"Well to be clear there isn't a rule making anyone forbidden to enter Lux Mau's caves by our sanctuary or High Priest. However, that doesn't make is any less dangerous. The numerous cults that are rumored to control the mountain also control a network of trade. Magicite for various supplies makes for a powerful organization. We don't know if they have any other motives beyond living in the caves. Well that's not quite true, no one lives within the caves for a reason. Magicite has an effect on the mind, distorting how one sees the world. One would call it brainwashing but the effects depend on the individual. I myself possess Magicite in my staff; however, such a small amount hasn't proven to change me or how I see this world.
This is why we fear the cults of Lux Mau that dwell near this wellspring. In the worst scenario, they may believe themselves to be something more than mortals, with a Patron assuring their cause. Sacrifices of blood and souls are done at the peak of the mountain where they bleive themselves closer to the Goddess Shine. These are rumors of course but we can't take them lightly.
Tarva and Shuben are the two kingdoms that trade with these cults. But now that trade has stopped. We aren't sure why but we believe it's due to dispute between those two kingdoms. Shuben offers weaponry refined by ore while Tarva offer Crystals and Nethecite. Neither resources are going to that mountain now, making this the window we need to secure Magicite before any war does come.
We don't plan on trading with the cultists if we can avoid it. Keeping Navire out of their sights is of great importance. The reason is because of our King's blessing. He is given wisdom beyond his perspective. I can't go into detail of how he obtains his wisdom but I can say he knows not to trust those dwelling near Magicite. People disappear when they approach the mountain, those we sent before have not returned."
Cid observes those standing in the room, taking their various appearances into consideration as well as their number.
"I believe we're missing a few individuals from this party. If I remember correctly then there were four more who sent in applications. Perhaps their travel was delayed. I'll give them a few hours but in the mean time I'd like to formerly introduce myself. Also, it is time we lighten the mood. Cults are not a great conversation subject for a first impression.
I am Cid Highwind the second, son of Cid Highwind the first a marvelous inventor. My family has taken great care of this kingdom along side its Kings and Patrons for the last two generations. Like my father I've pledged loyalty to this land and to the Patron. It's my dream to see Navire prosper. So might I learn to know the remaining names of those who are helping me make this dream come true?"
Cid looked at the five people already in the room. A women who wears scanty armor, Galren Firelight a "geomancer" who spoke of Lux Mau, Wallas a "Mahngan" who appears like a badger, a mysterious warrior who traveled across the world, and a figure wearing bandages all over his face. The last of them chose not to speak as even his mouth was wrapped in gauze. The last individual has Cid's eye the longest. The Wizard wondered who'd chose to hide their appearance in that manor.