This thread is open so that everyone can see it.  However, only Divine Casters may post here.  It doesn't matter what your class, so long as you cast spells granted by a deity - this thread is for you.  That also includes any characters who will receive Divine Spells at a later level  (ie paladins and Rangers)

You may, of course, PM clerics you know, asking them to put your case forwards.


"Lord Henry has asked me to call you together so that you can discuss a number of religious matters that have come to light recently.  There has been discussion concerning the worship of Hanspur, Gyronna and Besmara.  Some have said that we should ban the worship of these deities, while other have suggested restrictions.

Henry would like to understand the position of the Clergy of Midmarch."

---

Gyronna = https://pathfinderwiki.com/wiki/Gyronna
Hanspur = https://pathfinderwiki.com/wiki/Hanspur
Besmara = https://pathfinderwiki.com/wiki/Besmara
This message was last edited by the player at 15:52, Tue 09 June 2020.

"Before we discuss the ban of worship regarding a few specific deities. I have a question for those churches that are allowed to gather in the Midmarch. What responsibilities are expected from these churches? I would hope at the very least, they would have to answer the call when Lord Henry commands them. Are there any others?" Kendrick looked around the room to gauge the reactions of the various representatives that gathered for this discussion.

Alisa felt that Kendrick's question was a valid and important one.   But she also knew what she wished to say as regards the three in question, and decided to go ahead and get it out now-

"For those who don't know me, I am Alisa D'Medvyed, priestess of the mostly forgotten, yet not wholly gone, Acavna.  And I will offer my clear feelings on the potential presence of these three faiths in our lands."

"And I shall start with the worst of them, that being Gyronna's sect.  While I do feel compassion for some of those whom end up in the sick embrace of that spiteful faith, I can in no way condone a religion that delights in setting friends and loved ones at each others throats.  And that also doesn't blink at robbing cradles, nor stooping to murder if it happens to serve their ends.  Endorsing this faith is, in my view, tantamount to telling the population that if some tragedy should befall you, then you are entitled to spend the rest of your days taking it out on the innocent."    She shook her white-maned head, lips frowning in her obvious distaste for Gyronna's creed.

"Now, as for Hanspur...I doubt we'd otherwise be discussing this sect...save for the fact that cold blooded murder is woven straight into their ritual and rites. And what precedent does it set, to know for certain that the worshipers of this faith will commit murder, that it's only a matter of time, and to turn a blind on it? Hanspur is a failed demi-god, if I understand right, mostly abandoned by Gozreh, and held as an affront by Pharasma.   A pair of gods have spoken as regards this one, and I feel we should pay heed to what they are indirectly telling us."

"Besmara...the saint of the three," Alisa quipped in plain humor.   "Relatively speaking. I could almost see making a case for her...in the same way that gods of thievery are sometimes accepted, if not loved, in all quarters.  However, piracy is more likely than thievery to lead to bloodshed and loss of life. And the message here would be that it can be justified or excused as a matter of religious practice."  She shook her again.

"I may well be prejudiced.  The one I serve made a great sacrifice to protect and spare mortal life.   And I wouldn't at all be living up to her example by tolerating faiths that hold life in such disregard."  She paused for a moment, almost finished, before adding-

"If the choice were made to outright ban their practice, however -- the downside is that they may then practice in secret, and be even more dangerous for it.  As well as possibly holding a grudge."   
This message was last edited by the player at 21:55, Tue 09 June 2020.

"I wouldn't look to the followers of Gozreh to flock to Henry's banner as part of their worship of Gozreh. Though there's not really a church to the Wind and Waves here in Midmarch yet, I think in time that will change in the Narlmarches."

"Any church can gather in Midmarch right now, just only a handful have any kind of officially recognized houses or shrines of worship." she shrugged.

"Hanspur... I think of the three he's the most misunderstood. He's not a failed demigod. He is a demigod. That said, I know most places ban his worship because of the rituals of his followers. Hells, maybe we could help encourage a new sect of Hanspur worship that just simulates the drownings or something."

"Gyronna has nothing good to offer and I don't think we should allow official houses of worship to be publicly built to her or authorized her worship in Midmarch.

"...And Besmara is just too chaotic to allow to have a large following here. it's antithetical to building a society or region up to worship piracy."

Brother Lutz wears his best leather apron, although the grey leather shows signs of having been used to work in the forge.  His dark hair and beard are freshly washed and oiled, and the beard is decorated with the gold rings used to indicate his skills and position within the faith.  When it is his turn to speak Lutz stands then, touching the hammer on his belt as a reminder that he speaks for Torag, says his piece.

”Torag does not approve of any of them.  Drowning people, piracy and spreading hatred should not be tolerated in a proper society.”

Then with a ‘hurrumph’ he sits back down, crosses his arms across his chest and looks around the table, almost daring someone to contradict him.

The gpod brother stood, he wore the symbol of Iomedae on his tabard and a longsword at his belt.  "Lord Kendrick, are you saying the churches should be subservient to Lord Henry?  Our commission comes from the divine not the whims of the secular powers and thus we should retain our independence. "

The elderly grey-haired woman in black robes chimes in on the conversation. "You will get no arguments on that from me, Brother Lutz. Indeed, practice of these morally reprehensible rites may not only be the effect of the chaotic, lawless and short-lived nature of the River Kingdoms, but at least in part its cause as well. Murder, strife, piracy, banditry - there are good reasons worship of these entities is proscribed in most civilized realms."

She is also interested in what did Kendrick mean by his question. "The church of Grandmother Crow obeys the just laws of the realm and gives succour to its orphans and the poor. Beyond that, what exactly is expected of us? We have no armies to answer anyone's call."

The large man permits himself a small smile as Brother Thaddeus says his piece, but sets that aside, seemingly troubled as he speaks up.

"Pharasma teaches that we should not judge the actions of others in life - that burden is hers alone when finally their souls stand before her."

"Nor would she quarrel with any other god ... with perhaps a few exceptions."

"Yet I am but a poor, unworthy priest," Ethankos smiles once more, more broadly, "and there are many in this world who bring with them weal and woe, and they I would gladly hurry on to that final judgment."

"Tolerating the worship of those three, I feel would in no way bring hope or peace to these lands."

"I have no wish to single out individual deities whose worship is to be banned, although there may be some where we decide that is the appropriate course. Hanspur may be one of those. He is not inherently evil but one of his rituals involves drowning a victim in the river, which cannot be condoned. But equally concerning is Hanspur's strength in the River Kingdoms and his church's promotion of the River Freedoms, which we have decided we will not implement in Midmarch. Devoted followers of Hanspur are unlikely to be friendly to Midmarch, although that may be as much about politics as religion. My understanding is that the worship of Hanspur has been banned by the Midmarch Council. I believe that this is already known by a number of people in the River Kingdoms, so there is no turning back from that position now, even if we wanted to.

"I would strongly advise that the worship of all evil deities should be banned throughout Midmarch, with anyone caught actively worshipping an evil deity to be exiled from Midmarch. Gyronna is just one of the evil deities that would apply to.

"If someone's worship of their deity involves a criminal act then they should be tried and punished for those crimes, and religious beliefs should not be allowed as a legal defence of those crimes. That would, of course, include anyone who drowns an innocent victim in Hanspur's name, regardless whether the deity himself is considered evil or not.

"Places of worship of evil deities should not be permitted to be constructed in any of our settlements. If such places exist in less civilised places in Midmarch, well, we should endeavour to weed them out whenever it is practical to do so but I would caution the inexperienced against tampering with things they do not understand. Such places can be extremely dangerous to deal with. If in doubt, report it and someone more experienced can decide how to deal with it.

"Any proposal to build a place of worship to any deity in any settlement requires the approval of the relevant authority, such as the City Council in Tusk. I would suggest that a deity like Besmara, the goddess of Piracy, Strife and Sea Monsters, should not be permitted any substantial place of worship in any settlement in Midmarch, even if she is not actually considered to be an evil deity. On the other hand, if some ship's captain considers it necessary to maintain a small shrine to Besmara on his ship to ward against pirates and sea monsters, so be it.

"Actually, I would consider that approval to build a place of worship to a deity in a settlement would come with a perfectly reasonable expectation that the clergy attached to that place of worship should aid the settlement in whatever way they can in times of need. Some of us are suited to taking up arms in defence of the settlement, or to defending the settlement through the power of our prayers, while some are better suited to caring for the sick or wounded. I think that would be the most appropriate way to answer Kendrick's question."

“So nobody gets banned, right?” Jensen asked as he shuffled his big feet. “That’s good. Nobody can argue religious intolerance. It’s just that no crime is allowed based on religious freedom. Murder is illegal. Thievery is illegal. Destruction of property is illegal. Now we just need to make a law stating that Evil is illegal.”

The paladin scuffed his boots together. “Now hear me out. If Evil is illegal, then worship of an Evil deity is illegal. And if you say that Evil can’t be made illegal, then I think you should revise your knowledge of most church tenets. And non-evil churches that hold destructive practices, well like you said, that’s a zoning problem taken up with the local councils.”

"I am saying that if Lord Henry is allowing that churches to be built anywhere in the Midmarch, then there is a responsibility that goes with that." Kendrick answered the good brother. "Am I wrong in this expectation?"

"I don't think you are at all, Sir Kendrick.  And Bishop de Lebeda I believe phrased it well as 'a perfectly reasonable expectation.'  As opposed to an ordinance, or a command.   Most of us want to help Lord Henry, and our communities. It's a willing alliance, not a forced obligation.   More, I believe Henry is wise enough to understand any true priest or priestess serves their god, first and foremost.  While I could be wrong, I think situations where there would be a serious conflict of interest would be fairly rare.  And able to be settled in a way acceptable to both parties."

Not that Alisa expected much complication for herself.  Though she planned one day for something more, there was no church of Acavna, and she was the only 'force' serving the goddess in this land.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:20, Wed 10 June 2020.

"While it isn't wrong for Lord Henry to expect cooperation from the churches within Midmarch.  It is unreasonable to assume that Lord Henry has the right to decide who controls those churches.  After all the Bishop of Abadar in Tusk holds a similar rank to his Lordship.  Is it not ones Diety to whom we are all obligated to before any man?

Listening to the conversation, Brother Bart lays out Henry's position.

"Lord Henry, as head of the leMaistre Family, exercises the right to appoint the head of the Pharasmin Abbey in Tusk.  The House of Pharasma in Tusk was founded with his family's money, his cousin is the Abbess - and his family, as founders of the house, retain an interest in appointing succeeding leaders.  There is, of course, a clause that requires that any new Abbot or Abbess is a properly consecrated priest of Pharasma, but the final choice rests with Henry."

Then with a nod towards Ethankos and Marceline he continues  "Henry does not, of course, object to any other Pharasmin priests setting up their own religious houses or ministering to their followers."

---

That mimics the Patronage system of some early British Churches, that were established by nobles. Second son of the Noble went into the church, and finished up running the local church (if they didn't get a higher ranking position)  In the case of some abbeys, appointment of a new Abbot required authority from the King.

"I know little of matters politic," Ethankos admits, his voice a low rumble, "yet I consider myself here in Midmarch, a priest of Pharasma, by Lord Henry's sufferance. He is the Warden of these lands after all, and has a responsibility to look after all who dwell here."

"While what authority we priests have comes from the gods, still we are fallible men and women ... and we are subject to those that stand above us within our own orders, as Lord Henry is subject to those who rank above him."

"What of the farmers and smiths and shopkeeps who work hard and ply their trade ?  What should they do if their priest says one thing and the law another ?"

"Church and state can work together, but we too must be subject to the law and by extension to the ultimate authority of Lord Henry ... though I find it heartening that our ruler has not simply pronounced those laws from on high, but seeks our help to shape them for the benefit of all."

Aranel is still a bit fuzzy on what is actually being discussed here. "These responsibilities, what form exactly should they take? Unless I am mistaken, none of us here command any man-at-arms to pledge to Lord Henry. And all of us, I believe, already obey the laws of the land, and help our communities as much as we can. What exactly is left that we should be doing?"

The only concrete thing that I see would be a magic economy tax. Unless we are taking about a more... abstract form of support? In which case, harrumph, harrumph. The church of Andoletta continues to support Lord Henry's requests 100%, as long as he continues to never actually make any.

"I believe that the only religious establishment with people under arms is the House of Iomedae in Tusk, who fall under the command of Lord Borric and Lady Mariam."  Brother Bart offers, naming the Chief Magistrate of Midmarch.  "And I am sure that Borric would take whatever course of action he felt appropriate."

"The churches can offer other support besides people under arms." Kendrick added, "The men will need priest that can cure wounds and many other things that are supportive in nature. Don't forget about logistics. Wars are won by the speed of supplies, not only the sword that swings it."

"I am sure we are all doing and will keep doing everything we can do to help. But I cannot fail to notice that only obligations mentioned so far were of decidedly military nature. That is understandable if we are talking about the church of Iomedae, but many faiths are far less martially inclined than that of the Inheritor. And yet I'd like to think we are all already making a valuable contribution to the realm."

Aranel looks over the assembled Council.

"And if not, if our contribution is to be judged chiefly by our military usefulness, then this Council might wish to reconsider allowing followers of the Pirate Queen to join us after all. I am sure her pirates would be far more useful to our military than my teachers could ever be."

"Which brings us back to the original question of Gyronna, Hanspur and Besmara".

"I believe I stated my opinion on those three earlier, Brother," Andalon responded. "I don't believe there was any real disagreement on the basic principles.

"The worship of all evil deities should be banned throughout Midmarch, with anyone caught actively worshipping an evil deity to be exiled from Midmarch. Gyronna is just one of the evil deities that would apply to.

"Hanspur is not truly evil but worship of Hanspur is banned in most civilised lands because one of his rituals requires his worshipers to drown someone in the river. But politics is an equally important reason to ban the worship of Hanspur. His worship primarily in the River Kingdoms means that any presence of his church in Midmarch is likely to be a haven for agents of the River Kingdoms, enemies of Midmarch. Therefore my understanding is that the worship of Hanspur has been banned by the Midmarch Council and I would certainly not wish to overturn that decision.

"Besmara is not truly evil either and there has not been any political reason to ban her worship in Midmarch yet. Piracy is a crime and will be punished as such, but worship of Besmara is not. I would not vote in favour of any proposal to build a place of worship to the goddess of Piracy, Strife and Sea Monsters in any settlement in Midmarch, but I would not seek to ban the worship of Besmara outright in Midmarch.

"Does anyone disagree?"

Rising once more to speak Brother Thaddeus clears his throat "Your Grace, if we are outlawing evil worship then should we not also ban the worship of chaos and entropy?  Are they not more likely to transgress the law than say a devotee of Asmodeus?  Dieties like Besmara, Gorum, Calistria, Desna, Rovagug and Lamashtu are all inimical to the rule of Law."

"That one's a troublemaker," Ethankos vouchsafes to Andalon, not quietly and with a grin and a wave of apology to Brother Thaddeus should he take offense at the jest.

"Do any of those faiths espouse disobeying the laws of the land ?" the priest asks.  "I fear I may not have been as attentive as I should have been to much more than the broader aims of gods other than my own."

"Perhaps we should have thought to order meals brought in - this discussion may take a while." the large man tells the Bishop of Abadar as he settles into his chair once more.  "I just hope none here intend to argue the virtues of the undead !"

Bart shudders at the thought.

"Whilst I do have some sympathy with your point of view, Brother Thaddeus, the Midmarch Religious Council covers quite a range of theological points of view. I think we are all agreed that we cannot allow the worship of evil deities but I am equally sure that we will never reach agreement on the banning of chaotic deities as well.

"However, I do agree that some faiths are more disruptive than we would wish and probably should not be permitted to establish places of worship in our settlements.

"Rovagug and Lamashtu are utterly evil and therefore would be banned outright.

"Gorum is the god of strength, battle and weapons, attracting worshippers among soldiers, mercenaries, brigands, bloodthirsty savages, half-orcs and barbarians. He is in a similar position to Besmara, as far as I can see. This Council is not likely to agree to ban his worship, regardless of the personal opinions of lawful clerics like you and I. His worshippers will be judged for their actions, not their faith, but I would not wish to see a temple of Gorum built in Tusk.

"Neither would I wish to see a temple of Calistria - the goddess of Trickery, Lust and Revenge - but again I do not expect this Council to ban her worship entirely.

"Desna is the goddess of Dreams, Luck, Stars and Travelers. She would be one of the most benevolent of the chaotic deities and I would expect there is no chance this Council would agree to ban her worship.

"As for Asmodeus, however much some of us might grudgingly respect the aspect of him that is the Prince of Law, there is no way I would wish his harsh and brutal interpretation of the law to hold sway anywhere in Midmarch."

The elderly woman gives the Council her best stern teacher look.

"Let us not presume authority we do not have here. Lord Henry has asked our opinion on three specific faiths, not to rule on every religion we might have theological differences with. Should he require our opinion on another faith, he can always ask us. And let us not get bogged down in metaphysical arguments either, but simply look at the actions of the followers of these faiths."

"Gyronna's cults spread hate, strife and ultimately destruction wherever they appear. They gleefully take credit for the destructions of the city of Heibarr, a city that was once not unlike Tusk, and not very far from here either. To tolerate Gyronna would be to invite the same fate, and as such  any worship of her should be prohibited and its cults rooted out."

"The other two are a lesser problem in comparison. Hanspur has ritual murder as one of its rites, and Besmara has piracy at the heart of its creed. Even if we could turns the attention of her followers against foreign targets, I doubt that would make us particularly popular among our neighbors. As such, my opinion is that building places of worship or openly preaching either of these two should be proscribed."

"But, I would not go so far as to forbid private worship of Hanspur or Besmara. Should their followers start drowning folks, or engaging in piracy or banditry, they should be dealt with as any other law breaker. But their worship alone I feel should not be cause enough for prosecution. If we ultimately find this to be insufficient, we can always proscribe their worship as well."

"And the Lady Aranel brings us back to our purpose.  We have had a wide-ranging discussion  on the merits of various solutions, However, I will take a vote  on the three deities specifically raised. Gyronna, Hanspur and Besmara.

For the sake of clarity, I will ask that you each give me your view on each of them.

Should they be forbidden to build places of worship in Midmarch?  Please vote now ..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:36, Fri 12 June 2020.

"Nay!" Kendrick said in a loud, clear voice. There was no question where he stood in this discussion.

Andalon looks surprised by Kendrick's outburst.

"Are you feeling well, Sir Kendrick? You sound a little horse.

"My vote is yes, but with some minor clarification.

"Places of worship of Gyronna should be forbidden in Midmarch, and we should add all other evil deities to that list.

"Places of worship of Hanspur and Besmara larger than a small, private shrine should be forbidden in Midmarch."

"My vote is aye, we should forbid all three their temples," Ethankos gives his answer to the Lady Aranel, equally as certain in his stance on the matter as is Kendrick, if of the opposite view.

"Without clarification," the large man grins once more at Andalon.

"I would tend to agree with Lord Kendrick, the banning of worship of any diety is asking for trouble.

Gyronna is the type of goddess who bring's more ill than good so I support the ban.

Besmara is a goddess of the sea, her centre of power is far from here, I feel a ban upon her isn't really necessary.

Finally Hanspur, he is the master of the Sellen river and most of the waterways in the area, I would support His Grace and only allow shrines to appease his wrath.

"Yes, all three should be forbidden from building places of worship here. Of course, I doubt Gyronna's followers would have bothered asking for permission in the first place, so we should be on our guard against her cults cropping up."

In reply to Kendrick Winters (msg # 28):

Kendrick looked confused. "What's so funny? The religions for considerations should be banned. My answer if they should be allowed is 'Nay'."

Alisa winked at Sir Kendrick, "While I won't presume to speak for him, I think Bishop de Lebeda is just having a little fun with you, good paladin."   

As to her own vote - "I admit readily, my own experience is solely as an itinerant and independent priestess.  It would be easy for me to become passionate about this, and address it strictly from a level of faith, and vote to bar and ban all three wholesale.  However, I don't believe any faith is well served by losing sight of the big picture, and excluding the social, political and other aspects of such a matter."   

"As I said earlier, inspiring grudges and compelling secretive practice could lead to more bloodshed and death.  So, I'm in agreement with the bishop as to Hanspur and Besmara - allow them a small, formal presence; one that can be watched.   And as to Gyronna, I can but repeat what I said earlier, and what others have said:  too twisted and malicious to be allowed any presence."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:41, Sat 13 June 2020.

"Ah, forgive me, Sir Kendrick," Andalon replied, sounding genuinely apologetic. "The question we were asked to vote on was 'Should they be forbidden to build places of worship in Midmarch?' Your answer confused me."

"I agree we should ban the worship of evil deities like Gyronna outright."

"However, non-evil deities like Hanspur and Besmara are a different matter. I agree with what Aranel said earlier, building places of worship or openly preaching either of these two should be proscribed. But like it or not, those deities do still exist and I would not blame a fisherman or river trader for privately offering a prayer to appease either of those gods before sailing on the river. I would not wish to see such folk punished for maintaining a small, private shrine on their boat or in their home or office either. Punish them for drowning someone or for acts of piracy, certainly, but not for just looking for some sort of insurance against acts of gods."

That appears to be a resounding ban for Gyronna and a split decision for both Hanspur and Besmara.

I'll leave the thread open for a bit longer, as there are still a couple of PC priests who have not voted.  Each and every priest is allowed a vote, even if it contradicts a vote cast by someone else of the same faith.  There are many ways to interpret any faith :)

Jensen scratched at the scruff on his face. His attempts at growing a beard were failing because his facial hair proved too fine.

“I want to say ban them all and be done. But what you say about limited shrines for non-evil deities seems the most fair. I vote to ban Gyronna and limit the others.”

Bart looks around the room for other votes, before he says, "That nudges it in favour of banning Gyronna outright and allowing private worship, such as small shrines, for both Hanspur and Besmara.  I will ask Henry to amend the Midmarch Legal Charter accordingly."

---

---

Shortly after the previous meeting, Lord Borric calls everyone together again.  "In recognition of our work so far, Henry has suggested that we should build a settlement devoted to the gods, perhaps called Kunlun.  He will donate land for us to use, and has suggested somewhere between Silverton and New Dawn and will, build  a meeting hall for our use.  He invites us to build Shrines, Holy Houses and other such establishments, to make Kunlun a place of pilgrimage for the people of Midmarch.


What are your thoughts on this?  The house of Iomedae is prepared to contribute by building a watchtower, emblazoned with The Inheritor's sword, to act as our shrine."

---

OOC:

• Proposed location is Hex 22.
• Kunlun is the name is a 'home of the gods' from Chinese mythology.
• Multiple religious buildings of the same type are permitted (so long as they are dedicated to different deities)
• The hall will be a 'Guild hall' from this page http://rp.baileymail.net/doku....s2:busorgs:societies and you will be allowed to build small shrines as part of the development.
• You will be allowed to develop 'suitable' shrines.  ie Cayden with a Tavern that incorporates a shrine.
• Perhaps (eventually) a Library to hold sets of religious books?

"In principle, yes, the Cathedral of Abadar would be happy to establish a shrine at the proposed Kunlun site. It will depend upon our other investments to determine whether we can afford to do so this year, of course, but if we can, we will," Andalon replied.

Borric nods.  "We have plenty of time ...".
This message was lightly edited by the player at 15:45, Mon 22 June 2020.

Andalon bent his head to listen to something Brother Florin was trying to tell him, then he smiled.

"Brother Florin assures me that we will indeed have the resources needed to establish an Abadaran shrine at the proposed Kunlun site this year."

For Alisa's rekindling religion, this was entirely good news.   An opportunity to establish a peer presence amongst the formally acknowledged faiths of the land.

"In general, I think this is a wonderful idea, and support it wholeheartedly.   Though, unfortunately, I doubt my own faith would be able to participate in this year." 

OOC

So far at Kunlun

1. Iomedae will build a tower / Shrine.
   
2. Henry will build a Hall
   
3. Abadar will build a shrine.

You guys may not have noticed the changes I made to the Religious Buildings List. I added a great shrine, which makes for a slightly smoother upgrade path.

http://rp.baileymail.net/doku....eligiouorganisations

Ethankos listens to his fellow priests discussion for some time before weighing into the conversation.

"A worthy endeavour indeed," he agrees in a low rumble, echoing Alysa's sentiment, "yet if we are to entice pilgrims to this Kunlun, then they will need food and shelter while they are there."

"Those of us who serve the Mother of Souls care for the needs of the living as much as those of the dead ... I believe I might be able to call in some favours and see to the establishment of a tavern, which might one day grow to serve the needs of the many as more shrines are established in Kunlun."

Extra development at Kunlun is now suspended until the next Campaign Round.

Thaddeus stood before the council once again a question on his lips. "If I may have a moment of the council's time I wish to know what is the status of religious organisation with regard to the Sootscale Kobolds?  Commonly Kobolds are aligned with the nefarious powers yet we have an enclave in the heart of Midmarch.  To which divinity are they aligned and have efforts been made to bring them to more good aligned dieties?"

"There is a special arrangement with the Sootscale kobolds that is essentially a peace treaty dating back to when their previous, hostile, kobold leader was defeated by some of Lord Henry's folk and agreement was reached to benefit from development of their silver mine. No one from outside is allowed in without permission, so religious missionaries are not able to enter at will and would probably not be tolerated. Those particular kobolds keep to themselves, don't represent a threat to the rest of Midmarch, and are actually an economic and defensive ally of Midmarch, defending a section of our southern border as they do. Lord Henry would not be pleased if any of us stirred up a rebellion by trying to convert those kobolds to worship our human gods," Andalon explained.

"Ah, my thanks for the explanation Lord Bishop, however it does bring a few of points up.  We as a council have debated the banning of evil deities within Midmarch, are the Sootscales outside the laws of Midmarch? Also if the church of Gyronna was to build a shrine within the Sootscale lands do we have recourse to take action?  Finally I ask are we not called by our gods to bring light to the darkness?  Civilisation to the barbarians and faith to the wicked?
This message was last updated by the player at 16:03, Fri 03 July 2020.

"I'm not." Brother Bart responds quietly.  "The Grey Lady asks that I oppose undeath and bring succour to those who have been bereaved.  But she does not ask me to interfere with anybody else's faith."

"Followers of Abadar wish to bring the light of civilization to the wilderness, to help educate all in the benefits of law and properly regulated commerce. To a certain extent there has already been considerable progress towards those goals with the Sootscale kobolds. That is enough for now, particularly if that is the best way to preserve peace and prosperity in our lands.

"At some point in the future you may succeed in persuading Lord Henry that you should be allowed to enter the Sootscale lands to enlighten those kobolds. But until then, we stay out of those lands unless invited in. I think you will find Lord Henry currently has more pressing matters upon his mind and will not welcome such as suggestion regarding the Sootscales."

"Forgive me Bishop but I don't seek action at this time merely to open discourse on the matter.  With the events to our north and south I suspect the treaty is more important than ever.

I'm not really sure that the Light of the Crusader is the best way to begin the process to be honest.  Perhaps a priest of Apsu may be more favourably aligned.

Built at Kunlun this turn

    Iomedae will build a tower / Shrine.
    Henry will build a Hall
    Abadar will build a shrine.
    Pharasma (Ethankos) will build a tavern (With a view to add a shrine later)

Added to SS
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:31, Sun 05 July 2020.

My lord Bishop and esteemed clergy of Midmarch and Tusk, given the recent recognition of Tusk as an independent city and the propsed Marcher lords I was wondering if the council will be expanded to include those areas or will it be upto the seperate rulers of those areas to decide whether to accept the rulings of the council?"

"The Religious Council's role for Midmarch and Tusk hasn't changed, and I anticipate that the same opportunity would be extended to clerics from any future Marcher Lordships sponsored by Midmarch or Tusk," Andalon advised.

"This Religious Council is essentially just an open forum for all clerics from those areas who wish to participate, to discuss religious matters and agree on this Council's position on those matters and the advice to be given by this Council to the Viscount Midmarch, the City Council and those future Marcher Lords. We do not have any legal authority to impose our agreed position on religious matters in Midmarch, Tusk or the future Marcher Lordships; we can only provide advice and trust that they will implement our recommendations as appropriate.

"Theoretically, I suppose if we encounter a problem in future with the way a particular authority is dealing with religious matters we may collectively decide that more direct action is called for. But that is something we will address when the time comes."

Brother Bart nods as Andalon speaks, then confirms his words.  "That echoes Lord Henry's view of the council as well.  As the Midmarch Religious Council, our discussions and decisions were noted and then passed to Henry for him to decide on what action to take.  In  most religious matters he chose to listen to our advice.  For Midmarch nothing has changed in that respect.

As the good Bishop said, the same will happen in Tusk.  While I hope that Tusk council listen to the views of the council, and I am sure that with Andalon's guidance they will, any decision remain a matter for the council.

Equally, priests from other lordships, such as March-Holds   will be welcome to attend our meeting.  What the Lord, who makes the decisions, decides is their business.  I can foresee a day when we have different religious 'guidelines' in different areas.  But, that is very much the way of the world."

Brother Bart shuffles his papers, then opens proceedings, "We have a request, from Alisa Meveyed-Solanus, to build a Great Shrine, dedicated to Acavna in Kunlun.  What are your views on this?"

OOC:  This council is open to every character (PC and NPC) with a class capable of casting divine spells.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:38, Mon 21 Dec 2020.

Rising from his seat Thaddeus raised a hand to speak"I'm sorry Brother but I don't quiet understand, Lady Alisa is an accepted member of the council why would we not allow her to build a shrine to her goddess? "

Andalon smiled at Thaddeus's question then followed his example of raising his hand and rising to speak.

"I believe Brother Bart is simply following protocol, Brother Thaddeus. Kunlun is open to all faiths that are not proscribed in the Southern Region, but none of us should simply presume that our own faith's wishes can automatically be accommodated straight away. I will vote in favour of the proposed Great Shrine of Acavna in Kunlun, but if anyone else wishes to debate it they have the right to do so.

"While I am on my feet, I will also table a proposal to upgrade our Shrine of Abadar in Kunlun to a Great Shrine, as well. That, too, is open for discussion if anyone wishes to talk about it."

An advocate of V&A rises to his feet. "Greetings, honored gentleman. I am Tobius Lodkova. Although our resources are strained at this moment, my employers at V&A are concerned about Kunlun. A place devoted to the varied religions is an enlightened approach, but I suspect that there isn't much enterprise involved in the venture. As such, we are asking for permission to build a combination of Tavern and Holy House dedicated to Cayden. It injects some much needed capital into the region, and promotes a deity who isn't given much credit in some circles. Thank you for listening."

 No-one is entirely certain how Vova doMedvyed turned up in the council. Certainly no-one actually went so far as to invite him and the generally prevailing theory seems to be that he wandered in drunk while no-one was looking, passed out under a bench and when he woke up, was able to ramble through enough of The Book of Magic to convince the guards that he was a priest of Nethys. Or at least someone Nethys has touched in the head firmly enough to constitute one.

 He's spent much of the meeting head-down on a lectern snoring, the side of his face stuck to a slightly sticky patch of wood while an unusually resplendent and staggeringly angry-looking peacock glares at him from the lectern immediately behind him (which it digs long, savage gashes in with its steel-shod spurs whenever anyone looks like they're about to try and move it), but when the proposal to build a tavern dedicated to Cayden is voiced allowed he jerks upright, swaying wildly and announces with almost complete coherence "We approve the motion to build a tavern in veneration of the Lucky Drunk." before his head slams back down onto the hardwood with an impressive 'clock' sound.

 Further snoring begins almost immediately.

She was a little late, but nonetheless got in in time to overhear Thaddeus and Andalon.

"Brother Thaddeus, thank you for that support.  But, I do understand why my proposition needs to be ratified by the council.   I'm not surprised, nor insulted.  And if there are any who have concerns or doubts, I think this is a good time to learn and address those personally."

On matter of the temple-tavern:

"There's little doubt, I believe, that it would bring needed revenues to Kunlun.  And, in my own travels, I've found the Drunken Hero to be well revered by more than a few influential and notable people. Some of those trusted friends. I'm inclined to vote in favor."    She glanced at the fellow who'd passed out and begun snoring, one brow faintly arched.   But then her gaze fell upon the peacock.

"Oh, how beautiful," she said almost reverently, walking a little nearer, for a better look -- until she saw the eyes.  She put up her hands placatingly, began backing away:

"Okay. You're not having a good day.  I can see that. This isn't a good time..."

Andalon looked a little puzzled.

"Thank you Tobias, but Kunlun does have a tavern already, thanks to Ethankos and the church of Pharasma. Rather quiet most of the time, I grant you, but more than sufficient for our needs when we visit Kunlun. Although I certainly have no objection to Cayden Cailean being represented here the same as any other deity that is not actually proscribed in the Southern Region."

With a glance at the snoring man he quietly asks those assembled, "Does anyone know who this fellow is? I don't think I have met him before."

"I believe Ethankos has converted his tavern into a restaurant." Bart supplies the latest updates, "Something about good, and hearty, food keeping the body and soul together ..."

He, too, looks over at the snoring man and shakes his head slightly.

There's something to be said for how nervous Marceline felt despite the council being almost entirely of her peers. Perhaps it was her more unorthodox way of doing thing.

"Greetings honored fellows; My name is Marceline Gray, Inquisitor of the Gray Lady. I am in the process of funding construction for a military school in Silverton; my plan is to make it a training ground for the hunting down and destruction of undead found in the wilds of the River Kingdoms."

Well. That wasn't too bad, all things considered. It probably helped that the absurdity of the drunkard had been so unexpected that there was no proper response.

 The peacock in question is a big damn' bird by domestic standards, being somewhat larger than a rooster even before one takes into account its marvellous train of iridescent feathers... The bright, vivid blue of its plumage contrasts sharply with the mottled monochrome of its wings and if it weren't for the fact that it appears to be contemplating the best way to kill, stuff and mount the man snoring on the lectern in front of him, it would probably make for an excellent sacred animal for Shelyn... As it is, the unkind would suggest him to have ties to Rovagug before grudgingly admitting that Nethys would be more likely.

 Alisa does however - after a hard, angry look - get a brief, conciliatory sort of squawk before the bird goes back to contemplating what is presumably its companion.

 Andalon meanwhile, receives no answers from the snoring quarter, although someone may recognise the lush if they've a particular familiarity with the extended doMedvyed family.

Andalon spoke briefly to one of the guards before nodding and returning to the conversation.

"They didn't catch our snoring friend's name but they think he is one of the clergy of Nethys. Just in case his snoring worsens, does anyone have a spell of Silence prepared today?" he asks. "If not I am sure someone will be able to Create Water."

There is definitely a hint of a smile on his face at that suggestion but he does not pursue it further at this point in time.

"Thank you Brother Bart. I hadn't heard of Ethankos's decision but that will work well if V&A do proceed with a tavern and shrine to Cayden Cailean."

"Marceline, allow me to welcome you to this assembly. I am very pleased to hear of your plans. If you ever need our help dealing with any undead you discover, I would be very pleased to offer my assistance."

 The proposal to douse his companion with water earns a sadistic squonk sound of agreement from the peacock which could be assumed by the charitable to represent a 'yay' vote.

She laughed faintly and shortly at the bishop's jest.   Semi-jest?  Maybe, he really would douse him...

She regarded the inebriated man, and a memory stirred.   Something she'd overheard, back home, about a wastrel, a rake, with a peacock in tow...

"I think he's like me," she began.  And then realized how that might be misconstrued.

"I mean, I'm not like that," she amended hastily. "But, I believe he's distant kin of Medvyed." On the heels of saying so she wanted to slap her forehead.  Acavna! Why did I even mention it?  No one needs to know that, while I'm trying to establish credibility...

The council meeting is interrupted  as a large half-orc walks into the room.   Some of you will recognize him as Bigjob - ex-bandit, friend of Pipre and a bouncer at  The Bottled Nymph (A brothel) in the Port Henry district of Tusk.

Bigjob walks into the council chamber  and empties his sack onto the main  table.  A fist-sized gemstone tumbles out, glinting in the light.  It vaguely resembles a human eye.

"I was sent from Outpost.  They had a killing there and when we investigated we found a priestess and this.  The priest at Outpost thinks it is something to do with Gyrona.  The priestess and some of her cult are dead, but Lt Ress wants to know what to do with the others?  Should he execute them?  Brand them?  Or do you guys want to deal with it personally?"
This message was last updated by the GM at 08:34, Thu 07 Jan 2021.

A halfling at the back of the room stands and clears his throat loudly.

"I don't often speak at these meetings, but that is very close to my own town of Oston.  I will send one of my acolytes over to Outpost, as soon as I get back. They will stay to help spread the word of Old Deadeye  among the people there."

Andalon rose from his seat and moved forward to inspect the gemstone. He recited the words of a very familiar orison (Detect Magic) and studied the gemstone closely.

Cyrus didn’t enjoy these meetings when he attended them with Gandred, but this one had taken a turn that made him lean forward. He waited for Andalon to examine the gem and nudged Gandred to see his reaction.

PM

Brother Lutz sat up in his seat when the half-orc came in to announce the news. Before that, he'd only been halfway paying attention to the proceedings with the rest of his attention on the slovenly human laying on the ground; Lutz enjoyed his ale as much as the next dwarf, but allowing oneself to get that drunk was utterly irresponsible.

As Andalon takes the gem to examine, he asks, "Lord Andalon, may I look at the gem once you have examined it? I have some experience with gems and may be able to identify some of its mundane qualities as well. As for the survivors, I would recommend they be brought here for interrogation, or perhaps we send a contingent to Outpost to do so."
This message was last updated by the player at 16:33, Thu 07 Jan 2021.

Andalon finished his inspection and handed the gemstone to Brother Lutz.

"Gyrona's priestesses - yes, all her clerics are female - don't build chapels or temples or the like, but just small shrines of simple piled stones. Some of these piles have cat's-eye gemstones on top or a painted representation of one, from which it is rumored Gyronna may peer and curse defilers of the shrine. When this stone has been examined I can take it back to the cathedral to be purified, unless you all simply wish to smash it.

"Gyronna's priestesses are renowned for their ability to foster hatred and turn friend against friend, and are not above simply killing someone in cold blood if it betters suits their purpose. The priestess is dead, which is a fitting punishment for her crimes. The followers that have been captured may be ardent worshipers of that evil goddess, or they may simply be misguided or victims of the priestess's manipulation. They should be questioned to determine their involvement and whether they are willing to repent. Bring them here and I will call upon Abadar to grant me the power to discern lies, if necessary. Some may deserve to be executed, or imprisoned, or some other punishment. Others may yet be saved."

OOC: Be aware that V&A cannot build the Tavwrn/Holy House in Kunlun THIS turn. Too much bp tied up in other projects. This is a forewarning of plans for next session.

Noted.

Unless the bank of Adabar has THAT MUCH to loan?

Lutz takes the gemstone and examines it as he listens to Andalon explain what he knows about Gyrona and her priestesses.

17:06, Today: ~Brother Lutz Stigmar rolled 22 using 1d20+7.  Appraise

PM

Lutz looks at the gem for a moment and then hands it back to Andalon with a shrug, "It's a nice gem, worth a fair amount, but nothing especially unique about it."

Alisa arose and spoke:

"Her cult is a particularly sick one.  It preys upon and recruits abused, broken, and shattered women.  Some of her followers are the evil, while others are more truly its victim.   As the bishop implied, I believe assessing these women is the right thing to do.   If even one of them may be swerved from the awful path they are treading, it will be time well invested.  I would volunteer to speak with them, and see what can be discerned, if the council will approve it. I will not be doing any interrogating, however."   

She walked nearer the bishop.

"I have the spell for detecting the presence of evil - may I?" she inquired, meaning the stone.

Unless any reason not, will cast detect evil on the gem.   
This message was last edited by the player at 04:25, Fri 08 Jan 2021.

PM

After performing the spell her eyes narrowed in distaste, and she nodded once in confirmation.

"Aye. Just a very faint tinge - but it's there."

"I suspected there might be something like that," Andalon responded. "Don't worry, we can certainly remedy that tomorrow. Then it will just be a gemstone that can be turned into cash to assist with reparations at Outpost."

Alisa nodded, well satisfied with that proposal.

"And I meant it," she reemphasized, "If it's appropriate and helpful, then I am asking to be allowed to interview those women, and aid in sorting the dupes and victims from the true fanatics."   

“Your assistance will be most welcome, Priestess,” Andalon assured Alisa.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:45, Thu 28 Jan 2021.

The representative of the church of Andoletta and Councilor of the Vallani holdings brings another issue to the Council.

"A proposal has been made by mistress Vallani to build a shrine to Jalaijatali, the goddess of waterfalls and rapids, at the site of the great waterfall in the town of Feyfalls. Rather an exotic choice, but not entirely inappropriate given the waterfalls and rapids that Vallani towns are build around. Mistress Vallani also hopes, rather optimistically I must say, that worship of Jalaijatali may eventually present a more socially acceptable - and less murderous - alternative to Hanspur."

"As such I would like to hear if there are any objections to this from the Council."


There's not a hell of a lot that can be found on Jalaijatali, but she is CG and does seem like a good fit for towns literally build around waterfalls:

https://pathfinderwiki.com/wiki/Jalaijatali
https://www.aonprd.com/DeityDi...ItemName=Jalaijatali

Are there any objections to this? If not I'll go ahead and build a shrine.

Bishop Andalon looks a little surprised at the deity that has been named but after a few moments' thought he nods acceptance.

"I think we can find a place for almost all deities in Midmarch who are not numbered among the forces of evil. I have no objection to mistress Vallani's proposal and I wish her well for her hopes of displacing Hanspur from these waters."

Brother Thaddeus rubbed his earlobe in thought before standing to address the group.  "I have been asked to represent Lady Alisa in this matter as she is currently unable to travel, we hope and pray that the impending birth is smooth and without complications.  House Solanus would support House Vallani in this endeavour and looks forward to easier access to Restov.

Jalaijatali isn't very well known within the stolen lands so we look forward to learning more about her in the future, will there be a representative sent to join this august body?"

"At the moment only a shrine tended by an acolyte if planned for, and no formal presence of the new faith in the Council." Aranel answers Brother Thaddeus question.

Probably not as a (eventually great) shrine is all I'm going for here. Any more would require an NPC and would bring in complications regarding spending the income appropriately.

Brother Bart nods along with the other two.  "It is certainly permissible within our laws, and I can see no reason why Henry would object.

This, well... wasn't usually a place she actually came to- but well... she -did- have something in the works.  But then again, her own faith had seen herthrough a number of things, and it was time Ki felt like she had to repay that debt... and she always did pay them.

At least she was dressed nicely, though- in a nice dress, and her hair up- though the yellow and black ribbon worked into the braid was a new touch- as was the scroll she was bearing in her hands.

Though she'd wait to be acknowledged.  One didn't irritate the local representatives of the gods if one couldn't help it...


OOC: I think I found some other stuff on Jalaijatali- it's on another device so I'll have to go dig that up and see if I can find it.  It wasn't much, but it was something...  I'll do a little more rummaging and see if there's any other scrap I can find.

Andalon smiled and raised his hand in greeting to Kiera, then beckoned her forward.

"You are welcome to join us, Kiera. I know you have some news that might interest this Midmarch Religious Council. Are you here to share that news with those who haven't heard yet?"

Giving Andalon a smile- though a quiet one- she nods.

"...I wanted to give you some advance warning, just in case people started coming to you and pointing fingers or something- you've done good things in making sure nobody's really been feeling all too persecuted about who they worship, and you can count both me and my friend Rila under that number.

The Bishop knows of the new business district opening up, in the northeast of Tusk- I'm opening some things there- and one of them will be a brothel with a shrine to Calistria attached to it.  I think there will be an acolyte or something coming to tend to it, but given that some don't see really eye-to-eye with the Lady in the Room- and some of her teachings- I wanted to let you know ahead of time.

The cost is coming out of my own pocket, as well.

I'm hoping if they do send someone to see to it, that it's not going to create too much of a ripple- and that also you'll see it as an opportunity."

OOC: It will be a Great Shrine, geared towards Calistria's more CG aspects if she has anything to say to it.  I'm not sure if that comes with an acolyte or someone to tend to it, though.

OOC:  It comes with all the nameless NPC, that you need to run it.  So there will be a few adepts and sacred prostitutes - the manager is probably an Adept/Expert - who might still work 'in the business' occasionally.

Nameless NPCs just represents all those background NPCs with  standard stats and few exciting skills.  You can always give them a name for RP purposes.  Or you could specifically take an entourage to fill that role for you, allowing you to RP them.  NOTE:  This is a Family game so, in this case, the RP would not be able to explore all aspects of his/her work.

A few days after Andalon and Ethankos and friends returned from their mission to Varnhold, Andalon addressed the Midmarch Religious Council.

"My friends, we are brothers and sisters together in service to many of the deities of these lands. I have a matter that needs to be discussed with you to determine the best way to deal with it.

"You have probably already heard that we fought and defeated a lich in the final stage of our mission to Varnhold and beyond. After the lich was slain, one of the lich's eyes still glowed with a spark of red light within it, and we determined it has an overwhelming magical aura. Kendrick cut that evil thing out of the lich's skull, on my suggestion, I regret to say, but when he plucked it out, the accursed thing seized control of his mind. Kendrick plucked out his own eye before we could stop him and would have thrust that evil orb into his own eye socket if we had not managed to restrain him. I had to use a scroll of Break Enchantment to free his mind from the grip of that evil eye. The experience has left Kendrick terribly shaken. I think he means to retire to his estate and try to come to terms with what he went through.

"The magical aura of that evil eyeball is so strong that we think it may even be an evil artefact. We have it safely contained, for now, but I bring this matter before the Midmarch Religious Council, so that together we can determine the best way to destroy it or permanently neutralise it."

Lutz listened intently, with a quite grim look on his face. "I am no expert in curses or artifacts, but perhaps we could devise a box of some sort with magical wards to contain the accursed eye until a solution is identified? Might we also bring in some of the arcane experts within Midmarch as well? They might have some additional insight. New Dawn has an Arcane Academy with some magical researchers as well as quite an extensive arcane library that might be helpful."
This message was last updated by the player at 17:41, Thu 12 Jan 2023.

Alisa listened to this news with an expression that varied between that of an aggrieved friend and the full loathing a priestess felt for such a thing.   She was not looking forward to telling Domitius about this.

"This is terrible to hear! Praise Elysium you were on hand, Bishop, and that it wasn't any worse, at least."   She shook her head. "I wish I had some meaningful suggestion, but I've had no experience in dealing with unholy artifacts.  Lutz's suggestion seems a good, beginning idea.   While destroying it would be better, it'd surely be dangerous, when we don't know what we're doing.   Most things like that need to be destroyed a specific way, if I've heard right.  Hopefully, the lore can be found.  I'll volunteer to aid in research, if that's useful." 
This message was last edited by the player at 17:42, Thu 12 Jan 2023.

Marceline stands quietly as she absorbs the news about the accursed eye, unsure if the revulsion within her is her own or an echo of her patron goddess.

"Lich." She mutters through gritted teeth as she thinks back on numerous texts read about the unholy creatures but only able to offer speculation. "It's possible the eye is the creature's phylactery, given the aura and the insidious enchantment, but I am no expert; I have not fought such a creature, only read about them - my suggestion is to destroy it."

Andalon nodded at Lutz’s suggestion.

“Good idea, Brother Lutz. We will consult the Arcane Academy too, as you suggest.

“Fortunately we do not need to worry about the lich anymore, Marceline. We found and destroyed its phylactery before we left the tomb. The evil eyeball is something else entirely. Jensen was unable to damage it at all with his enchanted lucerne hammer, so we know it is going to be hard to destroy it. That is still my preference, though, so I will exhaust every avenue of research before simply agreeing to lock it away somewhere safe.”

Prioress Aranel weighs in on the discussion.

"You can also count on the support of the church of Andolleta in your efforts to destroy this foul thing. And if all our efforts fail, perhaps we could request help from abroad. The Pathfinder Society might have knowledge on how to do this. And the crusaders of Lastwall would have extensive experience in dealing with magical items of the undead."

After a while, a document is delivered to Brother Bart.  "Lord Henry has had some reach carried out.  It appears to be something known as an Eye of Abadon, one of the four horsemen.  Some say they were created by priests in years gone-by, others that they are a creation of the gods.  Regardless, they must be destroyed in Pharasma's Boneyard, and by someone who is permanently blind, crushing it with a holy weapon against their own gravestone".

He looks almost stunned by what he has just said, and sits quietly without an suggestions for how that might be accomplished.

Andalon sighed when Brother Bart read the report he had been handed.

"Well, I expected it to be difficult. But this?" he sighed again. "It seems we shall be guardians of this evil artifact for longer than any of us would wish. So where shall we store it? I will offer to seal it deep beneath the Cathedral of Abadar in Tusk, in a block of stone. We can bore a hole into the centre of that stone, drop the eye in and seal it with molten lead before burying it deep beneath the cathedral. I suspect that would be enough to block the influence of the eye upon anyone's mind and would make it extremely difficult for anyone mad enough to steal it away, but we would investigate suitable magical protections to further secure the accursed thing. Unless anyone else has a better suggestion?"

"No!  It must be destroyed.  I have lost one eye, and almost lost Iomedae's blessing to that thing.  I will sacrifice the other to ensure that I retain her favour.  I am sure that Rikka can make me a holy weapon, so all we need is a way to get there.

Lord Bishop, Lord Domitius has the service of a stone singer, she may be able to assist sealind the stone up until such time as we are ready to deal with it.

"The path to the destruction of this foul creation seems difficult, if not impossible," Ethankos moots, "but mayhap not ..."

"I spoke before of perhaps calling upon the Mother of Souls to dispatch one of her servants to aid us, and in light of these revelations, that still seems the most likely means to our end."

"Amongst Pharasma's servitors are numbered the Ahmuuths ... psychopomps that are charged to assist mortals in ushering the undead back to the afterlife." 

"These beings are, as I understand it, protected by a shield composed of shards of a gravestone, assumedly their own."

"There are other prayers that might aid us ... for one, a curse of permanent blindness, which might still be undone after."  The priest snorts.  "If permanence was all it should be then the dead would never rise from their graves, would they not ?!!"

"Another prayer might imbue an aura of holiness upon a weapon ... though I doubt that this would suffice - better we find or fashion a weapon that is dedicated to good, or still better, perform whatever ceremonies or rituals that might thus bless the dagger that the Ahmuuth itself wields."

"But even if my guesses are right and would suffice to destroy the Eye, there is no guarantee that the Ahmuuth would so serve ... and e'en so it may require some service in return."

OOC: Talking:

C4 Planar Ally, Lesser to summon an Ahmuuth (6HD) https://www.d20pfsrd.com/besti.../psychopomp-ahmuuth/ - doesn't say if the gravestones are its own or not, but it's a fair assumption
C3 Blindness/Deafness (duration listed as Permanent, but C3 Remove Blindness/Deafness can deal with that)
C2 Align Weapon - Good ... though I think we'd be better off with a Craft Magic Arms & Armor to add the Holy property to the Ahmuths +1 returning, undead-bane dagger

"Thank you, Brother Thaddeus. A stone singer may be very helpful," Andalon responded.

"Ethankos, the cost of making an Ahmuuth's dagger into a Holy weapon would be exorbitant. A +1 Holy sword would cost something like 9,000 gold to create, plus the cost of the masterwork weapon, or over 18,300 gold to purchase one. I don't think we have a Holy weapon anywhere in the Southern Region, and I'm not sure we have anyone who could create one yet.

"The spell of Blindness may be sufficient for that part of the requirements. We can research that further.

"Travel to Pharasma's Boneyard could be accomplished with a spell of Plane Shift. That much we can do, although it is likely to deliver us hundreds of miles away from our destination, and we would have the same problem on the return journey.

"As a priest of Pharasma yourself, can you enlighten us about the gravestones in Pharasma's Boneyard? Would a living man find his own gravestone waiting for him there, or must he have died already before his gravestone exists there?" he asks.

"Perhaps I can help with that." Brother Bart offers, "Açcording to my teachers, every one of us already has. Grave stone in The Boneyard.  For the living, it bears the name and date of birth.  The date of death is not added until the appropriate time, although it is said that dates are recorded in a strange manner that does not appear to correspond with a number system that we are familiar with."

"If the spell won't suffice," Ethankos bows to Andalon's superior knowledge of such things, "then I'd thought perhaps it might be possible to imbue the weapon itself, though as you say, the cost and the lack of skill would seem to preclude that." 

"However, I don't know that we are likely to find a Holy weapon in the Boneyard," he ruminates. "Death is a natural thing, neither good nor bad.  Such terms are meaningless except so far as they serve to guide the soul on to its final destination."

"Do we need to trust to the Stone Singer to secure the Eye until such time as we might procure a Holy weapon ?"

"It is said that the Boneyard itself is timeless, its lands immeasurable.  If we find ourselves far from where we need to be and it takes forever to get there, at least we'll not die of old age before we reach our destination !" Ethankos snorts.

"Though be cautioned, those days, months, even years will catch up with us when we return."

The priest nods at Brother Bart's recollection of the Boneyard's gravestones.

"The Graveyard of Souls stretches for more than a thousand miles," Ethankos rumbles.  "It is possible that each soul will be drawn towards their own stone marker ... if not, we should pray that there is a willing guide close to hand."  He looks to Marceline for confirmation of his understanding.

"There are spells which will draw a guide to us, at least they wil do so here in the land of the living.  Uwe can hope they work in the same way in the Boneyard.. Bart suggests, then with a slight grimace continues, "Both Mother Beatrix and I have access to those spells."

"Still the quest would seem more arduous and perhaps problematic than fraught with danger," Ethankos notes.  "There is also the threat of Candlemere which must be faced, and that likely the more perilous, if less difficult."

The priest grins broadly.  "Perhaps you and Mother Beatrix should toss a coin for the honour, as should Marceline and I ... save that I believe Lord Henry has his own thoughts on the matter of the disposition of us, his loyal troops."

Andalon sighs.

"There are many pieces of this puzzle, answers to many questions that must be found, before we can finally destroy this accursed Eye of Abadon. We will do it, eventually, but it will take time. We will secure the wretched thing beneath the Cathedral of Adadar until that can be done. I wish it could be accomplished swiftly, but logic tells me this is the only viable option that has been presented so far."

He looks around at the various religious representatives present at this Council meeting and smiles ruefully.

"Never would I welcome a better suggestion more than right now."

Marceline is quiet as it quickly becomes clear that destroying the unholy artifact might be currently beyond them - for the time being.

She sighs in mild frustration from that knowledge and looks at Andalon, nodding and says. "If it will be safest there, I have no arguments. If there's anything I can offer to help securing the artifact, it's yours." Looking to Ethankos she asks "Is there a way to entreat The Gray Lady? Surely we can do something?"

"Our Goddess does not reckon good nor evil," Ethankos replies to Marceline, "I think she will neither help nor hinder our efforts to destroy this foul thing."

"And speaking directly with the Lady of Graves is somewhat beyond my poor learning, while even the prayers I have heard of might provide a simple yeah or nay in reply."

"To be honest, I've always been rather suspicious of those who claim that their God speaks directly to them ..." the priest snorts with laughter.

She winced faintly at the Pharasmite's last statement.   Though uncertain the whispers and dream-sends she received counted as speech in the simplest definition of it. Her own experiences aside, she did grasp his view.

In any case, she claimed nothing, merely heard and learned. And then practiced and acted.  There'd been no temple to train at, no mortal priesthood to study under. Her capability as a cleric was its own testimony.