Having answered an urgent call to Magnimar from Pathfinder Society Venture Captain, , you have courteously rushed to Heidmarch Manor in Magnimar's Alabaster District.
Upon arriving, you were immediately ushered from the Pathfinder's "Meeting House" (where one usually prepares expeditions for the Pathfinder Society), straight to Sheila Heidmarch's personal office suite -- encircled by a Mage's Private Sanctum. You see Sheila Heidmarch, her husband Sir Canayven, and a few other Pathfinders you recognize as equal to your prestige within The Society. Apparently you were not the first to arrive to this request.
"Thank you for coming so hurriedly -- though I know your experience has taught you that when The Pathfinder Society needs some urgent quest, you are among the elite we must call to get it done right." You can tell Sheila Heidmarch has already briefed the other visitors one by one, not waiting for everyone to arrive, in order to expedite this quest.
"Two nights ago I received a magical Dream. Apparently a certain in Korvosa was terribly concerned about a man accused of being a serial killer. Mister Refrum believes this man is innocent of committing a series of grisly murders, and as such went to his friend, a Paladin and former Pathfinder, in the hopes of proving the man's innocence.
"The Paladin, with his friend Mister Refrum, learned some disturbing news. It worried them such enough to pay a third person in Korvosa to contact me via a Dream spell -- two nights ago -- in the hope that the Pathfinder Society would get involved. Thus, yesterday morning when I awoke I began some research. I used the resources here, a Scroll of Contact other Plane, several Sending spells to The Grand Lodge in Absalom, plus Auguries and Divinations by a Pathfinder Priest of Zohls here in Magnimar. This is what I've learned, and why I contacted you to come posthaste.
"The 'innocent' man is a simple Korvosan fisherman named . Fishing in Conqueror's Bay his net inadvertently dragged up a Devilish Relic from the sea floor. That Relic has possessed poor Jarme Loveage and is forcing him to all manner of depravity. The wretched fisherman is hiding out in the poorest slums of Korvosa, the islet nicknamed ‘The Styes’ by local Korvosans. There he is fully under the domination of the Devilish Relic. The Paladin friend of Mister Refrum, a former Pathfinder named , has not been able to locate him.
"For the Pathfinder Society, we would like that Relic. More importantly, were that Relic to fall into the wrong hands -- the hands of any one of a hundred devil-worshipping villains in Korvosa,… or The Darklight Sisterhood, or The Aspis Consortium, or the Temple of Asmodeus, or The Academae, (You get the idea) it could be used for Evil ends.
"If you aren't aware, a Relic is a powerful magical curio that gets more powerful the longer it stays with one person, with its own personality, almost, and is somewhat like a cross between an Artifact and an Intelligent Item.
"Certainly if this were any other magical item, even a powerful one, perhaps The Pathfinder Society could just get into Korvosa, find it, and get out. But in the case of an Artifact or Relic, many powerful factions will be getting involved, and it Will get political. Nonetheless, whoever finds it first is going to have the biggest bargaining chip, you know, 'possession is 9/10 of the law.'
"That is Your job on behalf of the Pathfinder Society. Go to Korvosa and talk to this Mister Refrum; find the fisherman Jarme Loveage and hopefully prove his innocence. But most importantly, retrieve that Relic. I am going with you. As is Sir Canayven. But we will not be available to help your mission. We will be staying with a local Lord named Vencarlo Orisini. He is a good man, honest and trustworthy, though his loyalties are to the Good people of Korvosa rather than The Pathfinder Society. We will be negotiating with him and likely Korvosa's Lord Magistrate, a reputedly good man named Neolandus Kalepopolis, for permanent ownership of the Relic. Keep us informed, and find that Item first.
"Do you have any questions while we wait for the last Pathfinder to arrive before we all Teleport to Korvosa?"
Lady Imperia Valeria Thrune had answered the summons with some haste. She was after all retired, but an obligation to The Society that allowed her to well find something to do after shedding the constraints of her past could never keep her fully away. She would as any dutiful knight answer the call at any age. Besides her children were older and no longer tied to her apron or purse strings. Thus the matronly woman was here in the office of Shelia Heidmarch with gear in tow.
Though a humble woman, Imperia who goes by the name of Valeria here and in her works as Lady I. Valeria T., did not dress the part. The tall sunkissed Cheliaxian woman wore a noble dress, its bodice white with sleeves and skirt shimmering like a liquid rainbow. Lace poured from the cuff and hems that spoke of songbirds, which matched not only the skillfully wrought silver holy symbol dangling from her plunging neckline but also the same symbol beautifully rendered on her clavicle were the symbol of Shelyn.
Her hair was cut short in a Cheliaxian warrior fashion, but on her head was a thin silver band with an oval-cut pink gem centered over a nose that though beautiful held a bit of an old break. Along her back was a cloak of many colors that seemed to change as she shifted, pulling the colors form the various hues of the rainbow. Oddly enough though her two strangest articles of clothing were the wicked-looking dark metal Flachion on her left hip with multicolored rainbow tassels and a pair of well-worn officer boots that were deep rich brown.
"Only wondering if with those of us gathered who is most familiar with the current state of Korvosas' climate both cultural and political. Oh and though I loathe to recognize it it's underworld culture. Been a few years for me I am afraid." Valeria said admitting her truth. She had been out of the game for a while. Children and the local ruins brought enough excitement and fulfillment for her.
"Thanks for answering my summons, Val. We could use a Paladin of Shelyn on this one.
"Unfortunately, it has been just over two years since The Pathfinders have had any presence in Korvosa. The last expedition there was a near catastrophe in The Green Market, a small park there. The Darklight Sisterhood has the support of the city, at the expense of both the Pathfinder Society and the Aspis Consortium.
"Nonetheless, we still have an ally there, the Paladin and former Pathfinder, Atoka. He has recently started a Temple to Lissala in Korvosa and can answer any questions about the current goings-on in Korvosa."
Mishanter nodded to the others when he entered the office and squirmed his oversized body into a seat. The tiefling quickly scrutinized his fellow pathfinders trying to ascertain their skills through observation. listened with a sardonic smile while the Venture-Captain briefed them. Ahh, a relic. That would explain this fisherman’s behavior, he thought while he considered the information being shared.
The large tiefling asked in his gravelly voice, ”And if this fisherman… Jarme Loveage, doesn’t want to give up possession of this relic. Is his removal authorized?”
Sheila Heidmarch exhales mildly in uncertainty at Mishanter's question. "Honestly, it has to be up to you. I don't know hardly anything about this Relic. You guys are experienced enough to know that you have to unapologetically defend yourselves when things get ugly. Yet if this guy really Is just some poor old man who got possessed by a vile thing his net dragged out of the sea-floor, yeah, try to save him. ....I'm confident in your judgement."
The Big Kellid sits in the corner, listening intently and writing in his journal.
Curtly he states:
Summary: Retrieve devilish relic, ideally without killing currently possessed Jarme Loveage. Possible allies in place are Mister Refrum and Paladin Atoka. Ideally infiltrate and exfiltrate without showing society membership or involvement.
He inhales.
Plotting backwards:
1: Exfiltrate with Relic. I am reasonably certain that possessing me is rather difficult. I possess a fairly strong will, and have additional tools to further reinforce it.
Transporting the relic in some kind of dampening or blocking box would be prefered, perhaps even vital.
In case of a hot escape I can assist with various fog-based concealment spells. In my experience, cast the fog in one place, and retreat invisbily while pursuers think you are in the fog works pretty well.
2: Get the Relic off Refrum. I have protection from evil, which may be sufficient to temporarily disable possession, and I am tought enough tha I can apply the touch. I do have a wand I can share as well. Straight knocking him unconcious could backfire, its feasible that this increases the control the relic has over him. I can cast Dispel Magic and invisibility purge as well, I assume this skillset is why you wished my assistance in this Lady Heidmarch?
He pauses.
3:Find the poor bugger. Dont think I will be that much help. I can intimidate people pretty well, but this typically bites itself if one also tries to be stealthy. I am not familar with spells that could trace individuals, but could use appropriate clerical scrolls. Concerning Stealth, I hope you are aware that I am a Gorrumite in heavy plate armor. My main contribution to stealthy approaches would be distraction at another point. He chuckles at the last points.
4: Infiltrate into Korvosa
As a non Pathfinder, I think I will be of some use. Korvosa is a good destination for hired violence, which happens to be a good description of me. Do you believe that Mister Refrun could hire us, either as specialist or as additional guards, without drawing undue attention from rival organizations? Also, how well known as Pathfinders is everyone else? This cover would give us plausible reasons to be there and move around.
Sheila Heidmarch nods to Par Joakimson. "I was dismayed to hear that our friend Ollysta Zadrian is dealing with an urgent situation in Kaer Maga involving a Cult of RuneLord Krune. Yet I am glad she has vouched for you, and allow me to say that you are most welcome here. Zadrian has told me you are a mighty warrior who loves fighting Demons in The WorldWound as much as she does!
"I am Sheila Heidmarch, Venture Captain for The Pathfinder Society here in Magnimar. This is my husband, Sir Canayven. Feel free to ask me or these other Pathfinders about our ventures. Mostly, our organization is dedicated to the following: 'Explore leads to lost knowledge, objects, phenomena and history. Cooperate with each other despite individual differences during the pursuit of these explorations. Report comprehensively on the outcomes of all such ventures.'
"The Pathfinder Society catalogues all the information & histories, as well as the antiquities and valuables. And the Pathfinders who have discovered these things etch their own names into a personal legacy.
"Let me ask you, Par Joakimson, how do you like the sound of other heroes, 100 years after you're gone, relying on your words and discoveries of this Devilish Relic in order to, who knows, save the world?"
A look of dismay quickly flashes across Mishanter’s face as he considered, A retired pathfinder and a nonmember. It means we’re expendable and deniable.
Beside a chair that’s simply too small for him (it would probably break if he sat in it), KTak'Ktah'Hal squats like the desert savage he used to be. An enormous brute of a lizardman, he appears slightly uncomfortable in the civilized surroundings of the house. Still, the gear he carries indicates an embrace of civilization’s benefits foreign to most lizardfolk.
He waits with a stone’s patience for Sheila to finish, and the others to ask their questions. At length he announces ”I have not run in Korvotha before. But if the thociety calls, of courthe KTak'Ktah'Hal will come. Do we have a good map of this thlum, the Thtyeth? Do we have a thketch of this Jarme Loveage?” His voice is higher pitched than that of a man of similar size.
"This is a painting facing the west -- it is several years old and based on a map even older -- and I know much upheaval has occurred in Korvosa in the past decade or so."
"The islet to the immediate right, the northern stretch of the city, is the District known as 'The Styes.' Originally it was called Endrin Isle, named after an original founder or military hero, as I understand it. Then it was simply called "Old Korvosa" for over a century, until the past decade or so when it degraded from poor slums to poverty-stricken filth.
"The painting shows The Jeggare River bending into Conqueror's Bay and the sunset. If one were to sail west out of Conqueror's Bay into The Arcadian Ocean, one could follow the northern shore over 400 miles until it turns north and reaches the port of Magnimar.
"I've only been to Korvosa twice before, more than ten years ago, and never to The Styes."
He chuckles.
Not much of a record writer myself, Sarkorians write on trees if they want to do it properly, although there are some inherent issues with availability and record transportation associated with it.
You are not the only not full pathfinder, They are likely considering you expendable Pär His copilot informed him.
On a certain level, everyone does. He thought back.
As a matter of fact I dont, far too much time invested in you oh most reasonable Gorrumite ever. She thought with a chuckle.
Yes, truely I am entirely special and have partly won you over by my incredibly deep, multifaceted and winsome personality. He thinks at her, mental voice dripping with Sarcasm. Compliments, whats next, trying to convince me of the aesthaethic value of a goatee?
I was about to mention it, but its a few steps further down the line.
Valeria will go over to Par and smile. A warm motherly smile as she stares him right in the eyes as she speaks.
"Fear not Par, It was Par wasn't it? I will aid you with your records. We all start somewhere. And with me and hopefully the others together we can get you in the society with works of your own within. That's if you'll let us" Val said with a sincere smile and tone. She was always ready to help a possible potential artist in her midst. The Eternal Rose always smiled on the bud, her followers nourishing it until the bud bloomed to a full rose.
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Artemisia stands closer to the painting, sketching in a journal. She is unusually tall, even for an elf, and every bit of her is covered in a strange melange of straps, frilled clothing, and the occasional glimpse of practical kit. From her jaunty plume to her ostentatious boots she seems at first glance every bit the carefree elf, but a closer inspection catches on well maintained buckles and tack, a practiced ease to her movements as she shifts in place, and a sense of coiled tension at odds with her outward pose of serene amusement.
”Well met, everyone. It is a shame we have had no time for tea or other pleasantries of civilized introductions, but when the time for waiting is done there is often only motion. I suppose we should be glad to have had even this afternoon to prepare. I have been assured that the tea the society packed is fresh.”
She looks wryly at Sheila a moment, then back to the group.
”Still, ah, well met and well said gardener. It seems, if my auguries prove true, that we are to be companions for some time. Some time.”
Another awkward pause, then a cheerful smile.
”I am, among other talents, a follower of Korada and as my lord decrees I offer you the open palms of forgiveness and peace.”
She cups her hands together, letting the journal fall on its strap.
“Let any wrongs we may have between us be set aside, and may you find your way home full of wondrous inspiration and not too many new nightmares. We are here and now the many arrows of the society loosed upon Korvosa in search of this relic, but I hope we shall find fellowship and in time grow together more like trees from which such arrows might be formed. Surely in the course of this search we shall find Devils, Devilry, and worst of all, those neither supernatural nor truly and capably evil. Many will oppose our efforts, some with no better reason than they are filled with low cunning and endless greed. We must be steadfast.”
She chuckles.
“Ah but I ramble about the future when we are meant to be agents of action. A failing of my early time in the tower, perhaps, or perhaps not. I am still at heart most comfortably a planner, dreamer, dilettante, but as with all that serve the society I am…”
She pauses again, suddenly much more serious.
“Adaptable. I am sure we shall get along famously, or perhaps infamously, if our host is right in her pessimism.”
Lady Sabella Embershadow Arvanxi lounged languidly in her chair(or if there's a couch, even better!), listening intently as Shelia explained their mission. Her dark emerald eyes flicker to each of the others as they introduce themselves. "I believe I might be able to help us, once we arrive in Korvosa, as I have contacts in the Darklight Sisterhood. Which, is probably one of the main reasons I'm here." She says in a silky smooth voice.
"We should go; there is still just over an hour before dusk and soon after that we will lose the light." Sheila Heidmarch (using a Rod to increase the power of her spell in order to accommodate such a large group of Pathfinders) Teleports everyone about 400 feet from the outskirts of Korvosa. Ahead you can see the mouth of the quiet Jeggare River languidly bending around the peninsula of Korvosa and, on the other side of the river bank, Korvosa herself. An old city, more than a century older than Magnimar, and founded by The Empire of Devils, Cheliax -- Korvosa is Magnimar’s rival.
About 100 feet away from you, between you and the banks of The Jeggare River, squats a shantytown of hovels made for visitors and other short-term Korvosans. But as you look at them, you see that they are mostly Sczarni — native Varisians who forsook the nomadic, bohemian-gypsy lifestyle of their people in order to change to a life of city dwellers. Sheila Heidmarch ignores the people of ‘Thief Camp’ – so it is nicknamed – and marches determinedly toward a walled area on this side of The Jeggare River.
You can see that within the walled district on this ‘East Shore’ of the Jeggare River is a massive stone bridge that connects to Korvosa proper. Apparently, you are entering the walled ‘East Shore’ district in order to cross the bridge into Korvosa.
As you approach, it is Sir Canayven who lowers his head in sympathy for the Sczarni of Thief Camp. ”They, or their parents or grandparents, were intrigued by us colonists and our building of cities. We were to them as exotic and interesting as they were to us. They didn’t know how prejudiced so many of us would be, how radically different our city-life is from that of a wandering gypsy, or how truly difficult it would be to make a life for oneself economically and socially, among us and our cut-throat ambition and greed. Unfortunate. And now they can’t go back to their old way of life. They just exist on the fringe of our society, forced to desperation and thievery. …. Ah, rubbish -- ignore me. Not even Aroden could bring everyone to civilization!” And he continues to walk forward to a main gate in the East Shore wall with his wife and you Pathfinders.
Gaining entry inside the wall of East Shore district is quick; Sheila Heidmarch pays a large amount of Silver in the way of an entry-tariff, higher considering the look of wealth among the group, and answers honestly a few simple questions – 'We’re not here to cause trouble; we’re meeting with someone specific; we’re not going to be here long.' And within a few easy minutes you are walking among the Korvosans of East Shore. Wall guards recognize when persons of power, well above their pay-grade, arrive. And know to only ask the basics, politely, and then to report every minute detail to their superiors. Let the ‘Big Whigs’ handle it.
After the teleport, K’Tak’Ktah’hal sniffs the air and looks around carefully, desert honed senses missing little if anything ...
and then suggests "Now that we are here, let uth make hathte to your friend Atoka. The quicker we are on the trail, the better - lethth time for the devilth to work. Altho, if we are lucky, we can be in and out before the city authoritieth react."
*****
As we walk, K’Tak’Ktah’hal replies to Sir Canayven: "My folk have been wither, we will not let you 'civilize' uth or our land at all..."
*****
At the gate, he makes no small talk and conceal himself as much as possible under his cloak, rather than disturb the guards.
As the distinct group approached the city Mishanter can not help but wonder, Was it wise for the Heidmarchs to accompany us? It just increases the odds of our discovery,
As Sheila pays the fees Mishanter quickly calculates,Time to throw the hounds off the scent. Aloud he asks the guards, ”Can you tell us the best route to the Acadamae? We have pressing business there.”
K’Tak’Ktah’hal is disturbed by Refrum's appearance; he suspects the warmblood is diseased...
8 ranks +3 trained +2 wis+2 nature's healing in urban terrain
Several questions immediately occur to him: "Can you provide a drawing or a dethcription of Jarme? Where wath he last theen, and while your are at it, do you have a good map of the Thtyeth? How about this curthed relic, do you have a dethcription or thketch of it?"
Imperia begins to write in a journal she seemingly seemed to pull from the pack on her back. With pen in hand, she begins to jot down something. It was fast and in a seemingly beautiful script. Hand working the pen with ease and skill. Strangely her dexterity was something remarkable, at least in this avenue of her life.
"Such an interesting choice for a goddess and temple. You know a few of the older depictions on frescos and pitted sculptures could give some local artisans the groundwork to properly depict her in proper resplendence." Valeria noted out loud before she turned to look at the other man and smiled.
"Why Master Refrum, I can see why this sister fancied you.Kind eyes and a gentle smile." The Shelynite said as she continued to look him over and circle about him. She carefully took her time as she looked him up and down. All the while her pen never stopped working, save the seconds it took to turn the page.
As the Paladin looks him over, She paused and then spoke again."So a Magistrate is involved you say Runesworn? Interesting. As for this Pythoness House, what sort of establishment is it? Such minutia may be trivial to some, but I'd rather go in with as much information as possible"
Muziel is by appearances a peculiarly-dressed dwarf, one bearing a fancy tophat, absurd-looking spectacles, and colorful robes. He says little as Sheila Heidmarch introduces the group, but recognizes others by reputation, just as others might recognize him.
His first words seem to come out only as they begin their Korvosan explorations. "Lissala, ya say? A fine lass ta be worshippin'," he says, unhelpfully to Atoka.
He then sees poor Mister Refrum, who seems to be falling apart at the seams. He seems to be deep in thought at the whole situation. "Right, 'old up son," says the wizard. Muziel was quite old, undoubtedly much older than Refrum though in much better health. "Lantern Man murders. Yer tellin' me this fisherman's been on some kinda killin' spree? One that included killin' off 'is sister? 'ow old's this sister anyway? Seems like 'e'd be awfully young for ya. I mean, yeesh!"
He bites his lip and glances over at Lady Imperia, realizing he might have accidentally undercut her bit of flattery.
Kinslaying hmm? A crime even Nocticula stays away from, as Socothbenoths continoued existence proves beyond much doubt
Unless the 2 are running the con of a demon lord lifetime and just let everyone believe they are foes, when they actually arent.
Wouldnt it be the con of 2 demon lords lifetime? To the subject, sometype of addiction or maybe curse?
Possible, ask for him to submit to detect magic, then offer lesser restoration as incentive? Would improve his capability and willingness to assist and put him in our debt.
Yeap, we do increasingly think alive
You do not seem well Pärs speaks to Master Refrum.
Would you permit me to cast detect magic on you? I cannot outright dispell curses without a scroll, but I do have access to lesser restoration. Pärs states, matter of factly.
Mishanter’s to was taking copious notes as the two revealed the details. He looked askance at Muziel and followed up his remarks with another question, ”Also, could you provide the dates, times, and locations of the murders as well as the victims names, addresses, gender, and how they were killed?” The tiefling stroked his chin, ”If we can’t find his lair we may be able to predict where is next murder might occcur.”
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Artemisia lets the others talk, focusing more on the flow of conversation than the so called minutia. She looks over the scarred man and dismisses his obvious injury out of hand, nothing time won't heal. His mind, however. Yes, a word might be in order. Her eyes raise at the offer of restoration by Par. Interesting, and oddly generous
When Mishanter asks about the details, she follows Val's example. Pulling a journal from her pack, she records her impressions with a ghost of a smile. At least we will be well documented.
As the questions wind down she finds a moment to console their new associate and his friend. Being sure to speak softly and as gently as she can.
"I suspect we have a long night ahead of us, and will almost certainly have more questions as the night winds on. It is a pleasure to meet you both, even if the circumstances are not as one might wish."
She smiles wryly and continues, turning towards Mr Refrum a moment.
"Condolences, Mr Refrum, for your loss. May Korada grant you peace, in time. It will not be easy, I am sure."
Her posture opens and she addresses the next bit to both men.
"For now, how may we best be of service? I suspect finding the man and the relic will be our priority if Sheila's concerns are well founded, but if there are other tasks worth doing while we are already offending the Magistrate, well, best to have them out in the open at the start."
K’Tak’Ktah’hal's nostrils flair as he considers the problem. "If you can take uth to the latetht murder thite, I could try to track him from there."
"Hmmm. Four nightth, this might be poththible, hath it rained thince then? Do you have alchemical tracking powder in thtock, Mr. Refrum? Let uth go to thith Pythonesthth houthe and find what we may."
K’Tak’Ktah’hal is eager to begin the hunt. He proposes heading for the Pythoness House and going from there...
The old dwarf grins at the description of Pythoness House. "Best we go at once, aye? Sure we all wouldn't mind havin' our fortunes read, right?"
He starts heading in whatever direction he imagines that place to be. "Come on, Trogs!" he calls out. The party suddenly notices a skunk scurry out from some bushes. It's black and white and remarkably cute if one did not think too much about what it was capable of doing. The skunk falls in line with Muziel's slow and steady pace.
Sabella visibly brightens when the brothel is mentioned. "Ah, Pythoness House, a most fine establishment. I had several friends who worked there, hopefully they still do. It's been awhile since I've visited." She says, flashing a smile, her fangs briefly visible.
"Val is fine. Honorifics and all that tend to add weight, be it good or bad, So Val or if you must Lady Valeria. As for the matter of accouterment to your temple, I have extensive knowledge of Thassilionian Art which can aid in living up the place. No musical works that I have seen, but definitely the art and some written works. Like a clever little poem, that seemed to talk about a Noble Lady and a ticklish lips which only a bea...Never mind about the specifics." Valeria smiled as she seemed to remember not all gathered would be so intrigued about such works. Still, it was interesting and supported her idea that romantic love wasn't the only love she was to guide and nurture.
"As for the temple, I shall take a gander. The Eternal Roses' ceremonies are often lively so I doubt it shall disappoint."
"A Brothel with Chelaxian Ladies who 'read' fortunes. Interesting. It is intriguing, to say the least. Though I do miss my homeland, I find Varisia much more to my liking than Cheliax." Valeria said stopping to see an adorable creature appear and she smiles.
" It's adorable! Master Muizel, I must compliment you on such a wonderful companion! Makes me want to just pet him and hold him close." Valeria says as she continues to write in her book.
Not necessarily the people I would want to run into at a Brothel. Should I partake on they see my tattoo, or wore they see my ring uncomfortable questions may arise? Doubtful though, but always a chance of her House being revealed.
Chelaxian Brothel hmmm? Do you get literally tied up in mile long pre coital infernal agreements and then they read terms and conditions at you until the time has run out?
Good idea, need to send that downstairs! I do have that female contract-devil not-enemy! His copilot merrily chimes in.
It is probably just a brothel with an excuse on top. Most mortals just disappoint. You have been fairly uninterested in company though Pärs, even though you do look pretty reasonable for a mortal.
Leaves an opening. Once you have brained a sufficient number of demons, anyone you were intimate with or plan to be intimate with will either be impersonated by a Succubus or abducted by demons. And I do not sufficiently dislike my travel companions to inflict that fate upon them.
I dont actually think you are in that tier yet, but yes, it is a concern.
To the group, Pär states:
Not much experience in the carnal arts, but I do look reasonable enough, am appropriately sized and have a fair bit of physical prowress. Adventureing group trying to get their "Always angry all the time" Barbarian to ease up a bit is a reasonable cover story if we go for it.
A brothel?. I’m up for that…. in more than one way,” he joked stifling a laugh. ”I’m sure it will make one of the best chronicles ever.” He looked around and added on a more sober note, ”we best get moving, daylights a wasting.”
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"Warmbloodth, keep your pantth on, we have a job." K’Tak’Ktah’hal is not particularly impressed with this outbreak of enthusiasm...
Oh, a professional! Remarks Pärs copilot
Keep your pants tucked in Irathiel would you? Pär answers with a smirk
Why would you even know what I wear Sir Pär? The Erinye asks.
Never thought you to be a skirt person Pär remarks mentally.
Depends on the setting She remarks.
If you want to pull of a high society assassination, skirts or evening dresses to blend in better can be quite practical. Some dresses also hide your leg movements and... She continues
Wouldnt your wings get in the way for a lot of dresses? He asks mentally
Enchance them actually.
"Sir Canayven and I are off to Citadel Volshyenek -- seat of Korvosa's Field Marshal, Cressida Kroft, and the Korvosan Guard -- where we are to meet with her and Lord Vencarlo Orisini. Proper introductions and all. But I understand we will be staying as a guest at Orisini Academy. It is a combat academy for elite warriors on the highest point of Endrin Isle (The Styes). During your hunt, please make the climb up Garrison Hill to report when you can. It sounds a convenient coincidence that Mister Refrum's Alchemical Healing shop is on Garrison Hill and that below is The Styes where you'll be tracking down this Jarme Loveage.
After wishing everyone good wishes and the luck of Cayden Cailean, Sheila Heidmarch and Sir Canayven begin to make their exit.
"If done right you don't have to take your pants off" giggled Valeria as she looked to Par. Eyeing him up and down she then smiled widely.
"Fear not the Brothel though some may have the pretense to use restraints and floggers, telling them you are more for just the simple pleasure can be rewarding. Trust me, I have told my children this a few times. Though hopefully, they aren't too adventurous, I am still too young to be a grandmother." The Sheylnite said in a motherly tone. She had visited many a brothel. Many of the ladies and laddies within were chock-full of information and stories. Some were even down on their luck artists who turned to the sheets instead of the streets.
Before:
Master Refrun, if you consent I can attempt to detect if any additional magic conditions affect you, perhaps hiding under your conventional disease?
You would not be secretly into me would you Pärs? Chirps his Erinye.
A) I dont know what you even look like B) I am reasonably aware of Erinye courtships with mortals and C) I am not stupid enough to believe that my oh so unique personality would outweigh point B. Pär answers mentally.
Thats what makes you almost tolerable company mortal His cohost chirps
You are suspiciously friendly, are you intoxicated? He asks
Not any more then you will soon be!
Outside talking to Valeria:
In Sarkoris, well, everyone gets laid at 16 years age to not be a virgin and deny the demons the possible "virgin sacrifices", and our Lord of Iron holds no sway over the more passionate affairs of the heart, so people can do whatever they want as long as it is consensual...
He states in a completely neutral tone.
We are probably more open to things with more then 2 participants then others, because it makes Succubus infiltrators less dangerous, but well, there is not great degree of erotic sarkorian literature or anything akin to it. There are some Romantic Eddas, but these frequently venture into comedy.
"Then let uth go patht Lebetter'th thhop before we go to the cathouthe."
I am picking up nothing apart from your equipment magically, and nothing necromantic or thaumaturgic at all. Unfortunately I cannot be of much more aid although.
" Interesting. Though no first loves or lost loves? I will say nothing beats the tender caress of a lovers hand. A kiss to your cheek or even a nibble on your ear while you fall asleep." Val says with a smile. She was wondering about how much Cheliax had influenced this place? Was House Thrune seeking a bastion to work from, If so were her siblings or cousins envolved? Were they here?
As the roamed the city, as she looked about she asked. " Is there an Opera house?"
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"Marbledome, sounds wonderful. Say after we figure out the artifact, how about I treat you to the Opera Master Refrum. We'll get all cleaned up, and make a night of it. It is truly a wonder to be immersed in the Opera. A wonderful experience indeed!" Val acknowledges as she seemingly beams with the excitement of the prospect. She has missed the Opera. Such a wonderful artform that the Cheliaxans had perfected. Minus the sacrificial and bloody aspects the pieces were wonderful and with a skilled cast can truly bring to life the works of art. In fact if there was a decent composer the troupe often had a local opera piece they are known for.