Ashnabis session 23

Ashnabis session logs Previous Session 23 Next

Session

Session date: December 15, 2019
Fair Cycle date:

Prologue

<Ashnabis_Narrator> Yesterday it rained for half an hour. For half an hour, you felt something other than parched and dry. It was short-lived, but it promises that as Gugivas will soon change to Kerai, the worst of the dry season will be behind you.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> You promise yourselves you won't complain when your boots are caked with mud and the rains chill your bones. Not after this.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> You have returned from your trip to the northeast to the lands in the Sestapor laid open by the droughts, accompanied by Artep Nugoptu in search of the legendary Tertizhi sword.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> While you didn't find it, you found something perhaps even stranger: a ruined fortress guarded still by a creature out of legend, an Iron Knight still in service of his Stone Prince.
* Daifan promises no such thing :V
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Having ended his servitude to save yourselves from him, and retrieved many items of interest or value, you were tasked with returning him to Kaskind for proper treatment.

Veznara and Dezmali consult the ancestor found encased in armor

<Ashnabis_Narrator> Veznara, upon your return from your excursion, you returned the body of the deceased Buhin Ortazhi to the Hand of the Dead, and the goods you recovered there to the land registry to await their ultimate disposal.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Since that time, the body has been transferred to the temple of the Voice in Kaskind for proper treatment as an ancestor. But you still have many questions about what could or can preserve a body in animate form, like but unlike a bubun, for so long.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> If it is a bubun, you wonder, who was controlling it? It seemed to be operating under its own free will. And for what purpose was it there in the first place? Who was this Buhin and what were the circumstances of his situation? Mysteries upon mysteries.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Today you are meeting with Dezmali to talk about what you have found and to visit the Voice temple yourselves.
* Veznara is dressed in her simplest white dress, with no special jewelry, to observe the solemnity of the occasion
* Dezmali will accompany you to the Voice temple.
<Dezmali> This is certainly a remarkable discovery.
* Dezmali says as we make our way there.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> It was quite a surprise! I felt bad about stopping it... but I suppose its seven years of service have long since passed.
<Veznara> If if was ever supposed to have a limited term, that is.
* Veznara shudders
<Veznara> Daifan wanted to leave it to rot in the swamp...
<Dezmali> Yes... it's a wonder it was able to continue its service for so long. There must have been a different ritual to preserve it.
<Veznara> I suppose there must have been such a ritual... the metal threads caught my attention as soon as I saw them.
* Dezmali nods
<Veznara> Was that perhaps a special way to prepare bubun who were intended specifically for military-type duties? Or simply a way of ensuring they would be able to serve beyond seven years?
<Dezmali> Perhaps. If this was the case, though, it is not something I have been able to find any record of. But the books available here are, of course, not as plentiful as they might be in a larger city.
<Dezmali> If I were back in Omba, perhaps there would be more information in some of the ancient records.
<Veznara> Well, the Voice may be able to get some answers from the Ancestor himself. Buhin Odazhi, kinsman of General Lentus Odazhi.
<Dezmali> Perhaps, if he knew what the fate was that awaited him after his death, he might be able to relate his knowledge about it.
<Veznara> The bustul did indicate that he "gave his life" to be the guardian of the stone, so that seems possible.
* Dezmali nods
* Veznara smiles ruefully
<Veznara> I'm too given to speculating - when the answers are available, if the Voice will give them!
<Dezmali> Well - we can inquire, and hope that he is able to provide some insight into this practice.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> You arrive at the Voice temple, where you are greeted by Voice Tegus.
* Tegus is a heavy-set gray-haired man, perhaps in his forties. He is dressed in a long black robe tied at the waist with a thick brown belt, but otherwise unadorned.
<Tegus> Good morning to you, blessed Hands. Be welcome here in the temple of songs.
* Veznara nods
<Dezmali> Greetings, Voice Tegus. May we speak with the ancient ancestor who was brought to you?
<Tegus> You may. We have much to discuss, I think. Please, enter.
* Dezmali will step inside the temple.
* Veznara joins them, eager to learn more about Buhin Odazhi and the circumstances that brought him here!
<Tegus> Because this is such an unusual situation I have been careful to take precautions, to prevent undue speculation.
<Tegus> I would not normally be so involved in questioning an ancestor, as you might expect.
* Dezmali nods
<Dezmali> We appreciate your willingness to be part of this ceremony, and to include us.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Yes, indeed. Thank you, Voice Tegus.
<Tegus> Hand Veznara, it is my understanding that you were present at the retrieval of this ancestor.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Yes, that is so. My team at the Land Registry was sent to investigate an old fortress east of here, and we found him in that place. He emerged from the water, and appeared to be guarding an old stone statue.
<Tegus> You have our thanks for returning this ancestor to us. Although of course there are other mysteries still to be understood.
<Veznara> I am glad to have been of service. And yes, there is much to be discovered about the circumstances that led this ancestor to be there.
* Tegus leads you down a hallway and into a small locked antechamber.
<Tegus> We will of course find a permanent home for this ancestor, once we are ready. For now, I thought it best to ensure that no disturbance is possible.
* Veznara follows
<Veznara> Yes. I understand that the Odazhi lineage is regrettably no more; but there may be a connection with the Lentu?
<Tegus> Well, that is difficult to say for certain. But yes, there are no more Odazhi to my knowledge.
* Veznara shakes her head sadly
* Tegus takes you over to the body and pulls a simple cloth away from it. The ancestor seems at rest.
<Tegus> These metal threads, very strange. I do not know, Hand Dezmali, whether you have been able to discern much about how this ancestor came to be as such?
<Dezmali> I'm afraid I know very little. I believe it may be something connected to the practices of the stoneguards - there is some reference to a practice called urtuvoz, iron-skin, which may be related to this, but I haven't been able to learn more than that yet.
* Tegus nods.
<Veznara> There was some indication on the bustul that this Ancestor was... chosen for this particular duty.
<Tegus> As the stoneguards have become fewer in number, the knowledge of their ways has become lost over the centuries. Many things of the Empire are no longer so widely known.
* Dezmali nods
<Veznara> This may help us rediscover some of those old ways, then.
<Tegus> Have you considered the questions you would like to ask?
* Dezmali looks to Veznara
<Veznara> Well, he will not know of anything that actually happened after his husk was transformed into bubun, correct?
<Dezmali> We discussed it somewhat, but I believe, as Hand Veznara was present for this ancestor's recovery, she should be the one to ask what she sees fit.
<Tegus> Yes, that is correct ... unless things are different than we imagine.
<Tegus> An ancestor should only know what they knew in life.
<Veznara> How many questions will he answer for us today?
<Tegus> It should be possible to ask three questions.
<Dezmali> It would be possible to return another time and ask more, though?
<Tegus> If needed, yes. But also I believe that I may have my own questions. We do not normally subject an ancestor to such questioning, but this is a very unusual situation.
* Dezmali nods
<Tegus> We try to discourage relatives from coming in every day or every week with more inquiries. It is not helpful to the spirit of the living to be obsessed with the answers they get.
<Dezmali> Certainly, we have no wish to be intrusive. But, as you say, this is an unusual circumstance - if there is valuable information to be gleaned from this ancestor, it is worthwhile to make those inquiries before he is placed to a more longer-lasting rest.
<Veznara> Yes, of course.
<Veznara> Will the Ancestor be able to understand if we explain the circumstances under which we found him?
<Tegus> That is hard to say. It would depend on what he knew at the time of his death. For instance, he may not have died where you found him.
<Veznara> No. However, I think he may have known he was intended to become a guardian, which means he should be able to explain what he was guarding and why.
<Tegus> You suggest, and I agree, that he may have been ... chosen, as a guardian. But did he know he was to be chosen prior to his death? And even if so, what did he suppose he would be guarding?
<Veznara> The bustul said he "gave his life as a guardian of the stone".
<Veznara> Could we first simply ask him how he died?
<Tegus> Yes, I think that is reasonable.
<Veznara> Or perhaps more generally, the circumstances of his death - if that lets him answer in more detail.
<Veznara> (Was there any indication of how he died originally on the body itself? Or was it too damaged to tell?)
<Tegus> The ancestors are known to be cryptic but they are not excessively pedantic. They are able to manage a question as long as it is not too vague.
<AshnabisGM> (no it was far too damaged)
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Very well. Let us start with that, then.
<Veznara> If he is aware he was intended to guard that place, we can ask about that next.
<Veznara> If not, he may still know the significance of the statue.
<Veznara> I doubt he would know anything about the method used to preserve him... Dezmali?
<Dezmali> I don't know. If he was a stoneguard in life, perhaps? But even so, he might not know how it was done.
<Veznara> Then perhaps our third question could be about the greatest danger that faced the fort where we found him, to explain why it was abandoned.
<Veznara> Apparently this Fort Kinjilai was a "cursed" place; I would like to know what that really means.
* Tegus turns to the body and makes his inquiry.

• Veznara observes with fascination, and sincere religious awe
  

<AshnabisGM> After a moment, Tegus steps back, clearly confused or upset at what he has heard.
<Tegus> He ... ahhh ... well.
<Veznara> Yes? Are you all right, Voice Tegus?
<Tegus> Yes ... of course.
<Tegus> I will tell you what he told me, in his words, as best as I can convey them, given that his speech is ancient.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Thank you.
<Tegus> He says: I was grievously injured in battle, and so, knowing my kinsman and general needed protection as he had been made stone by his enemies, I pledged to serve as his guardian in skin of iron as long as he needed my hammer's warrant.
* Veznara nods, remembering the story Artep told
<Tegus> And your next question?
<Veznara> What are the circumstances of the general being made stone?
* Tegus turns to the ancestor and again speaks to him in ritual language.
* Tegus turns back to you, after a few moments.
<Tegus> The ancestor speaks: After many battles over the wild folk of Osnabis, my kinsman and general allied himself against our own legions, having found true friendship among those we were subjugating. And thus we turned against the Empire's banner, but we failed. And his punishment was to be cast into stone forever.
<Veznara> (Wow! Have I heard of such an event, of a General turning against the Empire here?)
<AshnabisGM> You know that the conquest of Osnabis was very contentious, in the late Imperial period where there was lots of political machinations, etc. And ultimately it was not a successful conquest. So it's not the weirdest thing. But no, you don't have any specific knowledge of this event or anything quite like it.
* Veznara considers for a moment
<Tegus> Your third question, then?
<Veznara> Does he know anything of the fate of a soldier of the Tertizhi lineage, one who bore a silksword?
* Tegus asks the question.
* Tegus returns after a moment: He knows of the Tertizhi, a great lineage of warriors. The Tertizhi were among the generals who condemned his beloved cousin. More than that, he does not know.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Thank you, Voice Tegus.
<Veznara> This is an unexpected turn of events. I will have to do some research to find out more about this rebellion... may I return if I have more questions?
<Dezmali> Yes, thank you.
<Tegus> If we are to understand this ancestor properly ... Lentu Odazhi is entombed in stone in the swamp still.
<Tegus> That is a serious matter.
* Veznara nods
<Dezmali> Is there something that could be done for him?
<Tegus> I ... have no idea.
<Tegus> I do not think a stone statue can be prepared as an ancestor, or spoken to as such.
<Veznara> It sounds like a magical curse. I imagine magic might hold the key to undoing it.
<Veznara> But he may still be living if released?
<Tegus> I couldn't say.
<Veznara> Perhaps it would be best if we research this for a while before taking further action.
<Dezmali> I trust that one of the questions you will have of this ancestor is where he would ultimately like to repose?
<Tegus> Yes, I would imagine so.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> In the meantime, as the one who recovered his remains, I would be honoured to take care of any additional responsibilities in place of his lineage, until such can be found and take them up themselves.
<Tegus> I will also speak to my colleagues at the temple at Timiil ... I do not know the local lineages and customs as well as I should, but they may have some insight.
<Veznara> Thank you, Voice Tegus.

Llillilli is escorted to her wedding by Thelef's family

<Ashnabis_Narrator> All these mysteries pale in comparison to the mysteries of life and love, as you will soon gather together for the union of Llillilli and Thelef.
<Daifan> :3
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Llillilli, the day of your wedding with Thelef has arrived at last!
<Ashnabis_Narrator> It seemed like it might never get here, that the preparations and negotiations and planning would continue forever, but finally the day has come.
<Llillilli> :o
* Llillilli is uncharacteristically nervous.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> First thing in the morning, you and Jimba and Katenzhi are awakened (if you were able to sleep at all) by the sound of a horn blowing and bells ringing - Thelef's family have arrived to bring you to the lineage house for the ceremony.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> An assortment of his female relatives are gathered outside the boat, and a litter decorated with flowers and carried by four of Thelef's young, strapping cousins is awaiting you.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Ceremonially, you are not supposed to take anything but the clothing you're wearing into your marriage.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Two of Thelef's relatives lay down a thick red cloth on the ground for you to tread on, so that you don't get your feet dirty as you make your way to the litter.
* Katenzhi will give you one last big hug before you get on :3
<Llillilli> (this ONE TIME I will not take my pfethes... but I will make Jimba take them)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (heh, fair)
<Jimba> (I was going to offer)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Thelef's aunt Kiklatsa beckons you forward with a ringing of the bell she holds in her hand, indicating your path into this new stage of your life.
<Llillilli> (thanks bro)
* Llillilli will get into the... thing
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Jimba and Katenzhi, you are supposed to follow and join in the procession.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> The litter is open at the sides so that passers-by can see you, and on the seat next to you is a bowl full of water perfumed by flower petals. It is intended for you to be able to cleanse your hands and face, but it's also considered good luck if you sprinkle a few drops on anyone you pass by.
<Llillilli> ...
<Llillilli> (fine I'll throw the stupid flower water)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> The journey to Thelef's lineage house is punctuated by a number of pauses, as members of his lineage and other guests come to greet you, be ceremonially sprinkled with flower water, and join in the procession, and the noise and clamor of the instruments and voices grow steadily louder.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> When you arrive, his cousins again lay down a cloth for you to walk on. Several of his aunts and female relatives usher you into the lineage house, where your wedding clothing awaits.
<Llillilli> :x
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Behind a curtained area for privacy, they assist you in dressing, wrapping you in a fine golden silk dashi that reaches nearly to the floor, and placing heavy copper bracelets on your wrists and a circlet with a jade inlay on your head.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> They daub you with a few drops of perfumed oil, then complete the outfit by winding a wide dark green sash around your waist.
* Llillilli lets them work but feels very strange about it.
* Llillilli 's hair is down in free floating curls today (also uncharacteristically), making her look almost soft
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Once the guests have gathered, the ceremony can begin.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> First, it is Jimba's responsibility as the head of the Ghughife lineage to receive the bride price from the Aanilaus family.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Thelef's family ceremonially present to him a number of traditional gifts - a bundle of salted eels, a sack of rice, and a bolt of fine-quality woven cloth - as well as the more practical coins.
<Jimba> (Is there anything I'm supposed to say?)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (probably just thank you is fine :)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Tobor Aanilaus, the lineage elder and Thelef's uncle, also brings forth a carved brooch of amber, inscribed with faint old Aummesh writing, and clasps it to Jimba's dashi proudly.
<Tobor> Here - to mark the occasion, a special gift :)
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> Thank you. It's beautiful.
<Tobor> Much like your sister! Thelef is very fortunate.
<Jimba> Llillilli as well. And our family, of course.
<AshnabisGM> The guests have all gathered to witness your joy.
<AshnabisGM> Various members of the Aanilaus lineage and their spouses and children are here, of course. Too many to name or recall, although Thelef has been helping you learn them as best as you can. The lineage elder, Tobor, Thelef's uncle, and Kiklatsa, Tobor's younger sister, are most important among them.
<AshnabisGM> Sharei, who works with you as an agent at the land registry but who you've rarely talked to, and Elukir, who is the high priest of the Voice in Timiil, are also among the gathered clansfolk.
<AshnabisGM> There are a number of hith and hithkindred of course - this is not their ceremony but you two are their People, so they are here. Shulilae and Helithae, of course you expected. You note in passing that Helithae must have had their eggs. Thulle the ambassador is there. Hillisi and Fifelus, of course.
<Daifan> . o O (Oh she's so pretty today :3)
<AshnabisGM> But most strikingly, standing next to them is the King themself, Whuthe. You had not heard anything of this, although of course it is not your place to question where the King should or should not be.
* Llillilli 's eyes go wide.
<AshnabisGM> Your lineage is of course represented by Jimba and Katenzhi as well as your aunt and uncle. But some of your colleagues are also here - Utus stands nearby, smiling, and Bivizmi. And various Susters and other allies and friends.
<AshnabisGM> Artep, your recent companion, is here - his wife is an Aanilaus, as you remember.
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Omoshla, the priestess of the Hand who will be conducting the wedding ceremony, stands to begin the ritual.
* Daifan is there with Sulidein
<Daifan> (somewhere probaly not with the others tho :x)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (yes, Corpseborn would be expected to stay apart from the other guests, not to share the same food, etc. They probably have a special mat you can sit on.)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (that they can burn later...)
* Daifan will dress fancy for the fancy wedding though ;p

The wedding ceremony takes place

<Ashnabis_Narrator> Thelef is led out by his brother Galideir, dressed in a lavish green dashi fastened at his waist, shot through with threads of gold. A necklace of copper and jade is around his neck, and his hair is tied back in a series of braids clasped with copper as well. He looks very handsome.
* Thelef smiles at you, trying not to stumble.
<Daifan> . o O (Oof, what a hottie)
* Llillilli swallows nervously.
* Thelef takes your hand and brings you up to the priestess to begin the ceremony.
* Omoshla begins to speak solemnly.
<Omoshla> Before the eyes of the ancestors and living members of the Aanilaus and Ghughife lineages, we come to join these their descendants Thelef and Llillilli in marriage.
* Llillilli holds on tightly.
* Omoshla has clearly practiced on saying your name properly, and does a reasonably good job of it.
<Omoshla> The paths that these two have traveled have brought them each to this point, but from here, their road will be one that they will journey on together. Llillilli and Thelef, may your feet always travel on firm ground towards the same destination.
<Omoshla> No one can know what the road before you will bring, but it will be your duty to help one another through good and bad, with patience and perseverance, for as long as you live.
* Omoshla takes a simple clay bowl full of water from the table behind her, and offers you each a sip from it.
* Thelef drinks.
* Llillilli drinks from it carefully.
<Omoshla> Without water there is no life - may you be blessed with a long and satisfying life together, to quench one another's thirst.
* Omoshla then follows this with a bowl full of newly-sprouted grains, presenting you each with a few to eat.
<Omoshla> Each seed has within it the potential to bring forth new life - may you be blessed with a fruitful and productive life together.
* Thelef eats the grains.
* Llillilli follows suit.
* Omoshla takes a third bowl, this one full of a mix of spices, and offers you a taste, the seasonings burning a little on your tongue.
<Omoshla> Spices give seasoning to life - may you be blessed with a prosperous and delightful life together, with a little spice for excitement.
* Thelef gives you a little wink, you think.
* Daifan smirks
* Omoshla then brings forth the bowl with the fermented hamag. The smell is ... indescribable.
* Omoshla places a piece on your tongue, and one on Thelef's.
<Omoshla> The hamag which you caught together shows that you can work together through your lives - may you be always blessed with unity of purpose and a shared destiny.
* Omoshla mixes the substances together - hamag, spices, grains, and water - into a single bowl, forming a kind of soup, and places them over the fire to warm for your later post-ceremony meal.
* Omoshla then brings forth a pair of long red silk aunas. She wraps one around your shoulder, then brings it around to drape it over Thelef's as well, before doing the same with the second one across your other shoulders, bringing you into a close embrace facing one another.
<Omoshla> Let this show that you are now bound to one another, with a tie that you have chosen and accepted willingly. You are now husband and wife.
* Thelef smiles as he leans down to give you a kiss.
* Llillilli smiles back :3
<Daifan> :3
* Daifan will give them a Fortune if I'm close enough :3
* Jimba cheers and claps.
* Katenzhi does so as well!
<Ashnabis_Narrator> With that, the formal part of the ceremony is concluded, and the feast that the Aanilaus lineage have prepared can begin :)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> There is food other than fermented fish soup, fortunately ;)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Probably at least a couple roasted goats, warm bread, many different fruits and vegetables and cheese...
<Ashnabis_Narrator> Steve says 'eels'.
<AshnabisGM> Definitely eels.

Katenzhi and Bivizmi talk to Jimba

<Ashnabis_Narrator> Okay - Katenzhi, your parents are busy mingling with the Aanilaus guests - no doubt your father is networking, but at least they don't seem to be causing any issues. Everyone seems to be having a good time.
* Katenzhi is enjoying the food and drink and company.
<Bivizmi> That was really sweet. I've never seen a ceremony with fish in it, but I can see how it makes sense :)
* Katenzhi laughs.
<Katenzhi> They look great together. I'm really happy for them.
* Bivizmi nods
<Bivizmi> I don't know if it's an appropriate time but... can we talk to Jimba for a little bit?
* Bivizmi asks cautiously
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> There's food and drink and people are happy. Now's as good a time as any.
<Bivizmi> okay.
* Katenzhi will look around for Jimba and signal him over.
* Jimba will extricate himself from schmoozing with the other guests and make his way over to Katenzhi and Bivizmi.
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> Hey you two. Having a good time?
<Bivizmi> It's a lovely celebration.
* Jimba nods.
<Bivizmi> I know this is kind of an awkward topic to bring up, but ... I don't know how else to do it, so I'm just going to do it. I guess Katenzhi talked to you about the idea of us getting married?
* Jimba laughs.
<Jimba> Uh, yes, it's been brought up.
<Bivizmi> Right, okay.
* Bivizmi smiles nervously.
<Katenzhi> That's my girl. She's very direct.
<Jimba> Not a bad trait in a partner.
* Jimba smiles.
* Bivizmi blushes a bit.
<Jimba> Uh, for you, I mean.
<Katenzhi> For you or me?
* Katenzhi laughs
<Jimba> Not for me. I mean, I guess a business partner, sort of. And a family member, obviously, depending.
<Bivizmi> I know this is a lot to ask of you. I mean... it's a big decision for anyone. but in this case, especially... I wouldn't want to make a bad choice.
<Bivizmi> We'd be kind of stuck if it turned out to be the wrong decision >.> But I guess that's true of any marriage.
* Jimba nods.
<Katenzhi> Jimba, you know I'd never ask you to do anything you didn't want to. Not for me, anyway.
<Jimba> Well, how pressing do we think the decision is?
<Jimba> If we're being direct here, you two haven't been together all that long, right?
<Bivizmi> The pressure's mostly on Katenzhi at the moment. My family aren't in as much of a rush.
<Katenzhi> No... not that long.
* Bivizmi nods
<Jimba> It's a big commitment all around.
<Jimba> But I can talk to my aunt and uncle, maybe put them off a bit.
<Katenzhi> I'd like for you two to get to know each other. Mom and Dad will probably start shopping around for husbands for me soon, but you might have more time. I don't really know.
<Jimba> I don't want you both to have to make a decision about what you want with this pressure hanging over your heads.
<Bivizmi> If you think you and Kat can put them off for a bit, that would give us some more time to figure things out all around.
<Katenzhi> We can probably stall them a bit.
* Jimba nods.
<Bivizmi> I would want all of us to be happy with whatever situation we wind up with. Like Kat said, I would never expect you to give up your own hopes of the future for me and her.
<Jimba> I appreciate that.
<Katenzhi> Yeah. I want you to be happy too.
<Jimba> But there are a lot of types of futures.
<Jimba> And I'll be fine.
<Bivizmi> Well... what do you want, for your future? If you could choose.
<Jimba> Hmm.
<Jimba> A happy, prosperous family. :)
<Jimba> And you?
<Bivizmi> A successful business... a family I can depend on and who will help me in those goals... to make great discoveries and learn as much as I can. but that part is less about family and more just about me, I guess, except that I would presumably be doing those things with the support of my family.
<Katenzhi> You both have a great head for business.
<Bivizmi> And to help them, as well. That kind of makes it sound like I just want people around me who'll let me do my work, but that wasn't how I meant it.
* Jimba smiles.
* Katenzhi grins.
<Jimba> I took your meaning.
<Katenzhi> It kinda is.
<Bivizmi> It's a mutually beneficial agreement - if I have support to do my work, I can better support my family, too :)
<Jimba> Perfectly understandable.
* Katenzhi fidgets a bit nervously.
* Bivizmi takes Katenzhi's hand.
* Katenzhi smiles and squeezes lightly.
<Bivizmi> Is everything okay?
<Katenzhi> Yeah, sorry. Just... you know, not everyday you talk about deciding the whole rest of your life... and that of the people you love.
* Jimba looks over at Llillilli and Thelef.
<Jimba> Well, I mean, it's been somewhat common recently.
<Bivizmi> It's a lot to think about. But... it's better we think about it ourselves than wait until our relatives think about it and make a decision we can't abide with.
* Jimba nods.
<Katenzhi> Yeah
<Katenzhi> I just... I don't want to hurt anyone.
<Bivizmi> None of us do.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Bivizmi> The other thing is...
<Bivizmi> Well - if Jimba and I were married, it wouldn't solve the issue for you completely. You'd still either need to put your parents off indefinitely, or find someone you could be content with too.
<Jimba> This is true.
<Katenzhi> Yeah... I know.
<Katenzhi> Got any boyfriends you want to keep around, Jimba?
* Katenzhi laughs
* Jimba laughs.
<Jimba> Not, uh, not that I think I could. :)
* Katenzhi 's smile fades a bit.
<Katenzhi> Oh... Um... I didn't think... why not?
<Jimba> It's...complicated. But it's also not anything yet, so nothing to worry about.
<Katenzhi> ok... well... I guess we'll try to figure something out.
* Bivizmi nods sympathetically
<Jimba> For now, let's just enjoy the feast, eh?
* Katenzhi smiles again.
<Katenzhi> Ok
<Bivizmi> Hopefully we can buy some time. I'd like a chance to talk to you more... just under ordinary circumstances, so we can get to know each other. But yes - this is a party, so we should enjoy ourselves :)
* Jimba nods.
<Bivizmi> It was nice to talk with you, Jimba. Thank you for being so kind and welcoming :)
<Jimba> Of course, and likewise.
<Jimba> Why don't you come over for dinner some time? We can all talk, and Kat can walk you home.
<Bivizmi> That sounds great.
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> Now, I need to go be a good in-law and businessman and make the rounds.
<Jimba> Have fun you two.
* Katenzhi gives Jimba a hug.
* Jimba will hug back.
* Katenzhi will turn back to Bivizmi and smile.
<Katenzhi> I told you he's a great guy.
* Bivizmi smiles back

King Whuthe gives Llillilli a wedding gift

<AshnabisGM> Lllillilli, at a moment when Thelef is being feted by various cousins you can't keep straight, Their Majesty King Whuthe approaches you deliberately.
* Whuthe is draped in pearls, shells, and raiment of lithus. They are ... resplendent.
* Llillilli will bow low.
<Llillilli> Your majesty...
<Whuthe> Rise, child of the sun, with my blessing.
<Whuthe> We are honoured to share in this day with you.
* Llillilli straightens.
<Llillilli> I am.. very honoured that you came
<Whuthe> I regret that I could not announce it in advance. It was judged to be unwise to do so.
* Llillilli desperately wants to ask why but...
<Llillilli> I understand.
<Whuthe> You have recently had your pfullaes. Our great congratulations to you.
<Llillilli> Thank you. IT was an experience I will never forget.
<Whuthe> I assure you you are not alone in that. You have been touched by the selleluf. That is ... most extraordinary.
<Llillilli> I am told it's not supposed to happen to... humans.
<Whuthe> Who are we to tell the sun what it is supposed to do? It is supposed to rise and fall, that is all we know.
<Whuthe> Let us think of it as an unexpected surprise - as in the ancient times, when we did not know how to foretell the eclipse.
* Llillilli smiles.
<Llillilli> Thank you... that's very wise, your majesty.
<Whuthe> You have been told, though, that not all will see it that way. And so we must be very cautious in ... overinterpreting what happened.
<Llillilli> Yes, I have been worried about that...
<Llillilli> So I mostly just. Don't talk about it. Except with Thelef.
<Whuthe> You should be. It would be irresponsible of me to tell you otherwise. Your name has been spoken many times at court of late.
* Llillilli frowns a bit.
<Llillilli> Oh.
<Llillilli> I guess... not in a good way?
<Whuthe> Not always. The fact that my closest human advisor is marrying a selleluf ... it is not ideal politically.
<Llillilli> I'm sorry... I don't understand.
<Llillilli> What does it mean... politically?
<Whuthe> Since there are those who oppose me, particularly among the solars, they are upset that it happened, especially so close to the wedding. Of all the humans for this to happen to, you are, to them, the most inconvenient. And while I would wish to take joy from it - their disappointment is not to be disregarded.
* Llillilli nods slowly.
<Whuthe> Thus I could not make more of this visit.
<Whuthe> But I do have something for you.
* Whuthe waves a hand and as if awaiting a signal, a hith comes forward and gives them a box.
* Whuthe hands it to you.
<Whuthe> A gift, from our court to you.
<Llillilli> Oh! Thank you.
<Whuthe> We have a similar one for your groom. We shall give it to him later, but we ... I wanted you to have this and know it is from me, to you.
<Llillilli> I am very honored, your Majesty...
<Llillilli> SHould I open it?
<Whuthe> By all means.
* Llillilli looks inside >.>
<AshnabisGM> You open the box and see a pair of extremely fine pfethes, seemingly of ancient construction.
<Llillilli> Oh... this is magnificent. Thank you so much.
<Llillilli> :o
<Whuthe> Captain Fifelus tells me you have been learning quickly. May these serve you well.
<Llillilli> I will strive to be worthy of them, your majesty.
<Whuthe> Soon, we will host you at the court, you and your groom, and we will be pleased to speak with you further then.
<Whuthe> For now, take these as a token of esteem, and we shall talk more, of both weighty things and trifles.
* Llillilli nods, still kind of in awe.
* Whuthe leaves you in awe.

Junan talks with Daifan and Sulidein

<Ashnabis_Narrator> Junan, you are enjoying the party, but of course can't help but notice Daifan is here, with Sulidein as a companion. Is it appropriate to go talk to them under the circumstances? Who's to say? But with enough drinks, anything becomes suitable, right?
<Junan> (you bet!)
* Junan will approach the pair (or just one if I cant find both?)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (if we have Daifan it can be both :)
* Sulidein gives you a nod of greeting as you approach. (and Daifan can join us later if Heather is around)
<Junan> Hello. Have we met?
* Junan says with a smile
<Sulidein> Well... only in passing. We do work in the same place :)
* Sulidein says politely.
* Daifan smiles and take s a big drink of whatever they're drinking :x
<Daifan> Yes.... surely you've seen each other around :x
<Sulidein> I'm on the other surveying team so our paths don't cross too often, but once in a while.
<Junan> My appologies, although our paths have not really crossed, have they.
* Sulidein nods
<Junan> It was quite the ceremony. First time I've had the pleasure of seeing one here.
<Junan> you enjoying things well enough?
<Sulidein> Yes - I've been to a few but mostly as help. This is more enjoyable.
<Daifan> We have out own little feast and place to sit ^-^
<Daifan> It has its advatages :3
<Sulidein> So far people have been quite welcoming... all things considered.
<Junan> I suppose these are an old traditional folk.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> I KNow llillilli would have pushed for us to be more... included, but I thought she had enough to deal with on her wedding day
* Junan nods
<Sulidein> Things may change, but they change slowly. It's good just to have a chance to celebrate with everyone else, even if we have to do so with separate food.
<Junan> I'm just glad you could be here for her.
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> Yes, she was insistent that I attend.... and she looks so happy :3
<Daifan> they're very sweet together
* Sulidein nods
<Junan> I do hope he knows what he's in for.
<Daifan> I think he does
* Junan lightly teases
<Sulidein> Hopefully they'll have many happy years together.
<Daifan> ^-^
<Daifan> The Hith king is here though :o
<Daifan> So I hope she knows what *she* is in for :x
* Daifan will point them out as if that's necessary
<Sulidein> Yes, I can't imagine he comes to every wedding of a hith or hithkindred - it must be something special, to be sure.
<Junan> I know! Its the first time I've ever seen anything like that.
<Junan> but hey, maybe their kings are more relatable than those of our kind
<Daifan> Well... Thelef is one of his advisors
<Daifan> so that's maybe why
<Daifan> But they thought it was because of somethign that happened at her... Age ceremony?
<Sulidein> What happened?
<Daifan> She was touched by sunlight? I don't really understand it, but it seemed liek a big deal. NO one had ever seen it happen to a human.
<Sulidein> Huh, interesting.
* Daifan shrugs
<Daifan> Shes still herself though, so I don't really now what that changes.
<Junan> an omen of something?
* Junan shrugs
<Sulidein> Hopefully a good one?
<Daifan> Mmmhmm
<Junan> can't be that bad if the king showed up
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> I saw her talkign to them earlier
* Sulidein nods
* Sulidein puts his arm affectionately around Daifan's waist as we talk.
* Daifan is a little tense but will certainly not object
<Sulidein> What about you, did you bring a guest?
* Sulidein asks Junan in a friendly fashion
* Junan gives a quick look to Daifan but keeps his face stoic
* Daifan looks a bit... apologetic maybe
<Junan> no guest with me, alas.
<Junan> It's by choice.
* Daifan smiles a bit wistfully
<Sulidein> Well, that's not so bad then. You could meet someone here, perhaps :)
<Junan> I'll likely drink enough wine for three, so how could I tax the party by bringing someone?
* Sulidein chuckles at that
* Daifan laughs
<Daifan> Well, don't get too drunk... who will help you stumble your way home? ;)
<Sulidein> At least you don't have to make it all the way back to Banei, like we do ;)
<Junan> I'm quite adept at stumbling, when I need to.
<Daifan> Mmhmm, that is true.
* Daifan says, to one or both of those statements
* Daifan will take another drink of their beverage
<Sulidein> well - speaking of drinks, I was going to get a bit more from our separate stash. Would you like another too, Daifan?
<Junan> I'm sure if things get so bad that I am in need of assistance, I have no lack of friends here who could help.
<Daifan> Oh, yes please :3
* Daifan hands him their mostly empty cup for refilling
* Sulidein will take your cup and go off to get us some refills, leaving you a moment alone with Junan.
* Junan looks after Sulidein as they walk away
* Daifan is watching you
<Junan> that is not what I expected to stumble into when I came to chat
<Daifan> I'm sorry.
* Daifan says contritely
<Junan> you have nothing to appologize for.
<Daifan> Mmm... I know. But still.
<Junan> I could have read the situation before blundering over
* Junan takes a drink of wine
<Daifan> I like him a lot... and I didn't want to come here alone. And I wasn't ready to see if you wanted to come with me :x
* Daifan offers you their hand
* Junan glances to gauge where Sulidein is before taking it
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (he's still some distance away)
<Ashnabis_Narrator> (occupied with pouring wine)
* Daifan will relax a little more, and smile
<Junan> I want you to have a good time... I'll be fine
<Daifan> well I hope you will have a good time, too
<Junan> wine, food, music... how could I not?
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> Mmhmm.
* Daifan regards you, trying top juudge how you might actually be feeling, and gives your hand a squeeze
<Daifan> We can have our own good time, another day.
<Junan> I know. I do hope Sulidein knows how lucky they are.
* Junan gives a squeeze back before letting go
* Sulidein comes back over, offering Daifan the drink with a smile.
<Junan> enjoy yourselves... I feel some music needs playing... always happens with wine
<Sulidein> Sounds wonderful - have a good evening :)
<Daifan> Yes :)

News arrives for King Whuthe about the attack on Pashas

<Ashnabis_Narrator> As the evening proceeds, a pair of young hith come into the hall unannounced and head over to King Whuthe. One of them speaks, quickly and quietly, to their liege, outside your hearing, their whispery tones hardly carrying across the great lineage hall.
* Jimba will clock that and try to keep an eye on it.
<Jimba> (If possible)
* Whuthe sits quietly, their crests twitching, though, suggesting concern. After a moment, they stand and walk over to the happy couple seated among the Aanilaus.
<Whuthe> Blessed Lllillilli and Thelef, we must speak with you.
<Thelef> Privately?
* Thelef asks, looking concerned.
<Whuthe> Yes.
<Llillilli> Alright...
* Llillilli also frowns
* Thelef will step aside with the king and Llillilli, into a more secluded room within the lineage house.
<Whuthe> I will need to depart. My apologies for the suddenness of my actions.
<Thelef> Is there some problem? Can we help?
<Llillilli> Did something bad happen?
<Whuthe> Unfortunately, yes.
<Whuthe> There has been an attack, a raid, on the town of Pfaeshes. There have been many injuries, and some deaths, both of humans and of the People. This cannot be permitted.
* Llillilli gasps.
<Llillilli> Who... Who would do this?!
* Thelef looks surprised and upset.
<Whuthe> It is said that the pirate lordling Yeggun has set himself up as king on the island of Ruur, and is flying a Choradani banner.
* Thelef frowns
<Llillilli> Bastard...
<Thelef> Is he working for the Sentinels now?
<Whuthe> The details, as yet, are sparse. One can only speculate.
<Whuthe> There is no choice. I must return immediately.
<Thelef> We need to find out more, then.
<Thelef> Do you need me to go with you, my lord?
* Whuthe nods, human-style.
<Whuthe> Not today, but soon, Thelef, I shall be calling on you to return to Sulise, I am afraid.
<Whuthe> I would not deprive you of your wedding night.
<Thelef> I understand.
<Llillilli> Should we... go to Pfaeshes?
<Whuthe> That would not be safe.
<Llillilli> I knew those Sentinels would be trouble >:(
<Whuthe> It is regrettable, but in our second cresting, it seems we must once more lead our people to war.
<Thelef> We'll find out what is happening, and help however we can.
<Whuthe> Thank you, my trusted friend.
<Thelef> Thank you for gracing us with your presence today.
* Thelef bows respectfully.
* Whuthe takes his leave quickly, with most of the hith leaving with him.
<Llillilli> I've got to tell Jimba.

Jimba hears the news and talks to Liraula

* Jimba will approach the couple after Whuthe leaves.
<Thelef> All right...
<Jimba> Everything all right? That looked serious.
<Llillilli> And there he is
<Llillilli> No! It is not!
<Llillilli> That pirate shit Yuggep attacked Pfaeshes!
<Jimba> Not serious, or not all right...oh shit!
<Llillilli> under a Choradani flag!
<Jimba> ...
* Jimba 's face is both incredulous and furious.
<Llillilli> I knew those Sentinels were trouble. I knew it
<Jimba> That's...an act of war.
<Jimba> I need to...there are some people I should talk to, find out more about this.
<Thelef> It seems so.
<Jimba> Llillilli, I don't want to spoil your day here, but I may have to leave, at least for a bit.
* Jimba looks around.
<Jimba> Though there are some people here who might have some information. Or at least who I should talk to.
<Llillilli> It's fine.
<Thelef> Finding out more is a good idea. We don't want to leap to conclusions.
<Jimba> If I haven't said it already, it was a lovely ceremony, and I'm so happy for you both.
<Llillilli> THanks -_-
* Jimba will shake hands with Thelef.
* Jimba looks at Llillilli.
<Jimba> Indulge me a brotherly hug?
* Thelef returns the gesture, pulling Jimba in for one of those manly hug/shoulder clap things.
<Llillilli> Sure...
* Jimba will give Llillilli a hug.
<Jimba> I'll let you know what I find out.
<Llillilli> Alright.
* Jimba nods in a manner he hopes is reassuring and will go seek out Liraula.
<Thelef> Be safe.
<Jimba> (move that one line down, then ;) )
* Liraula is pretty easy to find - she's having a great time, it seems.
<Liraula> Jimba, my friend! Congratulations to you and your kin!
* Liraula smiles broadly.
* Jimba tries to put up an answering smile.
<Jimba> You look like you're enjoying yourself.
<Liraula> I am! Some of these Aanilauses aren't so bad.
<Liraula> ... something's wrong.
<Jimba> Yes...
<Jimba> Can speak to you privately for a moment?
<Liraula> Yes, of course.
* Jimba will take her aside.
<Jimba> I don't know how many people know this yet, but Yeggun attacked Pfaeshes. Under a Choradani flag.
<Liraula> ... No.
<Liraula> That can't be right.
<Jimba> I got the news from my sister, who just got it from King Whuthe.
<Jimba> I'm not inclined to disbelieve them.
<Liraula> Yeggun hates the Choradani and the feeling is mutual.
<Jimba> Maybe it's a false flag.
<Jimba> Details are sparse at the moment.
<Jimba> I'm going to try to find out more, but I thought you should know.
<Liraula> If it's a false flag, then he's a fool - or has allies.
<Jimba> He's definitely the former, and I imagine the latter is true as well.
<Liraula> Well, shit.
<Jimba> He's trying to start something, and I'm worried it's going to be a war.
<Jimba> This is idiotic, even for him.
<Liraula> Pirates don't start wars, we profit from them.
<Jimba> So then it would behoove you to start them, wouldn't it?
* Jimba smirks.
<Liraula> He'll hang.
<Jimba> If I have any say in it, sure.
<Liraula> Listen, Jimba ...
<Liraula> My nephew, Aptan. He serves as Yeggun's ... apprentice, on the Cormorant.
* Jimba frowns.
<Liraula> Yeggun's a fool, and Aptan too, but I don't want to see my kinsman hurt.
<Jimba> I'll do everything I can.
<Jimba> But I'm not exactly in a position of power here.
<Liraula> Me neither.
<Jimba> Just a man blessed with many friends. :/
<Liraula> I don't think there's anything to do tonight. I'll find out more in the morning.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> I've got others to talk to, but I thought you should know.
* Liraula nods.
<Liraula> Thank you, JImba.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> I'd say enjoy the rest of the feast, but...
* Jimba shrugs apologetically.
<Liraula> Yeah.
<Jimba> I'm sure we'll speak more in the coming days.
* Jimba will nod and clap her on the shoulder and head off.