Arriving by messenger to each of you is this invitation!
Following the invitation's suggestion, you arrive at the Grand Lodge in Absalom. Feel free to describe how you received your invitation and how you either came to Absalom or traveled to the Grand Lodge
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Veecs was very excited to receive his letter, so much so that he left his friend Brax to finish working on his patient. The Pathfinder Society held such promise of adventure and stories to tell, he could barely contain his excitement as he trotted to the Grand Lodge. On the way there he ran into a few of the taller folk who weren’t quite used to seeing goblins in populated areas yet, but no one showed him any outright hostility.
Standing outside the door to the Grand Lodge Veecs looks up at the building, ”Uh, do I knock or do I just go in…”
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Having read the invitation, Atae makes herself presentable after her ministrations in the Temple of Calistria and makes her way to the Grand Lodge at the required hour.
The beautiful elven woman enters into the area, a white fur cloak over her. Dressed in yellow and black, in the form of a wasp's patterns,
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Apollo Fireborn, a crazed, bug-eyed, wild-haired halfling with a red scraggly beard sits at a corner table at the Grand Lodge. He appears to be entertaining some guests with a levitating crystal ball and a deck of cards. Anyone approaching can see that the orb isn't crystal at all ... just bits of colored glass. So it's more opaque. In fact, the only resemblance to an actual crystal ball is that it's round. In fact, upon closer inspection, it's not even all that round.
He carries a halfling sling staff beside him. Over his studded leather armor, his once-fine clothing appears to be constantly smoldering. As he approaches, it faintly smells as if something is burning.
He looks around, "Who else wants to know their fortune?" Brandishing an empty mug, the halfling interupts himself, "That punch bowl needs more ... punch. Did someone forget to spike it again?" Realizing other new initiates are joining him, he quickly stands up, "Ahhh, there you are. Been looking everywhere for our meeting. I was just ... taking a little break when I couldn't find you. " He looks around, "But where are my manners?" He nods to Veecs and Atae and continues, "I'm Apollo. I don't mind celebrations. Make the most of it, I say. What happens in Absalom...." He grins his crazed awkward grin, and uses Prestidigitation to make the crystal ball rise once again. "So who's next?"
Realizing his clothes are smoldering again, he reassures everyone, "Oh, don't worry about the smell. I'm a Flames Oracle. You'll get used to the occasional smoke. It's true about my last mission, a pub in Port Peril took on some fire damage. But nothing that couldn't be put out...eventually. The casualty list was minimal. So relax, you have almost nothing to fear." He scans the group looking for a volunteer.
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Elfino was happy to be back home in Absalom. He'd checked in at the Grand Lodge upon returning from his last mission in the frozen northern wastes, but he was now back where he belonged in his beloved Puddles for some well-deserved rest. At least here in the Soggy Piper he would not be in danger of freezing to death or being rent by giant bears, though he reflected half-jokingly that in the Puddles anything could happen, and quite often did.
Sitting quietly at a table in a shadowy corner of the bar with his hood up, his features are shrouded in darkness and hard to make out. Occasionally one of his confederates might join him to catch him up on how his many business ventures are doing; or perhaps one of his informers will pass by the table to whisper something in his ear; but generally he sits alone, nursing his ale, and keeping a watch on the goings on around him.
He is a little surprised to see a young and clearly terrified halfling enter the bar and look around for someone. Elfino recognized him as one of the new initiates at the Grand Lodge. He was amazed that that the little fellow had made it all the way to the door of the Soggy Piper without having met a rather grim fate along the way. Those halflings were rather lucky bastards really.
When the young halfling doesn't see the person he's looking for, he starts waving the slip of paper in his hand like a flag and shouts out for all to hear. Elfino almost sprays his mouthful of ale across the table as all the noise in the bar ceases and every head in the establishment turns a baleful glare on the newcomer. Several of the customers start reaching for their weapons and look ready to engage the halfling in conversation, but Elfino recovers; makes his way across the bar surprisingly quickly; snatches the halfling up by the collar; and drags him out the door and into an nearby alley before anyone else in the bar can react more forcefully.
"Whut de devil do ya tink yer up ta? Do ya 'ave a death wish or sometin'? Whoever sent ya 'ere from de Grand Lodge clearly don't want ya back. I'm Elfino by de way." Elfino then plucks the note from the stunned initiate's hand and scans it. He rolls his eyes. "Ugh. I hate these things. Why me? All I want is to be left alone for a while." But he shakes his head knowing that the invitation is more akin to a command and that his choice in the matter is limited. "Fine. I'll show up for a quick snack but first chance I get I'm out of there." Grabbing the halfling by the collar again, Elfino half pulls and half pushes the fellow through the alleys and out of the Puddles, making sure that the initiate gets back to the Grand Lodge in one piece.
Seeing that he has little time before the start of the celebration, he decides to go there directly and get it over with. Stepping quietly into the room, he spots a small group of early comers and sliding up besides them, tries to use them as cover from the rest of the crowd. They soon notice him though and turn to face him expectantly. Elfino sighs and drops his hood. The group is a little surprised to find itself looking up at a rather tall albino elf.
A pair of clear red eyes stare back down at them with preternatural stillness from a clean shaven face whose skin is the color and smoothness of polished alabaster. A close-cropped mop of snow-white hair does nothing to hide his pointed elven ears. By human standards he seems young but when he introduces himself, it is with a weary tone that belies his apparent age. Those who have not heard Elfino speak before usually expect to hear the refined and cultured diction for which elves are known. They are quite surprised when instead, they hear the rough and uncouth vernacular of the Puddles emerge from his lips. "Elfino's de name n detectin' is ma racket, uh... I mean trade."
Elfino looks over his companions and sizes them up with a trained eye. They were quite a mixed bag; A vociferous red-haired halfling; an unusually robust goblin; an attractive though forbidding-looking elf; and a hunched half-orc with a cane... hold on, wasn't that Itka? "Nice ta see ya again Itka. It's been a while. 'Ow 'ave ya been 'oldin' up?"
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.
While they wait, Janira eagerly tries to get a fortune from Apollo, "Do me next, do me next! What fortune do I have!? I hope it' that I'll get a slice of the ambrosia cake before it runs out!"
You heard Aaqir al-Hakam is at this celebration. Aaqir is a well-groomed, clean-shaven man of Qadiran descent, dressed finely and flashing a charming smile. He’s maintaining his connection to the Society so as to serve as a steady supplier of adventuring goods. Aaqir makes his living through a global trade network and perks up to hear about business opportunities, trading partners, and the like.
You heard that Tamrin Credence was going to be here. A halfling man with brown hair, Tamrin gained his several visible facial scars serving as a distraction to facilitate the liberation of several dozen halfling slaves in Cheliax. Ever since, he has worked on behalf of Liberty’s Edge, a largely independent faction that sometimes coordinates with the Pathfinder Society. Tamrin enthusiastically discusses elements of disguise and the complexities of stamping out the slave trade.
You heard Kreighton Shane is at the celebration. The Pathfinder Society’s Master of Scrolls—the Society’s dean responsible for agents’ academic training—is an eccentric and absent-minded elf with long, blond hair. Though a brilliant puzzle-solver and code-breaker, his odd mannerisms leave many agents bewildered. In addition to loving puzzles and games, the Master of Scrolls is interested in obscure knowledge in all forms.
You heard Kreighton Shane is at the celebration. The Pathfinder Society’s Master of Spells is an eccentric and absent-minded elf with long, blond hair. Kreighton Shane is responsible for teaching initiates about how to wield, identify, and evade magical threats Though a brilliant puzzle-solver and code-breaker, his odd mannerisms leave many agents bewildered. Master of Spells is is intrigued by other agents with religious or planar knowledge, as well as those who keep thorough records.
You heard Kreighton Shane is at the celebration. The Pathfinder Society’s Master of Scrolls—the Society’s dean responsible for agents’ academic training—is an eccentric and absent-minded elf with long, blond hair. Though a brilliant puzzle-solver and code-breaker, his odd mannerisms leave many agents bewildered. In addition to loving puzzles and games, the Master of Scrolls is interested in obscure knowledge in all forms.
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Roddy was working out of a warehouse on the docks when his letter would have arrived. He was pulling some guard duty of sorts, making sure none of these previously stolen good get stolen again from the new owners. A long shift, and not nearly as exciting as bouncing or guard duty.
A long day walking around doing nothing. Exhausted by the boredom of looking for threats that never showed themselves, Roddy comes back to the boarding house to find the letter on his bed. FINALLY! It feels like he has waited forever for this moment! He quickly peels off his work clothes and tosses on his new britches and a red leather vest he bought just for this occasion.
Looking up at the sky Roddy knows he is late. Well he is almost always late but this time it wasn't his fault. He mumbles to himself "Well right no one will notice, I hope. I heard these gatherings go on for quite some time"
As he makes it to the Great Lodge and pushes open the doors anxiety about his past and who he has been flood through him. He immediately gets some of the punch to calm his nerves and mingles with the other new initiates as if he has been here all along.
Janira rushes over to Roddy when he enters, "You're right on time...well, for a Pathfinder anyway!"
Now that most of you are gathered together, Janira gives a little more information, "Like I was saying, this is a great opportunity to meet some of the big names of the Pathfinder Society. In fact, there are four people here that I really think you should make connections with!" she says, holding up her right hand to count on her fingers.
Sticking her thumb out first, she continues, "First is Calisro Benarry, or as I like to call her, Ben-arrrrr-y. Get it!? Because she's like a pirate!... Don't say that to her face, though! Anyway, she leads the Horizon Hunters. Oh, she's that half-orc over there with the pirate's hat."
Raising her pointer finger, she says, "Second is Eando Kline. He's a bit stuffy, but he leads the Vigilant Seal. Human looking, dark hair, beard, no mustache, and a scar on his left eye, your right." she rambles.
Raising the next finger, she indicates to a dark-skinned half-elf woman, [b]"That's Fola Barun. You'll love her; she's great and loves new agents! Right now, she is the leader of Envoy's Alliance."
Raising the next finger, she indicates a dwarf with a lute, "And finally, that's Grom Greathammer! He leads the Grand Archive and has a love of books and stories in all their forms. That's probably the best faction anyway!" she says, smiling as she proudly flashes her own Grand Archive pin.
She gestures you forwards towards their general direction, "Go, go! Let me know if you need any help! I'll probably be getting some of that cake!"
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Sitting at his corner table, Apollo looks up at the oddest elf he's ever seen. He greets Elfino, "Sir. Your eyes. They match my hair. That's a first for me. I'm Apollo, a fortune teller." When Roddy walks up to the table, Apollo smiles, "Another halfling in our midst. Well met. We can have a halfling convention once Janira joins us."
When Janira walks up and asks about a reading, he turns to her, "Ah, a true believer in the occult. Sit right down." He shuffles his deck of cards.
Apollo continues, "Now, if you'll just cut the deck, we can commence."
Janira cuts the deck and Apollo turns over the top card: The Four of Pentacles.
The card depicts a man on a stool gripping 4 star-shaped coins, as if his life-depended on it. The card is displayed upside-down. Apollo explains, "The Four of Pentacles. Normally, this carries a negative connotation regarding wealth and insecurity. However, given that it's in the reverse position, it indicates a warm-heartedness and generosity in your career. You're someone who's readily available to help others and give credit where credit is due." He pauses and continues, "Just a warning. Be careful with your money in the near future. You're a bit too trusting and it could lead to financial embarrassment." He puts the cards away.
He then snaps his fingers. "But you asked about cake! Of course. For that, I need a simple coin." He gestures and casts Prestidigitation to create a small plastic token in his hand. It has a picture of a cake on one side and is blank on the other. He flips it.
The fortune-teller smiles. "You're in luck! I hear it's delicious." The coin then vanishes.
Apollo stands and scans the room. "Now ... where is that merchant, Aaquir al-Hakam? I saw him earlier. He handles a vast trade market for the Society, and always has oddities in his collection." The halfling stands on his chair to get a better look.
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Those near the entrance here a solid thunking sound, followed shortly by the sight of a scowling hunched gray half-orc woman with streaks of gray in her lanky black hair. She's dressed in a simple black shift dress, slightly faded and obviously tailored (though not expertly) to accommodate her Quasimodo-like posture. The thunking sound comes from her thick, sturdy cane, which looks more like a weapon than a walking aid. She shuffles slowly into the room, limping a bit, and mumble-grousing to herself: "'...best foot forward.' Hmp. I'm not buying a new dress. Bad enough I had to fix this one up..." This continues until she gets to within five or so feet of anyone she recognizes, whether from past experience or by reputation.
Stopping beside Janira just as Apollo stands up on his chair, she greets Janira and the one familiar face in her customary gruff manner. "Hmp. Janira. Elfino." She takes a deep breath, as if she is slightly winded. "I heard Kreighton Shane was going to be here. Hmp. I want to compare notes with him about the Shadow Plane. But first, I want to hear about those 'oddities' in Aaquir al-Hakam's collection." Nodding once at Apollo, she grunts: "I'm Itka."
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Elfino was having a hard time hiding behind the group he'd picked. "What's with all the halflings I'm running into today? Maybe there's something about me that's attracting them." He surreptitiously sniffs at himself. "The goblin and the hunched Itka aren't exactly helping either. Thank Irori for the attractive elf or I'd look like a stalk of corn in a field of wheat." He needn't have worried too much; any eyes that wandered in their direction were immediately pulled toward the stunning elf at his side; he might as well have been invisible.
When Apollo introduces himself, Elfino nods in acknowledgement. "Pleased ta meet ya." There was something vaguely familiar about the strange halfling but he couldn't quite put his finger on it. He watches as Apollo runs his fortune teller scam on Janira, but as nothing of value was supplied in exchange, is not sure what the point was; maybe Apollo was setting up a long-con of some sort. He'd have to keep a close eye on this one.
He scans the room over the heads of his new friends looking for someone in particular. It was something that hapless halfling initiate he'd saved from a grisly death had blathered on about on the way back to the Lodge. "I too 'eard dat Kreighton Shane would be 'ere today. 'E's apparently quite gifted at solvin' puzzles n crackin' codes as well as bein' generally interested in obscure knowledge of all forms." Elfino's voice took on a somewhat monotone quality as he repeated almost word-for-word what the initiate had told him on the way here.
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Roddy nods at the others politely. He heard the Pathfinders Society takes in all types and is pleased to find it is true. Maybe he isn't as out of place as he thought.
"Aye well met!" He greets the ginger halfling as he takes a seat, but only for a moment before standing back up again. He glances with a nervous smile from the fortune teller to his deck of tarot cards before excusing himself. "Well, no better time then the now to introduce myself, reckon"
He walks towards Calisro Benarry with the intent of introducing himself, but ends up just grabbing a drink from her and walking away. He walks around the hall twice over the time it takes to finish that drink and musters the courage to try again.
He strides towards the Half-orc with purpose this time. Thinking back to his tragic early years in the slums of Absolom which somehow snowballed to several terrible years spent incarcerated. Night after night in that terrible cell just dreaming of exploring the wonders of the world and how he resolved to one day be exactly where he is now.
He steps up to the smiling leader of the Horizon hunters takes yet another drink from her large hands and finally manages to speak up
"Heyo, uh, greetings Calisro, it be an 'onor to meet ya." Roddy scratches the back of his neck nervously "I am Randolphis Bonfiglio, a greenhorn initiate, and I guess you can say I've spent a long time trying to get here."
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Elfino watches the diminutive monk work his was through the crowd toward Calisro Benarry before deciding to take a long detour around the room and attempting the approach again. He smiles to himself, remembering when he too met his faction leader for the first time as a nervous initiate at an event not much different from this one.
With a mischievous smile, he says, "Our new friend seems a little nervous at meetin' one of our faction leaders. I tink we should join 'im n see 'ow it goes."
Without further ado, Elfino moves quickly through the crowd after him. Along the way, he deftly snags a cup of punch off one of the tables and times his approach so that he ends up right behind Roddy just as the halfling reaches Calisro. Sipping his drink, he looks on quietly in mild amusement as the monk makes his pitch.
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"Hmp. We'll get to Aaquir al-Hakam and Mr. Shane eventually." Shrugging at Apollo, she hobbles after Elfino. As she walks, she accidentally sets her cane down on a hapless bystander's foot. With a normal cane it would be bad enough, but the extra weight of her cane certainly causes an outcry. "Oh! So sorry! Are you all right?" After ensuring that they'll be okay, she continues on, arriving late to the conversation. Hmp. Missed the start. As always. Cursed hip.
As you approach Calisro Benarry, you can see that she is currently engaged in a conversation with Aaqir al-Hakam.
Calisro: "I get what you're saying, Aaqir, but I don't have many ships willing to risk the trip across Lake Encarthan." she says.
Aaqir: "But think of the profits! No one is willing to risk facilitating trade between Caliphas, Kerse, Tamran, and Thronestep. That's four cities willing to line our pockets!" he replies.
Calisro mutters back, "Probably for good reason...".
Noticing Roddy, she quickly switches her attention away from Aaqir for a moment, "Ah, new blood in the waters! How'd you like a mission right here in Absalom? I'll even spice up your drinks in addition to the bounty I be paying for the errand."
She leans in close, "And if you can get Aaqir to move on, that'd be mighty fine too."
Aaqir tries to butt in, "Ok, ok, but what about trade caravans to Rahadoum?"
Aaqir will also respond to Society, Guild Lore, or Mercantile Lore. Aaqir makes his living through a global trade network and perks up to hear about business opportunities, trading partners, and the like.
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Standing on the chair, Apollo spies Aaqir al-Hakam speaking with Calisro Ben-arrr-y. The halfling excitedly hops down, quickly stows his tools of the trade, and hurries over just as the group begins chatting with the pirate captain.
Realizing Benarry could use a distraction, Apollo whispers to the group, "As I mentioned before, Aaqir is a merchant, so we can keep him busy with talk of Society, Mercantile Lore, or Guild Lore."
Apollo then turns to the merchant. "So it is you! Aqir al-Hakam in the flesh. It's an honor." The oracle bows and says, "I'm Apollo Fireborn. I'm an avid student of the occult and a collector of oddities and antiques. Did I hear you mention traveling across Lake Encarthan for trade? An inspired idea. Although..." Apollo looks around to make sure they're not being overheard, and continues to Aqir in a low voice, "...I've heard fascinating tales about undead inhabitants on the Isle of Terror in that lake. Have you heard similar stories?" Apollo looks up and eagerly awaits his response.
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Elfino doesn't have time to make a proper study of Aaqir al'Hakam to make an educated guess as to his weaknesses, but Apollo's approach seems solid, so he rolls with it. "Aye, indeed I 'ave 'eard such tales, Apollo. De undead are not known fer bein' strong swimmers, but dat's in fact not de case. I've 'eard stories of zombie crews of wessels dat foundered in de lake, swimmin' out from de depths n swarmin' aboard unwary ships. Den dere are rumors of giant skeletal fish rammin' n 'olin' boats, sendin' dem n deir contents ta de bottom. I 'ave not independently verified any of dese reports, but if I were a mercantile-minded fellow, I would definitely keep ma boats close ta de coastline." He then pauses for effect before appearing to remember something important. "Oh, n I would probably avoid Tronestep; dose Razmiri are insane."
Aaqir seems to be just ever so slightly interested enough in Elfino and Apollo, "Well of course there are undead on the Isle of Terror. Did you miss attack Tar-Baphon launched on Absalom? He had to retreat back to his Isle after our agents sent him packing." he says to Apollo.
"Ah yes, this agent knows what's what. Here's the thing, the more dangerous the route, the more lucrative the profits are." he says with a sly smile to Elfino.
Calisro turns away from Aaqir and towards the rest of the party, "Listen, there's a wrecked ship in the Floatsam Graveyard that might date back to the Silent Tide invasion. I can't confirm the stories as the people that told me about it said there was some kind of monster on board. If you could at least date the ship for me, it would help the higherups decide the importance of investigating further." she says before leaning in close again. "If you return on ship in style, maybe some kind of grand entrance, I'm sure that will go over well."
She reaches into her coat pocket and pulls out a hip flask filled with a red liquid, "Here's a pick-me-up for when you really need to get back on your feet."
Apollo, Elfino, and Itka recognize this liquid as a lesser healing potion.
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Roddy was so focused on his introduction, he barely realized he wasn't alone in front of Calisro till now. He is relieved and gives a nod of thanks to the fortune teller and red eyed Elf who so naturally pull the talkative man from Calisro's side. He will admonish himself for his lack of awareness later.
"Aye, aye Captain Calisro, Truth be told I am anxious to take my first mission outside of Absalom an spend some time on the road, but this seems to me a fine starting point here in the Society!" He takes the flask of mystery liquid she offers and lifts the goblet of punch he holds in his other hand in a salute of sorts. He turns to look at the faces around him
Roddy has very little experience ships other than sneaking on and off them quietly while they are moored. Hopefully he can learn a thing or two from these other initiates who seem interested.
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Elfino eyes the healing potion a little enviously. It was a fine gift from the faction leader. He hoped it wasn't an indication of the degree of difficulty they would encounter on the shipwreck they'd be investigating.
"Dat went well. Shall we approach one of de other dignitaries ta see whut goodies dey're willin' ta part with?" The question was apparently rhetorical, because Elfino immediately turns, catches sight of Eando Kline, and continues. "Ah, dere is de Vigilant Seal faction leader, Eando Kline. 'E'll do. Who wants ta approach 'im dis time?" He looks at the others, and then pointedly at Itka. "Aren't ya in de Vigilant Seal, Itka? Maybe ya could make de introductions. I suspect 'e 'as summit 'e'll want us ta protect, contain, n destroy, eh?" He winks at the witch knowingly.
You easily find Eando Kline amongst the crowd. He is currently engaged in a conversation with a dark-haired Taldane woman.
You believe this woman to be Gloriana Morilla. She long led the Sovereign Court, an international organization supporting young nobles across Avistan. Because of her heavy involvement in international diplomacy, Gloriana appreciates those who understand the nuances of her work. She loves the city of Oppara.
You believe this woman to be Gloriana Morilla. She long led the Sovereign Court, an international organization supporting young nobles across Avistan. Because of her heavy involvement in international diplomacy, Gloriana appreciates those who understand the nuances of her work. She loves the city of Oppara.
You believe this woman to be Gloriana Morilla. She long led the Sovereign Court, an international organization supporting young nobles across Avistan. Because of her heavy involvement in international diplomacy, Gloriana appreciates those who understand the nuances of her work. She loves the city of Oppara.
You believe this woman to be Gloriana Morilla. Once known for hedonism, was betrayed by her country, receiving official condemnation based on false charges. She has accepted a new position as Head Archivist, granting her official authority over the contents and security of the Grand Lodge’s extensive troves of knowledge and magic.
Eando: "It's great to see you here. I hope you're enjoying your new position?" Eando asks the woman.
Woman: "Of course! The society is a wonderful organization, and while it isn't quite the same as the game I played back home, my skills are still being put to good use with the movers and shakers." she replies.
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"Ah, dere is de Vigilant Seal faction leader, Eando Kline. 'E'll do. Who wants ta approach 'im dis time?" He looks at the others, and then pointedly at Itka. "Aren't ya in de Vigilant Seal, Itka? Maybe ya could make de introductions. I suspect 'e 'as summit 'e'll want us ta protect, contain, n destroy, eh?" He winks at the witch knowingly.
"Hmp. Yes. I do have a way with people." Itka replies wryly. Limping over to Eando Kline, she is much more careful of her cane's placement this time. Not having to hustle to keep up or catch up with others definitely helps. Upon her arrival, she bobs her head in respect. "Eando Kline. I'm Itka Biklest, a member of your faction. And you ma'am, I don't believe we've met." Feeling awkward because she ought to introduce the whole group of initiates but doesn't know everyone's names yet, Itka dithers unproductively on whether or not to introduce the ones she does.
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Apollo follows Itka over to Eando Kline, leaving a light trail of wafting smoke behind. When he hears the Taldane woman talk about her skills dealing with movers and shakers, the fortune-teller's eyes light up.
Realizing that Itka probably needs to get Eando alone for a possible mission, Apollo introduces himself to the woman. "Madame, so you are a people-person too? I'm Apollo. When I'm not pathfinding, one of my hobbies is fortune-telling, where I meet all kinds of people. I'm sure you have incredible stories of your negotiating skills. What was one of your proudest achievements?" He appears genuinely interested in picking up any tips.
Glorina seems interested in Apollo but tries to return to her conversation with Eando smoothly, "I think my proudest achievement was leading the Sovereign Court, of course! Anyway, Eando, I may need some of your agents' help settling a... delicate matter."
Eando replies to Glorina, "Just a moment, I have use of these new agents." he says before returning to you.
"Some time ago, someone revealed a possible threat to Absalom related to one of the siege castles. However, that individual was petrified during the Charge of the Gorgon. I suspect foul play. If you could do me a favor and head down to Westgate, I'll give you a writ of permission and a slave of antiparalysis to free this individual." he informs you.
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Elfino raises his eyebrow at the mention of the Charge of the Gorgon, but nobody notices; his eyebrows were pretty much the same color as his skin. Being an Absalom native, he was quite familiar with the rather macabre local tradition and the resulting well-executed sculptures it left behind on Statue Street.
He raises his other eyebrow when Eando says that he'll give them a Salve of Antiparalysis to counter the petrification of one of the stone criminals. A jar of that stuff was worth a pretty penny on the open market... assuming you could even find one to buy. Too bad Elfino was a Pathfinder now. In his younger days he wouldn't have thought twice about taking off with such an item if it had fallen into his hands.
Janira rejoins you with a slice of cake being held simply in her hands, "Need any help? If not, you should really try this cake."
She notices the conversation between Apollo and Glorina, with the latter trying to occupy Eando's time. She whispers to the rest of you, "If you want to keep Glorina busy, talk about performances or other cultures and cities, she loves that stuff. If you can talk about Oppara, even better.".
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Despite the great distance between them, Elfino leans over to close the gap in an attempt to catch whatever the halfling Janira was whispering about. "Ah, Oppara." He remembers now that Gloriana was the Taldan leader of the Sovereign Court, and a big fan of it's capital city, Oppara.
Elfino racks his brain for something - anything - to say about Oppara. Finally, a tidbit of interesting news he'd heard recently about the city comes to him. Without thinking it through thoroughly, he blurts out, "Speakin' of Oppara. I recently 'eard dat Taldan thieves 'ave been usin' Aklys' ta brin' down deir marks. Fascinatin' weapon dat. It's basically a club, but 'as a 'ook on one end n a long length of rope tied ta de other. Ya throw it like dis...," he makes a whirling arm motion, "...n it flies off n wraps itself around de legs..."
"uh... of de... um, escapin' victim n..." His voice falters at the end as he notices the looks on the faces around him. Apparently Gloriana was not a big fan of everything about her precious Oppara after all.
To cover his embarrassment, he turns back to the halfling. "So de cake is good is it, Janira? I think now's a good time ta get maself some."
Glorina seems just ever so slightly interested in Elfino's words, "Yes, yes Taldan thieves and their Aklys" she says waving her hand, "But what's this about cake?"
Most of you accept Eando's mission and move on to meet with Fola Barun, the dark-skinned elf that leads the Envoy's Alliance. Currently, she is engaged in conversation with Kreighton Shane.
Seeing you approach, Fola smiles and seems rather excited, "Oh hello, my young agents! Are you enjoying your time meeting with the various leaders? Perhaps you need another challenge to promote your growth?"
Kreighton butts in, "A challenge? Hmm, I know all about riddles. Answer me this Fola, I speak without a mouth and hear without ears. I have no body, but I come alive with wind. What am I?"
Fola smiles at Kreighton, "Well agents, maybe you can answer Kreighton's riddle?"
Janira seems to have overheard the riddle, "I bet it's a leaf!" she says before whispering to the rest of you, "Think of any lore you know and use it to distract Kreighton!"
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Roddy watches all of this interaction with Glorina in minor confusion as he came in at the end of the conversation. holding his fourth Goblet of punch in one hand and following Janira's lead holding a large slice of cake in his other hand.
Having just taken a large bite he uses the back of his goblet hand to wipe the crumbs off his moustache before adding to Elfino "Aye I've heard bout that Aklys, I've made something similar once and found it useful in a pinch." He turns to Glorina and cluelessly adds, "Oh is the city of Oparra where you hail from? I 'eard that its a exquisite city and one I'd very much like to visit. Just a damn shame how they wronged you"
He turns to Elfin at his cake question, though it wasn't targeted to him "Oh yes this cake is tasty!"
He turns back to Glorina and he realizes he has never been more out of his depth. She is so tall, beautiful and stands so confidently, so regal and he suddenly feels very silly with crumbs all over his vest. Out of nowhere he adds very blunderishly "Uh, my Lady"
Glorina looks a bit puzzled by Roddy's statement, but smiles when he mentions that the cake is tasty, "Lead the way to this 'tasty cake.'"
Eando looks proudly at the abilities of the new agents, "I see you're skilled with words as well as you likely are with combat. If you need information in Absalom, talk to these people." he says as he hands you a list of names.
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Apollo wants to introduce the others to his own faction leader, Gorm Greathammer, but can't seem to find him in the crowd. As he's looking for another chair to stand on, he sees the group heading to Fola Barun.
When Kreighton Shane offers them the riddle, Apollo guesses, "A mirror?" He quickly explains, "The image within seems to speak and hear, but it doesn't have actual eyes or ears or humanoid body itself." After a moment, he adds, "Hmm...not sure about the wind thing though." He frowns.
After waiting to hear the answer, Apollo offers, "Mr. Shane, you're clearly a fan of riddles and the occult. Allow me to do a reading." The fortune-teller excitedly pulls out his crystal ball. He gestures and casts Prestidigitation to make the orb levitate, and he peers inside.
Apollo stammers, "As ... as you can see ... the art of fortune-telling is 50% occultism and ... well... 50% showmanship. But I don't have to tell you." The poor halfling is clearly a little flustered in the presence of top faction leaders.
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"Ah, I see our Master of Scrolls is up to his usual antics." Elfino is pretty sure that as is the way of such things, Kreighton's riddle was meant to be taken figuratively and not literally. Regardless, the only things matching the Venture-Captain's riddle that immediately came to mind were literal creatures. He thinks back to the mission he and Itka had been on these many months ago.
"I'm prolly wrong, but wouldn't a ghost fit de clues? Dey're incorporeal, so they dunna 'ave a body, mouth nor ears in de traditional sense, but dey still seem ta be able ta 'ear n speak without too much trouble." He pauses to consider further. "N dough dey are clearly able ta fly about in de wind, I'm not shur dat, bein' undead n all, dey can akshually come alive in it."
"Den again, it could be a phantom of some sort. I understand dat dey use telepathy ta communicate, thus precludin' de need fer a mouth." Elfino appears to come out of his reverie and makes a show of realizing who he's talking to. "But of course ya already know all about such things Master Shaine. Doubtless ya can come up with any numba of such spiritual examples dat would fit de clues." Elfino gives his fellow elf an expectant look, hoping to engage him in a discussion of spirits and thus distract him from the faction leader.
Fola smiles a bit as you all try to piece together the riddle, "Well, in other news, I do have an important errand I could use your help with. One of our new recruits had a relative that snuck into a haunted house right here in Absalom. Unfortunately, that person died, and I promised the agent that I would find someone to put their body to rest." she says as her demeanor shifts to dour. "There's one problem, the house is supposed to be destroyed this week! If you can make it there, the person you're looking for was a follower of Pharasma and wore their holy symbol as a necklace."
Kreighton interrupts, "I see I've stumped even you, Fola! Hehehe! Perhaps, my old student, Janira, could solve this riddle for all of you...if you give up, that is." he says with a sly smile.
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"A River? oh no no.... the wind? no mouth eh....a flute?"
Roddy turns his attention from the silly riddle to the requested task.
"oh so a real haunted house eh? Well is they definitely dead? Maybe they got spooked enough to just run outa Absalom? I guess going in to see what happened will give us these answers."
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"Oooo,ooooo, me, I know, me, down here," the blue skinned goblins arm shot up as if it was going to detach itself from the rest of Veecs, his normally squinty eyes open wide like a dog begging for scraps. "It is a SHADOW!" he blurts out quickly before reversing course, "wait no it's an echo, shadow... what a dumb answer, echo definitely echo..."
Fola replies to Roddy, "Well, there have been a number of people that have been injured or even died there. It may be haunted or it may just be dangerous, it's almost impossible to know without investigating yourselves. Good luck and thank you for taking the time to check it out!"
Krighton smiles at Veecs' answer, "You're right, it's an echo!" he says before adding, "Unless it's inside an Emergency Force Sphere, and then its the dome itself maybe." he says as he gets lost in thought.
After receiving well wishes from Fola, you look for Gorm in the crowd. He is currently playing his lute for the crowd but puts it away when Tamrin, a halfling man with brown hair, comes up to talk to him.
"Gorm, can you supply any agents for a mission in Cheliax? I need some Pathfinders that can handle Devils and guards, either with lies, discreetness, or with their connections to the Celiaxian underground." Tamrin says to Gorm.
"I can check my roster, but don't you still have your own agents? It's no secret that Liberty's Edge operated mostly independently from the Society and still does to this day." Gorm replies.
"Yes, but I'm a little short-staffed after Tar-Baphon reared his ugly head and invaded Absalom. You know how many agents I lost?" he says with a bit of anger.
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At the mention of a possible haunted house, Apollo becomes very interested and actually takes notes. He's keen to try that one first.
When the group finds Gorm Greathammer, Apollo is excited to introduce him to the group. Not realizing Gorm is in conversation with Tamrin, Apollo confidently strides up to the dwarf and halfling, and starts saying, "And everyone, this is my faction leader, the wise Gorm Greathammer of the Grand Arch..." Only then does he realize he's interrupted their conversation, and he stops abruptly.
Apollo bows and says, "My apologies." Turning to Tamrin, he switches to the halfling tongue and says, "I'm sorry. We'll wait."
When he hears the two men discussing Liberty's Edge and Cheliax, Apollo can't help himself. "I can't believe that the slave trade is still going so strong in Cheliax. I'd be interested in volunteering for such an assignment." Turning to Tamrin, he asks, "Can you tell me more about what you have in mind with regarding infiltrating the slave traders?" He intentionally moves directly between Tamrin and Gorm to allow the others to greet his faction leader.
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Elfino overhears Tamrin ("what is it with all the halflings today?") talking to Gorm as they approach. "Well, at least this is something more up my alley," he thinks to himself. When Apollo tries to cut Tamrin away from Gorm, Elfino slides in beside him to create a wider obstacle.
"I couldna 'elp overhearin' dat ya were lookin' fer agents fer a mission in Cheliax. I'd offer ma own services, but it looks like I'll be busy in Absalom on Pathfinder business fer a while." He rolls his eyes and jabs his thumb over his shoulder to indicate all the faction leaders behind him. "Nevertheless, ma personal smugg..., uh, I mean import/export company does lotsa business in Cheliax n ma accompl..., um, I mean associates dere could be of assistance ta ya... fer a price of course."
He eyes Tamrin to see if there is any interest in his offer, and seeing some uncertainty in the halfling's eyes, continues. "I asshur ya dat dey are very professional individuals with much experience in de quick n discreet transportation of livin' cargo. Why, one time we did a job in Xin-Edasseril dat involved facilitatin' de emigration of a numba of refugees, includin' a giant - I kid ya not - right out from under de noses of de border guards!..."
Elfino then launches into a long detailed description of the operation and his not insubstantial part in it; leaving nothing out.