Carl agrees to carry Shi Maria to Larracos as a totem if she aids the party and never uses her lethal mind effects against allies.
Carl concludes that Maria's panic, friendship, and body promise may be calculated to make the party carry her through the floor transition. He nevertheless sees an opportunity because voluntary card form places her under threat of destruction.
He promises to get Maria to the next floor or deeper destination she needs. In return, she must help the party and submit to flagging. If she blinds, maddens, or harms anyone outside an existing enemy fight, Carl will rip the card.
Maria accepts because Larracos offers access to the pulpmancer and a path toward her missing husband. She says the party can free her there and argues that Carl need not trust someone completely at his mercy.
Carl promises assistance but remains certain she is emulating his behavior and concealing additional plans. The agreement still creates a safer immediate outcome than fighting a double-resurrection city boss.
A crawler and colossal spider facing one another over a glowing card, Larracos visible as the destination behind them.
The bargain governs Maria's temporary alliance and provides Carl's only practical leverage over her.