particular like?"
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It seems as though the entire Grand Lodge has the air of a celebration. The great gates are flung wide, and the phoenix trees lining the entryway are in full flame. The halls of the main tower of Skyreach, normally somber and reserved, echo with the sound of voices and music. The great ballroom is decked for a celebration, with colorful banners and bunting along the walls, tables replete with food and drink, and a jovial cacophony of conversation rising from Pathfinders of all ancestries, nations, and backgrounds.
After a quick scan of the room, it’s obvious that many of the attendees have gathered in small groups here and there. A half-orc woman in an iconic ship captain’s hat stands near the punch bowl, handing cups to anyone who passes within reach, and a dark-skinned half-elf leads a small group of new agents around the room, introducing them to other attendees. Several senior agents stand in quiet conferral with a dark-haired Taldan man with a distinctive chin strap beard, while a scholarly dwarf tells a rousing tale to a growing audience.
A familiar blond halfling woman bounces over, bubbling with excitement. Janira Gavix , Head Initiate of the Pathfinder Society, grins, “Oh, I’m so glad you made it! After all, the celebration is for you. Have you gotten drinks? Snacks? Be sure to spend some time getting to know everyone—it’s best to be on good terms with the movers and shakers in the Society, that’s how you learn about the latest opportunities. I’ll be here if you need me to help you with anyone’s names or to make an introduction. Just let me know how I can help!” Janira gestures everyone forward into the room, beaming all the while.
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There seem to be four main individuals gathering attention each with a few notable other esteemed pathfinders around them:
Leader of the Horizon Hunter Faction
Former captain of the Grinning Pixie and faction leader most likely to be mistaken for a pirate, Calisro Benarry leads the Horizon Hunters, but she doesn’t stand on ceremony. Her leadership often boils down to pointing out blank spots on the map to her agents. Although the half-orc can get serious in a crisis, this certainly isn’t that time.
She is with Zarta Dralneen Former Leader of the Dark Archieves Faction
A Chelaxian expatriate once known for hedonism, Zarta Dralneen was betrayed by her country, receiving official condemnation based on false charges. Since then, she has set her old lifestyle aside to focus on other priorities. She has long helped the Society root out dangerous artifacts and uncataloged perils within its vaults.
Zarta hopes to reinforce the value of organizing, preserving, and safeguarding information.
Leader of the Envoys Alliance Faction
Friendly but driven, Fola Barun has dedicated herself to growing and nurturing the Pathfinder Society, and she’s been a strong supporter of the recent drive to bring in new members.
She is with Sorrina Westyr Master of Spells
Sorrina is responsible for teaching initiates about how to wield, identify, and evade magical threats. She is an oread woman with slate-gray skin and silvery-white hair. While an unparalleled expert in her field, Sorrina also knows firsthand the dangers of exploration and works to equip agents properly against the perils they may face.
Sorrina is intrigued by other agents with religious or planar knowledge, as well as those who keep thorough records.
Leader of the Vigilant Seal Faction
Eando has a long history with the Pathfinder Society, and only recently has he settled into his position as leader of the Vigilant Seal faction. He’s the least friendly of the faction leaders, but he puts a great deal of faith in the rank-and-file agents.
He is with Ambrus Valsin Steward of the Grand Lodge
Ambrus is a tall, tan man with meticulously groomed hair and mutton chops. He runs the daily operations of the Grand Lodge with a keen eye for details while also overseeing Pathfinders’ missions in Absalom.
Ambrus appreciates agents who work hard and stay out of trouble
Leader of the Grand Archive Faction
As leader of the Grand Archive, Gorm is impressed by knowledge in all its forms, but he holds a special fondness for tales and jokes that bring knowledge to life. Conversations with Gorm often leave the impression of a lively, fun uncle rather than a stuffy sage
He is with Urwal Leader of the Verdant Wheel Faction
The mysterious lizardfolk Urwal has made himself a fixture of life at the Grand Lodge. He is best known for his unrequested yet benign intrusions, whether it be breaking into Kreighton Shane’s office to drop off stacks of Pathfinder Chronicles riddled with corrections and commentary, rearranging disordered collections, or drawing insightful astrological maps on the ground outside of the Lodge.
Urwal believes that each living being has its own way of relating to the natural world. In his view these connections are part of a glorious tapestry worthy of study rather than interference, so long as they don’t lead to corruptions like undeath
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A gruff voice speaks from out of a mass of red beard and silver grey wolf furs. The red beard carefully plaited is singed at its ends, the result of being too close to the forge. The furs, a remnant of a previous mission, hang over his broad shoulders, covering his armour only seen as vaguely a glint of polished silvered metal and on his arm a shield etched with the image of a hammer. As the dwarf enters he reaches down and places a large ancient looking battleaxe leaning against the wall, reaching into a pocket with his free hand he retrieves a metal comb and starts to brush out his read hair. He grumbles loudly under his breath, "Gotta remember, plaits when travelling, keep everything in place, nice and tidy." Yet there is no joy or feeling, it is a ritualistic mechanical phrase that once held some meaning.
His blue eyes have lost their sheen and a dried tear is left near his eye, before it disappears into his red facial hair. He looks a little sad, as though returning to Absalom bought back sad reminders of his past. He bows his head, mumbling "Hopper, you should be here with us now. In memory, Torag's forge shall consume you."
He looks up, to realise that some of his companions have already eneted the hall. His demeanor softens and a smile blooms over his face, as he recognises a small familiar kobold. "Haechi friend, over here! It's Granitt. Above ground again and dry, no swimming for me here. How are you old friend and have you bought your little companion Haetae. Oh it's good to see you!" he says all this in a most un-dwarf like manner, nothing like his normal grouchiness and steadfastness, almost with enthusiasm and joy. However before Haechi can answer he gains control of his emotion and looks at the others gathered there.
Another dwarf, good someone to trust along with Haechi. The rest? We'll see. Human, never can tell with them, Half-Orc another with strength perhaps. He introduces himself, "Granitt, follower of Torag and his forge. My axe and my strength in Torag at your service."
Once the pleasantries are over, after the first ale has sunk into his stomach, he notices some of the dignitaries that Janira Gavix has pointed out. He claps Ionic Saltbeard on the back, "See there, Eando Kline leader of the Vigilant Seal, what say you. Shall we meet the defender of the Society, a defence from the evils of the world and their evil creations? A human any dwarf can look up ta."
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Haechi happily introduces himself and shakes hands effusively with Zaza and Ionic as they come up to him and Zelphari, saying, "So very pleased to meet you." He then looks about the rapidly filling hall, "My, my, what a wonderful gathering; so many new faces."
He's about to enter into a long-winded discussion with Ionic about the etymology and linguistic sources of his name, followed up with what would have been an excruciatingly detailed lecture on spell selection criteria, casting methods, the varying spell casting philosophies of the different schools of magic, etc., but instead, he catches sight of Granitt in the crowd, and his attention is snatched away.
Haechi waves to Granitt to catch his eye even though it is clear that the dwarf had already spotted him. "Granitt! How great it is to see you again my friend. For a moment there earlier, I almost mistook Ionic here for you. Oh, I do like the new hair style by the way; very trendy indeed." He rubs his own hairless pate and adds, "Too bad us kobolds don't have any hair of our own to style, eh?" Then a thought strikes him, and excitedly he says, "Still, that needn't be a impediment to a hirsute lifestyle. Why, I bet one of the local perruquiers could whip me up a wig in no time."
"See there, Eando Kline leader of the Vigilant Seal, what say you. Shall we meet the defender of the Society, a defence from the evils of the world and their evil creations? A human any dwarf can look up ta."
Haechi responds, "How right you are, Granitt. I remember how we both met Eando after our recent rather, um... malodorous foray into the sewers. He did cut a rather impressive figure, I must admit. Let's go say hello."
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Granitt smiles and chuckles at Haechi's words, "Ya still using them long words then. What he means Ionic, is it ended up stinking like the worst kind of rot you can imagine. Nothing that a sturdy stomach can't handle, eh Haechi!" The dwarf rubs his stomach and imitates the action of vomiting on the floor, as he laughs at the recollection.
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Eando is in a discussion with Ambrus about practical means of dealing the hazards of what Pathfinders discover in their journeys. Ambrus turns to Granitt and Haechi as they approach. "You are both not afraid of getting your hands sullied with physical labor are you? Either with skilled crafting or even just putting in a hard day of work"
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Granitt smiles and chuckles at Haechi's words, "Ya still using them long words then. What he means Ionic, is it ended up stinking like the worst kind of rot you can imagine. Nothing that a sturdy stomach can't handle, eh Haechi!" The dwarf rubs his stomach and imitates the action of vomiting on the floor, as he laughs at the recollection.
Haechi is a little confused, "I'm not entirely certain what you're referring to by long words, Granitt. I invariably employ the..." but the dwarf had already segued to describing the truly horrendous stench they came across in the sewers.
Joining Granitt in his laughter, he adds, "Ha, ha. Yes indeed. Truly revolting. And things didn't exactly improve after we blew up that crocodile. I'm still finding bits of that creature trapped under my scales to this day."
Eando is in a discussion with Ambrus about practical means of dealing the hazards of what Pathfinders discover in their journeys. Ambrus turns to Granitt and Haechi as they approach. "You are both not afraid of getting your hands sullied with physical labor are you? Either with skilled crafting or even just putting in a hard day of work"
Haechi is taken a little aback by the abrupt way in which Ambrus Valsin addressed them. "Apparently not someone given to small talk," he thinks to himself. "Is he looking for someone to send on a mission? It sure sounds like it. Maybe I can talk him into picking us for the job. Nothing ventured, nothing gained I always say."
The kobold quickly recovers and patting Granitt on the back, replies, "Ah, Venture-Captain, no doubt you've heard of our recent great exploits in the sewers of the Puddles. If you're looking for people willing to get their hands dirty, then it appears that we've come to the right place." Haechi's grin is somewhat fixed at this point as he thinks, "Oh great Apsu. Please not the sewers again. Anything but that."
Haechi continues, "And you won't find a better pair of tinkerers than us. Why, my friend here designed and built an amazing device that allows him to breathe while under the water without the aid of magic. It is quite a thing of beauty; I'm surprised he hasn't already patented it and made a mint. I've been told that I'm quite the inventor myself, when I put my mind to it, though my skills tend to lie more in the field of magic. If you're looking for hard workers though, then we're your men."
Haechi puffs out his chest and puts his arms akimbo to make himself look more imposing. He's certain that if the Venture-Captain needed some highly trained individuals for a secret and sensitive Society mission, that he'd just convinced him to pick them for the job.
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Ionic's smile droops as he realizes why he sometimes avoids the wizard types and mentally barricades and braces for a barrage of the eldritch, arcane, and inane. He gives a very small sigh of relief to see that Haechi gets distracted by someone else instead.
Ionic gives the other dwarf a firm handshake and a silent state of thanks, before nodding approvingly at the axe. "Good ta work witha dwarf 'gain. Been a mission'er three."
Ionic listens to Haechi and Granitt go back and forth. He gives a good guffaw at the interpretation of the wizard's words and comments "Ain't first time met a wizard. Ought hear what racket dey get up to in a pirate brig. Had ta look up so many words. Make sure dey were'er weren't insultin' me. Dough 'per-up-queer' is new."
He finally looks over at Elado Kline, "Ain't met him afore. Cuts a nice figure. But, if ya ask me, person any dwarf has ta look up ta. He, what, 6 feet? Ionic gives an ever so slight eyebrow raise to see if his joke caught on, before following the other two up to Elado and Ambrus.
Ionic steps up from behind the two and clears his throat. "Spent o'er hundred years onna pirate ship. Dey'd've tossed me off day two, if I was. Ya need something done?"
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Haetae bides her time, waiting for the right opportunity. When her master is in full swing talking to the important looking gentleman, she makes her move. Carefully, she slides off his shoulder and using her wings, breaks her fall to the ground. She then makes a beeline for the nearest table of food.
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"Ionic Saltbeard. Pleasare ta meetcha. S'what's 'measare' origina'y? Afore translashons? As Fer de 'sa key,' haven't seen any. But if it's drink den I'd try some!"
"Well in the original Shoanti it's 'Törvényeek Behoozója'. Only once it travels from Shoanti to Orc to Goblin to Taldane does it somehow become 'the Measure.'"
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Zelphari joins the group gathering around Eando Kline unobstrusively. The man, is after all, his Faction Leader after all. More importantly, despite the years since his ... transformation, both him and Ambrus reminds him of the men of the mercenary company that was his life. Even that life is now behind him, it still tugs at his heart occasionally, like now.
He listens to Haechi, barely deciphering his long convoluted sentences, getting lost along the way, as well to Ionic and his pirating past.
"If there are deeds that need to be done, count me in as well." He pauses to show his calloused hands, and continues with a tinge of sorrow in his voice, "These hands have seen much physical labour. And much bloodshed."
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Replying to Ambrus, Granitt shows with a certain amount of pride a repair he made to his shield, "The father of the forge gives me the hammer strokes that repaired this shield, when it was broken by the deadly crocodile of Absalom. Fortunately my companions were able to rescue me, allowing my axe to take revenge on the unholy underground creatures."
Despite his pride in the repair, looking at Ambrus eyes, he doesn't look that impressed.
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"Well in the original Shoanti it's 'Törvényeek Behoozója'. Only once it travels from Shoanti to Orc to Goblin to Taldane does it somehow become 'the Measure.'"
Ionic pauses for a second and knits his brows together. "Justa sec, Shoanti ta Orcish? Huh, woulD've sworn Varisian be easier..."
Ionic then looks at the, uh, 'interesting' attempts to try convince Ambrus of their hard work, and pulls up a sleeve of his shirt, "Dun lots of me own healin'. Tooka pike thro de arm in 4698. Here's a scimitar from raidin' in 4654'n'..." He then goes on to detail some of his more impressive scars and what it took to heal them up.
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"Well in the original Shoanti it's 'Törvényeek Behoozója'. Only once it travels from Shoanti to Orc to Goblin to Taldane does it somehow become 'the Measure.'"
Ionic pauses for a second and knits his brows together. "Justa sec, Shoanti ta Orcish? Huh, would've sworn Varisian be easier..."
Zaza chuckles. "Yes I suppose it would at that if only I spoke Varisian. Shoanti is similar enough that I can understand it. At any rate Orcish is much handier in Urgrir."
She winks at Ionic before turning to Ambrus.
"While I'm no stranger to hard work I do prefer to work smarter rather than harder. Unfortunately that wasn't much of an option in Urgrir or I could have saved some coin on boot leather."
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An elf joins the group and introduces himself. "Good day everyone. This is quite an enormous gathering! So many pathfinders in one setting. My name is Variel Nightbreeze." At the mention of his name, he gives a polite bow.
As the discussion moves into the subject of work, Variel mentions that he earns income through a variety of performances. He attempts to demonstrate different stances of the art of graceful battle dancing ...
... but is somewhat unfocused due to a large number of audiences.
"Beg your pardon you have to see that one."
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Although not address the Steward's original question, Haechi does offer good words to that effect to slightly impress Ambrus. Eando seems to watch with interest as the kobold speaks to Ambrus.
Iconic then starts to get the attention of Ambrus as well. And his tales of daring sea rescues and dealing with injuries seems to get some attention of Ambrus.
Zelphari tries to jump in with his enthusiasm which is recognized by Eando, but does not seem to impress Ambrus. Variel's small demostartions seems to garner the same cold response
Though Zaza's bounding enthusiasm and showing support for her fellow initiates makes Ambrus smile. "Well Kline, I think our recruits will do quiet well it seems" He dismisses himself and leaves you with Eando
Eando grins as says, "Seems like the Steward is impressed and I think you will a good choice for a small inquiry I have"
“A researcher from the College of Mysteries has unearthed some esoteric lore and has begun experimenting with some of the rituals she found within. These rituals seem particularly dangerous, to the extent that some of her colleagues are concerned about her efforts. I would like you to track down the researcher and determine whether the rituals she is studying are under control or if they are too dangerous and need to be stopped.”
“Also if you need any information around town, you can drop my name to help loosen lips, but don’t over use it”
* Ambrus (Eando) - 3 success (COMPLETES)
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AS Granitt looks at his shield, hoping to see where he can improve the repair, he looks up to see an elf introduce himself. He nudges Haechi, "Did you know Variel was joining us. Welcome Variel Nightbreeze, glad you made it. Seems the music ain't in time with your steps. Ne'er mind sure you'll recover, me repairs didn't either, but me shield 'as saved me life afore now." the dwarf chuckles.
After Eando lays out a task before them, Granitt asks, "So Capn Eando, who is this researcher, 'as she got a name?"
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"Thank you...er...Granitt? Was it? I apologize, I'm not very good at remembering names. Especially with a crowd as large as this." He shakes the dwarf's hand and gives a polite nod. "I am feeling a bit rusty lately. Might need more time to improve my dance." He then listens attentively as Eando and Granitt talk about the researcher.
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Haetae was elated; she'd timed her escape perfectly and her master was none the wiser to her absence. Reaching the food table, she ducks under the tablecloth and out of sight beneath.
Peeking out, she sees that Haechi is deep in conversation with the important looking gentleman. Knowing her master, she estimated that she had only a few minutes before her disappearance was noted and she was called back.
She waits a few seconds, and creeping out the back of the table, takes to the air and hovers at tabletop height just long enough to grab a plate of something and dive back under. Knowing her time is limited, she starts ravenously stuffing the pigs in a blanket into her mouth, barely chewing them before swallowing. Soon, her tiny body is sated and she takes her time finishing the last of the delicious bacon-wrapped sausages.
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He nudges Haechi, "Did you know Variel was joining us..."
Haechi is too engrossed with what the venture-captain is saying to register Granitt's nudge, or much else for that matter. He quickly digs a notebook out from inside his cloak and makes notes as Eando describes the mission.
Once they take their leave of Eando and Ambrus and move back into the crowd, Haechi turns to face Variel. "Ah, hello there. I don't believe we've been officially introduced. You gave your name as Variel Nightbreeze, I believe. Pleased to meet you. I am Haechi, and this is Hae.... hey!" Haechi is surprised to find that his familiar has disappeared.
Looking around he says, "I wonder where she got to." He pings his familiar using their shared empathic link and finds Haetae hiding under a nearby food table, stuffing one last hors d'oeuvre into her maw. "Oh dear, oh dear. This won't do at all," and empathically orders her to return immediately.
Once Haetae is back on her usual perch, Haechi finishes his introduction. "Sorry about that Variel, but this very bad girl is Haetae, who usually follows me wherever I go."
Turning to face the group, he beams at them and says, "I do believe that went quite well. We must have made a very favorable impression or he wouldn't have entrusted us with such an extremely important mission. How exciting!" He looks around the room and adds, "I'd suggest that we get started on it right away, but it seems a pity to leave the party so early."
Spotting Calisro Benarry across the room, he says excitedly, "Oh, oh, I see the leader of my faction over there. I haven't seen much of her recently; I hear she's been out to sea exploring. We should go over and say hello." He starts in her direction. Calling back over his shoulder, he says, "Come along now. She won't bite... much, ha ha," and laughs at his little joke.
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Ionic gives a little start at the appearance of an elf right next to the group. "Niceta meetcha, Nightbreeze. Goodta havea twig-bones with us. Seems like ya can dance, but dat seemed a bit... off."
He then turns back to Ambrus and nods at Elando's suggestion that the group go and double check that the rituals being performed by this woman are safe or not. "Should get ta dat soon, but should have da time ta say hello. Be rude ta leave now." Ionic squints a little at where Haechi points and nodes. "Ah, Captain Benarry. Good ta see her." He follows after the kobold, adding, "Only gets bitey when drunk... or angry."
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As she takes her leave of Ambrus and Eando, Zaza notices the exchange between Haechi and Haetae and smirks. On her way to visit Calisro Bearry she makes a quick detour to one of the food tables and fills a plate. She also slips a few meat pies and sausages into a belt pouch.
She nods at the two women as she approaches. "Good evening Calisro, Zarta. Have you tried the meat pies? They're not bad. I wish I could find some sake to wash it down with. I rather developed a taste for the stuff while in Minkai and it's devilishly hard to find in Absalom. That lovely Tien woman with the noodle cart is the only vendor that ever seems to have any."
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She nods at the two women as she approaches. "Good evening Calisro, Zarta. Have you tried the meat pies? ..."
Haechi was about to introduce himself to his faction leader when Zaza beats him to it. He's a little shocked by the casualness of her greeting and somewhat uncharacteristically, decides to keep quiet and let the sorcerer take the lead.
He tended to have trouble concentrating around Zarta Dralneen anyway. That combination of extreme beauty and barely restrained menace made him nervous. His simultaneous attraction and repulsion for the woman pulled at his mind, making it difficult for him to focus on the matter at hand.
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"I do not I have the pleasure of meeting Calisro. Overheard someone say that she's a pirate, but that can't be, right? Not a Venture Captain of the Society?" Zelphari asks seemingly innocently, but with a faint wry grin.
As he approaches though, he looks with some discomfort at Zarta. Unbeknownst to him, his reaction almost exactly mirrors the kobold's. Unconsciously, the winds that surround him perpetually stirs more restlessly.
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The two women are in a lively discussion about some of the more bizarre and mystical discoveries each has made over their respective careers. The discussion seems to be focused on the Cyclopian runes in and around the Mwangi Expanse and the Sea of Shackles.
When Haechi mentions the meat pies, both Calisro and Zarta laugh at some other joke. Calisro smirk. "I do not think the I would trust the meat pies"
Zarta also smirks, "Yes, one must becareful of the meat in foreign lands." Zarta regains some composure and turns. "So brave initiates. Do you have what it takes to plumb the understandings of Mystical and Magical nature of the past. Or at least the skills to learn up on it quickly?"
Calisro steps back a bit and take a swig from her flask and watches how you handle the Archivist's questions.
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Zarta regains some composure and turns. "So brave initiates. Do you have what it takes to plumb the understandings of Mystical and Magical nature of the past. Or at least the skills to learn up on it quickly?"
Upon hearing Zarta's sensuous voice, Haechi's brain seems to freeze and his mouth goes dry. He can't help but stare at her entranced. At the same time, under his scales, sweat glands he didn't know he had, start working overtime; his lizard brain is screaming at him to run.
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When Haechi mentions the meat pies, both Calisro and Zarta laugh at some other joke. Calisro smirk. "I do not think the I would trust the meat pies"Zarta also smirks, "Yes, one must be careful of the meat in foreign lands." Zarta regains some composure and turns. "So brave initiates. Do you have what it takes to plumb the understandings of Mystical and Magical nature of the past. Or at least the skills to learn up on it quickly?"
Calisro steps back a bit and take a swig from her flask and watches how you handle the Archivist's questions.
Zaza looks puzzled at Zarta's comment but shrugs and eats a meat pie anyway.
"I don't know about that. This pie is better than some of the Urgrir street food I've had in the past."
"As to your question I have no formal training in the esoteric arts if that's what you mean. I have however been casting spells for the past twenty years give or take and have learned a thing or two. Any gaps in my knowledge can usually be solved by consulting one or more of my ancestors. In many respects I would say I have more connection with the past than most, seeing as I can directly communicate with my forefathers."
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Granitt, detours on the journey to Calisro via the tap, where he orders a dark brown strong ale, foaming and full of flavour. It makes a secondary pattern on his moustache and beard, tan on red bristled dwarven hair. With a sweeping movement of his right hand, the foam is wiped from his face. A long satisfying deep sound emanates from Granitt's stomach, "Ahhh, nice!" he says with a smile as he takes a breaded ball of meat from the delicacies table. The ball is thrown towards his mouth and gobbled up in one. This is repeated twice more, before his stomach signifies it's satisfaction once again.
He picks up two more and heads over to Ionic, "Try these, go belting with an ale!" He nods, before looking over at Calisro and Zarta, "Yes Zarta, she is used to storing those most dangerous of magical items brought to the cellars of the Society, be careful around her!"
The dwarf decides to hold his tongue, magics weren't something he was overly familiar with, holy magics, well then he could speak with some authority, though priests knew more than he.
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Haetae notices that her master is being unusually reticent and turns to look at him. She recognizes that open-mouthed stare and the beads of sweat, and follows his glassy-eyed look to the source of the problem. She spots Zarta and thinks, "Oh no. Not again!"
Fortunately, she knew just what to do. She swings her tail around and smacks it hard into the side of her master's head.
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Haechi yelps when Haetae's tail slaps him on the side of his head. "Ow! What in the blazes..." he says and turns to look at his familiar. Haetae looks away and pretends she had nothing to do with it.
But the slap had the intended effect and the spell is broken. Haechi blinks once or twice and then turns back to Calisro and Zarta, who stare back at him in some surprise.
"Oh, um. It's nothing really. Merely a flesh wound. Just ignore her. She's being particularly cantankerous tonight for some reason." He gives Haetae a now-is-not-a-good-time stare and returns his attention to the two women.
"So, uh, where were we? Ah, yes, mystical and magical nature of the past was it not?" He glances to Zaza, hoping for confirmation. Turning back, he coughs and takes a second to regain his composure. Zaza's words finally begin to trickle their way into his brain.
"Well then, it appears that Zaza here has the mystical nature of the past covered in spades by her ancestors. How wonderful it must be to commune with one's forebears in such a manner. Why, I myself have no end of questions that I'd like to ask my progenitors. Uh... but I digress."
Pulling himself together, he continues, "As far as plumbing the magical understandings of the past is concerned, I'm your man, um... kobold. When not on an extremely important mission for the Society, I spend almost all my time on my research. Admittedly, my chosen area of study is rather more dragon-based than specifically about the past, but that is merely a matter of focus. I have no doubt that given time, I can uh, quickly plumb the understandings of almost any subject, magical or otherwise. Of course, that assumes that I have access to the appropriate materials, but even that obstacle can be overcome with diligence and a little luck. Why, I remember one particular case where..."
Haetae bumps Haechi with her head, and the wizard realizes that he's starting to ramble. "Yes, um. Well, as you can see, we are more than adequately equipped to handle any um, past related understanding that you might need plumbed. Yes indeed, we are."
He looks over at Zaza again with wide eyes and a how-did-I-do shrug before putting on a fixed smile and returning his attention to Calisro and Zarta, hoping to gauge their reaction.
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Hearing all the talk of the food and reccomendations, Ionic wipes some drool from a corner of his mouth. "Might hit da food afta dis." He then glances at his empty stein adding, "Need drink ta! Gettin' dirsty."
He glances around at everyone else seemingly trapped by Zarta and her enchanting prescence and gives a shrug as he looks her up and down, seemingly uninterested in her appeal and probably having seen more intimidating things before. He gives her a grin, "Can tell magicked plants... Oh 'n' some easy divine spells."
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Zarta warmly smiles at Haechi and nods with approval.
Haechi feels his scales changing with whatever the kobold equivalent of blushing might be. He looks down at the floor, finding something fascinating in the tile pattern to distract him. After a moment, he glances back up and is relieved to find that Zarta has switched her attentions to Zaza's apparently enthralling recollection of her explorations of the Thassilonian ruins of her homeland. Even Haechi finds himself mesmerized by the story.
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Zarta turns to Calisro. "I think this is a fine batch of initiates. If not exactly knowledgable in specifics willing to look outside the book for solutions. They shall do well"
Calisro takes a swig from her flask. "Zarta is one of the better ones around here. Now she stays in with her books and duties, but I always get the scense that she misses the life outside these walls. And that I hope you are able to do for her in the future. However I have a bit more personal task for you"
“I have a collection of eccentric friends that I have made over the years. One of the weirdest—a long-lived naga with unparalleled occult knowledge—was unjustly accused of a crime, punished with the Charge of the Gorgon, and left petrified in Westgate. I have negotiated with someone to get permission to restore my friend, but it’ll look a lot more official if a third party takes care of the details, and you are a perfect fit.” She gives you a greater salve of antiparalysis with explicit instructions that it be used only on the target.
“And if you need a bit of a ‘pick me up’ take this’ she slips out a small unmarked flask that has some sweet red liquid in it. “That should keep your sould with your body” The flask is a minor healing potion
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Zelphari hangs back in the discussion so far, knowing when brains are more needed than brawn, and hence, that now is not his time to speak. Instead, he continues to observe Calisro and Zarta. Forward women are common in mercenary bands, and he realised that these two, despite being vastly different in appearance, share a common core. And he smiles.
"What is the Charge of the Gorgon? I'm afraid that Absalom is still somewhat foreign to me."
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"Shall we visit Sorrina next? I've heard interesting tales of his past." Zelphari looks across the room at her with some amount of eagerness.
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Haechi takes the salve and healing potion from Calisro, saying "Thank you for your vote of confidence, venture-captain Benarry. You may count on us; we will not disappoint you."
With the commission accepted, and the conversation having come to an end, Haechi takes his leave of the two women and heads towards the drinks table for a stiff one.
"What is the Charge of the Gorgon? I'm afraid that Absalom is still somewhat foreign to me."
Haechi downs the last of his drink. "That was rather nerve-wracking, I must say. What was that, Zelphari? You're wondering about the Charge of the Gorgon? A fascinating spectacle indeed. If you've had the chance to venture into Westgate, just a few blocks from here, you will come across a strange street lined with rather, um... shall we say, well-executed statues. ha ha." He pauses to laugh at his little joke before continuing.
"These statues are the result of an annual event called the Charge of the Gorgon. It's a very popular affair with the locals. They barricade a street and release a bunch of petty criminals into it along with an angry gorgon. Those who escape the gorgon are pardoned; those who fail become statues. The statues are then used to decorate the street in question, which is rather unimaginatively named Statue Street."
Grabbing a handful of deep-fried breaded cheese sticks from the next table, he turns back to the group. "It appears that the venture-captain would like us to de-petrify one of these statues for her. It should be a rather simple undertaking, especially as she's given us the means to carry it out," he waves the salve of antiparalysis at them to indicate what he means. It starts slipping from his hands, but with a quick grab, he manages to save it from falling. "Oopsy daisy. Must be more careful. I understand that these salves are rather expensive," he says, and tucks it away into his bandolier along with the healing potion. He then stuffs his mouth with whatever cheese sticks Haetae hadn't stolen from his other hand.
"Shall we visit Sorrina next? I've heard interesting tales of his past." Zelphari looks across the room at her with some amount of eagerness.
With his mouth full of cheese sticks, Haechi nods eagerly and says, "Yes, <crunch, crunch> let's."
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Haetae is still somewhat stuffed with the sausages and bacon she ate earlier, but when Haechi picks up a handful of crispy cheese sticks and turns his attention away from them, she can't help herself. She reaches over with one hand, grabs a couple of them, shoves them into her mouth, and quickly returns to her original position as if nothing had happened. A little later, you hear, "<crunch, crunch>"
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Ionic nods at the suggestion to go talk to Sorrina and Fola by extension. "Meet ya dere. Need food first"
He takes a different route than most people and swings by the finger foods, piling a plate full of the various things available there. The meat pies and pigs in blankets take up a good portion of his plate, but he also piles on some broccoli florets and then grabs some skewers of random meats as well. Hitting up the bar to refill his stein, Ionic arrives next to the two ladies munching on the broccoli at a volume slightly louder than most would consider appropriate.