Cimeri just (re-)introduced herself and was about to thank Chord for answers (though at the moment she was even more confused about customs of this dazzling land) when party (Celtra, but of course they would go too) got the invitation they could not refuse. Cimeri though just for a moment. She turned back to Chord: "You do not owe me anything but can I ask you for help? Couldyou send someone to Prince Wakanga and inform him and his guest - Lady Syndra Sylvane about our troubles? I will pay to the messenger."
Bryn would stand tall behind the others, arms crossed, listening to this bard with open ears. She listened to the way she spoke and to the words she was telling them. When Chord would ask who they were the druid would simply respond, "I am Bryn. Thank you for your wisdom." and she'd nod a greeting to the bard.
Hearing the commotion at the door, Bryn would turn her attention to that area of the room. Noticing the Goliah bouncer first, she'd look him up and down before glancing over at the human woman who just finished brushing passed him. She'd furrow her brows and reach a hand towards her spear from the sudden approach of this woman towards her new team.
Tangle puts his hand on Cimeri's shoulder and calmly says, "Cimeri, if a merchant prince desired us arrested or killed, we would not be escorted to his presence. Let us be calm, hold our assumptions, and see where this takes us."
Fulcra's ability to be serious and diplomatic at a moments notice, clashes with his normal odd and sometimes insulting behavior, like a schizm in your mind.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
The change in Fulcra's attitude was sure surprising, and to add to confusion, Cimeri was not so sure in her idea to begin with. But expedition was not their own, and Lady Sylvane had probably be informed about possible complications, had not she? She looked at Fulcra, at both tall women, rivalling Goliaths bouncers in their posture ... Truly, why was she worrying?
"He is right,"she bowed to Chord. "Thank you for explanations and warnings. Let we meet again." Cimeri stood by Celtra and looked the officer (?) in the eye "I was at the race too and no less responsible. We will follow you to the Prince."
The woman nods at you calmly, continuing to disburse bread. "If that story would be true, it is quite disturbing… yet I still see no reason to trust you. Would you be willing to convince me of your good intentions by deed?"
@The others:
Somber Chord hears your statements but holds up a paw. "You have done me a favor; I owe you a favor in return." She leans close so only Cimeri hears:
@Cimeri:
"I know this one", she nods at the shaven-headed warrior. "This is not good news for you. I will help you myself."
Somber Chord gracefully gathers her lute and moves out the door at a brisk walk.
The shaven-headed woman leads you out of Kaya's and the Red Bazaar, turning west and south past the harbor and Fort Nyanzaru. The woman leads the way, the other dark clad chultans flanking and behind you. Crowds part for this pale woman as she walks forward, deference being shown clearly.
It's not a short walk back to the Grand Souk and the Merchant Ward, where you assume the Prince's Villa would be; you look up the hill longingly to the Villa of Wakanga O'Tamu, but the woman continues moving west.
As another crowd parts for her, the way is blocked by a hulking half-orc, barrel-chested, grey-green skin glistening with sweat; he holds a large cudgel in one hand, tapping the end in his other.
"Seena," barks the half-orc, barely tipping his head back.
"Varag," returns Seena, the shaven-headed woman.
"These visitors are summoned to Goldenthrone to speak before the Merchant Princes; I will accompany them from here," states the half-orc, smacking the cudgel loudly.
Seena visibly bristles at the announcement, sunburned skin becoming brighter red. "Merchant Prince Talro'a has requested their presence at his villa."
"Merchant Prince Talro'a can join the other princes at Goldenthrone then," rumbles the half-orc.
There's a tense moment between the two before Seena backs down. "I will take this message to Prince Talro'a; he will not be pleased."
"Talro'a's pleasure is unfortunately not my concern," says Varag with a bow, and watches Seena stalk away. He turns to Fulcra, Celtra and Cimeri, noting Bryn as well. "She'll get over it. Follow me." He plucks a toothpick from behind his ear and works something from behind his tusk as he turns to a stair that leads to the overpass over the Grand Souk.
At the top of the stair, you recognize Wakanga O'Tamu's villa to the southeast, connected to where you stand by an overpass; in front of you is Goldenthrone, the palatial seat of government of Port Nyanzaru. While a large building of impressive stonework, it's not as beautiful as Wakanga's villa nor the temples you've seen here; it's clear this is a government building.
Varag leads you inside past several gladiator-turned-guards with spears and ornamental masks to a waiting area where you stand with several other people. "Somber cashed in a favor for you," Varag says to Cimeri, "but you got no appointment. Gonna have to wait a bit."
You wait a couple hours in boredom, until Taman joins you. Shortly therafter you're summoned by Varag.
[Taman, don't sweat, a messenger will find you with Eku after a bit and bring you here, you can still continue the conversation with Eku]
You're led into an airy, circular chamber with seven thrones, each occupied by… yup, Merchant Princes.
With no preamble or introduction, a 'prince', a ripped, broadfaced woman speaks from her throne.
"We are told you stopped the races yesterday. Who are you and what say you about this charge?"
"And what sort of deed would you have me do for you to prove this?" Taman asks. "You should know that I will not forsake my mission, or put it in danger, just to make you feel you can trust me..."
Taman: “Of course not. I would ask you to ask the beggar princes of the Old City, here, if they needed any help. In fact, I happen to know they do; several children have gone missing in the Old City in the last few days”.
Celtra took a step forward and stared hard at woman then said in a stern voice, "Race? They reported that I stopped a race?" She lets out a heavy laugh. "No, what I stopped was chaos. The city was under attack. Orders were given to stop the race and onlookers to return to their homes for safety. The beasts were already panicked and threatening civilians. I did what was needed to ensure their safety." She holds her head up with pride. "Oh, for your other question, I am Celtra.
Fulcra stands quietly, his eyes scanning the room, taking in the various details, but also attempting to pay careful attention to how the merchant princes interact with each other. Unless asked directly himself a question, he remains quiet.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Cimeri gratefully nodded to Varag - indeed, even if she did not understand the depth of danger, the power struggle was obvious and it did not look like Prince Wakanga and Prince Talro'a were good friends. Not after what Chord had said.
Cimeri stepped forward, standing by Celtra, bowed to the Princes and firmly proclaimed: "My name is Cimeri, I witnessed the event and participated to my best in resolving the situation. I here testify that neither me nor Celtra stopped the race. The animals were running wild, some without people guiding them. They were fighting each other, threatening the crowd and destroying everything on their way. What we did was done to protect people after the race was no more."
"As I figured, what you ask would take me away from the mission I cannot forsake." Taman says with a sad smile. "As much as I would like to help with these disappearances, we are planning on leaving the city as soon as possible, and I cannot take the time away from the task at hand." He gets to his feet. "I was hoping to gain your thoughts on what Grandfather Zitembe saw in his vision..." He continues, figuring why not speak it... "Savras showed him a jungle city far to the south, enclosed by cliffs and crawling with snakes. These were not snakes of nature; he believe Savras was telling him these snakes were evil, or magical. In the city was a black obelisk, covered in vines. pure evil was coming from the obelisk." Taman gives her a moment to decide if she wishes to speak or not, then will bow respectfully if she does not and turn to leave. "Your disappearances are a grave issue, to be certain, but they are not the only issues facing the world, and I need to do what is right by those who depend on me as well." He informs her.
Bryn would stand tall and silent alongside Fulcra. And she too would be scanning the area and watching the individuals in the room. This matter did not directly involve her, but she ought to pay attention and be aware of the past and present in order to be prepared for the future.
[OOC: This post is for Taman only, need more time to write descriptions of Merchant Princes, will come later]
Eku smiles wryly at you, adjusting her light blue robes. "Some might say that all good deeds would lead you along the path to what you seek, but I understand your haste." She stands. "Taman of Azuth, I still do not trust that your heart is in the right place. But you are the first adventurer to come to me, to ask me to guide them, who has a purpose other than plundering the riches of Chult. You know my agenda; I am here for the good of Chult. I will not abide the slaying of innocents, nor the wanton plunder of our tombs for wealth's sake. Should you acquire treasure while cleansing evil from some of our places of power, that is your right, and I would hope you put that wealth to a use for good."
She picks up a walking staff carved in the likeness of a stylized couatl. "If you are still seeking a guide, here are my terms: until I can judge that you and your party are not grave robbers, my fee is 6 gold per day instead of 5. The upfront payment would be 180 gold, for 30 days of guidance. Should you plunder any tombs or kill innocents during those 30 days I reserve the right to abandon you to your fate. If you help me cleanse any areas I ask for assistance with, should they be on our forward path, I may reduce my rate or work for no fee at all. Think on that. I have a couple of ideas where your city might be, and also know of a resource that could help us get more information." She smiles to herself. "I say 'us', but you have not yet hired me."
At this point a lad runs up to you. "Taman of Azuth? You are required for an audience with the Merchant Princes at Goldenthrone. Please follow me at once!"
"Goldenthrone," says Eku. "Interesting indeed... would you mind if I tagged along? We can negotiate or not on the way..."
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Follow if you wish." Taman says with a nod. he heads off after the messenger. "So you know, I am not here to hire you. we have a guide, I chose to seek you out as someone who seems to know much about these lands, and who truly seems concerned about the wellfare of the jungle itself. I would appreciate learning whom we should seek out in regard to learning more about this city of snakes, but understand if you do not wish to give that information, due to not being our guide."
(I will say he was up front with his reasons for being there. He wanted to 'pick her brain' and that was it. He never even once mentioned hiring her... After all she was the one who said she was not interested, he figured she was a good bet for someone to talk with, without any worry about the hiring piece of it being an issue.)
[Taman's events had happened prior to the start of the hearing in Goldenthrone, so he was there with you all when you were led in front of the Merchant Princes]
A man sitting next to the speaker jumps to his feet as Cimeri finishes. "You will address us as Merchant Princes!" he yells, pointing a knobby finger at you all. His dark skin is flushed with anger, nearly matching the red skull cap he wears on his head. Opulent clothing is draped about his body. "That racing beast was mine! I am due compensation!"
Ekene Afa, the burly speaker seated next to him, snorts with a roll of the eyes. "Be seated, Talro'a. This Celtra saved many lives with her quick action."
A third merchant prince speaks from the far side of the room; his handsome face is framed by a thin moustache and beard with patches of white throughout. Scars cover his hands and arms.
"Your beast damaged Jessamine's racing beast, the triceratops. Any recompense you receive belongs to her, does it not?" He gestures to Jessamine, who is older, with a streak of grey through her hair and an attempted application of thick makeup to make her appear younger.
"Thank you Jobal," she replies and folds her arms across her chest; her dress covers nearly all skin of her body but her face.
Looking about the room you notice Wakanga O'Tamu sitting next to Jessamine; he raises one eyebrow, making eye contact subtly, and makes the slightest of shakes of his head.
Talro'a flops into his throne in apparent disgust. "Foreigners come to our city and you take their side? Preposterous."
"Ekene is right," says a younger prince, a striking beauty bedecked in gold and jewels, from her lazy posture on her throne, chin resting on a beringed fist. "These travellers remind us that the people are what is important, Talro'a; think of life before gold for once…"
"Wisdom from such youth, Kwayothe," says the final prince to the younger; she is an elder woman of austere presence, hair pulled back in dredlocks, unafraid to let her age show on her face. "I agree. Let us hear more from the travellers of from where they hail and why they come to our fair city to help the masses…
How do you come to be in Port Nyanzaru? I am Zhanthi, forgive my fellow merchant princes their transgressions; they do forget their manners when things get heated…"
Your accent, mannerisms, figures of speech, and perhaps even your appearance all mark you as foreign. Curious glances are directed your way wherever you go, which can be a nuisance, but you also gain the friendly interest of scholars and others intrigued by far-off lands, to say nothing of everyday folk who are eager to hear stories of your homeland.
You can parley this attention into access to people and places you might not otherwise have, for you and your traveling companions. Noble lords, scholars, and merchant princes, to name a few, might be interested in hearing about your distant homeland and people.
Fulcra steps forward, bowing most deeply, his bright red local attire flowing, new and somewhat clean, his nice sandals clean. His bow is odd and is strange, stiff and from the waist.
"Oh great merchant princes, and princesses, of Port Nyanzaru and Chult, it is my great honor to meet you each, and to be in your presence. My name is Fulcra Myghal. We folk hail from across the lands of Faerun. While this young Tiefling hails from the cold and harsh sword coast, I myself come from the distant lands of Thay, where I have witnesses the view from the great plateau, seen the snow capped volcanoes of Mount Thay, and walked the streets of the great port city of Bezantur, the city of a thousand temples, where great magical works are shipped across the Sea of Fallen Stars and to all the lands of the west. It would be my great pleasure to regale you with stories of my homeland, the home of the Red Wizards, a land with fantastic, and sometimes sinister and villainous history under its once great undead wizard Szass Tam, but who now pride themselves on the most amazing magical creations the land has seen."
Cimeri was standing quietly as a definition of term "humble monk" - she said her piece and had nothing to add. Azaka was right calling Fulcra "Silvertong", but Cimeri still worried - if Chord was right (and why would not she?) the reason they came here - the Soul-monger - was the thing Chultians refuse to recognize as a part of Chult, out of pride (Princes were indeed arrogant... some of them at least) denying it's existence. How would they react - happy to let them get lost in the Jungle and not asking questions withing the city, or locking them up for the very idea of searching for something so foul in their land? Probably they needed to visit the pit, if only to familiarize themselves with something everyone here has looming over their heads.
The petitioners, minor nobles and merchants, and dignitaries gathered about the throne room create a low mumbling at Fulcra's announcement. Kwayothe straightens in her throne. Talro'a's visage becomes one of curiosity. Wakanga O'Tamu steeples his fingers in front of his full lips. Zhanthi calls for silence and continues.
"Welcome to Port Nyanzaru, Fulcra Myghal. We would gladly hear such tales at another time when matters of state are not being discussed, certainly privately," she says, looking to some of her fellow princes, who return her gaze with silence. "I must ask: surely you are aware of our customs, that no dealings of magical items may happen unless with the expressed consent of Wakanga O'Tamu," she says, motioning to Wakanga, who nods in thanks. "But," she continues, furrowing her brow dramatically and cocking her head, "you do not seem like merchants to me. Have you come simply to ensure our people's safety during dinosaur races?" she smiles. "Or is there another reason for visiting Chult?"
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Cimeri just (re-)introduced herself and was about to thank Chord for answers (though at the moment she was even more confused about customs of this dazzling land) when party (Celtra, but of course they would go too) got the invitation they could not refuse. Cimeri though just for a moment. She turned back to Chord: "You do not owe me anything but can I ask you for help? Couldyou send someone to Prince Wakanga and inform him and his guest - Lady Syndra Sylvane about our troubles? I will pay to the messenger."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
Bryn would stand tall behind the others, arms crossed, listening to this bard with open ears. She listened to the way she spoke and to the words she was telling them. When Chord would ask who they were the druid would simply respond, "I am Bryn. Thank you for your wisdom." and she'd nod a greeting to the bard.
Hearing the commotion at the door, Bryn would turn her attention to that area of the room. Noticing the Goliah bouncer first, she'd look him up and down before glancing over at the human woman who just finished brushing passed him. She'd furrow her brows and reach a hand towards her spear from the sudden approach of this woman towards her new team.
"I follow Purple One."
just an unstable unicorn.
Tangle puts his hand on Cimeri's shoulder and calmly says, "Cimeri, if a merchant prince desired us arrested or killed, we would not be escorted to his presence. Let us be calm, hold our assumptions, and see where this takes us."
Fulcra's ability to be serious and diplomatic at a moments notice, clashes with his normal odd and sometimes insulting behavior, like a schizm in your mind.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
The change in Fulcra's attitude was sure surprising, and to add to confusion, Cimeri was not so sure in her idea to begin with. But expedition was not their own, and Lady Sylvane had probably be informed about possible complications, had not she? She looked at Fulcra, at both tall women, rivalling Goliaths bouncers in their posture ... Truly, why was she worrying?
"He is right," she bowed to Chord. "Thank you for explanations and warnings. Let we meet again." Cimeri stood by Celtra and looked the officer (?) in the eye "I was at the race too and no less responsible. We will follow you to the Prince."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
@Taman:
The woman nods at you calmly, continuing to disburse bread. "If that story would be true, it is quite disturbing… yet I still see no reason to trust you. Would you be willing to convince me of your good intentions by deed?"
@The others:
Somber Chord hears your statements but holds up a paw. "You have done me a favor; I owe you a favor in return." She leans close so only Cimeri hears:
@Cimeri:
"I know this one", she nods at the shaven-headed warrior. "This is not good news for you. I will help you myself."
Somber Chord gracefully gathers her lute and moves out the door at a brisk walk.
The shaven-headed woman leads you out of Kaya's and the Red Bazaar, turning west and south past the harbor and Fort Nyanzaru. The woman leads the way, the other dark clad chultans flanking and behind you. Crowds part for this pale woman as she walks forward, deference being shown clearly.
It's not a short walk back to the Grand Souk and the Merchant Ward, where you assume the Prince's Villa would be; you look up the hill longingly to the Villa of Wakanga O'Tamu, but the woman continues moving west.
As another crowd parts for her, the way is blocked by a hulking half-orc, barrel-chested, grey-green skin glistening with sweat; he holds a large cudgel in one hand, tapping the end in his other.
"Seena," barks the half-orc, barely tipping his head back.
"Varag," returns Seena, the shaven-headed woman.
"These visitors are summoned to Goldenthrone to speak before the Merchant Princes; I will accompany them from here," states the half-orc, smacking the cudgel loudly.
Seena visibly bristles at the announcement, sunburned skin becoming brighter red. "Merchant Prince Talro'a has requested their presence at his villa."
"Merchant Prince Talro'a can join the other princes at Goldenthrone then," rumbles the half-orc.
There's a tense moment between the two before Seena backs down. "I will take this message to Prince Talro'a; he will not be pleased."
"Talro'a's pleasure is unfortunately not my concern," says Varag with a bow, and watches Seena stalk away. He turns to Fulcra, Celtra and Cimeri, noting Bryn as well. "She'll get over it. Follow me." He plucks a toothpick from behind his ear and works something from behind his tusk as he turns to a stair that leads to the overpass over the Grand Souk.
At the top of the stair, you recognize Wakanga O'Tamu's villa to the southeast, connected to where you stand by an overpass; in front of you is Goldenthrone, the palatial seat of government of Port Nyanzaru. While a large building of impressive stonework, it's not as beautiful as Wakanga's villa nor the temples you've seen here; it's clear this is a government building.
Varag leads you inside past several gladiator-turned-guards with spears and ornamental masks to a waiting area where you stand with several other people. "Somber cashed in a favor for you," Varag says to Cimeri, "but you got no appointment. Gonna have to wait a bit."
You wait a couple hours in boredom, until Taman joins you. Shortly therafter you're summoned by Varag.
[Taman, don't sweat, a messenger will find you with Eku after a bit and bring you here, you can still continue the conversation with Eku]
You're led into an airy, circular chamber with seven thrones, each occupied by… yup, Merchant Princes.
With no preamble or introduction, a 'prince', a ripped, broadfaced woman speaks from her throne.
"We are told you stopped the races yesterday. Who are you and what say you about this charge?"
"And what sort of deed would you have me do for you to prove this?" Taman asks. "You should know that I will not forsake my mission, or put it in danger, just to make you feel you can trust me..."
Taman: “Of course not. I would ask you to ask the beggar princes of the Old City, here, if they needed any help. In fact, I happen to know they do; several children have gone missing in the Old City in the last few days”.
Celtra took a step forward and stared hard at woman then said in a stern voice, "Race? They reported that I stopped a race?" She lets out a heavy laugh. "No, what I stopped was chaos. The city was under attack. Orders were given to stop the race and onlookers to return to their homes for safety. The beasts were already panicked and threatening civilians. I did what was needed to ensure their safety." She holds her head up with pride. "Oh, for your other question, I am Celtra.
Fulcra stands quietly, his eyes scanning the room, taking in the various details, but also attempting to pay careful attention to how the merchant princes interact with each other. Unless asked directly himself a question, he remains quiet.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Cimeri gratefully nodded to Varag - indeed, even if she did not understand the depth of danger, the power struggle was obvious and it did not look like Prince Wakanga and Prince Talro'a were good friends. Not after what Chord had said.
Cimeri stepped forward, standing by Celtra, bowed to the Princes and firmly proclaimed: "My name is Cimeri, I witnessed the event and participated to my best in resolving the situation. I here testify that neither me nor Celtra stopped the race. The animals were running wild, some without people guiding them. They were fighting each other, threatening the crowd and destroying everything on their way. What we did was done to protect people after the race was no more."
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
"As I figured, what you ask would take me away from the mission I cannot forsake." Taman says with a sad smile. "As much as I would like to help with these disappearances, we are planning on leaving the city as soon as possible, and I cannot take the time away from the task at hand." He gets to his feet. "I was hoping to gain your thoughts on what Grandfather Zitembe saw in his vision..." He continues, figuring why not speak it... "Savras showed him a jungle city far to the south, enclosed by cliffs and crawling with snakes. These were not snakes of nature; he believe Savras was telling him these snakes were evil, or magical. In the city was a black obelisk, covered in vines. pure evil was coming from the obelisk." Taman gives her a moment to decide if she wishes to speak or not, then will bow respectfully if she does not and turn to leave. "Your disappearances are a grave issue, to be certain, but they are not the only issues facing the world, and I need to do what is right by those who depend on me as well." He informs her.
Bryn would stand tall and silent alongside Fulcra. And she too would be scanning the area and watching the individuals in the room. This matter did not directly involve her, but she ought to pay attention and be aware of the past and present in order to be prepared for the future.
just an unstable unicorn.
[OOC: This post is for Taman only, need more time to write descriptions of Merchant Princes, will come later]
Eku smiles wryly at you, adjusting her light blue robes. "Some might say that all good deeds would lead you along the path to what you seek, but I understand your haste." She stands. "Taman of Azuth, I still do not trust that your heart is in the right place. But you are the first adventurer to come to me, to ask me to guide them, who has a purpose other than plundering the riches of Chult. You know my agenda; I am here for the good of Chult. I will not abide the slaying of innocents, nor the wanton plunder of our tombs for wealth's sake. Should you acquire treasure while cleansing evil from some of our places of power, that is your right, and I would hope you put that wealth to a use for good."
She picks up a walking staff carved in the likeness of a stylized couatl. "If you are still seeking a guide, here are my terms: until I can judge that you and your party are not grave robbers, my fee is 6 gold per day instead of 5. The upfront payment would be 180 gold, for 30 days of guidance. Should you plunder any tombs or kill innocents during those 30 days I reserve the right to abandon you to your fate. If you help me cleanse any areas I ask for assistance with, should they be on our forward path, I may reduce my rate or work for no fee at all. Think on that. I have a couple of ideas where your city might be, and also know of a resource that could help us get more information." She smiles to herself. "I say 'us', but you have not yet hired me."
At this point a lad runs up to you. "Taman of Azuth? You are required for an audience with the Merchant Princes at Goldenthrone. Please follow me at once!"
"Goldenthrone," says Eku. "Interesting indeed... would you mind if I tagged along? We can negotiate or not on the way..."
"Follow if you wish." Taman says with a nod. he heads off after the messenger. "So you know, I am not here to hire you. we have a guide, I chose to seek you out as someone who seems to know much about these lands, and who truly seems concerned about the wellfare of the jungle itself. I would appreciate learning whom we should seek out in regard to learning more about this city of snakes, but understand if you do not wish to give that information, due to not being our guide."
Persuasion check: 16
Guidance: 2
@taman again:
she stops following. “I see. Good luck to you”; she heads back to the Old City.
(I will say he was up front with his reasons for being there. He wanted to 'pick her brain' and that was it. He never even once mentioned hiring her... After all she was the one who said she was not interested, he figured she was a good bet for someone to talk with, without any worry about the hiring piece of it being an issue.)
Regardless, he heads to the meeting.
[Taman's events had happened prior to the start of the hearing in Goldenthrone, so he was there with you all when you were led in front of the Merchant Princes]
A man sitting next to the speaker jumps to his feet as Cimeri finishes. "You will address us as Merchant Princes!" he yells, pointing a knobby finger at you all. His dark skin is flushed with anger, nearly matching the red skull cap he wears on his head. Opulent clothing is draped about his body. "That racing beast was mine! I am due compensation!"
Ekene Afa, the burly speaker seated next to him, snorts with a roll of the eyes. "Be seated, Talro'a. This Celtra saved many lives with her quick action."
A third merchant prince speaks from the far side of the room; his handsome face is framed by a thin moustache and beard with patches of white throughout. Scars cover his hands and arms.
"Your beast damaged Jessamine's racing beast, the triceratops. Any recompense you receive belongs to her, does it not?" He gestures to Jessamine, who is older, with a streak of grey through her hair and an attempted application of thick makeup to make her appear younger.
"Thank you Jobal," she replies and folds her arms across her chest; her dress covers nearly all skin of her body but her face.
Looking about the room you notice Wakanga O'Tamu sitting next to Jessamine; he raises one eyebrow, making eye contact subtly, and makes the slightest of shakes of his head.
Talro'a flops into his throne in apparent disgust. "Foreigners come to our city and you take their side? Preposterous."
"Ekene is right," says a younger prince, a striking beauty bedecked in gold and jewels, from her lazy posture on her throne, chin resting on a beringed fist. "These travellers remind us that the people are what is important, Talro'a; think of life before gold for once…"
"Wisdom from such youth, Kwayothe," says the final prince to the younger; she is an elder woman of austere presence, hair pulled back in dredlocks, unafraid to let her age show on her face. "I agree. Let us hear more from the travellers of from where they hail and why they come to our fair city to help the masses…
How do you come to be in Port Nyanzaru? I am Zhanthi, forgive my fellow merchant princes their transgressions; they do forget their manners when things get heated…"
DM Reminder, Fulcra's background:
Your accent, mannerisms, figures of speech, and perhaps even your appearance all mark you as foreign. Curious glances are directed your way wherever you go, which can be a nuisance, but you also gain the friendly interest of scholars and others intrigued by far-off lands, to say nothing of everyday folk who are eager to hear stories of your homeland.
You can parley this attention into access to people and places you might not otherwise have, for you and your traveling companions. Noble lords, scholars, and merchant princes, to name a few, might be interested in hearing about your distant homeland and people.
Fulcra steps forward, bowing most deeply, his bright red local attire flowing, new and somewhat clean, his nice sandals clean. His bow is odd and is strange, stiff and from the waist.
"Oh great merchant princes, and princesses, of Port Nyanzaru and Chult, it is my great honor to meet you each, and to be in your presence. My name is Fulcra Myghal. We folk hail from across the lands of Faerun. While this young Tiefling hails from the cold and harsh sword coast, I myself come from the distant lands of Thay, where I have witnesses the view from the great plateau, seen the snow capped volcanoes of Mount Thay, and walked the streets of the great port city of Bezantur, the city of a thousand temples, where great magical works are shipped across the Sea of Fallen Stars and to all the lands of the west. It would be my great pleasure to regale you with stories of my homeland, the home of the Red Wizards, a land with fantastic, and sometimes sinister and villainous history under its once great undead wizard Szass Tam, but who now pride themselves on the most amazing magical creations the land has seen."
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Cimeri was standing quietly as a definition of term "humble monk" - she said her piece and had nothing to add. Azaka was right calling Fulcra "Silvertong", but Cimeri still worried - if Chord was right (and why would not she?) the reason they came here - the Soul-monger - was the thing Chultians refuse to recognize as a part of Chult, out of pride (Princes were indeed arrogant... some of them at least) denying it's existence. How would they react - happy to let them get lost in the Jungle and not asking questions withing the city, or locking them up for the very idea of searching for something so foul in their land? Probably they needed to visit the pit, if only to familiarize themselves with something everyone here has looming over their heads.
Meili Liang Lvl 5 Monk
Dice
The petitioners, minor nobles and merchants, and dignitaries gathered about the throne room create a low mumbling at Fulcra's announcement. Kwayothe straightens in her throne. Talro'a's visage becomes one of curiosity. Wakanga O'Tamu steeples his fingers in front of his full lips. Zhanthi calls for silence and continues.
"Welcome to Port Nyanzaru, Fulcra Myghal. We would gladly hear such tales at another time when matters of state are not being discussed, certainly privately," she says, looking to some of her fellow princes, who return her gaze with silence. "I must ask: surely you are aware of our customs, that no dealings of magical items may happen unless with the expressed consent of Wakanga O'Tamu," she says, motioning to Wakanga, who nods in thanks. "But," she continues, furrowing her brow dramatically and cocking her head, "you do not seem like merchants to me. Have you come simply to ensure our people's safety during dinosaur races?" she smiles. "Or is there another reason for visiting Chult?"