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The majority of the party returns to the lodge from their previous mission and after a few days receive a dispatch that they are needed in Magnimar. The ship is uneventful (thankfully) and the majority of the party finds that they are joined by companions from previous missions. Most of the group finds each other on the ship, but no sign of Briallen nor Baru can be found. Several jokes are made that Lukaas scared away yet ANOTHER female gunslinger.
In the vibrant city of Magnimar the dawn breaks the autumn air as sunlight creeps across Heidmarch Manor. It is upon these extensive manor grounds the eccentric married Pathfinder couple of Sir Canayven Heidmarch and his wife Sheila host Varisia's first and only Lodge. The Pathfinder Society have only recently started to use this gateway into the young lands that inherited the priceless secrets of ancient Thassilon. It are these secrets that the Decembirate currently wish to discover.
As the light cracks the window of your room within the Meeting House, you remember that you are to to have breakfast with Lady Heidmarch within the Manor itself regarding a Pathfinder mission. As the Heidmarches rarely take guests here, this meeting is considered to be an honor saved only for extremely dignified Pathfinders.
The jaunt from the Meeting House to Heidmarch Manor is interrupted by a pair of huge ponds filled with vibrant, multi-hued koi. You are able to cross the center of the larger pond by a pair of arched wooden bridges connecting to a whitewashed gazebo that sits on a small rock island. A rowboat tied to the near by dock bobs gently as the morning breeze picks up. Across the northern bank, a small open-air tower overlooks both ponds.
Upon arriving at the Manor, you are quickly escorted to the lounge. This room is squared with dark maroon walls, walnut trim with brocade rugs on its floor. Arrangements of plush velvet and leather couches provide comfortable seating, while a crackling fireplace creates a cozy feel. A small, glass topped bar in the corner boasts an elegant collection of vintage brandies and fine elven wines. Upon this bar, young servants bring in platters of pastries and fruits. Coffee and teas are offered to those who wish a cup.
A servant shuts the doors and states before leaving, "Lady Heidmarch will be with you shortly. Make yourself comfortable."
Gaeldrung, White Eagle, Eldak and Lukaas catch no sign of Briallen or Baru, it appears they have not been selected for this mission. Two other Pathfinders join them however as the party waits for their hostess.
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Gaeldrung selects a powerful wine and a few pieces of fruit from the trays before sitting. This place made him slightly uneasy. It stank of the Placid. The Entrenched. In other words, They Who Will Not Fight. He hoped that the Heidmarches were not among their number. It would be a shame to break anything in this fine manor.
a tiny dinosaur-ish looking creature darts irratically from one spot to another. Stopping looking around as if puzzled. Then darting 10' to 15' to another stop and perching for another look, before repeating the behavior. It's puzzled look conveys curiosity more than anything else. After surveying the entire room in not particular pattern, it pauses for a moment to look at each pathfinder.
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A deep commanding voice sounds, "Gleek!"
The tiny creature lowers it's head and scurries towards an approaching Tiefling. Then disappears under the tiefling's robes.
"Please excuse my tiny friend. He sometimes lets his excitement get the better of him and forgets his place." The tiefling walks over to the bar and pours himself a brandy, which he sips, pauses for a moment then confirms, "Yes. This will do."
He then approaches the area where the pathfinders are seated and makes an elaborate bow, without spilling his drink. "Greetings fellow pathfinders. I am Akvius Sirthos. I am here in place of my brother Baru. I believe he accompanied most of you on your last assignment. He is currently being disciplined by our master. The performance of his duties were less than adequate, and our master has sent me to help restore our honor. I do not indent to endure the same punishment... excuse me, rewards that he has earned."
Akvius takes a seat comfortably with the rest of the group, sipping his brandy socially while he continues. "I wield different skills than my brother. He is drawn more to the physical disciplines, where I excel at the mental. This carries favor with the dark one and he has seen fit to arm me with the ability to weaken our foes with a gaze." Upon finishing the word gaze, Akvius' eyes intensify with a red glow for a second before dimming back down to their natural hue. "The Dark One, has bestowed me with a medium to channel his power... this tiny creature. His name is Gleek and he is sacred to me. I will ensure the ease of our success in combat and problem solving. I am glad to be free of my dungeon... excuse me, study... to join you on our assignment." Akvius swallows some more brandy and taps his index claw on the near empty glass. "Unless you have any questions of me..." Akvius looks around at each pathfinder, "... is there anything about each of you that I should know, to better assess our success?"
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Yes. I'm pleading non guilty on the disappearance of miss Briallen. She was probably too much lovestruck with me to come for another mission right now.Can't blame her, of course.It's a common fate among young female Pathfinders.
After a smile and a wink to his "old" comrades, Lukaas turns an expert eye to the selection of alcohol, and select the tastier wine, rising his glass for a toast
May Cayden look upon our next task with a favorable eye!
After a moment of silence, he ask the tiefling
So Baru is your brother? I myself have a sister in the Pathfinders, Caemillia. She's probably deep in a mission now, it's been some weeks since she has last written me a letter. I should drink to her success too, just to be sure
*another drink later*
What a strange creature... what kind of overgrown lizard is this, if you don't mind me asking, Akvius?
The light from the rising sun performs a splendid dance upon the windows of the Magnimarian manor house. After everybody is about half way through their beverages and fluffy cakes, a raven haired middle aged woman dressed in a form fitting purple full length dress.
"Good morning dear Pathfinders, I am Venture-Captain Sheila Heidmarch. I am glad you came to our call."
She walks over to the bar and pours herself a coffee. She takes a quick look at all of the Pathfinders, lingering an extra second or too on Lukaas with a small smile. She begins to speak about the mission at hand in her distinctively low, breathy voice.
“As I’m sure you’re well aware, much of the reason Riddleport was founded where it was is because of its easily defensible position as well as the enigmatic Cyphergate, which has baffled scholars since its discovery. The Pathfinder Society has a keen interest in the Thassilonian monument as well, since solving its mysteries would undoubtedly unlock a number of other secrets regarding that lost empire. The Order of the Cyphers has been amassing support from outside sources for some years now, and scholars from all over the Inner Sea have come to aid Elias Tammerhawk and the cyphermages.”
Heidmarch takes a bite out of a chocolate-filled biscuit before continuing. “Just recently, however, we received word from Elias himself that several of the visiting scholars haven’t arrived in Riddleport Bay as expected. It seems as though a band of raiders, led by the Vudran pirate Alejia Netrav, has been intercepting the ships at sea, killing the crews, and destroying the ships. While Riddleport is hardly a stranger to the likes of pirates, Overlord Cromarcky has declared it illegal for any ships that wish to return to Riddleport Harbor to attack ships bearing the Riddleport flag. Alejia’s ship is clearly coming from Riddleport—the attacks all took place just outside Riddleport Harbor—but attempts to identify her ship have been unsuccessful so far."
“I needn’t explain to you that the Pathfinder Society is also very much interested in the secrets of the Cyphergate, and that the deaths of these knowledgeable scholars have severely hindered progress in unraveling the artifact’s mysteries. The unexplained attacks are beginning to wear on the other sailors of Riddleport as well, and if something isn’t done about the matter soon, there will be no shortage of civil unrest, if not anarchy."
“In a few days, a ship called the Topaz Titan is scheduled to arrive in Riddleport Harbor from Minkai, bearing the acclaimed Tian scholar Hirako Gurukaza—who is also a former member of our Society. We fear that he may be Alejia’s next target, and your task is to prevent her assault at all costs, both ensuring Hirako’s safety and shoring up our relationship with Tammerhawk. I have heard rumors that some of Alejia’s cronies have been storing their stolen goods somewhere in the Wharf District, so that might be a good place to start your investigation. While in Riddleport, keep a low profile and try to avoid pulling any of the crimelords into the situation. Tammerhawk would appreciate discretion and subtlety if possible. Regardless, there is little time to waste, as there is no knowing exactly when the pirates will choose to strike the Topaz Titan.”
The Venture Captain finishes her her biscuit as you digest your mission and cook up any questions you may have.
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"Is Sir Gurukaza or the crew of the Topaz Titan aware of the likelihood of their attack?"
"You mentioned the crews were being attacked and ships destroyed, do you believe Pirate Alejia is killing the scholars or taking them prisoner? Is there an indication as to what the Vudran pirates have to gain from these actions?"
"By what name does Alejia's ship sail under?"
"The pirates ship is on it's way. Do you suspect Alejia's where-abouts to currently be ON her ship? Are there any known associates, here in Riddleport that she socializes or conducts business with?"
"Are there any special supplies/resources available for us to use at our discretion, beyond our own?"
"Beyond discretion, have we been given the authority to deal with this (Alejia) with any means neccasary?"
"Does Alejia have any special talents or skills we should be on the watch for?"
"Is Sir Gurukaza or the crew of the Topaz Titan aware of the likelihood of their attack?"
"The captain of their ship was informed, but the other ships have been informed before. I am sure the crew has been briefed, the problem is that no one knows exactly what to expect because we are unsure how she is managing to do whatever it is she is doing."
"You mentioned the crews were being attacked and ships destroyed, do you believe Pirate Alejia is killing the scholars or taking them prisoner? Is there an indication as to what the Vudran pirates have to gain from these actions?"
"All we know is that they are not seen again. We hope that they are still alive, but believe she is killing them off for some unknown reason. As of yet we have not been able to identify a motivation for her actions, no."
"By what name does Alejia's ship sail under?"
"This is a puzzling item in of itself. No one has seen Alejia's ship near these disappearances. Her ship name is the Glass Pearl."
"The pirates ship is on it's way. Do you suspect Alejia's where-abouts to currently be ON her ship? Are there any known associates, here in Riddleport that she socializes or conducts business with?"
"We are unsure how she is doing whatever it is she is doing. It's entirely possible she is on the ship already. That thought is a sad one though, let's hope this is not the case. As for the associates, you will need to gather that intel in Riddleport as I do not have it at this time."
"[b]"Are there any special supplies/resources available for us to use at our discretion, beyond our own?"
"I have nothing planned, is there something specific you may ask? I suppose I can give you a few coin to help loosen some mouths in Riddleport."
"Beyond discretion, have we been given the authority to deal with this (Alejia) with any means neccasary?"
Shelia Heidmarch considers this statement a moment before responding. "I will avoid answering this question too specifically to give you leeway in pursuit of your actions. You are obviously forbidden from breaking any laws or regulations or doing something that is in contract to the principles of the Society." She clears her throat and continues, "That being said, this treachery must be stopped. Is that still unclear?"
"Does Alejia have any special talents or skills we should be on the watch for?"
"I'm afraid I do not personally know much more than that on Alejia. However, I've specifically requested your departure at this time to give you enough time to arrive in port and gather the appropriate information. I would suggest that be one of your first activities upon arrival."
She adds, “It is entirely possible that Alejia has some ulterior motive here, and perhaps it is related to the scholars. But when I spoke to Elias, he was very cryptic about why someone would want to hinder his efforts as Speaker of the Order of Cyphers so much, but if I had to take a guess, I’d say this is a direct attack against Elias, rather than the scholars themselves. I doubt that the Topaz Titan’s crew is aware of the threat Alejia poses.”
"While we are on the subject of Alejia, I know she is a lowly pirate. Alejia possesses more enemies than friends in Riddleport, having backstabbed many business partners to get to where she is now. Her sudden disappearance and recent activities have only spurred public resentment of her, and many would like to see her dead. In any case, don’t be surprised if your investigation gets you entangled with some of her less savory ex-associates.”
"Elias is a powerful figurehead in Riddleport, but his rivalry with Overlord Cromarcky is well known; few would seek to get involved in their complicated feud. Cromarcky’s direct underlings and the peacekeepers of the town, the Riddleport Gendarmes, know of the troubles the Order of the Cyphers has been facing as of late, but they are hesitant to do anything about it, as they fear punishment for helping Elias. Elias himself wishes to keep this investigation as discreet as possible, and have it dealt with immediately.”
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"Thank you for the insight you've provided. Unless my tight lipped companions here have any other questions or requests, I agree we should make the most of whatever time we have before the Topaz Titan reaches Riddleport."
Akvius stands and thanks the Venture-Captain for her de-brief and hospitality with a respectful bow. Then turns to the rest of the party.
"Shall we proceed to the Wharf District and begin our investigation?"
The tiny dinousaur re-appears from under Akvius' robe and scurries ahead of Akvius, as if leading the way out the door.
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Frans finishes his tea and fruit while listening to the back and forth between Akvius and the Venture-Captain, also content with the questions asked
"I hate water missions...
"I also have no questions, our long winded associate seems to have taken care of them all, it seems we are off to the docks to find some disgruntled sailors and potentially stopping some piracy, easy enough."
Giving the Venture-Captain a final nod as Frans makes his way out of the room grabbing another piece of fruit on his way out.
The Venture Captain nods and looks around the room, counting you for the first time. She folds her arms and frowns. "I selected six for this journey, where is the other?"
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Just as the last words are spoken, a young man enters the room, still dusty from the road and bowing deeply in greeting. "My apologizes, Lady Captain Heidmarch, but you also insisted on the answer from Master Torch and it took longer than anticipated to get a finite answer. I did ride as hard and fast as my horse could. I have given the letter to your assistant. Please accept my apologies!"
With that he stands ramrod straight and looks at the others expectantly.
The Venture Captain looks at Periel and nods. "Apology accepted, I look forward to the response." She proceeds to recap the important aspects of the mission and adds, "You companions can fill you in on the additional details, you have plenty of time at sea to discuss the details."
"I have arranged passage for you on a Taldan cargo ship called the Opparan Opal that will be leaving port within the hour. This should put you Riddleport two before the arrival of the Topaz Titan. Whatever approach you take, you must make sure that Hirako Gurukaza arrives safely."
She hands each of you a letter and gives you directions to the docks.
I have recently acquired several pet hellhounds that I’ve absolutely fallen in love with, but the damnable things burn through almost any cage I put them. I’m looking to start from scratch now, and must find a new cage that would fit such magnificent beasts and provide protection against their unique powers. If you find any cages that are able to hold remarkable hounds such as mine, do bring back sketches or notes on their design, and I promise you will be greatly rewarded...
I’ll be waiting,
Paracountess Zarta Dralneen
As a well-traveled adventurer, you’ve no doubt had the chance to see numerous other ships on their voyages throughout the Inner Sea, as well as our empire’s own Imperial Navy. That being said, you’ve probably also noticed the rather unfortunate state our pennants have been in lately. While you’re in Riddleport, I want you to find me a suitable set of flags that I might be able to use as a model for our own ships in the upcoming assembly tasked with redesigning the emblems of our fleet.
For the Empire,
Lady Gloriana Morilla
While investigating the business of Alejia and her raids on the ships inbound to Riddleport Harbor, I came across info that one of the inbound vessels was carrying a scholar of Azlanti ruins, a subject that the Grand Lodge is quite interested in. While I'm quite sure she's dead by now, the ancient book which she undoubtedly had on her person—a tome written under the pseudonym Diresome Kretchens—may still be safe with the rest of Alejia's hordes of stolen goods. The book would be an invaluable addition to the libraries of the Grand Lodge, and should you find and return it, the Decemvirate would be most thankful for your aid.
Good luck,
Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin
The crime lords of Riddleport Harbor have many pawns under their thumbs, usually mercenary thugs with little concept of virtue or honor. As of late, some of the crime lords have sought to increase their territorial holdings by intimidating citizens living in districts they have their eyes on. They rough up innocents and demanding exorbitant prices for the gang’s “protection.” Such exploitation must be stopped if law is to ever function in Riddleport. One of the worst of these is Boss Croat, who often uses half-orcs to do his dirty work. If you encounter any such thugs in your endeavors in Riddleport, make sure to take them off the streets and you will have done a good thing.
Always look toward the light,
Ollysta Zadrian
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During one of their meals at sea, Akvius proposes a suggestion to the rest of the group.
"Perhaps one or more of us might be able to gather some useful information before be arrive. Alas, I'm not much of a socialite (not high skill w/ Diplomacy or Knowledge: local), I tend to have more of an intimidating effect on people. Perhaps some of you may be able to poke around, maybe ask some questions of the crew? If you find someone you believe may possess some info, but is otherwise unwilling to divulge it... might be more cooperative after a 1 on 1 conversation"
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Frans nodding with Akvius and gesturing to Lukaas.
Yes I agree, I am also not a silver-tongued adventurer, I am much more of an enforcer or sneak. I would be willing to bet however the boisterous bard Lukaas would be more then willing to gather that information, I am sure there are plenty of women that Lukaas can seduce to get the information we need, what say you Lukaas?"
Continuing to eat the meal before him waiting for another member of the group to add their opinion.
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Each morning at sunrise the new members of the party are introduced to what it's like traveling with a priest of Gorum. Gaeldrung dons his heavy, spiked armor, finds the highest nearby point, and slams his mighty ax against his breast plate in a steady rhythm. While doing this, he bellows his victories in a rhythmic chant. He proclaims a victory over twin flying demons and of demolishing a devilish chair; of wolf-men and raiders slain.
He does this without letting up or losing volume for a solid hour. Eventually, the ship's captain just stops ringing the morning bell.
Add they eat, he says between a swig of rum and a mouthful of ship's biscuit, Ya, ask the music man. I'm sure he can find something.
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Lukaas is happy to let everyone have fun at him, and keep quiet.
He's in his cabin, writing.
My dear sister,
I hope this short letter will find you in good health and spirit. I am once again going on another mission for our loyal Lodge. I hope your own mission will soon be finished so we can have a little chat by a fire. I miss you, Caemillia. Maybe we'll be allowed to go on adventure for the Decemvirate together in the future, who knows? I'm holding on this thought, and the memory of your lovely smile and magnificent dark curls, until I see your pretty face again. And don't let your faith in Sarenae lead you into too much troubles... I know you mean well everytime, and that you do what you can so other can have a better, safer life, but please take care of yourself. I don't know what I would do without my favorite sister (yes, I know, you are my ONLY sister) to slap the top of my head each time I do something stupid. I hope your hand doesn't hurt anymore, by the way.
Your loving bro,
Lukaas Penn
The captain is a fiery dwarf named Sherven Twobeards. He has welcomed you on his Lugger and the gruff dwarf has stuffed you all into a spacious cabin, much to your delight. Well that is, spacious until you realize there are six of you who are all sharing this cabin.
Together.
That is around the last time he speaks directly with you. He tries to keep his crew away from passengers and you overhear several times over the course of your travel to Riddleport.
Despite the captain's repeated warnings, Lukas and Periel join the crew trying to blend in and extract as much information as they can. At first Lukaas is unsuccessful but determines that the crew has a "thing" for antics and the works together Periel until they find a crewmen who relents and opens up. He doesn't have a lot of information but he shares what he has heard.
From the rumors he's picked up on he's heard that no one sees the pirate captain take the vessel because she somehow is already on-board it and takes it over from within. How that happens he has no idea, but she seems adept and either sneaking aboard or planting herself on-board and signalling to her crew. As to her motivations one can only assume what motivates a pirate. He has heard rumors that it has something to do with Elias Tammerhawk, a notorious crime lord in Riddleport.
Before they took to their latest unlawful deeds, Alejia and her crew were well known among the pirate gangs of Riddleport. Alejia’s crew is known for its ruthless tactics and efficiency in commandeering and sinking targets, often switching or altering ships to conceal her true whereabouts.
In a whisper he shares with Periel as secret he's heard, he makes the Paladin promise not to repeat it. "While she appears human from a distance, Alejia is actually a vishkanya from distant Vudra! I'd stay clear of her if you were smart!"
He's unsure of where she's located but suggest your ask around the Wharf District and he's sure you can get some information there.
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"Good work, both of you. Several leads seem to led to the Wharf District. I assume that will be our immediate destination once we arrive? If we are to believe this information you picked up, about Alejia taking the ships from on-board, perhaps we could consider sailing to intercept the Topaz Titan before she is able to execute her plan? Of course the difficulty would be flushing her out of her hiding spot or seeing through her disguise."
Akvius looks at the other pathfinders puzzled. "Of course, I'm merely brainstorming ideas here. Any of you have any other suggestions?"
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I suppose this Aleija is a master in trickery and deception, or she would have been already caught. She would, however, probably keep a woman role.It's a little harder to pass for the opposite sex-please note that I'm speaking from personal experience- or for a different race.I'm just guessing here, but the longer you have to maintain a deception, the harder it become, so she would need to be a recent passenger or crew member. The Wharf district might be a good starting point for our investigations.
Two days later as the Opal begins to pull into the harbor, your eyes are drawn to the massive arching stone ring that goes from one side of the harbor to the other, with no supports in the middle. The Cyphergate is awe-inspiring to look at. Even from this distance you can make out glyphs carved into the stone-like surface. At either end you can see what looks to be scaffolding teeming with scurrying figures, wizards studying the gate evidently.
Sherven Twobeards sees you off his ship explains he has gotten you to port exactly on time as he promised Heidmarch. As he shoos you off he quickly resumes official business preparing for his stay here in port.
There are several inns around - frequented by sailors - seem a good place for inquiries.
The port is an extremely active port with all manner of ships coming, going and already tied off at port.
It is still early in the day - so less drunkenness is observed as might be encountered late evening.
The area looks rough an unfriendly, but not threatening. At least not yet. Most of the sailors in this port look hardened and prepared for trouble.
Gleek scurries around. never too far from Akvius.
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Gaeldrung things the city is spectacular. The docks were always his favorite area of a city, and these were more rough and tumble than most. It was practically pregnant with violence. Any random act could escalate into a brawl at any time. It was refreshing.
He mills about the docks and chats up local thugs and toughs about different ships, always getting around to the Topaz Titan. Even has a friendly brawl or two to pass the time.