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The company insists on splitting up once again.
Half of them work on destroying the statue; the other half begin to examine the remains of the dead for loot or clues as to their motivations.
Ropes and work are used to tear down the hideous head which disfigured the temple. The broken pieces are collected and cast into the depths of the dark and loathsome hole in the western side of the temple.
Though the sound of the parts are heard clattering off the sides of the depths there is never the sound of them eventually hitting bottom...
Nevertheless, the cursed symbol of Yadar has been destroyed. Despite this, the temple still has the dread weight of fear upon it.
Those among you with any knowledge of gods and beings beyond the realm of men know enough to know that even those creatures that could be considered benign gods are ones that still inspire fear in mortals - yet this fear is not born of darkness, but rather it is born of awe.
Searching the bodies reveals little - the men are dead, some of them have been torn apart by the teeth of their own allies.
Upon closer examination you notice that the canine teeth of the men have been cut or shaved, as if with a metal file, and are now sharpened. You do not know, but it seems likely, that this sect of followers of Yadar sharpen their teeth for a purpose; at the least, all of them have sharpened teeth.
All of your work takes time - in this case, it is now roughly 10:00 PM when you are finished with your search of the bodies and work in the temple.
Working diligently Bjoern collects the coins and the valueable weapons and ties the beasts together for easier transport back to their camp.
"We are ready to return!"
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As they move, Osan suddenly looks at them.
"I am curious on one thing - what led you to this place and the need to fight I and my men?" he asks the group.
Tairin wondered whether she should speak the plain truth or continue to spin her half-truths; the former won out; but how plainly she would speak - was still in deliberation.
"I shall speak plainly for this mission was undertaken without malice by us. A woman named Sabiha came to our home and told us a tale of two thieves who broke into the grand palace and stole the Bey's most valuable emerald. She then said one of thieves, named Osan, betrayed and stabbed his ally, leaving them for dead, and, taking the gem made plans to meet a procurer to the south-east. Sabiha hired us to retrieve the gem and bring her the head of the deceitful thief, Osan. She strongly insisted we accept this task and then offered us a good deal of coin to soften the blow. We found ourselves hard pressed to refuse her for she seemed well connected to both high thief and official in the city. So, here we are. Do you know this Sabiha?"
=====
"Let us ride swiftly then. Back to Zul-Bazzir and the estate. I do not want to linger any longer and encounter more of those Yadarans - not in the present state of our fighters."
Tairin wondered whether she should speak the plain truth or continue to spin her half-truths; the former won out; but how plainly she would speak - was still in deliberation.
" We found ourselves hard pressed to refuse her for she seemed well connected to both high thief and official in the city. So, here we are. Do you know this Sabiha?"
Osan frowns a bit as he considers things.
"I do not know her, though it may be that she is using a false name. As to why the ruse? It is difficult to guess, though I have many enemies."
"That she was insistent that your company complete this task by this very night makes me wonder... but I think that is a conversation that should wait until we reach our destination."
"Let us ride swiftly then. Back to Zul-Bazzir and the estate. I do not want to linger any longer and encounter more of those Yadarans - not in the present state of our fighters."
Farrokh coughs a bit, in an effort to politely interrupt.
"Begging your pardon, lady; but we return to the city with nearly two score of new mounts in our possession. This will certainly arouse suspicion as large caravans do not enter the city gates at this time of night."
Osan grunts at this.
"Let me attend to the guards at the gate, they shall allow us to pass the gates unmolested."
"As to where you wish to sequester your mounts? That shall be a bit more complicated. The city streets are crowded during the daylight; at night it would be easier to move them through. Yet whatever you choose to do you will certainly be noticed. Indeed, even if you entered during the daylight with such a good amount of beasts with tack and harness, as well as the excellent condition which they are in, the arrival of a small company of outriders with such a grouping of war-trained mounts with no riders... This would is something that anyone would notice."
"Though, to be fair, I had assumed that at least one of your companions skilled with horses would know that this city is not well suited to riding in and that - surely - having so many animals would arouse some suspicion."
He glances at your company as you ride.
"I am somewhat surprised that you and your companions have not devised a strategy on how you wish to conceal the details of your mission from the city as a whole. Or is that you wish to make entrance?" he adds.
Patenemheb makes deft assessment of the battlefield spoils.
A servant of one who oversees healing and battle should be familiar with such acts, he muses.
He ponders the meaning of the ring - and hidden workings in his own extensive recall spring to life.
And what secrets do you conceal? They shall not be concealed for overly much longer.
************
Hearing out Osan, Patemeheb nods slightly, as if confirming something to himself.
"If we wish to maintain even a polite fiction of a distinction, then Yasala would be best suited entering alone out of our group, though perhaps with your blessing Osan."
He pauses.
"I believe that it will be difficult, bordering on impossible, to conceal permanently at least suspicion of our involvement in this affair. It may be best to assume the cult as our foe from now on - at least until the matter comes to a conclusion."
It is doubtful to any listening to Patenemheb's tone that he expects such a conclusion to be a peaceable one.
"It is my understanding that sheer impression of power counts for a great deal in this city. It may well be best for us to accept the necessity to grow ours."
A servant of one who oversees healing and battle should be familiar with such acts, he muses.
He ponders the meaning of the ring - and hidden workings in his own extensive recall spring to life.
And what secrets do you conceal? They shall not be concealed for overly much longer.
The bronze ring is indeed a signet ring. It belongs to the second most important noble family in all of Khazistan, second only to the Padishah himself. Whoever bears this ring is known to effectively speak with the voice of the Padishah. That is not the Padishah's signet ring itself is not surprising; that would likely not leave the palace. However, it's a sure bet that the ring belonged to one that spoke with his voice and his authority.
As to why it is here, you'd have no idea - though it is possible that here may be more evidence in the coded scrolls you discovered.
Patenemheb adds:
"The priest bore this bronze signet ring."
He shows the ring in his palm.
"Osan, this is of the family second only to the Padishah. The owner of this ring is - or was - one speaking with his voice and authority. The scrolls we found might tell us more."
Bjoern listens with interest and shrugs in the end.
"Well it seems that we made some big enemys."
"Damnation," Osan retorts angrily at the news of the ring.
"My lord; perhaps some of them may have escaped?" his mercenary ventures hesitatingly.
"Nay; it is unlikely. These dogs must have slain them just as they were arriving," Osan responds then scowls a moment, pondering in silence.
Finally, he speaks directly to your company on his personal musings.
"I do not believe that the priest had the ring long in his possession. Instead, it is more likely that he or his cursed men took it this very night."
"It is fortunate that it is reclaimed, but it sickens me to guess the fate of him who had carried it," he adds, his eyes troubled.
"We must examine those scrolls you mention soon."
Samir, hearing this conversation, interrupts.
"You seem to be very well versed in these matters. How is that you have so much knowledge on the subject?" he asks in his usual direct manner.
Osan glances at the suspicious Nabistisian and then turns his gaze ahead.
"I was to meet with an agent of the Padishah this very night. He did not arrive, indeed, I assumed you were perhaps those agents before our confrontation earlier."
"I can only assume that the man was intercepted as he entered the valley to seek for me by those vile cultists. Their priest likely knew the value of the ring itself, but I doubt that his men did... In any case, I grieve for the loss of the men to those dogs."
He thumps his fist on the pommel of his saddle.
"Would that we reached the end of this journey so we might learn more of what information was to be revealed to us in those scrolls," he adds.
Yasala surveys the herd of animals and gear following behind the group. "If we wish to dispose of these quietly, I can find a merchant who will either come out to retrieve them tonight, or perhaps tomorrow once the gates are open. Walking in with them ourselves right now would create too many questions. We would need someone to stay with them as a guard while I found the merchant, however."
"Another option is for me to simply wait until the morning and then take them in myself, as I can easily pass for a transporter of animals when speaking with the guards." She quickly checks her pack to ensure everything that she would need is present. "Either way, if I am to do this I would need to know how to meet back up with you afterwards as I do not know where you reside."
Patenemheb solemnly listens to Osan's response.
"Indeed, a fate best not thought of. At least vengeance was wrought on the ranks of their likely killers, and likely more yet."
Patenemheb turns to Yasala.
"In my view, it is too dangerous to remain out here with an obvious collection of animals. I would have you return through the gate this night. As for meeting us, we can give you directions..."
"I do not know her, though it may be that she is using a false name. As to why the ruse? It is difficult to guess, though I have many enemies."
"That she was insistent that your company complete this task by this very night makes me wonder... but I think that is a conversation that should wait until we reach our destination."
Tairin believed Osan; yet she knew he would have more to say once they were back in town and had privacy to speak openly.
"I, too, believe she knows more of what was to happen this night. And, yes, let us continue once we have returned safely to the city. Who knows how many of these Yadaran seers have noted the destruction of that accursed idol head and have dispatched their faithful."
"I was to meet with an agent of the Padishah this very night. He did not arrive, indeed, I assumed you were perhaps those agents before our confrontation earlier. I can only assume that the man was intercepted as he entered the valley to seek for me by those vile cultists. Their priest likely knew the value of the ring itself, but I doubt that his men did... In any case, I grieve for the loss of the men to those dogs.""
"I am aggrieved you have lost your ally in such a manner, Osan. Yet, we now know his fate and you may address this vile act in the days to come."
Looking to her companions, she added, "As to the scrolls and other articles discovered this night, we will have more time and luck examining them back at the estate. We cannot linger here any longer."
At mention of how to bring in their collected mounts, and following discussion as to Yasala bringing them into the city through the gates, Tairin, while gently cradling the sleeping, wounded kitten inside the pouch, brought forth an alternative, "Thirty mounts will not only draw the attention of the city guard but all the eyes on our company and estate. I am clever enough to know we could get a tidy sum for all thirty creatures; yet why must we go to all the trouble? Let us simply take one or two and lead them behind us. We could bring in at least ten animals in this fashion, and, if questioned, we could simply tell the gate guards that we brought spare mounts as we have travelled far and did not want to tax or kill our main mounts. With Osan's influence over the guard, we could ride in with little fuss and notice and then walk all ten mounts back to the estate and house them there until morning. If any official questions us, we can say we purchased them on our journey across the sands - that we happened upon such a merchant and struck a bargain. To own and sell ten mounts is more practical than Yasala spinning stories that she is a transporter of animals and then be found in our company at the end of her hasty transactions. I can use my charming influence on any officials to make them believe, if needs be. Yasala will then be able to enter the city with us instead of on her own and hoping to handle all the mounts through the narrow city streets and then finding a place to stable/sell them at such late night. Either way, we must go now for we cannot be certain how many will be drawn to this place now we have broken the Yadaran idol. So, let us swiftly agree on a plan, secure the mounts and get to riding."
Patenemheb sees the sense in Tairin's words.
"Your plan is an apt one and I recommend that we follow that course of action. Osan, does aiding us enter this night sound acceptable to you?"
The party selects the mounts among the beasts which they have found and leave the rest.
They then collect the gear which they want, leaving the rest.
When you arrive at the gates the guards seem almost amused to see what appears to be a caravan arrive at night; to them, it seems as if it is an easy chance to collect some bribe money if you wish to enter during the night.
However, Osan moves forward and speaks to them.
”Fools! You will allow me and my company to enter, or I shall inform my lord, Khadim Bey, himself!”
The guards blanche at this and they seem uncertain.
”Why should the servants of Khadim Bey be so covered in blood and filth?” says one of them that seems more intelligent than the others.
Osan’s eyes narrow in the dim light of the torches.
”We are not answerable to you, sir,” he growls with an intent voice ”and our gear, notwithstanding, shall not dissuade us from our purpose this very night.”
The man looks nervous at Osan’s force of personality and glances at the other gate guards and Osan continues.
”You shall let us pass without further word, or my lord shall know of it in the morning,” he adds.
The man studies your company for a moment and nods his head.
”Very well, very well,” he mutters and motions for the other guards to let your company pass.
Your company then rides in to the city and moves forward through the streets to the wealthier part of the city, where the large hill that the palace of the city’s Bey lives, and near to where your own home is located.
Once you are out of the general site of the gate guards Osan and his man dismount to lead the horses through the streets.
”I will not yet return to my lord’s house this night; I am required to conclude business and it seems our paths are yet conjoined. Also, the ring you possess must be returned to its rightful master,” he adds.
Seeing that you are going to your estates Osan and his guard will come with you.
When you arrive and the beasts are sequestered he follows you in to your home in to the large room that you are free to discuss private matters. He orders his guard to remain in the courtyard and stand watch, and any of your own people may do so – yet he does not wish to speak in front of mere servants about matters he deems to be private.
Once you are as comfortable as possible, he studies you.
”This is the home of that cursed easterner Zheng-ya; or was, until recently,” he says with a thoughtful voice.
”Yet that devilish sorcerer would not allow such a meeting to occur here during his absence… at least, not if he were alive.”
”My compliments,” he said as he nods his head as if he is not surprised that your company now possesses the home.
”You spoke to me about a woman who hired you to bring my demise. It is true that I do not know this woman, and, indeed, I believe she used a false name. Even so, you should know that had you aided her in that objective you would have become marked men, for while I serve at the pleasure of Bey of this city, he is not my true master.”
He pauses a moment, as if deciding on a heavy matter, then continues.
”My master is the Padishah. I have been sent to this city as a private agent to help aid its leader, for there have been rumors of unrest and growing insurrection in this place.”
”The jewel you spoke of was indeed stolen, yet I believe that those who took it plan to use it to finance their growing group of rebels here. I am not entirely certain as to the details of what must follow, indeed, tonight I was to meet with agents of my master at the ancient temple. There we were to discuss what his plans and policies are for me and how to proceed with the growing threat here,” he adds.
”The ring you found was a certainty of the truth of the document that had the instructions. No doubt that he and his escort where found and slaughtered even as they drew near to the temple itself by those cultist dogs. As for the priest that took the ring and the letter? Clearly he would not have had time to study it, for it was encoded so that none could read it without knowledge of the code, or time to decipher the code – and he certainly did not have time to decipher it given how soon he arrived after my master's men were to arrive.”
”Would you allow me to see the scroll so I may be able to attempt to learn the truth of what my master wished to communicate?’ he asks you.
Patenemheb makes sure to take the priests' scimitar, dagger, and ring, wrapping them carefully from sight. Also, the scrivener's tools.
He ensures that the bronze signet ring, scrolls, and coins are held securely.
He won't object to others taking goods.
He silently observes Osan dealing with the gate guards.
On discovering Osan's path, he says:
"Fortune favours us."
Upon entering the grounds, he says to Farrokh:
"Watch also in the courtyard. While I doubt foes will strike this, or spies lurk, it is best not to assume such."
To Osan on the matter of the master of the house:
"Gratitude. A matter of less pressing note than your own. Let us enter and converse in surety."
Once inside, with the tale told, he replies:
"Maintaining order in the city is a laudable goal, Osan. I am of a mind to pass you the signet ring and scrolls."
Patenemheb methodically begins to retrieve the ring and scrolls from carefully packed bags.
This has the added benefit of giving his companions breath to add note or to object, as they might.
Tairin studies the man -
"I am certain that your statements are true, sir," she says, then gives Paten a glance, nodding her head as if trying to confirm to her fellow Yar-Ammonite that she trusts Osan.
"Here is information, perhaps you can make something of it?" she adds, then hands him over the document.
Osan nods his head in response and takes the document from her.
He takes time read it over and study it before making his reply.
"This document mentions that my master wishes me to speed the investigation; it is, sadly, nearly a week old, but he mentions that emissaries from Zul-Bazzir have already been seen within the boundaries of Khazabad. He does not know, but believes, that they may be seeking to strengthen alliances in my master's city in an effort to try to supplant the Bey here."
He thinks a moment.
"This information must be kept secret, of course. If those nobles discover our purpose then they will certainly seek to change their tactics."
"If we keep things quiet they may become overconfident and it shall be easier to discover them."
"No doubt, kind sir, we are happy to keep your secret. After all, there are many ways that friends can aid friends," she says with a small smile and places her hand on his arm in a comforting manner.
Osan seems to blush a bit and then nods politely.
"Many thanks, I will remember our friendship," he says with a sincere voice.
Osan then leans back in the chair and studies you all.
"What do you wish to do with the gear you have taken? Specifically the scrolls you found on the dead priest?" he asks.
Bjoern nods."Everything of value, and scrolls could give us some insight on them!"
Patenemheb nods.
"We shall of course hold our tongues on these matters, Osan. As for the goods, we would need time and study to ascertain their worth. In the vein of Bjoern, we could gain considerable insight on the cultists."
Yasala remains silent through much of the conversation. She is still learning of her new companions' activities and as such has nothing to add to talk of previous homeowners and mysterious women. She makes careful mental notes of everything they discuss, especially the details of the ring and document that were found. She takes a good look at every document that they discuss, as with her training in forgery it has become second nature to study correspondence and become familiar with the handwriting and format.
Although she is more focused on what information is being shared, she notes Osan's worry about secrecy and nods when the others reassure him. "I see no reason to share any of this outside our group here, the less who know of the situation the better until we can figure out how to best resolve it."
While listening to the conversation, she begins to study the scrolls that Paten has brought out, looking for patterns in the letters so as to help decipher the code.
Once Patenemheb gets an opportunity to study the remaining scrolls, he will first attempt to ascertain if they are magical.
He then takes a pass at deciphering them, accepting aid from Yasala or others.
Given more time, he will examine the dagger, then the scimitar.
”Good sir, you have ridden long this night and through many difficulties. Perhaps you and your servant would wish to remain here in our quarters so you do not have to travel further?” Tairin says solicitously with a somewhat flirtatious smile, her voice dropping to a low, throaty timbre.
”I thank you for that courtesy,” Osan says in response.
”I am quite tired, and having a comfortable bed to rest in at this hour would certainly be appreciated.”
Tairin offers a bright smile to the man.
”We would be delighted to have you here,” she says, then claps her hands once and Kara ben enters the room and bows.
”Take this man here to my chambers above; provide him with fresh linens and a bowl and water to cleanse himself for his ease; provide quarters also for his manservant outside,” she says with a polite but brisk voice.
She turns back to Osan.
”Of course, I shall provide you with my own quarters kind sir; it is the finest and far from adequate for one such as yourself, but I hope it shall suffice?”
Osan clears his throat a bit awkwardly.
”I am certain it shall be wonderful,” he responds with a nod of his head at your company.
”Not at all. In the morning we shall provide an escort to your own home, if you would like. Meanwhile, please enjoy our hospitality this evening,” she adds, then gives a brisk nod to Kara ben.
Kara ben bows before Tairin and calls to S’bu and their guardsmen escorts Osan’s bodyguard to your servant quarters outside even as he himself takes Osan upstairs.
Soon the guests are situated in your home and when they and your servants have retired, except for Kara ben, who remains in the antechamber out of earshot, though ready to respond if you need something, you are then in private.
Tairin turns and addresses the group.
”My friends, we have all fought well tonight. I am pleased we all survived and defeated the danger we faced tonight, but I must say that I fear we have not wholly succeeded,” she says.
”Before I continue, I wish to add that this woman,” she says with a polite nod of her head to Yasala ”has done many things to aid us this night. I feel confident we can treat her as an ally, and that we can take us in to our confidence given how she has proven herself this night.”
”As an ally, I feel confident in adding that you can find a place with us within our walls. If you wish to, that is. But in either case, I feel it is reasonable to explain and consider our current position,” Tairin begins in a no-nonsense way.
”While we did slay many a dangerous threat this night, it is a certainty that we did not eradicate our primary issue. Specifically; we were hired by a low-class adventurer who claimed she would pay us if we slew the man Osan. Given her gear and garb I do not believe she had the coin to pay us should we succeed. Instead, I suspect that the outcome tonight would be – at least for her – that we should threaten Osan with physical damage and fail but convince him that he is in danger even while negating her own responsibility; or that we should succeed in killing him outright and he would be dead… If we returned to her I suspect she would likely to refuse to meet with us, or – more likely – meet with us to learn what happened then kill us outright to distance herself from the crime, especially given Osan is apparently the major domo to Khadim Bey.”
She taps her finger lightly on the table.
”It seems logical to me that the best course of action is to deal with this woman directly; we must find out who she is, and who she works for. The letter on the dead ally of Osan suggests nobles are conspiring here against the Bey; Osan is now in our debt, but learning who those nobles are should be even more useful to us.”
She thinks for a moment.
”The script of the codes on the documents we discovered suggest that they would take a long time to decipher. Perhaps hours, perhaps days,” she says slowly ”I could attempt to do that, if you wish to use the time to attempt to track down the woman who hired us.”
”This also provides us with greater advantages. This Osan is not only an aid to the bey of this city, but he is also acting as an agent to the Padishah of this city. If we are in his good graces the rewards would be impressive.”
”A man with such connections could likely aid us in learning what is in the texts we found in the library here; his resources are sure to be extensive, so he may even be able to help Talar find his family,” she says with a nod to Talar.
She pauses to stroke Sabra gently behind her ears as the little kitten pokes her head out and glances around, then snuggles back against Tairin.
”If Farrokh used this time to sell our recently acquired goods, Samir could then seek to learn information for us; he is good at blending in, and if he acts alone I am certain he can learn more if he acts alone.”
”For myself, I will try to find out books of lore and then do what I can to decipher these scrolls. Perhaps my friend Mother Jelah at the temple of Belit-lil may be of assistance in this matter. I know this will keep me from you all, but I believe that if Paten, Bjoern, Talar – and, if possible, Yasala, if she is willing, of course – will be aptly suited to routing out this woman and discovering what she knows.”
Tairin glances around the room at you all.
”If we are in agreement with this then perhaps we can retire and begin our respective missions in the morning” she asks the group.
As an ally, I feel confident in adding that you can find a place with us within our walls. If you wish to, that is.
"I would be very happy to stay here with you. It is a much better prospect than what I was looking forward to before we met."
After agreeing to remain, Yasala sits quietly through Tairin's summary, paying close attention and taking mental notes, until the end.
Samir could then seek to learn information for us; he is good at blending in, and if he acts alone I am certain he can learn more if he acts alone.
"I have not had much of a chance to discuss my past with any of you yet, but I can say that I am relatively adept at blending in and getting information. If there is a chance that your group already has a reputation here I might be able to find out things that your man is unable to if I also were to spend tomorrow asking questions on my own."
She looks around at the group. "It seems that we will be working together, unless someone has a reason to wish it otherwise. If you wish to know anything of me, please ask. I don't think any of it is pertinent to this situation or our relationship but if it would make you feel more comfortable now that we have been thrown together so quickly, I have no secrets."
Talar keeps an eye on their guests as they start settling in. Although he did not see a reason they would be betrayed, that is no reason to be reckless.
When Tairin invites Yasala to be a trusted ally, Talar raises a brow but says nothing. Normally he would object to such fast trust, but he felt a kindred spirit in Yasala, he approached matters much the same as he did and he felt any conflict she had would be expressed openly. He nods, glancing at Yasala.
Talar absorbs Tairin's words silently, and when his sister is mentioned he nods sharply. "Yes, you should remain here and decipher the writings. I can lead a small group to track down this woman, it may be rather easy if she had already been planning on meeting with us. Was there any way we were supposed to get in contact with her once we completed our mission?" He inquires. Notably he did not bristle as much as he normally does when his sister was brought up.
"But yes, rest first. Many of us are still injured and in need of additional attention from our healers int he morning."
"The dagger is a bane to the unliving, most useful given our repeated encounters with their kind. The scimitar is enchanted - and the scabbard enhances its sharpness."
"I believe that we could all discuss much of our past. I would have you as an ally Yasala. And Talar, I believe that you have also proven yourself a worthy companion. I have trust in Tairin's abilities to unlock the hidden meaning within the scrolls. I will bring my talents to bear on hunting down Sabiha."
Talar keeps an eye on their guests as they start settling in. Although he did not see a reason they would be betrayed, that is no reason to be reckless.
Perception to keep an eye on guests: 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (13) + 11 = 24
Sense Motive on guests: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (5) + 9 = 14
Stealth to do so unnoticed, or at least subtly: 1d20 + 12 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 12 - 2 = 21
The Bodyguard: this guy is clearly freaked out about the entire night. Apart from being wounded, he seems edgy, fidgety and somewhat afraid - but likely seeing his allies being slain by you and your companions, then seeing you and your companions slay/drive away roughly 30 cannibalistic cultists followed by some sort of demon from the nether worlds - it's clear he's shaken up, but there's no way this guy is going to do anything to cause you trouble. He's grateful of your help but seems nervous that he even accidentally get on your bad side, not to mention the fact that his boss is clearly eager to support you.
Osan: Classic politician type. By that I mean he saw you as an enemy and threat when you attacked him and his men - his ability to downshift to now seeing you as allies is likely born of years of being able to recognize that allies/enemies can suddenly change. He's fully prepared to work with you guys; he wants to be friends with you guys. However, you can also tell he's studying you carefully and watching you carefully - you don't think that's very suspicious, though. It's clear he wants to learn as much as possible about you as he can, but that's only logical. At this point he is firmly committed to doing whatever he can to remain in your good graces; however, it's certain that he's also studying your company carefully to learn how trustworthy you might be.
Neither seem to notice your observations, their attention mainly focused on Tairin at this time.
When Tairin invites Yasala to be a trusted ally, Talar raises a brow but says nothing. Normally he would object to such fast trust, but he felt a kindred spirit in Yasala, he approached matters much the same as he did and he felt any conflict she had would be expressed openly. He nods, glancing at Yasala.
The company considers this and Paten also voices his opinion.
"The dagger is a bane to the unliving, most useful given our repeated encounters with their kind. The scimitar is enchanted - and the scabbard enhances its sharpness."
"I believe that we could all discuss much of our past. I would have you as an ally Yasala. And Talar, I believe that you have also proven yourself a worthy companion. I have trust in Tairin's abilities to unlock the hidden meaning within the scrolls. I will bring my talents to bear on hunting down Sabiha."
Tairin glances at Paten.
”There is something else; since we have met her there has been a strange figure following us; this person looks as if he is from Azimba. I am wondering if the two may be working together, but I do not know. However, I believe he was seen near to you during when Samir, Bjeorn and Talar were at the house of Abu Khafi – it is possible you may learn more of him there.”
”For now, I shall go in disguise in the town itself. Please do not share with anyone that I survived the dangers of the tombs – let them assume I am dead for now, so that I may conduct my business alone with relative safety,” she adds.
Talar absorbs Tairin's words silently, and when his sister is mentioned he nods sharply. "Yes, you should remain here and decipher the writings. I can lead a small group to track down this woman, it may be rather easy if she had already been planning on meeting with us. Was there any way we were supposed to get in contact with her once we completed our mission?" He inquires. Notably he did not bristle as much as he normally does when his sister was brought up.
"But yes, rest first. Many of us are still injured and in need of additional attention from our healers int he morning."
Tairin turns to Talar.
”She indicated that she would meet us at the Yar-Ammonite necropolis in the region they call “Old Town”. According to her, there is an empty tomb near a faceless black sphinx. She is supposed to meet with us some time after sundown tomorrow, or later this night, depending on the time,” she adds the last, then stretches a bit, clearly tired from the long day.
With no further business to discuss, the party then heads to bed and gains the rest they can from a good night’s sleep.
”There is something else; since we have met her there has been a strange figure following us; this person looks as if he is from Azimba. I am wondering if the two may be working together, but I do not know. However, I believe he was seen near to you during when Samir, Bjeorn and Talar were at the house of Abu Khafi – it is possible you may learn more of him there.”
At this, Yasala perks up. "I still will do my investigating tomorrow, but perhaps while the rest of you are focusing on the unknown woman I will focus on this man you speak of. I was pretty involved in business ... and other things ... in my native Azimba before I traveled north. I might have a better chance of identifying this man or understanding why he is here."
Tairin glances at Paten.”There is something else; since we have met her there has been a strange figure following us; this person looks as if he is from Azimba. I am wondering if the two may be working together, but I do not know. However, I believe he was seen near to you during when Samir, Bjeorn and Talar were at the house of Abu Khafi – it is possible you may learn more of him there.”
”For now, I shall go in disguise in the town itself. Please do not share with anyone that I survived the dangers of the tombs – let them assume I am dead for now, so that I may conduct my business alone with relative safety,” she adds.
Tairin turns to Talar.”She indicated that she would meet us at the Yar-Ammonite necropolis in the region they call “Old Town”. According to her, there is an empty tomb near a faceless black sphinx. She is supposed to meet with us some time after sundown tomorrow, or later this night, depending on the time,” she adds the last, then stretches a bit, clearly tired from the long day.
Patenemheb nods.
"You shall be as the honoured dead in both our words and the lack of the same, Tairin. And the Azimban is a potential link in the chain of this mystery - or one unto himself."
He asks the room:
"If any require surgery or ministrations, I am more than happy to provide, so we are clear."
He glances at Yasala when he says this.
At this, Yasala perks up. "I still will do my investigating tomorrow, but perhaps while the rest of you are focusing on the unknown woman I will focus on this man you speak of. I was pretty involved in business ... and other things ... in my native Azimba before I traveled north. I might have a better chance of identifying this man or understanding why he is here."
"Yasala, I agree that you are the best suited to tracking your apparent countryman. Do you require any other assistance or resources from us before you venture on this hunt?"
"Yasala, I agree that you are the best suited to tracking your apparent countryman. Do you require any other assistance or resources from us before you venture on this...
"Any information you already have, for example where he's been seen or what he's been doing, would be useful. If we don't have enough information I will just make careful inquiries among citizens and city officials and move from there."
Bjoern looks at the scimitar and the sheath and shrugs.
"I have heard of a very brutal fighting style using two long blades. But I think I am content with my iron and for worse cases my gladius. I am not really interested in it!"
Looking at her companions settled around her, Tairin smiled and reached for the magical scimitar and the ivory scabbard. "I will take both for my personal use. I am certain they will be most useful as I uncover information around town while you search for the woman. I am quite capable with such a weapon."
During each day for as long as it takes, Tairin will retire to the library (she has the only key to gain entrance; giving the estate staff instructions not to disturb her unless there was some necessity and not to permit anyone in that she hasn't invited since the rest if the party will be out searching for Sabiha) and will begin to decipher the scrolls, hoping to use the tomes/scrolls within the estate's vast library to aid her in the endeavour. Sabra will be in the room with her; seated on a comfy cushion where she can rest and continue to recuperate.
First, Tairin will have to do a search of the library for any relevant books/scrolls/crypto keys etc. If needs be, she can cast Detect Magic & Read Magic for any magical scrolls and alike which may be useful.
During the time deciphering the non-magical scrolls, Tairin will take 20 on Linguistics for a total of 26 to see if she can break the code/s.
If Tairin requires more scholarly and educated knowledge than she possesses (and while Paten is away helping the rest of the party), Tairin will send a runner from her household staff to Priestess Jelah to help with breaking the code. She may even ask Samir to help her if he is free by searching the town for any books or asking discreet questions of knowledgeable people.
In the evenings, Tairin will disguise herself since the story will be told that she perished out in the deserts and discreetly make her way to the temple to speak to jelah about the Moon temple, Khonshu, the fell creature which had attacked them - which came from beyond through the hole in the floor - hoping to learn more about such beasts and darkness.
If Tairin's muscles get sore from spending long hours deciphering the scrolls, then during the evenings she may also partake in a hot bath and oil massage inside Jelah's temple.
==
During dinnertime, she will confer with Samir and/or Farrokh on their respective activities during the day - seeing how much Farrokh makes on the sale of the trained mounts and gear and what Samir is uncovering in the city. If Samir wants to accompany Tairin (following at a distance) in the evenings when she visits the temple, Tairin will be fine with it. Tairin is fine to bath naked before Samir as well because she is comfortable in her own skin and doesn't mind him there when she speaks of Jelah.
If there is time, Tairin might also try to uncover more information (discreetly) on the Yar-Ammonite priest, Thoth-Apep. The bodies of the dead cultists will have been discovered and Tairin will use her Rumor Empathy (taking 8 hours) spreading positive rumors about her and her party around town to coubteract any suspicions Priest Thoth-Apep may have in regard to her and the party via his spies/acolytes in town.
If she has time still, then Tairin will try to discover Sabra's true form and abilities by speaking with her kitten via their mind link talk and researching the estate library.
Dressing in an appropriate courtier's outfit and donning the jewelry she had already purchased for the city , she heads out into the city. She makes her way towards the house of Abu Khafi where her target has been known to be seen, but does not approach the residence directly. Instead she spends time moving from shop to shop, taking a drink in all of the nearby taverns and public houses, and strikes up conversations with any friendly looking guards or officials. She chats pleasantly with anyone she meets, professing to be a local who has heard that some of her fellow Azimbananas might have been seen in town, and that she would like to meet with them to have a drink and discuss the old country. Until she has heard enough rumors or gained enough information she will not attempt to actually make contact with the man himself.
**Additional modifiers based on target:
..+2 Bluff vs Civilized (favored enemy)
..+4 Bluff vs Decadent (favored enemy)
..+2 Diplomacy vs any city officials or guards (book of letters)
"Yasala, I agree that you are the best suited to tracking your apparent countryman. Do you require any other assistance or resources from us before you venture on this?"
Despite your gear and garb, it is certainly clear that you are a woman and the men who are speaking with you seem delighted to enjoy your company; your exotic appearance draws their attention - however, you quickly ascertain that they are more interested in attempting to bed you rather than provide you with anything helpful at this time.
The men you encounter seem somewhat confused via your comments about being a local, given that Azimba is far south of Yar-Ammon and even Zadj. There are few people in this land that have your features, and those who do are easily recognized as unique.
With that in mind, you have heard of a Shoma barbarian who has acted as a bodyguard to travelers who came from Susrah and have taken up residence of the dark sorcerer Zheng-Ya.
Some folk have heard of a man that frequents near the House of Abu Khafi, an Azimban with heavily burned skin on his scalp and cruel, green eyes. He is often seen with the Jairanian whore that some claim to be a thief while others have said she is an assassin.
This man seen with Jairanian is both intimidating and very dangerous looking; most folk stay clear of him, and when they find you are interested in finding out more about him they advise you to keep your distance.
The Jairanian has often been seen at Abu Khafi's house with various minor nobles; she is reputed to be a something akin to a high end escort, perhaps.
Toward the end of your search you meet a Yar-Ammonite Acolyte at one of the bars who finds you interesting and is interested in pursuing more entertainment with you at Abu Khafi's residence; apparently he has a minor connection there and is willing to enjoy some milk of the poppy with you, if you are interested.
[dice=Knowledge(geography as recommended)]1d20+4
[dice=Knowledge(local) to learn about Jairanian w/ Blue Book and City Map]1d20+8+2+2
Azimbans don't have green eyes; however, their neighbors do.
To the east of Azimba is a land populated by people very similar to the Azimba folk; it is said their eyes are green because of some of the dark and perverse practices they engage in with their hideous rites of worship. These people are known as the Ikuna.
You certainly have heard of the Ikuna, as their people have waged war on both your nation and the nation of Zadj, to steal your peoples and use them in their bloody sacrifices.
It would be easy to tell people you were Azimban if you were an IKuna; only people who know those lands well would know that your eyes were an issue, and that's not a detail that could be spotted from a distance. You suspect that as both Azimba and the Ikuna people are so far south of your land that this person is likely telling people he is from Azimba and, given that people in this land don't know your people very well, no one knows the difference.
Generally high-end escorts are not typically thieves and assassins.
You are not sure, but the fact that this woman is meeting with nobles suggests she has connections; the fact that she has a darker reputation is mysterious and somewhat suspicious to you.
You have heard one of the people mention her name is Sabiha.
You vaguely recall that Tairin mentioned that your new allies were hired to find and kill Osan by a woman named Sabiha.
You suspect this is not a coincidence, but you don't have enough information about this connection yet; but you do hear that the mysterious "Azimba" man with the green eyes is often seen with her at the house of Abu Khafi.
Toward the end of your search you meet a Yar-Ammonite Acolyte at one of the bars who finds you interesting and is interested in pursuing more entertainment with you at Abu Khafi's residence; apparently he has a minor connection there and is willing to enjoy some milk of the poppy with you, if you are interested.
Yasala smiles at the man and sidles up next him, her hand on his arm. "I would greatly enjoy spending some time with you at Abu Khafi's, but I have an engagement this evening that I cannot abandon. Will you be here tomorrow so that we can see each other again?"
Yasala smiles at the man and sidles up next him, her hand on his arm. "I would greatly enjoy spending some time with you at Abu Khafi's, but I have an engagement this evening that I cannot abandon. Will you be here tomorrow so that we can see each other again?"
Bluff to convince him she is interested w/ Blue Book: 1d20 + 9 + 2 ⇒ (20) + 9 + 2 = 31
Diplomacy to convince him to return tomorrow: 1d20 + 5 + 2 ⇒ (17) + 5 + 2 = 24
The man seems to be put off, but not overly concerned, being more interested in getting more of the milk of the poppy at Abu Khafi's.
"Tonight - tomorrow, all the same, little flower," he says with a roguish smile.
"If we are fated to meet next day then I shall surely enjoy your company. You shall find me at this tavern if you look for me, no doubt - if the gods will it," he adds with a hearty clap of his hand on your backside as he then lifts his arm and gives a wide wave of his arm before wandering off.
Bjoern nods to the man and to the others.
"I for one would like to return home. I need a good nights sleep and a lot to eat!"
Bjoern nods to the man and to the others.
"I for one would like to return home. I need a good nights sleep and a lot to eat!"
Yasala grins impetuously back at the man as she takes her leave.
I almost wish he would follow me. The pig needs a lesson about who he can and cannot smack on the backside
She returns to the rest of the group to relax.
"Paten, it slipped my mind this morning but I was wondering if you could take a look at my wounds before I head to bed tonight? They are doing much better but I have not fully recovered from the excitement at the temple."
Over a late dinner, she informs the rest what she has found. "Although it was hard to mask myself as a resident due to my obvious foreign heritage, I did manage to convince people that I was at least familiar with the city and got some information. The things pertinent to our situation relate to a dark skinned man and a Jainarian woman.
He is not actually from Azimba. People seem to think so, and he might be professing to be, but the description I continued to get makes him an Ikuna. They are a violent and evil nation who preys on my people to obtain bodies for sacrifice. I wouldn't mind facing him over a sword just for propriety's sake. He often is seen with the Jainarian woman, although I'm not sure if he is a bodyguard or a co-conspirator.
The Jairanian woman is just as much of a mystery. Some profess she is an escort, some think she is a thief, and some say she is an assassin. In any case, she is often at Abu Khafi's house with different minor nobles which means that whatever her profession might be, she has some kind of connections. At least one person referred to her as Sabiha, so it seems that she is the one that hired you."
Yasala finishes her meal and leans forward, her eyes flashing with anger as she speaks of the Yar-Ammonite she ended the day with. "In any case, I have made the acquaintance of a pigdog who has invited me to join him at Abu Khafi's for some entertainment. He seems only interested in one thing, but I might be able to ply him for more information if I wait until he has drank and drugged enough, and he can get me inside to get a better idea of the other two.
I don't like doing business that way, I would rather stick my sword in him than have him think he can stick anything in me, but the possibility for more information is there."
Earlier in the day, Patenemeheb brings up the matter of wounds.
"Bjoern, Talar. Whatever your plans for the day, I will attend to your injuries."
Unless the pair strenuously object to his ministrations, Patenemheb will examine, clean, and bind their wounds to ensure that they heal swiftly.
With a Heal skill check (DC 15) that takes 1d6 minutes to perform, a character may provide short-term care for a wounded creature, restoring a number of hit points equal to 3 + character level + Constitution bonus. A creature can only benefit from such care once per day.
"If ye rest today, I can continue my ministrations. Regardless, I would replace my ruined silken armour today at some point."
Medical Expert
Prerequisite: Wis 13, Heal 1 rank
Benefit: When you use the Heal skill to treat deadly wounds, you may add ½ your ranks in Heal to the amount of damage healed. Patients who rest fully gain the benefits of two days of treatment for every day spent under your care.
*********************************************************************
After Yasala returns, Patenemheb nods.
"But of course, Yasala. I shall attend to your wounds straight away."
He listens carefully to the Azimban's words.
"An Ikunan? I have heard something of their ilk."
He ponders...
"It is not a wholesome affair but you have done well thus far to gather such information, Yasala. It is gratifying to have a solid lead on she who would have used us as pawns. You could lead your new acquaintance to a dark alley, where we could jointly gather information from him. How painfully would be up to him."
"Upon reflection, I will require the aid of Farrokh or Yasala in order to find appropriate quality armour. If it is even to be found here. It is not a matter of grave urgency."
At this time the party has considered their options and listens to the information collected by Yasala.
During the dinner Farrokh does indeed return, his face is grave and troubled.
"My lord, there are disturbing details I feel I must report."
He rubs his thick beard nervously and then glances around at your companions and shrugs.
"A man came into town at roughly the seventh hour this morning; he bore with him a collection of camels and horses and sold them even while we slept and rested. This is unusual as the group of beasts he were all war trained, even as the mounts we collected."
"It seems this man may have left the city and found the beasts we abandoned and then returned to the city after collecting them and sold them shortly after the gates were opened. Yet for him to do that would suggest he had known of the beasts and spent the night collecting them and then brought them back to the town this very night."
"Surely the cultists would not do this thing, but take the beasts back to their lair? Or, failing that, we should have seen more than one individual selling them?"
He shakes his head and pulls aside his eye patch and rubs the scarred socket of his missing eye then replaces the eye patch.
"There was a flurry of activity in the Yar-Ammonite section shortly after noon. Messengers were sent to the Bey and armed guards returned to that quarter and have been positioned at the streets which lead to the august temple of their folk," he adds the last somewhat sardonically.
"I wonder if they are concerned for the lot of their followers at the dig to the east? But I do not know; surely their priest would realize that naked steel is little match against sorcery."
He glances around the room with a frown.
"I know that your mistress is currently on private business, but where is that crafty Nabastisian," he mutters, clearly alluding to Samir.
"I apologize, my lord, but I do not wholly trust him."
"Yesterday while we did business he left our company, as you recall. Yet when we met again I marked his gear, as you did, no doubt."
"His blade was new; the hilt ivory with a golden pommel - and his armor was a fine quality, almost masterwork in nature. I deem he is a dangerous man, but I wonder where he gets such resources to arm and garb himself."
"However, as the company felt such accouterments were not worth mentioning, I myself did not choose to expostulate upon them," he adds with a shake of his head then sighs.
"We have a short while to meet with this woman tonight; what are your plans for the rest of this evening before nightfall?" he asks.
"An Ikunan? I have heard something of their ilk."
He ponders...
Knowledge Local on the Ikunan people: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (17) + 10 = 27
Knowledge History on the history of the Ikunans and their relations with others: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23
Knowledge Nobility on prominent Ikunan nobility - if there is such a class: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (2) + 10 = 12
Knowledge Religion on the religion of the Ikunans: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (8) + 10 = 18
Ikuna People: You have quite a bit of knowledge on them already (mainly from the Campaign Page and game book - I'd give you more details on them in a general way, but the source material doesn't have much more than I've already put up on the Campaign page, unfortunately). It is true that some of them leave their community and sell themselves as out as mercenaries or warriors to those who can afford them; it is likely the man you heard of may be like that.
History: There was war between Ikuna and Azimba; they seem similar in culture and appearance, but for the fact that the Ikuna have green eyes. It is rumored that in earlier years Azimba folk spread to where the Ikuna now live and - due to the terrain, sorcery or some other reason, began to regress into a type of vile offshoot of the Azimba people.
Nobility: Chiefs are noted for their strength in battle and priests noted for the connection with dark gods/demons. Both rule somewhat jointly, but it is known that the one who can do the most damage or be the most dangerous is often the leader despite what titles say (thus; bloodlines, wisdom, experience - these don't matter as much as who is the most dangerous).
Religion: Difficult to say; they are rumored to worship many dark and foul gods. Some suggest that where ever they end up they will find the darkest demon and apprentice themselves to that being; others suggest that they have green eyes due to their worship of Zanthiss the serpent god. Other suggest they follow Yibboth or even Al-Tawir... but nothing is certain unless you have lived among them and seen their dark idols - but even then, rumor has it that the relics are so warped with age and violence that the origins of the gods they follow are not recognized by civilized men.
Earlier
Patenemheb ensures that Bjoern and Talar recover swiftly from their savage injuries.
Provide Long-Term Care
Providing long-term care means treating a wounded person for a day or more. If your Heal check is successful, the patient recovers hit points or ability score points (lost to ability damage) at twice the normal rate: 2 hit points per level for a full 8 hours of rest in a day, or 4 hit points per level for each full day of complete rest; 2 ability score points for a full 8 hours of rest in a day, or 4 ability score points for each full day of complete rest.
You can tend as many as six patients at a time. You need a few items and supplies (bandages, salves, and so on) that are easy to come by in settled lands. Giving long-term care counts as light activity for the healer. You cannot give long-term care to yourself.
Action/Time: 8 hours.
Retry? Varies. Generally speaking, you can’t try a Heal check again without witnessing proof of the original check’s failure.
Natural Healing: With a full night’s rest (8 hours of sleep or more), a character recovers 3 + character level + Constitution bonus hit points. Any significant interruption during the character’s rest prevents the character from healing that night. If the character undergoes complete bed rest for an entire day and night, he/she recovers twice the normal amount.
Medical Expert
Prerequisite: Wis 13, Heal 1 rankBenefit: When you use the Heal skill to treat deadly wounds, you may add ½ your ranks in Heal to the amount of damage healed. Patients who rest fully gain the benefits of two days of treatment for every day spent under your care.
**********************************************************
Now
"My lord, there are disturbing details I feel I must report." ...
Patenemeheb listens, then nods ever so slightly.
"Fine work, Farrokh. Your answers raise additional questions."
"First of all, was there any indication as to the people of the seller of war camels? Or of their affiliation?"
The scholar turns to the others.
"Second, what is the nature of the connection between the Ikunan and Sabiha? Is he is a mercenary, like many of his kin who wander? Or something else?"
His eyes look around.
"Third, what are the identities of the nobles whom the Yadarites worked with?"
"Fourth, how much the Yar-Ammonites know of the extent of this cult of Yadar?"
He pauses.
"And fifth, what exactly Samir is up to and what his motivations are?"
"I believe that we should make discreet inquiries about the nobility of the city. To also make contact with people of the Kingdom, and warn them of both the cult's activities and of the state of the tomb. I also believe that we need to query Samir on his night-time activities."