PFS 5-16 Destiny of the Sands Part 3: Sanctum of the Sages (Inactive)

Game Master TheBobJones

"I like the way you think, Toorin!" Xûll claps the man, probably a little too hard, on the shoulder, "I believe that plan might work. He will probably ask why Amenopheus wants him to have the book, though. We need to be prepared with a decent story of half-truths in that case.

"However, for all of this, while I do not believe Cutie Pie has pure motives by any stretch of the imagination, I also do not believe he is inherently evil. He will be vying for power in some way. I do not think we need to try too hard to pervert the tasks he gave us. We do have a remit from our leaders to do what he asks, if you want absolution. The risks involved in getting Cutie Pie angry with us are quite high."

"That makes much more sense, Warpac." Pooka smiles, fully understanding the dwarf's meaning now.

"Xull has the right of it. Tor... damn. Cutie pie is certainly selfish, perhaps not so much outright evil. Subverting his tasks would be amusing, but if not for our gain, then what is the point? If not for our gain, then it is an unneccessary risk that could comprimise our true mission here."

Pooka shuffles his feet, shifting the weight of his body and armor to the other leg as the group continues the fruitful discussion.

"We can use the other mechant's displeasure with Ionacu to our advantage. We approach one of them and ask them to deliver the book with a delivery of supplies, and Ionacu is none the wiser for it. We place it in a case so the scrying does not work, and when we are finished with all of our tasks, we use that fact to change our position in the barganing."

Having a tough time trying to put my thoughts into words that make sense. The book in the box allows us to tell torch that his scrying won't work if he tries to screw us over in the end. If he does live up to his end of the bargain, we can remedy the book in a box situation. Something like that.

So that is my idea - I am totally ok with whatever we decide. I think we know what we need, and any of the plans have just as much chance for success and failure. Just wanted to mention that so we don't have to keep discussing unnecessarily.

Toorin looks again at the exact wording of the task.
"The instructions say to place the book with his 'personal effects.' So simply having a merchant place it with the caravan supplies might not work, since 'personal effects' suggests his backpack or something he carries with him. There is also the need for CP to know that we accomplished the task. If this book is meant to allow him to scry on the scholar and he finds he cannot do so, he may assume we did not place the book as required."

"So it think when all is said and done, we should try to accomplish this just as requested and let the buffalo chips fall where they may. If we want to be sure the book is in his personal effects, we will probably need to go in person, locate the effects and then distract him so we can deposit the book."

"We can plan a distraction or make something up when we get there."

"I suggest we place the book, then After we inform our contact of the job done, we offer him to scry the book to prove we have accomplished it, then we inform the merchant, whom we have already met and set up a rapport with whilst stashing the book, that we overheard that he may be being watched and must take means about scrutiny, he asked us to place the book, not ensure he left with it."

Amarok speaks as though he has Ben mulling it over for some time, "I will go with the group decision however, this is not my forte and I may be suggesting plans which may be too far. I have, however sworn a vow of truth and so will keep quiet in our dealings with the merchant and our contact to avoid ruining our mission."

"I like the idea, Amarok. However, offering Cutie Pie the opportunity to scry the book tips our hand a little," Xûll notes, wrinkling his brow in thought, "After all, he does not know that we know it. Telling him he should do something will make him suspicious. I suspect he'll scry for the book to test us out anyway before day's end. We would be best to make arrangements to have someone else tell the merchant on our behalf (perhaps using our names) - but after we have what we want.

"I say we get someone else, by the way," Xûll adds as an afterthought, "Because who knows what we'll be caught up in by then. You have good hearts, all of you, and I am proud to call you my companions. Let us do this distasteful thing, but let us make sure we get what we need out of it also."

Happy with the distract-and-plant play, but also happy to wing things when we get there... also happy if someone decides (at some point) that another plan will work better.

Basically, Xull is happy

To juxtapose Master Al'Far's caravan with Ionacu Lozar's is a lesson on what not to do when setting up an expedition in Osirion..

More than a dozen camels are tethered outside a large pavilion tent while a score of porters pack supplies for what looks to be a grand archeological expedition. Crates of tools, coils of rope, and sacks of dried food lie in piles waiting to divided up among the beasts of burden. Within the sumptuously appointed pavilion, stacks of scrolls and hand-drawn maps lie strewn across a canopied bed. A tall, dark haired northerner with a thick eastern accent and persistent scowl supervises the storm of activity while checking over an inventory scrawled in a well-worn ledger.

“Where are those amphorae of water? This expedition won’t last a week in the Pillars of the Sun without water!”

He spies you walking towards the camp and breaks off from shouting at the nearest porter to stand hand on hip scowling at you.

Warpac hangs back, his lips scrunched, almost a parody of what it would look like if sewn tightly together.

Not this time! If there's a spot of trouble I'll be ready, but there's not way I'm going to mouth off. No way...

Warpac figures his job is to keep watch for trouble, or create a distraction if necessary. He's good at that at least.

"Greetings! Ionacu Lozar, is it not? My name is Xûll and I am a skilled trader from the northern lands," he smiles and produces his hand that Ionacu might shake it, "I hear you have been having trouble getting some of the local merchants to come up with the goods. I think I might be able to help you somewhat as an intermediary... if you are willing to pay me, of course.

"And you would have to agree to either keep quiet around those merchants, or correct your attitude problem." Xûll smiles and holds his hands palm-up and outwards to show that he meant no harm with that last remark.

Xûll is genuinely prepared to help him negotiate with some merchants. Mostly, I just want to engage Ionacu at this point. Distraction time will hopefully present itself some time after Korasu is in position.

Toorin approaches the caravansary and looks around, trying to locate where Ionacu's wagon or tent is or to spot his backpack.

Perception roll?

Toorin - no roll needed. The large pavilion is his lodgings and his backpack would be kept there. There also is no wagon, sand and all, so camels are the expedition's transport. In close proximity to the pavilion are the piles of items waiting to be divided up and packed, which both Ionacu and the porters were flitting about. No map for this encounter, and none really needed. He is between you and the pavilion/loading area.

"Xull." the man nods. " I am Ionacu. Who is this that you have brought with you? Who is telling you that I need help the merchants and what can you do to help me?"

Round 1 - Make a Friend Since you are trying the friendly route please add a Diplomacy check to your dialogue with Ionacu, indicate Primary or Aid, and make sure your Role fits your Roll ;) Any feel free to talk.

Amarok hangs at the back of the group as they make their way towards the expedition, keeping his eye out for any trouble heading their way.
He is quiet during the exchange with the merchant, refusing to engage in conversation as he would need to inform the merchant of the scrying device.

The Monk looks across the expedition, looking out for his comrade Korasu, ready to support him if he looks to come to harm.

"Ohh... that's awkward. I'm sorry Ionacu. My name is Pooka, good friend of Xull here. We assumed you knew the merchants were unhappy with you and your expedited timeline. Its all the talk out on the streets, and word has it that is why some of your deliveries are so late. I am truly sorry we are the ones to bring this news to you, but on the bright side, as Xull said, we can help. For a price."

Pooka smiles a genuine, beaming halfling smile. Luna sits next to him and pants heavily, the only way she knows how to rid her body of the excess heat.

Diplomacy aid: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21

Thinking maybe I should use another scroll of endure elements on you, poor girl...

Since Korasu isn't here with us (sneaking out back) I'll make a primary.

"We have made some friends in the city. Have you heard the name 'Mahu'?" Xûll lets the importance of the name settle in a little, "He is a friend of ours and his name carries great weight with anyone who wants to get anything in or out of the city... which is everyone, is it not?

"Well, in any case, the merchants are not happy with you and your brusque nature," Xûll smiles again to try to allay any suspicion that he might be insulting the man, "But we do not mind it at all. Would you like to get out of here before the Pillars crumble to dust from age, or would you prefer to wait for the merchants to come around on their own?"

Diplomacy, Mahu bonus (if applicable): 1d20 + 11 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 11 + 2 = 33

Before going to the caravan

Korasu snaps his fingers. "I have a potential idea... prior to departing the bazaar, we find a large and poorly stoppered jar of ink, which I will place on top of the prayer book with the belongings... perhaps even adding a dollup of it to smudge the pages in advance? It is not our fault if the scholar notices the ruin of his belongings and decides to not bring the prayer book, yes?"

Approaching the caravan
Korasu tries to leave some distance from the rest of the group, adopting the gamble of a practiced merchant and caravaneer. He keeps and eye out for any possible approach to the Caravan, and shadows he could hide in to slip in and out of sight (if possible and inconspicuous.) Sightblinder, steal your servant from their eyes...

"It is as my honourable friends say," Says Amarok calmly from the back, still keeping half an eye out for his comrade.

He gives the merchant with a polite bow, trying to get the read of the man and his current temperament, wondering if there is and undercurrent of fear that pushes the man to leave quickly, or just ignorance of other cultures.

"Cultures must be appreciated, as should methods of doing business, we happen to have insight into how Eto works and can aid."

Sense Motive: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (4) + 12 = 16

Diplomacy, aid, Mahu: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (16) + 0 = 16

As Korasu approaches the caravan, he fails to notice any real possible spots for hiding or sneaking close to the pavilion. Roll me a stealth check if you want.

At the honeyed words of Pooka, Xull, and Amarok, Ionacu yells to a porter.

The porter hustles over and places a canvas tripod in front of him.

The man wearily sits downs, looses the kerchief tied at his neck, and begins to fan himself with his pith helmet.

"You speak truly. I do not understand these Osirion merchants. In Ustalav, an apple is 1 silver. Here the same apple is 100 gold and they want to haggle with you for 15 minutes to sell it to you for 5 copper.

"I need to get to the Pillars. So you say you can help me, but I must pay you. What is this payment? You sound as if you hail from Taldar, give me the 'Taladan price' if you will. I'm in no mood to haggle."

stealth: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (15) + 10 = 25 Not hiding, per se, but trying to be nonchalant and not attract attention while I scope out a possible avenue, or figure out where the book should go

Nonchalantly and trying his best to blend in, Korasu approaches the loading area, looking for a possible angle in and especially looking for what might qualify as Ionacu's effects. No shade to hide in... Perhaps blend in with the Porters, deliver the cargo, then Vanish?

He appears what he is, a scholar and practiced caravaner, not worth the notice of the porters that are busily focused on their work. Or so he fervently hopes.

I swear, I never thought I'd find a relevant use for the Seamless Guise ability, but I can make a Disguise Check if needed.

Response to Korasu's suggestion about the ink: "We were instructed to place the book in his personal effects 'without him suspecting anything is amiss.' If he spots it and leaves it behind, that might nullify the accomplishment of the task, since it could be argued Ionacu did suspect something was amiss."

Toorin approaches the group, casually, as if he is just catching up to the rest, but finds a spot within 30' of one of the camels being loaded with supplies. He whispers to those near the back of the group, "I'm ready with a distraction. I can punch from a distance at the flank of one of the camels to try to spook it into bolting."

He glances from time to time in the direction of Korasu to see when he is in position to make the delivery.

"Perhaps our payment doesn't need to be in simple gold coins. We represent an organization much bigger than each of us individually. Perhaps the payment can be a relationship we develop. The pathfinder society seeks knowledge and artifacts. We seek to understand the history of this world, and then use that knowledge to learn and shape our future. The society, and particularly the Sapphire Sage would be most interested in what you are able to uncover at the pillars. You are an important academic. What would you give to have the library in Absalom at your disposal? What would that be worth to you?"

Pooka's bright eyes peer into Ionacu's, searching for a spark of recognition, hoping he has tossed out the right bait to capture all of his attention.

Then he hopes that Korasu recognizes the opening and takes the opportunity when it arrives. If it arrives...

Xûll raises an eyebrow as Pooka mentions the Pathfinder Society, and Amenopheus specifically. He had originally intended to keep that aspect of their lives quiet. The Shoanti shrugs and continues along with Cyrus's beginning.

"As members of the Pathfinders, we are mostly interested in items of lore. Gems and jews and other gewgaws are not as interesting to us," he lets that settle in, "Since you are leading an expedition to the Pillars, perhaps you would be willing to give us first offer at any tomes or items of historical significance. If we cannot afford them, then just let us copy things down and catalog what you have found. In return for that, we can smooth things over with the merchants.

"We will work tirelessly and be mindful of any distractions until your goods are in order. When do you plan to take off?"

Xûll looks meaningfully over to Warpac and Toorin as he says 'distractions', hoping they get the message.

" What my friends reveal is true, Master Scholar, I would happily engage as a go between for your honoured self and the knowledgeable Sapphire Sage, as we share a faction within the society."

Amarok hopes that their words have managed to sway the man and haven't harmed their chances in forging a bond with Ionacu.

Sense Motive

Honestly, I though the payment would be to travel with the prayer book. Amarok, I always assume in a dialogue you are tying to sense motive. Assume you believe him to be telling you the truth unless I say otherwise. Less rolls - faster interactions.

He looks to Pooka, then Xull, and lastly towards Amarok.

"Pathfinders. I have heard of your organization and the mixed reception it carries. I too work for an organization of sorts. The knowledge that I seek is specific and private. It is not information that I could share. Should I find other information, I would be willing to share it.

"As long as you know the risks, I would accept this deal provided that you can alleviate my troubles with the merchants."

He motions for one of his porter to come over. "Fetch ink, quill and paper so I may write down the names of the merchants for these fine men."

A porter scrambles off to the pavilion and comes back bearing writing utensils. He begins making a list of all the merchants. Once done, he shakes the paper back and forth, drying the ink.

He hands it over. "Here is the list. I wish you well."

Feel free at any time to create the distraction, though I will tell you should you win the merchants to your side you will get a bonus on planting the evidence. Up to you.

Begin Task 2 : Win the merchants over or Task 3 Plant the book

Korasu tenses up, waiting for the distraction to come... then cocks his head in an almost comical manner as he catches part of the conversation for negotiating with the merchants.

Truly, no battle plan survives contact with teammates.

He lingers a moment to ensure that is the course the rest of the group goes towards but looks for the best opening to meld back into the crowd and re-join the team.

Perfectly fine with going the "making friends" route. Also, as there wasn't consensus for sabotaging the book, Korasu was going to forgo the ink or any other plot to make sure the mission succeeds.

Sorry. Had doctors appointment and a production issue at work. One distraction coming up...

Warpac walks curiously by, ax constantly on the move as always, when the edge not-so-accidentally severs a tether securing a camel. The most restless one of course.

"CRAP!, Not again! Stand still you filthy hairy beast!"

He grabs the rope attempting to yank the camels head down close enough to the post or whatever it was tied to so he can tie it off. When the animal gives him the eye, he says.

Oddly enough Warpac DOES have handle animal so let's make a roll to cause some havoc.

Handle Animal: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (19) + 6 = 25

"Well I don't like you either, sour-puss... Don't worry everyone, I've got this under control. No camel is going to get the best of ME."

Warpac & Diversion Team I need you to make a bluff check. Anyone who is assisting in this diversion may also roll provided you make a role play post as Warpac has done. Again please indicate aid or primary.

Diplomacy team Should the diversion team fail (I will let you know), you have a chance to remedy the situation with bluff or diplomacy.

Regardless, Korasu I will need a stealth or sleight of hand check to plant the book. Feel free to post and roll in a spoilered action those checks, and I will adjust depending on the outcome of the other teams.

Here's my bluff. I'm hoping I can be the aider or get tons of aid. Warpac is not much on bluffing either.

bluff: 1d20 - 2 ⇒ (8) - 2 = 6

I couldn't even fool the camel with that roll.

Primary Bluff.
Bluff: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (16) + 5 = 21
Just as Warpac begins to struggle with the camel, Toorin sends a telekinetic fist at the camel's backside to make it more unruly and then rushes over to try to help get the beast under control. "Watch where you swing that axe you clutz!" He hope is the camel isn't enough of a distraction, a fight between a dwarf and an elf might be even better.
Ranged Touch Attack: 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (11) + 3 = 14
Damage: 1d4 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5

Working in tandem, Toorin and Warpac manage to make a convincing distraction. "Ionacu! The camel!" one of the porters shouts.

The Osirionologist shakes his head in weary resignation and makes his way over, only to see that Warpac has the situation under control.

"Even the camels are against me today. Many thanks friend" He laments in a weary voice.

The distraction was the perfect opening for Korasu to momentarily slip into the pavilion and stow the book there.

He turns back to Xull, Pooka, and Amarok, "So we have a deal?"

Success You have completed your first task! You can still agree to help him, he is a bit of a disaster. We can quickly do a merchant scene if you want to have a feeling of 'completeness'. Also you did not sabotage Cutie Pie. You can still do that before we move on. In the meantime - Task 2 Do you just want to go in order, or do you want to pick? I'd prefer to have you decide the next three so I can have everything 'prepped' though most is done already. Nice job boys - very clever!

I'd still like to help him, but that can happen in cut scenes if you like. Moving on seems best here.

"Yes, Ionacu, we have a deal!" Xûll claps his hand over the man's forearm and brings him in close for a smile.

As he and the others are out of ear shot, he adds, "Well done on the distraction. I think I will help him out. If nothing else, it will be nice to help him out before whatever Cutie Pie wants to do with that book happens. Also, we could use helping him as leverage for extra points with Cutie Pie. We can say we discovered his expedition was doomed to fail, and so we took it upon ourselves to ensure he went."

Cut scene: Talking to the merchants

Xûll notes the frustration on the merchant's faces and decides for the manipulative ploy, "Ah, yes. Ionacu is so brusque and annoying. Truly the merchants of Eto are as honorable and principled as I had heard. They turn away a chance to make a better than average profit because the man who will pay them does not wish to waste their time and his. This man does not even want to haggle you down to a hundredth of your starting price to placate your ancient traditions. The gall! Can you imagine? Someone wants your final price and is willing to pay it if it is reasonable... or even 10% above reasonable... but he's not willing to work to get it. He thinks you can just give it to him. Ha! Profits be damned. You will live a life of poverty before you tell a man your real price rather than haggle."

Aiming to improve their attitude and then make a request.

Diplomacy, Mahu bonus, attitude adjust: 1d20 + 11 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 11 + 2 = 23

The Shoanti hopes the merchants begin to doubt themselves. "So, what if a Shoanti were to haggle for your prices and then simply sell them to Ionacu at a 10% mark up? Or do you think the great merchants of Eto would prefer to increase their own margins at the expense of a little pride? Last I checked, pride had no gold piece value..."

Diplomacy, Mahu bonus, request to aid Ionacu: 1d20 + 11 + 2 ⇒ (15) + 11 + 2 = 28

The present...

"So, back to Cutie Pie now? Let's finish this one off so we can move on to the next," Xûll thinks for a while, "I'd like to try talking peacefully to Zelekhati first. If that fails, I will still have a chance to make things right and get that extra deal for Aaqir al'Hakam."

The merchants look at one another. "Profits are there to be had you are true. But the man is an Osirionologist. How can one study so long and no nothing of its living people? What if a group of Kellids had moved onto your lands. And started to throw away your traditions, your customs? What price would be acceptable for you to loose your heritage?

"Bah no matter! Let us get this man out of Eto and see him on his way. Talk to him Xull, if he makes these same mistakes we will not be so accommodating again."

The men kiss on both cheeks before the cacophony of human mercantilism takes over. Scurrying about like a disturbed ant hill, supplies are loaded on heads and shoulders and the chaos become and orderly procession of porters and supplies headed towards Ionacu's camp.

One for Task 2, one I don't care. Unless there are objections I will move in order. Expect Task 2 up in a few hours.

And 1 free Internet cookie for all who still wanted to help Ionacu <3

The Pathfinders make good use of their time in the Eto market to find out a bit more about their next task. Speaking with locals and making friends, they learn:

Madame Zelekhati recently began hiring more workers at the Dancing Dunes, though she sends away most who don’t have at least some elven blood.

Mistress Zelekhati of the Dancing Dunes is a collector of magical dusts and always accepts them as payment for her house’s services or her artwork. Some say that’s the secret of her magnificent tranquility garden. It may even have given the sand life as one customer claims he saw the patterns shift of their own accord.

With their first task complete and the merchant aided In the bargain, Amarok seems in much higher spirits. With a few enquiringly the goup have managed to make some headway into their next task. Once they have some clues he gives his opinion.

"Some promising leads, it would seem that the dunes is vastly increasing business and we have a method of buying at least an audience with the proprietor, I suggest we find out more of this dust before speaking with the Madame"

You are in a bazaar - go for it! :)

"I will go and spend some time at this Zelekhati's establishment, see what I can learn about the garden and drop hints that I know of some newly discovered alchemical ingredients just in from the desert and offer to try to send the seller her way. That might give us some clues. I have a question to ask her anyway about my long lost friend. I doubt she would be interested in such a place, but others who patronize the place might have heard of her in the area."

Toorin likely knows something about magic dust, given his spellcraft bonus (+9+1d6).

"But if you want, I can see what I can find out about this magic dust first." Toorin looks decidedly less enthusiastic about this second option.

"Only likes elves, eh?" Xûll gives Toorin a friendly jab in the ribs, "Just as well we have one of those. I think finding out about this dust would give us an advantage... especially if we are able to obtain some. I suspect the magic dust has a lot to do with how she spies on people."

The Shoanti accompanies Toorin to the bazaar to help out (diplomacy bonus +11 +2 Mahu bonus).

"It occurs to me, Toorin, that you could also potentially hire on with Zelekhati and infiltrate her organization a little."

"You want me to work in a place where beautiful elf and half-elf maidens dance about in scant clothing? As a Pathfinder, I am honor bound to enter any place, no matter the circumstances. You can count on me. But first, let's see what we can find out about this dust."

Toorin travels with Xûll to the arcane quarter and approaches a merchant selling spell components and alchemical supplies. "Good morning. May your camels always find shade and water. I have been tasked with locating some kind of arcane dust as a gift for a particular elven business owner in the area. What do you recommend?"

Not sure if you want to make his rolls for knowing about the dust and also for diplomacy, so I made the rolls under a spoiler. I have not looked at the results, for what it's worth.

"Ah my good man. I have many dusts available for purchase. What is it you are trying to accomplish? Do you want hide from people so that they cannot track you? Why I have dust of tracelessness. Only 500 pieces of gold for you as you look like you know how to use it, and might need to avoid ... unwanted attention. Am I right? Haha. One could always use the dust of dryness to soak up some water. Oooh. You can use it in the desert should you become stranded to create your own Oasis! Then sell the waters to others and become rich beyond your dreams. That I can sell for 1000 pieces of gold, but you should make that back a hundred fold!

'So what will it be my good friends?"

You will only pay market price unless you can make an Appraise check, then I can give you a discount as we are in Eto.

"As I said, it is meant as a gift for the elf who runs the Dancing Dunes, a Mistress Zelikat or Zelikati. I suppose the dust of dryness might be helpful for her garden. Have you heard what she values? Perhaps she has purchased from you before? I will gladly add ten gold pieces to the price we agree on if you can help me select something she would like."

As he talks, he examines one of the dust of dryness bottles appraisingly. He holds the bottle in one hand and gestures with his other and says, "Draíonta déanta a léiriú" and examines it some more.

Detect magic. Appraise bonus is +4, untrained.

Appraise: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21

He has given you the market price + 10 gp

"Ahh, Madame Zelekhati. The owner of The Dancing Dunes. She is an elf that likes only the best. The dust of dryness is nice , but I would say that a dose of this Dust of Weighty Burdens should make her happy. And you say that you will give me an extra 1o pieces of gold. Excellent, let us say 3,610 pieces of gold."

Toorin Sense Motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (11) + 5 = 16

You believe him to be truthful

Upon hearing Toorin cast a spell a dark look crosses the merchants face. "Ah friend, why do you cast a spell? Do you not trust me? I had thought that you and I were friends but now that you shamed me by not trusting me I think that we shall agree on a different price, for my honor. Which dust would you like?" He ends tersely.

The dust of dryness he is holding does glow with moderate aura (transmutation)

Warpac will wander about the bazaar looking for potential 'magical dust' vendors to speed up the process, though he is not foolish enough to actually try and haggle with anyone he will ask questions.

perception: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (14) + 6 = 20
appraise: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (16) + 2 = 18

If he finds anything potentially useful, he will report back to the group to steer them to the person in question.

"No, I'm just looking" will be his motto.

Warpac learns that there are few merchants that sell magical dusts. All have heard of Madam Zelekhati, and they all recommend very expensive dusts.

Warpac muses that he would expect nothing less of people trying to sell him things.

"Since she sells her services in exchange for dust, perhaps we do not need to buy it..." Xûll balks at the steep prices, "Do you think you could have a go at being hired, Toorin? Maybe if we go as a package deal. Something like that. Again, though, deception is not my strong point. Maybe we could negotiate with her another way... we are Pathfinders, after all, and we are interested in secrets. Maybe she would be willing to tell us how she comes by them..."

"Hmmm. Perhaps a two-pronged approach? Korasu and Toorin, do you think you could get hired? We could then try to chat with Zelekhati through the regular channels."

Some dust of tracelessness may help to 'break the ice', but Xûll's pretty close to broke.

Amarok walks through the bazaar with Warpac, as they look at dust he also tries to make some enquiries regarding Mistress' business, where does she get all the elven dancers as they seem fairly rare in these parts. At one of the dust sellers stalls he decides to ask the merchant about the place.

"Excuse me fine sir, have you been to the Dancing Dunes? I hear the dancers are like a work of art, but you seem a shrewd and honest man so I would value your opinion."

"I can only offer a few gold to the cause should we decide to buy some magical dust to grease the wheels. I am also ill trained in almost anything arcane, and so truly may not be of much use here. Perhaps I can offer a simple solution? Though it may be to simple to work.

So my idea is that I will be a patron. I will speak with different employees, in different areas. I will name refer to Luna with a different name each time. Then you can barter with her for information on me, particularly the name of my dog. Whatever name she gives you will likely be the information leak. Unless she has multiple sources... I suspect that if torch is having a difficult time figuring it out, it is likely magical in nature."

Pooka scrunches his face, still thinking. "There are holes in that plan though, so perhaps it won't work."

oof... All that and I've got nothing... Going to read it again and see if that sparks an idea.

-Posted with Wayfinder

"Ah, The Dancing Dunes. I have not had the opportunity to visit that establishment, as I am happily married to the most wonderful woman. She is my moon and stars and I thank Desna for her everyday.

He leans in and whispers, "But I have this friend, who has, and he has told me that some say that during the day it is a teahouse, others have said at night it is a cabaret, and a very select few have described it as a den of ill repute even later in the night."

"But of course I know nothing of this as I am a happily married man!" He gives Amarok a wink.

Upon hearing Toorin cast a spell a dark look crosses the merchants face. "Ah friend, why do you cast a spell? Do you not trust me? I had thought that you and I were friends but now that you shamed me by not trusting me I think that we shall agree on a different price, for my honor. Which dust would you like?" He ends tersely.

Toorin does not flinch at this outburst and says, "I have never seen you before in my life. I'm not about to spend thousands of gold pieces for what might be nothing more than sweepings from a housewife's doorstep. Be insulted if you wish. I will be back if my employer wants to buy some of your dust, or perhaps others in this bizarre are less sensitive and will not mind an honest buyer inspecting the merchandise for quality. Thank you for your time."

Back with the group.
"Sounds like buying dust will not be feasible. I too only have a meager sack of gold of my own. Still we have good intel. The dust may not be significant, just something she fancies. I'll be happy to spend some time at the place, try to talk with her, ask if she needs a capable elf to work for her. I can will try to impress her with what I know and my other arcane skills. Perhaps that will reveal something."

"Well I found a few merchants selling dust, but it was all very expensive. I'm sure a haggler could get them down, but I'd probably end up driving the price up. If any of you are interested I could show you a few of them, but it sure looks like either these guys start with outrageous prices or someone has been driving the prices up around here!"