The Vices of the Mother Cardinal

The Vices of the Mother Cardinal
Details
Type:	Companion quest
Questline:	Petrus' Quests
Rewards:	+1000 XP +3 Reputation - Petrus
Next:	Dangerous Bets

The Vices of the Mother Cardinal is one of Petrus' companion quests in Greedfall. Speak with him after completing Old Countries in a New World.

Objectives

• Talk to Petrus again about his idea.
• Search the Cardinal's apartments.
• (Conditional) Ask for help from Commander Torsten.
• Find out what is hidden under the palace in San Matheus.
• (Optional) Disguise the team as servants.
• Question the innkeeper in San Matheus.
• Question the prostitutes.
• Question the bookmaker in San Matheus.
• Question the moneylender "the Magpie" in San Matheus.
• Find and question Candy Cane.

Dialogue

Talk to Petrus again about his idea

• Petrus: I’ve known the Mother Cardinal for quite some time, she is a formidable woman, gifted and diplomatically skilled. I fear that your cousin might be a little defenseless when dealing with her and would like to give him a few…weapons.
• De Sardet: What do you have in mind?
• Petrus: Diplomacy is not only a matter of formal encounters and choreographed etiquette. If we have the means to action more personal leverage, the Mother Cardinal could not manipulate your cousin.
• De Sardet: How could we ever find anything of that sort?
• Petrus: Everyone has nasty little secrets, my child. It’s our task to discover Cornelia’s.
  • Accept now
    • De Sardet: Very well, let’s go and discover what the Governor would rather keep hidden from the world.
    • Petrus: Excellent!
    • De Sardet: How would you like to go about this?
    • Petrus: We must search her apartments in Saint Matheus. They’ll be guarded, of course, but if we are discreet that shouldn’t be a problem.
    • De Sardet: This is taking quite a risk. The Congregation’s reputation could suffer if we’re caught, and my cousin’s position would be weakened.
    • Petrus: I know, but keep in mind that I know the palace extremely well. And if we want to be sure to pass without being noticed, we need only dress ourselves up as servants.
    • De Sardet: That would improve our chances. Well, let’s do it.
  • Put it off until later
    • De Sardet: It is a very good idea, but alas I have other problems to resolve first.
    • Petrus: I understand. Come and find me when you are ready.

Find out what is hidden under the palace in San Matheus

• (If entering the basement without servant’s outfits on)
  • House Boy: This area of the palace is forbidden to visitors! By order of the Mother Cardinal!
  • De Sardet: We did not know. Please excuse us.
  • House Boy: The basements are for servants only.
  • De Sardet: Very well. We’ll go back up.

• Petrus: Ah, well… This is a very unique place. The smell of stupor and vice reign as its masters.
• De Sardet: You’re not wrong. We should search this place.
• (Upon examining the bottle on the table)
  • De Sardet: Oh, for goodness’ sake! This room reeks of alcohol!
  • Petrus: And not just any old alcohol, if my nose does not deceive me. Cornelia always had great taste when it came to drinking.
• (Upon examining the earring on the floor)
  • De Sardet: It seems that someone forgot their earring.
  • Petrus: Ugh, here is an object of more than questionable taste; a woman from a good family would never wear it. It’s junk, the kind of thing a courtesan would wear.
  • De Sardet: I didn’t know you were an expert on the subject, Father.
  • Petrus: The subject of jewelry?
  • De Sardet: No, of courtesans.
  • Petrus: We are here at the heart of human depravity. Outrageous luxury, excessively-priced alcohol, obvious debauchery…
  • De Sardet: Surely this is enough to incriminate the Mother Cardinal?
  • Petrus: No, my child. These things are common in certain circles, even in Thélème, unfortunately. Cornelia may well have organized these things for others. These parties might be of use in gaining some political favor. We must find out who is involved and learn more.
  • De Sardet: The earring that we found may help us with that. We could ask at the brothel if it belongs to a prostitute.
  • Petrus: We should continue searching, perhaps we missed something.

• (Upon finding Mother Cardinal Cornelia’s Account Book in the locked room)
  • Petrus: This document is highly important. By reading it carefully, you could learn a lot. The Mother Cardinal apparently borrows large amounts of money from a moneylender. Actually, enormous sums.
  • De Sardet: What’s more, she does so quite regularly. How does she manage to give it all back?
  • Petrus: Hmm, and the name “Candy Cane” crops up several times. Quite suspicious, don’t you think?
  • De Sardet: This “sweet” person must be doing her huge favors to get these sums. I think we have everything we need. There is probably a connection between these pleasure parties and the account books. Let’s ask a few questions.
  • Petrus: The moneylender is well-established. He can be found near the main square. As for this “Candy Cane,” the name doesn’t ring any bells to me, but the moneylender must know more about him.
  • De Sardet: We can also go and gather information at the Coin Tavern. Perhaps the manager knows him.

Question the innkeeper in San Matheus

(Before questioning the prostitutes)

• Innkeeper: Can I get you anything?
• De Sardet: I’m here for something else. Can I ask you a couple questions?
• Innkeeper: If you wish. What would you like to know?
• Mention the Mother Cardinal
  • De Sardet: Do you think that the Mother Cardinal may have ever been here?
  • Innkeeper: (laughs) Are you drunk or something?
• Interrogate him on his big clients
  • De Sardet: You sometimes deliver goods to your big clients, isn’t that right?
  • Innkeeper: Of course! The rich don’t like to get drunk among mere mortals.
  • De Sardet: And have you ever supplied anyone from the palace?
  • Innkeeper:Yes, that has happened. It suits them.
  • De Sardet: And who places these orders?
  • Innkeeper: Well, a steward, of course. Don’t you know how things work?
  • De Sardet: A woman? Dressed in a long, green cloak?
  • Innkeeper: No, the steward is more discreet. On the other hand, the person in the big green coat…The steward speaks to her sometimes. They know each other or work together.
• Find out about Candy Cane
  • De Sardet: What can you tell me about a certain “Candy Cane”?
  • Innkeeper: Candy Cane? Everyone speaks about him or has heard of him, but no one really knows him.
  • De Sardet: And what do they say about him?
  • Innkeeper: Here? Nothing. You need to go downstairs for that sort of thing.
  • De Sardet: To the games room and the brothel?
  • Innkeeper: Yes, that’s more the kind of place where they’d talk about him.
  • De Sardet: I have to go. I will leave you to your work.

(After questioning the prostitutes)

• Innkeeper: Look who it is. I feel that, once again, you’re not here to support my business.
• Ask about the woman in a green coat
  • De Sardet: I’m looking for a woman who comes here. She always wears a long, green coat.
  • Innkeeper: Yes, I have seen this coat before, but I have no idea who is beneath it, if that’s what you’re asking. All I know is that I've seen her speaking to a regular: a steward of the palace, who comes to place big orders. Always prime choice.

Question the prostitutes

• Pimp: So, have you found what you were looking for?
• De Sardet: Let’s just say that I’m gathering information.
• Pimp: My treasures are worth their price. I promise you that you will get your money’s worth. For you, I’m sure we can make a…special arrangement.
  • Pay (50 gold)
    • De Sardet: Here you are.
    • Pimp: Thank you, my lady. I’ll let you take your pick.
    • De Sardet: Thank you.
  • Intuition (1) - Let Petrus intervene
    • De Sardet: Father, do you want to explain to this man why we are here?
    • Petrus: Of course. We are not here for your…services, but to lead an investigation. Several clients of yours have made a complaint: precious objects disappearing after your…employees’ visits.
    • De Sardet: People in very high places are concerned, which explains why we’ve been asked to take care of it.
    • Pimp: This cannot be... I… Well, listen, come in, but please be discreet!
    • Petrus: Thank you for your cooperation.
  • Refuse
    • De Sardet: Maybe later.
    • Pimp: You won’t be disappointed!

• Prostitute: Look, a new face. Oh, but wouldn’t that be… Hello, Father.
• Petrus: I… Oh, hello.
• De Sardet: Hmm. We would like to know if you know who this earring belongs to. Is it maybe yours?
• Prostitute: Absolutely not. I am careful not to leave my belongings with clients. And I have no desire to answer your questions. That doesn’t fall within my…services.
• De Sardet: Very well. Goodbye.

• Prostitute: Hi… Well, here’s someone new. What can I do for you, pretty face?
• De Sardet: I wanted to know who this earring belongs to.
• Prostitute: Oh, this really isn’t my day. Show me, pretty face. Huh… Given the way it shines, it must be a piece of junk. It probably belongs to one of the girls, it’s really their style. Well, if that’s all you’re here for, I’d rather get back to the grind.

• Prostitute: There are too many of you for me alone, my little lambs.
• De Sardet: Sorry madam, but we’re here to ask other favors of you. This question might seem a little surprising, but do you know who this earring might belong to?
• Prostitute: Why…it’s mine! I-I lost it when… How did you get hold of it?
• De Sardet: Are you sure you want to broach that subject here?
• Prostitute: You’re right, come with me.

• Prostitute: Well, what do you want? Why are you giving me back my earring?
• De Sardet: You know where we found it, don’t you?
• Prostitute: Obviously! I realized as soon as I’d got back that I lost it.
• De Sardet: I imagine your pimp does not know that you take part in these parties. He doesn't dabble in this at all?
• Prostitute: No! Do not say anything to him, I beg you. He’s on my case enough as it is!
• De Sardet: Then I suggest you answer my questions.
• Prostitute: (sighs) What would you like to know?
• Ask about the party-goers
  • De Sardet: Could you tell us who you saw at the parties?
  • Prostitute: Rich people. Or better, they seemed very rich and important to me. But I don’t know them.
• Find out about the organizer
  • De Sardet: Do you know who organizes these parties?
  • Prostitute: Not really, no. A steward pays me when I go, but I don’t see anyone else…apart from the clients.
  • De Sardet: You can’t even give me a single name?
  • Prostitute: No. The only person who sometimes speaks to this steward is a woman who is always wearing a green coat. She never takes part in the…festivities, but the steward rushes over whenever she arrives.
• Suggest the presence of the Mother Cardinal
  • De Sardet: Do you think that…an important person from Thélème could’ve partaken in these soirées?
  • Prostitute: You’re thinking of Mother Cardinal, aren’t you? You lot really think we are a bunch of degenerates.
  • Petrus: You’re hardly a shining example of virtue, my child. Just answer our questions.
  • Prostitute: Sorry, Father, I don’t know the Mother Cardinal, but I strongly doubt she dabbles in that.
  • De Sardet: You don’t think you could recognize her and you don’t think you’ve crossed paths. What a testimony.
• (Once all dialogue options have been exhausted)
• Talk about the woman in the green coat
  • De Sardet: This woman in the green coat, can you tell me about her?
  • Prostitute: She always hides her face and never joins us, then she disappears into a little office and locks the door.
  • De Sardet: I see. She is quite important then. Thank you for your help.
• Charisma - Try to learn a bit more about her
  • De Sardet: Admit it, you must know more than you’re letting on. It’s virtually impossible not to recognize someone while being so close to these influential people, wouldn’t you agree?
    • (If successful)
      • Prostitute: Well, I was able to recognize someone, once. Even with a mask on, I’m good at recognizing my clients.
      • De Sardet: Please, continue. I’m all ears.
      • Prostitute: I don’t want to implicate anyone, but he…is of no real importance. And you’ve probably never even heard of him. It's the local moneylender.
      • Petrus: I know very well who you’re referring to, my dear.
      • Prostitute: But I didn’t mention anything to you, huh? This stays between us.
      • De Sardet: I don’t even remember the subject of this conversation anymore.
    • (If failed)
      • Prostitute: Please, I’m serious. Despite all the benefits and money, these parties aren’t enjoyable in the slightest.
      • De Sardet: I understand.
• Speak about Candy Cane
  • De Sardet: Do you know someone who goes by the name of “Candy Cane”?
  • Prostitute: Everyone does. He is a powerful person, so his name makes the rounds.
  • De Sardet: Have you ever spotted him at these…”pleasure parties”?
  • Prostitute: In all honesty, I wouldn’t even be able to recognize him. I’ve heard his name but that’s all.
• Prostitute: Be sure not to mention this to anyone. I’d lose my clients if they suspected me of speaking about them, you know.

Question the bookmaker in San Matheus

(Before questioning the prostitutes)

• Ask about Candy Cane
  • De Sardet: I imagine that the name “Candy Cane” rings a bell?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: Obviously. Even though I would prefer it wasn’t the case. He’s a sort of…organizer. He captures most of the beasts who fight in the arena.
  • De Sardet: How is that a problem?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: Apparently, he’s fixed a few fights. These kinds of rumors aren’t good for my business.
  • De Sardet: If that’s the case, then why don’t you stop him?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: He has friends…protectors. Without solid evidence, no one will lift a finger. And the only ones who wanted to speak of his cartel have disappeared.
  • De Sardet: Do you know where I can find him?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: He often hangs out around the port at night, but I strongly advise you to stay away from the guy.
  • De Sardet: I know how to look after myself. Thanks for the information.
• Ask about the Mother Cardinal.
  • De Sardet: Has the Mother Cardinal ever come here to place bets?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: The Mother Cardinal? And why not Saint Matheus himself while you’re at it?

(After questioning the prostitutes)

• Ask about the woman in the green cape.
  • De Sardet: I’m looking for someone. A woman wearing a big green coat.
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: Yeah, I know who you mean. She’s a good client. She comes in ‘specially for the big fights and she has prime…information.
  • De Sardet: Do you know where I can find her?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: No, I don't even know her name.
  • De Sardet: She wouldn’t happen to be coming back to collect some winnings, would she?
  • San-Matheus Fight Organizer: No, and I can't really tell you when she’ll show up next.

Question the moneylender "the Magpie" in San Matheus

• Magpie: Can I help you?
• De Sardet: Yes, actually. I have a small favor to ask.
• Magpie: You don’t look like you need money from me.

Note: You can only question the moneylender once.

(Before questioning the prostitutes)

• Note: You can only pick one dialogue option in addition to the “Pretend to be a messenger sent by the Mother Cardinal” option.
• Talk about the Mother Cardinal
  • De Sardet: I know that you know the Mother Cardinal. She borrowed money from you on several occasions. I want to know why.
  • Magpie: Where did you find that out? Who told you?
  • De Sardet: I want to know why she borrows money from you.
  • Magpie: Lending money is my job. It’s not illegal and I don't have to give you an answer!
• Mention Candy Cane’s name
  • De Sardet: I imagine that the name “Candy Cane” rings a bell?
  • Magpie: Obviously. All of San Matheus knows that name.
  • De Sardet: Can you tell me about him?
  • Magpie: I don’t know him personally. We’ve never been…introduced. But, rumor has it that he often hangs out in the basement at the Coin Tavern.
• (After selecting the first 2 dialogue options)
  • Magpie: You ask far too many questions. My guys will make you regret sticking your nose in other people’s business!
  • (Ends conversation)
• Pretend to be a messenger sent by the Mother Cardinal
  • De Sardet: I’ve been sent by the Mother Cardinal. She needs money. You know why.
  • Magpie: That’s unusual. She usually comes in person. Ah well. Business is business after all. What do you want?
  • De Sardet: She has sent me to find out if she still owes money and to make a little…withdrawal.
  • Magpie: No, no debts to settle. Everything is in order, as always. How much does she need? Same as last time?
  • De Sardet: Yes, that would be perfect.
  • Magpie: Excellent. Let her know that the usual conditions apply.
  • De Sardet: Do you think that will be alright for Candy Cane?
  • Magpie: What do you mean, for Candy Cane? Good Lord, are you crazy or something? I don’t wanna know what my clients get up to with their money!
  • De Sardet: I apologize, I’m not used to this. I thought that—
  • Magpie: You think too much. Go and see him, sort your business out, and come back to see me when you know how much she needs.
  • De Sardet: Very well, thank you very much.

(After questioning the prostitutes)

• De Sardet: I’ll get straight to the point. I have bad news for you. I know about the…the decadent parties at the palace. I know that you take part in them.
• Magpie: What? But…what are you talking about?
• De Sardet: Stop acting all innocent. I have all the information I need to incriminate you. Although your reputation isn’t spotless, there’s others who have a lot more at stake than you. What if I were to spread it around town that you boast about being there? You know what happens when tongues wag too much.
• Magpie: That's enough! Alright, alright, I get the message. What do you want?

• Note: You may choose either dialogue option; whichever conversation you don’t select will play immediately after the chosen one, without a dialogue menu.
• Talk about the Mother Cardinal
  • De Sardet: It would appear that you know the Mother Cardinal very well. I know that she borrowed money from you. I even know how much. What I want to know is why.
  • Magpie: I have no idea. Do you really think that my clients tell me everything about their lives?
  • De Sardet: Does she still owe you money?
  • Magpie: No, she always pays me back on time, with interest.
  • De Sardet: Do you think she’s plundering the city funds?
  • Magpie: Ha! If that were the case, the funds would’ve been depleted long ago. Nah, the money is coming from elsewhere.
• Mention Candy Cane’s name
  • De Sardet: Tell me about Candy Cane.
  • Magpie: We’re not close, if that’s what you wanna know. I just know his name, like everyone else. I mean, there are some rumors… They say he does his business in the basement of the Coin Tavern.
  • De Sardet: What kind of business?
  • Magpie: Oh, nothing to do with my line of business. He deals in arena fights, which are beyond me.
  • De Sardet: I’d advise you to keep all of this to yourself.
  • Magpie: I…I don’t want any trouble. I will be as silent as a stone.

Find and question Candy Cane

• Petrus: So, how do you see things, my child?
• De Sardet: I think that the usurer is lending money to the Cardinal, and very significant sums at that. With this money, she bets on the arena fights while hiding in a big green coat. And she also gives large amounts to a certain “Candy Cane,” known for fixing fights.
• Petrus: Not only does our dear Cornelia love betting games, but she also wouldn’t think twice about cheating to win.
• De Sardet: Maybe he’s just giving her advice. How can we prove anything?
• Petrus: We can always try asking him. Who knows? Perhaps he will give us an answer.

• (If approaching Candy Cane’s spot before nightfall)
  • Petrus: Candy Cane is not here, at least, not yet. Remember, my child, the bookmaker told us that he hangs around here at night.
  • De Sardet: That’s true, you’re right. Let’s come back later.

• De Sardet: Good evening. Are you the one they call “Candy Cane”?
• Candy Cane: Who are you?
• De Sardet: De Sardet, legate of the Merchant Congregation.
• Candy Cane: A legate, no less. I imagine in these cases the one accompanying you is the famous Petrus?
• Petrus: You seem to be very well-informed. Therefore, you might be able to answer my question. What do you know about a woman in a green coat?
• Candy Cane: Why would I tell you?
• De Sardet: We know that you have business with this woman, and that she is actually…the Mother Cardinal.
• Candy Cane: How did you…? You’d be better off forgetting that.
• Petrus: That’s not exactly the response I’d imagined, but nevertheless, seems rather eloquent.
• Candy Cane: I told you to forget about it, or you’ll soon run into trouble, legate or no legate!
• De Sardet: Come on, it was just an innocent little conversation. Goodbye Mr. Cane!
• Candy Cane: Bye and godspeed!

• Petrus: We have enough information.
• De Sardet: Really? Is the fact that she bets on fights that are potentially fixed enough for you.
• Petrus: It’s already a huge scandal. Let me just think about it for a little while. I will find a way of putting this information to good use.
• De Sardet: I have faith in you, Father.

Gallery

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See also

• GreedFall Quests