[Gameplay] 7. The Search for the Forgotten Pharoah

"Good company is hard to find in this sleepy town. Tell me your name and an amusing story. You'll find I can be a very good friend." She touches Tabat's arm as if innocently admiring the texture of his armor. How she pronounces 'very' tells a different story.

Tabat swallows and puts on his best smile for the woman. "Well, it wasn't long ago our group was on business in the Necropolis of Wati. While there are many stories of just that short time, one that comes to mind is of coming across a silver dragon. We were searching for an object that happened to be in its possession and - as I'm sure you know - silver dragons are quite reluctant to give up anything they find precious. We treated with the creature, however, and offered it jewels and gems in exchange, bartering not only for the item, but for our very lives should things have gone wrong. As you can tell by us being graced with your presence this day, we were successful. Though our lives were within its grasp, we appealed to its goodness and the trade was made. The object it provided us, allowed us to end a siege of undead upon the city - something I think we are all proud of here, myself and my friends."

Not entirely unlike the situation we're in now, Tabat thinks.

"A boon from Your Excellency? You honor us deeply." Tabat offers her an authentic smile, "We have entreated with Deka An-Keret, begging access to the Great Library's Inner Sanctum. There is research we deeply desire to complete, but she refused us. Might you bless us with your leave to explore the library more fully?"

"That would be most agreeable, Your Excellency," Tabat says. "Might I ask, how long will remain in the city?"

"Well, I will make sure to see you before then." He takes another bite of food from his plate. "How will we know when we can access the library, Your Excellency? We wish to get started on our research as soon as possible, considering the delays set upon us by Deka An-Keret's unwillingness to lend aid."

"You are most gracious, Your Excellency. Thank you. Now, tell me, what is it you enjoy the most in this city? I will admit its my first time here - are there any sights worth seeing?" Tabat continues small talk with Muminofrah while eating the delightful meal she's shared with them until the itch to excuse themselves becomes overwhelming.

Tabat and her talk for some time, but it isn't clear what her role is in Tephu. She speaks with the voice of the Ruby Prince in many things, but it's possible her trip here is simply one of hedonism.

Before things get a chance to become routine or worse, dull, you sense that you're dismissed (on the promise that you'll return in a few days).

When they've sufficiently taken their leave, Tabat looks to the others. "That could have gone a lot worse. Shall we head back for some rest? Tomorrow looks to be a long day of researching at the library."

Iseret gives a quick thought to teasing Tabat about his new "friend", but decides better of it and remains silent. She nods her agreement with Tabat and heads towards the inn and a warm meal and soft bed.

After a few drinks in the tavern, Tabat heads to his room and calls it a night - he wants to be well-rested for their stint in the library the next morning.

Iseret likewise seeks out a soft (or reasonably soft) bed.

The Spiral Archive
Returning to the Grand Library the following day, you find that word of your 'authorization' has already reached them. Deka AnKeret is apparently in quite a mood but the acolytes open the doors that lead to the Inner Sanctum.

The chief acolyte hands you a sealed letter. "Do not lose this. There are creatures bound to the library to protect it from intruders. They will not attack you if you're bearing this letter, but if you lose it, it will be their duty to stop you. "

Tabat takes the letter and places it carefully within the folds of his armor, so as to keep it close and safe. "Do you know the contents of the library well? Would you be able to point us to a particular section on a topic?"

"I'm sorry. It's a big collection and no one has arranged it. You'll need to search out whatever you need the old fashioned way. A thousand apologies, sir."