Shayna forcefully sends a rock into... its other rocks. Rose glares at it (which it certainly notices in its final moments) and fires into it removing more chunks of stone and earth. Tarkii's skeleton and the ratfolk himself induce deep horrors in a mephit that would otherwise not know them! Finally Merian sends a flaming trident into the last scrap of its being. Its body bursts into a bright inferno, and she has to shake the remains of its body off of her polearm. After, there is little left that is recognizable.
The party combined eviscerates the earth mephit.
Wow! Lashweather exclaims. I'm going to be able to finish the attunement uninterrupted!
By this point, Lashweather is completely heads down in his attunement and doesn't even look up when the final two elementals appear. The party dispenses of them before they can even gain their bearings in this plane.
Moments later Lashweather steps away from his previously intense proceedings. It seems his attunement was successful! He explains that he should have no trouble completing the rest of the ritual over the coming hours, and he agrees to attend the council meeting tomorrow and speak on your behalf.
Just before you leave, he offers you a ventriloquist’s ring as thanks for your assistance.
You all return back to the makeshift lodge and report on your success. Eras instructs you to rest for the evening and return the next day.
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The next day, Calisro and Eras, along with the rest of the Vidrian delegation, lead you to the Chamber of Stars, the meeting space of Ekkeshikaar’s ruling council, where the possibility of a trade agreement will be discussed.
The heart of a sprawling and partially-submerged government building made of glass and stone, this large circular chamber is one of the few parts of the building that extends up above the waterline, giving an only slightly-obscured view of the sky above through the midnight-blue-tinted glass dome that covers the room’s ceiling.
A group of seven iruxi dressed in long blue-black robes trimmed with gold sit at raised pulpits along one side of the room. A long table has been set aside for a handful of representatives from the Vidrian delegation, and additional seating holds crowds of native iruxi, some eager to see the trade deal pass, others to see it halted, and the rest simply excited to watch events unfold. Already, a queue of Ekkeshikaar’s citizens is forming behind a stone lectern set aside for citizens to speak their minds and ask questions on the proceedings.
You are led up to the table, seated alongside Calisro, Eras, Mirian Raas, and Jekka. Mirian explains that you will be among the delegation members answering questions and arguing your case before the council and the people of Ekkeshikaar.
Calisro hands you four vials, containing a total of two doses of moderate cognitive mutagen and two doses of moderate silvertongue mutagen, explaining that they may come in handy, and that you should use them amongst themselves as they see fit.
As the negotiations proceed, there are times at which doubts are raised by citizens that Eras and Calriso look to all of you to address.
Opposing iruxi make the argument that because the original contract with the people of Vidrian (formerly Sargava) was broken, that Ekkeshikaar would be foolish to open into another agreement, or at the very least, should not do so until appropriate fees have been paid for the time during which they were in breach of contract—well over a thousand years’ worth!
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Tarkii notes "Yes... the agreement. It was with Sargava. Just as Vidrian doesn't recognize Sargava's debts, it makes them unable to collect to debts to Sargava as well. Even if they did try and collect, a strongly worded letter that the debts are to Cheliax, care of Vidrian would likely dispell any further attempts to collect."
A success earns the PCs 1 Influence Point and a critical success earns them 2 Influence Points, while a critical failure removes 1 Influence Point. As long as the PCs earn more Influence Points than half the number of PCs on a given challenge, they succeed at that challenge.
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Rose after a moment stands up again
"I am sorry, I must have lost the meaning in translation. What I meant to say is that we shouldn't assume and agreement ot last thousands of years. The sins of fathers should not be passed down from generation to generation. At some point we should show maturity to start fresh, without the backage of the past."
The iruxi council seems overly confused at first in hearing Shayna's suggestion to "let things slide." It's not that they seem offended or indignant, it is simply a foreign idea to them and you can tell they consider it at length. So deeply so, that hardly any of them notice Rose's outburst... at first.
Strongly worded letter? One of the council chuckles at Tarkii's suggestion.
If that worked much suffering under the hands of your warmbloods' Cheliax could have been avoided. If only it were so simple.... While not taken seriously, the suggestion seems to have done no harm.
Many now refocus on Rose as she speaks up again. Hmm, agreements are important. Even over the expanse of time. However... much time has passed and it is true the nation from which the agreement was struck no longer exists. Perhaps we are holding to tightly to tenuous threads...
Merian's words seem to push them further and squarely into your corner on this angle of thought. Many council members nod agreeably with looks of admittance of her point as a truth.
Yes... the changes in those lands is certainly a strong current. Strong enough to flush out the imperialism of Cheliax. That must be appreciated!
----------------
Still... currents do not always flow in the direction you expect or want...
Doubts are raised about how long Vidrian will remain free. The iruxi voice concerns that those who ruled there previously may return and try to subjugate them again. They wonder if Vidrian can maintain its independence, or if this trade agreement will lead to Ekkeshikaar being dragged into a war it neither wants nor needs.
Kesstraka seems to perk up when this topic arises.
Tarkoo notes "Strength... yes. You know what will keep Vidrian independent? The same thing that will keep you independent. Strong trade with strong partners. Don't.. Don't create your own slow doom by hiding."
Perhaps... strong trade is but one tool in the connections between peoples. The iruxi council wavers, but only very briefly.
"What do the stars tell you?! We spent all this effort defending Kesstraka while they scoured the stars! I'm no astrologer, but I see an Ekkeshikaar that is strong enough to hold its own even if its allies are in danger."
Kesstraka smiles and pats Merian on the shoulder, whispering to her from behind.
Now you are speaking their language.
Her support seems to visibly energize them!
Trying to tie into what she said earlier... "Well, if the trade agreement is worth their while. You'll just need to keep the pot sweet enough that they don't turn away, if you get my meaning"
Shayna notes that her audience doesn't seem to buy what she's saying...
They aren't rejecting it either. While our aim isn't to lure our trade partners in such a way, we do see the value in maintaining connections.
Rose raises and backs-up Shayna and Tarkii "You should send bold message to the world, a message that you are not afraid. You should be calling the shots and not hiding!"
Perhaps we ought to lend some strength to the free peoples of this region... should Cheliax come wandering through again for easy pickings..
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The iruxi point out that should trade be resumed, there would be certain tariffs and taxes they would need to put in place, which have arisen since the days of the prior agreement. These fees are steep, and they would certainly reduce the profitability of trade for both sides, if you can’t find a way around them.
"Taxes... there are usually ways around that, especially when you talk to the right people."
Some amongst the council frown deeply. If we were suggesting something cheatable, what would be the point?
"Taxes are always reduce profitability, but re-investing taxes into things that grow trade will offset the cost. Perhaps you could build a nice underwater harbor to increase trade with underwater peoples, for instance ..."
Now that is an outstanding idea. But we are glad to hear you appreciate contributions to infrastructure from those who benefit from it.
The leshy adds “Another way would be a trade agreement that would lower taxes for specific items or services you intend on exchanging.”
The iruxi council is open-minded, but they seem dubious on this point.
Hmm. We don't want to create weak spots in the agreement that could be exploited for imbalance. Let's see what goods are prevalent in trade early on before we jump to such decisions.
Tarkii chitters "Taxes.. even if they eat into the trade there are always ways. ways around them. Trade different things, better things, the best things!"
Now, goods in place of some taxes is a sensible compromise. Flexibility can encourage the successful of a strategy!
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Opponents of the trade deal argue that Ekkeshikaar is dependent upon Droon, a much larger empire to the South, for many resources. They worry that this trade deal might upset Droon and worsen relations with them, resulting in worse overall economic conditions for Ekkeshikaar.
Kesstraka again takes interest in this topic and steps forward to join all of you.
"I meant no disrespect. I was merely speaking from experience. Corrupt officials tend to try to 'tax' everyone; even those who legitimately pay their taxes."
Kesstraka laughs nervously, stepping forward. But obviously that's not a concern right now. We're just a people trying to protect our culture and fuel our progress...
She flashes Shayna a quick grimaced look.
Tarkii once again tries kind words "Droon should be excited for your prosperity. They'd much rather trade with you, than a puppet of Cheliax. Even if it reduces their profitability in the short term, surely they must see that a strong Ekkeshikaar is good for Droon."
"You should flip it to your advantage, this agreement will allow Droon also to do trade. This is an opportunity!"
The council is bolstered by the encouraging depiction of their long-term prospects.
Hmm, perhaps you are right. They should understand that in the long run they benefit more from keeping trade flowing.
"You're worried about Droon? Then why don't you invite them to join the talk! We're here now, if you're not here to deal with matters between us, then perhaps we should leave."
Kesstraka quickly rushes Merian several steps back, loudly declaring to the council Haha, she is just joking! I think everyone here understands the benefits of completing these negotiations first.
Rannarix seems emboldened by Merian to do some mouthing off of his own. Yeah! We don't need to be here if Droon is so important.
Kesstraka seems like she's ready to faint as she aggressively pulls the kobold back to have a chat with him and Merian. She whispers to both of them but her hurried chiding seems to echo more widely in the chamber than she intends.
You're so close! Don't be rash in this moment. The stars tell me your clarity of thought will win the day if you employ it instead of emotion!
One thing the council does seem encouraged by is the fact that Kesstraka trusts you so well.
The iruxi council bristles at the sudden show of frustration. Kesstraka puts her head in her hands for a moment, coming to terms with this turn of negotiations.
----------------
The iruxi point out that much of what they used to receive from the people of Vidrian years ago is of little value to the iruxi now. They point out that Ekkeshikaar wants for little and has thrived without any assistance from up north. They ask what exactly Vidrian has to offer them that they would want.
Kesstraka speaks in a low voice to all of you.
I think this is our last opportunity. Let us make the most of it!
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"Vidrian is well versed in the navigation, both of the high seas and the inland areas. By your own accounts, you're inexperienced in trading beyond the shore. Although a lot of these-"
Merian looks around cautiously.
"-landlubbers do live by the shore, if you want your trade to have full effect, you're going to have to wander places where it's difficult for you to go."
Merian jabs a thumb over her shoulder at a large barrel of seawater in the corner.
"Sometimes, it's not so easy."
The iruxi of the council begin to be swayed by Merian's reasoning, potentially self-conscious of their overseas trading limitations. As further arguments proceed, they seem less and less convinced on the broad point. The additional arguments only serve to give them time to come down from the scintillating opener.
We don't really think they're going to produce anything that is particularly unique to us...
The council concludes the negotiations and the result is now out of your hands. They circle up to hold a vote.
Will the trade agreement be ratified?
One by one their hands go up in the affirmative. Not quite all but a robust majority that is undeniable.
Congratulations Pathfinders. With your perspective we ratify these agreements. May our dealings with Vidrian be prosperous.
Kesstraka smiles warmly at all of you and offers congratulations. Meanwhile Calisro and Eras are clearly equal parts relieved and proud. Through beaming smiles they thank you for your effective efforts and invite you back to the makeshift lodge for drinks to celebrate before your journey home.
~~FIN~~
The Pathfinders convene around the massive hearth fire in the center of the fledgling Port Valen lodge.
Venture-Captain Bjersig Torrsen approaches them with his dog Mahki, his scribe/interpreter Lirall, and Rahaksenwe, a representative serving on the local coalition known as the Shore Council.
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Rangi is old, his body is wrapped now in long thick coat, under which he wears a hide armor. On his back he has a shield from exotic wood and a bastard sword. His face and arms are covered with scars. He traveled by sea to the port and now the old one sits close to the fire and looking into the flames. Despite him seating one can clearly see that he is a tall orc.
When Mahki enters Rangi smells the air trying to sense how the doog feels. He is a druid after all, interacting with animals and understanding them is what he does...
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Appearing via the Maze of the Open Road Samantha shakes the stiffness from her limbs, and removes her helmet revealing a frilled Iruxi with dark tips her frills. A slit in the back of the helmet seems designed to accommodate them.
"Samantha" declares the heavily armed Iruxi as she looks around to see if she recognizes any of her companions.
It seems to go without saying that Samantha is clearly a dangerous swordmaster.
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A tall, slightly awkward Garundi man appears. His hair and beard both seem "wispy", perhaps a little unkempt. His dark brown eyes are eerily almost completely black. As he strode you could hear the clattering of glass and other vials concealed in the inside pockets of his long, dark green coat.
He gives Rangi a nod of recognition. Those who know him are used to his reticence, and can avoid confusing it for rudeness.
Gr-greetings Venture Captain Torrsen!
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A familiar figure appears behind Samantha via the Maze of the Open Road. "That is a profoundly strange experience. The only other experience that comes close is being in someone else's head." ()
"Well met, again, Elsha and Rangi! It appears we have new companions. Greetings, fellow Pathfinders. I am Loong Laohu, but you may call me 'Tiger'."
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Gr-greetings Venture Captain Torrsen!
The Venture Captain is facing away from Elsha at first, and does not acknowledge his words. Then, Lirall taps him on the shoulder, and passes on Elsha's greeting in Bjersig's primary language, Taldane sign language.
Venture-Captain Bjersig Torrsen’s big, toothy grin takes over his face, and his oversized gestures convey his excitement. “Welcome to the far side of the map! I don’t know what I was expecting to find here, but it sure wasn’t the hospitality that the locals have shown us. I mean, just look at this new lodge! It’s like we never left home!"
"Speaking of leaving home, we’ve worked alongside Rahaksenwe and other Port Valen leaders to link this lodge to the Maze of the Open Road. They helped us set up the portal so that future Pathfinders won’t need to cross monster-infested waters to get here like we had to."
Somewhere in the vastness of the Arcadian Ocean, Merian rolls her eyes. Sure, there are some monsters, but there are some really nice people too.
"That help wasn’t free, though.”
Rahaksenwe nods and explains, “[b]The portal could not have been completed without the blessing of Viltydus, the fey guardian who guides travelers through the Forest of Trials. Viltydus has a keen eye for heroic potential, and their one condition for building and maintaining the portal is that Pathfinder agents must assist them regularly to foster greatness in this region. That’s why you’re here: to hold up your end of that bargain.”
Torrsen jumps back in. “So, wash up, get what you need from the quartermaster, and follow the footpath just outside the town gate right to the stump at the edge of the forest. Viltydus will meet you there—somehow, they can always sense when Pathfinders are on the way! Any questions?”
"What do we know of this Viltydus?
Rahaksenwe responds, “Viltydus is a crossroads guardian, a fey created to serve a primal purpose. Theirs is to help travelers who are called to Valenhall safely navigate the Forest of Trials. Around here, we deeply respect Viltydus’s work. They have been a mentor and protective spirit for generations of us.”
Gr-greatness? What do they usually have in mind?! Do you f-find this "Viltydus" to be particularly cruel or tricky?
"Greatness? What must we do to foster greatness? I hope it is not anything illicit..."
Rahaksenwe replies, “Of course there won't be anything cruel or illegal. Viltydus will provide details once you meet with them. They care deeply about legendary exploits, so your tasks won’t be chopping wood or other mundane work. I doubt you’d have made it this far if you didn’t have the skills to handle whatever Viltydus needs, though.”
Are we the first one to provide that support, or did it happen in the past? "
"What happened on these shores in the legends is lost to the mists of time, but you are the first in my lifetime."
Last year, a Pathfinder expedition crossed the ocean to the seaside Arcadian town of Port Valen, a waystation on the path to Valenhall, and
established a new lodge in the former feasting hall of King Sveinn Blood-Eagle—where this meeting is taking place!
Critical Success:
Once the Pathfinders are ready, they can travel a short distance beyond Port Valen’s borders toward the forest. A massive stump eight feet in diameter sits at the edge of the wood, and all the surrounding plants and earth seem to direct their focus toward it.
A lithe Mahwek individual stands atop a giant stump, their average height magnified by an awesome presence of personality. Their fingers, lips, ears, eyebrows, and nostrils are richly adorned with dozens of rings, each one made of a different material and etched with varying pictograms and sigils. They speak with a voice like wind in the canopy. “The portal already beckons souls destined for greatness! Welcome, Pathfinders, to the Forest of Trials, a noteworthy juncture in your travels across this vast, beautiful world.”
Viltydus greets each of the Pathfinders by name and recites a list of all the missions they have been sent on, congratulating them for a job well done.
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"Valenhall is a legendary warrior’s paradise glorified in Ulfen fables, able to be found only by those beckoned to it by a mythical call. Scholars disagree as to whether it’s a real place or an aspirational metaphor, a mystery the Pathfinder Society hopes to solve."
Rangi pauses for a moment
"Maybe if we die here, one of us will learn the truth"
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He looks at the being
"I do hope that we will not dissapoint you then. I am Rangi and we were send to participate in your trials. Can you tell us about them?"