Nearly two decades ago, the wife of a disgraced Vudrani nobleman went behind her husband's back and called upon a spirit of fire, so that he may grant her a wish. "I wish," she told the creature, "That my family will be great again." The spirit, wicked and proud, saw that there was no greater lineage the woman could have than to bear his own child, and rather than call upon his magic, he forced himself upon her. When the deed was done, he vanished, returning to the City of Brass.
When the boy was born, the woman tried to bring herself to toss him to the wild, that she would never have to see the fruit of her shame, but she could not bring herself to abandon her own son. She gave him the name of Agnos Efreeti, and fled to raise him alone. She kept him from the world, urging him to keep his power and lineage a secret, but he always yearned for adventure. Now at 17 years of age, Agnos has heard the call for help from the rajah's men, and seeks to join the crew he sends into the mysterious depths of Old Padiskar.
Agnos offers the old man a quick greeting in Ignan, the strange, popping language he's instinctively spoken all his life, then reverts to either Taldane or Vudrani, whichever his host began in.
1. What do you offer the expedition? What are you best at?
"I cannot call myself wise in the ways of the world, my friend, but there is a fire within me that calls me to adventure."
To demonstrate, the young man simply snaps his fingers, and a small flame erupts from his hand, no larger than a candle.
"There would be more, but I have no desire to alarm you."
2. What areas do you struggle in?
"Wonderful question, my friend. As I said, I am inexperienced, but it may also be important that I note how difficult it is to light a fire in water. If forced into such a situation, I fear I have no way to protect myself."
3. Have you any experience with Vudra or the Vudrani?
"Of course. I must say it is a shame we have not been formally introduced, but I still call Padiskar home. You will understand if I am not eager to speak of my family history, I am certain."
4. What training, formal or otherwise, might you have that would be helpful to this expedition?
"A bit young for formal training, aren't I? No, I am afraid I have little to offer besides my natural talents."
5. Do you have any duties or obligations that could conflict with our expedition? Would you explain them to me?
"None at all, my friend. I am happy to help."