Patenemheb does his best to conceal his surprise - or any other reaction - to the apparent lack of camels, personages, and equipment.
He gazes around, seeking clues to this mystery.
Bjoerns looks at the beautiful tended place and then down at his travel stained clothing. "We should bath first!"
Sefu turns a glance toward Bjeorn. He says nothing, but offers him a look that could almost be seen as sheepish.
Arriving, Red exclaims "What the..."
[dice= Perception] 1d20 +9
[dice= Sense Motive on Sefu] 1d20 +7
Sefu is being quite sincere ; also, the place has a look that makes you believe it has not been lived in for some time.
"Kind Sefu, is there a place we can retire to and perhaps bathe or at the very least wash the grime from our faces and change our clothes? It would not do for us to walk these beautiful grounds or speak to the lord of this place without making ourselves presentable. Our clothes will require laundering as well, if it is not too much to ask."
Sefu turns and looks steadily at Tairin, the sheepishness now turning to outright embarassement, which is not characteristic of Sefu and his usual abrupt and somewhat transparent demeanor.
Realizing the barrage of questions, Sefu instantly reverts to his more formal and "businesslike" attitude and responds to your company formally.
"Our company arrived roughly an hour ago while you were at market. Once we arrived we discovered that this home - and its resident, whom my master knew - were empty."
"My master, eager for news of his host, and confident that our host was merely closeted with some errand somewhere in the city, elected to take his and my lady's camel, and my own horse, to the stables on this property and give them quarter."
"He then attempted to prevail upon the few minor nobles or priests, or whatever they were, to stay at this house with my master."
He clears his throat and then continues.
"They elected not to remain..." he says, and you suspect there may be reasoning behind that the Sefu is guessing about, but nothing he can say for sure - but he continues "my master, hoping to... hoping to continue a show of good will with the city," he adds, clearly feeling that my master wanted to use their presence to demonstrate his own power and tried to 'show them off' to various local important people just didn't sound quite right "has returned to their temple with them, as well as my mistress."
"However, I have been instructed to tell you that I am to first pay for your fee for your journey at this time. Further, as it seems that my master has elected to remain in the house until the host returns, I am also instructed to ask if you would also wish to remain as guests; though you would formally act as house guards for my master and my lady," he adds.
He pauses a moment and then pulls out a pouch.
"Your contract price was two gold a day; and we traveled for twenty-six days together. Thus you will all receive fifty-two gold pieces," he adds and counts them out - handing the sum to Tairin, Bjeorn, Red, Ala and Samir.
He does not have any coin to offer Caslav as Caslav is no longer with the party, but was traveling with Yetara and Daniya and it seems has left with them on some errand.
Sefu turns to Paten.
"You have also aided us; though you joined somewhat late and have only traveled with us for a total of twenty-one days," he says, then hands Paten a sum of forty-two gold pieces.
He clears his throat after the exchange of money.
"If you would wish to stay my master feels confident that it would be worth your while."
"He can pay you all five gold a day, plus food and shelter; and a sum of an additional fifty gold as a signing bonus," he adds, glancing at the company to see if they will agree.
Perception of grounds - anything noteworthy or out of place: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20
Sense Motive to discern Sefu's reaction and response to Samir's question: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14
The place, while well tended, clearly has some subtle, yet tell-tale signs indicating that it has been empty for at least a week, possibly more. The well-cultivated gardens have just enough growth overflowing the edges of the shrubs to look as if they could have used some pruning at some point. There are places where obsidian stones are laid like step-stones leading through white gravel in a lovely and ornate walking path through a rock garden; yet much of the obsidian has dust or a fine layer of sand on it; enough to make you believe that it has not been tended to in some time.
Sefu is indeed being sincere at his response; at the least, he shows you no guile and while he may not be sharing everything going on, you suspect he is not intentionally hiding anything.
Patenemheb does his best to conceal his surprise - or any other reaction - to the apparent lack of camels, personages, and equipment.
He gazes around, seeking clues to this mystery.
Perception to see signs of recent movement of people, animals, and/or equipment = 1d20 + 13 = 24
Survival to spot tracks of camels = 1d20 + 8 = 26
Sense Motive to assess Sefu's sincerity = 1d20 + 11 = 27
You can see signs of a large group of camels, but they have left the premises rather recently; you suspect this was the recently released slaves on their camels. However, it's clear that Sefu is being honest as their are tracks for a few camels and a horse leading to a section of buildings that you would wager are stables.
You believe Sefu is being utterly sincere, though its clear he feels that some topics that may embarrass or shame his master are hard to discuss easily.
"If you wish to stay I shall help bring your goods to the rooms he has instructed me to bring them. Then, once your gear has been settled, you shall then have the freedom to move about the house and grounds."
"My master should return ere nightfall to enjoy an evening meal with you and discuss plans for what you shall do next."
"This assumes, of course, that you are willing to stay on as House Guards for a short while," he adds.
Samir looks at the others, most notably Tairin, then looks back at Sefu.
"We have coin in our pouches now and a fine city to explore. Further, we have just done well for ourselves in the market and you think that a signing bonus of a mere fifty coin is worth it to us?" he asks somewhat contemptuously, his eyes flicking to the obvious wealth of the house before turning to look back on Sefu.
"I think you shall have to do better than that if we would stay with you," he adds with an obvious sneer at Sefu's offer.
Farrokh winces at this bald statement but Sefu's face is impassive.
"Do you all feel as this one does," he says with a nod to Samir "or will you be comfortable with my offer?" he asks you all.
"Thanks you Sefu."says Red as she takes her payment from Sefu.
Red nods in agreement as Samir expresses his view that the signing bonus is inadequate, then adds after a moments thought "A signing bonus for guards points to the need for armed muscle in the near future. That means combat and possible deaths.... Could we have a few moments to discuss Yetara's offer among ourselves Sefu?"
Red then gathers her companions for a quiet talk, adding "Anyone have any idea what Yetara is up to or wants? My guess is he expects trouble or just wants a group of retainers around to make him look important. Despite what I said, 50 gold plus 5 a day seems excellent even if I have to act subservient. Not if it involves getting killed however."
Patenemheb nods slightly when Sefu replies to him and hands over gold.
"My thanks, Sefu. Has Farrokh garnered any coin for his part in securing the safety of the caravan?"
I will ensure Farrokh is compensated one way or another, but that is not the matter in question here.
********************************
After Sefu, Samir and Red have spoken, he speaks again.
"I too wonder at the risk displayed here. You are uncomfortable about some matter, and I cannot help but wonder if such is related to the clear need for talented protection. I also would ensure that Farrokh is also compensated, should a new contract is established. His sword arm is able, as you are well aware."
Farrokh would be a strong addition. But Yetara's purse, not mine, would be preferable to support him while possible.
********************************
During the quiet talk, Patenemheb replies softly to Red, taking care that his lips are unseen by Sefu should that be a possibility:
"There is the possibility of the matter we discussed on route. I suspect trouble, since Yetara seems loathe to part with gold without good reason. Note that Farrokh was not hired by him. I am reasonably confident that we can endure or escape many threats. And there is also the mystery of Zheng-Ya. I would know what his intentions are, and that would be easier done within these walls."
Patenemheb nods slightly when Sefu replies to him and hands over gold.
"My thanks, Sefu. Has Farrokh garnered any coin for his part in securing the safety of the caravan?"
Sefu again looks uncomfortable.
"Were it my will in such matters, I should say "aye" - yet this is not my decision, but my lord's. For now he did not formally contract your man Farrokh; thus, he feels no desire to compensate him."
"I too wonder at the risk displayed here. You are uncomfortable about some matter, and I cannot help but wonder if such is related to the clear need for talented protection. I also would ensure that Farrokh is also compensated, should a new contract is established. His sword arm is able, as you are well aware."
"I deem he would be agreeable to hiring him on this day as he is short of trustworthy folk," he adds, hoping that this answer may seem reasonable when it comes to paying Farrokh if he would serve with them.
"As for my feelings on this matter? I will not deceive you, my mind has been troubled since we dealt with the issues on the trail with that dark djinn... there have been too many foul coincidences since we have journeyed together."
He glances around the grounds of the estate and his eyes narrow.
"We are to take residence in this home until the host returns - yet there are no servants, cooks, gardeners... who attends to such details and why have we not seen them?"
He shakes his head and then his gaze returns to your company and he shrugs.
"For now my lord needs your aid; will you enlist with him while you remain in this city?" he asks you all again.
Red nods in agreement as Samir expresses his view that the signing bonus is inadequate, then adds after a moments thought "A signing bonus for guards points to the need for armed muscle in the near future. That means combat and possible deaths.... Could we have a few moments to discuss Yetara's offer among ourselves Sefu?"
Sefu's eyes flick from Samir to Red.
"But of course," he says politely.
Red then gathers her companions for a quiet talk, adding "Anyone have any idea what Yetara is up to or wants? My guess is he expects trouble or just wants a group of retainers around to make him look important. Despite what I said, 50 gold plus 5 a day seems excellent even if I have to act subservient. Not if it involves getting killed however."
Samir's eyes widen at this.
"Perhaps it may have been while we were in Susrah, but do you not see the opulence of this home? Fine gardens; well-made statues and a host of other signs of wealth... I say we may be able to bargain with him..." he adds, then shrugs, clearly willing to let the party decide.
During the quiet talk, Patenemheb replies softly to Red, taking care that his lips are unseen by Sefu should that be a possibility:
"There is the possibility of the matter we discussed on route. I suspect trouble, since Yetara seems loathe to part with gold without good reason. Note that Farrokh was not hired by him. I am reasonably confident that we can endure or escape many threats. And there is also the mystery of Zheng-Ya. I would know what his intentions are, and that would be easier done within these walls."
Samir nods thoughtfully and then turns to Tairin and Bjeorn.
"And what of you? What do you think on these matters?" he asks them.
Taking his gold Bjoern bites on them to see if the metal is good. He then puts it away and looks at the others.
"Do we buy the wife before having looked at her? Do we enter a feud here?"
He shrugs and adds."I wanted some wine and good food. Guarding means no wine!"
Sefu again looks uncomfortable.
"Were it my will in such matters, I should say "aye" - yet this is not my decision, but my lord's. For now he did not formally contract your man Farrokh; thus, he feels no desire to compensate him."
"I deem he would be agreeable to hiring him on this day as he is short of trustworthy folk," he adds, hoping that this answer may seem reasonable when it comes to paying Farrokh if he would serve with them.
"Understandable. And it is acceptable that Farrokh can now join as a hire."
Pateneheb understands that Farrokh will surely not refuse.
"As for my feelings on this matter? I will not deceive you, my mind has been troubled since we dealt with the issues on the trail with that dark djinn... there have been too many foul coincidences since we have journeyed together."
He glances around the grounds of the estate and his eyes narrow.
"We are to take residence in this home until the host returns - yet there are no servants, cooks, gardeners... who attends to such details and why have we not seen them?"
"This is indeed a mystery. Have you seen any evidence of passing staff, or where they may reside?"
He shakes his head and then his gaze returns to your company and he shrugs.
"For now my lord needs your aid; will you enlist with him while you remain in this city?" he asks you all again.
Sefu's eyes flick from Samir to Red.
"But of course," he says politely.
"We shall confer and you shall have your answer in short order.", Pateneheb assures Sefu.
Samir's eyes widen at this.
"Perhaps it may have been while we were in Susrah, but do you not see the opulence of this home? Fine gardens; well-made statues and a host of other signs of wealth... I say we may be able to bargain with him..." he adds, then shrugs, clearly willing to let the party decide.
Samir nods thoughtfully and then turns to Tairin and Bjoern.
"And what of you? What do you think on these matters?" he asks them.
"I am not averse to fine accomodation after that journey through the desert.", says Pateneheb, recalling how exhausted he had felt in the desert heat. "There is certainly room to bargain with him."
Taking his gold Bjoern bites on them to see if the metal is good. He then puts it away and looks at the others.
"Do we buy the wife before having looked at her? Do we enter a feud here?"
He shrugs and adds."I wanted some wine and good food. Guarding means no wine!"
Hearing out the Tharagian, Pateneheb softly replies.
"Bjoern, if guarding we would have access to the resources of this manse. If wining is a concern, then we can organise shifts, ensure that some of us remain sober and awake at all times."
"Make no mistake, Yot-Kammoth weaves webs of all kinds - and all of them are deadly," he says grimly. Wiping his face on his sleeve, he raises a haunted visage to the campfire. "I have remained silent because I wished to be rid of our employers at the earliest opportunity, and thought the man's sleep-speech would only inspire more curiosity in them. But if Daniya is to be given to the favorite god of Lamra as you surmise, then we must not allow it.
"Not if we are to ever again lay claim to any kind of decency."
The words of Caslav echo in mind, and the scholar continues.
"And there is the fate of Daniya. If we wash our hands of this matter, then Daniya will be left to the machinations of Yetara, a servant of Yot-Kammoth whose character we have seen something of, and little of that wholesome. Is that something that we wish to do?", Pateneheb leaves the question hanging in a rhetorical tone.
Tairin's eyes scrutinised the estate a little closer as Sefu advised them of the absence of its Eastern master and all his household.
"I would say the people of this estate have been gone at least a week, perhaps a little longer, from the appearance of the overgrowth and dust." Tairin then went silent and she ruminated on the situation and offer before them.
As Sefu handed out the coin for their efforts as Yetara's caravan guard, she accepted her share politely and placed the coin securely in her pouch. The man's next words related to the fee they would be paid to stay on as House Guards to Yetara in the temporarily abandoned estate.
When Red gestured for the party to pull away and converse privately, Tairin followed, although she was still desiring a bath, and listened as her companions related their concerns and needs. She noted Samir had deferred to her at least twice on the matter and she had yet to answer him; not because she was being difficult or dismissive; no, she had to think a little longer. Then in a voice as low and discreet as she should make it, she said to her companions, "We must protect Daniya. There is something sinister, here, and we must find out what and be ready to act. Best we be at an advantage rather than counteract to our detriment."
Looking away from her companions for the moment and back to Sefu, "Good Sefu, I would like to counter and say that we will take on the position as House Guards for a week. This gives opportunity for the master of this place to return with his household and provides your lord Yetara with protection over the course of the absence of his friend and colleague. Once the week is up, we will reevaluate and then determine if we will continue on guarding Yetara. You have said there are no cooks, gardeners or servants at present. I would ask that you employ a cook and a servant from the local folk for the week. The extra coin you may have paid us can go to them to take care of us while we all wait, here. Our company will not be servants to Yetara and Daniya in this place. That is not our position. We are to guard them and that we will do. Is this acceptable?"
Taking his gold Bjoern bites on them to see if the metal is good. He then puts it away and looks at the others.
"Do we buy the wife before having looked at her? Do we enter a feud here?"
He shrugs and adds."I wanted some wine and good food. Guarding means no wine!"
Samir looks at Bjeorn for a moment, clearly unsure how to proceed. His eyes flick to the others but he says nothing.
For now Paten seems more intrigued about the property itself and the absence of folk.
"This is indeed a mystery. Have you seen any evidence of passing staff, or where they may reside?"
Sefu seems to have no issue hiding any details from you all, and he is clearly being open.
"The servants are likely sheltered in those small buildings by the stables; as I understand it, this is where you are to be housed if you remain with us," he says with a gesture toward some well-tended, albeit simple looking wooden rooms near the stables.
"Yet I wonder if the servants elected to leave after their master left the premises. If so, this might suggest that master is gone for some time - but I am not certain."
"For myself, I have wandered the grounds of the house for a short while, but I did not desire to go in to rooms that seemed more private or anything which was locked. Thus, I did not stray far."
He looks at you guilelessly.
"Though, assuredly, I doubt if my master would be displeased by anyone who might discover more details, even if they are with unorthodox methods..." he adds.
"We shall confer and you shall have your answer in short order."[/b], Pateneheb assures Sefu.
"Of course," and he turns and lets you consider options.
Looking away from her companions for the moment and back to Sefu, "Good Sefu, I would like to counter and say that we will take on the position as House Guards for a week. This gives opportunity for the master of this place to return with his household and provides your lord Yetara with protection over the course of the absence of his friend and colleague. Once the week is up, we will reevaluate and then determine if we will continue on guarding Yetara. You have said there are no cooks, gardeners or servants at present. I would ask that you employ a cook and a servant from the local folk for the week. The extra coin you may have paid us can go to them to take care of us while we all wait, here. Our company will not be servants to Yetara and Daniya in this place. That is not our position. We are to guard them and that we will do. Is this acceptable?"
Sefu glances at the company again.
"Done!" he says somewhat formally concluding the arrangement.
"You shall be paid fifty gold now, and twenty-five at the end of the week with the chance to negotiate further," he says, clearly pleased at the negotiations.
"As for the need of a cook and servants? From what I am to understand my master is even now attempting to secure such folk. He shall arrive shortly - while that is occurring I should add that there is no bathhouse here, per se - though there is a well."
"From what I can tell, such wells are rare in this city; most of the houses being supplied by drains and causeways from aqueducts as well as water delivery."
"If you wish to explore the grounds that may be wise; you should know the home you are to guard."
"Yet my master is not likely to be back for a while yet; if you wish to store your things and search the city this is not a problem, though to maintain your contract I would prefer if you returned here by nightfall to protect the home, or at least - to offer a demonstration of such protection from those who are observing my master," he adds with a courteous bow.
"...I should add that there is no bathhouse here, per se - though there is a well. From what I can tell, such wells are rare in this city; most of the houses being supplied by drains and causeways from aqueducts as well as water delivery. If you wish to explore the grounds that may be wise; you should know the home you are to guard."
Tairin accepted the fifty gold coins on behalf of the party; with thoughts of dividing it evenly once Sefu was away from their presence.
She almost sighed aloud upon hearing the estate had no bathhouse within its lands. Looking to Bjoern, she added, "Bear, I will need you to draw water from the well - enough to bathe the dust and grime from my body. I shall remove these travel-stained clothes and wash them after I am done. Then I will explore the estate - It would not do to remain so ill-presented. On the morrow, we will locate a reputable bath house in the city for future benefit."
Looking back at Sefu, Tairin added, "Please show us to our chambers now," readying herself to move there and have Bjoern find buckets with which to draw the water.
Tairin accepted the fifty gold coins on behalf of the party; with thoughts of dividing it evenly once Sefu was away from their presence.
Looking back at Sefu, Tairin added, "Please show us to our chambers now," readying herself to move there and have Bjoern find buckets with which to draw the water.
Sefu nods his head and takes you to the small room or building near to the stables.
It is a wooden building, raised off the ground so that beneath you can see a small expanse of white stones underneath. It occurs to you that this style of building may be very useful to keep the floors away from the damaging effects of water - specifically in a land drenched by frequent rains - in this land it is merely a decorative style only.
This naturally bespeaks a level of wealth and power; that the designer of even the servant quarters would invest so much wealth into the aesthetic of the atmosphere.
Sefu leads you to the lattice style door to the room and opens it.
Inside you find a bare room with thick, heavy mats laid end to end so that the room itself is nearly "carpeted" by the mats.
The floor itself is comfortable enough to lay down on without need of much bedding, and this is fortunate, as there are no beds within, merely a small, low table, several rolled bundles of mats which might be unfurled into extra bedding, and at the opposite side of the room there are small shelves to store gear in. Finally you see several folded screens which could - theoretically - be opened and moved so you they could be set up around the room to give those insides more privacy.
Clearly the owner of this house elected to spend their wealth on the style of building rather than the furnishing.
"This room is, I believe, used to house those folk who are either servants or bodyguards. In any case, these are the quarters you have been assigned to," he adds and gestures to the interior which should comfortably house eight.
He bows at you and then exits this chamber.
Bjoern looks at the house and nods to Tairin.
"Maylady I will do so, and gladly." Moving for a moment he stops and looks at the sun.
"Still some time till our duty begins. Could we not explore the city first?"
Looking sheepishly he adds: "Maybe we find a place where we all could bath, and get some special supplies and try the local food. Fresh food does indeed sound good!"
Patenemeheb has no dispute with Tairin's plan or counter-offer.
Once they are out of earshot of Farrokh, Patenemheb will turn to Farrokh and speaks to him quietly in Zadjite:
"With fifty gold and the resources of this manse, I trust that your immediate needs are in order? I would not see you go without if it is at all possible to avoid it. Be watchful for danger, as always."
As he walks, Patenemheb spends attention soaking in the details of the architecture and the interior design of the manse.
"Yes, sustenance and bathing sound very good indeed. Though I like not the flavour of quiet in this manse. It is perturbing."
Tairin's look was one of exasperation. "Bear, we just returned from town. Why would we turn right back around and venture back to the city when I could wash here and possibly lie down and rest, among other things? There is water enough from the well for all to wash, not just myself. If you want to walk back to the market, then you may do so, as can any of the others. I will stay here, bathe and wash my own clothes. There will be time for me to find a proper bathhouse on the morrow."
"Yes, sustenance and bathing sound very good indeed. Though I like not the flavour of quiet in this manse. It is perturbing."
At the remark, Tairin turned and lowering her voice for discretion's sake, responded, "It is quiet. Perchance we will have time to search the grounds more keenly and determine why it is so before Yetara and his retinue return this evening."
Then looking back to the small band of companions she added with a sense of curiosity, "Are not any of you tired after such a long journey to this place? You appear eager to wander all about the city this very day when we have at least a week's stay in Zul-Bazzir. Either way, I have no issue with remaining at the manor while the rest of you return to the market place, if that is your wish."
Looking sheepishly he adds: "Maybe we find a place where we all could bath, and get some special supplies and try the local food. Fresh food does indeed sound good!"
Samir says nothing, but looks eagerly at Bjeorn and seems to be pleased at the request.
Farrokh's face is impassive, but he strokes his beard thoughtfully, as if considering things and waiting for a cue from his master.
Once they are out of earshot of Farrokh, Patenemheb will turn to Farrokh and speaks to him quietly in Zadjite.
"This money is good enough, lord; if you wish to remain here, I will not contest it, yet there are strange tales and rumors of this home in the cities. For myself, I recall little of them, as I have had no interest in this place; yet there are folk in the city proper who would surely know more of this place were we to ask them."
As he walks, Patenemheb spends attention soaking in the details of the architecture and the interior design of the manse.
Everything you see makes you believe the man who lives here modeled his architecture off of the lands of Taikang. The style of the buildings; the gardens, the woodwork - you feel as if you were in a home designed by one of those far easterners.
As for traps? At this time you cannot see any; yet you are still in the garden proper. You would wager that if traps existed they would like be near something of note or value.
"Yes, sustenance and bathing sound very good indeed. Though I like not the flavour of quiet in this manse. It is perturbing."
Samir says nothing but rolls his eyes at the mention of such superstition, clearly bored with being alone in an empty house waiting for Yetara to return and regale them with whatever tales he feels which would grandiose his position.
Still, he says nothing and waits.
At the remark, Tairin turned and lowering her voice for discretion's sake, responded, "It is quiet. Perchance we will have time to search the grounds more keenly and determine why it is so before Yetara and his retinue return this evening."
At these words Samir's eyes widen and he suddenly looks at the house with a renewed sense of interest, as if contemplating the worth of those things which could be carried away or sold.
Farrokh nods slowly at this, and he speaks to Paten.
"This may be wise, lord," he says, not bothering to disguise his voice, confident that Sefu cannot hear them.
"We yet have baggage that is potentially very rare; to leave it unattended could invite similar queries from this Yetara fellow, should he return. It may be advisable to find a place to store the goods discretely within his property. After all, we do not want to allow them to be noticed until we have a ready buyer, and it is likely that if he does try to search our goods clandestinely he would at least search the rooms he has decided to quarter us in," he adds.
Samir says nothing, but he considers Farrokh and his gaze narrows as if studying the man in a different light; a suspicious glint in his eyes.
Then looking back to the small band of companions she added with a sense of curiosity, "Are not any of you tired after such a long journey to this place? You appear eager to wander all about the city this very day when we have at least a week's stay in Zul-Bazzir. Either way, I have no issue with remaining at the manor while the rest of you return to the market place, if that is your wish."
Samir grunts.
"For myself, I am not so tired that I would find sleeping in a bare room on mats to be a wise or useful course," he says.
"But I like rather my sayida's suggestion; this Sefu fellow will be content to wait patiently his master. We are conscripted to guard this place - what better ruse can there be than for guards to fully examine the grounds that they are to guard?" he adds, seeming to change his mind about traveling the city.
However, it is clear that Samir assumes Tairin's plan is literally to "case the house" and search it for valuables to steal for their own profit. While this may not be Tairin's intention at all, Samir merely assumes it is and this may explain his sudden interest in remaining.
"And Paten's man is right," he adds, not mentioning Farrokh by name "we have gear that if we take with us would be unwise; yet if we leave it here it would be better to at least find a suitable place to hide it - lest Yetara, or more likely his minx of a daughter, returns and takes a fancy to searching our goods and gear," he adds, clearly alluding to his lack of trust in Yetara's daughter, virgin though she may be...
Patenemheb nods at Farrokh's comments and quietly says:
"That is sensible. Once we have refreshed ourselves somewhat and secured our belongings, at least some of us should go to gather word of this place. The others must be brought into the fold on this."
**************
Patenemheb hears out the others, then adds his words.
"I also concur on secreting and securing our belongings here before Yetaras's return. I would not put it past him to seek to have his servants inventory our goods."
"I must also warn ye, this is no mere noble manse. The architect is Taikangan, and every detail of this building that I have thus far implies that it is Taikangan in all ways. I fully expect that the true power and secrets of this place are in the style of the land: hidden within secret rooms, not exposed except to the closest of scrutiny. This would also be where I would expect to find the deadliest and most subtle of traps."
"That said, we need both external knowledge of this place, and personal searches. I am willing to remain here with those would secrete and search."
Tairin cast her eyes from Farrokh to Samir and finally to Paten, and spoke in discreet voice, "I concur. We find a suitable hiding place for our more prohibited items."
As Paten warned of the manse's unusual and dangerous design, Tairin nodded again, accepting his assessment. "Those of us with a sense of traps can be on the lookout for any deadly pitfalls within this place."
Looking to Bear, she simply and quietly added, "If you wish to leave now for the city markets, then you may go and I'll get my own buckets of water. I am going to wash now and then I am off to explore."
Bjoern moves diligently, getting water for Tairin, first water then wood to heat it so that Tairin can have her warm bath.
Putting down his armor and just arming himself with his blade he organises some wine and fruits, so that she has some refreshments.
Patenemheb says to Farrokh quietly in Sushrahnite:
"You may be better suited to finding word of this place, or aiding Bjoern in finding it. I will wash and begin the search here with Lady Tairin."
Then in a voice as low and discreet as she should make it, she said to her companions, "We must protect Daniya. There is something sinister, here, and we must find out what and be ready to act. Best we be at an advantage rather than counteract to our detriment."
"My own relations with Daniya have been... strange. But there is a mystery here and I would not see the girl meet some dark fate. I agree we should protect her."
When Bjoern goes to draw water, Red accompanies him and begins drawing water for her own use.
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Outer Wall and Garden
The outer wall is a 10 feet tall masonry wall (1 ft. thick; Hardness 8; hp 90; Break DC 35; Climb DC 15).
Facing the palm-lined main street to the north is a heavy wooden double door that can be barred from the inside (2 in. thick; Hardness 5; hp 20; Break DC 25). On the south side of the outer wall, facing nondescript residential houses, is a smaller door (but with the same statistics) that can be similarly barred.
2. Servants’ House - Your Current Quarters
This house is a simple one-room barrack. It contains very little in the way of furniture; Zheng-Ya’s servants slept on rolled tatamis and kept their belongings in small wooden boxes in the corners. Yetara places the PCs in this house if they stay on as his guards.
3. Stables
Each of these three small buildings can hold two horses or camels. The stables currently house Sefu’s warhorse and the camels of Yetara and Daniya.
There is room for three more mounts to be housed, as well as the feed for such beasts, if required.
4. Well
The well is 10 feet in diameter and 30 feet deep. The water comes from a natural well-spring that itself originates in the underwater springs that formed the oasis of Zul before the city was built. Private wells such as this are rare in the desert city; most houses are supplied by small aqueducts or by water carried from central wells.
5. Pagoda
Next to the main house is a small garden pavilion, built in imitation of the great towers of Taikang’s cities. It overlooks the garden and the courtyard in front of the mansion.
6. Courtyard and Dragon Statues
A broad, open space opens up in front of the mansion-house of Zheng-Ya. A broad stairway descends from the massive double doors.
The doors are flanked by a pair of crouching dragon-statues. Each statue weighs in excess of 1,000 lbs. and is carved from a curious, but non-precious, green stone.
The Courtyard also has a large rock garden which is punctuated with various small, potted trees as well as bushes.
The doors are currently open to the Entrance Hall.
7. Entrance Hall
The main doors open up into a grand entrance hall whose walls are hung with a handful of long, narrow silken tapestries inscribed with Eastern calligraphy.
To the left of the entrance stands a great metal gong, held suspended in ropes from a wooden rack. A padded hammer rests below the great disc. When struck with the hammer, the gong produces a loud, sonorous tone.
8. Meeting Room and Dining Hall
The Host of the house is likely to have received visitors here, in a large room dominated by an oval teak table. Eight regular chairs are placed around the table, while a ninth chair, furthest away from the door, is high-backed with armrests carved in the shape of lion claws.
There is a room to the side of the Meeting/Dining Hall that is covered by a silk curtain, behind which can be found a wooden door without a lock.
On the opposite side of the silk screen is a heavy set of double-doors made of teak with a solid lock.
11. Stairway
At the rear of the chamber you find a set of sliding doors with aout a lock. Sliding them apart reveals a stairway.
The stairway leads from the ground floor and down.
They also lead upwards.
Bjoern goes to the well, collects water and prepares for the bath.
Patenemheb will also go to the well. He will draw less water, requiring only a wash and not a full bath.
Bjoern goes to the well, collects water and prepares for the bath.
Samir notes Bjeorn gathering water to prepare a bath and his brows knit in baffled confusion, but he says nothing.
Patenemheb will also go to the well. He will draw less water, requiring only a wash and not a full bath.
As Paten also intends to gather water Samir's widen and he lets out an brief grunt and shakes his head.
Even Farrokh seems confused at this and moves to Paten.
"Lord; I understand that you desire to wash - but perhaps we have little time to attend to such duties without the observation of our employer?"
"Assuredly we have gear to hide and the grounds present a mystery? Shall we not seek to learn more before we come under scrutiny?" he persists.
At this Samir shakes his head.
"For myself, I shall not wait," he says in a somewhat loud voice, clearly loud enough that Farrokh can hear him.
Peering about the grounds thoughtfully, he stoops and grabs his goods and then slings his kit over his shoulder, not content to hide it yet as Sefu is still in the courtyard acting as a sort of door warden.
First Samir moves around the house and seems to be moving toward the rear gate.
It seems Samir is testing the security of the lock; can it be picked, and if so - how? How secure is it; and how safe? Then he studies the walls themselves and peers at them. You are not sure, but he seems to be looking for how smooth or rough they are; and how easy it is for a man to ascend them if the gate is shut. Eventually, he seems to have reached a conclusion.
Samir then comes back to the main courtyard and notes Sefu watching him curiously, but the Southron says nothing at this time, merely observing.
Samir glances at the others - his eyes resting on Tairin for a moment, then her little kitten who is nestled up in the cloth wrapped around her.
He notes that Red remains silent and shrugs.
Watching Sefu for a moment, he says nothing but ascends the stairs leading to the open doorway to the house and takes the steps two at a time and then vanishes into the main room and is quickly out of sight.
Farrokh watches him intently, and frowns as he watches Samir move inside the house and out of view.
However, as he is currently waiting on the orders of Paten, he does not follow but instead moves to study the dragon statues at the base of the stairs.
Farrokh leans back and his remaining eye is wide as he ponders what it is he observed, but does not interrupt the others in their ablutions and says nothing, but he turns his gaze to peer hard at the open doorways to the house.
Sefu no longer seems interested in the party and instead he moves to his horse and begins to brush its mane and tend to it, trying to make the beast comfortable.
Hearing the words of Farrokh and Samir, Tairin's dark brow lifted and her dark eyes grew darker yet. In a voice that was more serious and displeased than remotely playful, she spoke,
"We have been told that Yetara and his group would not return til end of day. It is still morning, so we have time for a quick bath, laundering or sponging before we go explore the grounds and the main estate building. It has been said by Farrokh himself that such Eastern-styled buildings and grounds can hold hidden pitfalls and traps, so why would you wander off alone to search when there is time afterward for us all to look together? Cool your impatience, Samir and Farrokh, lest we end up in immediate danger such as the time in the oasis."
Nodding her head to Bjoern to continue with the water, she does what she can to prepare herself for cleaning and also hide from sight their more expensive and not entirely legal contraband.
While Tairin is bathing Bjoern starts to walk around in the garden, checking for any holes in the wall and barring the smaller southern door for extra security.
That is quite defensible. And the wodden beam should hold them for a whle.
Moving on to the pagoda her looks at it quickly for any hidden surprises, like trapdoors but then moves on towards the main mansion. Moving up to the stairwell he shouts up.
"HELLO, is someone up there?"
"Samir, my thoughts are kin to Lady Tairin's. I will be washing briefly and then will apply my full skill and attention to the task of searching. If you would wait but a short time."
Patenemheb washes.
And notices Farrokh's expression.
Quietly he says:
"What is amiss, Farrokh?"
Clean and feeling revived and beautiful, with semi-wet hair trailing freely down her back, Tairin moved out of the Servant's House dressed in free flowing, airy garb, sans armour, with her scorpion whip and scimitar at her hip. Belet-Lil's talisman was around her neck, inside her shirt. Tairin had placed her kitten, Sabra, inside the shawl pouch across her chest and brought along her fine thieves' tools in case some lock needed to be picked or a trap disabled. Her other belongings she placed in a discreet corner of their sleeping quarters. The opium balls she checked and wrapped carefully and discreetly hid away from prying eyes.
Glancing at the Patenemheb with Farrokh talking quietly together and inspecting the dragon statues, Tairin gestured and called to them, "I see Bjoern there at the broad staircase leading to the entrance door. I think we should investigate why the door's been left open and if anyone is within. Will you come or will you stay here with the statues?"
Tairin gives the stonework a quick glance, wondering what has Farrokh so transfixed,
Moving forward, she whsipred in Yar-Ammonite to Sabra, "Keep quiet, little one. We need to move silently."
As she approached the broad staircase, she gestured to Bjoern to be quiet, lifting a finger to her lips, for his call was louder than prudent.
Tairin cast her eyes about the stairs for anything unusual or dangerous. It would not do for them to trip some dangerous trap as they ascended.
If satisfied it is safe to climb the stairs, Tairin will draw nearer to the open door, moving to side of it and delicately peeking around the corner of the door frame to see if there is some trap in place.
Then she peeks into the Entrance Hall to see if there is any movement or if she hear any sound coming from within.
"We have been told that Yetara and his group would not return til end of day. It is still morning, so we have time for a quick bath, laundering or sponging before we go explore the grounds and the main estate building. It has been said by Farrokh himself that such Eastern-styled buildings and grounds can hold hidden pitfalls and traps, so why would you wander off alone to search when there is time afterward for us all to look together? Cool your impatience, Samir and Farrokh, lest we end up in immediate danger such as the time in the oasis."
Farrokh bows graciously before Tairin's words and merely waits patiently. However, Samir, somewhat edgy, moves to flank the edge of the compound at least before returning to Tairin.
"I shall not go in yet, sayida, for now I wish to study the grounds a moment. I shall return swiftly..." he adds, then makes his walk around the inside of the wall of the estate.
"Begging your pardon, sayida; the gates themselves are easily secured with a heavy beam that fits in to joists for added support, but it seems that such a beam is not often used, or perhaps not for the front gate? I noticed it laying to the side in the front gate, though the rear gate it was still in place..."
"There is also a lock which prevents the latch from being lifted so one cannot simply open the doors, but what is that?" he says with an almost contemptuous wave of his hand.
"The walls are straight and extremely smooth, yet a good thief with a rope and hook could ascend them with some ease, as they are not overly tall. The wall, then, offers modest security yet it is likely more for a show of wealth than anything."
"More than that? I shall wait for you to bathe... Unless you need aid?" he says, a small smile curling his lip as he attempts to make Tairin smile and release some tension regarding his earlier edginess.
He then waits for her bath, fidgeting somewhat as he does.
"Samir, my thoughts are kin to Lady Tairin's. I will be washing briefly and then will apply my full skill and attention to the task of searching. If you would wait but a short time."
Samir nods his head.
"But of course," he says to Paten with a gracious tone.
So basically Samir is becoming "jealous" of Farrokh. In short, Samir is a wanderer who was hired on as a guide and scout by members of the party. Those members have all left the party - except for Tairin. Further, his experience and aid will become less valuable the further he travels to the west, whereas Farrokh's level of knowledge shall grow as he returns closer to where he (Farrokh) used to live.
Samir is likely nervous that his efforts to demonstrate his prowess and skill with the party are becoming less necessary and he shall be cast aside or "replaced" by Farrokh. This nervousness may have also contributed to his attack on the slave caravan as it demonstrates his over-eager desire to demonstrate how "valuable" he is by taking bold actions and gaining wealth for the party - the fact that his attack ended up being such a fiasco merely makes him more nervous with the party.
He knows that Tairin is confident with his skills, and that Bjeorn ambivalent for the most part; so now he is working harder - it seems - to marginilize Farrokh's usefulness to the party and enlarge his own usefulness to the party. In short; his more elaborate courtesy to Paten recently is likely a result as he's trying to "impress" Paten, whereas he knows that Tairin is already happy with him.
His entire action with her via the "Flirting" thing was a classic tactic to demonstrate to Farrokh that he - Samir - has a close and personal bond with Tairin that Farrokh does not share; in short, he's demonstrating that he's close to Tairin and Farrokh should not think to replace him.
It's not a slight on Tairin, or at least, he does not mean it to be; he's merely worried that Paten may attempt to persuade Tairin to dismiss him from her service. Of course, whether he is right or wrong doesn't matter to him, unfortunately, that's what he's worried about and why he's acting the way he has been recently...
Patenemheb washes.
And notices Farrokh's expression.
Quietly he says:
"What is amiss, Farrokh?"
Farrokh rubs his chin thoughtfully and responds.
"These stone structures," he says slowly as he looks at the dragon statues "this stone is not native to this place, yet they are heavy and elaborate - each weighing close to a thousand pounds, I would wager..." he says as he looks at them.
"The stone itself is semi-precious; so they could be worth a great deal if there was a buyer who had the money for such frippery; yet they are heavy... Whoever brought them to this place had the money and power enough to cart at least two-thousand pounds of semi-precious stones to the city from a great distance and without having them taken by bandits or other folk."
He looks at Paten thoughtfully.
"The master of this house is very wealthy, and he is missing. That a man with such wealth and power be missing strangely without any known reason is disquieting to my mind."
Moving on to the pagoda her looks at it quickly for any hidden surprises, like trapdoors but then moves on towards the main mansion. Moving up to the stairwell he shouts up.
You do not see any overt or obvious signs of a trapdoor or opening. To you, it looks like an obvious statement of wealth and power that could be seen from the street. If all it is a demonstration of wealth and power than this alone is not surprising; the owner of the home is clearly eager to demonstrate his power.
Glancing at the Patenemheb with Farrokh talking quietly together and inspecting the dragon statues, Tairin gestured and called to them, "I see Bjoern there at the broad staircase leading to the entrance door. I think we should investigate why the door's been left open and if anyone is within. Will you come or will you stay here with the statues?"
Tairin gives the stonework a quick glance, wondering what has Farrokh so transfixed,
Farrokh is correct in his above assessment. The statues seem to be jade; they're roughly 1,000 pounds. You'd wager that because of their size that they would not be worth much to anyone unless they could transport the statues, but to a collector, their "market price" would likely be easily fetch 2,000 GP if you had someone who had the ability to such statues and a desire for them.
Your stone cutting lets you know that part of their value is the attention to detail and the ornate patterns used while carving them. A thousand pounds of jade is not likely worth 2,000 GP; closer to 1,200, perhaps - but the artwork, as well as the fact that they are a single block of it, is why they are so valuable.
"HELLO, is someone up there?"
Sefu, hearing Bjeorn and Tairin comes over to speak to the party.
"My apologies; my master has already entered the house, for he has some knowledge of the place."
"He instructed me to bring our luggage inside to the master bedroom and storing my lady's gear next to the bedroom adjacent to it, which I have already done when we entered earlier."
"My master has his own key to this estate, it seems, and is familiar with the grounds."
"Every place that is open we have already walked in; yet I do not know what is behind the shut doors which we passed that you shall see inside, nor do I know where the stairs lead, excepting the ones to the bedroom, for my master did not show me, nor elaborate upon them."
"In any case, I saw none in the home a short while ago when I put their gear in the rooms," he adds.
Moving forward, she whsipred in Yar-Ammonite to Sabra, "Keep quiet, little one. We need to move silently."
Sabra peeks out and studies the house, but she hops down from her perch with Tairin and walks adjacent to her. She behaves unusually, for a cat, and acts much like a trained blood hound might - that is; she stays exactly at Tairin's side and seems willing to aid her in a search and does not run off nor move without Tairin's say-so.
This seems to be very odd indeed for a cat to act this way, but given its discovery there may be mysteries behind the tiny feline yet to be revealed...
As she approached the broad staircase, she gestured to Bjoern to be quiet, lifting a finger to her lips, for his call was louder than prudent.
Tairin cast her eyes about the stairs for anything unusual or dangerous. It would not do for them to trip some dangerous trap as they ascended.
If satisfied it is safe to climb the stairs, Tairin will draw nearer to the open door, moving to side of it and delicately peeking around the corner of the door frame to see if there is some trap in place.
Then she peeks into the Entrance Hall to see if there is any movement or if she hear any sound coming from within.
You do not see anything of special note or interest; though Sabra pauses suddenly and hisses at something, her hair moving back.
It is at the entrance to the door. You notice on the ground there seems to be evidence of some burnt stone; or rather, there may have been something which caused even the stones to have suffered something which caused cinders there - and localized to the area of stone just outside the door to the house.
You are not sure why, or what caused this. Clearly it did not effect Sefu and the others; but it seems strange that this would be like that, and Sabra herself be edgy.
Make a Spellcraft or Knowledge; Arcana check to learn more about this if you would. But other than the strange thing you noticed, the entrance itself seems utterly safe and without danger; and you notice no other secrets.
As you enter the main entrance hall the room seems to be exactly as Sefu described it (see above description for more details on the rooms you wish to search).
Again, that description does not include the possibility of secrets that were not searched for. And by Sefu's admission, he saw and examined nothing behind places that had doors that were shut.
Shortly, Patenemheb will quietly speak with Samir in Sushranite.
"Samir, your efforts and ability have not gone unnoticed. I for one respect your martial ability and your cunning. While I think you can be a little rash, swift action does have its merits. Timing, timing is key, Samir. And now, let us rejoin Lady Tairin."
"Come Farrokh."
"Samir, your efforts and ability have not gone unnoticed. I for one respect your martial ability and your cunning. While I think you can be a little rash, swift action does have its merits. Timing, timing is key, Samir. And now, let us rejoin Lady Tairin."
"Come Farrokh."
Samir seems a bit mollified, but he says nothing except - "Many thanks, goodly sir," somewhat formally and a bit stiffly, but a bit of the tension has relaxed from his frame.
He does seem a bit mollified, though you suspect that a long life near nobles and civilized men have taught him to be wary of such overt courtesy, even though you do seem sincere.
Even so, it will likely take time for him to truly feel comfortable with you and Farrokh, but you sense the process has begun.
Farrokh himself says nothing at he exchange, merely watching Samir.
He then follows Paten up the steps.
There at the opening to the doors you notice that Tairin is paused, studying the pristine and lavish room carefully.
However, her little kitten Sabra is poised near the doorway, her hair bristled on her back and she seems to be staring at something on the floor which looks much like a small pile of cinders, and little more.
Tairin herself seems to be intrigued by what the kitten is staring at, but from your observations there is no evidence of any wire, pressure plate, or - indeed - any mechanism to indicate a trap near the door.
Based on what Sefu has indicated earlier, you do not find this surprising, but it is true that Sabra seems perturbed by something.
Samir and Farrokh say nothing, but Samir rubs his chin thoughtfully as he waits with the company, peering around.
He turns to Farrokh.
"You have said there is a temple to the goddess Belit-lil in this city, good sir?"
Farrokh seems surprised at the question but nods.
"Aye... there is indeed, for she is a goddess whose followers transcend many nations."
Samir nods and turns and looks at the dragons outside and then studies the architecture in the courtyard again, and then the inside of the house.
"Sayida, whatever fortune may bring us, does not the style of this home recall to your mind the bath house of my late mistress? As she was a Priestess of Belit-lil, and a native to Taiking, I think that when we search the city we may learn more news if we visit such a temple," he says.
He pauses and turns to Paten and Farrokh.
"My apologies; before I served with my sayida I was employed by a priestess to Belit-lil; her temple was unique to many others, for it was not a mere brothel, as many of the more basic temples of Belit-lil, but it was designed to mirror the function of certain buildings of her homeland in the far east; in short, her temple acolytes were skilled in unique means of massage, as well as provide lavish bathing areas for both body and the laundering of clothing."
"The owner of this home seems to have similar tastes; as he is absent, it may be that we may learn more of his absence when we search the city," he adds.
With her own assessment of the dragon statues done and hearing Farrokh's evaluation, Tairin simply added, "The stone appears to be Jade and indeed they are heavy - possibly a thousand pounds in weight each. See the ornate patterns, these etchings make the single block Jade stone more valuable - I'd hazard to say at least 1,200 gold a piece."
Tairin listened lightly to the conversation between Samir and Patenemheb; not able to discern if there was an issue between them. Her focus seemed elsewhere.
When Sabra leapt gracefully from the shawl pouch to the ground and walked beside her, Tairin's dark brow raised and she smiled, curious about the little creature, yet instantly admiring her independence and bravery.
In Yar-Ammonite, she whispered, "Alright, little one. Just stay close."
Upon the sharp hissing by the entrance of the manse, Tairin puzzled, for she herself had not discerned any actual traps, mundane or magical, looked down and noted the strange cinders of some burnt stone. In soft Yar-Ammonite she commended the kitten's discovery, "Well caught, little one. Now let us see what it is. I need you to hush now."
She knelt down for a closer inspection, studying what she could of the remains without touching or inhaling the substance.
Feeling and hearing the presence of Patenemheb, Samir and Farrokh behind her, Tairin lifted a hand to gesture them to halt/stay and quietly warned in Susrahnite, "There is something, here. For now do not cross the threshold until I can study it and determine what it is. Give me a moment." And then went back to silently studying the cinders.
Feeling and hearing the presence of Patenemheb, Samir and Farrokh behind her, Tairin lifted a hand to gesture them to halt/stay and quietly warned in Susrahnite, "There is something, here. For now do not cross the threshold until I can study it and determine what it is. Give me a moment." And then went back to silently studying the cinders.
It is indeed safe to cross, and there is no trap - at least, not currently...
However, your study of the issue leads you to believe there was a trap at one point; likely magical, and that someone had attempted to enter the house when the owner was not there.
The ash on the ground is old; it's hard to guess how long it has sat there without any touch/disturbance; though it has been touched when Sefu, Daniha and Yetera swept over it with their gear. One thing is clear, given the rest of the pristine nature of the house, it is unusual to find it here.
You are not sure; but based on your excellent study of magic, combined with your observation, you believe that there was once a Glyph of Warding on the entrance to the house and that someone had tried to enter and was consumed by the power of the spell.
All that remains of them is ash...
Farrokh waits patiently by the doorway, but Samir's hand slides to the hilt of his blade as he waits to hear what Tairin has noticed.
Bjoern moves with Tairin, but as a northener slave he feels a bit out of his depth where to find hidden secrets in a house. Well in a way to keep the furniture and walls intact.
Still he is delighted as Tairin joins him and after awhile will point to strange or beautiful items and ask about their pupose and origin.
After some thoughtful contemplation, Tairin stood up and looked to her male companions, noting Bjoern's presence, and quietly advised, "There was once a Glymph of Warding placed on the entrance of this house. It appears that someone has attempted to enter the house uninvited and the magic was triggered, blasting them and turning them to ash," pointing to what remained of the intruder. Tairin shook herself; she did not want to imagine the gruesome death.
"Since Yetara, Daniya and Sefu have passed this threshold earlier and survived, the warding magic may be no more..."
"It was fortunate Sabra sniffed out the cinders and warned me with her hissing. Sabra, continue to stay close to me as we move about inside. Warn me if you think there is danger."
"Let us search the secret or locked places while we have this opportunity but do not forget Farrokh's warning of deadly traps in such houses. I would feel better if Bear stayed close to me, yet I will do what I can to search out any pitfalls or traps as we move within. I would like to go to the Dining Hall there, pointing to the section of the hall, toward the door behind the silk curtain. It appears to not have a lock, yet we should check to see if its trapped first before we proceed to open it."
Once Tairin is near the door, she will look for mundane traps and then cast Detect Magic to determine if there is some magical trap.
In response to Farrokh and Samir's exchange:
"Aye. We have much to learn about this house and its master."
Given such a dire warning by Tairin and her new companion, Patenemeheb will himself begin examination of the doorway for arcane remnants.
At 3rd level, the scholar may use her knowledge to identify magical items. She may examine the item as with the spell detect magic, and may add her level to the Spellcraft check to determine its properties.
Sabra glances around the room, noting the silk curtain to the room's right and the heavily locked door on the room's left.
At the end of the room there is a well made set of wooden walls, but it seems clear that the central piece is meant to slide apart.
Given that Sefu had indicated that his master had already entered this room and traveled upstairs it is likely one of these doors leads to a stairway.
However, no amount of searching results in any secret passages, except that behind the silk curtain is a wooden door that is well-made, though sealed with a modest lock.
Tairin; the lock does not seem very complex. Would you like to attempt it?
==================
In a discreet voice, Tairin instructed, "Sabra, little one, stay back until I can open this lock. Bjoern, once I am done with the lock, I would ask that you open the door and go through first as you are much hardier than I. I will be behind you, guiding and aiding as much as I am able."
Tairin removed the fine thieves' tools from the deep pocket of her garb, bent down by the lock and steadily and deftly worked on it.
Patenemheb realises that his own practical knowledge of bypassing locks is limited. But he does know a few things, some of which may come in useful...
"Perhaps a little *that* way...", he muses in a barely audible whisper in Yar-Ammonite. Perhaps to himself. Perhaps just loud enough for Tairin to hear.
Tairin, even as she concentrated on the task at hand, heard Paten very quietly advise in their native tongue, and nodded her head to show she had heard him.
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The company moves slowly the doorway behind the silk screen and slides it open to reveal a sturdy wooden door with a modest lock.
A cursory examination reveals that it is not magical in any way; and the lock itself springs open with only the most minor of efforts.
As the door slowly swings open, Tairin is able to see what is in room Room 9...
Peering inside the dim gloom you are at once assaulted by the scent of various spices and herbs which seem to be in the back of the chamber.
You can see at once that this is clearly the Kitchen for the meeting/dining area you had recently been standing in. Cutting boards stacked against racks which hold well-honed knives, as well as various braziers for cooking oil (all well-scrubbed and clean, albeit dusty with a lack of use for some time) are revealed.
In addition to a well-furnished kitchen, this room also contains a walk-in pantry, filled with salted meats, dried rice, bottles of oil, and similar foodstuffs. Several sleeping mats are tucked away in a corner, having perhaps belonged to the cook and his serving-girls.
You notice small clay pots; inside of which are stored dried leaves which you presume to be teas, as well as clay jars filled with honey, salt, cumin, sage, coriander and crushed red pepper.
Strings of garlic and onions hang from the ceiling; though they have a bit of rot to them as they have been hanging there for some time.
Finally you find various small jars filled with a thin, black, watery sauce Tairin would not be familiar with.
In the antechamber Samir calls out warily to Tairin -
"Do you need assistance within? Is it safe?"
The others merely wait to see what will happen next...
Marvelling at the hidden store and the smells coming fro the assortment of clay pots, Tairin turned to look at her companions, still speaking in softer tones, "It is a cook's room filled with salted meats, dried rice, oils, herbs, tea leaves, honey, garlic, onions, black gravy and such. It has not been used for some time from the settled dust I can see, however the utensils and pots are clean and oiled. When we leave the house we can take some of the food for our meal tonight."
Looking on the opposite side of the silk screen and gesturing to her companions, "Let us try those heavy doors. The lock looks much sturdier than this one. We check for traps and then try to pick the lock. I am curious to see what is kept within."
Moving with soft steps toward the door, Tairin momentarily paused and much like before begins to study the door, its frame and the floor/threshold leading up to it for any signs of trap/s. Whispering for Paten to join her, she added, "A second pair of eyes never hurts, if you're willing. And, Bear, be ready to enter, please." Sabra, on soft paws, joined her mistress and waiting, her emerald green eyes on the teak door.
Tairin then casts Detect Magic on the heavy teak door to determine if there are magical lures in place.
Drawing out her fine thieves' tools, she carefully/methodically begins to pick the second lock.
As you approach the door Sabra scoots herself between you and the door itself, and hisses hard at it.
At this time you elect to use "Detect Magic" on the doorway...
The results are mixed; this is because Detect Magic acts as "cone" effect; consequentially, it radiates magic beyond the door and on the door.
However, if you use Detect Magic ON the door (I assume you hold action for 3 rounds for Full Effect) you'd at least get a "Moderate to possibly Strong" aura on the door.
Meanwhile, if you use Knowledge: Arcana please roll once for each Aura on the door. More results will soon follow once I have the rolls.
Sabra's sharp *hiss* stopped Tairin in her tracks and using her own magic, studied the door for a few moments hoping to gauge if there was some potent magic which concerned the cat. She attempted to discern what that magic was.
Bidding Patenemheb forward, she asked quietly, "There's magic on this door or just beyond. Do you have skill with such things?"
Sabra's sharp *hiss* stopped Tairin in her tracks and using her own magic, studied the door for a few moments hoping to gauge if there was some potent magic which concerned the cat. She attempted to discern what that magic was.
[dice=Know. Arcana re aura on door]1d20+9
Bidding Patenemheb forward, she asked quietly, "There's magic on this door or just beyond. Do you have skill with such things?"
Turning to her companions, Tairin looked sheepish and quietly advised, "The magical auras are strong on this door, yet I cannot discern their exact, true power or what it would mean if we were to try to open them. Seeing what the ward did by the entrance door, and gauging Sabra's reaction to whatever it is here, I would rather not turn into a pile of ash. Perhaps we leave this door for now, unless there is someone among you with the talent for discerning magical auras?"
Bjoern smiles. "Agreed. No reason to risk our lifes."
Going into the pantry he grabs some raisins and smiles boyishly at Tairin.
"Where to next?"