You have each received a summons from Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin to meet him in one of the meeting rooms at The Grand Lodge.
Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin paces in front of a small table in this meeting room in the Grand Lodge. In front of him on the table is a packet of parchments.
“Pathfinders, a rather concerning development has come to light. I have received a summons requesting Pathfinder presence at a meeting of the Shoanti quahs. The impetus for this request is troubling, to say the least."
“About one year ago, a Pathfinder named Lumketul Simset returned to the Grand Lodge with notes on a rather exciting discovery: a Thassilonian ruin, tucked in a remote area in the Iron Peaks in Varisia. He also returned with several artifacts, which we took in for further study. Lumketul’s notes were the basis of a tale published in the Pathfinder Chronicles shortly thereafter, which has become rather popular among those endeavoring to uncover new Thassilonian discoveries."
“However, I recently received a message from Cousin to All, an ally from the Shriikirri-Quah."
"Shadde-Quah traders came across a copy of the Pathfinder Chronicles. Upon reading Lumketul’s entry, they realized that he was speaking not of a Thassilonian ruin, but of a sacred Shoanti burial site known as the Muschkal Sepulcher. Shadde-Quah leadership contacted the Skoan-Quah, which sent out their boneslayers to confirm the reports. Turns out—unfortunately for all parties—Lumketul did in fact damage and plunder the sepulcher.”
Ambrus rubs his temples with one hand, then continues.
“Our relations with the quahs have already been somewhat strained, although friendlier than their other connections with outsiders. Fortunately for us, we have some history of goodwill with the Shoanti, so Cousin to All was able to convince the other quahs to send representatives to hear our side of the story. Unfortunately for us, our side of the story is still bad. Lumketul showed no regard or respect in his blind pursuit of discovery, and frankly, the Society doesn’t have much grounds to deserve forgiveness. The Muschkal Sepulcher is an important location for all the quahs, and Lumketul’s disregard has cast the Society as a whole in a bad light. We’ve tried contacting Lumketul, but he has cut contact with the Society, and no one in the Society has heard from him in over a year."
"This is where you come in. I would like for all of you to travel to the meeting of the councilmembers and represent the Society. I believe excuses will not be received well; rather, please petition the council with utmost earnestness and sincerity.”
Ambrus pushes the packet of parchments across the table. “I’ve had Lumketul’s notes on his expedition dug up in the hopes they’d be of some use. I’ve also included a copy of his Chronicle publication, although his embellishments and obfuscation of truth may have rendered it useless; nevertheless, maybe you’ll glean some helpful information from it.”
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A dwarf that smells like ... nothing as he is odorless ... stands up. He is unkempt but looks quite healthy! At his side you see a small dinosaur.
”Hey Venture-Captain, do not worry. We will convince them that this was a mistake and we will make things right! Because we are Pathfinders! Sadaf Kargar is my name! It is a pleasure doing business with you all! If you have any interest in natural resources or animal products then I am your expert!!!“ Sadaf says.
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Sadaf is a young Dwarf from an Osiriani merchant family that always felt the pull of the wilderness and saurian animals.
He is a stoic negotiator but has an empathic approach. He is very perceptive and understands people's motives which are qualities that are very important as a merchant.
He typically walks around in his lamellar horn armor and during battle usually tries not to attack but use spells and his animal companion ‘Danduun’ instead.
Sadaf's family has deep roots in the Exchange faction of the Pathfinder Society.
Thus, the Kargar brothers Almaas, Jangafzaar, Toral and Sadaf are all members of the Pathfinder Society.
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Sadaf looks at the VC.
"So can we interview anyone who has first hand information about the mission that led to all this mess??!" he asks.
Valsin shakes his head. “All we have is Lumketul’s notes, the map, and the chronicle entry he wrote. As I said, he is currently somewhere on the water in a boat.”
“I believe he entered the site alone.”
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Truddig reads over the notes given. "Hmmm, looks like Lumketul didn't really follow modern best-practices. Ideally, he should have found a way to read the inscription before entering; that likely would have revealed that this was a Shoanti burial ground rather than a Thassilonian ruin." He shrugs his shoulders and shakes his head. "Can't say I haven't done much the same, though."
He looks up at Valsin with a question. "What sort of, ahh, amends are we empowered to offer, to make this right?"
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Fifi listens attentively and says to the group-"The Venture Captain is correct - we should be earnest and sincere, and cut straight to what we can do to make amends - what can right the Society's wrong. We should not attempt to downplay Lumketul's mistake, nor make excuses."
With a smile, she straightens her back and mingles with the rest of the group, particularly Sadaf, as he is the latest addition to the team.
“The Shoanti originally lived in the lush Varisian territory, but Chelliaxian settlers and their military slowly pushed them out. They now live on the Stormval Plateau. Most shave their heads and have traditional tattoos. Their names tend to be a descriptive phrase.”
“There are seven quah, there will be a council member from each of them.”
He then starts to tell you what he knows of each member you will be meeting.
“Cousin to All is beloved by many Shoanti—a respect hard earned, with her being a former outsider. She is also well respected in Nirmathas, where she often visits on diplomatic missions. She's a valuable ally, and her presence is sure to keep heads level and discussions civil.”
He then gives a description of Cousin to All.
“Payah Against the Wind is renowned for her might. No doubt she is intimidating, but don't let that deter you from trying to convince her of your intentions. She values strength, so show that strength in your conviction.”
Once again, he follows the introduction with a physical description. He does this after giving a brief introduction for each of the others as well.
“Kemchet Flame Stoker definitely has a reputation as a tough leader, equal emphasis on ‘tough' and ‘leader.' As he is strong willed and protective of his people, I seriously doubt you'll be able to convince him that your intentions are true.”
“I don't know much about Togimal in Shadow other than what rumor holds. Skilled hunter, vigilant tracker. I'm not sure what their attitude will be heading into this meeting, but I know the Lyrune-Quah wouldn't send In Shadow if there was any doubt regarding their wisdom and judgment.”
“Many say Lake at Dawn is one of the foremost reasons the Shoanti haven't broken out in civil war. While that's certainly hyperbole, there is no doubt as to his ability to broker peace between the quahs. Although he is protective of his people, I think you will be able to convince him that your actions will be for his people's good.”
“The Skoan-Quah is known for their amazing recall of history, and Memory Tender is known for being one of the best, preserving Shoanti history through tales passed down through the generations.”
“I've heard rumor that Rollicks in Waves is the greatest fishing prodigy the Shoanti have ever seen, not that you'd guess that from being around him. He tends to be loud and brash, from my experience, but kind. He's friendlier to non-Shoanti than most, so his quah tends to have him deal with outsiders when necessary.”
When Truddig asks about what to do in order to make amends, Valsin nods agreement at Fifi’s statements.
He then reaches down beside him and pulls up a large satchel and an egg-shaped rock that emits a warm, red glow. “The bag contains the items Lumketul plundered from the burial site. At the very least, we must return the items to the Shoanti, and I request you try to convince the council to allow you to restore the sepulcher to its proper state. As for the stone, if you touch it to a broken object, it will gradually repair it. It won't last forever, but it should have enough magic left in it for this mission.”
The venture-captain pauses for emphasis. “It's important to the Society to develop further relations with the quahs, so this could be an opportunity to show that we can be trusted.”
Whomever opens the bag quickly realizes it is bigger on the inside than it is on the outside. It contains four carved wooden weapons mounted on simple bases: a bolas, a bow, an earth breaker, and a klar. It also contains a small stone statue of a wolf cub and a ring stylized as a scarab beetle.
“Many of the councilmembers will be suspicious of your intentions, but Cousin to All did convince the rest of the quahs to at least entertain this meeting, so I believe they'll approach this meeting with somewhat open minds. I believe that your best bet is to approach them with honesty and respect, owning our mistake and presenting a clear solution to the problem.”
“However, don't try to play the relics off as a bargaining chip; we are obligated to return the items, not simply doing so as a nicety.”
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Gina, in anthropomorphic fox form as she hasn't found a good disguise option to tease Valsin with yet, eagerly looks over the Pathfinder Chronicle and the notes. "Always happy to go over these and provide, editing for future releases. The Archive is always interested in getting another look at Pathfinder misunderstandings. Won't be the first time, won't be the last. Go ahead, I'm sure there's more."
“Yes, the items in that bag are their property. The bag is ours as is the stone I am giving you to help with any repairs.”
“Admit to our mistake and offer to fix what was disturbed.”
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Gina makes notes on the map, giving us some idea of where to make fixes and return items.
"Return weapons, I think those might need to go in a specific order. Fix coffins, fix pottery, maybe return a skeleton that fell in a pit and had this ring, return the wolf statue here. Not sure the details there either. I'll go ask around, I shouldn't have any problems with some research on the Shoanti, maybe only need to jog my memory from some more Chronicles. Seems some among the Lodge knew something was up with this report. Anyone seen Janira Gavix? She was helpful with my Confirmation and research since."
I am mentioning the consultation and chronicles so you know going forward. As I said, taking 20 alone was enough to get all the information.
15+: The fierce Shoanti are spread throughout the Storval Plateau in northern Varisia, where they eke out a living in harsh, inhospitable conditions.
20+: The Shoanti formerly inhabited much of southern Varisia, until they were forced northward into the Storval Plateau after bloody conflicts with Chelaxian colonists. This violent history has led to many Shoanti being mistrustful of outsiders.
25+: Despite seeming xenophobic, Shoanti are not completely closed off. Many outsiders have been known to join their ranks, but only after a history of demonstrating loyalty to their clan and dedication to its principles.
Valsin says "Good analysis."
"I will point out you failed to include getting permission from the counsel. That has to come first."
"Yes, Cousin to All will be meeting you."
“I have hired Jia, a local wizard, to teleport you to the Storval Stairs, whenever you are ready to depart. He’ll wait for you to complete your mission so you can return back.”
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”Just keeping ahead of the game, sir. From what I understand of the books on the subject, the Shoanti eke out their livings on the Storval plateau. It is harsh and inhospitable there, so I am glad to be avoiding the long trip.”
”The Shoanti mistrust outsiders, especially those they have a history of dislike, such as Cheliaxians. That history being the conquest of southern Varisia by Cheliaxians and the pushing of Shoanti tribes into their current badlands home. Still, it is possible to impress the Shoanti, and with enough loyalty to even become one.”
"That is my understanding. The plateau is harsh, but they seem to have adapted and are thriving there."
20+: The Shoanti formerly inhabited much of southern Varisia, until they were forced northward into the Storval Plateau after bloody conflicts with Chelaxian colonists. This violent history has led to many Shoanti being mistrustful of outsiders.
Valsin gives the group instructions on of how to use the Scavenger’s Stone. He tells you to meet back here when you are ready and Jia will perform the teleport.
Once Sadaf has finished talking to people and everyone has finished any last minute shopping, you meet back at the Grand Lodge. Jia casts teleport, transporting the group and their gear to the entrance of a cavern in what you assume is the Stoval Stairs. The weather is much cooler and the air thinner than in Absalom, but it is not so cold as to be a problem.
Awaiting you there are two of Cousin to All’s assistants, who lead you into the cavern. Jia is directed to wait in another nearby cavern.
The path leading into the earth beneath the Storval Stairs opens into an expansive cavern, chatter echoing off the striated rock walls. Smaller passages branch from the main chamber, winding deeper underground. The space is filled with people grouped in small clusters engaged in quiet discussion.
Waiting near the entrance to the cavern are two Shoanti. One of them, a half-elf with a prominent facial tattoo resembling a styled hawk, approaches. “Be welcome, my cousins. I am Cousin to All. Good to see you well. It seems the others are open to hearing your case, considering that they showed up, so I believe it's possible for a good outcome today.”
The other Shoanti, a shorter human man, approaches the PCs. “I am Rollicks in Waves of the Shadde-Quah. Many thanks to the Society for their past help.”
Cousin to All replies to Truddig “Do not grovel, we value strength as well as honesty. Groveling is something the weak do.”
Rollicks continues, “I see this situation as the actions of a rogue agent. I've seen what good the Society can do, so this seems like one individual's mistake to me. You've got a ‘yes' vote from me. With mine and Cousin to All's votes, you'll need to convince two of the others to vote for you as well—majority wins.”
Cousin to All nods. “I think it would be best to get as many of the other councilors on board as possible. Having the quahs unified is in the best interest of not only each individual clan, but to the Shoanti as a whole. Opening them up to further alliances with the Society would benefit both sides, and hopefully lead to the other Shoanti becoming more receptive to interacting with the outside world, which I believe would be a massive boon for our people.”
“The meeting begins immediately.”
At Cousin to All's summons, the councilmembers walk up a sloping stone ramp to a rise featuring a row of wooden benches. Cousin to All and Rollicks in Waves take their seats toward the left side of the platform. A councilor with a rune pattern on her face formed with tattoo and scar takes a wide-stance seat, idly spinning a greatsword. A slight figure with hood drawn sits cross-legged and hunched, eyes downward. Another councilor sits forward on her bench, a vulture perched next to her. A long-haired man clad in a robe takes his place, waiting attentively. The last councilor stands near his bench, arms crossed and with a cold glare, auroch hood around his shoulders.
Cousin to All begins. “Thank you, all, for honoring my request and being here today. I understand that this is a situation of the utmost sensitivity, so I appreciate everyone's continued civility as we discuss this matter.”
“As you all know, a Pathfinder Society agent has desecrated the Muschkal Sepulcher—a severe offense. However, the Society would like to right their wrongs. They have sent these representatives to present their case to you, esteemed representatives, on how they would like to repair our bonds and fix this problem.”
The man in the auroch cloak hardens his glare. “What bonds do we have to repair? These tshameks deserve no such opportunity and no forgiveness. This is a Shoanti problem that only the Shoanti can fix, as we always have.”
“At least hear them out, Kemchet Flame Stoker,” Cousin to All bristles. “I understand your frustrations with this situation— believe me, I have some of my own—but the Pathfinder Society wants to make things right. I feel it only fair to allow them that chance.”
Flame Stoker scoffs but speaks no further. The hooded figure looks around the room as everyone speaks. They look almost as if they will speak, but they remain silent, instead studying each person.
The vulture and its owner stare at each Pathfinder in turn before the latter speaks. “The boneslayers reported extensive damage and missing relics from the sepulcher. This site is of the utmost importance to our history, built up over hundreds of years. That legacy can't be repaired in a day.”
The woman with the greatsword sneers. “They certainly don't look like much. How could we trust their ability to fix things?” She clangs her sword off the rock platform for emphasis.
Rollicks in Waves shoots a look at her and retorts, “The Society is more capable than you think, Payah Against the Wind. Do at least give them a chance to prove that.”
The long-haired man speaks up. “This has been a most troubling development. I want to hear what these Pathfinders have to say. My only request is that the quahs reach a mutual understanding and maintain a mutual respect on this matter, even if our opinions on the best course of action differ. We must remain unified, even in our disagreements.”
“Certainly a worthy goal, Lake at Dawn. I trust everyone to strive toward that,”
Cousin to All remarks. “So, Pathfinders, please approach and state your case.”
“How are you going to undo your misdeeds? How will you settle the Society's debt?”
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Sadaf steps forward and speaks to Lake at Dawn.
“We very much appreciate the chance to speak here for the Pathfinder society! We know that one of our agents made a grave mistake! And we are here to repair the damages! And we hope to be able to show you that we respect your ancestors and your traditions and that we can be a trusted partner to all Shoanti ... unified!“ and he bows in front of the council and especially looks at Lake at Dawn.
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"I believe you to be sincere in your desires to make amends for the sacrilege that one of your own agents has wrote."
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Ginadori makes some guesses to help her party, but intends to get a good read on a few of them if time allows.
"Flame-Stoker is a warchief, I am unsure he can be influenced at all, but I suggest if we try, we show strength and leadership. He may come around once we have more influence."
"Memory Tender is their historian. I think I might be able to influence her with my own knowledge of history, but perhaps others know better. And as with anyone with an animal companion, we may influence her kindly through her vulture. She may have forgotten we are well equipped for this mission."
"Anyone feel like performing martially for Payah Against the Wind?"
"Togimal in Shadow is an enigma, but might be a great ally here. Maybe I can suss out something."
"And I think you are on the right track, Sadaf, Lake at Dawn is their peacemaker. Diplomacy may be the best approach."
Gina tries to recall more that might help with Togimal. Discovery Analyze. Using a bit of inspiration from her lupine robes.
Gina isn't able to get a reading on Togimal.
Awkin realizes that the surest way to impress Togimal In Shadow is to demonstrate hunting prowess with a Profession (hunter) check.
Sadaf believes that demonstrating knowledge of Shoanti ancestor worship or how sites such as the Muschkal Sepulcher play a role in ancestor worship with a Knowledge (religion) would be the best way to impress Lake at Dawn.
Truddig isn’t able to get a good read on how to influence Kemchet Flame Stoker. He does get a number of taunts for his trouble.
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Fifi, taking into account what Sadaf just found out about Lake At Dawn, puts in a few words for the Society-"We understand the Muschkal Sepulcher plays a very important role in your way of life. For your people, your history, your ancestors, your stories are ... sacred. We as a group have been sent not only to ask for forgiveness from you, but from your ancestors too. Let us show all Shoanti, present in body and in spirit, that the Society rights their wrongs, and treats their friends with the respect they deserve."-doing her best to tie in the exact functions in the Muschkal Sepulcher.
Lake at Dawn replies "Your words have wisdom to them. We will see if we give you the opportunity to act on them."
Although he hasn't promised it, you think he has been swayed to allowing you that opportunity.
Gina isn't sure what is the best way to address Payah Against the Wind.
Sadaf observes and speaks a bit to Kemchet Flame Stoker, enduring various taunts and barbs.
After the conversation, Sadaf is convinced that Kemchet will vote against allowing the Society an opportunity to make amends. Sadaf believes Kemchet made up his mind before he came here and there doesn't appear any way to sway him.
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Truddig decides to turn his focus to Payah Against the Wind, following Gina's advice that she respects martial prowess. "From the beginning of my life, I have always been a soldier. I received my first training in archery on the slopes of a Sky Citadel, then hired out as a mercenary in companies widespread throughout Golarian, spending much time in Nirmathas, where I gained skill and experience defending them from Molthunian invasions. Even today, in the Pathfinder Society, I bring that skill to most missions. Though I don't expect combat to set things right for the Shoanti--our task today should not need my bow--you should be comforted to know that an experienced soldier will be on the mission, just in case."