Erayu nodded, and continued. “We chose to settle in these ruins because my people are most comfortable in ancient places, but also because a nearby outpost—though otherwise too new to be of interest to us— holds a shrine to Sekhmet, our patron of battle. Upon settling here, we journeyed to the outpost to make our offerings to the Lady of Slaughter, but as we approached, monstrous creatures emerged from the outpost to drive us back.” Erayu scratched the sand at his feet and spit to the side. “Red-skinned humanoids with curving horns sprouting from their brows and fire in their hearts. They attacked without warning, and we were forced to retreat before we lost even more from our pride. I dare not risk all of us in a direct assault. Perhaps you could investigate the outpost and clear a path for us to the shrine of Sekhmet? With Sekhmet’s blessing, I would feel confident in showing you the way to the Sightless Sphinx.”<br/><br/>(DC 23 Knowledge (planes) identifies the creatures as efreeti. Azadei will succeed on this check, when he reunites with the group.)