Dragon quickstep

[Corwin]

Seira gestures her agreement.

[Anastasia]

You soon reach the top of the spike. You are taken inside - decorated sparsely enough - and to where in a huge chamber, a single fire giant sits. He sits before a large fireplace, gaze on the flames.

[Corwin]

Does he look like the fire giant we're looking for?

[Anastasia]

Yes.

[Corwin]

"Thank you for seeing us, Pashatuh," she says in greeting. "As you must have been told, I am Seira Aryn."

[Anastasia]

He gestures, "I know what this is about at least in part," he begins, "So speak. Just you, please, I've heard the stories about Donald."

Donald has the good grace to look pleased.

Ranbar doesn't, and adds, "And myself?"

"I'd rather speak to a leader than competing interests in the same group. Less headaches," Is the giant's answer.

[Corwin]

"I want a way into Imix's Gallery of Triumphs, one that would allow me to reach it without fighting endless hordes of his minions. Anything you could tell me about its layout and installed defenses would be welcome as wel."

[Anastasia]

You are considered before, "Assuming I know of such a way," he says slowly, "Why should I help you?"

[Corwin]

"You knew what this was about, in general terms, and still agreed to see me," Seira notes. "So this is a question of what you want in return for your aid. On top of supporting Kossuth in the coming conflict, of course. I'm sure we all know where the lines will be drawn, and where Imix will find himself."

[Anastasia]

"And if I go to Imix, he would not only agree to that, but to far more to counter you," The fire giant retorts, a single huge finger pointed at you. "With respect, goddess, you would not come to me for anything you could do another way. I speak not to disrespect you, but only point out what is clear to me."

[Corwin]

"I've come to negotiate, so that's fine," Seira tells him, not feeling in the least slighted. "I believe that your argument is flawed, however. We know that Imix's word is worthless, whereas for me, it serves as my bond. If we reach an agreement here, it will be upheld, in letter and in spirit. If you feel that Imix would do the same and have Kossuth's back in the coming war, then by all means, go to him." Seira scoffs, showing her own opinion about that. "If you don't, however, I would like to hear what you would be interested in, in exchange of the information I seek."

[Anastasia]

"Perhaps so, but one thing keeps Imix in line - fear.  He knows that to betray Kossuth is death. Everyone on Fire knows that." The giant says easily, "But I'm interested in offers. I collect rare and powerful magical arms, armaments, armors. The past time of rich kings and legendary heroes."

[Corwin]

"I have rare and powerful artifacts," Seira muses, summoning a short sword and a greatsword from her treasury. "Weave's Gentle Tears, purified through my efforts into a force of good, a true one of a kind. One can put a price on it, however, which would be difficult to do with my signature weapon, Dragon's Grace, a divine artifact that has no equal. I'm certain that we can come to an amicable agreement."

Seira leaves them floating at her sides, and then dismisses the divine will keeping the single sword at her hip hidden. "If you go all in, however, and actively participate to help me," she continues, drawing Razalim, "this one will be yours."

[Anastasia]

"Razalim!" A gasp as it's seen and held, "Mercy! Only a fool desires that cursed blade!" He holds his arms up, as if to shield his face. "Take it! Take it away from me! I know too well it's terrible power!"

"You're wiser than you look," Donald casually remarks.

"I have met Kassim. He spoke of the sword, only to warn me never to seek it. Never have I seen him speak such serious words." Is the giant's quick answer.

[Corwin]

Seira sheathes Razalim once more, and after a moment accedes to Pashatuh's panicked request. "This is my conviction," she states, looking at the swords surrounding her. "Kassim told me that actions speak louder than words, so here we are. Which one would you prefer in exchange for your aid?"