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You find a letter address to you waiting on the Lodge's table.
Pathfinders,
As the seasons change and the fickle winds alter their course to bring rain to a parched land, so too do the Ten once again turn their eyes toward Qadira and its riches. Sadly, the circumstances are tragic, not celebratory. Trade Princess Zarmina Bahjari, mentor and aunt-by-marriage to the esteemed Trade Prince Aaqir al Hakam, passed away recently, and the family is holding a wake for her at their estate in Katheer. The trade prince has asked a handful of agents to join him for this event, and I request that you do just that both as a show of solidarity for an important ally of the Society. I understand he also has other work for you that might prove quite lucrative,so as long as he does not ask for anything too bizarre, I trust you will honor his requests as you would my own.
I am away on business, but I had another agent retrieve several worthy items from my personal vault. Please take one to offer to the family in the name of the Society and me during the wake.
Be civil,
Venture-Captain Esmayl ibn Qaradi
You are to decide on a gift to bring to the wake: a silver-chased scimitar, a gold ring bearing three sapphires, or a steel shield bearing an image of Sarenrae painted in gold and studded with garnets.
Once you have decided this, you shall proceed to travel to meet Trade Prince Aaqir al'Hakam.
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An unkempt looking half-elf reads the letter, then carelessly tosses it back unto the Lodge's table. He seems gloomy, and upon realising the diplomatic nature of the mission, bored as well.
The half-elf barely spares a glance at the arrayed items "It matters not which we choose. The blade I suppose."
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"Wow! This guy really sucks at handing out orders!"
Nergi puts down the letter.
With a curious expression on her face, she wades her right hand through her ash blonde hair to scratch her head. She looks at the armor stand next to her belongings - her hardened, tanned hide is waiting to have another go at adventure. The bow, axe, and shield are there as well, as if calling to her. She looks at the letter and picks it up again. Her hands are the ones of a fighter - with dozens of small scars.
"Maybe I missed something?"
She reads the letter one more time...
"No..."
She sighs, and quickly walks towards her armor stand to don her gear.
She taps each item before departing, recounting them in her head: "Bow... Quiver... Axe... Shield... Wand... Rope... Backpack..."
Hoping she did not forget anything, she starts walking towards the lodge's entry hall. The shield on her back clunks loudly against the axe with every step, but she carries on without noticing. Only after it being pointed out by another agent, she readjusts both items and carries on.
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A dark haired woman of average height, wearing crimson leather armor, joins the group and begins going over the three gifts. With the exception of an occasional nod, the woman seems deep in thought over the perplexity of the three items.
After performing a close inspection of the items, she begins to run a finger down the length of the scimitar, then turns to face the rest of the mustering pathfinders.
“Well met everyone, I am Tatiana Ungaro, and it looks like I will be joining this newly formed group. I am looking forward to getting to know each of you as we make our way through the society’s next assignment. I have given some thought to the three choices we have for a presentable gift. If our business is with anyone who takes pride in their connection to Qadira, then I think the scimitar would be the most profound gift.”
Those observing Tatiana make her way around the room, note a tightly wrapped whip, which hangs loosely next to a well-crafted longsword strapped to her left hip. Grasped tightly in her left hand, stands a ten foot long pole with a large pathfinder society banner that radiates with inspiration and pride for anyone within the society.
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In light of the somber circumstances, Leatherhead arrives at the Lodge with slightly less explosive energy. "Finally... The Croc has come back to Qadira."
The reptilian pathfinder is a hulking brute formed from slabs of muscle and mottled green scales with a crocodile's head. His massive brawny form is on full display as he's naked save a pair of dark briefs, a thick highly decorated wrestling girdle, and a glossy red cape that's draped around his broad shoulders. A tiny plover periodically perches on his jaw long enough to pick at the big man's teeth.
Leatherhead looks the possible gifts over briefly before giving a disinterested shrug. "The Croc says: Tatiana's choice makes sense."
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Nergi stumbles into the room, geared for war - or a diplomatic mission. She works both ways. Seeing the three items on the table, she reassures herself that this is the place, and waves at the members of the gathering.
"Does ibn Qaradi always leave such non-specfic orders?", she smiles, walks towards the table and flips out the letter she received.
"I'm Nergi. I'll be a part of this mission. Pleasure to meet you."
She looks at the table and the items on it briefly, and her eyes start racing across faces of the pathfinders in the room.
"Do you have any idea what is customary for such an occasion? This will be my first trip south of Absalom, so I have no clue."
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Tatiana observes quietly as Nergi introduces herself. Eventually the bard responds to the halfling's question while pointing at the scimitar. "That!"
After considering the curved blade, Tatiana's eyes slowly shift over to the shield. "Well... hmm... this is complicated. With consideration to the fact that a large portion of the populace is devoted to Sarenrae in one form or another, the shield could also convey deep meaning. It would help to know more about Aaqir al Hakam or his ant Zarmina Bahjari."
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A tall Varisian man enters and bows deeply to the others. "Well, this is sad occasion, is it not? Guaril Karela sends his condolences, but he is away on business. I will convey his sympathies. My name is Teric Cain." The man nods to everyone.
His oily, pointed beard shines as he makes hi way over to the table. He reads the note and tosses it casually back on the table. "Well, far be it from me to stop the Trade Prince from turning this into a lucrative opportunity."
Examining the items, Teric tries to remember anything about the late Trade Princess.
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"The ring looks most valuable to me," Says a striking woman with hair like embers, eerie golden eyes, a gilded breastplate and fine clothes cut and molded to accentuate her stunning body, a gleaming black longsword at her side, and a heavy golden icon at her other side in the shape of four crossed swords.
She shrugs nonchalantly at apparently being outvoted. "I'm Nemesis Melek."
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You know that she was a religious woman, who primarily revered Sarenrae. As such, after some deep thought and recollection, you are able to recall the following about typical wakes in the city of Katheer, City of a Thousand Caravans.
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"With consideration that she was a religious woman, who revered Sarenrae, I might suggest the shield."
"I would expect the day to start out somewhat somber and begin to lighten up as the day progress. Traditionally there will be a lot of stories about the woman and her interactions with the people attending the event."
"There is a small chance they may participate in a less practiced funerary, which they will leave her body exposed to the sun for a week or so. Of course the body would be enchanted to keep it from decaying as family and friends watch over to keep scavengers away. If they participate in this ceremony, it wouldn't surprise me if they requested our assistance to help protect the body."
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Teric is impressed with Tatiana's knowledge. "Well, if they ask, it would be polite to accept the duty. I'm sure the Trade Prince will be grateful for our assistance. Perhaps he will share some of his wisdom with us." By Teric's tone, you can tell wisdom isn't what the man is interested in.
"It sounds like the scimitar and the shield would both be excellent gifts." He shrugs. "The shield sounds fine."
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Entering the room is a lanky, but well toned man in loose fitting clothing; in the white and blue of Irori. His features would identify him of Taldor descent.
In a steady but quiet voice, "I do not recall much of their faith. I would think the ring speaks to a life peace. I know not what they would think of us if we were to bring a gift that implies a life of violence."
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The journey to the Bahjari estate was a peaceful one, there you are greeted by some servants you immediate to your needs and direct you to the study where Trade Prince Aaqir al'Hakam awaits.
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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The Trade Prince turns to Bo Goh Twang, and addresses him" The only fierce rivalry that I'm aware of for sure is between Temel Passard and that of Metella Rauger. I shall have my servant assist you later in pointing out the five merchant's as they arrive and also to give you some background on their business's when you are ready to make your way to the main reception."
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You know this much about them, but you don't know their motivations. Although you do know that the rivalry between them has grown fiercer within the last year.
Temel Passad is a prophet of Kalistrade, one of Druma’s mercantile elite who follow strict philosophical tenets in their pursuit of wealth and prosperity.
Metella Rauger is a traveling representative of several Highhelm mercantile consortia. She recently signed a minor trade agreement with Aaqir al’Hakam, and thus far the arrangement has benefited her and the merchants she represents.
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Teric bows his head when the Trade Prince presents himself. He chuckles as al’Hakam explains his need of them. "Brilliant, Prince. Karela would be proud. He sends his condolences. I'd be happy to help you use this unexpected gathering to strengthen your position."
"Are there any rituals or customs we should know to avoid offending anyone at the funeral? And if these traders have specific positions or own particular trades, it would be helpful to know."
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" “The local custom is to wear at least some white. However, Zarmina had many foreign contacts who are likely to attend in many styles of dress, so as long as you are clean and presentable, you are welcome to wear what you wish. "
"All of them are business owners of their own trades," the Trade Prince notions a young servant to come over. "Ali here would bring you to the main reception and point them out as well as explain to you the nature of their business, If everyone is ready and there are no more questions, please follow him, he shall attend to your needs the rest of the night."
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The halfling observes the conversation in silence. She approaches Aaqir after her companions have finished with their questions:
"Allow me to express my condolences, Prince - It is nice to see that the situation did not bring you to your knees, so to speak. I am sure the deceased would approve of your current actions and state of mind."
She currently sports a more-less formal looking white cloak, but you could swear her attire was different when you left the lodge. She gives the price's servant a brief nod, and follows the man with the rest of the pathfinders.
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You follow the servant down the grand stairs, at this time the Prince still accompanies you to answer any lingering questions you have. As you make your way down the stairs Ali points out each of the honorary guest to you.
“Temel Passad 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."
“Doritannia Raffella 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.”
“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.”
“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.”
“Jakti al’Awar 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.”
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As you walk down the stairs suddenly Teric is dressed in a clean white shirt with a white shawl wrapped around his shoulders in respect. The Varisian swindler smiles at the assembled group. "Very good. Let's meet them, shall we?"
He steps toward Pellius Melkior, having heard the man's name during his own business dealings in Andor. "Pellius Melkior. It's an honor to finally meet you, though obviously, I wish the circumstances were more joyful. My name is Teric Cain. I run a small series of trade routes, dealing in unique goods. I have admired your abilities and your business network for quite some time. You have an excellent reputation among merchants for honesty and reliability, one I only wish emulate."
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Pellius is a clean-shaven man of average height with sandy-brown hair. "Good day Teric Cain, It is an honor to find another trader who bears the morales today. Yes, it is a shame to see us all gather here to today but it would be a waste not to make full use of the occasion eh?"
Temel=0
Doritannia=0
Metella=0
Pellius=1
Jakti Al'awar=0
Influence checks available:
2= Bo Goh Twang ,Nergi, Tatiana, Leatherhead, Nemesis
1= Teric Cain
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Curious as to how the hulking warrior will interact with others, the monk follows him early in the evening.
"These are unfortunate circumstances under which to make your acquaintance. However, these trying times can serve to bring people close together to help one another through the darkness to share a brighter future together."
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Tatiana moves off into the crowed and makes her way towards Temel Passad. "Well met kalistocrat Passad." Tatiana extends the customary greeting to the prophet, but refrains from making any physical contact.
"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Tatiana Ungaro. Myself and a few of my companions have come from Absalom during this time of loss to show our support for Prince Aaqir al’Hakam during these troubling times. As an agent of the pathfinder society, I would be remiss if I didn't recognize the the price's need to establish himself as the new prominent businessman of the estate. In fact, just a short time ago he professed a desire to attain your support as he begins his journey into the business world. I thought I would mention this to you seeing the society has had very positive interactions with both you and the prince. Personally, I believe the prince has a profound respect for your business model. At the minimum, it sounds like a business opportunity that the society would support."
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Most followers are atheist, and unlike followers of deistic faiths, practitioners of the Prophesies of Kalistrade seem to be unaffected by the death of Aroden, and see this as proof that their way of life is superior. To them, Aroden's death is evidence that gods can die, while traditions and ways of thinking can not be killed. And in a way, they might be correct, as the continual economic expansion of Druma speaks to the successes of their way of life. Despite their non-religious beliefs, followers of the Prophecies find they have much in common with the church of the god of merchants and civilization, Abadar
Temel Passad is a tall man with carefully groomed hair and an oiled beard. He wears pristine white clothing heavy with gold embroidery and gems. In following the tenets of the Prophets of Kalistrade, he avoids physical contact with others and partakes in only a small number of the refreshments available. He chuckles a while before replying Tatiana, "Greetings Tatiana, straight to the point! I'm very impressed. I have been meaning to venture, and I would be lying if I said I wasn't here to possible look for deals! Say, the society is very "skilled" in many of things. Maybe you could do me a favour, I'm sure it is no surprise Metella and I are great rivals, it would humor me most to see her fumble in her speech, I have it known that she's very particular about her speeches and keeps only one copy! Maybe in her bed room or on her, It would be in your favour. If you know what I mean.*wink*
Temel=3
Doritannia=1
Metella=0
Pellius=1
Jakti Al'awar=0
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Leatherhead joins Bo Goh and Tatiana in approaching Temel. Despite the circumstances the hulking wrestler moves with the infectious swagger that his adoring fans know him for.
"The Croc knows that you and Trade Prince Aaqir al’Hakam stand to be rivals in light of Zarmina's passing", he adds after the bard's introductions. "But the Society would hate to force to choose between two of its allies. Why not work with the Trade Prince and form a stable the likes of which the trade world would never forget? As a team you stand to make a lot more coin than as a couple of lone jabronis."
At the mention of a greater rivalry with Metalla, Leatherhead cocks a hairless brow. "Tell us more about Metalla. The People's Champion could get into her bedroom for the right reasons."
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Nemesis shows up in the customary oranges and yellows of her Elemental Lord, and shares a few wise words regarding socializing with her party including her impressive gilded breastplate. Finding the others a little bit boring after some standing back and observing, Nemesis decides to go after the interesting one - the "unknown" - and approaches Jakti al’Awar adjusting her breastplate and tight buckskin breeches for maximum "impact."
"Hey there. I heard you're a comparative outsider here. That gives us something in common. As a matter of fact, I hear you're a seasoned traveler for scholarly purposes, as well. That gives us something even better in common! I'm here representing the Pathfinder Society, which you probably know the deceased's nephew has always been an influential force in, particularly those who don't mind earning while they're learning. What was your relationship with the deceased, if I may ask?"
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Temel=Appraise, favor unlocked
Doritannia=social
Metella=social
Pellius=knowledge local
Jakti Al'awar=social
Actions available
2= leatherhead (diplomacy 22), Bo(aid+2), nemesis,Negri
1= tatiana, teric,
Temel is humored by the Society,"So it is true the Society never travels alone! It is good to meet a champion of the people. Well Metella, she could be a stubborn one but I know she for a fact loves pathfinder! Especially that funny widgets you have, our rivalry is one of history, in fact, I'm not so sure anymore why we are, but it humors me so. And I'd be much more humored if she messes her perfect speech!" More chuckling comes from the light hearted conversations between the pathfinders and Temel.
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Tatiana smiles at Temel's suggestion. "Well in a normal presentation, I would find that somewhat enjoyable myself, but I am afraid that it may have a dramatic impact on those who are in morning. I will consider your offer and console with my companions before making a decision of course. Your influence would defiantly be prized by the prince, and of course the society would enjoy the prospect of seeing your influence enhance the princes endeavor. I will let you know what the group decides."
With that, Tatiana excuses herself and make her way over to Metella. "Well met Lady Metella. I am Tatiana Ungaro, an agent of the Pathfinder Society. Myself and a few of my companions have come to this event to support the prince during his time of loss. After a brief audience with Prince Aaqir al'Hakam, it has come to my attention that he intends to pick up where his ant left off. During our discussion, the prince mentioned his interest in your support during his ascension to the estates business."
Tatiana shifts to a more comfortable posture while continuing her conversation. " On another note, I just found myself in an interesting conversation with kalistocrat Passad. It seems you two have had quite a relationship over the years. He was telling me how much he enjoys the competitive and challenging nature of your rivalry. Surly the man is fascinated by you to say the least." Tatiana smiles slightly after her last statement.
"The prince also mentioned his respect for the kalistocrat's ability in trade. I'm sure you can't deny the man's success. Could you imagine the profitability of two powerful business monarchs, such as yourself and the kalistocrat, finding common ground beside someone like the prince. The thought of the profit is staggering.
"One thing at a time I guess. For now the prince would like your support and wisdom with his upcoming ambition."
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***Nemesis***
Jakti is large and somewhat physically imposing figures.He responds favourably to you. "Ah the Society is well known from where I'm from, I'm here purely to make pleasantries and to meet fellow merchant's alike, hoping to find a new trade deal, I have no relationship with the deceased. It is rather hot isn't it, it's a shame the servants would not open the windows. Before we do go on and talk business, please enlighten me more about your religious studies.
).:
***Teric***
"Metella and I business partners at the moment, she means good but sometimes can be a stubborn lady, what not being of a warrior background. As for Temel, I know not much of him as favouring with him would surely put my business with Metella at a risk."
You sense that he respects Metella, earning influence with Metella will also earn Influence with Pellius.
***Tatiana, Leatherhead & Bo Goh Twang***
[b]"Is that a wayfinder I see? Surely you must be from the Society! I've had very good dealings with the Society in the past, and you all have my utmost respect. I bear no ill will towards the Trade Prince and certainly look for favourable oppurtunities in the future, in fact, I am hoping to expand my reach beyond just trade!
Speaking of Temel Passad, I hate him with my guts! He's always out to make a laughing stock out of me, if only I can get my revenge! If only someone were to switch his itching powder with snuffing powder. That'll show him a taste of his own medicine!
During this time you also notice Temel glancing at you, you may lose influence with him should you gain a lot with Metella.
Temel=3
Doritannia=1
Metella=3
Pellius=2
Jakti Al'awar=2
Temel=Appraise, favor unlocked
Doritannia=social
Metella=Profession, favor unlocked
Pellius=knowledge local
Jakti Al'awar= knowledge religion, favor unlocked
Actions available
2= leatherhead (diplomacy 22), Bo(aid+2),Negri
1= teric, Nemesis
0= tatiana
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The halfling scans the crows for Doritannia Rafella. Once she has her locaion, she quickly performs a short rite before diving into the crowd.
She laughs at herself: You fearlessly face demons and apparitions, but talking to a bunch of heavy-pursed traders makes you squirm.
She approaches Raffella and attempts to small talk: "Greetings! I don't believe we have been introduced, madam Raffella - allow me to break that ice. The name is Nergi Khalka, servant of the Pathfinders' Silver Crusade."
As she speaks, she gives the merchant a modest nod.
"I must admit, Trade Prince al Hakam seems to be taking it fairly well. That said, I am sure his aunt wouldn't want him to mourn and not engage in any other activities for months on end. Did you know the deceased?"
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***Nergi***
Doritannia is an attractive Taldan woman in her 30s with long brown hair. She is dressed finely but moves with none of the grace and bearing that might suggest a noble upbringing."Good day to you Nergi, I'm not very familiar with the Pathfindfer's work but I have known from stories that you are highly regarded in Temel and Metella's minds. I did not know the deceased, but I am here out of my work obligations and to pay respects. ANd yourself?"
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After Doritannia speaks, the halfling briefly checks the direction where she looked.
"Know the deceased? No - no, I did not. The trade prince has been an ally of the Society for a while now, however. We came to honour that relationship and support him in whatever hard times or moods might be upon him."
Nergi visibly turns her head and eyes towards Passad when speaking the last two sentences: "Although I am sure he will be fine. He is an independent individual and has his own experience in trade. Much like yourself, I heard. If I know anything about the Society, they are quite cosmopolitan. You can meet all of it among our ranks. That said, many opportunities to meet new people."
She looks back at her conversation partner again.
"I must admit, you piqued my curiosity. What kind of work obligations, if you don't mind me asking? The way I understand it, the Society and Trade Prince al Hakam are looking for more potential trade partners. Perhaps I could bring in a good word for you?"
"If you'd care to discuss any such matters in a less crowded area, that is."
She briefly looks at Passad again.