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Malena stretches and yawns upon reaching the appointed meeting place for her next mission. She was so exhausted from the gamut of missions the Society had dispatched to in the past few weeks that she couldn't even muster the energy to argue Korvus back into her tattoo. Instead she lifts her hand up to shoulder to feed him a few kernels of corn, dropping much of it on the ground to a litany of squawks and high-pitched Infernal curses.
"And I thought Chelish nobles were slave-drivers, eh, silly bird?" Malena say. "At least pay is good."
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Bubuduhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh! Bududuhhhhhhhhhhhhh!
A small halfling enters, his eyes are red rimmed and he looks grey faced and miserable, "Presenting Vesparo Dikan, ugh, oh gods! PresentingVesparoDikanadraactorloverdrinkerextraodinaire! Ugggggh!"
The halfling finishes and flees, followed shortly by the echoing sound of someone being very sick inside some sort of hollow object.
Vesparo swaggers in grinning, "Honestly boy cannot handle his breakfast liquor, the youth of today. Ah, you should have seen my performance! It was masterful, I had the crowd weeping a torrent, as I clutched my son in my hands watching him metamorphose into a monster before my eyes. It will not be long before The Lion's Den is Absalom's premier theatre you mark my words! How is everybody?"
He absent mindedly pulls a flask from his bandolier and takes a swig of something eye watering.
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Cheerfully as always, Marra arrives for the next pathfinder mission briefing looking a little bit more confident and hearty as an adventure obviously proving the saying that 'What doesn't kill you only makes your stronger' "Greetings friends! I'm sure the venture captain has something exciting and noble lined up for our team."
Sitting down in one of the man size chairs in the room makes the small halfling look a bit child like, contrasted by the high quality and well maintained weapons and armor she sports, "Vesparo, I think I'm starting to understand your enjoyment of preforming for an audience. I've found my own skill at story telling has improved as I've learn how to read the audience's mood and subtlety manipulate them until they are eating out of your hand. It's amazing!"
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"A little tired, comrade," Malena replies to Vesparo. "Could use some distraction - perhaps I will catch show at Lion's Den next time I travel to Absalom. Perhaps you can give me backstage tour, no?"
The sorceress smirks an evil grin and leans against the wall.
"No idea what they have for us this time," she says. "They call - we answer."
The adventurers find themselves in Katheer, in Qadira, with no venture-captain to greet them, save indirectly by a note. ()
The pathfinder are asked to bring a single gift. The options include a silver-chased scimitar (+1 scimitar), a gold ring bearing three sapphires (a ring of protection +1), or a steel shield bearing an image of Sarenrae painted in gold and studded with garnets (+1 light fortification light steel shield).
As the adventurers arrive at Zarmina manor, servants of the family see to their immediate needs and direct them to a study. Dressed in a white linen robe tied with a silk sash, Trade Prince Aaqir al’Hakam stands behind a desk in this small study. He spreads his arms wide in welcome, though his face speaks to his fatigue and grief. “You are a welcome sight, Pathfinders, and I trust you are here at the behest of the esteemed Esmayl ibn Qaradi. As you can tell, this is not a day to uncover fresh secrets. Rather, it is one of mourning for Zarmina Bahjari—a noble trade princess, my mentor, and the reason I ever became a trade prince. I am here to see to her estate, act as executor of her will, and carry on her commercial interests.
“It may seem strange to engage in business during so somber an occasion, but trade happens quickly in Qadira; my late aunt by marriage would actually be disappointed were I not to wrangle her vulture-like competitors into submission. Even so, it would be unseemly for a member of Zarmina’s family to conduct business at her wake.
“Though I have inherited much from my mentor, I do not intend to sit idly and live off her successes. It is still my intention to strengthen trade routes with throughout the Inner Sea while making the Pathfinder Society my chief ally. I want you to stand as an example of what we have to gain by continuing to work with the western nations.
“For that reason, I requested the Society’s aid because we have only a brief window of opportunity to speak with our rivals and convince them instead to become our allies. There are five in particular that I would benefit from your attention, and I understand several of them maintain their own rivalries with one another. Win over as many as you can, and I shall speak with them afterward to negotiate any details. Is that agreeable?”
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Marra tries to recall what would be the best gift by custom and what she knows about the Zarmina's family.
The small halfling pathfinder bard smiles as she gives an elegant bow, "Our condolences on the passing of Zarmina Bahjari, I'm sure her years where filled with profit and trade. As for the speaking to the rivals we are at your service, but what can you tell us about the five rivals and what their schedule for the day might be?"
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Looking over the offerings they might bring, Malena consults with Korvus as to which gift might be most valuable and therefore most respectful. She will recommend whichever one she believes to be most extravagant.
*****
Malena takes note of the traditional Qadiran mourning attire worn by the various people attending the wake before taking account of her own dark and demure gown. Wishing to better represent herself and not offend the locals, she quickly flips her sleeves of many garments in order to don something more fitting. Korvus, surprised by the sudden change, leaps from her shoulder and squawks loudly.
The raven only becomes more agitated as Malena suggests he return to his tattoo form. When tender words, harsh curses, promise of corn, and outright force do not work, the sorceress relents - she allows Korvus to remain perched atop the wall surrounding the manor and casts message on the bird so as to maintain communication (and some modicum of control) with him.
Despite the dour tone of the event, Malena can't help but to marvel at the beautiful manor and its exquisite architecture and decoration. She follows the servants in doe-eyed wonder as they lead her to the study. Once she and her comrades enter the room, however, her eyes are drawn to an altogether different source of beauty - the Trade Prince.
"You could not have picked more suitable group, captain," Malena says with a sly grin. "Some of us can be very persuasive."
The trade prince elaborates upon Marra's question: “I or one of my assistants shall point them out as they arrive. Their names are Pellius Melkior from Andoran, Doritannia Raffella from Taldor, Temel Passad from Druma, Jakti al’Awar from Qadira, and Metella Rauger from the Five Kings Mountains. I understand that Passad, al’Awar, and Rauger are particularly influential.”
The wake will start in the afternoon, and this is when you'll have the time to do business. As the shadows lengthen, there will be time for rituals, and formal speeches.
Upon Malena's eager remark, he says I a glad to hear that. I'm sure your role in this endeavour will be beneficial
A typical wake begins as a somber affair, but it’s common for the mood to lighten as the sun warms the room and the living share stories about the deceased and comfort the surviving family members. As dusk approaches, those in attendance wish the deceased peace through speeches and gifts that might accompany the deceased to the grave. Not only does this honor the dead, but it’s also an opportunity to comfort the living and remind those present to make the world a better place.
Aaqir then leads the adventurers to entrance hall, where a small crowd is already gathering for the wake. The two-story hall stands at the center of the manor. Its ground floor is comprised of an elegant mosaic of blue and white tiles laid out in intricate geometric patterns. Central stairs lead to the upper level and additional doors that lead to the family’s apartments. The double doors to the north open into the temple.
Guests are arriving from out-of-town, and they're already mingling in the entrance hall. Aaqir calmly takes his time to point out the five persons of interest.
He starts at a tall man with carefully groomed hair and an oiled beard. He wears pristine white clothing heavy with gold embroidery and gems. That is Temel Passad. He is a prophet of Kalistrade, an adherent to a strict set of personal codes that supposedly aid in one’s earning wealth. He is a clever man that the Society has dealt with before—typically under pleasant circumstances. His business ventures sometimes compete with those of the Five Kings Mountains, which has led to a rivalry with Metella Rauger.
Aaqir nods towards a red-headed dwarf who wears a tabard emblazoned with the Five Kings
Mountains heraldry. She often seems to touch her belt with her right hand, despite being unarmed. Who is standing over there. Metella Rauger represents several trading houses from the Five Kings Mountains, and she has worked with the Society and its allies before. She’s stubborn but fair. No doubt she will be on edge here thanks to Temel Passad’s having decided to attend and honor Zarmina’s memory.
See that large man, flanked by two bodyguards? Jakti Al'Awar. He has spent much time abroad and only recently returned to Qadira. He maintains a small business in magic items, and some speculate that his travels and business are primarily for scholarly purposes. What is known is mostly speculation; he is something of an unknown here.
Aaqir continues with a clean-shaven man, who is laughing out loudly. Pellius Melkior is from Andoran and has established himself as a reliable trader of durable goods in his country. Rumor has it that he has also looked into expanding his business into the River Kingdoms and Taldor.
Finally, a beautiful Taldan woman, finely dressed, but moving slightly ungracefully. That's Doritannia Raffella. She buys and sells alcohol and spirits. She comes from a common household yet elevated her status through her own acumen and hard work, though she recently fell on hard times. No doubt her experience would be a valuable asset to any business venture.
I have to attend to my family now, unless you still have questions.
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Vesparo grins, "Taldan, alcoholic, and a beautiful woman, I look forward to meeting Doritannia Raffella, it seems we have much in common! I suggest we take the shield, I have never been a fan of scimitars and this place is famous for them, we would be better off bringing something more unique. I suggest the shield we were just helping followers of Sarenrae maybe she will bless our efforts."
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Marra nods to Vesparo, "True the shield probably has the more valuable enchantment and it does have the image of Sarenrae painted on it, but then again the Scimitar is Sarenrae's chosen weapon. Also, I believe the gift is to be given along with a speech as a send off to the departed. So it will probably end up entombed with her. I know I would prefer a weapon at my side in the afterlife. What do you think Cressyk? I believe you are the tie breaker on this." The halfling shares what she knows about the custom
She also shares anything more she knows about each of the five
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Vesparo frowns, "She was an old Lady not a warrior, maybe the ring would be better if we are worried about appropriate? Does anyone know anything more about her? If not I still say the shield, if a scimitar was the more appropriate gift seems likely one of the others would bring one, if not then these people all being merchants should know the value of an item and recognize the shield is the more valuable. In my experience merchants tend to think about money more than anything else."
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Cressyk, looking at the items, grunts noncommittally. "I think all three items are worthy gifts, but as I have a particular fondness for weapons - though not so light as this - I would choose the scimitar. Whether it is an appropriate gift or not, I have no way of knowing." With that, he leaves the others to their deliberation.
Marra digs into her knowledge of the five key persons. She knows that Temel is a calm and focused may, though his weakness is that he like to amuse himself. Rumor has it he likes to bait the temper of Mettela. She knows little of the dwarf herself.
Pellius is a very ambitious spice and textiles trader, and he apparently scored a good contract with the Five Kings Mountain, to supply arms and armour to Andoran's eagle knights. Jakti's business is magical scrolls, though his fame comes from his time abroad in Osirion and Katapesh. He is affiliated with the cult of the Dawnflower, and has apparently hunted criminals in pursuit of the greater good.
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The halfling counters Vesparo, "Zarmina Bahjari was not always an old lady, just as you will not always be young Tiefling. Perhaps when you die of old age, you would like to be buried with a decorative walking stick?" she says in jest.
Speaking to the group, "Perhaps we can send the time until noon trying to gather more information about the five. How do we want to approach the negotiations as full team one mark at a time or smaller groups working different targets? It seems like Temel is the lest aligned with pathfinders goals."
Aaqir also introduces the adventurers to his family. This is my spouse, Emir Thalzar Gaatan, and my three daughters.
The then introduces a solemn looking man And this is a good friend of Zarmina's older days, priestess Umut Tepemkau. She is a cleric of Pharasma, and will oversee the burial rites.
This scenarios revolves around gaining influence with the five key NPCs. At certain stages, the PCs can roll influence checks to improve their standing with one of the persons.
Whenever the scenario allows the PCs to attempt an Influence check, the character may select one NPC in attendance to try to influence. Each PC can attempt a Bluff check (to pretend to be friendly), a Diplomacy check (to be genuine). Alternatively, each NPC has particular interests, which may reveal themselves through conversation, and which will allow an alternative skill to be used.
The PCs can focus their efforts by using aid another actions to assist each other on a target, or split up to cover more guests.
After introducing the party to his family, leaves off to attend to the preparations.
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After politely introducing herself to Aaqir's family and family, Malena ponders how the group ought to proceed.
"Good thought, Rhanloi," she says. "You attend to Jakti, perhaps with Cressyk to aid you? Vesparo, Doritannia seems your type, no? I am sure you will have much to talk about. Marra, will you aid me in speaking to Temel?"
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The halfling replies to Rhanloi and Malena, "I agree that Vesparo and Doritannia is a good match. I would like to take to Jakti, there is much in common. "
Marra give a gracious bow to Aaqir's family, "It is a pleasure to meet you all. You have my sincere condolences on Zarmina's passing, I hope she died doing what she loved? Unless I misunderstand, she is your Aunt? The way Aagir speaks of her, I wish, I'd meet her. What she like?" The halfling speaks and listens relying heavily on her professional oratory skills.
Marra opens with the family, and the immediate reaction tells her that while they appreciate the polite condolences offered by Marra, they do seem to think it somewhat inappropriate to be addressed thus.
She was our Aunt indeed, passed away at the age of 97. She has lived her life to the fullest, building up her trade empire and expanding it, particularly towards the east, up to the courts of the Padishah Emperor proper. She was truly a soul of great achievement.
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Rhanloi stands with Marra, and when she is done with the family he moves towards Jakti to engage him. As they approach, the elf will offer a brief nod to the bodyguards, but focus on the large Jakti. He decides to let Marra make the opening introductions, believing the shared link through the Dawnflowers will be a better initial connection. His knowledge of magic could then be used to discuss trade matters...
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Vesparo bows face grim, "You have my condolences, it seems she had a life to be celebrated, but its end is all the sadder for that."
Then as soon as it seems appropriate he slips away, heading close to Doritannia, and carefully removing a flask of Oldlaw Whiskey aiming to hide his swig from everyone save his fellow Taldan drunkard.
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Trying again, Marra accompany Rhanloi to introduce themselves to Jakti. Giving an appropriate bow, the halfling smiles "Forgive me if i'm breaking proper protocol, but I wished to introduced my companion and myself to you. We are from the pathfinder delegation, I am Marra a Bardic Dawnflower Dervish and dedicated to teachings of Sarenrae. My companion is Rhanloi an Evoker trained in the elven conclaves in the art of scholarly knowledge. We had heard you share some interest in common?"
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Malena assumes a posture of demure innocence and wanders toward Temel Passad, nearly bumping into the man.
"Apologies," she says, curtsying in the Chelish custom*. "The wake has overwhelmed me. So many people. Such touching ceremony. Trade Princess Bahjari was much loved, no?"
Not wishing to jump right into introductions, Malena opens with small talk and her doe-eyed country girl act, hoping Passad has an eye for more than just trade goods.
*I imagine a Chelish curtsy involves a deep bend forward and a lot of cleavage.
The towering inquisitor Jakti takes a few moment to look at Marra and Rhanloi, and patiently listens to Marra's introduction. He then proceeds to speak with a thick Qadiran accent May the dawnflower bless you, Marra the Dervish and Rhanloi the Evoker, and may the light shine on you. Speaking of shining he says with a weary sigh I find this room hot and stuffy, yet the servants seem to be less than willing to open additional windows to let in more air.
A man of wisdom and a storyteller of Sarenrae. The wonders of the world never cease to amaze me. Tell me, Rhanloi the Scholar, what is it that attracts you in raw evocation?
Marra can tell that his interests lie elsewhere, though he keeps up a good appearance. The link between his feigned interest and him being a magical items trader is quickly made.
Vesparo takes a good swig from that whiskey, and notices a curious look from Doritannia.
Cressyk lags behind in a bout of extreme sneezing, which draws an amused smile from Temel. A little bump-in later, and Temel, with that calm slightly bemused look of his, responds Apologies unnecessary. Yes, the whole affair is quite touching isn't it. So many important traders have arrived as well.
He takes a moment for a snuff from his snuffbox, then cannot control a sneeze. Fortunately, there is no trail of mucus to follow up.
And my apologies in return. he says, undisturbed. Following Malena's small talk he says Have you met the other trade princes? Metella Rauger, have you met her? We have a bit of a history, you see, he says with a chuckle - quite inappropriate for the occasion I have a habit of getting under her skin. I would love to know what text she has prepared for the funeral oration, only to be safe I have not prepared the same words. What a shame that would be. She is, of course, deeply suspicious of anyone who would want to see the text. I suspect she has the text either on her person or in her quarters. I would be very grateful if I could manage to get my hands on that text. Without her knowing, of course
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"Favors at funeral," Malena says, dropping the innocent tone. "I feel like I am back in Cheliax. On Pathfinder business I have met many trade princes and princesses, but not Metella."
The sorceress bites her lip, shooting Passad a look and a sly grin.
"It would not do for two beloved friends of Trade Princess to read same text," she says. "To honor her memory, Cressyk and I will seek dwarf merchant and retrieve text for you. Upon delivery, I am certain you will honor Trade Princess in discussing terms of trade with her protege - Trade Prince al'Hakam - will you not?"
If the terms are agreeable to Passad, Malena will excuse herself and Cressyk to begin in their task. Moving to a secluded part of the courtyard, she will call for Korvus to aid them.
"Cressyk," she says to her half-orc comrade. "I am not one for sneaking. I can speak to Metella about text and distract while you and Korvus investigate quarters - once we figure out where quarters are located."
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Rhanloi nods when Jakti complains of the heat. "I, too, am used to cooler conditions." He looks around the room, his eyes finally resting on a small fountain in one of the many alcoves, and beckons the man to follow him. Once near the fountain, Rhanloi will cast ray of frost at the water, causing it to flash freeze (or at least cool down considerably) and thus cool the surrounding air a bit.
"As to my affinity with evocation magic; it reminds me of the power and beauty of my home in the frozen, arctic lands far to the north. The ice and the storms carve new landscapes each year - terrifying in the midst of it, with an amazing energy to create wonderful new landscapes after their passing. I, too, seek to change what must be changed, and use the power of the magic to reshape what must be redone. And which school draws you the most, sir?" Rhanloi asks the man, watching for his reaction.
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Cressyk tries to determine the truth and motivation behind Passad's words.
Cressyk nods at Malena's suggestion. "If this is the only way to appease this man, then will do what I can. However, it might be best if I search her room first. We don't want her to know that she is being targeted unless we have no choice." He pauses a moment, a concerned look on his face. "It is likely that performing this task will alienate the dwarf Rauger, so it is imperative that we not get caught."
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A momentary look of confusion crosses Marra face as she sees beyond the veil. Following Rhanloi and Jakti, the halfling watches with interest as she watches for an opening, "I would guess that Jakti is interested in the art of transformation magic, especially the power to transform old rare magic items into new financial potential. You know that the pathfinder society is always turning up interesting items, such as intelligent magic swords. " she finishes with a sly smile.
Doritannia is unconvinced by Vesparo, but still opens her mouth and says I can be tempted. Tell me, what acquaintance are you of the deceased?
Cressyk sense there is more behind Temel's request than just ensuring no duplicate words are being said. Could it be that he wants to embarrass the dwarf, as he is won't to do?
Very evocative solution. Jakti says. I see you are practical as well as knowledgeable. I associate myself with the guiding light, and align myself with the divine rathe than the arcane. Does religion interest you, hmm?
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Vesparo hands over the flask with a grin, "I was her lover, age is only a number after all and she was very frisky. No, truth be told I did not know the Lady, though I am impressed with what I have heard. I am a Pathfinder here to pay respects and see if we can recruit allies for her family, who are friends of the Society. I was hoping I could enlist you to such a cause, but if you are not amenable then I shall still be drinking with a beautiful Taldan Lady so it will be hard for me to be sad, but very easy to make me happy. Will you allow me a brief pitch?"
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"I knew there was reason we keep you around, comrade," Malena says, giving the half-orc a flirtatious wink. "Take silly bird to watch door for you while sneaking. I will stay here to make better friends with Passad and keep eye on dwarf. Can you use scroll of disguise self? I have one if you want it."
The sorceress hands Cressyk the scroll, casts message on him and Korvus, bribes her raven with much corn in return for keeping watch, and wishes the inquisitor good luck. Malena then makes her way back to Passad in order to continue her diplomatic efforts with the powerful merchant.
"My comrade conducts little favor for you," she says. "Perhaps you keep Chelish girl company in strange land. Tell me - why such interest in Metella? Surely there is enough market for two traders in Golarion, no? Is healthy competition not good for business?"
While keeping Passad talking about the ins and outs of business and acting interested, Malena will keep an eye out for Metella. Should she see the dwarf or any of her companions heading toward Cressyk, she will give warning through her spell.
You may want to keep that sassy language to yourself here she says, mid-way between bemused and shocked to say you pay respects...
Very well she says, but refusing the drink what is it you want to say?
Malena keeps Temel occupied with talk, while keeping an eye out for Metella. The dwarf is occupied, mingling with other visitors.
It is her foolish pride, mostly. She does not see that her ways are ancient. She takes prowess in what she calls the quality of dwarven make. Outdated technology, and expensive. Oh, how angry she gets when I dare tell that in her face. Temel says, barely able to hide a chuckle. Red face, red hair. Temel adds, oily beard, oily smile and all.
Cressyk manages to make his way towards Metella's room, but finds the door locked.
Jikra looks expectantly at Marra. ...of the Dawnflower. I see. Why this path, I might ask?
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Vesparo grins, "What is disrespectful acknowledging that she was a woman and I am man? I do not consider such things disrespect, and I have always found intent important in determining whether to take offence or not. But I would ask you to consider aligning yourself with the Bahjari family and The Pathfinder Society, both would prove powerful allies, and they clearly respect you and your business acumen and work ethic or else they would not have sent me to persuade you. The wonderful thing about business is that it is not a zero sum game, by working together we can, I believe, each benefit and enrich ourselves. I would like us to have a relationship, perhaps you will visit my theatre some time in Absalom's Foreign Quarter, The Lion's Den? I should be delighted to give you the tour, and I am always interested in purchasing fine liquor."
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Malena returns Passad's smile with a grin of her own before excusing herself to a secluded corner of the manor.
"Stand by," she whispers into her hand. "I have trick up my sleeve."
The sorceress flips her sleeves of many garments until she is wearing a full-on funeral shroud. With her identity largely concealed, she has Korvus meet her outside the building and lead her to a hallway opposite Metella's quarters.
"Help me find servant or one of Metella's men," she whispers into her hand to Cressyk through the message spell. "Someone with key to room and I will charm them. Then you may sneak."
While Cressyk and Malena look for a fitting person to charm, the sorceress dispatches Korvus to seek out an open window, vent, or some other way into Metella's room.
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The halfling sighs, "Life takes people on curious paths, I had been following the footprints of my parents to become a merchant, until a series of loses left me in a dark spot. It was there I saw the light and followed the path to a Dawnflower monastery of Sarenrae, then to the service of the pathfinders. If I may ask, what draws you to being a trade prince?"
Doritannia suppresses a slight smile as Vesparo makes his pitch Why, I would be delighted to visit your threatre, once my trade brings me to Absalom. She does turn and move in a different direction you'll have to excuse me. Must be normal.
Cressyk finds the door locked, and Malena has little succes in finding an alternative way in, or locating a servant who has the key. Metella herself might have it.
Jakri answers the halfling: Trade is but a tool. It is the worship of the dawnflower that is what drives me. How better to organise, spread influence, than through a large network?
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"Looks like we do it hard way," Malena says. "See if Vesparo can help steal key. I will talk to dwarf."
From the flat tone of Malena's voice and the way she turns and walks toward the main section of the manor, Cressyk should be able to tell speaking directly with Metella is not a task the sorceress looks forward to. Before entering the room housing the wake, Malena flips her magical sleeves back into more stylish funeral garb.
"Excuse me," she says, approaching Metella. "Do you know when ceremony will start?"
Malena walks up to Metella, who, more or less subconsciously, reaches with her hand two where her sword would be, had she been armed, as if to check everything is in place. You mean it hasn't already started? the dwarf responds somewhat gruffly. It would be customary at these kinds of ceremonies to wait for the priest to call us in. The time for that, in these parts, is 'as the shadows lengthen', while for all intents and purposes will still take a while. Metella Rauger, and you are?
He starts at a tall man with carefully groomed hair and an oiled beard. He wears pristine white clothing heavy with gold embroidery and gems. That is Temel Passad. He is a prophet of Kalistrade, an adherent to a strict set of personal codes that supposedly aid in one’s earning wealth. He is a clever man that the Society has dealt with before—typically under pleasant circumstances. His business ventures sometimes compete with those of the Five Kings Mountains, which has led to a rivalry with Metella Rauger.Aaqir nods towards a red-headed dwarf who wears a tabard emblazoned with the Five Kings
Mountains heraldry. She often seems to touch her belt with her right hand, despite being unarmed. See who is standing over there. Metella Rauger represents several trading houses from the Five Kings Mountains, and she has worked with the Society and its allies before. She’s stubborn but fair. No doubt she will be on edge here thanks to Temel Passad’s having decided to attend and honor Zarmina’s memory.See that large man, flanked by two bodyguards? Jakti Al'Awar. He has spent much time abroad and only recently returned to Qadira. He maintains a small business in magic items, and some speculate that his travels and business are primarily for scholarly purposes. What is known is mostly speculation; he is something of an unknown here.
Aaqir continues with a clean-shaven man, who is laughing out loudly. Pellius Melkior is from Andoran and has established himself as a reliable trader of durable goods in his country. Rumor has it that he has also looked into expanding his business into the River Kingdoms and Taldor.
Finally, a beautiful Taldan woman, finely dressed, but moving slightly ungracefully. That's Doritannia Raffella. She buys and sells alcohol and spirits. She comes from a common household yet elevated her status through her own acumen and hard work, though she recently fell on hard times. No doubt her experience would be a valuable asset to any business venture.