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Glancing up at her blue skinned friend, Analia catches his brief wince and gets an idea. "Excuse me! I'll be right back!"
She jumps down from the table and rushes out the door of the private room and then rushes all the way out of the inn.
After just a quick moment she comes back inside, cradling something in the folds of her cloak.
She quickly makes her way back to the private room where her friends are and enters. Glancing up to the others, she smiles and waves, "Hilo again!" and she jumps up into her chair where she stands, then leans over to Craggark. "Try this..." and she promptly drops a bit of snow into his cup.
-Posted with Wayfinder
Haltani/Uliyara greets all of you in kind. She is particularly pleased to meet your newest member Analia. Please do sit next to me and tell me all about yourself! Uliyara, pats a comfortable looking cushion, next to her own seat. Captian Vlasmir follows the group in and stands next to Haltani, bending once to whisper in her ear, while Haltani/Uliyara greets her guest.
Gwendoline, clears her throat, Will that be all Lady Haltani? Haltani/Uliyara looks up somewhat surprised by, the Inn keepers presence. Yes, that will be all for now Gwendoline, please bring some cakes in half a turn for my guest...but, give me a moment to catch up and greet them. Gwendoline nods and smiles in approval, It will be as you wish.
As soon as Gwendoline closes the door, Haltani takes a ribbon out of her hair and the visage of the beautiful Uliyara appears. She seems bemused if Analia is surprised by her transformation Uliyara offers an apologetic explanation to Analia, Forgive my Palor tricks, a necessary ruse for these uncertain times. She turns her attention to Vlasmir, What problem was there captain? The captain looks around the room as if unsure to speak; Uliyara interrupts his thoughts, Oh really captain! Why must you be so suspicious? If I trust these people enough to reveal my identity, then surely I consider them my friends..now speak freely that's an order.
The captain looks somewhat abashed as he clears his throat, Ut, um..as you wish your highness Vlasmir walks over back to the door and locks the door checking the handle to make sure. As I was escorting the Pathfinders to the Lavender Rose, I didn't notice the Osirion merchant that Halvor has employed, mixed with our group and trailed us. Uliyara, shifts in her seat, suddenly uncomfortable. He deduced from our conversation that, this group was meeting Haltani, and wanted to meet her himself. He also is now under the impression that, there is a council of town's merchants meeting here in Dalun. Furthermore, he and Halvor were not invited to the meeting. Uliyara looks irritated. And why would he think that captain?
I may have offered it as a cover story at the gate to escort the Pathfinders in to the city without suspicion....I'm sorry my Lady...I wasn't informed he would be coming. The captain looks down as Uliyara's icy stare burns through him. Well any more disasters you want to tell me captain? The captain looks genuinely frightened and sputters, No my lady, that's all I mean er.. it shouldn't be too much a problem...uh er would you like me to take him into custody for questioning? Uliyara looks disgusted at the captain. *Pfft*, take him in to custody? Question him? You might as well confirm to him, I'm having a secrete meeting with Pathfinders! As it is he knows Haltani is meeting with them! Where is Nadir now captain?
The captain straitens up and answers a little less pitifully, I do not know, I sent him away to another Inn. However, the merchant usually stays at the Crystal Garden near your mother's Palace. I did invite him to the meeting to divert his suspicion. Uliyara, nods still very much displeased at the turn of events, Yes he'd want to be as accessible to mother as possible. Mother always did have a fondness for Majory's Elderberry Jam. Uliyara pauses considering,Also,I think you better send one of the watchers over there to track his movements captain. Vlsamir back straitens and he comes to attention as Uliyara issues the order, It will be done my Princess!
Uliyara, motions her hand for the captain to depart, You are dismissed Captain... Uliyara's eyes soften for a moment as the captain opens the door to leave. Thank you captain for escorting my friends to me...I apologize for my outburst. I suppose you must arrange a council merchant meeting in a couple of days? Will you please, attend yourself, to keep an eye on the Osirion? Vlsamir, smiles broadly before exiting, Of coarse your highness I will see to it. The captain departs and Uliyara blows an exasperated breathe out, Argh.. so frustrating when complications arise! Why can't anything go as planned? she ask to no one in particular.
Uliyara's mood changes a few moments after Vlsamir leaves, Now tell me what have you all been up to since we last met?! She says excitedly.
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Tovald's interest is piqued by this exchange. She doesn't trust Nadir, interesting. "I have been well, your grace, thank you. Mostly just cooped up in my room with my alchemical formulae, heh!" Glancing at the others before deciding to forge ahead, the dwarf lowers his voice. "We met Nadir but a few days past, has he given you good cause to distrust him?"
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"We've been doing our best not to get ourselves killed," Craggark starts. He adds with a laugh, "And that seems to be a full-time job. In the meantime, we've been tracking a lost scholar and ally of the Pathfinder Society, one Rognvald Skagni. He apparently was kidnapped from Trollheim and brought north."
He answers her raised eyebrows. "Way up north."
He idly fidgets with the saucer for his teacup. "Most of the rest of the time, we've been following Jamir along on his endless stream of honour duels that he gets himself into. It passes the time, I guess." Craggark raises his hands in mock defence as the halfling playfully takes a swing at his head. "Not in the face! It's my prettiest feature!"
"Oh yeah," the half-orc adds as an after-thought. "I've been toying with the notion of starting up a trading route for ice peppers."
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Jamir strains his ears to their points, but can't quite catch what the captain whispers to Haltani.
[....] He idly fidgets with the saucer for his teacup. "Most of the rest of the time, we've been following Jamir along on his endless stream of honour duels that he gets himself into. It passes the time, I guess." Craggark raises his hands in mock defence as the halfling playfully takes a swing at his head. "Not in the face! It's my prettiest feature!"
The swashbuckler stifles a laugh. "Duels, he says! My Lady, I may have taught some ruffians a lesson or two about manners while we were watching the river flow past Kaslgard, but I swear to you that none of them could conceivably be described as duels. I would barely even call them fights."
"It is disappointing, really. Some of us --" he looks pointedly at Craggark "-- try to keep up our training in between missions, although I know some others who prefer to sit at a desk reviewing contracts and drinking COFFEE!"
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With an "oh well" shrug of her shoulders, Analia grins at Craggark for trying the tea, and pipes up when both he and Jamir order ales, "Make that three!". Looking to the others and without the slightest hint of doubt in her voice, she says, "I'm sure one of you will happily finish it if I find the taste unpleasant."
As Haltani drops her disguise, Analia has a quick intake of breath, and stares at the beautiful woman before her. Her friends had tried to prepare her, but words fail to do justice where this woman is concerned.
"They said... they said... they said that you were... they tried to explain... but how could they... I mean you are but I had no idea what that meant until now..." her voice trails off and she listens to the words of the Lady intently, now and then glancing to her friends and realizing just how lucky she is.
Absent mindedly she murmurs, "This is going to be amazing!"
-Posted with Wayfinder
Uliyara speaks animatedly and with seemingly genuine joy, at your reunion. When Gwendoline's polite knock at the door interrupts the pleasantries, Uliyara flustered rushes to put her magic ribbon back in her hair. She graciously accepts the help of Analia, just before calling out, Come in Gwendoline, I'm starving! Can't wait to feast on a few of your delicious delicacies! Gwendoline, enters the room with another serving girl and start serving food and warming everyone's cup with more tea. She notices Torvald crinkle his nose at the tincture and says, Master Dwarf, perhaps you'd like something with a little more bite eh? I've some fermented cider that many of the local men enjoy. It's a bit sour for some foreigners taste but, I'd be happy to poor you a cup and let you sample it?
After, Gwendoline and the serving girl get everyone situated with their food and drink of choice, Uliyara begins to speak, It's been so pleasant catching up with old friends and making new. Uliyara reaches over to pat Analia's small hand, as she says the last. I've enjoyed learning about your adventures commercial and otherwise. She looks at each of you in turn and stops on Craggark. I do wish you luck on your ice pepper trading venture Craggark. You know I've traded some myself in my guise as Haltani. Be sure you're trading for only the freshest stock I'd caution. Although, there's a great demand for the dried variety that's only because it's difficult to obtain ice peppers outside of Irrisen, that are not dried. If you can manage to transport 2 bails to say, Magnimar or Absalom..well let's just say I might be interested in investing in your trade route myself. Uliyara says to Craggark with a beaming smile.
Uliyara addreses each person in kind responding to something personal they shared. She finishes with Torvald, Master Stonecask, I am glad to see our time apart has treated you well. In answer to your question regarding Nadir...I really don't know him that well but, I can tell you mother doesn't trust him. Uliyara pauses to let that last statement sink in. The man shows up only a few weeks after your departure and suddenly he's one of Halvor's most trusted advisers? True mother may be vexed that this Nadir has been much more shrewd in bargaining than Halvor could ever hope to be capable of....but, still it is a fairly interesting coincidence, that he arrived so soon after known Pathfinders visited Dalun. Uliyara expels another breathe forcefully.
Mother suspects spies everywhere. I can hardly blame her. Aunt Urgalaena, would like nothing more than to embarrass or disgrace my mother. Uliyara pauses for a moment considering, You've met him and talked with him...what was your impression of Nadir?
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Jawhar remains politely distant during the pre-dinner conversation.
Craggark's explanation expressed only the needed details, and Jawhar does not trust Uliyara enough to provide any additional details.
He spends most of his time enjoying the floral notes infused in the tea, trying to analyze the flavor.
When Gwendoline refills his cup, he makes sure to compliment her. "Madam, this tea is simply delightful. Is that a hint of elderberry I taste? It is quite pleasing."
You've met him and talked with him...what was your impression of Nadir?
"Well, we just recently met the man. It has hardly been enough time to form an honest opinion.
I agree that we were surprised to see a foreigner so high in Halvor's confidence. Halvor trusts him, though, and listens to his council."|
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Craggark seems pleased at Uliyara's comments on his proposed trade endeavour.
"Nadir seemed really quite excited about the prospect - we talked a lot. I get the feeling that he's a pretty business-minded fellow. I think Halvor and all the other Whitethroners are enjoying the coin flowing into their village, if the amount of ivory jewellery that we saw as we passed through is any sign."
The half-orc covers his mug of ale as the teapot comes by. "None for me, thanks."
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"Some of that cider would be delightful, thank you."
Torvald considers the question for a moment, and then shrugs. "My experiences with merchants tells me that they are generally clever and quick to spot an opportunity. Nadir may well be precisely what he seems to be--a merchant who seized a chance before a rival could. As a matter of speculation, Halvor might be aware that his negotiating skills are not up to the task, and so he turns to an outsider who has offered him a compelling deal."
The dwarf smiles ruefully. "I'm afraid this is all guesswork, your grace. I'm better suited to solving the mysteries of engineering, ballistics or chemistry. At times I flatter myself that I'd be a passable policy advisor--but I've little grasp for cloak-and-dagger intrigue. I find it unlikely that Nadir is a spy, if only because as an obvious outsider he would be subjected to intense suspicion and scrutiny from Ulfen and Jadwiga alike. Hardly an ideal position for an agent up to no good."
Glancing at Jawhar, the alchemist decides to keep the bit about Nadir being called a Pasha to himself. I may be misremembering the significance of the title, he considers.
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At any rate, I trust Nadir as much as any other travelling companion we have had so far. Best to keep that to myself, though.
Jawhar nods along with Torvald's statements. "Sound logic, Mr. Stonecask."
Turning to Haltani again, he asks, "Haltani, we have laid out our mission and plans to you.
We plan to simply travel up river by boat as long as possible. Will we be able to take the boat as far as the capital?
Once we get there, we believe we have the means needed to gain entry to the city. However, should we seek any permission to travel between here and there?"
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"My Lady, given the timing of his arrival in the scene, you are... not wrong to be curious about Nadir. There was an Osirian merchant of that name selling his wares in the Kalsgard market before we first sailed for Whiterook. Whatever else he may be, he does seem to be a legitimate trader. The men of Whiterook believe his arrangement with Halvor is in their best interests, and from your description, perhaps it is."
Best to leave out the rumors I have heard about the details of that arrangement. When two friends are haggling, I have no desire to give one side an advantage over the other. I will remember to tell the other Pathfinders the rest later.
He nods at Jawhar's sparse description of their plans, and waits for Haltani's response.
Uliyara taps her finger absently on her chin considering for a moment. Perhaps your correct my friends. Mother sees ghost in every corner, I'm afraid. Perhaps when I speak with her later this evening before our departure in the morning, I will suggest sometimes an Orision merchant is...just an Orision merchant. Uliyara sighs for a moment, But, it will be a tough sale I'm afraid.
"Haltani, we have laid out our mission and plans to you.
We plan to simply travel up river by boat as long as possible. Will we be able to take the boat as far as the capital?
Once we get there, we believe we have the means needed to gain entry to the city. However, should we seek any permission to travel between here and there?
Uliyara looks distracted for a moment then turns her attention to Jawhar, What's that master Dhakir? River boat? permission? Oh my I think you may have misunderstood something when Captain Benarry gave you your orders. Pathfinders are still illegal in Irrisen. Furthermore the Thundering river just gets more dangerous past Dalun and there's no open water to speak of past Saraby. No you cannot travel openly as Pathfinders with permission anywhere in Irrisen. Even my mother doesn't have that much power. She looks sternly at you all to make sure you all have the point.
No I'm afraid the situation dictates you must travel incognito as local indentured merchants.
Uliyara, hesitates then presses forward. A merchant caravan has been arranged to escort you to Whitethrone. They are mostly indentured but, free to travel in Whitethrone as long as they have business. You will make yourselves circumspect among them. Uliyara pauses to see that, everyone understands. The caravan, leaves in the morning. It will be a long trip...but don't worry...it won't be all that, boring...because I'm coming with you! Uliyara breaks out in a wide grin at the shock and astonishment she has caused.
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Wrinkling her nose in disgust, Analia stares down at the table, seeming visibly bothered as she says, "I very much disagree with the practice that a person can own another person and indenture to those from Baba Yaga's lands is very close to that. Most people there, at least the peasants, are indentured or slaves. They are also usually of Ulfen or mix breed stock."
She then sighs and looks up to her friends as she continues, "But if there is no other way in, I suppose it is possible to be armed and armored, as some indentured individuals are allowed more privileges than others. We would just pose as some of those privileged few."
She quiets and a frustrated look crosses her face.
I know it's been this way for centuries there but that doesn't make it right. Someone needs to do something about it!
-Posted with Wayfinder
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Jamir looks disturbed for a moment, and then lets out a dry chuckle.
"My Lady, you had me going for a moment there. 'Indentured.' Indeed! As though, after all of our discussion during our last mission, you would expect me -- us -- to act as slaves!"
He chuckles again.
"Lia, don't look so down! Our hostess is only having a bit of fun. Not in the best of taste, I admit." As he speaks, his voice takes on a startling edge. "Because of course the entire idea is ludicrous. And offensive."
"Or would be, if it were not simply a joke. Right, Craggark? Torvald? Jawhar?"
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A hopeful look quickly appears on Analia's face after hearing Jamir laugh and describe the recent comments as a joke.
Such strange humor they have in the southlands. It didn't seem funny at all.
She looks on the tense scene with dwindling hope as Jamir continues to speak.
She stands and reaches out to touch the halfling's hand but then thinks the better of it. "I don't think she was joking." she says softly, her heart sinking with every syllable.
-Posted with Wayfinder
Uliyara, clears her voice and says, I'm afraid it's not a joke Jamir. She looks at Jamir's pained face with pity. It really is the only way. None of you could pass for Jadwigga, and a foreigner traveling in Irrisen is as good as dead in most provinces...especially the capital. I don't posses the magics to conceal you all and even if I did their are many who can see through such magical deception. Uliyara pauses to catch her breathe. The indentured ones can blend. Most Jadwigga stare right through them. I am not among those who think of the indentured ones as less, I am stilyaga ; many of the indentured call me friend...though there is little I can do for them.
Uliyara, stands up and collects a few belongings she had placed on the end table ( A small note book, a comb, a peculiar writing quill and a small vial of red ink). She straitens her gown and looks at you all and sighs. This is the best mother and I could arrange for you and Captain Benarry, on such short notice. If it's not satisfactory, perhaps we could work out something else, in a few weeks or a month...... She moves towards the door. However, given that, a comrade of yours may be in danger, I do not think it wise that we tarry. You may be correct about Nadir. But, nevertheless, spies are everywhere. The sooner you depart, the less likely someone is to notice, you were ever here.. Uliyara places the ribbon back in her hair and it becomes, the cowl of a cold weather parka as her features change to those of Haltani. Regardless, I suppose I'll have my answer in the morning. The caravan departs at the 8th bell out of the north gate.... Haltani looks around the room before opening the door. True concern riming her eyes. I suppose you're learning what it means to be of Irrisen. Sometimes, there is no avoiding the evil...you must choose the lesser of the two....or perish. Haltani's eyes are solemn and moist as she opens the door and departs.
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Craggark winces, realising he missed that important word: "indentured".
"Jamir, remember where we are," the frostkin begins. "Uliyara speaks true - Pathfinders are illegal here but slavery is not. Ogres and giants and orcs own property and titles and lands, so I've heard. This is a foreign land. We can do good work here if we can do any work here at all. I'm with you, my friend, in your stance against slavery, but the five of us are not going to solve it ourselves. Perhaps, in working undercover with these so-called indentured merchants, we can learn what we need to help free them from their shackles."
The half-orc holds his breath, awaiting the famed temper of the Cassomir Montajays.
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"This is a rescue mission, Jamir, in a land that--barring our gracious hostess here," he nods to Uliyara as she resumes her disguise, "is quite hostile." He gives Jamir an understanding pat on the shoulder. "I don't care for the necessity any more than you do, friend, but we cannot help Skagni or anyone else if we cannot move through the country."
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Perhaps, in working undercover with these so-called indentured merchants, we can learn what we need to help free them from their shackles."
"Excellent point, Craggark. To tend to the people's needs, we must first learn their needs and their ways. The best way to do that would be to travel with them and blend in as well as possible."
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Jamir grimaces as Haltani stands up to leave. He can barely look at her.
”Fine. On the morrow, then. Eight bells, at the North Gate.”
As soon as the disguised Irriseni noble leaves the tavern, Jamir leaps off of his chair and starts pacing around the small room, muttering a stream of obscene oaths the like of which only Craggark has heard before, and never from the little swashbuckler.
After more than a minute of this, he finally winds down and looks at the rest of the party.
”I had forgotten precisely how execrable this nation is. Even the best of the Jadwiga are utterly lacking in empathy and heedless of the lives and spirits of others.”
He begins pacing again.
”Oh, fine, I admit that Haltani has proven to be a friend in the past. But let me ask you all something: do you trust her with your life? With your freedom? Because if we go through with her clever little charade, we will be traveling through this winter wonderland from hell with papers that prove to anyone who cares to check that we are property. If Haltani decides along the way that having us as her property suits her interests, why, the paperwork is already complete!”
He waves away their objections. ”No, I do not believe that she would do such a thing. But she could. Of greater concern is the possibility that some ill befalls her, or we become separated. Who will ensure our freedom then? Her mother?”
He shakes his head. ”My friends, I will play this game. I will pretend to be a good little … slip.” He spits on the floor to get the taste of the word out of his mouth. ”But I will take every chance to undermine them that I can find. And mark my words, if we are betrayed, I will not live as a slave. Not for long, at any rate.”
He starts muttering again, stopping only to toss back the rest of his ale. ”This bastard Skagni had better be worth it.”
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”If Haltani decides along the way that having us as her property suits her interests, why, the paperwork is already complete!”
"Papers? I heard no mention of papers. This is all pretend, just like we pretended to be a trading caravan on the way to Dalun the first time. It is a reasonable ploy, and certainly better than anything I could come up with.
No, if I had any knowledge of papers with our names on them, I would grab them and tear them up instantly.
Trust does not really enter the conversation. I trust her enough to enter this city, and to travel in her company, but no further. However, I trust Haltani infinitely more than anyone else in this Gods forsaken country."
”This bastard Skagni had better be worth it.”
"Quietly, Jamir. The full details of the plan should be kept as closely as possible. Haltani may know the identity of our friend, and she may not. She won't know any more details from me, however. No more than what is absolutely necessary."
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Torvald nods in agreement with the cleric. "Indeed, with Haltani's assistance our cover will be far more effective than anything we could do one our own. Certainly the balance of power is not in our favor, but frankly that seems to be the lot of Pathfinders--intruding on the domains of others, hoping the local authorities are understanding of our latest endeavor, hm?" tipping back his cup he finishes the last of the cider.
He leans across the table and waits for Jamir to look him in the eye. "Know this though--if you find a way to strike a blow without jeopardizing the mission you may count on my wholehearted assistance."
In the morning you are greeted by Haltani and Captain Vlasmir. Haltani rushes up to you all and holds her hands out to embrace. I'm so pleased that, you have decided to join me my friends! Haltani, is obviously in her full Varki trader guise. She looks at Jamir studying his face.
Haltani nods her head, Master Motajay, so glad you could join us despite your miss-givings. You will be a valuable addition to our troupe. Haltani, addresses each member of your party in kind. Clearly, glad you all decided to come. You are introduced briefly to the caravan master Ake Radburn. He is a surprisingly young man, only in his mid 20's. Haltani, told me we'd have some extra hands. I've worked for the mistress before and even been to Whitethrone once. The man looks to be proud of his accomplishments.After a moment of chit chat . He looks around and notices one of the men tying down a pack saddle to a sled wrong. He shakes a couple of your hands; Well good to meet you, look forward to um er ..travel ...hey ...hey Ernst! that's not the way you do that! Stop and let me show you.. Ake runs over to his man and starts reaching for some straps.
It isn't long before the entire caravan is ready to travel. It's a small group. Half a dozen men besides yourselves, Haltani, and Ake. There are 4 large sleds drawn by a large horse each with a thick mane and several layers of saddle blankets covering it's flanks. The Sleds are filled to the brim with trading goods and supplies for the journey. Each sled has it's own folded up yurt.
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Jawhar will start off carrying the chest.
This fortunately gives him an easy reason to not be seen rejecting an embrace from Haltani.
Not sure what level of familiarity should be displayed between a slave and an Irriseni merchant, Jawhar adopts an air of deference. He is careful to avoid an obsequious tone, however, favoring the sound of a man with a job to do and impatient to do that job."
"Good Morning to you, Mistress. Fair weather and fast travels for us all, I hope."
After greeting Ake, he follows after him to ask about which sled to tie the trade goods to.
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Craggark looks askance at Haltani as she rushes towards the group, overly-familiar.
"MISTRESS Haltani, it is good to be travelling under your gracious protection once more." Craggark also avoids the hug by extending his arm strongly forward for a handshake.
What in the nine hells does the woman think she is doing? Showing affection and familiarity to us publicly in front of the rest of the group that we are supposed to be travelling with as indentured servants? Calling Jamir "MASTER"???
He addresses Ake. "Pleased to meet you, Ake. I am Craggark. Please direct me to where I may be of most use."
He does not look at Haltani again during the morning, keeping his eyes deferential.
She will have to learn how to play the game that she suggested we all play, it would seem. Or maybe she needs reminding of the game.
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Jamir greets Haltani with a mild smile (which might be genuine), and a little bow. "My lady, you appear to have a capable crew at the ready."
When Haltani introduces him to Ake, Jamir offers the man his hand. "It is a pleasure to meet you, Ake. I am Jamir. If there is anything I can do to assist you, please do not hesitate to ask."
Jamir's friends notice something off about his behavior this morning, but it takes a few minutes for them to realize that he is not swaggering when he walks. His normal rhythm of speech - normally Jamir sounds like he is bragging even when he comments on the weather - is entirely absent. Introducing himself to Ake, he shows no more emotion or passion when speaking his own name than one might when naming a pet guppy.
It is almost as though Jamir does not care whether anyone notices him at all.
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ΞΞΞ>After all preparations are complete and the group finally loads up to leave<ΞΞΞ
It is almost as though Jamir does not care whether anyone notices him at all.
Looking up to Craggark, and then back to Jamir, Analia blinks once and then walks over to the downhearted halfling. As he trods over to one of the sleds, his spirit low, she walks beside him.
She briefly glances back to Craggark as Jamir climbs onto a sled for travel. Her eyes soften and a weak smile appears on her lips. She silently mouths the words "He needs us. I'll ride here for now." and then she turns back to the nearby sled, climbing up next to Jamir.
If the halfling notices her, he doesn't show it, his head hung low, however slightly, as he stairs at the trail ahead.
Soon, the sled gets underway with a jerk and she reaches out reflexively, grabbing Jamir's hand. She looks to him, and she can feel, more than see, his pain.
Unsure of any way to comfort him, she wraps her arm around his shoulders, pulling him close. He resists at first but the wetness in her eyes defeats him. As he relents, she wordlessly guides his head to her chest. The heat of her comes through shockingly, even with the layers of winter clothing between them.
As the moments of the trip move by a sudden thought comes to her mind. "Analia. Analia Frostburn." she whispers. "By my heart, Sir Montajay, none outside of my family know this. Please keep it safe. In return I will keep you safe as well."
Then suddenly she smiles, her eyes taking on a refreshing gleam. She raises his head to look at him directly, and whispers "Never forget who you are. You are Jamir Montajay, of the Cassomir Montajays, the deadliest swordsman in all of southern Avistan."
After a small pause as she searches his eyes with her own, she adds,"And you are my friend."
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Jamir looks from side to side to make sure that they are unobserved, then turns to Lia, winks, and gives her a quick grin before letting his face relax into the subdued expression he had worn all morning.
"Not to worry, friend Lia, your secret is safe with me. And have no fear for me, either - it takes more than one insult to break a Montajay! I am only trying to avoid drawing unwanted attention to our little caravan. The indentured servants of the Jadwiga are rarely exuberant!"
Before the caravan sets off Captain Vlasmir pulls Jamir aside. Then does something strange...he bows before Jamir and says in a whisper, She is my charge.. Vlasmir, offers a quick glance at Haltani/Uliyara. She has been since she was a child. Though I've family of my own... his face is pained full of emotion; Well... my daughters and her played together, in the palace when they were young. the captain scans Jamir's face for any trace of sympathy. You foreigners, may not appreciate the intrigues of our courts or the customs of our lands...But, I've seen our men Flayed by the Linnorm Ulfen's and burned alive by the Kellids from the Mammoth Lands. He states this as simple truth.
But, one nation's innocence or guilt does not concern me now. His expression is fierce, that of a concerned father. What does concern me is the young Baroness heiress. He pauses to make sure Jamir is listening. Often she as slipped away from me and done dangerous things. But, I assure you, none so dangerous as she does now. He spits in disgust and attempts to grab Jamirs shoulders ..
Vlasmir's grip is tight as he utters the following, You may not believe it but, that girl is in as much danger as you, traveling to Whitethrone, incognito. His eyes are frantic desperate, Not even her mother can spare her from Elvanna's wrath if she incurs it. Please, Swordsman Montajay, promise you'll do what you can to bring her back alive!? Vlasmir releases his grip and folds his hands together as if praying in a pleading motion.
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Craggark sees the Captain acting strangely to Jamir. When he moves to grab his shoulder, the half-orc audibly growls and moves threateningly to the halfling's side.
"HEY!" the frostkin bellows, "my colleague doesn't need his shoulder adjusted. Why don't you just relax?"
Servitude, be damned! I will clock this fool into Lastwall!
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As the journey to Whitethrone starts, Jawhar stays mostly to himself. He is uncomfortable pretending to be someone else, and thus tries to observe the interactions of the others.
After a couple of days, he starts to relax. The need to tend to various ailments and injuries experienced by the other members of the caravan is not something he can ignore. Thus, he starts to make rounds amongst the people, talking about himself when he needs to, but mostly listening, tending to their emotional needs as well as their physical needs.
As he loosens up, he begins to realize that there do not appear to be many guards on this caravan. Where are the lashes and chains? The people seem comfortable and competent, and show no inclination to run off even though they are not restrained.
This is a completely different experience from the slavers that Jamir has told stories about. Certainly these people have no choice in their profession, but what poor fisherman or desert nomad actually has more choice about how their life will unfold? As far as that goes, did Jawhar himself have more choice in his vocation? The gods choose who they will, and send them where they will. Were his actions his own choice or those of Sarenrae?
In the end, he realizes that it doesn't matter. He wouldn't have made a different choice regardless, and is extremely happy to serve the needs of the community.
Certainly, Jawhar recognizes that free will is the greatest gift that the gods provided to the sentient races. However, as long as the people are not being mistreated, he sees no measurable difference between this existence and the various small communities he has served in his years of service.
He determines that if any member of the caravan asks for his help in escaping Irrisen that he will do what he can to aid, but will also allow those people the choice to stay in a known existence that at least provides some measure of security and sustenance in a land as inhospitable and evil as Irrisen.
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Jamir puts out a hand to forestall Craggark's temper.
"Softly, my friend. Captain Vlasmir means no harm, he is merely ... emphasizing his concern for our friend Haltani's well-being. All is well."
Jamir addresses Vlasmir, pitching his voice low and even, trying to calm the man while maintaining his own imperturbable attitude to avoid drawing attention to their discussion. "I understand your concern, Captain, and I assure you I do not take your request lightly. My comrades and I have risked our lives to protect Haltani before - both before and after we learned she also bears another name and face. We will do so again should the need arise, without hesitation."
Vlasmir looks relieved at Jamir's words before he can express his gratitude, Haltani walks over, everything alright here? she says with a look of concern on her face. Vlasmir cuts off Jamir's response by injecting, It's nothing my lady, I was just warning Jamir to keep his hands covered at all times even if it felt unnatural to wield his blade thus. Haltani, for her part seems un-convinced but, nods her head in acceptance anyway. Alright, then captain. If your through with this brave warrior I've need of him. I hope to see you on my return to Dalun. Vlasmir, sputters for a moment, before offering, Of coarse mi..Lad....umm..mistress Haltani...I'll not keep you any longer. Good luck on your journey and fair trading!
As Jamir and Haltani walk towards the now loaded sleds, Jamir can hear Haltani whisper, He's too over protective when not needed and absent when wanted.
Your journey is long, cold, and often times, majestic in nature. Though it is the height of summer in the Linnorm Kingdoms to the west, Irrisen remains in perpetual winter. The frozen landscape is surreal at times. Natural ice columns often loom in the middle of open tundra and what roads and trails their are to speak of, are marked with giant timbers sticking from the ground often dozens of feet of snow beneath their posted signs. There are signs of life along the way. Unidentified, herd animals are spotted in the distance and even the occasional traveler passes by. Almost always, these people, travel in sled or sleds such as yourselves. The travelers, often stop and converse with your caravan master, inquiring about hazards and distance to the next town. Almost all the travelers, pay your group little attention except, the occasional rival merchant, wanting to know what wares you're trading.
Your first stop is in the town of Saraby. It is here, where you get your first real taste of the caste system of Irrisen. No longer are pleasant Inns and elderberry tarts part of your routine. Ake speaks to the gate guards and leads the group into town away from the commerce district and toward the slaughter houses and stables. After some negotiation with another Ulfen serf the group is allowed to drag their sleds into a large barn, where many other Ulfen and pack animals are already present. There's a few glaces at the shorter members of your group but, otherwise the other merchants and guest seem to keep to themselves.
Your next stop is across a vast track of land to the township of Dobrova. They seem used to travelers and merchants in this town and the accommodations are similar to Saraby except a makeshift kitchen is set up in the center of the barn near the hearth selling gruel and spitted caribou meat for a few coppers. Ake seems pleased with the groups progress and in the morning is animated as ferrys transport the sleds across the somewhat frozen
Marbleflow river.
The land flows by and scenes seem to repeat themselves. It isn't long before your group is traveling close to the infamous Glacier Lake. Whitethrone still tauntingly on the other side. You travel through the wilderness stopping at the towns of Lendenica, Reikametso, and Ytterjorna.
After several weeks of traveling you can sense your journey draws to a close. Ake Radburn makes an unusual appearance in your Yurts one night about the third week of travel. Well my friends we draw near. We travel to one of the most dangerous and well guarded places in Golarion. Sheer walls of 40ft in height surround Whitethrone except at the harbor. Unless one wants to brave those ice filled waters we must go through the walls and that means getting past the gates. Ake lowers his voice to that of a whisper now and looks directly at Haltani, who's been sharing Yurts with you. Now I'm not the sharpest stick in the pile, but it don't take a genius to know, you're more than foreign merchants Ake raises his eyebrow at Craggark.
Mistress Haltani, needn't tell me anything...I guess for myself you all be Pathfinders. Ake pauses for a moment and waits for a response, while gauging the party's reactions.
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Jawhar will look straight into Ake's eyes with a direct, but unchallenging look.
"Ake, I have enjoyed my time in your company and have enjoyed the chance to tend to the needs of your people.
Intent is like the wind, it changes from moment to moment. Here in Irrisen, the wind can be deadly, and in the cold the winds carry words farther than they might in other places.
You are free to make assumptions about our intent. Over the past few weeks, we have certainly shown you the nature of our character. However, you should keep those assumptions to yourself before your words bring danger to us and those in our company."
Jawhar glances quickly but pointedly at Haltani.
"You might want to think twice about who you endanger with words carelessly cast into the wind."
Jawhar settles back once Ake shows signs of contrition.
"Now, since you seem to want to help, there are some questions you could answer.
We certainly don't want to bring any additional scrutiny to your group, so we will be splitting paths with you now. We have our own means to secure entry to the city.
Our plans will lead us to locate an establishment near the harbor. You have been to this city before, while we have not.
We would appreciate it if you could guide us to the correct gate to enter, and possibly point out an inn that we could stay at relatively near the harbor district."