The general raised an eyebrow at Ceria’s comment about his armor. “Certainly when I was your age, I was more used to long days in the sun. My job now is mostly behind a desk or training others who wear the armor for me. More strategy and organization than actual combat, although I can certainly hold my own.” Aengus chuckled slightly before taking a sip of the tea. “And yes, we of Bourgund hold freedom as a very high ideal. That is, after all, what today’s celebration is about. The irony is that bureaucracy holds little freedom for any in its clutches, whether they are ruler or citizen.”

As the discussion moved towards those in the streets, Cavanaugh leaned forward, seeming to pay a bit more attention. “Normally, we pay little mind to doomsayers. Although that sort of speech is something I personally have little stomach for, our laws dictate that our citizens may say what they will, providing they do not bring harm to others. This law, in fact, is what draws such a wide citizenry to our walls, and thus brings clergy from nearly every order in the West.” The General directed this last statement towards Ulor. “However, if you seek a strong mage, whether of arcane or divine origin, your best bet is Bemmea in the Magocracy. Those of high attunement to their craft typically travel there, as they can find better profit or causes to work for. The clergy here simply serves the common folk.” 

The General set down his tea and approached the group, looking with some intrigue at the octopus and its companions. His gaze finally came to rest on the paladin. “Your question, good sir, is what I have called you here to discuss. As I said, normally religions are free to spout whatever nonsense they wish, provided no one gets hurt. However, rumors have arisen of a cult that follows Zehir. We believe that this cult may be organized, extending beyond these walls, and perhaps connected in some way to what transpired in the Fellmire. Their methods are subtle and cunning, and we have been unable to find either their base of operations or their next plans. We would like you to locate and infiltrate them, if possible, and determine whether any action should be taken against them.”

Loxim spoke up at this, although his interruption did not seem to annoy the General. “Be aware that we are not deputizing you for this mission,” he cautioned. “You still do not have authority to apprehend or mete justice, although we would expect you to defend yourselves, of course. Should you return successfully, a reward will be dispensed in accordance with the value of the information you bring.” He wrote as he spoke, his quill fluttering across his desk, and he didn’t even bother to make eye contact with the group. “Our best lead is a new representative from Allain: a half-orc artificer who set up shop a few blocks hence. Once she arrived, we began receiving complaints and started to find poisoned bodies in the streets. Thus far, we have no evidence against her, and anything we have heard could simply be coincidence, but it might be a good starting place.”