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The wayang listens to Fahaz's brief tale. Kivuli clearly identifies with the story, acutely feeling a shared sense of bittersweet victory. The conflicting nature of being successful at a job that takes one far from home. The better one is at it, the longer they are forced to be away from those things most precious to them. "I too have been far from home. While I am certain my time afar is a mere breath for you; I, more than most, have some understanding of what one must endure when living away from home. When one spends so much time away, they start to miss the joy which can only be found in the immersion of one's own language. There is a feeling of exile, even as one pursue's a course of action to better the lives of those left safely behind. Instead of celebrating those events leading to the creation of a people's shared history, their service instead compels them to suffer withdrawal from the loss of culture and communal ties. These things make an entity who it is."
"Fahaz, I applaud your devout dedication to your Lord. The honor you bare comes at a very steep price. I do not believe many realize the immensity of the burden you carry. Fewer still would be up to the sacrifice that such glory requires."
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The Professor smooths his bathrobe and draws it slightly more closed than he would during typical adventures .
The Professor works seamlessly to mirror Kivuli's adoption of the efreeti's speech, switching seamlessly between Common and Ignan as he does.
"Ah, such a welcome host. Nothing like what we've encountered so far on Aucturn's Tear. To be truthful, I'm ever fond of fire. In fact, I'd certainly the best of all of the elements, so it's not surprising to me that wherever it's denizens have set up that we'd fine such an agreeable host... that's the problem these days with all these younger races, always so quick to do things, never taking time to do them properly... Pah!"
Fahaz clasps a cinnabar hand to his heart as he nods his head towards the barbarian. ”Your words, your voice, are moving Pathfinder. It is a sound to heat the soul.” The efreeti bows his head. ”To have unexpected guests is a pleasant surprise on its own. But see how alike we are in affinity, not only in burning passion but in knowing the ever uncertain paths one is called to walk and the duties that take one far from their lands? Why, this is becoming the most diverting day in an age!”
The efreeti seems quite pleased by your company, and while his smile still grows mildly thinner when his gaze passes by Keriassa, the malik sits back with a smile. ”So, you are one of several bands of your guild to arrive on Aucturn’s Tear today, yes? What exactly is it that you explorerers hope to accomplish? To stake claim on discovering a new horizon you find to be ‘odd’? Or is there another end to your efforts?”
Fahaz leans comfortably in his chair as he asks you about the Society and its mission and activities.
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"I sense I may have offended you in some way, Master Fahaz, and I assure you that was not my intention. Please forgive my naivete with any of your customs. As to our objectives, they are most assuredly not conquest. Quite the contrary, we have been brought here with a duty for exploration (as you have cannily ascertained) and perhaps even compassion as our organization did discern a vague plea for help from Aucturn's Tear. Is that anything you are familiar with?"
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"Ah yes, why we are here.."
The Professor folks his hands and looks expectantly to the others, most notably Keriassa.
"You see, we suspect there's something, some being trapped here and that compels us to investigate, for our Society cannot resist such a tease."
The Professor nudges Keriassa ahead, certain the woman is Fahaz's "type".
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"As we have said, we noticed strange behavior of this rock from our world, and as it passed by us we decided to explore it to discover the reason for this behavior."
Still oblivious to the Malik's intentions, Crios blathers on...
"We first noticed that Aucturn's Tear was moving unlike other comets that passed by us, as its rotation was off. We believed this was likely because it was venting air instead of ice crystals and water vapor. Since that also seemed to be creating an atmosphere, we decided to explore. What did we hope to find? Why you of course, or someone like you, and your reasons for being here." Crios says simply.
It seems that there is a convergence of elemental forces present upon and within this comet. The question is, are they working together to keep the being deep inside imprisoned and why?
-Posted with Wayfinder
The effeeeti's eyes flash for a moment and his lips tighten as the Keriassa describes a vague call for 'help'. When the professor cuts in with "some being trapp..." the genie interjects abruptly with a sweeping arm.
"Ah, so yours is a generous band of adventurers, to be so moved by such a vague stray thought of a hypothetical 'other'. I assure you however, that our illustrious Queen and many of her compatriots have made fair purchase onto this stone for the time being. Were any such possible presence on Aucturn’s Tear, it is beyond the realm of the possible that the far-seeing Ymeri and her kin would be unaware. And she in turn would doubtlessly have not let he lie he's ignorant as they perform their roles..”
Turning quickly to Crios, Fahaz expounds, ”As for the asteroid’s level stasis, that is a mystery that it would be my gift to reveal to you detectives. Across this rock, some of the Brackish Emperor’s chosen men chafed against their role. Feckless aquans with no sense of honor! To punish such impertinence, the Fossil King Ayrzul locked the sphere in place, leaving the treacherous puddles to freeze turned from the sun for their impertinence!” The efreeti smiles again. ”Duty is its own reward of course. But though I doubt the intent entered His head it is a pleasing twist of fate that such a ‘punishment’ would let us loyal and true servants to bask in the fullness of the sun.”
Fahaz sits back and motions for you to proceed. You notice however that while he expanded on Crios’ comments about the asteroid’s rotation, he markedly did not bring up the strange presence of air.
The efreeti sips quietly of an icy blue liquid as Blanmieux speaks. He toasts the Kellid. "A curious mindset. I confess it puzzles me why one would turn away aid purely irrespective of its effect only because of its source. Power is not a thing to be treated lightly after all." Fahaz looks off above you, musing out loud. [b"Still, those people show wisdom on the perils of meddling. A change in scenery or a new venture is one thing, but some status quos are too important to be touched. Balance is a fine thing, is it not?Beings of a different order poking outside their domain - be it Great manipulating the small or even the reverse - so often tend to break their new toys. And make strong enemies in the doing."[/b]
The mood of the room has clearly dimmed as Fahaz trails off. Ever the host however, he takes note of your suddenly reserved expressions and claps twice. "Bah! Enough philosophizing! Here," He barks out an order in Ignan over his shoulder, and a flock of mephits shortly fly forth with bowls filled with a yellow-green liquid. Remarkably, the dishes are cool to the touch, and crushed ice flakes are mixed into the course.
"Far from an easy feat to obtain such a dessert given the circumstances," the genie says as you are served. "But luxuries have little use if not to be used when the occasion presents itself. Would you not agree?"
"So! I know mortals such as you are always in a hurry, flitting about like gadflies before your time is spent. And our temporary home is ever moving through the sky, further and further from your permanent one I suspect. If you must depart to continue your explorations Pathfinders, know that I would understand. On the other side of of Aucturn's Tear Kelizandri's little pets are crowded around a city from those Iovans who used to have a home on this plane. Adventurers tend to enjoy exploring cities, do you not? Of course there's also Ayrzul's little crater, but I expect you will find his minions less personable than I. Watch the dragons in particular."
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The Professor makes himself almost too comfortable in Fahaz's retreat, that he almost lulls himself to a quick afternoon nap, the heat such as it is.
"Zz.. oh my, it is so comfortable here! I was almost tempted to continue relaxing while our colleagues do the hard work of exploring.."
As the Professor trails off, nodding his head and looking for agreement that such an idea is actually a good one, he catches the disapproving looks from a few of his current team.
"Ah, but that would be setting a bad example, very well.."
Standing upright (a process which takes a good minute), the Professor smooths his robe and considers an appropriate inquiry.
"I don't suppose there's some token of favor of yours we could carry, my dear Lord Fahaz? That would carry your favor with your allies, and strike heart into the foes of fire-friends throughout the Tear?"
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"As you have eloquently stated, our simple task awaits us, and we must bid you farewell. We wish to journey forth -- deeper into this rock to seek out our meager destinies. We can only beckon you to grant us passage."
"You have already given us far more than we have given you. Such is the mark of a great leader. May our paths cross again someday, under less hurried conditions."
The efreet raises a massive hand to his chin. "You wish to explore my humble region of this rock further? Well, that is certainly a request. You mortals do not mince your words; I wonder, is it your short lifespans that cause you to be so...direct?"
Fahaz falls silent as he stares up towards the feast hall's ceiling. The fiery courtiers that ring to room shift restlessly as the malik's pause stretches out. then, with no warning, the genie slams one fist down on the table, a thin smile on his face as he says: "Very well! Our conversation ahs certainly proved enlightening, and such diversions and news would be only fairly repaid by a gift in kind. You have my blessing to move further within the near reaches of the Inferno Queen's domain little Pathfinders. I will recall those trrops of mine so stationed for a time. I would advise however that you beware the magma worms that still travel this region. They are sull-witted beasts, as easy to trick and manipulate as a common animal, but very ferocious when riled."
"As for a token of favor," he says quietly while extending one hand. As Fahaz opens his palm towards you, shimmering golds sparks of magic jump between his outstretched fingers. "I suppose a spark of my magic would suffice? Speak your desires Pathfinders - do you you dream of power and wealth to defend yourselves against the hazards ahead? Or that your wrath strikes your enemies down before they may even begin to give you pause?"
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The Professor waves a hand dismissively at the wish to strike down enemies.
"So eager to strike a blow to unseen enemies afoot!"
The Professor holds up a hand to his face as he turns to Fahaz.
"In truth, we could most certainly use any help to protect us against the unknown dangers of the asteroid. There's no telling who might slip into a river of lava, or trigger a disintegration trap."
The Professor eyes a couple of his less cautious allies.
While the Professor lightly scoffs at the notion, Fahaz looks attentively at Crios as the aasimar makes his wish known. "But of course. For your mortal shells must be already being taxed enough by this rock's harsh terrain. And yet you nobly persist. Therefore, May Your Might Be Proven And Known To All As The Scores of Creatures Set Before You Will Earn My Wrath!"
The efreeti's eyes glow as he shapes his wish.
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The Professor arches an eyebrow as both Blanmieux and Keriassa call out Fahaz on the specific wording of his granted "wish". He realizes a bit too late that they did, in fact, place a wish with an efreet, which may have consequences of its own.
Nonetheless, he keeps quiet for the moment, believing whatever is to come is not beyond their capabilities.
You see Fahaz's eyes flare. But only for a moment. Soon enough the genie's face twists into an expression of concern. "But of course. My clumsy tongue can go on and on; I sometimes forget the value of brevity. May The Enemies You Are Soon To Face Find Thenselves Disadvanataged Against You And Your Band. That should be more to your liking, yes?"
As the magic is cast, Fahaz sits once more while his servants clear the remains of the meal away. "There, it is done. And so there are no heavy hearts or harbors grusges over a misconstrued word, allow me one more gift, to show my esteem. Several of the FOSSIL kinng's lackeys trespassed beyond their bounds some weeks passed. While my patrols diverted them back the their place," the efreet's grin leaves implies this 'redirection' was likely a forceful one, "it was reported to me that the rock folk and their cult were speaking of strange topics as they were...approached. Riddles and numbers and puzzles. I found it odd, but recorded the gibberish nonetheless. Perhaps you can make some sense of it - if nothing else reading their attempts at being 'clever' should amuse you as it did me."
An ifrit hands off a piece of (fireproofed) parchment to you. True to Fajaz's claim, it the transcription appears to be a hodgepodge of riddles, logic puzzles, seemingly random facts and figures, and incomplete arcane formulas. You cannot quite determine what any of it means.
“We’ve discovered a path to the Vault Entrance!” Sorrina Westyr’s image appears drenched but defiant, in the midst of pouring heavy rain. Ignoring the water sleeting off her, the Master of Spells points with her wand as she illuminates the asteroid map behind her. “Reports from those traveling through the Ice Reservoir indicate that most of the enemies in that region have been mopped up, though a few scattered groups may still be dealing with ongoing fights.” She taps the map. “We’ve discovered an entrance to the Vault through this area. If you’re nearby, proceed here as fast as you can!”
Then a serious expression crosses her face. “Our efforts have not gone without notice. My divinations indicate that Kelizandri, the Brackish Emperor himself, is displeased and wreaking havoc. Beware of flash floods and rain! Take care, Pathfinders!”
As Sorrina's image vanishes from where it appeared in the center of the feast hall, Fahaz and the other fire elementals and courtiers' curoisty at the sudden intrusion turns to shrieks and chaos as damp clouds begin to form within the chamber. A light rain starts to erupt, causing panic as much of the court flees for cover.
your host's face sizzles as rain drops splash down on him. "So whatever you are doing is infuriating Kelizandri," the efreet says in slow, measured tones. His expression is growing darker by the moment. "My blessing has been granted; it shall not be revoked. But now would be a good time to make use of such leave, Pathfinders. And I would hope for the sake of your band you do nothing to similarly inconvenience certain other extraplanar rulers."
With the Master of Spell's unfortunately timed announcement, you suspect it may be time to continue on. Quickly.
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The rainfall is still continuing as oyur hurry out of the palace and back into its molten gardens: whatever sorcery the Elemental demigod is using to voice his displeasure has caused rainfall to occur even deep underground. It dissipates before long, however the dampness that lingers makes your journey oppressively humid as you delve into the tunnels ahead.
You continue on, spending some getting your bearings and trying to strike a trail. Wind rushes up from the many twisting tunnels carving through the area, but offers no clear indication of the true path forward. The sheer deviousness of each dead end and false path could never have arisen naturally. The six of you try to keep your spirits up, but the labyrinthine mess of turns ahead of you threatens to become maddening.
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Crios thinks he may have found something to help based on certain aspects of the tunnels' construction. He just needs confirmation from the others.
-Posted with Wayfinder
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The rogue makes certain he stays near the front, confident in his ability to spot any danger that arises. He relies in his training to help guide the others through the seemingly endless tunnels.
-Posted with Wayfinder
With Jade and Kivuli at the forefront, your party makes consistent progress as you move through the maze of pathways. Fahaz seems to have been good as his word so far, as the tunnels are bare of any patrols of elementals or guards - or signs of any other life around. Looking at the rocky walls around you as you go, the wayang notes the slight curvature to each tunnel as the rock seems to have been melted perfectly into its current shape. Likely the magama worms your host described bored these trails in the rock, though from the way they twist and turn in difficult ways Jade suspects that many of the branches were likely made under a more intelligent being's direction.
Kivuli continues to move confidently as he leads you through the tunnels, delving ever deeper into the asteroid and towards the 'Vault' that Sorrina mentioned was recently discovered.
Just as Blanmieux speaks up about the change in the wall however, the Kellid's comment causes you to break out of your silent trudging. More alert, each of you hear a rumbling noise echoing throughout the nearby area, though you the walls and rocks around you do not seem to be shaking. The sound is growing louder - fast!