After dressing nicely for the council meeting, you head up the hill to Yanmass’ Commerce Hall. You are allowed in and told to wait in the front reception area. After a few moments, you are greeted by a liveried halfling official.
”Greetings. Sir Xallis and company, I presume. My name is Gregor Hamble and I am to escort you into the audience chamber. I regret to inform you that Baron Mauston Kustio is too ill to attend today’s meeting. Also, the Mercantile Council is hosting another guest today, Earl Yander Merkondus. Please follow me.”
The halfling leads you down a long echoing corridor. While you walk, he provides further information. ”The 19-member Mercantile Council consists of five principals and 14 associates who represent the wealthy interests of Yanmass. Today, one of the associate councilors, banker Rhundle Navin, is also unexpectedly absent. I admit that Baron Kustios’ absence isn’t surprising, as the baron has been ill at home for many days, leaving the task of city governance entirely in the hands of the Mercantile Council. Banker Navin, however, was not ill as far as I am aware. Our other guest today, Earl Merkondus, is a wealthy aristocrat from southwestern Taldor who has expressed strong Imperialist leanings. The Mercantile Council itself doesn’t lean particularly strongly either way—although certain members have their own opinions.”
Soon you arrive at the audience chamber.
Several chandeliers supplement the sunlight streaming in through high, stained glass windows to light the cavernous audience chamber of Yanmass’s opulent Commerce Hall. An immense oval table takes up much of the room’s space. A throne-like chair at the head of the table is vacant, but most of the other chairs are occupied. Seated in ornate, padded chairs are the five principals: a human man wearing ostentatious jewelry, a half-elven woman in well-tailored clothing, a handsome human man wearing the regalia of a high priest of Abadar, a proud halfling woman, and a narrow-faced, worried-looking human woman. Several other well-dressed people occupy less ostentatious chairs. At the foot of the table is a group of plain, sturdy wooden chairs, one of which is occupied by a fashionable, broadly smiling aristocrat.
Several guards stand discreetly around the perimeter of the room, alert for trouble. Hamble stands at your side, ready to offer helpful guidance should you need it.
You are allowed a brief introduction. The council members welcome you with polished and polite smiles. Then you are directed to sit in the wooden chairs at the foot of the table. Earl Merkondus, who is also sitting on one of the wooden chairs, turns are grins at you like a fox when you sit. ”It’s a pleasure seeing you again. I hear you’ve made some substantial yet ultimately futile gains for the Loyalists in Meratt. Good on you.”
Once you are all seated, the Mercantile Council gets to business.
The man in ostentatious jewelry stands, gesturing to the empty seat at the head of the table. “Given Baron Kustios’s continued absence, I’d like to call this meeting to order in his stead. We know that much of Taldor is currently in political turmoil, but we have pressing problems close to home. Yanmass suffers under the grip of several troubles, and our discussion today must confront these. First, terrible, unsavory dreams haunt many of our citizens; some of us here have had them, I understand, and their cumulative effect is crippling to morale and our economy. Second, the Taldan Horse cavalry regiment that protected our city has, in large part, vanished. This leads to the third issue, which is the rise of banditry on the eastern plains: Qadiran bandits, specifically, preying upon good Taldan trade.”
“All trade, to be frank,” interjects the narrow-faced woman, “Keleshite and Taldan alike.”
The priest of Abadar speaks up, “There’s another thing, although it’s not a clear threat: the Cult of the Twilight Child in the Encircling Bower. Good citizens are joining this mystery cult. Perhaps it’s as benign as rumors say, but we can’t ignore a new philosophy that is ensnaring so many of our citizens.”
“Religion ever reigns in your mind, Enumerator,” says the half-elf woman, “but people aren’t suffering from the cult as they are the other troubles.”
The halfling woman sits up straighter and adds, “Our esteemed guest, Earl Yander Merkondus, assures us that he has a group of troubleshooters already acting to alleviate all of these concerns. But so long as Yanmass suffers, so does trade—and therefore so do we.”
You are then invited to speak. Earl Merkondus already had an opportunity to speak prior to your arrival and sits without interruption.
Hamble whispers in your ear, ”You can say anything you want, but the most welcome comments would be to offer assistance with the town’s problems.”
Henrika nods to the others as they discuss the sickly appearance of the people they pass. "It is a worrying omen that heralds all is not right here. Death stalks each of us as an insistent acquaintance, and it behooves us to put off the meeting for all as long as possible."
As Jack is so insistent about wishing to be included, she invites him to join the party. Though since he is not finely attired, she decides that he should simply wear his armor and give every appearance of a guard.
"Why, Lord Yander," she says with feigned shock at seeing him. "When you disappeared so quickly from the Jubilee, I assumed you had fled out of fear that your social graces would be outshone by Lord Xallis and those of us in his company. It must be difficult for your self-esteem to encounter us again so soon." She inclines her head with a slight smile.
When they are invited to speak to the council, Henrika contributes. "Those who suffer from these dreams you mention, does it give them a sallow look, wan and sickened? When we saw your subjects on the road, we thought there might be some kind of physical malady present. Fortunately several of our number are quite skilled at aiding the unwell. We also have a great deal of experience dealing with bandits and rebels. I implore you to allow us to investigate these matters. Surely you would not refuse our help, whatever the earl here has offered you?"
She considers what they know. "Can you tell us more about the vanishing cavalry? When you say they disappeared, do you mean that they have had their numbers diminished through attrition or desertions, or else that you do not presently know where they are or what has befallen them?"
“Religion ever reigns in your mind, Enumerator,” says the half-elf woman, “but people aren’t suffering from the cult as they are the other troubles.”
"There are many types of suffering, ma'dam", Trevor cuts quick. "Such as making others suffer under false delusions. The Twilight Child this cult is worshiping is not Prince Carrius as they claim. We, of Betony Estates, put the child's spirit to rest in Birdsong. I fear the misinformed seek to bring something evil into Taldor."
The halfling woman sits up straighter and adds, “Our esteemed guest, Earl Yander Merkondus, assures us that he has a group of troubleshooters already acting to alleviate all of these concerns. But so long as Yanmass suffers, so does trade—and therefore so do we.”
"Such a serious set of problems will likely take more than one dedicated task force to investigate. I am quite interested in bringing this cult's secrets to light, as well as dispersing the more direct threats to the people and their trade." He bows slightly. "I would be honored to pledge my resources to aid the Council."
The summoner offers a wry smile. "I came here with an interest in making investments, and I have no doubt it would be in our shared interest to leave these seeds with fertile soil."
As he speaks, Navia casts her many eyes across the room. All the better to see who has the most and least favorable reactions. Or at least to get a feel of the council's general attitude.
"Why, Lord Yander," she says with feigned shock at seeing him. "When you disappeared so quickly from the Jubilee, I assumed you had fled out of fear that your social graces would be outshone by Lord Xallis and those of us in his company. It must be difficult for your self-esteem to encounter us again so soon." She inclines her head with a slight smile.
”My dear, you underestimate my self-esteem.” Yander replies. “Perhaps your clumsy attempts at diplomacy would be better served in a more effete city—you might find this one too rough and slanderous for your delicate ideals.”
"Those who suffer from these dreams you mention, does it give them a sallow look, wan and sickened? When we saw your subjects on the road, we thought there might be some kind of physical malady present. Fortunately several of our number are quite skilled at aiding the unwell. We also have a great deal of experience dealing with bandits and rebels. I implore you to allow us to investigate these matters. Surely you would not refuse our help, whatever the earl here has offered you?"
Lady Aumber Gewbell answers this question. ”This plague of disturbing dreams worries me the most. I am aware that there have been several suicides and bands of haunted-eyed townspeople wandering the town in a stupor. If you wish to help, speak with me after the meeting.”
"Can you tell us more about the vanishing cavalry? When you say they disappeared, do you mean that they have had their numbers diminished through attrition or desertions, or else that you do not presently know where they are or what has befallen them?"
Lady Carmellio Rauls responds. ”The entire regiment simply disappeared entirely. Most of the Taldan Horse’s mounts have disappeared as well, including their two massive war elephants. Their whereabouts are unknown. This has left Yanmass virtually defenseless. Perhaps the Qadiran bandits have caught wind and are preying on our caravans unchecked.”
"There are many types of suffering, ma'dam", Trevor cuts quick. "Such as making others suffer under false delusions. The Twilight Child this cult is worshiping is not Prince Carrius as they claim. We, of Betony Estates, put the child's spirit to rest in Birdsong. I fear the misinformed seek to bring something evil into Taldor."
Chief Enumerator Abrun Palliettor answers Trevor. ”I’m afraid I share some of your assumptions. I will speak with you later.”
"Such a serious set of problems will likely take more than one dedicated task force to investigate. I am quite interested in bringing this cult's secrets to light, as well as dispersing the more direct threats to the people and their trade." He bows slightly. "I would be honored to pledge my resources to aid the Council."
Lord Rudig Autun responds. ”I believe that Earl Yander Merkondus and his Kozan Bravos have things well underhand. However, we did agree to hear you out and I suppose it couldn’t hurt to have another pair of hands involved.”
As he speaks, Navia casts her many eyes across the room. All the better to see who has the most and least favorable reactions. Or at least to get a feel of the council's general attitude.
Navia has a hard time reading the council members’ expressions, but she notes that the associate council members react most strongly to the talks about the disturbing dreams. They may have more to say on the subject.
After the initial discussion, the large group breaks up into smaller groups to discuss civic matters. During this time, you are free to mingle and approach the council members individually and Hamble subtly recommends that you do so.
Earl Yander Merkondus takes this time to also circulate among the room and primarily attempts to assure the council members that his troubleshooters, the Kozan Bravos, are actively working to solve the city’s problems and that they don’t need any other help.
You can now look at the Mercantile Council link and see what checks may influence them. Speaking with each council member will get you some information and influencing them will get you some more. You have enough time to talk with everyone if you want to.
Lady Aumber Gewbell calls Henrika over to speak. ”Lady Henrika, I appreciate your interest in this matter. I’ve heard rumors of a local conspiracy theorist, a woman named Caradinna Farkin, who has long been known to make erratic proclamations about the “secret masters” in town. Recently, Farkin had become increasingly strident and insistent, even accosting a few of the council members in the streets. However, Farkin hasn’t been seen in the last 2 days. I wonder whether she didn’t stumble onto some genuine clues.”
Henrika or anyone else speaking with Aumber Gewbell can make a Diplomacy check to impress her.
Chief Enumerator Abrun Palliettor seeks out Trevor. He whispers guardedly so others can’t hear. ”I generally keep my opinions to myself, but I am suspicious of this Yander fellow. And you should know that the Loyalists have my support. Regarding the Cult of the Twilight Child, it may seem benign, but I’m uncomfortable with the public perception that it’s an offshoot of the Church of Abadar. I don’t believe that to be the case and I wonder whether the cult is hiding something sinister.”
Trevor or anyone else speaking with Abrun Palliettor can make a Knowledge (religion) check to impress him.
The other people you can speak with are Lord Rudig Autun, Lady Carmellio Rauls, Lady Hallianna Cobbin, the associate council members, and Earl Yander Merkondus. Descriptions are included in the Mercantile Council link.
Henrika bows and does her best to make the noble council member feel like she is important. "I am grateful for your intelligence, Lady Aumber. We will certainly investigate this Caradinna Farkin and her theories. It is clear that you have the better interests of the people of Yanmass at heart."
Henrika laughs in response to the earl's verbal sparring, but does not launch another attack of her own. Instead she casually follows him as he interacts with the other members of the council. Her intention is to keep him distracted so that he does not interfere with the others in her party.
Later, she will also attempt to charm Lord Rudig Autun by complimenting his fine attire and asking him about it. "May I ask, milord, if your excellent taste in clothes arises spontaneously from an extensive wardrobe from which you choose the day's look to match the mood of the day; or if you have dedicated yourself to a particular study of fashion, and prepared your outfit in advance?"
Jack, guarding her, stifles a chortle from behind his helmet, turning it into a quiet cough.
Diplomacy to influence Lady Aumber: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (8) + 18 = 26
Lady Gewbell leans in close. ”I’ve heard another rumor that someone is hiding out in Hedge Hill. Anyone lurking there must be hiding from something important.”
It looks like she can't "influence" Yander Merkondus, but just in case she can distract him and you'll allow her a roll:
Bluff to hinder Lord Yander: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (2) + 19 = 21
Yander Merkondus gets frustrated by Henrika’s attempts to hinder him. “It’s just like the Loyalists to ignore the plight of good Taldan people; we Imperialists have this well in hand, I assure you. Stop getting in the way!”
Yander heads to the door to leave. In the doorway, he turns for one final taunt. He removes his circlet in respect and says, ”I wonder what happened to Princess Eutropia’s representative, Sir Meir Dratavis, by the way. I fear the poor diplomat had started to realize Eutropia was a criminal and a fraud tearing the nation apart and fled out into the plains in shame. It’s only a matter of time before you come to the same realization. If you do chose to flee, beware, there are bandits about.” Yander laughs and marches out of the building.
"May I ask, milord, if your excellent taste in clothes arises spontaneously from an extensive wardrobe from which you choose the day's look to match the mood of the day; or if you have dedicated yourself to a particular study of fashion, and prepared your outfit in advance?"
Rudig smiles at the compliment. ”Why thank you, my dear. As one of the wealthiest citizens in Yanmass, all eyes are always on me. I set the trends according to my mood and others will follow. As someone who knows trends, I have noticed something that you might find interesting. I’ve been paying attention to who's been victims of these latest events and the Loyalists have suffered far more than Imperialists. I opine that the ill Baron Kustios has Loyalist leanings, the missing associate council member, Rundle Navin, was an outspoken Loyalist, and even the Qadiran bandits have been targeting merchants with Loyalist leanings the most. I’ve made it no secret that I support the Imperialists, thus I doubt I personally have anything to worry about.”
Bluff to influence Lord Rudig: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (12) + 19 = 31
”I’ve also observed that the troubles in Yanmass started shortly after a terrific new restaurant called Savories opened. Perhaps the owner of that restaurant knows more.”
Chief Enumerator Abrun Palliettor seeks out Trevor. He whispers guardedly so others can’t hear. ”I generally keep my opinions to myself, but I am suspicious of this Yander fellow. And you should know that the Loyalists have my support. Regarding the Cult of the Twilight Child, it may seem benign, but I’m uncomfortable with the public perception that it’s an offshoot of the Church of Abadar. I don’t believe that to be the case and I wonder whether the cult is hiding something sinister.”
"I understand entirely", Trevor responds in a hushed tone. "No servant of a deity wishes their patron's teachings corrupted. But Abadar has legions of inquisitors, doesn't he? Have you reached out to the Gold-fisted in Oppara for help?"
The towering Dame stands close to Trevor, her arm folded into his. The lore warden's eyes ever watchful and protective.
Seeing his allies already putting in the work, Xallis decides to keep the ball rolling. He bows before Counselor Cobbin.
"Lady Hallianna Cobbin. Pleasure to make your acquaintance. I know it must be concerning to have so many issues assailing the people all at once, but I'd like to hear your thoughts. What would you say is the most dire of these unfortunate incidents?"
The thought crosses his mind to bring up something about a 'halfling's unique perspective' on the matter, but he quickly exiles the idea from his mind. He can only imagine how many people have tried to open a conversation with such an obvious statement.
Chief Enumerator Abrun Palliettor seeks out Trevor. He whispers guardedly so others can’t hear. ”I generally keep my opinions to myself, but I am suspicious of this Yander fellow. And you should know that the Loyalists have my support. Regarding the Cult of the Twilight Child, it may seem benign, but I’m uncomfortable with the public perception that it’s an offshoot of the Church of Abadar. I don’t believe that to be the case and I wonder whether the cult is hiding something sinister.”
Tychus nods solemnly to his superior.
"I'll make sure to get to the bottom of this. We'll clear the Coinfathers name."
"I understand entirely", Trevor responds in a hushed tone. "No servant of a deity wishes their patron's teachings corrupted. But Abadar has legions of inquisitors, doesn't he? Have you reached out to the Gold-fisted in Oppara for help?"
Tychus clears his throat and nudges his friend a bit.
"Let us not bother the others in Oppara. I'm sure I'm qualified enough to handle this one." he says with a slight smirk.
"I understand entirely", Trevor responds in a hushed tone. "No servant of a deity wishes their patron's teachings corrupted. But Abadar has legions of inquisitors, doesn't he? Have you reached out to the Gold-fisted in Oppara for help?"
"Let us not bother the others in Oppara. I'm sure I'm qualified enough to handle this one." he says with a slight smirk.
”I have, but without evidence of wrongdoing, they won’t waste the resources. Their services are open to the public, but I’m too well-known to attempt snooping around. You two on the other hand shouldn’t have any issue. If you are offering help, I would request to attend a service and meet with me back at the Temple of Abadar afterwards.”
The towering Dame stands close to Trevor, her arm folded into his. The lore warden's eyes ever watchful and protective.
Perception: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (14) + 3 = 17
Malphene doesn’t notice anything unusual.
"Lady Hallianna Cobbin. Pleasure to make your acquaintance. I know it must be concerning to have so many issues assailing the people all at once, but I'd like to hear your thoughts. What would you say is the most dire of these unfortunate incidents?"
The halfling woman looks up at Xallis. She appears charmed by Xallis’ charisma. ”Truth be told, despite being on the council, I’m not particularly political. But I do keep an ear to the ground. I’d be happy so share some rumors I’ve heard. Hopefully they will be of help.”
”The Chief Enumerator told me that he saw a couple of shady figures lurking around the Temple of Abadar last night. He said they scattered as soon as he saw them but they didn’t look up to any good”
”One of my halfling girl friends told me she saw the dryad of Hedge Hill! It’s supposed to just be a legend, but she says she’s certain that she saw a woman dressed in green in the forest at the center of the park. Who else could it have been?”
”While inquiring about this new Cult of the Twilight Child, a citizen who attended a service at the Encircling Bower Theater mentioned seeing a weird man in a red bird mask. He says he was crouched at the top of a building overlooking the theater and watching the street. The citizen was creeped out but said the man didn’t do more than mope about.”
”As for what I consider the most dire, I’m rather concerned about these bandits. Until the Taldan Horse cavalry is found or rebuilt, we are at their mercy. They wouldn’t dare enter Yanmass proper, but the traveling merchants and those in the tent towns outside are vulnerable. I own several orchards and ranches in the outskirts of the city that I’m concerned could also be targeted. However, Earl Merkondus is talented, urbane, and exceptionally handsome. I’m sure he will have these issues resolved in no time.”