Nemnosti session 18

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Session

Session date: November 24, 2024

Negili Reckoning date: IE 768, Gugivas

Prologue

[NemnostiGM] Greetings, acolytes! Now that it is Gugivas, the long month, we are all looking forward to Romokh and the coming of the harvest, and the cooler weather. But we still have some time yet, so I'll keep the fire low. The reckoners tell us that Gugivas was an Omban from before the Empire, even, a farmer who became a soldier, and then returned to his fields after his service was done. They say he was a giant, but of course we know that tales can grow in size over time. And there are those who say he was not even a real person, just a folktale. But no need to worry about that. Ancient times and stories are good for their lessons, though. Above all they remind us that what we are going through now, no matter how upsetting, will in time be forgotten, will be the stuff of legend. Except, of course, to the Carver Herself, and the various ulale. They remember for us, even when we are gone.

Alai meets with her grandmother Uvragaz, who tells her she is dying and gives her a stone amulet of Abyssal power

[NemnostiGM] Alai, you have been continuing your research into Abyssal magic and things that might shed light on recent events. It's hard, because it's not like people report these things in the histories exactly as they happened, and of course, they didn't understand them either.
[NemnostiGM] Still, it is good to be working on things that matter both to you, and to Her, and that bear on present circumstances. A person likes to feel useful, after all.
[NemnostiGM] One morning, you are just about to head over to the arcane library when you see the stoneguard Rubo Keronaf escorting your grandmother Uvragaz down the hallway towards you.
[Rubo] There she is now!
* Rubo booms loudly, which is his usual mode of speech.
* Uvragaz is dressed in very traditional Luetkan garb, which is definitely too heavy for the Pardopasu in the heat of summer, with layers of skirts and a heavy blue headscarf.
[Alai] ~in Leutka "Grandmother"
* Alai is dressed in a light loosefitting dress, a typical attire for spending the hot day in books, with only about half of the normal amount of bracelets and rings on.
[NemnostiGM] (we'll just assume you're speaking Luetkan from now on with her, and obviously Ombesh with Rubo)
* Alai moves to greet her
[Alai] what brings you seeking me so unexpectedly?
[Rubo] Alai, your grandmother has come by herself, all the way from Bemnes, this morning, to see you.
[Rubo] But I should leave you to it. Unless you need my assistance for anything.
[Alai] I have her, we will be fine.
* Rubo nods.
[Rubo] All right. You can bring her back to the West Gate when you're done with ... whatever it is.
* Uvragaz waves the big man off dismissively.
* Rubo strides off, shaking his head.
[Alai] Come, lets find an appropriate sitting room, and a cool drink I think.
[Alai] What would make you come here now in this heat?
[Uvragaz] Yes, of course, granddaughter.
[Uvragaz] We have much to talk about, and some urgency.
* Alai will find an appropriately private spot
[Alai] (and will have procured a cool tea for her)
[Alai] unless you with something stronger?
[Uvragaz] Tea will do for now.
[Uvragaz] So, you are wondering why I am here, and why Roska is not here, and why I would tolerate this terrible heat that I have spent the last seventy years hating to come all this way.
* Alai gives her a look of "exactly" and lets her continue
[Uvragaz] I have things to say, and very little time.
[Uvragaz] I am dying.
[Alai] what has promptes this awareness?
[Uvragaz] For some, when they get old, they become peaceful and calm like the bay at dawn. And then some, like me, see the stormclouds coming and feel the shift, as when rain is about to fall.
[Uvragaz] I am well enough, for now, but I cannot say that we will have other chances to speak.
[Alai] Say what you need, since you took all this time to come to me. I am listening.
[Uvragaz] Roska is going to contract the marriage for you with the Nemni boy, provided that you are not too vigorous in opposition.
[Uvragaz] If you were to oppose it with enough spirit, he would continue to look elsewhere.
[Alai] I'm still undecided, but I will be decisive soon.
* Uvragaz nods.
[Uvragaz] As you know, my own life was radically transformed and interrupted when I was about your age, brought here against my will.
[Uvragaz] I made the best of it, though not without complaint.
[Alai] worry not grandmother, I will have the hand on the rudder of any transformation applied to me.
* Longpig (~Longpiglns5-pool7-088.adsl.user.start.ca) has joined #nemnosti
[Uvragaz] Roska, you know his goals for you are political. Instrumental. To build a tie, to end the stigma attached to Vegrus, and others.
* Lan-home (~Lan-homelns5-pool7-088.adsl.user.start.ca) has joined #nemnosti
* Longpig is now known as Marga
[Uvragaz] I do not begrudge him the goal. You will only imagine hte ways in which he was beaten, harassed, as a child. I could not protect him.
[Uvragaz] I do not much care if you marry this boy, or some other boy, or no boy at all.
[Alai] Your cares are appreciated.
[Uvragaz] When I visited last time, I told you to find your anchor, you remember? When we talked about the deep blue, and my uncle, and Kaanath.
[Alai] I remember. I tried to learn more about Kaanath, but there are little references in this local.
[Uvragaz] I wanted to be sure you did not think that a marriage is an anchor. Because I assure you, it is no such thing. An anchor is not meant to hold you in one place forever. It is a tool, a technology, developed over many centuries.
[Uvragaz] Your anchor is your connection to your home, and to the things that will keep you from being pulled too far into the deep blue.
[Uvragaz] An unhappy marriage will draw you further in. So you should be careful to ensure that whatever you do, does not pull you into the vortex.
[Uvragaz] An anchor is only as good as its chain, which must be flexible and not rigid.
[Alai] I am glad I am undecided, for now I have even more to consider.
[Uvragaz] I do not know more about that word, Kaanath, than you do.
[Uvragaz] I am no scholar - it is just a word that Leu said to me. I do not even know what tongue it comes from.
[Alai] It's meaning will reveal itself to me eventually, fear not.
* Alai says with confidence
[Uvragaz] I have always believed that putting down the Blue Storm, killing Leu, breaking us apart, was about more than merely ending raids. I think that He knew what our power was, which was why He knew the danger that Leu presented to Him, to his false Empire, all of that.
[Uvragaz] I know that Leu, in those heady years, felt his own power, his confidence, was coming from the deep blue.
[Uvragaz] I couldn't say all of this to you clearly when we met last. Your father was there, we were talking about marriages, and in any case, I was too surprised to put it all into words. But I have had time now to reflect.
* Uvragaz pauses and adjusts her headscarf.
[Alai] The power is real Grandmother. I can show you.
* Uvragaz nods.
[Uvragaz] Show it to me, this last time, before I am gone.
* Alai takes her hands
[Alai] Let me put reality to belief, so you may feel confident when you go that you were correct all these years.
* Alai embraces the Dark Half and will cast Aura Sight on her Grandmother.
[NemnostiGM] (ok go ahead and roll)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+13
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 17 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 30 ].
[NemnostiGM] You see a magical aura on your grandmother, an object on a chain around her neck.
* Uvragaz sees the change in your demeanor and appearance, and smiles warmly, as if being reacquainted with an old friend.
[Alai] What is that you wear on your neck?
[Uvragaz] You see it, then ... it is a gift that I was bringing for you.
* Uvragaz removes it. It is a ... strange and lumpy rock that emanates what you can now see is strong enchantment magic.
* Uvragaz hands it to you.
[Uvragaz] I will have no use for it soon enough.
* Alai takes it trying to delve its secrets
[NemnostiGM] (sorry, correction, it is actually strong transmutation, not strong enchantment, my bad)
[Uvragaz] It is stone, but once it was of the Ninth Whale, Tuuharana.
[Alai] This is a precious gift Grandmother.
[Uvragaz] Her ambergris, forged in her spirit, and stored in her anger.
[Uvragaz] And then, become stone upon its release to us, her people.
[Uvragaz] The Ombans have many silly beliefs, but they know about the power of the organs.
[Alai] (so what does it do? or can it do?)
[Uvragaz] I will not say that I know exactly how to use it. It is meant to allow us to fight the creatures of the spirit world.
[Alai] I will keep it close always and ensure it lives up to its purpose.
[NemnostiGM] Alai, your arcane sight allows you to determine that it allows attacks to affect creatures and beings outside of the ordinary Coherence. But it is very strange magic indeed, and its specific powers elude you for now, and will need more research.
[Uvragaz] No one bothered to take it from me, when we were sent here. Because it looks like nothing more than a strange rock, I suppose.
[Alai] I suspect its true nature is only revealed to those who are connected to it.
* Alai will allow her Grandmother to put it around her neck.
* Uvragaz nods, and does so, and you see a small tear at the corner of her eye.
[Uvragaz] Alai, while I know you did not choose to be my granddaughter, I am glad that the tides brought us together in this way.
* Alai release her spell and Dark Half.
[Uvragaz] Leu would be proud of you.
[Alai] my path has carried me far from the waves. I am greater from it. It is always my intention to return to them.
* Alai hugs her Grandmother.
[Uvragaz] It is my hope to return there too. Roska knows, and I hope you will keep him to it, when I am gone.
[Alai] I will make it happen even if I have to bring you myself.
[Uvragaz] And one last, request, Granddaughter...
[Uvragaz] I have never really had it in me to hate the Ombans. They are people, they love, they are kind. Do not hate the Ombans. But their Emperor, their One, who sent us here. Remember my hate for Him, keep that in your memory, after I am gone.
[Alai] I will keep your hate safe, I promise.
* Uvragaz smiles.
[Uvragaz] Goodbye, Alai.
[Alai] Goodbye, Grandmother
* Uvragaz will let you escort her back to the West Gate where she can head back home.

Marga is questioned by Fultukhari about what it is like to kill someone and have sex with a woman (not the same one!)

[NemnostiGM] Marga, you've been diligent about your duties at the ulajeta while making time to head up to Lurusiru to Rechegoko's encampment now and again. No more visits from weird old loner priests, although you have seen Rupun once or twice up there.
[NemnostiGM] About mid-afternoon on a hot day, you're just doing some stretches when you see Fultukhari coming over towards you.
* Uvragaz is now known as Fultukhari
[Marga] Oh hi! :)
[Fultukhari] Hi Marga! Uhh ... I wanted to talk to you about a couple of things.
* Fultukhari definitely seems more serious than usual.
[Marga] Sure! What's going on?
* Fultukhari pauses, as if trying to put his thoughts together, which is the most thoughtful you've ever seen him.
[Fultukhari] The other day, over by the well ... you killed that lady.
[Marga] She was... she was kind of already gone. But yeah, I guess so.
[Fultukhari] Was that, like ... what did it feel like?
[Marga] Uh...
[Marga] I don't... I don't really think about...um... Necessary I guess?
[Marga] She was melting Kuspir.
[Fultukhari] yeah, I mean, I don't mean whether it was a good or a bad thing.
[Marga] What do you mean then?
[Fultukhari] Just like, is it different than when you just punch someone, to actually kill them?
* Marga thinks real hard.
* Marga takes a breath.
[Marga] This isn't something I talk about... I mean, you're the only one who's asked me exactly, but
[Marga] When I'm fighting for... not just to stop someone, you know... I kind of. I let something out of me
* Fultukhari nods thoughtfully.
[Fultukhari] Like when you can't help it, it just has to come out and your arms go crazy?
[Marga] NOt... exactly... I don't know. I'm not good with words. I
[Marga] ...
[Marga] I call it feeding the dog.
* Marga gets a bit of a 1000 yard stare for a moment
* Fultukhari looks at you, confused.
[Fultukhari] The dog?
[Marga] The... yeah, you know, never mind that. Haha.
* Fultukhari laughs, still confused.
[Fultukhari] My dad died, twice. But I'm not allowed to talk about it. Or to him, at all.
[Fultukhari] It's ok though, he came back both times.
[Marga] Your father is...
[Fultukhari] Lijun Ararta. I'm not supposed to know.
[Fultukhari] But my moms are not as smart as they think they are.
* Marga nods...
[Fultukhari] Moms are usually pretty stupid.
[Marga] Well... I never really had one. Couldn't say
[Marga] Why don't they want you to talk to him?
[Fultukhari] Well. Because I'm not supposed to really know, and it's all awkward.
[Fultukhari] I think they just used him for his, you know ...
[Marga] To have a kid.
* Fultukhari makes the 'spurt spurt' hand motion.
* Marga can't help but snicker a little
[Marga] So they don't know you know?
[Fultukhari] Nope.
[Marga] Maybe you should tell them...
* Fultukhari shrugs.
[Fultukhari] I don't want to get in trouble again.
[Fultukhari] I get in enough trouble.
* Marga frowns.
[Marga] You're not a little kid. You should get to decide if you want to talk to your own father if you want.
[Marga] I wonder if he knows about *you*...
[Fultukhari] He does.
[Marga] You know. Sometimes I go patrolling with him
[Fultukhari] I mean, he is my teacher here, just like my moms. I wonder if any other acolyte has ever had three teacher parents.
* Fultukhari nods.
[Fultukhari] Sure, he's a vulture.
[Marga] If you just, I don't know, happened to come looking for me then
* Fultukhari smiles.
[Fultukhari] You're sneaky!
[Marga] And then I just happened to have to go do something else for a bit...
[Marga] :v
[Fultukhari] Hey, I had another question.
[Marga] Yeah?
[Fultukhari] What's it like to have sex with someone?
[Fultukhari] What does a girl like?
[Marga] Pretty great, as long as everyone is into it, haha
[Marga] Well, I think it depends on the girl
[Fultukhari] So if a girl was feeling sad and alone, maybe, what would I do to like, you know ...
[Marga] Do you actually like this girl or do you just want to have sex with her?
[Fultukhari] No, I like her!
* Fultukhari says indignantly.
[Marga] There's nothing wrong with that if she wants to, too
[Fultukhari] I just, like, ok, it's Lovosa. And we were going to have sex and then ... well, that was when the whole thing happened. And now maybe that screwed it all up.
[Marga] Just... be there for her.
[Marga] Talk to her, and listen to her.
[Fultukhari] It's just like, all weird now.
[Marga] Weird how?
[Fultukhari] Well we saw you kill that lady. So maybe like, weird cause we can't really talk about that.
[Fultukhari] And she doesn't have other people here, you know.
[Marga] See, I'm not real good with subtle. I would just be like, hey Lovosa, things seem weird, do you wanna talk about it?
* Fultukhari nods sagely.
[Marga] And if she doesn't, you could ask if she wants to do something to take her mind off it. Like, not *necessarily* in a sexy way, but. You know
* Fultukhari nods, but in a way that suggests that he doesn't know.
[Fultukhari] There's this other guy too.
[Marga] Like take a walk, or go swimming...
[Marga] What guy?
[Fultukhari] Rembes Sortusai.
[Fultukhari] He's a noble, and he's like, he knows stuff.
[Fultukhari] And like, I know about Nemnosti, but he is like ... smooth.
[Marga] Well, if she was going to have sex with you I think you're doing okay though
[Marga] I mean. You're cuter.
[Marga] He kind of looks like a toe.
* Fultukhari laughs
[Fultukhari] You're not going to tell my moms any of this, right?
* Fultukhari seems worried all of a sudden
[Marga] My lips are sealed :)
* Fultukhari smiles.
[Fultukhari] You're the best, Auntie Marga!
* Marga grins.
[Marga] You're pretty great too ya know :)
[Fultukhari] Someday you'll have to teach me about that dog you were talking about
[Marga] Oh... I dunno if you really want to know him ].]
[Marga] But we can talk about that another time
[Fultukhari] Okay!
[Fultukhari] Talk to you soon!
[Marga] Good luck! :)
[Fultukhari] I'll let you know if I ...
* Fultukhari makes the spurt spurt motion again.
[Marga] No details though, kay? ;)
* Fultukhari laughs.
* Marga laughs as well
* Fultukhari runs off to get into trouble.

Jevai learns from her aunt Naka that her father has turned to drink, so she goes up to the Nadenigh lineage house to deal with him

[NemnostiGM] Jevai, you're working in the library one day when your auntie Naka comes up beside you.
* Rubo is now known as Naka
[Naka] Working on anything interesting?
[Jevai] hmm?
* Jevai looks up frm her research and then smiles when she takes in the context
[Naka] It always seems like you are working on such interesting things. Just wondering what.
[Jevai] In this case, I wasn't finding what I was looking for, so I let myself get distracted pulling at an unrelated thread
[Jevai] this is an old thesis on hmm, grography and astrology
[Jevai] (geography)
* Naka nods.
[Naka] I was up in the village earlier today.
[Naka] Saw your father.
[Jevai] somone who was not Ravre tring to record things they didn't reallyunderstand, and 'm tryng to see what I can make sense of
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] how is he?
* Naka frowns.
[Jevai] is my mother still living with her family?
[Naka] She is.
[Naka] I don't know whether that's likely to change.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] is he running out of distractions, then?
[Naka] When did you speak to him last?
[Jevai] too long, it seems
[Naka] You might want to visit, rather promptly.
[Jevai] what is it?
[Naka] He's been drinking.
[Jevai] ahh.
[Naka] I can't really talk to him, you understand.
[Naka] He understands rightly that I have to stand with my sister, even when she is not blameless.
[Jevai] I dont know if I can talk to him either
[Jevai] but I can go and see him
* Naka nods.
[Naka] That's all anyone could ask.
* Jevai nods as well
[NemnostiGM] (all right, would you like to go soon, or wait?)
[Jevai] (soon... I can use the ecuse to go see what the Crack is doign too afterwards -_-)
[Izu] Gotta check on your crack every once in a while. Make sure the seeping hasn't gotten worse.
[Izu] (Gah, ww)
[NemnostiGM] All right, you can head up later that day or in the evening, to the Nadenigh lineage. It's not hard to find your dad.
* Naka is now known as Porfo
* Porfo smells heavily of beska beer.
[Jevai] (Is he at home or at the lineage house?)
[Porfo] (lineage house, we'll say)
[Jevai] (convenient)
* Jevai willl come and sit beside him
[Jevai] hi dad
[Porfo] Oh ... hello, Jevai. How did you get here?
[Jevai] through the inscrutable ways of the source.
* Porfo laughs.
[Jevai] I walked
* Jevai smiles
[Porfo] Dijur said you were here a little while ago.
[Jevai] yes, breiefly
[Jevai] It was a very busy night, so I didn't have time to stop in.
[Porfo] Was that actually inscrutable source business?
[Jevai] have you been staying here?
[Porfo] Dijur suggested I should.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] it's good to be with friends, isn't it?
[Porfo] I suppose so, Jevai. I don't know.
[Jevai] no?
* Porfo shrugs.
[Jevai] what don't you know, dad/
[Jevai] ?
[Porfo] Whether I have friends.
* Jevai nods
* Jevai takes his hand
[Jevai] Do you want to tell me about that?
[Porfo] You're all I have left now.
[Porfo] And I can't impose on you. You're too important.
[Jevai] If I am all you have left, then what you choice do you have?
[Jevai] If you're too afraid to impose on me, then do you have me at all?
[Porfo] I'm not sure what you want me to say.
[Porfo] Your mother and I ... I think it is the end for us.
[Porfo] The business with Pughan's exile was the last straw.
[Jevai] That might be true. I don't know.
[Jevai] Do you want it to be?
* Porfo pauses.
[Porfo] It was my choice to leave.
[Porfo] But that is not an answer to your question.
* Jevai waits
[Porfo] When you knock a bottle off the table and it smashes to pieces, only a fool tries to glue it back together.
[Jevai] a bottle is a common thing, easily replaced
[Porfo] So perhaps I need a new wife!
* Porfo chokes out an ironic laugh.
[Jevai] -_-
[Jevai] That's still not an answer
[Porfo] I don't know, Jevai. I feel like I've lost all my purpose.
[Porfo] I don't want to die but I don't know how to go on living.
* Jevai nods
[Porfo] I'm glad you came though, Jevai. I'm sorry I'm not better company.
[Jevai] It's okay.
[Jevai] I love you dad, and I forgive you, okay?
* Porfo smiles.
[Porfo] I love you too, Sifri.

Izu and Ifa talk about Ifa’s feelings for Kuspir, Izu’s feelings for Alai, and Dadim’s potential marriage

* Izu will meet with his sister in the dining hall for dinner, as they probably do several times per week.
[Ifa] Hey.
* Ifa smiles as usual but looks a bit distracted.
[Izu] Hey yourself. How are you doing?
[Ifa] Fine. Busy day, I guess. You?
[Izu] The same. I've been in the library for the past eight hours. My eyes are starting to hurt.
[Ifa] What're you working on?
[Izu] Still researching the Hulti and the Purge and anything else related to everything that's been going on.
[Izu] Trying to wrap my head around things.
[Izu] What have you been doing?
[Ifa] Yeah, same. Maybe I should be putting in library hours, too.
[Ifa] Oh, the usual. Managing bubunne, playing matchmaker...
[Izu] Mmmm. Better you than me.
[Ifa] It's good to know life goes on, and help people with it, but I really wish all this wasn't hanging over our heads.
[Izu] Yeah...
* Ifa looks distant for a moment.
[Izu] Speaking of life going on, did I tell you that there's word two of the conduits may retire soon?
[Ifa] Wait, what?
[Izu] Nothing official yet
[Izu] Ingo seems to think it's likely, though.
[Ifa] That's pretty unusual. Did he say why?
[Izu] No, he didn't. But yeah, one of them retiring is odd. Two is unprecedented I think.
* Ifa nods.
[Izu] Izu eyes Ifa studiously.
[Izu] What's wrong?
[Ifa] Huh? What makes you think something's wrong?
[Ifa] ].]
[Izu] Ifa, I'm your twin. I know when something is wrong.
* Ifa has a bit of a deer in the headlights look.
[Izu] You don't have to tell me if you don't want, but... are you ok?
[Ifa] ...Not in here.
* Ifa nods her head towards the door.
* Izu nods.
[Izu] Come. We'll take our food back to my quarters then.
* Ifa nods and will do so.
* Ifa will take the time of the walk to steel herself to actually talk about this.
* Izu will set the food aside for the moment when they get to his cell.
* Ifa does likewise and takes a deep breath.
[Ifa] I think I might be in love with Kuspir.
* Ifa blurts out all in one burst.
[Ifa] I mean, no, obviously, that can't be the case, but I just...ugh! I don't know.
* Izu takes a moment to absorb that, but seems unphased by it.
[Izu] In love, or in lust?
[Ifa] I'm a terrible person for even considering it.
[Ifa] What!?
[Ifa] No.
[Izu] I'm just making sure.
[Izu] You are not a terrible person.
[Izu] You are my sister, and I love you.
[Ifa] I mean, yes, he's attractive. He's tall and handsome and his muscles are very nice to look at...
[Ifa] But no!
[Izu] Mm.
[Ifa] He's...he's a good man.
[Izu] Yes, he is.
[Izu] How does he feel?
[Ifa] I don't know. Or...maybe I do? A little?
* Izu raises an eyebrow at that.
[Izu] How?
[Ifa] I think he tried to say something the day that Azolte...did whatever it was she was doing.
[Ifa] When I was taking care of Kuspir, he said he wanted me to stay, but he knew it was wrong, and I just kind of played it off like I didn't know what he was talking about.
[Izu] Ah.
[Izu] This is... complicating.
[Izu] If it were only the two of you, I would say to be happy, but...
[Ifa] Yeah
[Izu] Does Geme know?
[Ifa] I don't think so? I know I haven't told her. The last thing I want to do is hurt her.
* Izu nods.
[Izu] Zurusha is... not always the most stable. I don't know how it would effect her.
* Ifa nods.
[Izu] I'm sorry. I am not very versed in these sort of matters.
[Izu] This is ussually your forte.
* Ifa smirks.
[Ifa] *This* is not a matter I'm versed in, either.
[Izu] Fair.
[Izu] What do you plan to do?
[Ifa] I have absolutely no idea.
[Ifa] But it's getting harder and harder to *not* do something.
* Izu nods.
[Ifa] Or say something, or whatever.
[Izu] Not exactly the sort of thinng we can ask mother or father advice about, either.
[Izu] I am sorry that you are under this burden. But our desires do not make us terrible people. Only our actions can do that.
[Izu] It is when our desires control our actions that the trouble begins.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] So...you think taking action about this would make me a terrible person?
[Izu] I didn't say that.
* Ifa tries to make that a joke, but sincerity creeps in regardless.
[Izu] I think it is... very complicated.
* Ifa chuckles, tinged with bitterness.
[Ifa] You're telling me.
[Ifa] (Are we like sitting, standing, que?)
[Izu] The unfolding does not think in terms of right and wrong. We do what we can with what we have, where we are. That's all any of us can do.
[Izu] (I assumed sitting on the bed, but however)
[Ifa] That makes it sound like there is no morality, but what we have is what we owe each other.
* Ifa leans against her twin.
[Izu] What else is morality but what we owe each other?
* Izu leans his head on her as well.
[Ifa] That's what I'm saying.
[Ifa] I don't want to hurt Zurusha.
[Ifa] Or Kuspir, or the kids, or mom and dad, or...anybody.
[Izu] Sometimes there is no path that does not hurt someone.
[Izu] I'm not helping, am I?
[Izu] I'm sorry.
[Ifa] No, don't apologize.
[Ifa] It's helping just to tell someone.
* Izu nods.
[Ifa] So I'm not just in my head telling myself how awful I'm being.
[Izu] I don't think you are being awful.
[Izu] I think perhaps you and he should talk some more.
[Ifa] Yeah.
[Ifa] Yeah.
* Ifa sighs deeply.
[Ifa] You're probably right.
[Ifa] I hate when that happens.
[Izu] Me too.
* Ifa bumps Izu with her shoulder.
* Izu smiles.
[Izu] You know that you can tell me anything.
[Ifa] I know.
[Ifa] I...had to get to where I could really tell myself, you know?
[Ifa] Not to change the subject, but...have you talked to Alai?
* Vess (vesspool-174-113-181-62.cpe.net.cable.rogers.com) has joined #nemnosti2
[Izu] Ah... not recently.
* Vess is now known as Alai
[Ifa] Probably worth a conversation, at least.
[Izu] Mm. You're probably right.
[Izu] I hate when you're right.
* Izu sighs.
[Izu] I hate all this relationship stuff. Other people are tiring and complicated.
[Izu] Books and stone don't confuse me.
[Ifa] I was about to say they also won't be there for you, but that's not strictly true.
[Ifa] But they can't give you what people give you.
[Izu] No, not always.
[Izu] Otherwise I would never leave my cell.
* Izu gets a bit of a far away look.
[Ifa] What is it?
[Izu] Nothing... just thinking of Alai.
[Izu] I suppose I'd be quite a hypocrite if I told you to stay away from Kuspir because he is taken.
* Ifa laughs.
[Ifa] Are you wanting to fight for Alai?
[Izu] I'm no fighter.
[Izu] But I should talk to her. See how this will change things.
[Ifa] I love you, and I want you to be happy, but...I could leave the Corps and still be me. I'm...not sure you could.
[Izu] No.
[Izu] I don't think I could.
[Ifa] So there's only so much of a place you could give Alai.
[Ifa] And she deserves one, here.
[Izu] ...she does.
[Izu] She deserves better.
[Ifa] Well, I worry what you mean by that.
[Izu] Better than what I could offer.
[Ifa] I love Dadim, too, but he's not better than you. ;)
[Izu] No, but he can offer her more.
* Ifa makes a sad, sympathetic face.
[Ifa] He can.
[Ifa] I'm sorry.
* Izu nods.
[Ifa] I...it's selfish, but I hope you're not mad at me.
[Izu] Mad at you? Why?
[Ifa] I didn't suggest their match or anything, but I didn't oppose it.
* Izu seems genuinely surprised at that.
[Izu] It's the smart choice.
[Ifa] That doesn't mean it doesn't hurt.
[Izu] I'll be ok.
[Izu] Will you?
[Ifa] I will be. It might be rough for a bit, but I've got you, right?
[Ifa] I'll get through.
[Izu] Always
* Izu puts an arm around his sister.

Alai and Izu talk about her potential marriage to Dadim

* Alai tracks down Izu carving stones on the grounds
* Izu is sitting crosslegged on a stone bench outside the temple, working on carving the text of a grave marker with various decorative symbols and images.
* Alai pads quietly up to Izu as he works
* Izu is engrossed in his work and doesn't notice her approach.
[Alai] How do you choose? Which symbols?
* Izu startles a bit and nearly drops the sharp chisel.
[Izu] Oh!
[Izu] Um... Some of it is structured. Some of it is... art, I suppose. I try to make things work harmoniously and blend together. To show the... unfolding at work.
* Alai sits down next to Izu on the bench, legs curled underneath her
[Izu] Sorry, I didn't hear you approach.
* Izu moves the stone out of the way, letting it rest on the ground for now.
[Alai] It could tell. Something on your mind?
[Alai] (i)
[Izu] I just get very... focused... when I carve. Everything else sort of disappears.
[Izu] How are you doing?
* Alai slips one of her bracelets off
[Alai] I understand the focus when one pours your passion into something. I am similar when I make these.
[Izu] They are beautiful.
[Izu] ...like you.
* Izu blushes deep red.
[Alai] So bold you are.
* Alai smiles
* Izu laughs.
[Izu] I've been called many things...
[Izu] I'm not sure that's one of them.
[Alai] The directness is good on you, see the smile it caused. This... is unnecessary.
[Alai] I am feeling a little lonely, since you ask.
[Izu] Ah.
* Izu blushes even deeper.
[Izu] I'm honored that you chose to seek my... company.
[Alai] we do have things we should discuss, as well.
* Izu sighs.
[Izu] Yes. We do.
[Izu] Perhaps somewhere more private?
[Alai] If you keep making suggestions like that, we wont get much talking done, but I suppose something better than a bench in a quarry is appropriate.
[Izu] I just meant...
[Izu] Um... yeah.
[Alai] (how private?)
[Izu] (We can go find a little nook somewhere out of the way. Someplace we can't bang so we're not too distracted ;) )
[Alai] (thats fine)
[Alai] So you've heard. Ifa I assume?
[Izu] Yes.
[Izu] Have you accepted the arrangment?
[Alai] I haven't decided yet.
* Izu nods.
[Alai] I met him.
[Izu] How did that go?
[Alai] we discussed things. Found out what each of us wanted. Came up with a framework on how it could happen. I told him I might visit him to discuss further.
[Izu] Do you think you could be happy with him?
[Alai] I channel power to bend Coherence to my will, he wants to run a tavern.
[Alai] It's a contract to please my Father and bring a more renoun name to the lineage.
[Izu] Marriages have been built on less.
[Alai] but that is not what you asked.
[Izu] No.
[Izu] You deserve to be happy.
[Alai] yesterday I was stealing myself to see this through. Today... less so.
[Izu] I... I don't want to discourage you if it's what you want. That isn't my intention.
[Izu] The Ancestors know I cannot offer you anything similar.
[Izu] Not that I think... that is what you would want...
[Izu] Or..
[Alai] Since you are being so direct, tell me what you want. I want to hear it. You should know by now I will alway make my own mind up.
[Izu] Sorry, I'm making a mess of this.
[Izu] What I want?
[Izu] This isn't about what I want.
[Izu] Nor should it be.
[Alai] Eels are less slippery than you. I asked you the question because I want to know. But in the end, any decision is mine, regardless of what you say. There is no guilt in honesty. Not in this. Or do I have to wrestle it out if you?
* Izu laughs.
[Izu] I want you. Whatever I can get of you.
[Alai] Good answer.
[Alai] You not keen on me marrying?
* Izu hesitates for a moment.
[Izu] I'm not keen on losing you. If that is what marriage means, then... I suppose not.
[Alai] I think I need something more from any marriage than what I might get with Dadim
* Alai will snuggle into Izu's arms
[Izu] I expected you would. Does he know this?
* Izu will wrap his arms around her.
[Alai] I gave the impression I was going to try... like I said, yesterday I was trying to make it work. Not so today.
* Izu nods.
[Alai] Today my Grandmother came to say goodbye and give me some sage final advice.
[Izu] I know that I could never have all of you. I would never ask you that. But... I would like to be a part of your life. If possible.
[Izu] What did she say?
[Alai] To find my anchor.
* Izu nods.

Kuspir talks to Ghorgimbe about Rondal Rumnoska inquiring after Azolte, and what they will do

[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, you are in the West Gate lounge, letting your feet rest, if not fail, and still on light duty while you recover, although you are really better now.
[NemnostiGM] Ghorgimbe comes into the room and closes the door behind her.
* Fultukhari is now known as Ghorgimbe
* Ghorgimbe is on duty, so is in her full armor and gear.
* Kuspir will get up and salute
[Ghorgimbe] At ease. Sit, actually.
* Ghorgimbe sits down.
[Ghorgimbe] We have a situation.
* Kuspir will do as he's told
[Kuspir] What's the matter?
[Ghorgimbe] Just got out of a meeting with Nemnu. I guess She has been contacted by Rondal Rumnoska, asking about Azolte.
[Kuspir] Ah..
[Kuspir] Does She have an idea of what we ought to tell him?
[Ghorgimbe] When she was injured, of course we reached out to her people in Hertu, let them know about her leg, all that stuff.
[Ghorgimbe] But now we have to get from the part where she was recovering well to the part where we cut her in half.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] I think they - Rondal anyway - might know more than they let on, so it will be a difficult conversation
* Ghorgimbe nods.
[Ghorgimbe] And as I understand it, you know more than me, and a lot of other people.
[Kuspir] I guess so, yes.
[Kuspir] Not that it gives much clarity.
[Kuspir] I think we should be as truthful with him as we can.
* Ghorgimbe nods.
[Kuspir] Maybe it will induce him to be more forthright with us as well.
[Ghorgimbe] She agrees, but also is anxious, understandably.
* Kuspir nods
[Ghorgimbe] There's only so much we can lie about how she died.
[Kuspir] It would be difficult to conceal, yes.
[Ghorgimbe] And inevitably, he will want to talk to her. We can hardly deny him access to an ancestor of his lineage.
[Kuspir] That's fair, of course.
[Kuspir] She doesn't seem to remember anything of the later days of her life as far as I could tell.
[Ghorgimbe] Nemnu has offered to have her remain in a place of honor in the Inner Caves. Which, I don't know how to take that, but I understand it is because we think she may have some answers that we may want out of her.
[Kuspir] I suppose that is up to Rondal. We probably would have a hard time convincing him that's an honor...
[Kuspir] but we can offer it. They may not have a better place to bring her right now.
[Ghorgimbe] Exactly. They're far from home and there's no other suitable temple. Well, in Naftusa, but that's really no better.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] Do you want me to take the lead on talking to him?
[Ghorgimbe] She mentioned that if they do want to talk to her, that you should be there, because you've interacted with the man before, and that Voice Izu should handle the ancestral communication.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] That seems reasonable.
[Ghorgimbe] I assume that has something to do with the whole situation you're dealing with.
[Ghorgimbe] Izu, is he a good liar? In case they ask Azolte something that he can't convey truthfully?
[Kuspir] Uh.. No. I wouldn't say that.
* Ghorgimbe frowns.
[Ghorgimbe] Well, all right. I'll let you handle that as it arises.
[Ghorgimbe] Do you want to be the one to tell him directly? Like, go to Hertu, face to face?
[Kuspir] I
[Kuspir] I can do that.
[Ghorgimbe] Will you go alone?
[Kuspir] I think that would be unwise, but I'm not sure who best to go with.
[Kuspir] I suppose Ifa...
[Ghorgimbe] Whatever decision you make will be fine with me.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] Thank you.
[Ghorgimbe] All right, I'll get back to it, then.
* Ghorgimbe stands up and goes back to work.

Kuspir talks to Ifa and Izu about Azolte’s remains, and their plans for dealing with Rondal

[NemnostiGM] All right, Kuspir, what's the plan?
* Kuspir will go and talk to Izu and Ifa I guess
[NemnostiGM] All right, you can find them easily.
[Izu] Hello Kuspir. How are you recovering?
[Kuspir] I'm doing much better, thanks.
[Kuspir] We have a situation to deal with. Azolte's relations want to know what happened to her.
[Izu] Ah. What do you plan to tell them?
[Kuspir] I will tell as much of the truth as I think I can. That we found her turned to stone, brought her back here, helped her regain her flesh, and that she seemed to be recovering, but then went mad and attacked us. That we were forced to kill her in self-defense and that her remains were so dangerous that I elected to lay her to rest.
[Izu] You think they will believe that?
[Kuspir] The Lady wants us to keep her remains here, which we can offer him, but I don't think we can compel him if he wants to take her.
* Kuspir shrugs
[Kuspir] THey can talk to her if they wish... Which is where you will come in.
[Izu] Me?
[Kuspir] Yes. In case what she reveals might be dangerous or secret, you'll need to be able to be judicious about what is revealed to them.
[Izu] Voice Ingo ordered that only he be allowed to act as her speaker.
[Izu] (Scratch that last line)
[Izu] Ahhhh... I'll try. I'm not a very good liar.
[Kuspir] Just use your best judgment. If you have to, you can say she did not answer. That's a thing that could be possible, yes? That she has no memory of whatever it was.
[Izu] What specifically should I not mention?
[Kuspir] Things about the Unkind Stone, I suppose. If there is some other information that seems harmful to the Lady, as well.
[Izu] me nods.
[Izu] Very well, then.
* Ifa looks troubled, but nods.
[Izu] Though, for the record, I believe I am a poor choice for this role.
[Kuspir] I think you'll do fine, or what it's worth, but revealing such information to other people could be an even worse choice.
[Ifa] If you say she remains silent or doesn't remember, there's little they can do to gainsay it.
[Kuspir] (do we go see Rondal, or is he coming here?)
[NemnostiGM] (well at the moment they don't know she's dead, so asking him to come here is a little awkward. You might need to go down the road to Hertu, not that it's far)
[Kuspir] (ok we can do that)
[NemnostiGM] (all right, the three of you then?)
[Kuspir] (assuming the others agree to come, yes)
[Izu] (yup)

Izu, Ifa, and Kuspir travel to Hertu and speak to Rondal Rumnoska about the circumstances around Azolte’s death

[NemnostiGM] All right, the three of you gather some basic travelling gear and make the short trip to Hertu along the river road.
[NemnostiGM] You reach the Rumnoska caravan promptly, and Rondal comes out to greet you.
[Kuspir] Greetings, Rondal of the Rumnoska.
[Rondal] Kuspir, Voice Ifa ... welcome back. And you are?
* Rondal turns to Izu
[Ifa] My brother, Voice Izu.
[Kuspir] Can we speak with you privately?
* Izu nods to Rondal
[Rondal] Of course.
* Rondal leads you into his ... hengi's caravan, you suppose you would call it.
* Ifa will follow him in.
[Kuspir] Thank you.
[Ifa] We thank you for your welcome. I wish we had better tidings.
* Kuspir nods
* Ifa tries to look (and is, though not uncomplicatedly) sympathetic.
* Rondal frowns.
[Rondal] Well?
[Kuspir] I'm sorry to be the one to tell you that Azolte is dead.
[Ifa] We thought she was recovering well, but there was an...incident.
[Rondal] What do you mean?
[Kuspir] She seemed to be struck with a strange madness. She attacked me and another of our people when we tried to stop her from damaging our well. We were forced to defend ourselves with lethal force. I am truly sorry that this happened.
[Ifa] It came, truly, out of nowhere.
[Rondal] Is revivification possible?
[NemnostiGM] (anyone who wants to can make a SM)
[Kuspir] We tried to restrain her without harming her but she seemed to have acid coming from her hands.
[Rondal] Acid? Hands?
[Izu] !roll 1d20+16
* Lan-werk rolls for Izu: [ 1d20+16 ] getting [ 18 ] which, after the modifier [ 16 ] totals [ 34 ].
[Rondal] She was never particularly a fos user
[Ifa] !roll 1d20+10
* Lan-werk rolls for Ifa: [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 23 ].
[Kuspir] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Kuspir: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 33 ].
[NemnostiGM] Ifa and Izu, you think that Rondal is not especially surprised that she is dead. He seems sad but not shocked.
[Ifa] (Izu and Kuspir, you mean?)
[NemnostiGM] (oh yeah sorry, that was what I meant)
[Ifa] (kk)
[Ifa] Her body is, of course, being treated with the utmost respect.
[Kuspir] I doubt she would have been able to get hold of fos very easily in any event, but I suppose it's not completely impossible.
* Naka is now known as Porfo
[Kuspir] Unfortunately, because of the strange circumstances around her death, I elected to lay her to rest. She cannot be revived.
[Izu] I'm sure this comes as a shock. I am very sorry for your loss.
[Kuspir] The Lady offered her a resting place of honour, and our sympathies.
[Rondal] A place of honour, in Nemnosti, you mean?
[Kuspir] Yes
* Rondal frowns.
[Rondal] Well. That is a very great honour, for which I am deeply grateful.
* Rondal pauses.
[Rondal] We can discuss that at greater length another time.
[Kuspir] Certainly
[Rondal] You say she was struck by a strange madness. Describe it to me.
[Kuspir] We found her early in the morning, digging into the stone of our well. As I mentioned, her hands seemed to be acidic, so she risked doing considerable damage to the structure. She spoke some strange words and did not seem to respond to us - I'm not certain if she fully knew who we were.
[Rondal] Strange words?
[Kuspir] I tried to bodily remove her from the area and she struck me, quite badly.
[Rondal] You seem fine now.
[Kuspir] I had good treatment.
* Kuspir can show him the remaining scars.
[Rondal] Acid.
* Rondal shakes his head, perhaps in disbelief.
[Kuspir] It was madness... I don't remember much of it. She said things like that she was inside the walls. And a name - Ishikande. I don't know if there was anything else, at least not while I was there.
* Rondal looks confused, but Izu and Kuspir, you think he's putting it on.
[Rondal] Strange. I don't know that word.
[Kuspir] It was strange, indeed.
[Kuspir] If you do know more of what happened, we would welcome an opportunity to learn about it. It was quite troubling.
[Izu] Did she ever have a history of any sorts of... fits of madness like this?
[Rondal] None.
* Izu nods.
[Rondal] Were there any initial signs, any warning of this state of madness?
[Ifa] Not that I recall.
* Ifa looks to the other two.
[Kuspir] We didn't observe any, if there were.
* Izu shakes his head.
[Kuspir] As we said, she seemed to be recovering well.
* Rondal nods.
[Rondal] Well.
[Rondal] Today is a sad day for the Rumnoska.
[Rondal] Is there a plan to hold a funeral?
[Ifa] (Is there?)
[NemnostiGM] (none that you are aware of but people do hold funerals where kin come, etc.)
[Kuspir] If you and your people wish to have one, it would be possible.
[Ifa] We had planned to coordinate with you on that.
[Rondal] I will let the ifti know. And yes, that is a gracious offer.
[Rondal] I will wish to speak to her, also.
[Izu] Of course.
[Kuspir] Certainly, it can be arranged.
[Izu] I will arrange it if you let me know when you would like t come to Nemnosti.
[Rondal] Thank you, Voice Izu.
[Rondal] If there is nothing else, then. I should go and tell my people this news.
[Ifa] We're very sorry for your loss. If there's anything we can do, please do not hesitate to ask.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] We will leave you to your grief.
* Kuspir will depart unless there's anything else
[NemnostiGM] All right, you leave.
[Kuspir] I think he knew more than he was letting on.. as usual.
* Kuspir says once we're out of the area
[Izu] I concur. He knew she was dead. Or at least, he was not surprised.
* Ifa frowns.
[Ifa] I can see that if he sent her into danger, but I think we all assumed she was mostly past that.
[Kuspir] Thank you for your help in talking with him, you always know best what to say.
[Izu] You're welcome.
* Ifa smiles.
* Kuspir meant Ifa but isn't rude enough to point that out ;)
* Izu grins a bit.
[Ifa] I wonder what he'll ask, given he has to go through a Voice, and clearly isn't forthcoming with information about what they're doing here.
[Izu] Should we speak with her again beforehand to be ready?
[Kuspir] It might not be a bad idea
[Kuspir] I think it would be worth asking more questions about her relationship with Rondal
[Kuspir] and her family more generally, perhaps
[Izu] Indeed.
[Ifa] She might be more forthcoming now.
* Kuspir nods
[NemnostiGM] Until next we gather by the firelight, young acolytes!

Solos

Kuspir gets a visit from Rembes Sortusai, who seeks permission to court Irdomila

[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, you are now feeling mostly mended from your ill-timed encounter with Azolte's acid hands. There will surely be some scarring but not too bad.
[NemnostiGM] In order to keep yourself distracted from ...well, any thoughts that would be too intrusive ... you are back into your regular routine around the ulajeta.
[NemnostiGM] There is, of course, some tension after Azolte's death, which of course couldn't be kept secret in any meaningful way.
[NemnostiGM] You are on guard around the Lanky Stones, where, although it is now more or less ensured that there will be no unwanted intrusions, Ghorgimbe feels, probably rightly, that it is reassuring to see a burly stoneguard on watch. Normally one of the more junior folks, or even one of the sentinels do it, but this afternoon is your turn.
[NemnostiGM] You see a figure walking towards you from the front entrance to the Carver's Hall.
[NemnostiGM] After a moment, you recognize that it is Rembes, the son of your friend Pomirabe Sortusai.
* Kuspir will nod in acknowledgement to him
* Rembes is dressed in high Khutuan finery, including silk nazam pants, a vest with complex tisli fringes, and bedecked with numerous vumuri beads. That's pretty unusual for an acolyte around here.
[Rembes] Good afternoon, sir.
[Kuspir] Hello, Rembes.
[NemnostiGM] You're struck that it's unusual for a noble, even a kid noble, to call you, a commoner, 'sir'.
[Rembes] It is my hope that I might speak to you, if you would grant me the honour of your time.
[Kuspir] Certainly. What is it?
* Rembes pauses, as if composing his thoughts.
* Rembes extends a hand forth, as an orator would, as if to declaim something.
[Rembes] It is my wish to seek your gracious leave to court your fine daughter Irdomila.
* Kuspir blinks in surprise
[Rembes] Although I know that I am a mere nobleman, not worthy of her sainted lineage, it is my hope that she will see fit to agree.
* Rembes is using courtly Imperial Omban of a style you've only heard or seen in books, when you were an acolyte yourself.
[Kuspir] Well... I would think that is up to Irdomila.
[Rembes] Of course, sir! I would not think otherwise.
[Kuspir] Did your father put you up to this or something?
[Rembes] But I keenly am aware that she is your eldest child, and a Nemni beyond that, worthy of more than I might ever provide.
[Rembes] He did not, sir. He does not know that I am here, nor is he cognizant of my aim.
[Kuspir] Did you accidentally swallow a dictionary?
[Rembes] Sir?
[Kuspir] You're just talking like you stepped out of some old Omban play or something. You can relax, I'm not going to bite.
* Rembes might have relaxed slightly.
[Rembes] Ahh ... beyond that, sir, I know that as Irdomila's mother cannot be consulted directly, I wonder whether you might convey to Her my intention so that I might have Her blessing also.
[Kuspir] Well, I will certainly let her know about this conversation, yes.
* Rembes is using the Imperial Omban register where saintly lineages are referred in the honorific, as saints themselves are. Again, nobody does this.
[Rembes] I appreciate it. Ahh, might I ask you a question?
[Kuspir] Sure.
[Rembes] Do you feel that it is necessary, at this juncture, to consult the Osper Himself? Hojon ... terrifies me.
* Rembes seems still half-terrified of you.
[Kuspir] I don't imagine that's necessary unless things were getting more serious.
* Rembes seems very relieved at that.
[Rembes] I, ahh ... I am grateful for that.
[Rembes] Sir?
[Rembes] May I ask you another question?
[Kuspir] Yes?
[Rembes] Your service as a stoneguard. How did you find yourself on that path?
[Kuspir] Well, I wanted to stay here, and I wasn't very inclined to study magic or join the Voice, and it seemed like the best option.
* Rembes nods.
[Rembes] Is it rewarding?
[Kuspir] It is, but a lot of responsibility as well.
[Rembes] I am not afraid of responsibility, sir.
[Kuspir] You don't think you'd want to be a sentinel like your father?
[Rembes] Well, sir, to be honest with you, in my short time here, I have come to understand that in addition to wonderful people, Nemnosti's libraries are joyful places. Full of poetry, literature, wondrous things.
[Rembes] I have been attempting to write a poem along the style of the Lay of Jijona, as a ... well.
* Rembes trails off.
[Kuspir] I see. That's good - the books in the library should be used, not sit and gather dust.
[Rembes] Do you have much time for leisure, sir?
[Kuspir] Well... right now, not so much, but under more normal circumstances, yes.
[Rembes] These have indeed been troubling times. I know my father is glad to be able to be here to help Her, though. He always speaks very highly of his time here as an acolyte, and of his camaraderie with you, sir.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] Those were good days, when we were your age.
* Rembes nods.
[Kuspir] Look, lad. I... I remember being an ordinary, not very remarkable boy who liked a Nemni girl, and while it brings its own complications, she's still... like any other girl.
[Rembes] She is very different than the noble girls in Naftusa.
[Kuspir] Well, that's probably true, I suppose.
[Rembes] Her gall bladder is great. And her manner of speech is ... evocative.
[Rembes] I'm sorry, sir, I shouldn't speak of such things with you.
[Kuspir] Heh.
[Kuspir] All I mean is, if she likes you, it won't matter that she's from a saintly lineage.
[Rembes] I hope that she does, sir.
[Kuspir] You don't have to act like she's some holy relic who can't be touched. Just... be nice to her. Talk to her. I can't really advise you on the details - Zurusha used to quite enjoy helping me with my homework for instance, but you probably have no problems with writing things. But still, girls do like to feel smarter than you, so maybe it's not a terrible idea.
[Rembes] While you are right, I do not need help with my studies, she is definitely smarter than I, sir. I know she aims to become a mystic.
* Kuspir nods
[Rembes] I will remember what you have said about ...relics.
[Kuspir] Don't, uh. Don't go touching any relics without her permission though. Be respectful.
[Rembes] Yes, sir.
* Rembes says, taking a half-step back.
[Rembes] And, uh, sir?
[Kuspir] Yes?
[Rembes] If I might ask a small favour.
* Kuspir nods
[Rembes] Please if you would not mention this conversation to Irdomila, I would not want Her, uhhh, her to be upset.
[Kuspir] I won't mention it.
[Rembes] Thank you, sir.
* Rembes seems like he is about to offer your hand, then reconsiders, then salutes.
* Kuspir will salute in return, out of instinct
* Rembes turns and departs.

Ifa meets with Hand Keruna at Birgoje, the great temple in Naftusa, and they talk about Momuzai’s marriage

[NemnostiGM] Ifa, for the last while, you've been so busy with your various duties to the team and your investigations that some of your ordinary duties have fallen by the wayside.
[NemnostiGM] Every month, it is customary for each Hand at Nemnosti to spend at least one day serving at the great temple of Birgoje, in the town of Naftusa downriver.
[NemnostiGM] It certainly has been a long time since you talked to Hand Keruna, the high priestess there.
[NemnostiGM] It's less than a half-day travel there; you normally might go, do your work, and then stay overnight, coming back the following day.
[NemnostiGM] It's funny; those who spend their whole lives at Nemnosti or in the Ghengom think of Naftusa as 'the big city', but in truth, it's at most a mid-sized town of perhaps 2500 people.
[NemnostiGM] For you, who trained in a real city, Onighus, it's lively but still fairly rustic, and in many ways, more quaint and provincial than Nemnosti itself.
[NemnostiGM] Birgoje, though, is a great temple, an Imperial construction dating back to the early days of the Empire. It stands right along the cliffside on a promontory facing out over the Pasu valley.
[NemnostiGM] Its great marble columns are built partly from local stone and partly from material that was ferried upriver many years ago.
[NemnostiGM] Naftusa also marks the highest point upriver where larger boats can navigate the Pasu - beyond that, up towards Hertu and Nemnosti, the river sustains agriculture but is too wild to be traversed by boat.
[NemnostiGM] Today the temple is lively and active; the many Hands who are resident there are taking the two hundred or so bubunne through military drills out in the courtyard, much to the joy and amusement of the local children.
* Ifa would be glad to be able to help provide said amusement.
[NemnostiGM] Afterwards, Hand Keruna comes up to you.
* Rembes is now known as Keruna
[Ifa] (Is there an honorific for her as the high priestess here?)
* Keruna is a woman of her middle years, perhaps a little younger than your mother. While her garb is that of the Hand, of course, her demeanor makes it impossible to forget that she is a noblewoman of the esteemed Kaisastelovis lineage; her father Rembes being the hengi of that clan.
[NemnostiGM] (there probably is ... don't ask me what it is though)
[Ifa] (Heh, fair)
* Ifa smiles at Keruna and makes a standard sign of respect.
[Keruna] Ifa, it is good to have you back here.
[Keruna] I don't suppose your duties would ever permit a longer stay?
[Ifa] [Honorific], it's good to be back, and to see you.
[Ifa] I suppose it would depend upon what 'longer' means.
[Ifa] I do enjoy spending time here.
[Keruna] Well, you shouldn't let me convince you. You are needed upriver.
[Ifa] I try to make myself useful.
[Keruna] I understand you have been most useful to your cousin Momuzai and your uncle Hojon.
[Ifa] Again, I try to be. Hojon...is not always receptive to advice.
* Keruna laughs.
* Ifa chuckles as well.
[Keruna] A headstrong hengi possessed of a too-strong sense of what is possible? He should have a chat with my father.
[Ifa] Having similar issues?
[Keruna] Always. There are so many noble lineages and only so many marriageable people. It is tiring, sometimes, negotiating bridewealth and assessing family histories.
[Keruna] The child is his, is it not?
* Ifa sighs.
[Ifa] Were I speaking to anyone else, I would obfuscate, but, as it's you...
* Ifa shrugs and nods.
* Keruna nods.
[Keruna] You know that Tairasta of the Derteri lives here now. She is a very devout woman, which means that she spends many hours here, reflecting ... praying ... complaining ...
[Ifa] Yes, I'm supposed to speak with her when I get a chance.
[Ifa] I doubt it will go particularly pleasantly.
[Keruna] I'm sure she will be around today. What is it you are to speak to her about? And on whose behest?
[Ifa] Afra Sortusai.
[Ifa] She wants me to...I'm not sure. Just speak to Tairasta on her behalf.
[Keruna] I see. Well, as you might imagine, Afra is not Tairasta's favourite person.
[Ifa] I shouldn't think so.
[Ifa] And, fond as I am of Afra, I couldn't particularly blame Tairasta.
[Keruna] Once Momuzai and Afra are wed, he will be the father of the child? Claimed to be, of course.
* Ifa nods.
* Keruna shakes her head.
[Ifa] Not that I think there are many people at all knowledgable about the issue that would believe it.
[Keruna] The poor child.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] I don't think it's ideal, but my guidance wasn't heeded, so...here I am.
[Ifa] Any advice of your own?
[Keruna] You must be circumspect. Tairasta hates Hojon and yet loves him in a strange way.
[Keruna] You must be sympathetic to her, without seeming that you are besmirching your own hengi to his estranged wife.
[Ifa] That would be easier if it wasn't so easy to besmirch him.
[Ifa] Sorry, that was probably a bit too candid.
[Keruna] You are not within earshot of anyone who would hear. I understand.
[Keruna] We must always be candid with the other sisters of our order, or else we will fail when we are needed.
[Ifa] I know Afra cares for him, and he for her in his way, but...I fear he's put her and Momuzai in a terrible position.
[Keruna] And here, we are surely needed. Our job is always to ensure that the power of the nobility is checked.
* Keruna nods.
* Ifa looks thoughtful at that.
[Ifa] Is something amiss?
[Keruna] With the nobility? No more than usual.
[Keruna] I simply mean that we are always playing the role of ensuring the continuity of the noble lineages - and the common, too - against forces that would lead them into too much conflict.
[Keruna] Sometimes what is needed is to tolerate some small unfortunate circumstance, to avoid a greater wickedness.
[Keruna] You say that the girl, Afra, she is in favour of the union?
[Ifa] That's what I tell myself in this instance.
[Ifa] She...hmm.
[Ifa] She says it is for the best.
[Ifa] I'm not sure that's entirely the same.
* Keruna exhales slowly.
[Ifa] I have to admit, there are people, Hojon not least amongst them, who seem to think my judgement is clouded on this issue.
* Keruna shakes her head.
[Ifa] And it's entirely possible, but I at least *think* I'm trying to do the best for everyone involved.
[Keruna] It isn't, not truly. You have a conflict because the girl is your friend and the men are your kin. But that is small, in comparison to some conflicts.
[Ifa] (mumbled) Besides, other things are clouding my judgement at the moment.
[Keruna] How so, sister?
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] Oh, uh, sorry, that's not really...pertinent.
* Ifa blushes.
[Keruna] All right, you don't need to disclose.
[Keruna] You need to understand about the Sortusai, though.
* Ifa nods.
[Keruna] There is something in that lineage, something accursed. It strikes, now and again.
[Ifa] (Have I ever heard anything about this?)
[Keruna] (well the main thing that you know that there was the business when Faruzh Sortusai died and was rendered bubun at Nemnosti, where he still lies. Pomirabe reminded you of that when you were negotiating the marriage. It was scandalous because it would be unusual for a nobleman to be rendered ordinarily.)
[Ifa] What sort of accursed something?
[Keruna] (and I think Afra also said something to you when you spoke. Nothing like 'accursed', though)
[Keruna] A ... defect, one might call it. That touches a few in every generation, leaving the others untouched, but not unscathed, when they come into contact with their kin.
[Keruna] A moral ill.
[Keruna] Of a sexual kind.
[Ifa] Ah.
[Keruna] My own family is intertwined with the Sortusai in various places.
[Keruna] It is not a thing we speak of.
[Ifa] I would imagine not.
[Keruna] And Hojon - he is perhaps foolish, but my sense of him is that he is not wicked.
[Ifa] No more so than some, and less than others.
* Ifa says with another sigh.
[Keruna] Then let the girl be happy with the father and the son ... and with her new child.
[Keruna] And know that if she sees Nemnosti as a refuge, she is not the first nor will she be the last to do so.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] I truly hope she will be.
[Ifa] Which leaves me to smoothe things over with her future mother-in-law.
* Keruna nods.
[Keruna] Go and talk to her. She is not unreasonable, given the circumstances.
[Ifa] I will. And thank you, for the advice, and everything. I hope we can speak more before I have to return.
[Ifa] Perhaps of more pleasant frivolities.
* Ifa will take her leave and seek out Tairasta (assuming Keruna was done).

Ifa finds Tairasta Derteri on the grounds of Birgoje, and they come to a mutual understanding about their positions regarding the wedding

[NemnostiGM] You can actually find Tairasta around the temple gardens, looking out over the cliffs down towards the river, and beyond there, to the great stone columns of Degh Ekorre.
[Ifa] (Is there anyone else around?)
[NemnostiGM] (not really nearby; it's a public place but it's quiet here)
[Ifa] (Does she know Ifa? Certainly they've met some, at least)
[NemnostiGM] (sure, she spent many years at Nemnosti and you know her various Nemni kids, like Ajemika and Momuzai and Mususi)
[Ifa] (cool cool)
[Ifa] Tairasta? I hope I'm not disturbing you.
* Ifa will approach quietly.
[Tairasta] Hmm? Ah. Hand Ifa.
[Ifa] Enjoying the view?
* Tairasta is clearly trying to stay neutral.
[Tairasta] Yes, it's lovely. A little warm still, this time of year, but still, there are always good breezes here along the cliffs.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] I'm sorry to interrupt your reverie, but I was hoping I could ask for a bit of your time.
[Tairasta] That would be fine.
[Ifa] I was curious if you were planning to come to Nemnosti for your son's upcoming wedding.
[Tairasta] Old Sinews isn't afraid I'll cause a commotion? Did he send you?
* Ifa gives a slight smile at that.
[Ifa] In truth, he may very well be, but, no, he didn't. But I do think you have every right to be there, and I was asked to speak with you.
[Tairasta] By whom?
[Ifa] Your son's intended.
[Tairasta] So she can mock me with her happiness?
* Ifa frowns.
[Ifa] I can understand why you would think little of her, but that is far from her intention.
[Tairasta] Do you understand why this situation upsets me so, Hand Ifa? Truly?
[Ifa] Likely not, if you put it like that, but I would be more than willing to learn.
[Tairasta] Hojon and I always had ... a suitable arrangement. I, a commoner, marrying the son of a powerful hengi, in line to become hengi himself, which of course he did in time.
[Tairasta] My family's economic ties to Nemnosti are longstanding, and of course continue. Every ounce of fos you've consumed likely comes from a Derteri caravan.
[Tairasta] And I was beautiful then, which I suppose was what convinced Hojon.
[Tairasta] But we were never in love in the way that some are.
[Tairasta] And that was fine.
[Tairasta] It still is fine.
[Tairasta] I don't care that he is fucking her. I don't even really care that he would replace me with her.
[Tairasta] I care that my own dear son is marrying her, and that I will be recognized as the grandmother of "their" child.
[Tairasta] And since Ajemika has only a daughter, if the child is male, perhaps, the next hengi?
[Tairasta] Although I do doubt whether Hojon will live so long.
[Tairasta] It is not that I merely must bear the insult of my husband seeking comfort elsewhere, but that I am now expected to act as if this bastard is part of my legacy. And that Momuzai, dear, stupid, kind Momuzai, will not have the opportunity to seek a marriage more suited for him.
[Tairasta] Surely you see that?
* Tairasta is definitely agitated now.
* Ifa gives her as sympathetic a face as is humanly possible, because she essentially entirely agrees with her.
[Ifa] I'm not sure I can adequately convey to you how much I see that.
[Ifa] While I did not argue from your particularly position, I made much the same argument to your husband.
[Ifa] But I have been overruled by him, and Afra, and even Momuzai.
[Tairasta] And so Afra of the Sortusai, she wishes me to come to the wedding to give, if not my blessing, at least my acceptance of this farce, is that what brings you here?
[Ifa] My friendship with her is what brings me here, and my respect for you and your family.
[Ifa] If I cannot convince them not to go through with this, I am merely trying to make the best outcome possible with that decision.
[Ifa] For you as well, if there's any way I can help.
[Ifa] I know it is an impossible decision.
[Ifa] (situation*)
[Tairasta] Well, given that infanticide is against the values of your Order, there is no immediate help you can provide.
* Tairasta remarks archly.
[Ifa] (Sense motive to see if she's serious?)
[NemnostiGM] (you don't need SM; she's definitely being ironic)
[Ifa] (Okay, cool)
* Ifa smirks.
[Tairasta] It is so strange, all my life I thought that what I wanted was noble grandchildren.
[Ifa] I would hope it's against all good people's values, though geronticide has perhaps crossed my mind. ;)
* Tairasta laughs.
[Tairasta] No, no, although perhaps if you could conspire to see him removed from his position, perhaps forced to resign in disgrace, I would be satisfied.
* Ifa chuckles.
[Ifa] I believe I suggested that Ajemika could succeed him sooner rather than later, but I don't think he took it to heart.
[Tairasta] When Ajemika married Regivus Losturi, I was so disappointed. The Losturi are eherdos to the Nemni, which is prestigious enough, but they are commoners, and I thought she could do better.
[Tairasta] I see now that she was thinking of a partnership over which she had control.
[Tairasta] Very smart, that one.
[Tairasta] You could have a noble husband of your choosing, and Nemni sons to become hengi someday.
* Ifa shrugs.
[Ifa] I wouldn't necessarily rule out a marriage, but neither it nor my child as hengi are particular ambitions of mine.
* Tairasta nods.
[Tairasta] You would be an excellent kingmaker, when the time is right.
[Tairasta] (the term she uses is more like 'hengi-picker')
[Ifa] (*nod*)
[Ifa] You're very kind.
[Ifa] Can I ask a wildly impertinent question?
[Ifa] Possibly several?
[Tairasta] Why stop now?
* Ifa smirks.
[Ifa] Point.
[Ifa] You have such a grasp of these webs of influence, and a clear interest, not to mention influence even at a distance. Why did you abandon Nemnosti?
[Tairasta] Because unlike you, I am not a Nemni. Once I am no longer welcome in the hengi's bed, I am hardly even entitled to a place in the iftibal. And I was not an acolyte, ever - so I do not have the relationship that some commoners have with Nemnu Ula.
[Ifa] I think we're the poorer for your absence. Hojon could use more...loyal opposition.
[Tairasta] My daughter Mususi is here, my son Sepen is travelling with my people, trading fos, making money. Ajemika takes care of herself.
* Ifa nods.
[Tairasta] It is only Momuzai, of all my children, who needs me in such a direct way.
[Ifa] And you? Are you being taken care of?
[Tairasta] I am financially very well taken care of.
[Tairasta] Spiritually, I spend my time here at Birgoje.
[Ifa] And...otherwise? Clearly Hojon has no qualms about other companionship, and you didn't need to speak of your beauty in the past tense. Surely you could find other happiness as well.
* Tairasta laughs.
[Tairasta] I am well taken care of in that way too.
* Ifa laughs.
[Tairasta] But thank you for asking. It has been too long since anyone has asked if I have been well-fucked lately.
* Ifa genuinely belly laughs at that.
[Ifa] Well, I would hate to think Hojon was having all the fun.
[Tairasta] I am very discreet, which is more than my dear husband has ever been.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] You're not wrong about that.
[Ifa] ...Do you love him?
* Tairasta pauses.
[Tairasta] In the way I love a comfortable chair that squeaks every time you sit on it.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] I am sorry for his...lack of discretion.
* Tairasta shrugs.
[Tairasta] It's not going to change. He's not good with change.
[Ifa] And, truly, I am sorry for not having spoken with you more before now. Perhaps when next I'm in Naftusa.
[Ifa] While my hands are mostly tied with this whole arrangement, if there's anything I can do for you, please be sure to ask.
[Tairasta] Tell my husband I will be there at the wedding. But do not tell him any more than that. Make him wonder if I will cause a commotion.
* Ifa grins.
[Ifa] I will do that.
[Ifa] Would you mind terribly if I allayed Afra's fears somewhat? If I swear her to secrecy?
[Tairasta] Tell her that I would never do anything to upset Momuzai on his wedding day. That is the truth.
[Ifa] Thank you. Truly.

Alai casts legend lore and learns more about the history and powers of the amulet Uvragaz gave her

[NemnostiGM] Alai, for the last couple of days you have been thinking over that last conversation with your grandmother. You wonder if you'll ever see Uvragaz again - there was a note of finality to it all, and to her last gift to you.
[NemnostiGM] The strange amulet made of fossilized ambergris has been practically staring at you from your bedside. You still have only a poor idea of what it does, but you are convinced that the energy it resonates with is Abyssal in nature, which accords with what Uvragaz told you.
[NemnostiGM] You haven't really told anyone about it yet, so it's up to you as to whether you would like to investigate it on your own, or share your research with someone else.
* Alai will sail these waters alone for now, until she has reached the limits of her skill and ability.
* Alai will have examined the ambergris is detail, commiting every crease and corner to memory, in preparations for her divinations.
[NemnostiGM] Of course, you are familiar with ambergris, having grown up in a whaling culture. But your research on ambergris that is turned to stone is scarce. How was it turned to stone, and by whom, and for what purpose? Is it ancient or new? These questions don't have easy answers. At the very least, it is much older than a century or so - so beyond living memory.
[Alai] (for this she is in her chambers, having cleared room in the middle of the floor. Candles burn providing the light, and creating the play in shadows. A ceramic bowl, filled with salt water is the focus)
[NemnostiGM] (OK sounds good)
* Alai is dressed in loose robes, bare foot. Her hair is up in an intricate weave, with pins and rings holding it in place. She places the ambergris in the bowl with the water and begins the casting of Legend Lore
[NemnostiGM] (ok go ahead and make your roll)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+13
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 26 ].
[NemnostiGM] The bowl of salt water swirls around, perhaps only in your mind though. It is as if the salt is separating from the water, and the grains are forming a scene, telling a narrative. You fall into a trance, staring at the emerging crystalline scene, as its secrets are revealed to you.
[NemnostiGM] The amulet was wielded by Aathuvansi Leu during the Blue Storm. It provided him the ability, briefly, to unfold his body into a form that can pass through walls, which he used to enter enemy ships right through their hulls, and in that form, he could even strike an opponent in material form with his blade.
[NemnostiGM] But that is not its origin. It was once borne, and first borne, by the Luetkan priestess Palaunaari, follower of Tuuharana.
* Lan-home (~Lan-homelns5-pool7-088.adsl.user.start.ca) has joined #nemnosti
[NemnostiGM] Palaunaari was physically weak, nearly incapacitated, short of breath. But as a youth she underwent a ritual that transformed her body into an incorporeal thing. Deprived of her body, she was able to move freely and breathe well, but unable to interact with the world.
[NemnostiGM] It is said that the amulet was a gift from the whale god Tuuharana to Palaunaari herself, allowing her to interact with the physical world despite her disembodiment.
[NemnostiGM] Palaunaari's Tale is one of the Sea-songs shared as part of the Telling, but little of this history is known to most priests today.
[NemnostiGM] They describe her as a ghost, but that is hardly the whole of the matter. It is no act of death that transformed her.
[NemnostiGM] Some say that the amulet was stolen from her, others that she was deprived of it for her insolence towards the gods.
[NemnostiGM] None report on whether she lives still, disembodied.
[NemnostiGM] The spell ends.
[Alai] (with this information can I deduce how one activates or draws on the spirit form?)
[NemnostiGM] You simply need to touch the stone of the amulet while calling on Tuuharana.
* Alai dries the stone off and will put it back around her neck
[Alai] (random question... is it known where Aathuvansi Leu is interred?)
[NemnostiGM] Yes, he's interred back on clan lands back on the island of Kododza, where he was born (and presumbably also you)
[NemnostiGM] He wasn't killed outright in battle; he was severely injured and then died of those injuries a few weeks later.
[Alai] (so close enough to teleport... I wonder if he would talk to a Voice)
[NemnostiGM] (he doesn't get a choice, but the people who stand in the way of you exhuming him might)
[NemnostiGM] (Luetkans who follow the traditional faith are buried underground, and so are not accessible like Omban ancestors usually are.)
[Alai] (there are ways around that)