Kzrira nods at Amir's first comment and then shakes her head at the latter.
I definitely need to get this bow enchanted. It will still not be the same as Tempest, although that bow had a strange personality to say the least. Also, anything that the temple can do to help with this exhaustion would be appreciated.
As far as the Aspis scum, and all the others who are trying to buy whatever you all dragged out of that filthy cave, I do not see why we need to inform them, or anyone else of what we are doing. Perhaps it would be better to tell them that it left on a ship last night bound for Nex. Our goal is to conceal it from being able to be located by magic, why not use some deception to make it more difficult to find through mundane means as well.
Varkata nods, "I believe they said they'd be able to cast a restoration today... With the needed delay between castings, I think it's best to do it soon... especially in case something untoward happens."
Karethas works diligently the first day to learn See Invisibility and Obscure Object, as well as giving Andrathi's notes a first read through.
In fact, the Dean spends the day researching Andrathi's notes in preparation for having a go at the scroll. Karethas is fully engaged in copying the new spells into his spell book. The others return to the Immaculate Vault of Abadar to see about getting Kzrira restored and her bow enhanced.
All - Am I paying for the 1280? Or is this coming out of the party healing funds? At least I think we have one.
Amir nods at Kzrira and Varkata both as he finishes his food and leans back casually as he wipes of his mouth chuckling at the archer, There is a reason I rely on you to shoot arrows quickly and openly rather than a single one from the shadows, your desire to just be done with this is part of our problem. Amir chuckles at his jest.
The rogue goes on gesturing widely to the bar, We are surely being watched and in so much that we now have a reputation and I having some vague limited authority in Kelemerane there is the issue of politics. I would rather be honest with Aspis and the others so they don't try to stab me in some alley. I may not love these groups but for now this is about money and the more we dance with them in good faith the better of we will be in the future should another song come. Let us go to the Vault, the might be able to scribe and send a message to these various parties for me while we look into Kzrira's issues. The rogue rises to leave when the others are ready.
===========================
At the vault Amir sees that the Vault is paid for Kzrira's services and asks if they have scribes and runners who could deliver notices to Aspis and the other parties that we may still be a couple of days away from making a decision about the scroll.
At the Immaculate Repository the party find that the Vault Master is busy and you are assisted by another ranking priest, a Vudrani woman with short hair and a tasteful gold nose ring named Kazim. She says that the temple would be happy to serve as a go-between for any transaction and will send messengers per request.
Kazim also informs you that Vault Master has prayed for the restoration spell, but is quite busy today and can heal Kzrira in the evening after his work day is finished. She mentions that he was interested in further discussing the reopening of the trade route as well.
Hearing that she will have to wait yet longer to be even partially healed, Kzrira lets out a sigh.
Lets go see if we can find out anything new about this trade route. I certainly want to avoid getting in a fight until I get my bow back and some of Abadar's healing.
She then looks to Amir hoping the rogue will have some idea of where to go to get more information on this.
Amir rubs his chin for a moment thinking on the matter...
Varkata offers, "My usual approach is to spend extra coins in taverns to learn things... Though perhaps finding a sage would be the best approach."
Whilst the lovely Kazim discusses the finer points of magically enhancing Kzrira's bow, Amir ponders. There was that shadowy information broker, Mechem Djall from the Nightstalls, but he'd likely charge a dear price. An old merchant would likely prove much cheaper if a knowledgeable one could be found.
The Sand Dragon Inn is now much too high profile to ask around. Perhaps the Daystalls just outside the main gates of the city would be productive. Newcomers are likely to be widely traveled and probably haven't yet heard of the Nexian scroll Amir carries anyway.
Let's head out past the gate to the Daystalls, I'd avoid our usual haunts for now. I'll ask around and see what we can find. If I come up short we can switch the Drunken God method... As the rogue gestures to leave he offers a smirk at the half-orc.
Back outside the walls, the air is hot and dry despite the muddy flow of the Scorpius that guides the trail into the city. The party crosses a simple plank bridge over a small channel that fills the watering troughs of the Camel Markets to look over the tents and stalls that greet travelers from the western wastes of the nation.
Varkata wrinkles her nose at Datorro's Brewery uncertain of the combination of harsh smells emitted from the combination tavern and alchemist shop. A row of brighter tents are marked with large banners proclaiming "Cheeho the Talking Dog" and "Fortunes Revealed by the Smoke Lady". A large adobe structure is marked with a mural of a camel crossed by a scimitar for the Caravan Guard Union Hall.
Amir moves off to join a group of older merchants surveying the activity.
Kzrira looks to the others.
I would not mind checking out the Caravan Guard Union Hall. I used to work as a guard and spent quite some time riding with the patrols after we freed Kelmarane. Unfortunately as you all know, I am not usually the best in social situations.
She looks at Amir and then Varkata.
Would either if you like to join me? I figure that Amir has his own contacts, so perhaps us women should check out the caravan guards.
Varkata thinks, I hope that's an alchemical reagent... because I don't think I want to taste any brew that smells like that...
She nods at Kzrira, "An excellent suggestion... if we're going where they're off-duty, we'd best have coin or ale to loosen tongues."
Amir learns a bit more about the lost oasis on the old road to Ipeq. It seems the misfortune that befell it was quite intentional. The two leading theories are that it was either the work of a Shir div or a vengeful Gebbite necromancer, but all agree that all the Dawnflower's priests were murdered and the Well of Paradise defiled. They assure their fellow merchant that it is best forgotten. A young and foolish faris of Sarenrae attempted to restore it a generation ago and never returned.
Varkata and Kzrira hear much the same, but also learn from one now grizzled caravaneer that he once accompanied a small band of smugglers attempting to sneak past the cursed oasis and they were chased off by a great winged lion that shouted oaths at them as they ran for their lives.
Amir is sure to spend ample time in his exchanges talking up the rebuilding of Kelemerane and notes that the markets are being cleaned up, the city rebuilt and that there may be opportunity for cheap real estate in addition to the other social niceties that come with older merchants exchanging info. Once he is convinced he has extracted what he can he will say his goodbyes and work his way back to Varkata and Kzrira.
The other merchants seem interested in Amir's news of opportunities on the western frontier. One tells of a desert dwarf druid who wanders the deserts of Osirion and Katapesh. He is said to have followers that commune with the palms around the Golden Oasis in the city.
The sun is sinking over the desert as the adventurers regroup. Grabbing some food from a food cart, Amir believes it is time to return to the Immaculate Repository for you meeting with the Mater of the Vault.
Returning to the villa, you are greeted by the groundskeeper who leads you upstairs where Karethas reclines on a couch with a pile of scrolls at hand. The dean is in the third floor library, but comes down to speak with you briefly before his evening meal. He feels that he has refreshed his memory of Andrathi's account and would like to study the scroll itself tomorrow.
Karethas joins the party though he looks distracted and mumbles arcane phrases to himself as the group passes the Palace of the Pactmasters and enters the Dawn Gate District. Kazim greets you once again and leads you to the private chapel where Kzrira was previously raised from the dead.
The priestess makes small talk while you wait for the Vault Master. She mentions that Badra had been by the temple to complain that you were taking too long to sell the relic. The mercenary cum merchant princess claimed that you were delaying to get more bidders to inflate the price. Kazim warns you to be careful and lights the tall golden candles as the daylight fades from the yellow tinted windows.
The high priest, Jalal Abdul-Abadar, arrives not long after the candles have been lit. With Kzrira kneeling before the altar, the priest begins the ceremony which includes several rounds of prayers and culminates in the offering of the diamonds Amir purchased. Afterwards, Kzrira rise and all can see that color has been restored to her face though she has not regained the full health she possessed before her ordeal.
After a proper amount of time for congratulations, the Vault Master turns the conversation to the lost trade route. Kazim confirms that the enhancement to Kzrira's bow will be completed the following day and Master Abdul-Abadar that action very soon thereafter is essential if Kelmarane is to succeed.
Amir nods at the insistence of the importance of the task and indicates that the Master should continue so the group can properly understand the issue.
The Master nods, "As I am sure you know, trade is the lifeblood of settlement. Zayifid has reported on the progress made in Kelmarane with much praise for your work, Amir. However, the current route is much too extended from its path through Solku. In addition, most merchants have little reason to continue on to Kelmerane once they have reached that city so Kelmarane is starved of potential trade."
"The old northern route runs directly to Kelmarane and would allow the town to compete independently for Mwangi trade over the Shattered Range. More importantly, the growing presence of civilization in the north will allow us to begin to reclaim the Brazen Peaks from the gnoll hordes and revitalize land trade with Ipeq and the rest of Osirion."
"All that stands in the way is this small stretch of cursed land at the old oasis. The followers of the Dawnflower seem unable to restore it and should we move directly, it might stir up conflict between our faiths so it is best that a more neutral party investigate. That is where you come in."
It seems to me that this would be a fine task to set ourselves on. Considering its importance I understand the haste but I am curious if you think we can wait a day or two before setting out. We have some unresolved business in town that I fear could lead to an escalation with unsvaory parties if it is not handled delicately. Amir offers a half shrug with his hands up as though to say "I wish it wasn't this way".
Kzrira nods in agreement with the old rogue's words, her hand unconsciously reaching up for her bow, which is not there. As a result, she then holds her hands in front of her nervously walking her fingers up and down each other.
I agree. At the least I must wait for my bow to be enchanted. Also, we should do more research about the layout of the land around this oasis. It may be cursed by magic, or simply inhabited by something that wishes others to believe it is haunted.
As she says this, Kzrira's mind wanders to the vile div that has harassed them for so many months.
If I had to guess, we will probably find at least one nemesis at the oasis. A div that has sought to destroy us at every chance. We have defeated her several times. Unfortunately, she has managed to escape each time. The next time, I intend to make sure is the last time.
Master Abdul-Abadar assents to Amir's request. "Kazim has kept me up to date with developments. Kzrira's bow should be ready tomorrow so perhaps a departure on the following day. I would recommend cold iron if you have no holy arrows for a div."
"As for your business, well as I'm sure Kazim has mentioned, some of the interested parties have expressed their impatience, but they will just have to wait until you return. If you need some place to store the relic until then, there is no place more secure in all of Garund than the vaults of this sacred repository."
Kzrira looks to Amir.
Perhaps he is correct. It would probably not hurt to get a good quantity of arrows with cold iron heads. They don't cost much and are much more effective against that b!tch div.
She then turns back to Master Abdul-Abadar.
We shall have to speak as a group as to what is be done with the scroll. Should we decide to leave it here in Katapesh, I believe that your offer to secure it would be strongly considered as the Vaults here are rumored to be without compare in all of the Inner Sea, perhaps in all of Golarian.
Karethas nods, "The Dean may not be happy about it, but it IS the most secure place. Even assuming the Church is interested in the relic itself, they have a vested religious interest in keeping their vaults sacrosanct."
Amir bobs his head at the suggestion of the vault, I would consult with the Dean and see how he feels about its security. I am sure some arrangement could be made and ultimately I can think of no safer place.
On the other point Amir throws up his hands in absolute agreement,Cold iron for all of us. It might even be worth finding a longspear or such so I might stab that b$*$& or any other like her in their foul heart... Amir reddens slightly then looks at the Master, Ah sorry. We've had some trouble with such creatures, its a point of agitation.
Moving to leave Amir offers a respectful bow to the priest, Once we are supplied and have talked to the Dean we will make our way onto the road. We will send word on our departure if we do not speak again before.
Kzrira looks at Amir and rolls her eyes:
Unless you wish for me to fight with a blade, we will have to return here prior to leaving so that I can retrieve my bow. Thus, notwithstanding the Master being unavailable, we could speak with him again at that time should we need any additional information at that point.
Varkata says, "They did say we could wait and pick up the bow before w leave. I would think that's the best course of action... it might give the Dean some additional time to work on it, if Karethas trusts him that much."
Amir offers a mock playful insulting gesture, I assumed you would merely try to barb the creature with your acidic wit. Of course we will retrieve your bow. That. Arrows and other cold iron that is available. Then the dean. If Radi has not shown up by the time we mean to leave we might need to take a detour. His disappearance is of concern to me but I will not rush to judgement yet.
The high priest seems satisfied with your response and wishes you well until your next meeting. On the way back to Dean Xobhadi's villa, the party stops by the Sand Dragon Inn to see if Amir's errant retainer has reappeared. Indeed, he finds Radi waiting at a table inside looking a bit nervous.
Amir cocks an eyebrow at the man and makes no play at being anything other than annoyed with the man, What is it Radi?
As the group starts to approach, Varkata whispers, "Are we planning on bluffing him, or shall I cast a Zone of Truth?"
Amir waves off Varkata in a "wait and see" fashion.
Kzrira nods to Varkata. I think it would be a good option. But, lets see what our Abadarian sleuth can find out first.
What is it Radi?
Radi stands and bows stifly, "Sayyid, I remain grateful that you rescued me from the Gnolls, but I fear that I can no longer serve you. It is obvious to me that you disregard my advice and send me off on foolish missions while you consult with others behind my back."
Kzrira raises her eyebrows in concern at Radi's comment.
Radi, correct me if I am wrong. But, to go behind someone's back, generally the person "going behind the back" is in a subservient position. Are you attempting to infer that you are somehow in a superior position here?
Varkata nods at Kzrira's comment, then turns to Radi, her tone slightly acerbic, "I believe that you have confused the concept of 'servant'. Were we to only take your advice, Radi? Are you then more wise than we?"
Radi scowls at Amir's companions, "In the ways of the market, yes, I would say that I could instruct you just as the archer could beat me in shooting and Cayden's priestess in drinking. But, it is obvious you think nothing of my assistance and I'm tired of your insults. Others would treat me far better."
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Amir nods knowingly, Your assertions would be a true, were they correct. But I am your elder in life and these markets. I risked my life to save you as did my friends... Amir pauses for a moment and gestures at Kzrira, Except for her she was already dead...Regardless I will not have you stand in front of me, chastising me like some errant pup when I have treated you exceedingly fair. Did you flit about the great market airing MY business? Yes you did... Amir steps towards Radi clearly angry showing no regard for causing a scene, Have you risked my life and the life of my friends by doing so? YES. And yet I asked them to be patient. Amir points a finger at Radi as his face flushes, I sent you on tasks. To prove your worth. I sent you on errands to gauge your loyalty. I did not listen? YOU did not listen and stay when I asked it. Trust is earned. Bought. Paid for. Discretion. Knowledge. Humility. Ability. THESE are what it takes to make the markets work. To fill your pockets with the coins you richly care for. Amir flips his hand at Radi as though to be done with him and turns, Take your indignation somewhere else. It is I who am disappointed...and foolish.
Amir sighs heavily. You want to leave? Then go. But if I see you again, attempting some act upon my business, if you go to some other party and attempt to take what I spilled blood to gain, I will exact every measure of justice I can from you and you will wish the div was still your mistress.
Amir offers a steely gaze to the man, defying him to say something.
Radi flinches at Amir's gesture and offering no response other than a sneer, quickly slinks out of the inn and into the night.
Karethas stands by the door through the conversation. He looks outside, thinking that Radi may have already set them up for a betrayal.
Amir gestures for the group to come together, I apologize my friends, you all had your concerns about the man, I was hoping to temper his impatience with the promise of something more meaningful. Regardless I suspect we now all assume that we will see that one again some day, probably with a knife in hand. I would have us leave for the Dean's with haste to arrange transport of the scroll. Amir looks to see what the others think...
