Mother

[Anastasia]

"Yes, and the elimination of them," Akil bin Faheem says easily, "I'm sure we can come to an accord."

How desperate is he, Seira? Does he realize what's coming?

[Corwin]

If he has the right divine affinity....

"What are you offering? I've noticed you very subtly reminding me that you still have Razalim, but on its own it wouldn't be enough."

[Anastasia]

"I can offer you power and influence - and of course, the continuation of your peace and gains here, rather than seeing them swept aside by another Sultan," he declares.

[Corwin]

"I have all the power I need, so let's see... how about asking your friends here to part ways amiably and vacate Fire for the duration of our peace treaty?"

[Anastasia]

A soft chuckle, "Unfortunately, that's not on the table, friend."

[Corwin]

Since Amaryl was the one who wanted to look into things, Seira asks her, What do you think Cauldron requires to get involved? Aside from Razalim.

[Anastasia]

A reason to stay and influence the result, if he does fall. I don't want to defend him, but if whomever comes is that much worse? A wise oak does not remain inflexible, or it withers and dies.

But not so binding that if it is an impossible opponent, that we are obligated to fight to the death.

[Corwin]

"I think we can find a corresponding goal, here," Seira voices. "Give me all the information you have and Razalim. Once I've done what neither your regime nor your close and dear friends can't and secured your rule and our peace, we'll take a stroll through your treasury and collect three artifacts that catch my eye as payment."

She might as well see how serious Akil is about this, and that cursed sword is the best way to test it.

[Anastasia]

Are you trying to intimidate? If so roll that, otherwise roll Diplomacy. Need a roll here to help factor things out.

[Corwin]

I don't think I'm quite intimidating him, so diplo it is.

Taking 10 for 136 with divine insight and improvisation.

[Anastasia]

Akil bin Faheem laughs warmly, "What a generous offer! A whole three artifacts, you say?"

[Corwin]

"Chalk it down to numerology. And speaking of one's mastery of numbers, all minus three is a great deal more than zero."

[Anastasia]

"One artifact," Akil offers back, "And a great pile of gold."

[Corwin]

"It's not a negotiation," Seira says, shaking her head. "Merely my offer to lend my help with your mess. I won't be hurt if you refuse it, and we'll part as friends. Of sorts."

[Anastasia]

Silence follows. The efreet considers you as...

He's doing a behind the scenes Sense Motive. Did you lie a tall there?