Salim had entered the party in relatively simple clothes, a flowing robe of brown with a green head wrap to keep sweat and dirt away from his face. A slight shimmer of his cloak gives away its magic and on his head barely visible is a headband, with tunic symbols. Not enough to be readable but enough to tell it’s no mere ornament. However despite all this all he carries with him is a small dagger on his hip and a small stick sheathed as well, almost out of place compared to others that are more armored and armed.
He quietly follows the large Goliath into the library, wondering to himself what exactly he is getting into with this. As he slips in he can’t but help to mutter as the doors are magically sealed. “Oh all of us locked in here, that’s slightly concerning. Why all the precautions?” Just before Alexandria appears at the mantle, “What an ostentatious arrival.. he says backing up slightly.
Zephyr floats over to where Salim is, smiling, "I really think that has something to do with the plane-touched here ... but do let me know if my master upstages Lady Alex? Jyn can be very very competative."
The messenger seemed to float down to meet him while he was in the market, clearly intent on making his presence known. Only the landing was offputting … he might be a perfectly nice young man. ”Hi, my name is Jyn, and I was hired to bring a message to you. I also want to give you this bracelet. It was my mother’s. It is similar to one of the others you picked up, but nicer. She bought it in Katheer before I was born. Have a great afternoon Davod Mohidoon.”
Jyn, a very young man crackling with power, appears just outside the window in loose fitting garments of blue, white and gold, which complement the energy surrounding him. He recognizes the Peacebond spell without much effort, but is only concerned that he will break it when he opens the window to come in: he gestures and the curtains part … in his case, the Peacebonding only affects the mithril daggers currently sheathed at his wrists (which knife fighters would recognize are positioned so as to be almost completely useless). He would have to have been in great haste, or close-by, or both, to arrive this late yet this impeccably well dressed.
He can be heard from outside of the window, “Aukan, I don’t want to break your spell or anything, because I think it sends a great message to people about cooperating and stuff, but it also doesn’t affect supernatural armaments of any kind, so I wasn’t really sure if I should come in or just wait and let Zephyr listen in for me. I really am sorry to be late …”
JYN1
JYN2
JYN3
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Overjoyed at their reunion, Tiesa gushes fondly over Haleen. But as the initial exuberance of finding one another subsides, questions arise. “This Aukan sounds like a real gem. And I’m truly glad this village is prosperous once again. But not everything is well, is it? You spoke of prying eyes earlier—what do you fear? And …” she pauses before asking the one question she really wants the answer to “… why did you leave Katapesh so suddenly, to come here?”
In a corner opposite the fireplace and the flashy Alexandria, Tiesa slouches back in her chair and idly scratches her cat behind its ears. She listens quietly but intently to Aukan’s description of their missions.
Her demeanor hardly changes, but after the oracle pipes up with several suggestions, the half-orc chips in with her own thoughts. “Yeah, deception’ll help. But I’d liketa know more ‘bout this Kakishron scroll first. What’s it do? Why’s it so important? Who wants it? What’s it to you? And why us?”
"”Hi, my name is Jyn, and I was hired to bring a message to you. I also want to give you this bracelet. It was my mother’s. It is similar to one of the others you picked up, but nicer. She bought it in Katheer before I was born. Have a great afternoon Davod Mohidoon.”
The suli instinctively looks around to what he hated the most: undue attention, especially when he wasn't in a safe place to examine/hock his acquisitions. When given the bracelet, the rogue finds his voice. "Why are you giving this to me? The message I understand, but why part with something that was your mother's? To a stranger?"
Can we make some fake decoy scrolls, like, latch some cheap enchantments on them to make them ping as magical? So enemies keep guessing which scroll is the real one?
Is the expert humanoid? So would alteration magics to make him look different work on him?
We should also attach unobvious scrying sensors to each scroll, like a short bit of hair for example, do we have anyone who can scry?
The Oracle rattles of a number of pragmatic ideas.
She nods agreeing with your suggestions relaying her positive thoughts on it, "Good ideas Vivi. Yes I could make a number of decoys, it may take a few days but I think I could have one ready for each member before we head out. Yes from my knowledge the expert is humanoid. Ah I see what you are alluding to, change the appearance of the expert. At the same time we might use some altering spells to make some of us look like him. So simple items that we can scry for should the decoy be taken? I have a limited use of scrying each day."
"Great Aukan, master Jyn sends his regrets ... he will arrive posthaste and asks your indulgence."
Jovially he responds, "Ah Master Jyn will be along shortly then? Will you be his representative until then?"
Upon hearing Jyn he sighs and waves at the door which the magic upon it is turned off then opens. Once Jyn is with the group the doors close behind him and the spells begin to activate again.
“Yeah, deception’ll help. But I’d liketa know more ‘bout this Kakishron scroll first. What’s it do? Why’s it so important? Who wants it? What’s it to you? And why us?”
She draws a scrollcase from her belt, upon opening it you see a scroll which seems to bear only a single, strange rune. She states, "This is the scroll of Kakishron we know it was made by the wizard-king Nex. Centuries after Nex vanished at the climax of his war with Geb, the Scroll of Kakishon fell into obscurity. The scholar we seek in Katapesh is a wizard named Rayhan though Almah . So far we have had a band of gnolls infiltrate and try to take it and a few rogues that thought it would be an easy mark. This scroll we believe leads us to the land of Kakishron a paradise made by Nex."
Almah stands up from her seat and walks forward to tell what she knows, her expression brightens, "In my time in the city of Katapesh,
I have made countless contacts with various notables, and
one in particular comes to mind when I hear the word
“Kakishon.” This is an old family friend, a man named
Rayhan, who has made a comfortable life for himself as a
merchant, a scholar of note, and a wizard. I have visited
with Rayhan several times in the past, usually when seeking
his advice on mercantile matters involving the arcane and
bizarre, and particularly with matters involving Katapesh’s
neighbor to the south—Nex. I specifically recall
one visit when Rayhan had been researching numerous
legendary and mythical realms supposedly conquered by
Nex during the Age of Destiny. A place called Kakishon
was said to be the most beautiful and valuable of these
conquests, but no modern map of the world indicates
where such a place may be, or even may once have been.
Rayhan provides a compelling combination of vast
knowledge and a friendly disposition—the only problem
is that he lives in the distant city of Katapesh."
by a wizard named Andrathi. Lover to the exiled djinni
Nefeshti, it took Andrathi several years to decipher the
map’s purpose. Yet fate intervened before he had that chance.
His lover Nefeshti was the leader of a powerful group of
genie crusaders rallying against the cruelties of the City
of Brass. Called the Templars of the Five Winds, Nefeshti
and her janni warriors had recently become embroiled
in a brutal war against the efreeti Jhavhul and his own
army of wish-fueled warriors and monsters. As potent as
Nefeshti and her Templars were, they were slowly losing
the war. Then there is a major gap of what happened and all record of Andrathi faded from history.
associated with the mysterious wizard-king Nex,
although this association is primarily with periods
early in Nex’s rule, from a time after he had achieved
great power but before his war with Geb reached its
height. Runes like these were often used to mask
the true contents of a page, and often one gifted
in magic could pierce the obscuring rune with
spells, by observing the map in a reflected surface
or under certain kinds of light, while under the
effects of mind-altering substances, or after waking
from particularly vivid dreams. The rune itself is an
obscure Nexian rune that symbolizes a mysterious
realm called Kakishon.
conquered or created by Nex and used by the wizardking as a secret hideout or retreat for pleasure and
private researches. Properly translated, the rune is
said to transform into a map of the realm of Kakishon
and to point out the way to reach it. Legend holds
that a weapon of great power, something called the
“Firebleeder” (thought by most to be a fiery falchion
and by others to be a magical spell that allows total
control over the element of fire), was hidden in a vault
in Kakishon, along with a mind-boggling horde of
other treasures as well, including a number of Nex’s
own creations.
creations, and one of his first after transcending
the typical mortal ken of magic and passing into
the workings of the quasi-divine. This scroll is not
only a map of the hidden realm of Kakishon, but is
also the doorway through which one can travel to
the legendary realm, yet only if the proper secret
words and rituals of opening are known. The
keeper of the Scroll of Kakishon controls the only
point of entrance into and out of the mysterious
realm. Nex is said to have used the realm as a
place to experiment with his more outlandish
theories, and what is hidden within could rival or
even exceed the wonders the world knows today in
his kingdom to the south.
At the Black Raven.
Overjoyed at their reunion, Tiesa gushes fondly over Haleen. But as the initial exuberance of finding one another subsides, questions arise. “This Aukan sounds like a real gem. And I’m truly glad this village is prosperous once again. But not everything is well, is it? You spoke of prying eyes earlier—what do you fear? And …” she pauses before asking the one question she really wants the answer to “… why did you leave Katapesh so suddenly, to come here?”
"Oh yes he and Alexandria are, though Sasha and Nima are as well. No it seems that there are many informational brokers coming town, likely for the relic Aukan holds. I was abducted by a cult of Rognavog. They said my blood was apart of the line that is neccessary for their ritual. Once the drugs had worn off we were already halfway to Kelmarane. With no supplies or weapons I had to tough it out. The gnoll priest was killed in a raid on the caravan. The acolytes didn't have the knowledge of the priest and I was sold to the battlemarket to fight. When Aukan and his group rescued Kelmarane they also set me free. Yes I should have sent messege within the last few months but we have been so busy restoring the town and such. We even have some agriculture developing."
Tiesa relaxes when Haleen reveals that she is no longer in any danger, and that any threats are for another. “Seems I owe Aukan and his group a debt for saving you.” Though miffed that her supposedly closest friend couldn’t be bothered to send a message after being freed, the half-orc hides her annoyance.
While listening to the information about the scroll, Tiesa has a sudden realization. Of course! Haleen must have told Aukan and Alexandria about me. How else would they know? With that thought in mind, and the knowledge that these two had rescued her friend and received her warm endorsement, she casts her lot.
“I’m in. Came here from Katapesh, so goin’ back suits me just fine.” She gazes intently at the strange rune on the scroll. “And a scroll ta paradise? No wonder ya need guards. But y’said we’re s’posed ta go ta Kakishon itself? What’re ya hoping ta find?” The half-orc pauses, trying to remember anything she’s heard related to this magical paradise. “Anything yer hiding?”
After giving their hosts some time to come clean, Tiesa decides she needs to unveil her talents. It’s been a long time, if ever, since she’s come across a story this good, and she needs to prove herself to ensure a place on the expedition.
“So where’d ya find this scroll? Last I heard the wizard Andrathi had it, a few centuries ago, before he and his exiled djinn lover Nefeshti vanished from history. Right 'round the time she led the Templars of the Five Winds against Jhavul’s army in a war fueled by wishes. In a losing cause, sadly. No one knows what happened next.”
She glances at the doors, as if to indicate that she knows the secret to how the magical barrier was turned off and on, then continues.
“This Rayhan must be something truly special if he’s gonna decipher one of the most ancient creations of Nex himself—the wizard king’s magic was quasi-divine when he made it. He ain’t gonna let just anybody figure a way into his secret hideout, ‘specially if it holds even half the treasure rumored to be hidden there.” She pauses, choosing to not reveal any more secrets of the scroll for now, then holds out a hand to Alexandria.
“May I?”
Aukan replies coolly, "We found it in a sarcophagus of a cleric of Rognavog. It was hidden behind the blade of..." He pauses as he pulls an axe from his bag of holding and takes off the sheath. "This AXE! I believe it is a greataxe of life stealing, look at its wide and serrated blades! We had just defeated a sand kraken and the Carrion King."
She offers the scroll to Tiesa after she asked to look at it. As Tiesa takes hold of the scroll you can feel the intense heat coming off of Alexandria.
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Haleen is just glad to see that you are in good health and have come to check on her. When you begin to part ways for the night Haleen heads up the stairs, and you see a glowing sigil on the back of her neck.
The leaders including Alexandria, Aukan, and Almah, lead the conversation to a time table. When would you all be able to leave? Their plan is in a few days but if everyone is ready they can move up the time table. As those apart of the expedition will travel in style upon Aukan's flying corsair! It will also allow the group to get to Katapesh in but a few days rather than the weeks that it took to get to Kelmarane by caravan.
“I’m in. Came here from Katapesh, so goin’ back suits me just fine.”
"Same", the suli man responded. "Perhaps I should introduce myself to those who are unaware. My name is Davod Mohidoon. And I am a thief."
Good thing I start with V haha! So many As. Also good that they pass over my little side quest. The Oracle thinks
Varvara Ulyanova Vladimirova, or just Vivi, long names get you killed. Mercenary and occassional healer and blaster. I used to do scouting but I moved to hitting enemies directly with a big sword, as well as unhitting people with a healing touch. And I suddenly got good at blasting people with my radiant abs, just oracle things I guess. Great to have someone pragmatic dont mind the Paladin, he is grumpy but actually fairly reasonable for one!
She regards both Davod and Grimoin with a smile
Now, what else can we use, pardon me ill try to get into the right mindset. What would the nastiest evilist spymaster that I do know do?
Laugh at the notion of travelling because greater teleport at will, damned bat winged b$%!%. We dont have teleport available however.
If we are flying with a big flying corsair ship, this will generate attention. How about we craft us a legend that we are travelling to explore trade opportunities? Certainly Kelmaranes recent increase can result in benefits to be materialized for Khatapesh. It would hardly be out of place for us to pick up some additional merchants, officially temporary, to improve our economic position. Turning us into something akin to trade envoys? It is both cover, keeps the actual scroll under wraps, provides us with diplomatic cover, allows us to be secretive in general. We could even bind the axe of lifestealing into it as a gift.
She pauses
Khatapesh isnt quite as backstabbery as Alyushinyrra, but it is one of the backstabbiest places on Golarion, so we should have a couple of extra layers of deception ourself. She finishes
Nocticulas capital in the Abyss.
Strongly implying a Succubus as well as a fair bit of familarity with their abilities.
Salim sits contemplatively and nods to the golaith's words and listens before speaking up after Vivi's short explanation.
"I would say you have my backing in this endeavor. I'd also add that your idea works out quite well, I myself was something of a merchant, and lived in Katapesh for some time. I was somewhat well known in certain circles, I worked for someone who worked directly for the pactmasters. Not exactly the highest of titles but it's a start, and can atleast get some kind of cover that believable considering who we are going to see."
"But where are my manners, I am Salim Myr; entrepenur, traveler, and dabbler in a special form of magic. It's a pleasure to make your aquiantence, I think this could be an excellent start to a great venture or at the very least a wealthy one.'
Tiesa’s poker face cracks into a toothy grin when Davod introduces himself as a thief. “Bold. I like it.” She accepts the scroll from Alexandria, albeit with a wince from the uncomfortable heat emanating from the ‘Living Flame’, before introducing herself in turn.
“Name’s Tiesa. I know things.” As if to illustrate the subtext behind the vague description of her profession, she casts a spell and casually examines the scroll.
The examination is merely out of curiosity—she doesn’t really expect to uncover anything more, and soon hands the scroll back to the gold-skinned woman. “Wonder how a Rovagug bastard gotta holda this?” The half-orc glances at Aukan, not seeming particularly impressed by the axe.
To Salim she gives a slight nod of respect, from one intellect to another. “Pleased ta meetcha. I’d be int’rested in learning more ‘bout yer ‘special’ magic, if yer willin’ ta share.”
As to their timetable, Tiesa simply replies “My business is done here. I can leave whenever.” Glancing at Vivi she remarks, “No cover’s better’n a bad cover. Big fancy ship for trade and diplomacy from a small town like Kelmarane? Maybe for envoys from Osirion, but hard ta swallow for a place that’s just found its feet. Where’d he get the flying corsair from anyway?”
“Wait,” Tiesa calls out with a note of concern in her voice. “What’s that sigil on your neck?” The wizard quickly casts a spell to closely examine the strange symbol marking Haleen.
As to their timetable, Tiesa simply replies “My business is done here. I can leave whenever.” Glancing at Vivi she remarks, “No cover’s better’n a bad cover. Big fancy ship for trade and diplomacy from a small town like Kelmarane? Maybe for envoys from Osirion, but hard ta swallow for a place that’s just found its feet. Where’d he get the flying corsair from anyway?”
She seems to chuckle to herself at the thought, and casually replies, "Oh when we went back to the dragon lair to claim his treasure it was one of the relics within."
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"I too should remember my manners; I am Jyn, Jyn Skywalker. I work as a messanger, and I actually live upstairs which makes it even more unforgiveable to have been late. My friend and erstwhile herald is Zephyr amir ... who pretends to be my familiar rather than simply admitting he's a spy for my parents. It's a pleasure to meet you all."
He smiles somewhat sheepishly, “Of course, I’m more than willing to share knowledge and compare notes, though unfortunately my notes are a bit… messy.” he smiles to Jyn, “It’s a pleasure. With a rather motley crew of individuals here and a plan starting to form, do we have further business in town or should we begin preparations for leaving sooner rather than later?”
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"It is certainly an impressive artifact you have recovered. Should word get out that we have it in our possession, I suspect it will only be a matter of time before all sorts of unsavory characters try to claim it." Azaris says, adding his own arcane knowledge to Tiesa's and Almah's introduction to the scroll.
"I'm in. I would not want to miss the opportunity to travel on a flying ship and my skills are well suited for detering wannabe thieves. Now, what sort of compensation can we expect in exchange for our services?"
She makes a statement after hearing the interest and your questions, "As we have said we will need at least two days to get the decoys created and the ship resupplied. Unless you have the magical crafting skills for wondrous items, then we could speed up the process."
Her demeanor shifts to a sultry whisper, "You wish compensation? You may pick one of the three contracts. There are clauses in all three that you will not speak of the scroll or knowledge of it to anyone but those apart of the charter.
The first contract states that you will be given 100 platinum as a down payment and the same once the mission is complete.
The second contract states that you will gain a 100 gp stipend at the start of the mission and every month you stay with the expedition, up to 7,500 gold coins.
The third charter states that you will invest your time and assests to the fruition of the expedition and take an even split from any treasure or equal coin equivelence found, taken, robbed, or plundered by the group.
The fourth contract is a non disclosure statement with the binding of curses should you break your signed charter. Everyone needs to sign this one even if you don't join us. It only lasts thirty days, so you will be free to speak about it after that time has passed."
The suli steps forward. "The third charter sounds more my speed."
Looking deeply into Pharos's eyes, Davod adds,
The suli steps forward. "The third charter sounds more my speed."
Looking deeply into Pharos's eyes, Davod adds,
** spoiler omitted **
"1000 gold start & finish, or a contract that won't be worth that amunt for over a year and a half, or a chance at even more than the 7500 (over 6 year) cap on the 2nd contract. Interesting choices."
Jyn seems almost to swirl ... without moving.
"So do we discuss as a group, or do we wait and make sure the fine print has some specifications and disclosures about buyer's remorse?"
The planetouched young man smiles, but no one is totally sure if that is pleasant or not.
"I would need it to be very VERY clear that those who were NOT receiving a share, were NOT receiving a share. I would need it clear that those who are being paid, are paid out of funds that a pre-exisitng, so as not to diminish any shares. And I would need it crystal clear that those who chose upfront compensation would be cursed beyond the edges of time were they to forswear themselves and take action against the shareholders of the expedition.
Jyn smiles again even more broadly, "and then I too would be ready to sign."
Salim starts to look a little worried at that, “A magical contract, oh goody. It’s been a while since I’ve seen one. May I take a look at them please, not that I don’t trust you, but like Jyn said, fine print and all that.” his rather calm and easy going demeanor now starting to get a little more anxious with the mention of magically binding words.
The suli steps forward. "The third charter sounds more my speed."
Looking deeply into Pharos's eyes, Davod adds,
** spoiler omitted **[dice=Diplomacy]1d20 + 13
After he spoke in Ignan, she waves her hand and quills appear floating in front of each of the contracts. She added, "It will hurt some as the quill will absorb your blood and use it for the ink."
The suli steps forward. "The third charter sounds more my speed."
Looking deeply into Pharos's eyes, Davod adds,
** spoiler omitted **"1000 gold start & finish, or a contract that won't be worth that amunt for over a year and a half, or a chance at even more than the 7500 (over 6 year) cap on the 2nd contract. Interesting choices."
Jyn seems almost to swirl ... without moving.
"So do we discuss as a group, or do we wait and make sure the fine print has some specifications and disclosures about buyer's remorse?"
The planetouched young man smiles, but no one is totally sure if that is pleasant or not.
"I would need it to be very VERY clear that those who were NOT receiving a share, were NOT receiving a share. I would need it clear that those who are being paid, are paid out of funds that a pre-exisitng, so as not to diminish any shares. And I would need it crystal clear that those who chose upfront compensation would be cursed beyond the edges of time were they to forswear themselves and take action against the shareholders of the expedition.
Jyn smiles again even more broadly, "and then I too would be ready to sign."
She nods her head in concession and relays,
"If you sign either of the first two charters you will be paid by my or Aukan's accounts and WIll NOT receive a share in the group loot of the expedition. If any commissioned party would like to buy an item from the pool of loot, they may buy it at cost. Those that sign the third contracts of shares will gain an equal share with the others that sign it. One item of an equal share may be claimed by your credit against the loot pool.The fourth contract which will be signed by all in this room, ensures you don't share knowledge of the expedition or the scroll of Kakishron or anything associated with them. The list of curses include, blinding, deafness, ability score drain, folly, and a sin magic that replicates leprosy. Jon, I can always add more to the list if you have suggestions."
To Salim she smiles and states, "It is always prudent to read the fine print." With that she nods to Nima.
She comes forwards and gives a magnifying glass to Salim and more to others should they request.
The contract seems pretty straightforward in the main paragraphs of the contracts. With the magnifying glasses you can see the border around the contract is actually lines of words. Expressly talking about the magic involved with the wordage of a seasoned barrister.
Once all have signed the fourth contract and likely signed one of the charters, Nima would offer lesser restoration if anyone complains.
Aukan then waves his hand and the fine metal doors, bearing flame motifs and phoenixes, unbind and soon open.
He states, "So at dusk on the third day please come and take your cabin, if not before. Any transactions will occur at the vault, please follow Sasha as she will provide you compensation. I and Alexandria shall stay here to answer any other questions."
Davod accepts the restoration from Nima graciously, having signed both third and fourth contract.
"Aukan, a question. In reference to the third contract, do still hold whole ownership of items I have stolen previous to signing the contract?" The suli's pouches still budged with items from the arena earlier.
Tiesa gives Salim a lazy nod of acknowledgment when he mentions messy notes. “Sounds like a right proper wizard then.” Her gaze flits across the others as she keeps her thoughts to herself.
After Alexandria describes the contracts, the half-orc bares an ugly grin. “Not real sportin’ ta tell us ‘bout curse binding after we’ve got no choice. Norm’ly ya tell people beforehand, so they can walk away before gettin’ a curse tattooed to their soul. But I’ll tell ya what …” Tiesa pauses as she carefully scrutinizes the proffered contract, then nods to herself. “… I’ll overlook yer faux-pas if ya give me an int’rest free loan in addition to the charter. Just a hundred platinum, ta be repaid after the expedition. It’s even to yer benefit—I’ll use it to buy some goods ta sell in Katapesh. Play the merchant Vivi was talking about. Whaddya say?”
“And one more question,” she adds after a pause. “There ain’t an efreet lookin’ fer the scroll, is there?” she asks pointedly, without looking at Azaris.
Davod accepts the restoration from Nima graciously, having signed both third and fourth contract.
"Aukan, a question. In reference to the third contract, do still hold whole ownership of items I have stolen previous to signing the contract?" The suli's pouches still budged with items from the arena earlier.
[dice=Diplomacy]1d20 + 14
He is a bit hesitent to the words Davod said, "No... anything you have previously gained would be yours. Honestly I have no taste for stealing but as long as you stay under the radar, or get authorization before pulling a hefty heist so we can support you, you may keep your ill gotten gains. You would have to talk to Alexandra if there is a clause considering stealing, I am sure she has done so."
"Honestly we had assumed that the bulk of those we invited would sign one of the charters, though the fourth contract was to secure it all. Sure you can have an interest free loan of a hundred platinum, though I would need some collateral. Otherwise you can have an interest free loan of two hundred gold. Unless you want to pay 20% interest for five hundred gold or 30% interest for your one hundred platinum. You choose."
At the mention of an Efreeti she laughs, "Why yes from my research I know of three powerful Efreet that would love to have this scroll. Also djinni and the other wish blessed. They believe the map will open the way to Kakishron and release their master Jhavhul."
Now, what else can we use, pardon me ill try to get into the right mindset. What would the nastiest evilist spymaster that I do know do?
Laugh at the notion of travelling because greater teleport at will, damned bat winged b&$+&. We dont have teleport available however.
If we are flying with a big flying corsair ship, this will generate attention. How about we craft us a legend that we are travelling to explore trade opportunities? Certainly Kelmaranes recent increase can result in benefits to be materialized for Khatapesh. It would hardly be out of place for us to pick up some additional merchants, officially temporary, to improve our economic position. Turning us into something akin to trade envoys? It is both cover, keeps the actual scroll under wraps, provides us with diplomatic cover, allows us to be secretive in general. We could even bind the axe of lifestealing into it as a gift.
She pauses.
She nods and states, "That is a wonderful idea, good thing we already came up with it. Actually the corsair has been to Katapesh three times now. Expediting the trip of the caravans back and setting up protocals to pick them up again. We even have a compound in Katapesh. Bind the axe of lifestealing into what?"
"If you are interested and want to have a chance at fame and glory please come to my estate for dinner. All will be explained there. Please come before it turns dark."
Grim frowned in thought, trying to figure out what this was all about, but came up with no answers.
He shrugged philosophically and put the note away, noting down the time and blocking it out on his pocket calendar.Well before dark, he marched up to the appointed estate.
Some of the guests have dressed in their best as others have come in their adventuring gear.
Grim looked natty in his formal military uniform and regalia of the Hospitaller Order of Abadar, Warrior of the Holy Light and Duskwalker Agent. He was also carrying the newly polished and upgraded Gavel of Abadar.
You are greeted by guards at the gate who check your invite before letting you enter. They may eye your weapons and heavy armor but are apparently not suppose to restrict the guests. As you enter into the grounds you feel a spell wash over you, Will DC 24. Spellcraft DC 22: The spell is peace bind.
Success!
He will grab a mug off a tray and nosh on whatever snacks come his way as he chats with the other guests.Just before the sun goes below the mountain range to the West a few fireworks are set off. As a flying ship slowly descends to the front of the mansion. Aukan gets off with an easy leap over the bow of the ship to present himself to the gathered crowd.
Grim Ooohed and Aaaahed and applauded along with the rest.
"It's just like 'The Viscount of Ahdrilankha', one of my favorite stories!" He whispered excitedly to his companions.
"...Now if you have interest of the coming expedition please step forward and walk with me to the library."
Wondering what the productions is all about, he follows Aukan into the Library.
"The first mission is to travel to Katapesh so that the scroll of Kakisron can be deciphered by an expert. The second mission is to protect him and the scroll at all costs. Lastly the main goal is to follow the map of Kakishron to Kakishron itself, thus the expedition. Now any particulars you can ask Alexandria as she is presently our expert on the topic."
Turning to Alexandria, he hears her out.
Grim scratched his head at the historical information provided.
"Well now; frankly it's all a bit over my head. Still, it'd be nice to see some old friends in Katapesh." He said.
As the contracts come out, Grims eyes blazed and he slammed the Gavel of Abadar down with a *WHAM*.
"In the name of Abadar, Master of the First Vault, I will examine all contracts." He gritted out.
"Honestly we had assumed that the bulk of those we invited would sign one of the charters, though the fourth contract was to secure it all. Sure you can have an interest free loan of a hundred platinum, though I would need some collateral. Otherwise you can have an interest free loan of two hundred gold. Unless you want to pay 20% interest for five hundred gold or 30% interest for your one hundred platinum. You choose."
At the mention of an Efreeti she laughs, "Why yes from my research I know of three powerful Efreet that would love to have this scroll. Also djinni and the other wish blessed. They believe the map will open the way to Kakishron and release their master Jhavhul."
"This is all SO exciting! Thank you great Aukan, for both the hospitality AND the opportunity!"
Jyn smiled; this smile had a touch of mischief to it ... as he pulled out one of his daggers. Several gasps were heard.
"I know our trust will grow and prosper as our team works together, for now though, of course, it's basically non-existant. We're all clear on that, right? Good, I thought so. I was completely sure to be honest."
"So I will draw my own blood. Again, I'm sure we all understand that there's no way that I would subject myself to an enchanted blood-draining writing instrument. I mean, is that actually like an idiocy test? I hope we all passed ..."
"I also have a vial of my blood upstairs if I were allowed to go procure it."
"Will the esteemed need more time to produce the loan documents by the way? I certainly won't expect to receive my hundred platinum without an additional agreement."
“Jhavhul?” Tiesa prompts Alexandria for more information while trying to remember what she knows about this name.
group of five powerful genies from antiquity. They
have not been heard from in centuries, but travelers
in the northern reaches of Katapesh and the southern
bounds of Osirion still sometimes attribute miracles
or victories to their guidance.
defeated a great evil hundreds of years ago near Pale
Mountain in the Brazen Peaks, a pinnacle not very far from
the village of Kelmarane. Each Templar was associated
with a specific aspect of the wind, and each wielded a
distinct, highly potent magic weapon.
to be particular enemies of the cult of Rovagug, god of
destruction, and many tales of their triumphs recount
battles against the spawn of that vile religion. The templars
themselves are jann, mortal genie-spirits dedicated to no
particular element. For some reason, these jann cannot
die, though none have been seen in centuries.
powerful djinni princess named Nefeshti, a great genie
noble whose designs upon Osirion and Katapesh have had
good and bad consequences. The Song of Edrehu suggests
that the Templars’ immortality came from a powerful wish
uttered by Nefeshti in antiquity, stating that so long as the
warriors retained her favor, they would live forever. This
result also grants the names and associated weapons of the
five Templars:
Davashuum wields a powerful quarterstaff. Kardswann's weapon is an elaborate greataxe, Pazhvann has a tremendous burning flail.
Vardishal’s wields a greatsword. Zayifid's weapon is a delicate but razor-sharp scimitar.
The next few days fly by with much activity in town and at Aukan's estate.
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"Honestly we had assumed that the bulk of those we invited would sign one of the charters, though the fourth contract was to secure it all. Sure you can have an interest free loan of a hundred platinum, though I would need some collateral. Otherwise you can have an interest free loan of two hundred gold. Unless you want to pay 20% interest for five hundred gold or 30% interest for your one hundred platinum. You choose."
At the mention of an Efreeti she laughs, "Why yes from my research I know of three powerful Efreet that would love to have this scroll. Also djinni and the other wish blessed. They believe the map will open the way to Kakishron and release their master Jhavhul."
"This is all SO exciting! Thank you great Aukan, for both the hospitality AND the opportunity!"
Jyn smiled; this smile had a touch of mischief to it ... as he pulled out one of his daggers. Several gasps were heard.
"I know our trust will grow and prosper as our team works together, for now though, of course, it's basically non-existant. We're all clear on that, right? Good, I thought so. I was completely sure to be honest."
"So I will draw my own blood. Again, I'm sure we all understand that there's no way that I would subject myself to an enchanted blood-draining writing instrument. I mean, is that actually like an idiocy test? I hope we all passed ..."
"I also have a vial of my blood upstairs if I were allowed to go procure it."
"Will the esteemed need more time to produce the loan documents by the way? I certainly won't expect to receive my hundred platinum without an additional agreement."
They would allow you to write your own name anyway that you choose. She states, "Alas the doors won't open until all have signed so use your dagger and sign."
She would then announce to the group, "Any other monetary necessities would be addressed with Sasha at the vault post haste after you all have signed."
Davod Mohidoon signed both third and fourth. As well as Aukan, Nima, Sasha,
1st contract:
2nd contract:
After a moment’s consideration, Tiesa removes the masterwork dagger from her belt and offers it to Alexandria. “Here, take this as collat’ral for the int’rest free loan of a hundred plat’num. You’d be hard pressed to find a finer blade than this.”
She then signs the third charter (for an equal share of loot), accepting Nima’s offer to heal any ill effects from blood loss. Afterwards the half-orc speaks to Grim in a friendly tone marked with respect. “Not sure if ya ‘member me, but ya helped me out at the Nightstalls a few years ago. Still much obliged, and glad to see we’re going on an expedition together. Wonder if ya might help me with a few more contracts when we’re done here?”
The next couple days are spent on a mixture of business and research, interspersed with downtime relaxing with Haleen. She ensures that she can legally harvest the untended fields of pesh; not one for manual labor, she hires a large team of menial workers to gather as much of the crop as possible for her.
While others perform the drudgery of physical labor, Tiesa tries to learn all she can about dragonmarks, and about Jhavhul and the genies trying to free him. It’s always best to know your enemy.
Davod Mohidoon signed both third and fourth. As well as Aukan, Nima, Sasha,1st contract:
2nd contract:** spoiler omitted **
** spoiler omitted **
Jyn is ready to sign 3rd, 4th, and a rider to borrow 100pp @ 30% interest
After the meeting, Davod uses his black market connections (Ex) to fence his various knick-knacks and baubles, with the exception of the silver holy symbol.
I will take the third and fourth contract, understand however that I and my previous employer, whose nature at least Aukan and Grimoin can reasonably guess from having encountered one of her agents, have a standard "commit no harm to reasonable and known interests of the other party" for a year and a day following completition of the contract clause.
Inspite of the nature of the employer, according to the nearly century long institutional memory of the private military company I am part of, there have been zero cases of breach of faith on her part regarding the do no harm clause post contract. This is likely due to her wishing to maintain her suprisingly good reputation among mercenary companies.
I'll sign the third and fourth contract. Azaris says, not reacting to Tiesa's mention of an efreet. He does think Huh...that's a strange coincidence... to himself.
After a moment’s consideration, Tiesa removes the masterwork dagger from her belt and offers it to Alexandria. “Here, take this as collat’ral for the int’rest free loan of a hundred plat’num. You’d be hard pressed to find a finer blade than this.”
She then signs the third charter (for an equal share of loot), accepting Nima’s offer to heal any ill effects from blood loss.
The next couple days are spent on a mixture of business and research, interspersed with downtime relaxing with Haleen. She ensures that she can legally harvest the untended fields of pesh; not one for manual labor, she hires a large team of menial workers to gather as much of the crop as possible for her.
While others perform the drudgery of physical labor, Tiesa tries to learn all she can about dragonmarks, and about Jhavhul and the genies trying to free him. It’s always best to know your enemy.
Alexandria accepts the mithril dagger as collateral.
Sasha deals with collecting the collateral and doling out the coins to Djyn and Tiesa.1st contract:
2nd contract:
3rd contract: Davod, Aukan, Nima, Sasha, Tiesa, Azarius, Djyn, Vivi,
The administration of Pactmasters issues you a managerial Pesh harvesting license for the next month for a 50 gp fee.
Learning about dragonmarks and Jhavhul is hard to do in Kelmarane. You learn of a few myths or legends but nothing substantial.