After some well deserved time off, the party is once again summoned to the office of their Venture-Captian, Ambrus Vaslin. Once the party is assembled, Captain Ambrus addresses the band.
Good Morning Pathfinders. I hope you have used your downtime wisely. I must admit that your progress as Pathfinder agents has thus far been remarkable. It is for that reason that I have selected all of you for a most important assignment. You are being dispatched to Kerse in Durma. Once there, you shall make your way to the manor of one Temel Passad where you shall receive further instructions.
As the party looks at each other to process the information their Captain has laid on them, he once again speaks. Well? What are you all still doing here. To the docks immediately! Go, go, go!
The party quickly exits the Grand Lodge and makes their way to the docks where they indeed find that transportation to Durma has been arranged. They board the ship and make way for Kerse.
The trip to Kerse is uneventful and the party eventually make their way to the home of Temel Passad. A servant greets the party at the opulent Kalishite manor and directs them to an extravagant common room. The group is allowed to freshen up after their long journey, then served a feast of Chelish wine and savory sweetmeats as they are allowed to lounge about the various pillows and floor couches laid about the common room. After a bit, the servent enters the room with a plate and walks directly to Tarek. On the plate is a folded note that is sealed with the official seal of Venture-Captian Ambrus Vaslin.
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Tarek nods to the servant and thanks them for delivering the note. Tarek examines the note thoroughly and his facial expressions reveal that the note does not contain pleasant information.
Tarek then hands the note to the next closest companion. I think it would be wise for everyone to have a look at what information the Captain has shared. We must make no mistakes on this mission
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Tarek easily avoids the poorly thrown pillow I see your pillow throwing skills are a bit rusty, Caoilte. It is a good thing it is not a skill that will be needed on this outing Tarek grins and places the pillow with the others behind him making himself more comfortable.
Now, to answer your question. It seems we are to learn the whereabouts and condition of three dwarven diplomats who seem to have been captured and are being held by a group of Razmiri priests. We are to travel to the Gray Revelation Inn to begin our search for it is believed to be a place the priests use to interrogate prisoners. We will also be traveling with two dwarves. If we are unable the find the diplomats or we find them in less than perfect order, then the dwarves in our company will continue with the mission the first envoy of dwarves attempted to complete. Our next task is to escort the dwarves to the the city of Mendev.
The land is very hostile and we will be near the area known as the worldwound. Fom what I have heard, that area is crawling with demons. I do not believe our path takes us into those lands but just being this close to it makes my skin crawl.
It seems we are to begin our journey with another boat trip. I hope nobody gets seasick? By the way, anybody speak dwarven?
Kat knows Druma is a center of trade in the Inner Sea. It's government follows the Prophecies of the Kalistrade, a set of personal moral conduct that proscribes sex and alcohol and encourages business transactions. Druma is known as one of the heaviest employers of mercenaries in all of the Inner Sea and beyond. Kerse is the capitol of Druma.
Through his various religious educations, Tarek knows that the nation of Razmiran was carved out of the River Kingdoms and its people are said to worship a living god who walks among them. The followers of the church are fanatical and extremely distrustful of outsiders. They are also insidious and seek to convert all of Golarion to the church of the Living God.
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When the note makes its ways to her she sighs and stretches out languidly on the cushions, mimicking her namesake and manages to take up twice the amount of space her small frame should.
Either way, it looks like our time in town over there is going to be booooring. Despite being a trade center the government has such a stick up their backside over how immoral booze and booty calls are that it is a full sized redwood. Apparently they demand that everyone get their jollies by doing business.. excuse me, non-hedonistic business.
The red lolls her head over to look at Caoilte, You spend any time there? It's supposed to be a cesspool of merc action, but seriously, who would bed down in a town that prohibits bed partners?
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I seem to recall the Razmirians to be quite the fanatical bunch and very distrusting of those outside their faith. I have a feeling we will stick out like a sore thumb and that may makes us targets for conversion. Perhaps that is what happened to the dwarven emissaries. They may have been captured with the intention of converting them to their faith. I am not certain what happens to those who don't convert, but I imagine it is not pleasant.
Tarek then looks to Sylorin Sylorin, you may want to cover or hide your symbol to Sheylin. I am not sure what a symbol to another god will do to such fanatics. Although, you should not be concerned about that until after we sail to Xer. Tarek makes a mental note to store his symbol to Qi Zhong in his pack
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Eloriand took in the banter from his adventure mates as he thought back over the wondrous journey they just completed. Eloriand had not ever been so far away from his home and was still enjoying the newness of it all (even if there were no alcohol or brothels).
After reading the message he thought through the readings he had a chance to enjoy over the last few months in the hopes he may be able to add to the information pool about their current situation.
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Isador smirks while reading the letter offered by Tarek.
And here I thought this was going to be a difficult task..
I think that Tarek and Sylorin can just talk to them... brother to brother... and tell them that if they do not release our new friends Caoilte is going to arrange a personal meeting between them and their god.
This food was great.. I think it will be better than the fare at this inn where we are heading. he packs some of the finer meats into a cloth rag and inserts it into a side pouch.
anything out of place in the room?
Does Isador know anything about Temel Passad or the River Kingdoms not already mentioned by Tarek.
The several servants waiting on the group's needs pause and share a guarded look as they inadvertently observe Isador begin to pocket food. They quickly look away for fear of insulting the guests of the master.
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Nah Kat. I haven’t ever been there. When me and a couple of cousins came out of Linnorm looking for work we found better places to hang our hats than some zealot infested death trap. I dunno about boring though. Yeah, there may not be any whips and chains that you and Hav are fond of mentioning but I’ve never heard of a dwarf getting too far away from a barrel of ale. Turning to Izzy Smooth move there tightwad. You just couldn’t buy a few of them muffins and meats from a street vendor?
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Isador cracks a wide grin and turns to Caoilte.
Shrugging off the criticism What?!? they offered it to us and said eat all we want.
You will be off you high horse later when your stomach is growling and all you have is that dried rat that you are so fond of and I will be eating this quality fare.
He pulls his sleeve across his mouth and winks.
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Well it seems wine is not something they frown upon Tarek pours himself another glass and indulges himself upon the fine foods displayed before him.
He raises his glass to his companions May the gods be with us on our travels and we continue to honor the society with our deeds. Tarek then takes a long drink from his glass
Be sure to stock up on a few potions before we leave this city. I am certain we will find all that we need here and it may be wise to be well provisioned before the next leg of our journey. For now let us enjoy the hospitality of the gracious Kallistocrat. Tarek smiles and takes another drink
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I keep silent, mentally going though all the things that will red to be accomplished in order to make this trip successful not just for my self, but for all concerned.
Well, before we head out, I do suggest that we do carry a few extra days rations and water with us. One never knows when you can make a wrong turn whether it be on the road not so traveled or a waterway.
Pausing...I look around and smirk at Kat's question. Kat, I could not agree more with you on what a utterly prudish place we maybe going too. Lack of hedonistic distractions are sure to make for uptight folks...and a shrinking population I would think. I guess it be best we get any hedonistic distraction out of our system now and along the way before we arrive. with that I down a glass of red wed..savoring its right taste.
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Hmmm, I wonder if horses will be provided to us, or if we are gong to have move like infantry?
I look to my comrads and happy to be on solid ground, my legs still feeling the rock and rising and dipping feeling of being on the sea.
Here you go Caoilte I hand him 5 gold pieces. I guess you win the bet after all, would have thought El and Izzy would have been yacking their guts out after the first day after we alost all site of land, but you were right, it only took two full watches at sea. I tihnk we should all eat up, as I am sure all of us were a bit malnourished as I think most of us made a offering to the sea and fish
Looking to the servants, I nod. Yopur master is a wonderful host and most generous to us. You serve him well. WIll be able to meet with him and thank him in person for such generous hospitality?
Looking to my friends. Whether we march or ride, I recommend comfortable marching clothing and light cloaks for the day and broad brimmed hats when not wearing our helms. The plains of Durma are beautiful, but life int he city has made or skin quite fair, and the sun will kiss it till it is a throbbing rosey red our first we days until we can adjust and get used to its rays. A extra set of clothing, one to wear at night, one clean and one to wear in the day is recommended, as it will keep the chills off at night to have a dry set to wear. I know , some of you liek to sleep in your birthday suits, but I don't recommend it. The mosquitos will find you a most elegant banquet if you do, let alone if we run into uniinvited friends.
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Tarek takes another drink from his glass It is our good fortune that our gracious host, Temmel Passad, is providing a boat to take us north to the city of Xer. From what the note said, it seems we have another 30 mile journey east before reaching the inn . I do not know if we will continue traveling along the river by boat or be on horse back. I think traversing the area on foot will take us too long, but I am sure our host will provide us with more information and the quickest way to our destination.
Tarek pauses for a moment to clear his mind and to be sure the drink has not gone to his head. I plan on purchasing a few healing scrolls from a local scribe and perhaps search for something to conceal our movements once we get close. This may be a good opportunity for all of us to look for items that may aid in our recovery of the emmisaries. I don't think we will want to take on a large number of holy men if we don't have to. Maybe we should discuss options that will help us retrieve the dwarven prisoners? I may be able to purchase a scroll of obscuring mist, much like the ones used by the mercenaries that attacked us in the city. It won't last long but may help in concealing us in a time of need. Anyone have any other thoughts?
The group is given enough time to rest from their journey and refresh themselves on their as yet unseen host's hospitality when their lounging is interrupted.
Two silent servants open a pair of richly lacquered doors, and a human and two dwarves stride into the lavish parlor. The man, clad in immaculate robes of whitest silk, is short and round with a blond oiled beard, and his eyes are alert and amused. He takes a touch of snuff from a golden box and sneezes before saying, It is a pleasure to welcome Pathfinders to one of my estates once more. I am, as you may know, Temel Passad. Allow me to introduce—
One of the two dwarves, a redheaded female in deep scarlet robes, curtly interrupts the man. We can introduce ourselves, Passad. I am Metella Raugar, representing the interests of several Highhelm mercantile consortia. My companion—she gestures to a dwarven man with leathery skin baked by the sun, his head swathed in a bright yellow scarf—is Amauhak of Reth Bezel, a mystic of the sand dwarves of Osirion.
Passad attentively sees to his guests’ needs and ensures that the refreshments are to their liking before discussing business. He informs the group that his boat, the Abacus, will take them from Kerse, hugging the shore of Lake Encarthan before entering the mouth of the Glass River to pursue their first task: searching the Gray Revelation Inn. From there, the Abacus will take them the rest of the way to Mendev to deliver Passad, Metella, and Amauhak, and hopefully the liberated envoys. The deeply tanned Pahmet mystic notes that keeping the presence of himself and his two companions a secret is the wisest course, given what happened to the earlier team.
The Kalistrade then pops a date from a nearby plate into his mouth as the dwarves look in obvious disdain. Temel inclines his head as if to invite any questions before the party sets out.
Razmir, known as the Lord of the 31 Steps, claims to have taken the Test of the Starstone and ascended to divinity. He appeared before the people of Xer in the Duchy of Melcat 52 years ago and now acts as both sovereign and god of those captured lands.
It is no secret that the Razmiri clergy rely more on bullying than on divine miracles, often exploiting travelers to fill the church’s coffers. The regular patrols of faithful enforcers searching for dissension has resulted in the paranoia that runs throughout the government and the populace. Any friendliness from a native is cause for suspicion.
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Does anyone happen to have a map of the area around the inn, preferably detailed? Thoughts on how many routes into and out of the inn, visible or otherwise? Since it is near a waterway there is a possibility of a route that goes directly into an area accessible by boat underneath if it is very close to the water's edge. Is it a place frequented more by random travelers or "regulars"; how bad will we stand out if we just waltz in the front door and wander around?
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Tarek quickly puts aside the food and drink and stands to meet their host. He then bows in a respective manner and begins to speak. I thank you for your generous hospitality, Master Passad. Your welcoming of us into your home was more than expected and greatly appreciated. You food and drink is of the finest quality and your furnishings have been a welcome comfort after our long journey.
Tarek then looks to the dwarves. It is also an honor to meet distinguished emmisaries of Highhelm. I do hope we can be of service to your people and return your kinsmen safely.
I am Tarek Delrin of the society of pathfinders and these are my companions
Tarek bows again respectfully and waits for the others to introduce themselves.
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After all introductions are made then Tarek will address the following:
Should we all be fitted with attire to blend in with the peoples of these lands? Also, it may be beneficial to know of any customary greetings or proper interactions with those of the Kazmiran lands, if we are to blend in as much as possible.
There are also a few scrolls I seek to purchase before we leave for our trip to Xer. I will be most appreciative if you could direct me to such a merchant.
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It is a pleasure to meet all of you and I doubt I can be any more eloquent that my good man Tarek here and your hospitality Temmel Passad is not only exceptional, is beyond any of our expectations. I am Havelockk Flavinius of the Flavii.
My smile is true and honest.
After Kat gives a most impressive list of RFIs (request for information) in a effort to glean as much IPB (intelligence prep of the battlefield) in true Clausewitzian and Jominian Fashion, I can only smile at how much of the Art of War she truly knows.
Tarek a excellent point if we have the time to acquire a few last minute items. I know I would like a chance to purchase a arcane scroll that might provide of some use.
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Isador nods slightly and offers a genuine smile.
Thank you for the food and drink. I have been to many of the finest establishments in the realm and all of them pale in comparison to what you have given us.
As a matter of business looking at the dwarves we will certainly be discrete but we may need to dispatch the assumed captors. Will that be a problem?
We do not want to make matters worse and I would like to know what your thoughts are concerning our options.
Turning back towards Passad.
I too could use the services of an alchemist if one is available.
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Tarek will take a moment to speak with Havelock before anyone leaves the house to purchase gear. He motions him to the side of the room to avoid talking over anyone.
Does anyone happen to have a map of the area around the inn, preferably detailed? Thoughts on how many routes into and out of the inn, visible or otherwise? Since it is near a waterway there is a possibility of a route that goes directly into an area accessible by boat underneath if it is very close to the water's edge. Is it a place frequented more by random travelers or "regulars"; how bad will we stand out if we just waltz in the front door and wander around?
Temel listens patiently to Kat's questions, and answers her succinctly when he is sure she has concluded her inquiries. My my but you are thorough. I see that Vaslin has sent me the best available for this, hm? Unfortunately I cannot be of further service here. As Razmiran is very secretive, information is rather spotty. There is no accurate map we can provide you. We do know that the inn is accessible from the river and the course plotted thus far. As far as standing out, well..the Kalishite opens his hands everyone who is not of Razmiran stands out, so in that sense I am sure you will blend.
Temel then smiles warmly and bows as the rest of the party introduces themselves. He quirks a brow at Isado's question.
As a matter of business looking at the dwarves we will certainly be discrete but we may need to dispatch the assumed captors. Will that be a problem?
Hm. An excellent question. Our goal of course is to recover the envoys by any means necessary. That being said, Razmiran is a nation with large enough resources that could be problematic should they consider the Society as a threat. Of course you must do what is necessary but wanton bloodshed would undoubtedly cause...complications.
He nods and claps his hands once. I will see to it that the provisions you have requested are taken care of, then, unless you have other questions, we shall be on our way.
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The red sighs at the almost expected lack of terrain knowledge before asking another question as everyone gets ready to leave. Does the route we are going to be using take us directly to the "steps" of the inn? Or will there be a bit of leeway for one of us to slip off prematurely to try and find an alternate way in or out?
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Kat, a good question, and if we cannot get the information required, we might best sail past our objective a mile or so and then infiltrate in that way. It would present us a opportunity to study the terrain before cutting back to the Inn. We could also have a few us infiltrate the inn as travelers and coordinate our efforts. I bit more complex potentially, but our transportation could be secured at the Inn if if was just off the river tied to a wharf or pier.
Once having obtained the additional items, I stow them securely and make a few adjustments to the minor cantrips that I will prepare before we head out, after reflecting on Tarek's words and if there anything more to learn from his comments.
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Tarek addresses Temel Passad either on the way or before they leave.
Master Passad, what else can you tell us about this inn and the town it is in? Is it frequented by travelers from all lands and is the town known for any type of trade? I ask because I am curious on how we should approach the location. If being an outsider is considered normal then I can't imagine having to be too stealthy in our approach. What is our cover story? Are we merchants, travelers or something else?
Temel listens to the party's further inquiries and nods with an apologetic smile. I am sorry my friends, but our information about the Inn is fairly limited. As far as a cover story, well Passad spreads his hands and smiles widely to the group that is why Vaslin sent his very best, no? I am sure this sort of subterfuge is right up your, how do you say?, ah yes, alley. The merchant smiles again and gives Kat and Isador a mirthful wink.
The party is outfitted and then the group, with Passad and the dwarves, board the Abacus. The ship is well made and certainly bought for top coin. The vessel is staffed by a crew of four sailors and a captain. The crew members are polite, courteous, and ruthlessly efficient in their tasks. Once aboard, the party sets sail for Razmiran.
The Abacus sails upon Lake Encatheon, bouncing slowly with the current. The wind is crisp but refreshing as it splashes across the faces of the eager passengers and sailors. The initial journey is uneventful and the craft eventually reaches the mouth of the Glass River.
The boat heads east toward Razmiri waters without incident. As the travelers get close to Razmiri territory, Passad approaches the gathered party on deck. Alright Pathfinders, we near Razmiran and decisions must be made. I suggest we dock at Xer and set forth from there. Abiding by local customs will help us avoid unwanted attention. We submit ourselves form inspection and you can sweeten the deal with a little "gratuity" with the expected toll. If we do not pay the tribute, we will undoubtedly be harassed by one of the Razmiri faith barges that patrol the river. I will even pay the tribute myself. As he says the last words, Passad draws two glimmering platinum pieces from a silk purse at his waist and opens his mouth to continue before Metella steps in front of him and speaks.
That is fine and good Passad, if you want to get us all captured. She turns to the party and offers a warm and somewhat apologetic smile. I do not agree with our host. I would counsel to take our chances with the faith barges and avoid the docks all together. If we put in at Xer, we will certainly be boarded and searched. If they find my envoy and our...generous...patron, our mission will surely be jeopardized.
Passad frowns ever so slightly and returns the coins to his pouch. The mission is yours, Archons. Tell the captain which it will be, but do hurry. We shall soon be crossing into the sovereign territory of Razmiran.
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Isador watches the somewhat tense interaction between Passad and Metella.
Hmm, I tend to agree with Metella unless you are sure that we can pay our way past any suspicion.
These faith barges...how armed are they?
I assume that they will still pull alongside if not board us if we encounter one, correct? Is this ship fast enough to out run a barge?
Anything on Faith Barges and the risks associated with bribing the harbor master?
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Tarek and Izzy, I agree with you and Metella and think our best bet and hope is to continue up river. That said, I am not comfortable in confronting a Faith Barge or any type of facade that says we have some plague or illness. What is to say that one of these zealots on the barge or docks just doesn't fire us up?
I pause looking around, and at Temel, trying to see if there was any hint of deception in his words.
Xer feels a bit like a hornets nest and invites trouble for us. It would be too easy to get lost, divided, and certainly outnumbered if things go wrong. IN a worse case we can beach the boat on the south eastern river bank or swim for it and venture into Kyonin. Just a hunch, but regardless as to how the elves may view us, my guess is we will get a better deal than if those masked zealots get us.
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I think we need to have a set story and plan as to what we will do if things start going south. I do not know if my appearance will command respect or hostility in the eyes of the locals. Perhaps Isador's knowledge in unusual artifacts may make him the best candidate for speaking to any locals and coming up with a suitable cover story for our mission up the glass river?
Tarek shoots Isador a quick look Are you up for such a challenge my friend? I am open to following your lead if you wish to take the reigns on this one? I think we have voiced a few options so far and once the rest of the group chimes in then perhaps we can formulate a plan.