Zephyr waited, very anxiously, for the arrival of his first guest, Zathra, who he believed had come to Katheer earlier in the day, and would be at the gates of his father’s palace any moment. He knew how taxing it was for his mother to communicate across the planes, and yet, she shared the same excitement with him as she worked to assemble an exceptional team for him to work with in the tournament in Goka. She was exceptionally pleased that Zathra acted so quickly to join him in Qadira, as some of the others seemed like they might need more convincing.
WHOA. This girl is beautiful.
You might have said something ... Mother.
Women of station did NOT travel alone in Katheer, but the power sliding off this young lady was palpable. He knew nothing of her, really, but as he moved out to the front of the palace to greet her, he doubted she ever experienced problems in Osirion society; who would risk it?
“Lady Zathra! On behalf of my father, Amir Lutharr santek Anwarr, I welcome you to his summer palace in Katheer. I believe that my mother already expressed their regrets that they could not join us this morning, but they also extend a warm welcome and immense gratitude that you accepted their hospitality so readily. I am Zephyr amir, it is a great pleasure to greet you.”
Zathra favors Zephyr with a dazzling smile. "I share in your pleasure, good sir. The journey from Sothis was long, but I am happy to find a handsome man waiting for me at the end of it."
The Osirian woman removes her traveling cloak and hands it to a nearby servant. The silk clothes she wears beneath the cloak are rather revealing, a halter style wrap and a short skirt that show off swaths of smooth skin, burnished bronze by the desert sun. Several enchanted hieroglyphs are emblazoned along the cloth. She is lithe but hardy--it is clear she is in excellent physical health.
"My thanks to you and your family for the invitation and opportunity. I am eager to assemble our team and begin training for the Ruby Phoenix Tournament."
**Much later... at the gates of Gorka? Somewhere in Southern Tian Xia anyway**
Ryushi a somewhat taller than average man from Tian min, well armed with a long curved blade, two straight short ones, and a longbow, and armoured, though not very heavily, stroked his stubble. Looking at the four Garundis, with a bit of wariness but also relief at the dreams he had been having coming true.
It is good to know that I mm not going mad he remarks in Tien hoping the others would understand But... there are other questions.. the messages was a bit confused as to why I was to meet the four of you here. He gives a short bow, recognizing the others as capable adventurers, a match for himself.
I travelled a fairly long way to get here, though it seems like not as long as the four of you?
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Katheer, also known as "Glorious Golden Katheer" is the most marvelous city on Golarion, Master Lazarus. She will welcome you as either a long returned lover; or, as a stilted mistress that you may have brushed off.
The greasy sailor smiles; his few yellowed teeth a stark contrast to his red gums.
The tall Vudrani man nods in an absent way that anyone not the same sailor would notice to be a bit dismissive.
I have traveled The Golden Path personally. I definitely recall the welcoming ambience of the city.
The Roaring Whale deftly piloted into the ports of the great Qadiran city. Sailors (including the most recent visitation) scrambled about the ship, making the trip in smooth and gentle.
Lazarus nods in approval of their efficiency; if not their cleanliness. The Seeker for the Pathfinder Society then returns his gaze to the bustling harbor creeping closer and closer.
Absently reaching into his belt pouch, the tall, obvious Irori inspired human male takes out a beautifully wood carved box. The intricate designs denote the sigil of Amir Lutharr santek Anwarr. Lifting the delicate lid, he carefully removes the letter received from the Palace.
Irori works in mysterious ways.
Lazarus smiles, as he awaits the docking, and his reaching the Palace of Amir Lutharr santek Anwarr.
"maybe mom was wrong, this guy doesn't look like the wizard she said she knew ... weird"
"Master Lazarus!!! Welcome! On behalf of my father, Amir Lutharr santek Anwarr, I welcome you to his summer palace. Both he & my mother wished that they could attend you as well, and yet for many reasons, that is not possible. Please, let our attendants take your things, and come join me with Lady Zathra. She arrived this morning and I know looks forward to spending time with you also."
Zephyr amir looked young, fashionable if revealingly clad, but menacing in a way his charm did not quite erase as well. Planetouched. That was part of it for sure.
"Please let either myself or the staff know that you need anything; your rooms are enchanted, you will be comfortable there no matter what, but if you feel overdressed for the city, both Zathra & I can help you wear less. Comfort in the desert can be tricky."
**Much later... at the gates of Gorka? Somewhere in Southern Tian Xia anyway**
Ryushi a somewhat taller than average man from Tian min, well armed with a long curved blade, two straight short ones, and a longbow, and armoured, though not very heavily, stroked his stubble. Looking at the four Garundis, with a bit of wariness but also relief at the dreams he had been having coming true.
It is good to know that I mm not going mad he remarks in Tien hoping the others would understand But... there are other questions.. the messages was a bit confused as to why I was to meet the four of you here. He gives a short bow, recognizing the others as capable adventurers, a match for himself.
I travelled a fairly long way to get here, though it seems like not as long as the four of you?
Zephyr beckons to a Varisian gentleman who appears to be in charge of everyone else in the palace
"Alfred, would you please leave a message by the scrying pool for my mother? Ask her if she might update Lord Ukagi on our gathering here at the palace and upcoming arrival in Tian. I want to make sure he knows we will arrive with all due haste."
"Very good young sir, as you wish."
The harrower had been in father's service for quite some time; I wish the whole palace could come to Tian Min
Having shuffeld off the boat with some of the others. A young man, dressed lightly, having trailed off behind, taking in the sights and sounds he arrives momentarily later.
"Howdy, and excuse me as well. According to the others a job offer has been extended to us. One that aligns with our respective goals I'm told. I'm Malik Zell, I'm an archivist working on a series of manuals for living in the world." Offering his hand to those who follow such customs.
Zell's attire is reasonable for the weather, further he seems to have far too little luggage for someone who has been traveling so far in distance and time. A simple side satchel, purple in colour, seems to be the only baggage he carries. Attached to the side is a small tool kit.
Upon shaking his hand, a faint smell of medicine and spices tingles the nose.
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Dressed in white; bronze breastplate with the Open blue palm symbolized all over it, Lazarus' blue eyes smile as he is introduced to his host and other guests.
Bowing low, the Vudrani greets them.
Salutations, my new companions in a most excellent trial of endurance, might, and cunning. Irori's blessing upon your House, Zephyr amir. I am Lazarus; called the Undying. I shall recount that telling during our long journey to Goka. It is my honor to make your acquaintance.
The tall Vudrani then takes the hand of Zathra.
Namaste and Blessings to your ancestors, Miss Zathra. I look forward to this magnificent undertaking; afforded to us by our gracious benefactor.
Lazarus turns to look at the latest arrival. The Scholar doesn't quite fit the Arena mold; but, as the Perfect Human teaches; knowledge is power.
He turns to bow a greeting to Zell.
Welcome, friend Zell. Your inclusion in this venture is the precise thing that our opponents will not expect.
Lazarus then welcomes any feasting, drinking, and theological discussions that is presented before the begin their journey to Goka.
"Mm.. I dont hit hard. But I like to think I'm full of surprises. Also cooking. and the food here smells delicious." Zell returns the greetings with a business smile.
"Welcome to both of you, Lazarus and Malik," Zathra says with a smile. "Blessings to both of you, as well. I believe with our complementary talents, we will be a force to be reckoned with in the upcoming tournament!"
She turns to Zephyr. "Food does sound like a splendid idea, doesn't it? I trust your staff has prepared a sumptuous dinner for us to partake in."
Zephyr smiles, "You might imagine I wish I lived here all the time. The staff has indeed prepared a sampling of dishes that represent all of Quadira in fact, it will be a marvel. Please follow me ..."
The breeze around the young man surges as he walks you down the hall to an enormous dining room
There are back tables where a number of dishes are set out, and another with beverages, notable are wines from Andorran and Kyonin, as well as rice wines from their destination.
"Let me be honest, I am excited to have you all here, and I plan to celebrate! He selects an Andorran red and moves to the head of the table "I have every intension of moving into the saki from Goka as our meal begins; certainly need to be prepared for the local fare when we arrive, right?"
"A wise strategy," Zathra says as she helps herself to some spiced cider and finds her seat.
"I really do appreciate each of you having been so responsive to my family having reached out to you. While I was pleased that they were so supportive of my desire to enter, I never dreamed they would push the boundaries this way. My mother finding each of you, communicating across the planes, using father's network of agents ... I am very very capable to be sure, but this was beyond the pale"
The air around him seems to laugh with him
"I have to believe Mother didn't select anyone afraid of heights ..."
"Even now I know she is informing Master Ryu that one of her students will teleport him to us enroute, that we might all arrive together; make our grand entrance as it were."
He laughs again
"Magic in the morning can be SO refreshing; I had thought we might meet in the courtyard before dawn, and then fly up above the city to see the most spectacular sunrise on Golarion. From there, we will be able to see the airship as it arrives to speed us on our journey."
Zephyr clearly finds it hard to look at Zathra, yet somewhat harder to look away.
In a moment while his other guests are getting beverages, Alfred approaches ...
"Young master, it may be that no one has shared this with you during your tutoring, but relationships, unlike genies, are not actually conjured."
Zephyr looks at the butler and raises an eyebrow, "Go ahead ... say the rest ... I know it's coming."
"Quite right sir. Ask the girl if she wants to see the city with you. Ask her if she wants to see the gem of Qadira sparkle in the night sky. She does want to by the way ... but as brash as she may seem, she is waiting for you to ask. GO!"
Zathra meanwhile seems oblivious to Zephyr's interest. She eats, drinks, and makes small talk with the other guests. Occasionally, though, she cocks her head as if listening to some unheard voice or looks over somebody's shoulder as if something is there that only she can see.
Zephyr finishes his wine, and waits until Zathra is getting another drink to walk over by the table with her.
"Lady Zathra, are you having a good time this evening? I hope so. The process of starting to get the team together has been exciting I think."
He looks into her eyes, somewhat bashfully, and smiles
"I know that Sothis is very beautiful from what I have seen, although I have not been there myself, but I wondered if you might like to see Katheer at night. She is very beautiful from above ... and you feel like someone who knows the skies from experience. I am happy to cast for us, I have a fair amount of spell power left from my studies this morning. Would you like to take a flight with me after dinner?"
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”Yes, this has been a fine party,” Zathra says with a smile.
”An aerial tour sounds lovely! I trace my ancestry back to the Shory people, who were famous aeromancers. I can draw on the magic of my blood to fly for a few minutes each day, but I will need to rely on your spells for a longer flight. But at any rate, it would be my pleasure to join you.”
Off to the side of this bubble of personality occuring. Young Malik has a small bound sheet of notes forming a booklet next to his meal. As he tastes piece by piece the meal, writing several notes and mentioning names of spices, or unidentified foods. Guessing recipes for later replication.
Notable, the alchol around Zell remains untouched. Unable to follow the eloquence of the conversation that remaind ongoing Malik simply states. "If you can fly. Save a bit for the falling. Flight is a fight against the world itself. It can never remain forever." Letting slip that flight makes the man nerviouos.
Off to the side of this bubble of personality occuring. Young Malik has a small bound sheet of notes forming a booklet next to his meal. As he tastes piece by piece the meal, writing several notes and mentioning names of spices, or unidentified foods. Guessing recipes for later replication.
Notable, the alchol around Zell remains untouched. Unable to follow the eloquence of the conversation that remaind ongoing Malik simply states. "If you can fly. Save a bit for the falling. Flight is a fight against the world itself. It can never remain forever." Letting slip that flight makes the man nerviouos.
"Spoken like a flier Master Malik; smart thinking! You are absolutely correct, that is part of why Zathra already mentioned maintaining her reserve ... we will have you flying yet."
Zeph looks a little panicked that Malik isn't drinking, but does seem to be eating ...
"You cook! That's why you are writing while you eat! Do you need anything from the kitchen before we leave? Do you want to meet with the staff? We could totally arrange that."
Zephyr walks away from Malik to check on Lazarus ...
"Master Lazarus, I meant to ask you earlier; is there anything you need or want from the city? Even later in the evening, the staff may be able to find it, and most merchants are very willing to come to the palace if we ask them."
Zeph smiles at the Vudrani, really quite a bit different than his mother had characterized.
"It's a long journey ahead, I hope that you can share with us more of Vudra. I hope when we are done with this great endeavor that I can travel there as well. Have you decided if you will be returning there?
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Lazarus takes a seat on some cushions (after placing them on the floor), as the Vudrani listens to their host expounding upon the virtues of Katheer.
The Warrior-Monk politely eats the delicious fare presented to them, freely sipping a goblet of Thandai.
Master Zephyr, I find your staff most prepared for our arrival. This takes me back home with a melancholy, but refreshingly deserved remembrance of my former life's time in Vudra.
He lifts his goblet in the air; nodding at each of his new companions.
I understand that, perhaps, this form was not the one that you were promised. I shall present that story once our Team is united.
He winks at them.
But, as I have Home swimming ceaselessly around this fish bowl of mine, I would like to tell you a story of The Impossible Kingdom of Vudra.
As those present gather about the Warrior-Monk, Lazarus allows for everyone to become comfortable in their own allowances; although, the Vudrani does smiles at Zell, busily writing in his journal.
Archivist Zell, while, I am also most intrigued with all things; knowledge being power, I do believe that even The Perfect Human took a few moments to also enjoy those things.
Lazarus then begins speaking almost to himself, as if he was remembering; rather than, retelling a tale....
The history of Vudra, and of Golarion as a whole, is told in the Mizravratta Brahmodya, dictated to the sage Balazastar by the goddess Likha. According to this account, as the goddess Vudravati walked across Golarion, she was courted by twin brothers Obari and Embaral. Though she took both as lovers, they fought so fiercely out of jealousy that Vudravati feared they would kill each other and wreak havoc across the world. To separate them until they could reconcile, she lay between them and went to sleep, her body forming the land of Vudra. She birthed children of both Obari and Embaral while in this slumber, who are believed to be the Vudrani peoples of today.
Lazarus seems to have trailed off at the end, as if seeing the peoples of the story, as lost friends. His blue eyes are damp with budding tears; but, they seem both painful and joyful; as memories of lost loved ones can be.
The Vudrani's wet blue eyes meet Archivist Zell, Zephyr, and Zathra with a promise of a bond to come that would be forged in the burning fires of competition, commitment, courage!
There was a stillness in the room after the beautiful story unfolded, as though a calm had come over even Zephyr.
"Master Lazarus ... something tells me this will be an extraordinary journey."
Zephyr smiles his winsome smile at the guests
"If I could take my leave of everyone, I need to go to my office for a moment. I have promised the sky to our esteemed guest from Osirion, and I would like to make that happen for her as soon as possible. Please feel free to remain here in the dining room as long as you would like; Lady Zathra, I will join you in the courtyard, I need but a few minutes."
Zeph walks over to Alfred, and exits the room with him ...
Alfred is first to the courtyard, he has a beautifully embroidered cloak over his arm. Zephyr joins him, and he appears significantly more ‘covered’ than he had been previously, as though his cloak had grown around him. They waited only a few moments for Zathra to exit the dining room and join them.
Alfred bowed slightly to Zathra, ”Lady, perhaps you would borrow this cover for your flight? It is certainly cooler in the sky above Katheer than it is here at the palace.” He hands the cloak to Zathra and excuses himself.
Zephyr smiles, ”Well here we are … ready to make the magic happen!?”
Smiling again, the power starts to build in the sorcerer.
Zephyr faces Zathra and begins to cast a Heightened Fly spell @ 6th level. He wants them to be able to fly above the city for 30 minutes or so, but not have to rush back to the palace for any reason. This will allow them time to observe the city from the Great Market all the way to the port. He completes two castings.
”Ready!?!?”
Zathra thanks Zephyr for the cloak, wrapping it tightly around her body. "I am ready. Let us take to the skies!" She offers her hand to the sorcerer as the magic lifts her off of the ground!
Zephyr takes Zathra's hand, and they ascend, smiling.
"It is but a short distance to the Grand Palace, which we should stay well above but it is worth seeing. From there, we can head directly south to the river, and fly lower along the banks to see the riverfront; the buildings are remarkable. When we get to the port, which should be quiet, we can turn north again for a flyover of The Grand Market, which is busy well into the night."
Zephyr gently squeezes her hand ...
... and if your hand stays in mine, I can direct both of us."
The Port of Katheer is a mile-long stretch of coastline,
piers, and makeshift docks, capable of accommodating all
manner of vessels. White-sailed dhows patrol the harbor,
allowing known ships through and obstructing those
that are prohibited by the satrap. Slaves and laborers work
tirelessly to unload the multitude of ships, load them up
with new cargo, and send them on their way.
To the immediate north of the port, so near that the two
are virtually indistinguishable, lies the Great Market of
Katheer. The only discernable difference is that in the
market permanent buildings stand side by side with the
merchant stalls rather than being a chaotic mess of tents,
overturned carts, and hawking children.
https://tinyurl.com/KATHEER1
https://tinyurl.com/KATHEER2
The flight around the city is a wonderful time for Zathra & Zephyr.
For Zephyr though, it was also a farewell.
He knew he would return a very different person, and he felt he owed a lot to the city.
They circled back to the palace, and Zephyr very slowly descended them into the courtyard.
"Lady Zathra, on a different evening before a different morning, I might have landed us in my apartments which are open to the sky as well."
"For now though, I think it's more appropriate for me to say goodnight to you here."
Zathra squeezes back, her eyes wide with wonder as the pair soar above the city. ”Incredible!” she says, taking in the sights and sounds of Katheer below them.
When the tour is complete and they land in the courtyard, she turns around to face Zephyr. ”You certainly give a good tour, my friend. When the tournament is done, perhaps we could fly around Sothis together. We could picnic atop the shell of Festering Ulunat!” She giggles and brushes a few stray braids out of her face.
”Goodnight, Zephyr. I will see you in the morning.”
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The Burning Sun crosses the vast desert that surrounds the lands of Katheer. The early morning dawn begins its daily routine of refreshing the winds, as they traverse the rising heat waves to the bright blue vastness of the skies.
The Patronages of the Amir wake, performing their individual morning routines, meet for a quick, light breakfast before being led to a testament to technology and magic: An Airship of surpassing eloquence and performance.
Written just below the bow of the ship is written: Endless Sky
With all the amenities, comforts, and space available to them, the newly forming team travels the blue skies over the desert down below; across the mountains, reaching above the clouds; and, even, mirroring the blue seas below with the bluest of skies above.
After what only seemed a few pleasantly spent, relaxing days; The Endless Sky crosses into the skies of Tian Xia.
The arrangements made already; at the preordained hour; the Warpriest of Shizuru, Ukagi, Ryushi appears standing on the deck of The Endless Sky.
Lazarus approaches the Samurai, bows, and reaches out his hand.
Welcome to the Team.
"Honored of Shizuru, it is now my honour to welcome you. I know you have spoken with my mother more than all of us recently, and I am in debt to you for your patience: we are glad to finally be together. Both my father & mother extend their welcome and their regret to not be here themselves. I am Zephyr amir."
Zeph bows and extends his arms in the traditional Qadiran show of welcome and armistice.
"In the time we are here, please tell me or the staff if you need for anything."
Ryushi essays a short bow, as appropriate between equals and grasps the Vudran's forearms as well.
The message was intriguing and the magic is very wondrous. He addresses amir. As well as this method of transport. I thank all of you for the opportunity to compete.
Ryushi storkes his stubble in a thoughtful manner and then looks out over the entrance to Gorka. Though I must ask... why do you all wish to compete?
"A pleasure to meet you at last, Ryushi-san," Zathra says in fluent Tien, mimicking the warpriest's bow. "I cannot speak for the rest of the team, but my desire to win the tournament is for the sake of my companion."
The Osirian woman closes her eyes in concentration, and a sigil begins to glow blue on her forehead. A few moments later, there is a rush of wind that gathers and swirls beside her, coalescing into the form of a hulking humanoid spirit! The phantom's head resembles that of a hawk's, and it lets out a shriek as it flexes its muscles.
"Do not be alarmed. This is Tarik," Zathra says. "I happened upon him in the mausoleums of Wati, and now the two of us are linked. He is a spirit of anger and rage, but he does not deserve to be trapped in this world. I hope that among the treasures in Hao Jin's vault, there might be one that can release him to the final reward that has been unjustly denied him."
"Thank you for being so direct, Master Ryushi, It is appreciated."
"For my part, I am known as a champion of the people in Katheer, I help others with the gifts I have been given every chance I get. With this endeavor, I must say, gangsters and cheats seem as drawn to the Ruby Phoenix Tournament as piranhas to a bloody hippo, and I am dead set on making sure this tournament is as scandal-free as possible. That is hardly conjecture either. I will not speak for Master Lazarus, but my mother has alluded to issues during the last tournament, and to be honest, I hate to see fair fighters get knocked out by crooked contenders. I want to bring the Hammer of Justice down on all who fail to abide by the principle of good sportsmanship ... and if that means we end up being the Ruby Phoenix Champions, all the better.
Zephyr raises his glass in a silent tribute to the warpriest
As the others reveal little tidbits of their reasons, both seemingly lofty. "Well, those both sound kind and or ..noble I've got not such a lofty goal. I intend to see if they have the abilty to help fill out the more rare entities.. or perhaps write a forward to my series of books to help push their notoriaty and acceptance. This tournament and the prize were partly simply an excuse to come to a new land and study new creatures, or old creatures in new ecology."
Ryushi winces a bit at... something... Zephyr says but nevertheless he says. Hai, ahh, yes. I do not feel we are incompatible in this then. It should be, at least, a distraction and I do not feel Shizuru would object in me taking part with a test of arms. Please extend my deepest gratitude to your parents. I do not need much but would not say no to a cup of rice wine.
He looks around at the wondrous luxury of the airship and says carefully. And how do you train and of what are you all capable? I myself, though a mere unworthy servant of the Empress of Heaven, can channel some of her divine presence, have some knowledge of tactics, and am adequate with the katana.
Zephyr walks to the bar and pours a beatiful pale blue saki for the warpriest, pausing to chill it just a touch with flash from his eyes
"All my life, I have worked to cultivate the power in my blood, and one other good reason to be here is to push my limits. My bloodline brought a number of spells into my body of potential, but I studied a great deal also. In Katheer, I regularly took protection assignments, mostly of foreigners, and I was amazed how often people underestimate casters."He laughs just a touch
"Lightning serves as a fair reminder though, and many of my bloodline spells allow me to send electricity through my opponents. I have a great flexibility for aerial engagement & high altitude bombardment as well. My transformations, into mist or air elementals is also helpful."
"and truth be told, you cannot survive Katheer if you cannot haggle. While those who know my power tend to be intimidated, there are in fact others who only know my charm. Plus my parents gave me a Ring which allows me to seem a great deal less glib ..."
"Tarik handles most of my problems for me," Zathra says, gesturing to the eidolon. "But I do possess a modicum of occult magic to back him up."
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Lazarus nods to Ryushi's words. The Warrior-Monk then turns his blue eyed gaze out across the blue shies and pure white clouds, as they drift lazily by the Endless Sky.
After a few moments of silence, Lazarus then turns to all his new companions. He stands just over 6' tall. His body obviously a temple in honor to Irori. His steps measured, certain, and tactical. His manner speaks of a warrior, who is not confident because of his own deeds; but, because he has been granted His approval!
Lazarus ceases to walk the Deck about the company. He looks to each in turn, once again, nodding his head.
I was a Wizard; once. I was born in The Impossible Kingdom of Vudra in the year 300 AR.
He pauses for a full minute to allow his audience to process that bit.
He grins.
For the sake of brevity; I shall just tell you that; I have been Cursed by an arcane rival. I live. I die. I return to yet live again. I have been farmer, tailor, warrior and priest. I have sailed the deepest oceans, rode the swiftest winds, traversed the most barren of deserts. In all of my incarnations; I am not allowed to regain my arcane abilities. Magic has been denied me. I wish to win; so that I may use a Relic that will change that.
Lazarus then grins.
I am now a Warrior-Monk. And, Irori just loves a good competition!
Ryushi, accepts the cup with a bow and sips it in contemplation. Two people to protect so they can cast their spells and three protectors. Hai, yes. This does seem adequate. We shall take each other's true measures in battle.
"Hmm. Well I've certainly read about more insane things than that sir. Not entirely sure I'd believe it-Not that I need to. I'd love to interview you later on about the various lives. It would make for a good section on "Fantastical Fates and those beholden to them." That I plan to write after the first 6 booklets are finished." noting down on his agenda parchment notepad to bug Lazarus post competition.
" I Don't know if I'd count myself as a protector... Though I'm certainly a pest. I'm happy to supply tools of the trade to give us an edge. -but- Don't really expect me to charge into someone that often. I don't currently have a melee weapon other than kicking someone in a weakpoint. A snarkle ate my dagger shortly before the boat trip here.-My fault really, I left it on the table after cutting breakfast.- I am however happy to shoot someone in the leg, or lead them on a chase. I'm light on my feet. Well, I can also poison them. I've got a solid production of custom poisons." An empthy knife scabbared hangs inside his inner coat as he flashes it to the group.
"Master Ryushi, if you could pick part of Goka for us to see, what might it be? I feel as though I have had this vessel flying for me much much too long."
"The night before we got underway from Qadira, Lady Zathra & I toured Katheer from the sky, which for me was a blissful goodbye to my home. She even promised to return the favor in Sothis, which I cannot imagine. I thought maybe here, even briefly, you might tell us of the City from above."
"Everyone is invited of course."
Zeph raises his glass and an eyebrow, hoping Ukagi will be inclined to the after-dinner flight
Though closer than Garund... Gorka is still very far from my home in Tian Min. I am as much a stranger here as the rest of you. I apologize for my inadequate response. Ryushi shrugs It is a big city with many big city things The biggest in the the world they say though definitely in all of Tian. I have more experience of the hinterlands. I could be a reasonable guide to Kasai perhaps.
"Hardly inadequate sir: if we aren't ready to be honest with each other now, this may be a more difficult endeavor indeed. In that case, maybe we can explore a little after we disembark."
"Hardly inadequate sir: if we aren't ready to be honest with each other now, this may be a more difficult endeavor indeed. In that case, maybe we can explore a little after we disembark."
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Lazarus watches the sight of the bustling city of Goka down below them in the Endless Sky. The Warrior-Monk grins at the apparent edginess, readiness, patience of Zephyr and the others eager to begin their adventure here at The Fist of the Ruby Phoenix Tournament. Watching the clouds lazily float by them, Lazarus calls to his new companions.
Perhaps, we should explore the city. Find out where it is the competitors are to be called. I have heard that the Tournament has change some things this year. Would be good to get a jump on the new rules.
He then grins.
And, perhaps, we can scout the competition.
"This was my thought also. There is nothing wrong with scouting ... buying a few drinks to loosen tongues. Would be really helpful to get some of the bolder entrants to brag a little."
Throughout the journey Malik had been quiet. Partly from fear of the floating-and the potential for falling. He hadn't really had time to think too clearly about whats to come. Instead his mind flittered with all the creatures that could take a ship down, or simply sneak aboard the floating preserved fish pot and pluck a weary tired off into the darkness without any aware.
The land, he enjoyed. There were more people than he cared for, but it would always be so for a large city.
"Exploring may be nice. I do think we should have a discussion concerning how we want to approach things. Both in the pre-test and the tournament. For instance.. I'm a scholar, I'm not well versed in combat-I can get around well enough though. But I have multiple tools and I know how to customize things. Pray tell everyone. Over the course of the day please keep an eye out for useful things. I might be able to replicate similiarities. In particular-I'm handy with a some scrolls, talisman, simple alchemy. When we get together tonight we can make some basic parameters, or plans."
Taking a moment to pull a few items to view-A crumpled scroll from his pocket. Obviously crushed and clutched, stuffed into pockets, seemingly held often. Those wellversed in magic may note its usage-feather fall. Further a small pin crystal leaf on his lapel-A snap leaf.
"I think I should see if they have some scrolls I can find here. While I can manage quite a lot-what I don't have is a large supply. Any suggestions?"
"Master Zell, did you need ink & parchment? I believe the captain has quite a supply, one of their main tasks is to forward communications & dispatches where they fly. Please, let me ask."
Zeph goes off to find the captain ...
Chapter 0 – Word Arrives
Endless Sky hovered above Goka. They arrived yesterday evening, and as much as Grand Master Zell might have wished, they did not immediately land or disembark. It was understood that they would wait to hear from the officials when the last ship, the ship sailing from Goka, would leave for Bonmu. When word arrived, the team found they had a full day to spend as they might choose in Goka, and would set sail with the other teams who had already arrived in Goka the following morning.
The orchestration, as expected, was grand. This last ship leaving Goka would meet the others which had left from Absolam, Southern Garund, and Azlant in close proximity; magically close proximity. The ship leaving Kasei in northern Tian Xia had departed just as Endless Sky arrived in the skies of Goka. The team knew it would have some time with other contestants on ship, but the possibility they could carouse for a bit in Goka beckoned.
The economy of the tournament eclipsed most of the mercantile experience of Golarion’s common merchants, save for the elite and venerable of several merchant houses. That said, each city with an invitee, each harbor with a departing ship, and most illustriously Goka, ramped their sales and hospitality potential to its highest potential, allowing them to provide for every need a contestant might have. Endless Sky indulging in some focused shore leave would be restorative, prudent, and perhaps even a touch opportunistic.
The time is now. It is 6am. The team sets sail for Bonmu in 30 hours.
As was mentioned, Goka beckons …
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Lazarus lazily lounges on the rail of The Endless Sky. The Warrior-Monk smiles as he watches the rolling cloud passing by them.
So, are we to venture down to entertain ourselves of Goka's offerings?
Lazarus looks to each of his new companions in this Tournament. He smiles at them, calling out as he leaps overboard down to the grounds of the bustling city!
Last one down buys lunch!
If anyone decides to take a look; Lazarus is seen bounding downward, using various means of structural spring boards to complete his descent 50' at a time!