Elliander notes that the dais and crystals in the illustration appear to be floating, seemingly part of a vast temple to somehow sits high up in the night sky.
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Looking for a bit of open space in this cramped halls, rediz unfolds his wings and flies a few times along the main hallway to gain the necessary height, before retruning to the history section and scanning the upper shelves. Knowing his limited time he scans the markings for anything from the appropriate time befroe quickly checking on the scrolls in that section. After a few minutes he strikes gold and returns to the others with a scroll about Hakotep also called the "Sky Pharao"
"Does this picture look a bit strange to you too? Why would thomebody paint him like that? We really need to find out more. I found thith scroll claiming this scroll was copied from the inner sanctum. How about we go there to find out if there is more about this ruler still waiting to be copied."
”Yes, take a look at this too, Soumral. It seems like something big floating in the air. Ever seen anything like that?”
At Elliander's words, Soumral thinks of an ancient people called the Shory, who traveled the world in great flying cities during the Age of Destiny - a seemingly impossible feat accomplished through the use of a form of long-forgotten magic. She recalls that the legends told that the fall of the Shory was not caused by a single event, so much as a long decline as their magnificent flying cities eventually falling to disease, war, or monsters. Since no one could determine a definite final fate of the Shory empire, their history passed into myth and many modern scholars now believe that the tales of the flying cities are nothing more than fanciful exaggeration - but perhaps this scroll implies that there is at least some amount of truth to be found in the legend.
While Francis was nearly useless searching for information he does reply to the comment about the Inner Sanctum.
"To gain access there we need special permission from Haty-a Deka An-Keret. I've been told that we might find her 'August Presence' across the Plaza of the Bright Horizon, in the Sanctuary of Nethys. We'll need a good reason. Sounds like they protect whatever is in there."
Soumral mentions the Shory theory, but adds that it's a speculative idea. The Shory were certainly not the same as Ancient Osirion. Attributing what the Shory were purportedly capable of to Ancient Osirion as well involves several large leaps.
"The Shory and the Ancient Osiriani were likely contemporaries. Perhaps this Sky Pharaoh unlocked their secrets."
He nods to Francis, "I feel our reason is a compelling one. Preventing the dead from rising and attacking Tephu is a noble goal, and hopefully she will accept it."
Oathday, the 10th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and hot (about 96 degrees) with little or no wind.
Two hours after midday.
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Crossing the Plaza of the Bright Horizon takes only a few minutes - and the party is grateful for that fact after enduring the blazing sun above even for those two hundred odd seconds - and then they find themselves in the cool confines of the Sanctuary of Nethys. After mentioning their desire to speak with the haty-a Deka An-Keret, to the temple guards, the party is guided to a side chamber where a priestess veiled in gold cloth sits at a small desk. She rises gracefully and the guard withdraws to just outside the open door as the veiled priestess greets them politely. "Greetings, travelers. I am Deconess Sekek. How may I be of service?"
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Well inside the Sanctuary of Nethys, Elliander looks up with interest and in awe of all the decorations surrounding them. No expense seems to have been spared here. While the duskblade is not a religious type, he is well aware that Nethys is the god of magic, and thus worthy some study and respect.
In general, the clergy of the temples is another matter, ranging from kind servants doing good deeds, to pompous bureaucrats or even mad evil-worshippers, he has found.
The one that greets them at least seems polite, so Elliander is a bit cautious no to ruin her impression of them. Knowing Francis and Amenhep likely know more how to address the priestess, and Soumral what to ask about the Ancient Osirion, Elliander just bows and hopes the others will know how to ask for access to the one that can grant them permission to seek knowledge further at the library; the one they seem to call the ‘haty-a’.
Like Rediz, Soumral is hoping Francis can work out some ecumenical relationship with the Priestess. It seems to her to be the best angle of approach.
Soumral is prepared to offer technical details regarding the magical questions and puzzles they need answers to once the path has been paved however.
Oathday, the 10th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and hot (about 96 degrees) with little or no wind.
Two hours after midday.
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Deaconess Sekek inclines her head toward the party in a polite acquiesce. "Certainly, I will bring your request to the haty-a Deka An-Keret. However, I will need information as to what topics you are seeking information about." After writing down whatever details the adventurers are willing to divulge, she nods again. "Very well, I will bring this to the attention of the haty-a as soon as possible. I would advise you return the day after tomorrow. The schedule of the haty-a is quite busy, but I will endeavor to obtain an answer for you by then."
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No. I'll usually ask for a roll if I need one. I don't mind players making rolls if they think it'd be helpful, though. If one isn't called for, it might or might not have some small effect. In this case, even a roll of 40 wouldn't change this particular outcome.
Elliander is not skilled in bluffing or keeping things secret. He believes this priestess will see right through them if they are not honest in their request, and he is also prepared to relate about the incidents in Wati, if needed. He also believes they might need this priestess on their side to get them the access they need. Whether revealing too much might close doors for them is the chance they have to take. Not making a good case for their request, will just lead to them being ignored anyway.
Elliander speaks openly about the perils they faced in Wati, with the Cult of the Forgotten Pharaoh and their search for more information on the mysterious Sky Pharaoh Hakotep I. Deaconess Sekek writes down the information, making a few remarks as to the bravery of the adventurers in the face of the undead horde that threatened their sister city. "I will certainly relay your request to the the haty-a Deka An-Keret. Please return tomorrow morning and perhaps I will have her response by that time."
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Elliander speaks openly about the perils they faced in Wati, with the Cult of the Forgotten Pharaoh and their search for more information on the mysterious Sky Pharaoh Hakotep I. Deaconess Sekek writes down the information, making a few remarks as to the bravery of the adventurers in the face of the undead horde that threatened their sister city. "I will certainly relay your request to the the haty-a Deka An-Keret. Please return tomorrow morning and perhaps I will have her response by that time."
Francis makes sure that he is clean and understated as the group enters. He does wear his holy symbol but for once doesn't have it polished to a bright sheen. Since this is a different temple he understands that his position with Pharasma won't help. He is not surprised when they are greeted by a subordinate of the haty-a. "Thank you for your time. I don't know if you heard much of the disaster in the Necropolis in Wati? Some cultists released a Ka pulse of power that caused the dead to animate and attack. It took some effort but of course the dead were put back where they belong. However, there was evidence that the cult has a presence beyond Wati, and that they were looking for historical information about a pharaoh that they referred to as the Sky Pharaoh. They also mentioned the name Hakotep I, and referred to him as the forgotten Pharaoh? We seek access to the Spiral Archive for information to stop the cult of the Forgotten Pharaoh from repeating their actions here and anywhere else that they might be. We of course will respect your rules and your privacy."
Starday, the 13th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and hot (about 95 degrees) with little or no wind.
Two hours after sunrise.
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Elliander's search in the Outer Sanctum proves fruitless during their day of wait, which winds up dragging on a bit longer than expected. In the spirit of true bureaucracy, it is actually three days before Deaconess Sekek informs the party that the governor has a few short minutes to see them before her very busy schedule. The raven-haired high priestess of Nethys greets the party cooly as they are shown into her office, which is decorated with religious art dedicated to the God of Magic, blended with the furnishings of a busy and very high-ranking bureaucrat. The chamber is quite large, with a few other desks toward the back where scribes and priests are ready to attend the needs of the haty-a of Tephu - as well as a pair of guards that stand attentively nearer at hand.
Dressed in a very fine white robe with gold trim, her lips painted black, Deka An-Keret speaks and her voice is cultured and smooth - though there is a definite edge of annoyance in her tone, which is also reflected in her kohl-shaded eyes and slightly furrowed brow. "I am given to understand that you seek knowledge from the Great Library that is not to be found the Outer Sanctum - a collection of tomes and other writings that more than meet the needs of nearly all that come to Tephu. What knowledge, specifically, are you seeking within the Inner Sanctum?"
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To his disappointment, Elliander does not find much useful information in the library, even given the extra day they are waiting to see the haty-a. He thought that he would have gotten more, at least about the general issues. The time is not totally wasted though, since he at least picks up some pieces of history.
When they finally meet the Deka An-Keret, Elliander expects that the haty-a has been informed at least some of their endeavors in Wati and does not want to linger too long on that subject again. She’s a busy person, no doubt. The duskblade waits for Francis to handle the religious part, with Soumral helping with diplomatic charm (which Elliander sadly lacks). Given a chance, Elliander will fill in their humble request with the historic perspective he has learned in the library.
"Gracious haty-a, we seek knowledge of the Cult of the Forgotten Pharaoh, and the man they worship, the Sky Pharaoh Hakotep I."
Despite all his charm, Amenhep has never been one for waiting for the wheels of bureaucracy to turn. He is impatient, and it shows.
Francis had pretty much expected the response received. Sebti had indicated that they shouldn't expect much help.... "I'm sorry to waste any time so I'll get right to the point with details. As Amenhep said, the Cult of the Forgotten Pharaoh apparently worshiped the Sky Pharaoh Hakotep 1. Information that we found indicated that they seek information, perhaps on where his tomb is located? Or if he had any powerful artifacts buried with him. I think they plan to raise him and possibly destroy all living things in this area of the world."
"We have searched the regular library and found a little information, but nothing useful. If you have any historical information about the Sky Pharaoh, Halotep I, or if we could be allowed to search in the Spiral Archive we hope we can stop the cult. And as I said to Deaconess Sekek, we will of course respect all of your rules and your privacy."
Starday, the 13th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and hot (about 95 degrees) with little or no wind.
Two hours after sunrise.
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Deka An-Keret frowns as Amenhep briefly speaks, followed by Francis - who feels he could have been a bit more eloquent but is confident he got his point across. Elliander interjects a bit of historic perspective, and finally the haty-a waves one hand impatiently. "You seek information on myths and legends, I assure you. Further research within the Inner Sanctum will yield no further information save for more of the same. Your request is denied, now if you will kindly..."
Her next words are cut off though as a messenger slave enters, a dark-skinned eunuch with a bald pate and simple clothes that mark his status - and yet they are finer than usual in quality and his expression is languid and confident. Those that are knowledgeable in local customs mark him as the slave of a powerful noble*. He glides past the party, not even giving them a second glance, and prostrates himself on the floor in front of the governor. In a simpering voice, the large man speaks. "My mistress sends greetings to the divine priestess of Nethys, and bids her to join Her Excellency Muminofrah of Sothis immediately for breakfast and to share with her your wisdom in matters of great import."
It doesn't take a mind reader to interpret the look on Deka An-Keret's face, a mixture of impatience and annoyance, but her response is courteous - if slightly strained around the edges. "I thank your mistress for her kind hospitality. I will meet with her shortly." Turning to her guards, she gives them an imperious gesture and stands as she returns her gaze back to the party as the slave slowly rises to his feet and moves past you. "That is all, you are dismissed." She says coldly, as though surprised you are still standing there. Then she turns her back and moves through a door on the far side of the chamber as one of the scribes hastens to open it for her and two guards that accompany her. The other guard gazes at your party sternly, and moves to escort you back out past the desk of the Deaconess and into to the entry foyer of the great temple.
The doors into the haty-a's offices are then closed by the guardsman who disappears back inside, leaving the party alone in the vast entry hall. The slave they'd seen a few moments ago is stretching as he waits alone on one of the padded benches, as a few others who are likely on temple business stroll through the chamber, chatting with each other in soft voices that one normally assumes in a place of worship. The entry doors at the far end are open wide to the bright day outside.
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Soumral sighs with annoyance.
"So much for it helping if I keep myself out of the discussion. What a b*$*&."
Soumral has heard of Muminofrah of Sothis, a noblewoman of voracious appetite (both for fine foods and... other pursuits) who is highly ranked among her peers. But she doesn't know much more than that.
Amenhep tries to call what he knows of the nobility of Osirion, specifically what he's heard of Muminofrah of Sothis.
The paladin is quite familiar with the name, actually. Her Excellency Muminofrah of Sothis, Fan-Bearer on the Right Side of the King, and personal representative of Ruby Prince Khemet III. Amenhep knows her to be a high-ranking courier in the Ruby Prince's court - one that implies a close personal relationship with the pharaoh and, incidentally, places her above Deka An-Keret (a mere haty-a) in the hierarchy of Osirian nobility.
Soumral shrugs. "We could try going over the priests' heads to the higher authority...
Francis doesn't know anything useful about Muminofrah, and at the moment he's a bit in shock at the stupidity of the priestess of Nethys. Her "assurance" is pure garbage and he wonders why she has such an attitude. "Could she be in the cult? If not, what is she hiding?"
Realizing that he's thinking out loud he shuts up and motions for the group to move along. "Never know who's listening."
Once they are away from any of the temple's people Francis agrees with Soumral's idea. "I don't know why she dismissed our warning like that. Legends are built from some base facts. Either she's in the cult or working with them. Or, she knows something and just doesn't want anyone finding the information. Maybe we can request an audience with Her Excellency Muminofrah of Sothis? But I think we should wait so we don't encounter Deka An-Keret, and possibly warn her."
"It's simpler than her being a cultist or hiding something. She holds us in contempt."
Even has Francis speaks his thoughts, the party turns and watches as Deka An-Keret, surrounded by four watchful guardsmen, follow the eunuch slave sent by Muminofrah as they stride across the plaza, heading northwest from the Sanctuary of Nethys toward the Gate of the Moon. The guards at the gate bow respectfully as the group passes through the massive archway and disappear from sight among the throngs of people beyond.
"If the haty-a will not grant us access, then it seems that Her Excellency is our strongest lead."
Any decisions?
”No time to waste. We’re not getting any further here now. Let’s follow the servants back to Her Excellency Muminofrah. Maybe wise to be tactful, but right now I don’t really care if the haty-a approves of us following or not. She’s not going to help us without some new reason or pressure, it seems.
On the way there we might learn more about Her Excellency. If we feel we’re not yet prepared to face her when we get there, then at least we’ll know where she is to be found, when we are.”
Starday, the 13th day of Desnus, 4714 AR
Weather is clear and hot (about 95 degrees) with little or no wind.
Two hours after sunrise.
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As the adventurers discuss their options, including the idea of going over the haty-a's head - perhaps with the assistance of this well connected Muminofah - they watch the departing backs of Deka An-Keret and her escort for a moment before Elliander suggests they follow the contingent.
It doesn't take long, as their destination is just a few blocks north of the Gate of the Moon, under the west wall of the Old City. Along the banks of Wadjet's Walk, a great palace (Area 15 on the map) towers over the canal, fronted with a palisade of beautifully painted pillars in dazzling colors. In front of the palace, moored to a magnificent marble quay, a luxurious river barge wallows in the turbid waters of the canal. Between the barge and the palace, a makeshift camp of colorful tents and stalls has sprung up, creating a small village worth of bustling activity. The haty-a and her escorting guardsmen, led by the large eunuch slave, can be seen moving purposefully through the veritable storm of movement and excitement with a stately grace. In moments, they cross the quay and board the river barge, disappearing from view behind the silken curtains that screen a large portion of the open deck.
Local aristocrats and wealthy citizens sit upon cushions here and there along the open spaces of the massive deck of the river barge, tended to by eunuchs holding large parasols shielding them from the sun as well as a great many slaves and servants that scurry between the barge and the tents set up on the grounds of the estate, bearing trays of drink, sweet meats and other culinary delights. There are a good many guards as well, and tethered to each of the four pillars that support the curtains screening the center of the river barge are four very large lions alongside a guard standing dutifully beside each of them and bearing a leather whip.
Closer at hand, a pair of hefty, dark-skinned warriors wearing heavy armor and carrying scimitars appear to be guarding the estate grounds.
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Seeing what are obvious guards Francis steps up to them. He keeps his hands in clear site so the guards won't mistakenly think that he could be attacking. "Excuse us. We seek to arrange an audience with Her Excellency Muminofrah of Sothis. Could you direct us to whoever handles Her schedule?"
Elliander makes use of the time while they are walking. He talks to the servants and slaves guiding the haty-a and her guards to the river barge, trying to learn more about this Muminofrah, without getting in the way of the haty-a.
It’s clear when they arrive that they can’t just tag along on board the barge. The haty-a has been summoned and that did not include the team of adventurers too. The area around the river barge is full of guards, so it’s equally obvious that trying to sneak on board would not be the first alternative to choose. They need to get Muminofrah’s attention to their quest somehow first. Francis addresses some guards …
Though Francis speaks politely, the guards seem to size them up and then the larger one shakes his head. "Her Excellency is engaged with important business for the Ruby Princes and has far too busy a schedule to meet with petitioners such as yourselves. Move along."
It is fairly clear that a gift or tribute is expected, though a bribe paid directly to the guard might work as well. It's also possible that a promise of having something of value or importance for Muminofrah's eyes and ears only would allow you to get past these common guards.
For someone of Muminofrah's status, the gift would likely have to exceed 500gp or so. Jewelry, a magical trinket, or something else similarly exotic would probably be sufficient.
Elliander understands that the guard is there to stop just anyone from seeing Her Excellency. He’s just not sure what to say or do, to convey the right message and make the guard understand their mission.
Some noble people are less a servant of the people and more selfish though. He wonders if there is something else Muminofrah is interested in, which could be the way in to see her.
”There must be a way around this.
Sourmal can only look to more knowledgeable locals like Amenhep and Francis for some solution.
"I'm running out of patience with this. If nobody who lives here cares enough about their own future to even consider talking about it or sharing some archival information that might matter, to hell with them and I have better places to be."
Elliander turns to Francis (but he speaks low enough for Soumral to hear even if the guard is left out): ”So, what do we do? Offer a gift? Bribe our way in? Offer entertainment? Do we know any tricks that can amuse a wealthy person?
I’ve got this Elixir of Firebreath I got from the alchemist. Though it’s useful enough to keep, it’s worth some gold and can be used as a ‘party trick’.
Do we have to give something to the guard first, even for him to consider us giving Her Excellency something further?”
"I should have expected she would want a gift. For someone of her power, it would be best to be expensive. Jewelery, or something magical, perhaps."
Soumral rolls her eyes, which takes some real dramatic effort to get it noticed considering the huge size of her elven irises.
"Seriously? I've heard of rank bribery to actually get some action of something one's asked for before, but here it's to just be able to ask in the first place?"