Sparhawk smiles, allowing Tess to do the talking to see how she operates. While doing so, he also observed Cha!jil. Making sure his new potential companions were suitable for the job was important. He also considered if Tess would benefit from a magical shield. He wondered if they could find a good price on one.
Then he snapped back to the current situation, keenly aware of his awkward armor and large size in the space.
"Kwalish, you say. Well, it sounds like you do indeed need to speak with Anaxi, himself. One moment, please."
The modron looks up from his work momentarily before returning to his drawing. Garrett raps at the door of an office in the back of the shop. "Master Xephries, there are some ... people here. They say they are looking for a map of the Kwalish expedition."
The teiflting waits patiently, though there is jo reply. Several long solenoids later, the door creaks open. In the doorway stands a balding gnome, lavishly dressed in a green coat with spotless dai ry ehite cuffs and a ruffled collar protruding from beneath, his remaining hair styled with care and in his hand, a large hand carved pipe.
"Whats this about, then? Have you only now heard the stories of the village of glass?"
(OOC, Tess also has access to Teleportation Circle- she would like to learn the sigil sequence for a circle in town, if there is such available, for emergency travel return- ig available she will purchase the material components for the spell)
If you do end up wishing to sail around the coast, that can be arranged. The harbor Master can point the way. If you don't want follow rivers or overland routes.
"Ah, hello my friend. If it isn't the well-known and extremely knowledgable Anaxi Zephries." Sparhawk holds his hand out in greeting. "I told my doubtful friends, Tess and Cha!jil that you are THE best merchant in town both for your maps but also for your knowledge." Sparhawk smiles at him as he continues. "There are so many false rumors out there about the village of glass, the lair of Iggwilv, the barrier peaks. Please, set us straight with the most current and reliable information. Indeed, also, some maps of the shortest and safest way to get there and...once there, any information on the inside would be greatly appreciated."
Sparhawk pull out his basic map of Chult, and encourages Anaxi to use it if needed to show routes, etc.
The gnome seems to warm to the recognition, "I see my reputation precedes me." he intones. "You speak of many things, good sir, of which O may have some knowledge. This Iggwillv you mention, I am already I do not recognize. As to the Peaks, I see even on your map they are clearly marked. Yet, as with most maps, the accuracy of the more remote areas is quite poor. Not thay mapping them would be the easiest thing even if they were your own back yard, mind."
After scrutinizing the map Sparhawk holds for a moment more, he concludes "This map is woefully inadequate." Anaxi turns to look at the modron working in the corner. "Gearbox, please provide them wirh a suitable course to reach the Peaks while we discuss business."
The route marked in the map my associate is rendering now is the same followed by the great Kwalish, whose arcane apparatus are k own across the Realms. He led an expedition to the Peaks, hoping to find the glass village of whixh you speak, Daoine Gloine. I'll be direct. You are not the first expedition I have aided in their efforts to reach this place. I do not know what dangers lay ahead, beyond what all know to dwell in Chult, of course, but none have yet returned to me qith the small thing I have asked of each. Namely, Kwalish's journal. Whatever he found there, surely it must be marvelous, but what I hope to find are the final sketches he must have made on his path of invention. My suspicion is that there exist today far more inventions of Kwalish thst do not bear his name, but rightly should. The proof, I believe, lies within the pages of his journal, lost ages ago along with him."
"I figured the map I had was not the best, so we greatly appreciate your detailed route." Sparhawk smiles, studying the map. Sparhawk points to the T-Rex claws on his sheathed greatsword, "Based on what I have experienced in Chult, I wouldn't be surprised if many never even made it to the destination. He touches a now-healed injury to his ribs in memory of his encounter with the beast."What known dangers lie on this route and as we get to the actual location, what information have you of the barrier peaks themselves, and any caverns or caves in that area, rumors or details? Please, leave nothing out as we certainly do not want to meet the fate of those before us."
(If any of the PC's are observant, you see that Sparhawk is a master at persuasion, using both sincerity and genuine friendliness as he tries to encourage the man to produce more helpful information on their behalf. He seems the type of person who has the uncanny ability to make friends with almost anyone in short order.)
(OOC: Is the gnome asking us to bring him Kwalish's journal?)
"The Barrier Peaks have long been damned, ever since a craft of some kind crashed there ages ago. A ship that could navigate the very planes, it was. Things that should not exist escaped from its hold and now populate the mountains.
Aye, most folk know of Kwalish’s most famous realized design, the apparatus that bears his name. But sages and arcanists know of other designs he drafted, including one for a mechanical container that could keep a brain alive long after a creature’s death.
Kwalish’s grand experiment? I’ve heard tell of a suit of armor as powerful as it is cursed. Whoever dons the suit channels powerful magic, but must fuel its capabilities with their own body’s vitality. Such is the treasure of the journal I hopw to receive in reuruen for the knowledge i provide you"
Dangers, there are more than a few: Daoine Gloine took its name from the monster kept there by the city’s priests. They would sacrifice victims to the medusa Gloine Nathair-Nathair, using the bodies of those poor victims as the city’s statuary. More recently, there's the matter of the last expedition I sent. With them I sent as a guide a vile creature, imprisoned long ago, and under control. As the party has not returned, the undead creature, Ctenmiir, I fear, may have been set free. This all, in addition to the standard horrors Chult provides."
As Anaxi wraps up, Gearbox approaches timidly, newly drawn map in hand. "Your map, Mister Xephries." the modron offers, holding the parchment out. "Also, I did not wish to interrupt or speak out of tuen, but I have indeed heard of the Witch Queen Iggwillv"
<Yes, that's the deal. That's why he's giving g you the map, plus...>
The monodrone launches into a longwinded lore dump:
"Well, the Witch Queen is known throughout the planes, she consorts with Demons, binds them fiercely and uses them to her own purpose. She is known by many names, including Tasha, author of some spells known by natives of this world, as well as Hura of Ket and Zybilna. Truly a mother of monsters, her progeny are notorious for their cruelty and power."
"Does that thingamabob have a mute button?" Garrett interrupts, sarcastically.
Undeterred, Gearbox continues, "Notably, she is the author of a collection of demonic knowledge, the Demonomicon of Iggwilv. Demons, of course, are always trying to spread chaos throughout tbe cosmos. As a subject of Mechanus, one of my primary directives is to hinder the spread of thjs chaos, thus, it is my duty to investigate this lair you speak of. For it may well hold the secrets of Demon binding and the truenames of some of the greatest threats to law and order in the multiverse."
Turning to Anaxi, the modron ask "Mister Xephries, I have toiled without pay for seven thousand seven hundred and eighty six days. I request to accompany these adventurers in search if the witch-queen's lair, and retur. With the journal yoi seek, should we find it. May I please be excused for this purpose, if it please you, sir?"
The gnome considers the robot's words. "If the party of tbe first part concedes that they will return you to me in one piece or face a stiff financial penalty, I would agree to let you go. I can pay you 40,000 gold for the journal, but if you return without my modron, or he is a pile of cogs and springs when I see him next, you get nothing. Return with neither, and you'll owe me 60,000 gold. You've just heard the labor cost I'll incur to replace him, have you not? What say you, adventurers?"
Sparhawk looks at the group, eyes raised at the steep price, then looks at the robot. "Hum, well with all due respect my new friend, I'm not sure if your presence is required, and taking on a huge financial liability is of no interest to me."
"I like that you are interested in as you say, hindering the spread of chaos." he says to the strange robot. "Anaxi, in order for me to agree to bring you the journal, I need two things. First, for my associates to agree that bringing back the journal is wise. And second, I would need your oath that you would only use the knowledge in the journal to better our world, help Chult and surrounding territories, and not take aggressive or powerful action against any of the inhabitants here, including the creation of powerful weapon or artifact that could cause harm. To assure this, we would agree on a person of high repute and our liking to be your partner in these endeavors, such as a cleric or wizard to keep the ethics and goals clear in the use of the information. No one person should have access to this type of knowledge, as I have seen again and again the results of this choice lead to their ruin and unforeseen consequences.
Sparhawk again looks at his friends for any feedback. (OOC: The finders fee is ridiculously huge, so makes me very suspicious)
"As you have said, no expedition has returned, so it would be quite foolish to agree to your terms. As to your associate wanting to join us, he is a being of free will, not a thing that I will take on loan from you. Like taking on a student or ward, I will grant him my protection as a paladin and swear to you to do everything in my power to bring him back in one piece. You know of my reputation, and you know I am a man of my word. (Sparhawk opens his Aura of Protection to all in the room: +3 to all saving throws, then he closes his will, and the aura fades). If I find his motives to be false, or not in the best interests of our true mission, my retribution will be swift." Sparhawk grips the shaft of his sheathed long sword, smiling, his meaning quite clear.
"Let me see what my associates think about him joining us and about your offer for the journal."
“I am not opposed to taking this quest on, as part of our broader mission, or having another companion to assist. But there are risks in any venture such as this- Do not send your companion if you fear the loss. We cannot be held responsible, although I, too, will do what I can to prevent the destruction.”. Tess adds, looking at the materials
Sparhawk glances in Tess, verifying her statement. "For us to agree to bring back this journal, if we even can find it, I would ask that we involve Mother Sibonseni, the chief priest of Waukeen in this area as she is known to always do what is good for the city. This would create what I've heard call, a system of checks and balances as you decifer the journal and determine what items to pursue and which to avoid."
Sparhawk looks back at the gnomish merchant.
"So, if this is agreeable to you, I will call on my deity to oversee our agreement and assure that there is no deception by any party here, including Gearbox. I would strongly encourage all to speak the truth, as this partnership could be quite lucrative for all involved." Sparhawk makes a quick motion, weaving a spell as he chants words in Orchish (Zone of Truth: DC Charisma Save 15 for all in the room.
You create a magical zone that guards against deception in a 15-foot-radius sphere centered on a point of your choice within range. Until the spell ends, a creature that enters the spell's area for the first time on a turn or starts its turn there must make a Charisma saving throw. On a failed save, a creature can't speak a deliberate lie while in the radius. You know whether each creature succeeds or fails on its saving throw.
An affected creature is aware of the spell and can thus avoid answering questions to which it would normally respond with a lie. Such a creature can be evasive in its answers as long as it remains within the boundaries of the truth.
"So let us begin" Sparhawk smiles, his spell complete. "Anaxi and Gearbox, do you agree to the terms of our party's protection, without the promise for of a fee if you or the rest of us do not return?"
"Second, Gearbox, do you have any hidden motive or agenda that you have not shared with me?"
"Third, Anaxi, did you leave out any information that we should know about this Journal?"
"Do you agree that if we bring back the Journal, you will partner Mother Sibonseni, creating firm controls on what is used from this Journal, with an oath to not harm the people or land, and only use any said inventions for the betterment of the land and its people, and ...do you agree to not create any weapons?"
Like a trained inspector, Sparhawk will patiently wait for each response, watching the person's eyes and mannerisms for any sign of deception.
The gnome grins, patiently, "Captain, it is certainly not I, alone, who cannot escape his notoriety. Stay your sword and I'll thank you to keep your unbidden spellcclasting to yourself within my place of business.
You are wise to question a merchant's motives, but foolish to trust priests and wizards, though I doubt I will move you to abandon your zealous piety, I can say with some certainty that for every honorable one you'll find two or three to rob you blind, smiling the whole while, the former crying alms, the latter cackling madly with power.
That aside, I assure you I am honest in my dealings. I do not tell just anyone this, but, you see, Kwalish was, in fact, my great grandfather. His legacy is my birthright, and while I have grown wealthy trading in on my predilection for rare cartographic specimens, I have always longed for a piece of that legacy in my own hand. If my price seems high, it only means that you are more honest than most. The value if the journal, aside feom it's sentimental worth, is potentially astronomical. Such an artifact would never make it back to my hands if I did not offer such an extravagant sum.
As for Gearbox, he is an indentured servant. The Fraternity of Order made a deal with Primus ages ago and this modron will remain in the service of Kwalish' heir for the seven and twenty years hence, per the terms. The modron has no choice, indeed, no will, beyond fulfilling the orders of Mechanus, and wven if he did, woe unto he who breaks such a covenant as was signed to seal this transaction. I know not all the details, but I am quite certain it would be an unpleasant turn of events. If he travels with you as a guide, he is acting in my service, but if he is lost, I will need to hire a replacement for all the free labor, and likelt somw degree of training will be required to approach matching the precision and speed of this automaton. But I ask noncollater9l, and shoukd you fail to find the journal, you owe me nothing, so long as Grarbox is returned safely to me."
At this, Anaxi extends a hand, opene-palmed and ready to shake. "So, do we have a deal?"
Impatiently, Gearbox bounces in place on spring-loaded lower limbs, wings flapping excitedly. "Aww, please take me with you. I can be useful. My programming allows me to function as both an orb of time and an orb of direction, plus i can do this," at rhis he touches a globe sitting in a cradle expressly designed to hold it, and the stone sphere illuminates the room. "I am also very handy with mechanical equipment, labware and a variety of vehicles. I can even help open mundane locks, should the need arise."
Xephires appears unammused, "take him or leave him, those are the terms. Do we have a deal?"
The stubborn and willful Captain Sparhawk does not bring his hand out, his code and ethics clear in his resolve, “I thank you for your reasonableness with Gearbox, Master Xephries. We will do what we can to bring him and indeed ourselves back, although if I die, I cannot comply.“
“As to the journal, I understand it is a family heirloom and I respect your interest in it Anaxi. But to be clear with you my friend, my group is not motivated by money, we have a higher purpose in our mission, and the promise of riches and the recovery of items within are not among them. We will not agree to your terms unless you agree to have a third party help oversee the safety of Chult if we recover this artifact, the journal you speak of and notes. Grandfather Zitembe, head priest of the temple of Savras would also be acceptable if Mother Sibonseni is not.
His patience and generosity waning, Sparhawk pulls out a small coin pouch, drops it on the counter, and prepares to leave, beginning to head to the door of the shop.
As he walks out, his eyes on the exit, "Time is precious and what I have sensed at the Barrier Peaks must be dealt with in haste. These are my terms, else we will simply pay you for your maps and information and be on our way.
Sparhawk smiles, allowing Tess to do the talking to see how she operates. While doing so, he also observed Cha!jil. Making sure his new potential companions were suitable for the job was important. He also considered if Tess would benefit from a magical shield. He wondered if they could find a good price on one.
Then he snapped back to the current situation, keenly aware of his awkward armor and large size in the space.
(Tess would gladly borrow some gold for 50 GP in material components for teleportation circle, a potion of healing, some other things.)
(Ooc: let’s put together a list of stuff we might want
I’m think g scrolls or potions of healing
scroll of bless
scroll of speak la guages
scroll of detect traps
depending on route;’s row boat
scroll of cure disease?
+1 shield
Permanent circles of Faerûn and beyond.
"Kwalish, you say. Well, it sounds like you do indeed need to speak with Anaxi, himself. One moment, please."
The modron looks up from his work momentarily before returning to his drawing. Garrett raps at the door of an office in the back of the shop. "Master Xephries, there are some ... people here. They say they are looking for a map of the Kwalish expedition."
The teiflting waits patiently, though there is jo reply. Several long solenoids later, the door creaks open. In the doorway stands a balding gnome, lavishly dressed in a green coat with spotless dai ry ehite cuffs and a ruffled collar protruding from beneath, his remaining hair styled with care and in his hand, a large hand carved pipe.
"Whats this about, then? Have you only now heard the stories of the village of glass?"
https://www.reddit.com/r/Tombofannihilation/s/6B7el6D0ec
Someone had a lot of fun toying with the idea of portals in Chult.
If you do end up wishing to sail around the coast, that can be arranged. The harbor Master can point the way. If you don't want follow rivers or overland routes.
"Ah, hello my friend. If it isn't the well-known and extremely knowledgable Anaxi Zephries." Sparhawk holds his hand out in greeting. "I told my doubtful friends, Tess and Cha!jil that you are THE best merchant in town both for your maps but also for your knowledge."
Sparhawk smiles at him as he continues.
"There are so many false rumors out there about the village of glass, the lair of Iggwilv, the barrier peaks. Please, set us straight with the most current and reliable information. Indeed, also, some maps of the shortest and safest way to get there and...once there, any information on the inside would be greatly appreciated."
Sparhawk pull out his basic map of Chult, and encourages Anaxi to use it if needed to show routes, etc.
The gnome seems to warm to the recognition, "I see my reputation precedes me." he intones. "You speak of many things, good sir, of which O may have some knowledge. This Iggwillv you mention, I am already I do not recognize. As to the Peaks, I see even on your map they are clearly marked. Yet, as with most maps, the accuracy of the more remote areas is quite poor. Not thay mapping them would be the easiest thing even if they were your own back yard, mind."
After scrutinizing the map Sparhawk holds for a moment more, he concludes "This map is woefully inadequate." Anaxi turns to look at the modron working in the corner. "Gearbox, please provide them wirh a suitable course to reach the Peaks while we discuss business."
The route marked in the map my associate is rendering now is the same followed by the great Kwalish, whose arcane apparatus are k own across the Realms. He led an expedition to the Peaks, hoping to find the glass village of whixh you speak, Daoine Gloine. I'll be direct. You are not the first expedition I have aided in their efforts to reach this place. I do not know what dangers lay ahead, beyond what all know to dwell in Chult, of course, but none have yet returned to me qith the small thing I have asked of each. Namely, Kwalish's journal. Whatever he found there, surely it must be marvelous, but what I hope to find are the final sketches he must have made on his path of invention. My suspicion is that there exist today far more inventions of Kwalish thst do not bear his name, but rightly should. The proof, I believe, lies within the pages of his journal, lost ages ago along with him."
"I figured the map I had was not the best, so we greatly appreciate your detailed route." Sparhawk smiles, studying the map. Sparhawk points to the T-Rex claws on his sheathed greatsword, "Based on what I have experienced in Chult, I wouldn't be surprised if many never even made it to the destination. He touches a now-healed injury to his ribs in memory of his encounter with the beast. "What known dangers lie on this route and as we get to the actual location, what information have you of the barrier peaks themselves, and any caverns or caves in that area, rumors or details? Please, leave nothing out as we certainly do not want to meet the fate of those before us."
(If any of the PC's are observant, you see that Sparhawk is a master at persuasion, using both sincerity and genuine friendliness as he tries to encourage the man to produce more helpful information on their behalf. He seems the type of person who has the uncanny ability to make friends with almost anyone in short order.)
(OOC: Is the gnome asking us to bring him Kwalish's journal?)
"The Barrier Peaks have long been damned, ever since a craft of some kind crashed there ages ago. A ship that could navigate the very planes, it was. Things that should not exist escaped from its hold and now populate the mountains.
Aye, most folk know of Kwalish’s most famous realized design, the apparatus that bears his name. But sages and arcanists know of other designs he drafted, including one for a mechanical container that could keep a brain alive long after a creature’s death.
Kwalish’s grand experiment? I’ve heard tell of a suit of armor as powerful as it is cursed. Whoever dons the suit channels powerful magic, but must fuel its capabilities with their own body’s vitality. Such is the treasure of the journal I hopw to receive in reuruen for the knowledge i provide you"
Dangers, there are more than a few: Daoine Gloine took its name from the monster kept there by the city’s priests. They would sacrifice victims to the medusa Gloine Nathair-Nathair, using the bodies of those poor victims as the city’s statuary. More recently, there's the matter of the last expedition I sent. With them I sent as a guide a vile creature, imprisoned long ago, and under control. As the party has not returned, the undead creature, Ctenmiir, I fear, may have been set free. This all, in addition to the standard horrors Chult provides."
As Anaxi wraps up, Gearbox approaches timidly, newly drawn map in hand. "Your map, Mister Xephries." the modron offers, holding the parchment out. "Also, I did not wish to interrupt or speak out of tuen, but I have indeed heard of the Witch Queen Iggwillv"
<Yes, that's the deal. That's why he's giving g you the map, plus...>
“And tell us what have you heard of this witch queen?”
Sparhawk looks to his companions, “Do you have additional questions? Then we can discuss our… concerns.”
The monodrone launches into a longwinded lore dump:
"Well, the Witch Queen is known throughout the planes, she consorts with Demons, binds them fiercely and uses them to her own purpose. She is known by many names, including Tasha, author of some spells known by natives of this world, as well as Hura of Ket and Zybilna. Truly a mother of monsters, her progeny are notorious for their cruelty and power."
"Does that thingamabob have a mute button?" Garrett interrupts, sarcastically.
Undeterred, Gearbox continues, "Notably, she is the author of a collection of demonic knowledge, the Demonomicon of Iggwilv. Demons, of course, are always trying to spread chaos throughout tbe cosmos. As a subject of Mechanus, one of my primary directives is to hinder the spread of thjs chaos, thus, it is my duty to investigate this lair you speak of. For it may well hold the secrets of Demon binding and the truenames of some of the greatest threats to law and order in the multiverse."
Turning to Anaxi, the modron ask "Mister Xephries, I have toiled without pay for seven thousand seven hundred and eighty six days. I request to accompany these adventurers in search if the witch-queen's lair, and retur. With the journal yoi seek, should we find it. May I please be excused for this purpose, if it please you, sir?"
The gnome considers the robot's words. "If the party of tbe first part concedes that they will return you to me in one piece or face a stiff financial penalty, I would agree to let you go. I can pay you 40,000 gold for the journal, but if you return without my modron, or he is a pile of cogs and springs when I see him next, you get nothing. Return with neither, and you'll owe me 60,000 gold. You've just heard the labor cost I'll incur to replace him, have you not? What say you, adventurers?"
Sparhawk looks at the group, eyes raised at the steep price, then looks at the robot.
"Hum, well with all due respect my new friend, I'm not sure if your presence is required, and taking on a huge financial liability is of no interest to me."
"I like that you are interested in as you say, hindering the spread of chaos." he says to the strange robot. "Anaxi, in order for me to agree to bring you the journal, I need two things. First, for my associates to agree that bringing back the journal is wise. And second, I would need your oath that you would only use the knowledge in the journal to better our world, help Chult and surrounding territories, and not take aggressive or powerful action against any of the inhabitants here, including the creation of powerful weapon or artifact that could cause harm. To assure this, we would agree on a person of high repute and our liking to be your partner in these endeavors, such as a cleric or wizard to keep the ethics and goals clear in the use of the information. No one person should have access to this type of knowledge, as I have seen again and again the results of this choice lead to their ruin and unforeseen consequences.
Sparhawk again looks at his friends for any feedback. (OOC: The finders fee is ridiculously huge, so makes me very suspicious)
"As you have said, no expedition has returned, so it would be quite foolish to agree to your terms. As to your associate wanting to join us, he is a being of free will, not a thing that I will take on loan from you. Like taking on a student or ward, I will grant him my protection as a paladin and swear to you to do everything in my power to bring him back in one piece. You know of my reputation, and you know I am a man of my word. (Sparhawk opens his Aura of Protection to all in the room: +3 to all saving throws, then he closes his will, and the aura fades). If I find his motives to be false, or not in the best interests of our true mission, my retribution will be swift." Sparhawk grips the shaft of his sheathed long sword, smiling, his meaning quite clear.
"Let me see what my associates think about him joining us and about your offer for the journal."
“I am not opposed to taking this quest on, as part of our broader mission, or having another companion to assist. But there are risks in any venture such as this- Do not send your companion if you fear the loss. We cannot be held responsible, although I, too, will do what I can to prevent the destruction.”. Tess adds, looking at the materials
Sparhawk glances in Tess, verifying her statement. "For us to agree to bring back this journal, if we even can find it, I would ask that we involve Mother Sibonseni, the chief priest of Waukeen in this area as she is known to always do what is good for the city. This would create what I've heard call, a system of checks and balances as you decifer the journal and determine what items to pursue and which to avoid."
Sparhawk looks back at the gnomish merchant.
"So, if this is agreeable to you, I will call on my deity to oversee our agreement and assure that there is no deception by any party here, including Gearbox. I would strongly encourage all to speak the truth, as this partnership could be quite lucrative for all involved."
Sparhawk makes a quick motion, weaving a spell as he chants words in Orchish (Zone of Truth: DC Charisma Save 15 for all in the room.
You create a magical zone that guards against deception in a 15-foot-radius sphere centered on a point of your choice within range. Until the spell ends, a creature that enters the spell's area for the first time on a turn or starts its turn there must make a Charisma saving throw. On a failed save, a creature can't speak a deliberate lie while in the radius. You know whether each creature succeeds or fails on its saving throw.
An affected creature is aware of the spell and can thus avoid answering questions to which it would normally respond with a lie. Such a creature can be evasive in its answers as long as it remains within the boundaries of the truth.
"So let us begin" Sparhawk smiles, his spell complete. "Anaxi and Gearbox, do you agree to the terms of our party's protection, without the promise for of a fee if you or the rest of us do not return?"
"Second, Gearbox, do you have any hidden motive or agenda that you have not shared with me?"
"Third, Anaxi, did you leave out any information that we should know about this Journal?"
"Do you agree that if we bring back the Journal, you will partner Mother Sibonseni, creating firm controls on what is used from this Journal, with an oath to not harm the people or land, and only use any said inventions for the betterment of the land and its people, and ...do you agree to not create any weapons?"
Like a trained inspector, Sparhawk will patiently wait for each response, watching the person's eyes and mannerisms for any sign of deception.
The gnome grins, patiently, "Captain, it is certainly not I, alone, who cannot escape his notoriety. Stay your sword and I'll thank you to keep your unbidden spellcclasting to yourself within my place of business.
You are wise to question a merchant's motives, but foolish to trust priests and wizards, though I doubt I will move you to abandon your zealous piety, I can say with some certainty that for every honorable one you'll find two or three to rob you blind, smiling the whole while, the former crying alms, the latter cackling madly with power.
That aside, I assure you I am honest in my dealings. I do not tell just anyone this, but, you see, Kwalish was, in fact, my great grandfather. His legacy is my birthright, and while I have grown wealthy trading in on my predilection for rare cartographic specimens, I have always longed for a piece of that legacy in my own hand. If my price seems high, it only means that you are more honest than most. The value if the journal, aside feom it's sentimental worth, is potentially astronomical. Such an artifact would never make it back to my hands if I did not offer such an extravagant sum.
As for Gearbox, he is an indentured servant. The Fraternity of Order made a deal with Primus ages ago and this modron will remain in the service of Kwalish' heir for the seven and twenty years hence, per the terms. The modron has no choice, indeed, no will, beyond fulfilling the orders of Mechanus, and wven if he did, woe unto he who breaks such a covenant as was signed to seal this transaction. I know not all the details, but I am quite certain it would be an unpleasant turn of events. If he travels with you as a guide, he is acting in my service, but if he is lost, I will need to hire a replacement for all the free labor, and likelt somw degree of training will be required to approach matching the precision and speed of this automaton. But I ask noncollater9l, and shoukd you fail to find the journal, you owe me nothing, so long as Grarbox is returned safely to me."
At this, Anaxi extends a hand, opene-palmed and ready to shake. "So, do we have a deal?"
Impatiently, Gearbox bounces in place on spring-loaded lower limbs, wings flapping excitedly. "Aww, please take me with you. I can be useful. My programming allows me to function as both an orb of time and an orb of direction, plus i can do this," at rhis he touches a globe sitting in a cradle expressly designed to hold it, and the stone sphere illuminates the room. "I am also very handy with mechanical equipment, labware and a variety of vehicles. I can even help open mundane locks, should the need arise."
Xephires appears unammused, "take him or leave him, those are the terms. Do we have a deal?"
The stubborn and willful Captain Sparhawk does not bring his hand out, his code and ethics clear in his resolve, “I thank you for your reasonableness with Gearbox, Master Xephries. We will do what we can to bring him and indeed ourselves back, although if I die, I cannot comply.“
“As to the journal, I understand it is a family heirloom and I respect your interest in it Anaxi. But to be clear with you my friend, my group is not motivated by money, we have a higher purpose in our mission, and the promise of riches and the recovery of items within are not among them. We will not agree to your terms unless you agree to have a third party help oversee the safety of Chult if we recover this artifact, the journal you speak of and notes. Grandfather Zitembe, head priest of the temple of Savras would also be acceptable if Mother Sibonseni is not.
His patience and generosity waning, Sparhawk pulls out a small coin pouch, drops it on the counter, and prepares to leave, beginning to head to the door of the shop.
As he walks out, his eyes on the exit, "Time is precious and what I have sensed at the Barrier Peaks must be dealt with in haste. These are my terms, else we will simply pay you for your maps and information and be on our way.