>>5302332None would dispute that this is the home of a gifted mage. The air is more crisp than has any right to be, and the polished stonework possesses a sheen that should naturally be unattainable. Nearby is a shelf filled with books, the titles of which you are wholly incapable of reading. Crystals gleam with arcane energies, shooting light through flasks of unidentifiable liquids. Further on is a metal... something, which levitates in the air, occasionally spinning.
The object is situated next to a staircase, from which your host descends at a leisurely pace. He is ever-so-slightly taller than you, adorned with robes that are refined without being opulent. A full head of orange hair grown past his shoulders sways as he raises his hand to regard you. Without a conscious thought, you reach for the Dark Fantasy - this man is <span class="mu-i">Ar-tel-quessir</span>, the 'people of the sun' in their language. They and the Ilythiiri have long shared a mutual 'kill on sight' policy, and your instincts warn you that you should expect bloodshed.
"Be at peace," he says. Amaranth's voice is gentle and dignified, every word spoken in an even cadence. "Sindiira, yes? It is rare that Brandt speaks favorably of anyone, yet his endorsement of you was quite generous." You ease your grip on your weapon and approach him gingerly, the fear of a sudden attack still dwelling in the recesses of your brain.
"If it is a quest you seek, I am afraid that I sent my apprentice Lael on an errand minutes prior to your arrival. Still, it is a rare day that I am sought out, and a rarer one still that I have a guest. If you will consent to it, I would very much like to entertain you for a time." It was a generous offer. You had come here to win a valuable ally, and the magics which brought you here spoke credit to his affinity for spellcraft. The amount of assistance he would be willing to provide was indeterminate, but you could cross that bridge when you came to it.
"All right."
Side-by-side, the two of you begin ascending the spiral staircase in complete silence. Unlike the loquacious and energetic Ilanis, it was abundantly clear that Amaranth was not much of a conversationalist. Unfortunately, this meant that you would have to start off the conversation.
You may choose no more than three.
>He is a member of the Council of Elders. What is his perspective on Everlund, and the problems it faces today?>Our people are ancient enemies. Does he not despise every fiber of my being?>I have been wondering about Ilanis. What is that girl's story?>I have heard tales of the legendary Song of Friendship. Is it possible to learn this power?>[Intellect] I attempt to say something eloquent, to ensure that this is the beginning of a mutually beneficial arrangement.>[Will] To the Abyss with manners. I swallow my pride, heed the girl's advice, and... try to build a rapport.>He is a knowledgeable man. I'd like to ask him about... [Write-in.] 