"That mercenary's name was," Laori then whispers, "Kazavon. *giggle*" She looks about from Wednesday, to Firdall, and then Tiadora. "And they say he was a cruel man indeed, that is, before the history books lose interest in him."
She picks up the one with the tusked camels. "Many centuries ago, after the Pit of Gormuz vomited forth Rovagug's destructive spawn, one of them tore across the land of Vudra, leaving destruction in its wake, terrorizing the people of the surrounding kingdoms. These brave N'Darri tribesmen raced through the trail of destruction to seek aid. They found it in Zon Kuthon. By giving themselves and their people over to him, they were able to save their people from the destruction and became a Chosen People of the Midnight Lord."
"Have you tried a different style, or maybe talk with some Desnans? Kuthonites would certainly give you encouragement but that might not exactly help where you're at right now."
Despondently, Salvator says, "I have been trying, but I can't seem to get it right. Something's missing and I'd do just about anything to get it back."
Laori picks up on Salvator's despondent answer and offers, "I can escort you back to my order, if you'd like, Salvator. There are a great many things we'd like to discus with you about your art and inspiration."
"That's an interesting history lesson and all, it really is, but how is all this relevant now?" Tiadora asks.
"Fan! Old Pilts wasn't a fan," Laori scoffs. "He wanted to own Salvator. To control him. We want to exalt Salvator. We want to appreciate his works, not hide them away. I'm willing to take those paintings off your hands, by the way. I'll pay good money too." She jingles a pouch of coins.
"Salvator will be safe with us. You can trust me on that."
If she's hiding something, she gives no indication. She seems quite sincere.
"Your call." Tiadora says looking at the painter. "If you'd like to throw your lot with Laori here and her..friends, you're welcome to."
Wednesday nods in agreement with Tiadora while watching Salvator.
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Speaking to Laori, "If you have a safe way off the island, I guess that puts you ahead of us. We were just going to have to work on that.
If Sal wants to go with you, I'll have no problem, but for my piece of mind, can give me a sacred vow that you will keep him safe, treat him well, and if his muse has left him, his art takes him in a new direction, or if he wants to leave, then you will release him somewhere safe with the money for the paintings?"