Nemnosti session 24
Summary
Session
- Session date: May 11, 2025
- Negili Reckoning date: IE 768, Ronudend
Prologue
[NemnostiGM] Greetings, acolytes! Over your time here, you have of course learned much of our own Grey Carver, of her awakening as a saint, and her majestic centuries of guidance and rule here at the ulajeta. It is easy, then, to think of the world in terms of the ulajeta, especially for those of you born and raised here, in Naftusa province. But that would neglect the many sources of Coherence and Unfolding throughout the Omban states, and beyond. It may surprise some of you to learn that from the great cities, from Onighus, or Lunduso, or great Omba itself, we are just a backwater, a place to be revered, certainly, but not to the exclusion of others. And that even above Nemnu Herself, there is, of course, the hierarchy of saints, above which there is no greater than the Prime, the One, who serves us as our Emperor. Eventually, some of you will have more opportunity to explore that world, and I look forward to learning from you, when that day comes. But until then, we turn to the firelight, and to the stories we tell here, as autumn's evening chills begin to come upon us, here, now, in Ronudend.
Alai, Jevai, and Marga plan, prepare, and cast spells on themselves in advance of their travel to the Crease
[NemnostiGM] All right, Alai and Jevai, you have been making plans for some time. But now it is time for action. To learn more about the Crease, you have already investigated the two iron daggers, but there is only so much you can learn from the comfort of the ulajeta.
[NemnostiGM] So you can enact your plan to return to the Crease itself, at Musune's end, and to see what else there is that can be learned.
[NemnostiGM] You can go ahead and make any final preparations you need in advance of heading there, including talking to Marga about her role.
[Alai] Job is information. Need you Marga, to help keep eye out and keep us safe so we get information. If danger becomes too much, too many, we leave. Not battle to death.
[Marga] ok, what kinda danger you anticipating?
* Alai shrugs
[Alai] Is hope no danger at all
[Alai] we go in out and none wiser
[Alai] but better to be ready
[Marga] Alrighty!
* Marga shrugs.
[Alai] Hulti if they know we arrive may send someone to investigate... magic will conceal us, but we must stay relatively close... like two of me lengthwise is all space we have.
[Marga] like if we were lying down lengthwise?
[Alai] I miss anything Jevai?
[Jevai] close enough that I can touch you if we need to teleport out. I know you cna probably get out if you have to but I don't want to risk that
[Marga] Okie dokie!
[Jevai] we shoudl be invisible and we should be able to talk to each other close by
* Alai taps Marga's armor and polearm
[Alai] These already have magic?
[Marga] Uhh...
[Alai] I take is not sure?
[Marga] Yeah I dunno
* Alai casts detect magic and checks
[Alai] (are they enchanted?)
[Marga] (see the thing is that I also don't know)
[Marga] (my shield is; my hammer isn't... I don't know if the feather armour is magic or just cool)
[Alai] (I'll assume it is for simplicity sake)
[NemnostiGM] (yes, it would be)
[Alai] Ok, just need to enchant weapon
[Alai] Is only temporary but will help
[Marga] Nice!!
* Alai starts casting to enhance Marga first (ill wait for Jevai to finish lodging)
[Jevai] teleport:
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 26 ]
[Jevai] (good)
[Jevai] zone of Silence:
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 1 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 14 ]
[Jevai] (D: D: D:)
[Jevai] 9Destinty, whew)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 2 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 15 ]
[Jevai] (still fails by 5)
[NemnostiGM] (ok let's roll for backlash)
[NemnostiGM] (looks like table 2B)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d100 ] getting [ 90 ]
[Jevai] (oh whew that's nothign)
[NemnostiGM] Jevai, your zone of silence works exceptionally well when lodged, rendering you unconscious, and thus silent, for an hour.
[Jevai] (hurr hurr)
[NemnostiGM] You will need to try that again once you wake up
[Marga] Well, shit
* Jevai can dothat, grumbling but relieved it wasn't worse
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 23 ]
[Jevai] (there we go)
* Jevai will do the invisibility sphere which is ACTAULLY the worst, becuase she'd gonna go for broke and try extended echoing
[Jevai] (alai if you can make me smarter so I can get a bonus on my roll that's be great :V)
[Alai] (will do)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 19 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 33 ].
[Jevai] (actually I don't think you can timing wise so lets just see how it goes)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 4 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 17 ]
[Jevai] (thats a BIG fail)
[Jevai] (still 2b I think - 12 source and failed by 7)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d100 ] getting [ 64 ]
[NemnostiGM] (ah that one will have no effect in this case)
[Jevai] (whew)
* Jevai will try again _
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 23 ]
[Jevai] (failed by 1)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d100 ] getting [ 63 ]
[Jevai] -____- (spell's duration is halved)
[NemnostiGM] (womp womp)
[Jevai] nondetection
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 2 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 15 ]
[Jevai] (FUUUUCK)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d100 ] getting [ 70 ]
* Jevai rolls [ 3d10 ] getting [ 10 4 6 ] for a total of [ 20 ]
* Jevai looks a little haggard when she is finally ready, and is wearning long, tight sleeves under her usual tunic, which you can tell my lookign are holdong the lodged spells against her ski
[Alai] lets get ready now
[NemnostiGM] All right, the three of you gather together at Nemnosti, having made your preparations.
[Jevai] (skin)
[Alai] (start with Marga... GMW on her halbard)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 25 ].
[Alai] (good, +1 enhancement bonus for 7 hours)
[Alai] (Heroism on Marga)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+12
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+12 ] getting [ 14 ] which, after the modifier [ 12 ] totals [ 26 ].
[Alai] (good)
[Alai] (barkskin on marga)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 2 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 16 ].
[Alai] (good)
[Alai] (Mage armor on me)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 27 ].
[Alai] (heroism on me)
[Alai] !roll 1d20_14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ Error. The syntax is !roll xdx+x. ].
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 24 ].
[Alai] (see invisibility on me)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 4 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 18 ].
[Alai] (detect scrying on me)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 1 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 15 ].
[Alai] (2A)
[Alai] !roll 1d100
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d100 ] getting [ 85 ].
[Alai] !roll 1d10
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d10 ] getting [ 7 ].
[Alai] (hurt but cast)
[Alai] (heroism on Jevai)
[Alai] (Ill try and get rid of the strain or else well have to repeat a bunch of spells)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+11
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+11 ] getting [ 3 ] which, after the modifier [ 11 ] totals [ 14 ].
[Alai] (I had no source when I tried to reduce it)
[Alai] (that failed)
[NemnostiGM] (yup)
[Alai] (now we rest for an hour and I repeat all the 10 minute buffs)
[NemnostiGM] (yeah)
[Alai] (heroism and barkskin on Marga)
[Alai] !roll 1d20_14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ Error. The syntax is !roll xdx+x. ].
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 5 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 19 ].
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 11 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 25 ].
[Alai] (heroism and see invis on me)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 24 ].
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 16 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 30 ].
[Alai] (heroism on Jevai)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 29 ].
[Alai] (greater magic aura on us to conceal)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 13 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 27 ].
[Alai] We are ready now...are you set for going invisible and teleporting in?
* Alai looks at the pair
[Jevai] yes
[Alai] (cast invisibiliy bubble)
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 4 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 18 ].
[Alai] (good)
* Alai casts teleport
* Jevai can dislodge the zone of silence as well
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 20 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 34 ].
[Jevai] (and nondetection)
[NemnostiGM] (All right, I'm going to say that that 20 means you can arrive right on target without further rolling)
[Alai] (thanks)
They arrive at the Crease, and despite some problems with their spells, Alai is able to begin casting her Legend Lore
[NemnostiGM] The ulajeta blinks out of existence, and you find yourself next to the river in the deeply forested area of Musune known as the Crease.
[NemnostiGM] (you can go on roll20 to see where you're at)
[NemnostiGM] The great cliff with the spiral ancestors and carvings stands before you, with the waterfall cascading down.
[Marga] (anyone else around?)
[Alai] (and am I close enough to start Legend Lore?)
[NemnostiGM] You don't see anyone immediately around. The place has the same strange quality as before, but last time, of course, Gunuremai was here, with Pughan. Gunuremai does not appear to be present.
[NemnostiGM] Yes, I think we can say you're close enough to say that the gate is "at hand"
[Jevai] (hopefully not Pughan either :p)
[NemnostiGM] (that would be a surprise!)
* Alai consumes more fos and starts casting
[Alai] I will need time
[NemnostiGM] Jevai and Marga, what are you doing while Alai is doing her casting?
[Marga] (solitaire? :v)
* Jevai is trying to keep focused on the spell timing for Invisibility Sphere
* Marga picks up a stick off the ground and fisgets with it, spinning it around her fingers and such
[Jevai] (Oh and I'll do that slated mage armour just in case :p)
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 12 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 25 ]
* Jevai will try and keep herself between marga and Alai and not let marga get too far :x
[NemnostiGM] (OK, but basically Alai's Invisibility Bubble is a single 5' cube, but it only lasts a short time. The Zone of Silence lasts longer, but it does require you to stay close, as Jevai mentioned)
[NemnostiGM] Marga, can I get you to make a Survival or Perception roll, your choice?
[NemnostiGM] (Jevai, you are too busy with spells and such)
[Alai] (dont forget the +2 moral bonus from heroism)
[Marga] !roll 1d20+16
* Lan-werk rolls for Marga: [ 1d20+16 ] getting [ 14 ] which, after the modifier [ 16 ] totals [ 30 ].
[Jevai] (why did I think she was covering allof us)
[NemnostiGM] Marga, there is definitely a presence here, off to the east. You hear sounds from high in the trees that sounds like a vulture, alerting you to its presence.
* Marga taps Jevai on the shoulder.
[Marga] (q) there's someone here. or something.
[Marga] (q) to the east.
* Marga points in that direction
* Jevai looks
* Jevai rolls [ 1d20+13 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 13 ] totals [ 28 ]
[Marga] (q) can't see 'em, but they're there...
[Jevai] (perception)
[NemnostiGM] Jevai, you don't know what Marga is noticing. Doesn't sound like anything to you.
[Jevai] (Yarr)
[Jevai] If needed - do you think you coudl distract them or lead them away?
[Marga] If I gotta, yeah.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] keep watch for now
* Marga nods back.
[Jevai] let me know if you think it has noticed us, or is calling any friends. I'm sure they do have people watching here
[Jevai] thanks
* Jevai takes a deep, steadyign breath
[Jevai] I can only take us all back if I can touch us all. If you have to go out after that thing, and it is down to me and Alai here and there's danger...
[NemnostiGM] All right, so the plan is for Jevai to dislodge her invisibility sphere just when Alai's is about to end? So that they overlap, but not by much?
[Jevai] (yes - liek a round or two)
[Marga] I can fly home.
[Jevai] I know - but they might chase and I worry.
* Marga shrugs. "I signed up for this."
* Jevai nods
[NemnostiGM] All right, Jevai can dislodge her spell, so you stay invisible.
[Jevai] I know.
[NemnostiGM] Marga are you staying in the silence / invisibility or going out ranging?
* Jevai gives another little sigh of relief because we *shoudl* have a little more time :x
[NemnostiGM] Alai, why don't you go ahead and roll for your spell now, to see if it finishes just about when Jevai's spell will unexpectedly end (if you roll 1 = 10 minutes)
[Alai] (rolling duration first then the spell casting roll)
[Alai] !roll 1d4
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d4 ] getting [ 2 ].
[Alai] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Alai: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 18 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 32 ].
[NemnostiGM] (all right - Marga?)
[Alai] (20 minutes and success!)
[NemnostiGM] Jevai, while your spell seemed to go off without much problem, a few minutes into it, the lodging unexpectedly fails, rendering your group visible, while Alai is still casting.
* Jevai will dislodge the otehr one immediately _
[Marga] uh... that wasn't supposed to happen was it?
[Jevai] no, shit
[Jevai] (can we move Alai?)
[NemnostiGM] Marga, during that period when you're visible, you hear that noise again, from the east. It's definitely another vulture.
[Jevai] (like walk her 5 feet away?)
[NemnostiGM] (yes, Alai can do basic routine things)
[Alai] (yes I can move)
[Marga] (what kind of vulture noise is it)
[Jevai] (cool, well let's move her just a little once the new invis is up)
[Alai] (closer to the Crease?)
[NemnostiGM] It's not a full-on call "cra-craaa!" or whatever, but it is definitely sounding like it's meant to alert you to something.
[Marga] (q) they saw us... the birds are trying to warn us
[Marga] (q) fuuuuck... how much longer is this gonna take?
[Jevai] (yeah)
[Jevai] they're trying to warn *us*?
[Jevai] and I don't know... hopefully not long
[Marga] well, me.
[Marga] it's a vulture.
[Jevai] if we have to, I'll take us out before its over
[Marga] d'you want me to go look around or stay here?
[Jevai] I'll leave that to you.
[Alai] Go as bird? Easier to flee if needed?
[Marga] yeah. probably. I'll go.
* Marga takes flight...
* Marga will try to spot any threats, especially from the direction whence came the warning
* Jevai has her slate out and is ready to try and cast or dislodge her teleport if needed
Marga hears a noise of a female vulture, Rujk, who Ushukuna had assigned to watch this place
[NemnostiGM] All right, you head up and out, and quickly identify the source of the noise: a small elderly black female vulture, high up in the trees, at a vantage point where she can look down upon the Crease.
[Marga] (not a human in vulture form, as far as I can tell, right?)
[NemnostiGM] (there is actually no way to tell that. Vultures are vultures.)
[Marga] (ok, wasn't sure)
* Marga settles onto a branch on the other side of the tree but at close to the same level
[Marga] (i) what news, cousin? I heard your call.
* NPC-1 is now known as Rujk
* Rujk is a smallish black vulture, definitely of elder years. You think you've seen her before but you've never met her, to your knowledge.
[Rujk] Name is Rujk. Your friends smell bad.
[Marga] [vulture chuckle] bad how?
[Rujk] Hard to say.
[Rujk] One of them is hurt.
[Rujk] There are only two, yes, plus you?
[Marga] You have good eyes. Or nose.
[Marga] What does it matter to you?
* Marga asks curiously
[Rujk] Mother tells me to watch. So I watch. A few days now.
[Marga] Mother Ushukuna?
[Rujk] Is there any other?
* Marga craas an acknowledgement.
[Marga] What else does she tell you?
[Rujk] Not much. Just to report on humans being here. So you are here. So I will report.
[Rujk] What are you called, sister?
[Marga] Ivis.
[Marga] You report to Mother?
* Marga sounds impressed
[Rujk] She has an interest in this place.
[Rujk] Apparently so do you.
[Marga] she has spoken to me of it also.
[Rujk] I would not have called, had you not been here. Just report.
[Marga] We won't be here very long though.
[Rujk] What are you doing?
[Marga] I don't really understand what they are doing...
* Marga says honestly
[Marga] They are... trying to find out more about the spiral ancestors?
[Rujk] I don't understand.
[Marga] Me neither. I just know they wanted to learn about... whatever happened here. The crease?
* Rujk caws in understanding.
[Rujk] Using magic, then?
[Marga] Yeah.
[Marga] I should go back to them I gues
[Marga] (guess)
[Rujk] I am not here to interfere. Or eat. Just watch, and report.
* Marga bobs her head in acknowledgement.
[Marga] Be well then, cousin!
* Marga takes off back to Jevai
They learn that the Crease is a door-map, with the iron dagger-keys and touching the spiral ancestors allowing travel to different locations
[NemnostiGM] All right, you get back, while Alai is still casting.
* Marga craas softly
[Jevai] is everythign okay?
[Jevai] I hope that's a yes :x
* Marga bobs her head
[Alai] Just nod... the magic will not render you invisible, but bird on ground not big deal
* Jevai nods, looking relieved
[NemnostiGM] All right, the casting ends and Alai, your head is filled with strange knowledge.
[Jevai] (as soon as she is done I'm grabbing them both and going HOME and we can deal with strange knowledge once we are back home)
* Jevai will take us right back to Alai's rooms if she can, or if there's protections from teleportation, then back to the main ulajeta gate)
[Marga] Whew.
* Marga will de-bird
[Marga] That coulda been worse!
* Jevai feels lightheaded a bit
[Jevai] yes.
[NemnostiGM] The Crease is both a door and a map, created by Hulti sigillants centuries ago. In its current form, it allows travel, as a megalithic door, to a fixed place. But its target is not specified by word in the ordinary way, but by touching the spiral markings upon the cliff as a map of celestial bodies visible from the desired place. When its two keys are in place, its destination can be reset to another location than the one presently set. Without those two keys in place, its destination is fixed.
[Jevai] I'm sorry about the spell. Source is unpredictable.
[Alai] Is good to confirm our theories...
* Alai explains what the spell revealed.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] I wonder, if the slate is also some kind of map
[Marga] so it's just a big teleporter? that's it?
[Jevai] no.... I think it can go into, hmm, the folds of the unfolding?
[Marga] Huh?
[Jevai] those little poskets, like I was talkign before
[Jevai] (pockets)
[Jevai] You can't, to my knowledgem teleport into those places
[Jevai] liek where gunumerai sent me.
[Marga] Ok but why would you want to?
[Alai] Makes me wonder if there is something in one that Gunuremai wants
[Jevai] well, the Hulti have been hiding there
[Marga] ohhh
[Jevai] I think they may not all be able to come and go as they please
[Marga] so they're not so little pockets?
[Alai] Someone locked door behind them, eh?
[Jevai] some of them, anyway
[Marga] Well, Rujk - the vulture - said that Mother Ushukuna has her watching it.
[Jevai] I think they can use the door as it is, to go to and from that place, but I don't know if there are constraints on that.
[Jevai] did Rujk say if she had seen any other poeple?
[Marga] Uhhhh... I didn't... ask.
* Marga slumps, feeling stupid.
[Jevai] fair enough
[Marga] I'm sorry.
[Jevai] we had other concerns
[Alai] Is not like you planned on speaking to vulture during mission.
[Marga] :/
[Alai] Thank you for helping us
[Jevai] yes, thank you.
[Jevai] it was extremely reassuring to have you there
[Marga] Well, glad I could so... something, I guess
[Marga] (so]do)
[Jevai] I'm glad the spell did't take longer
[Alai] Yeah, what was with that? Source being fickle on you?
[Jevai] We knew there was a chance that we woudln't have enough coverage but, oof
[Jevai] yes
[Jevai] It should have been twice as long
[Marga] At least you didn't pee.
[Marga] Or go blind.
[Alai] people pee all the time. Blind, not as often.
[Jevai] well, I *did* pass out for an hour the first time, and I think... there was almost somethign worse, but. We're all okay
* Alai nods
[Jevai] those were not easy workings for *me*
[Jevai] we made a good team.
[Alai] Head is still fuzzy from divination. I need some rest, and maybe good soak.
* Jevai nods
[Jevai] I'm sure Kuspir and the others will want to hear what we've learned, but rest first
[Jevai] I may go do the same
* Alai nods
Kuspir receives word of an Imperial visitation, who turns out to be Conduit Emul and his attendant, Zanti, an envoy
[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, you are on guard at the West Gate one morning when a young boy comes running up to the gate along the River Road. You think you recognize him as one of the Keronaf boys from Hertu.
* Kuspir will wait for him to get closer and see what's up
* Rujk is now known as Givri
[Givri] Ah, yes, ahh, who is in charge?
* Givri says, out of breath. He's maybe nine or ten, just around Rugu's age.
[Kuspir] Me, is something wrong?
[Givri] I am supposed to tell you, there is an Imperial caravan coming to town. It got to the village about an hour ago and they're just watering the horses before heading this way. They may already have left.
[Kuspir] (have I ever heard of an imperial caravan coming here, or have any idea what that might entail?)
[NemnostiGM] (An imperial caravan presumably means something from the Emperor Eluli, which is a big deal, very rare. Not that Eluli Himself would ever come, of course, but whatever it is is some kind of major event, about which you have had no advance warning.)
[Kuspir] (ok, so it's like... visitors or emissaries, not like, a merchant caravan or something that just happens to be from the Imperial city or whatever)
[NemnostiGM] (right, exactly)
[Kuspir] Thank you, go ahead in and get a drink of water and some food before you head back.
* Kuspir says to the boy
[Givri] Thank you, sir.
* Kuspir will spread the word to whatever other stoneguards are nearby/on duty, and get them to pass the word along to other important folks
[NemnostiGM] A short time later, a caravan appears as the boy promised. It is exceptionally ornate, led by four horses. A small group of attendants hop out and prepare the ground before you with fine powder, and two people emerge from it. The first is a very high-ranking Voice of the Dead, and the second is an envoy.
[NemnostiGM] (Kuspir, give me a K:religion)
[Kuspir] !roll 1d20+6
* Lan-werk rolls for Kuspir: [ 1d20+6 ] getting [ 17 ] which, after the modifier [ 6 ] totals [ 23 ].
[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, you're quite sure that this Voice is one of the Emperor's Conduits, the noble Voices who serve as His primary officials throughout Khutu.
[NemnostiGM] As you look upon this scene, the envoy comes before you and speaks.
* Zanti is dressed in fine silk leggings and a long shirt, as is fashionable among the Khutuan nobility these days. They are perhaps in their early middle years, with short-cropped light hair and green eyes, perhaps suggesting Basaian or Nuluan ancestry. They are wearing the black and white cap that is customary among envoys when working in their role.
[Zanti] You are privileged to have before you the venerable Conduit Emul, who has come to bless this place with His presence. I am Zanti of the Fontuni, speaker for the Conduit.
* Emul is dressed in long black Voice robes that trail behind him. He is elderly, perhaps seventy-five, with a thin, well-trimmed grey beard. The lining of his robes are bright orange and yellow, as is the great velvet stole that wraps over his shoulders, with a fringe of vumuri shells running down each edge.
* Emul nods in your general direction, but says nothing.
[Kuspir] Greetings, honoured guests. May I ask what brings you to Nemnosti?
[Zanti] You will take us to Nemnu Ula.
[NemnostiGM] (you can also make a K:nobility if you like)
[Kuspir] (with my big 0? well +1 if it has to do with the Nemnu lineage but I'm guessing it doesn't)
[NemnostiGM] (yeah no)
[Kuspir] !roll 1d20
* Lan-werk rolls for Kuspir: [ 1d20 ] getting [ 12 ].
[NemnostiGM] (nope)
[Kuspir] I am certain the Lady will be glad to see you in due course. I am charged with ensuring Her safety and that of the ulajeta, so I ask, again, for your purpose here.
[Zanti] We come on matters of theological and political importance.
[Kuspir] Very well. Please enter, and I will ensure that word of your arrival is sent to the Lady and the Hands and Voices who serve Her.
* Zanti enters first, almost as if looking for trouble, and the older Conduit follows after them.
* Kuspir will make sure that word is sent to Ingo and Jesa and I suppose Hojon probably needs to know that they're here too, but I assume mainly the priests since he said it was of theological importance.
[NemnostiGM] All right, Izu and Ifa, you are quickly alerted to the presence of these visitors. Conduit Emul has indicated he will speak only directly to Nemnu Ula Herself - literally, his attendant Zanti is the only one who will communicate with any of you.
[NemnostiGM] Kuspir, you can meet up with Izu and Ifa if you like. But the meeting with Nemnu will only be attended by Izu.
* Izu will head immediately to Nemnu's quarters to see what she wants done and help her prepare.
* Ifa will presumably work on arranging quarters and refreshments for the visitors, unless otherwise tasked.
[Kuspir] (I assume they're busy preparing things but I could talk to them later I guess?)
[NemnostiGM] Nemnu will simply say to bring the Conduit in as soon as he is ready.
[Kuspir] (is that for me to bring him in, or someone else?)
[NemnostiGM] Ifa, you can speak to the Conduit's envoy about their needs while here.
[NemnostiGM] (you can bring him in Kuspir, and wait outside)
[Ifa] (In this channel or elsewhere?)
[NemnostiGM] (we have time, why don't we handle the Nemnu stuff first and then we'll do you)
[NemnostiGM] (the timing isn't critical)
[Ifa] (kk)
Conduit Emul announces to Nemnu, with Izu present, that Voice Ingo has been selected by Eluli Ula to be a Conduit, which Nemnu opposes
* Kuspir will escort the party to see Nemnu, then, and wait outside in case he's needed for anything
* Emul enters the room, while his attendant stays outside with you, Kuspir.
[Emul] Nemnu Ula, I bring greetings from the Emperor.
* Emul frowns.
[Emul] Is the attendant necessary?
* Emul looks over at Izu.
[Emul] I had hoped for a private audience.
* Izu raises an eyebrow and looks to Nemnu.
[Nemnu] This is Izu-who-is-Farai. He attends my bodily needs, and yes, he is ... necessary.
[Nemnu] You may speak here and know that it will go no further.
[Emul] Very well - boy, listen. This is a matter of confidence.
* Emul shakes his head, as if this is Not Quite Acceptable.
[Izu] Of course.
[Emul] Very well. Then I will not delay. Conduit Zubisil has died.
[Emul] It is the desire of the Prime that Ingo of the Pechotukho serve in his stead.
[Nemnu] I see. That will not be acceptable.
[Emul] I ... pardon me, Holy One?
* Emul seems flummoxed.
[Nemnu] It is not acceptable to me. Ingo plays a central role here at the ulajeta.
* Izu 's eye go slightly wide.
[Emul] I am sure You understand that the Emperor also has a role in mind for Voice Ingo.
[Nemnu] I understand.
[Nemnu] But you will understand that my answer is no.
[Emul] This is very unexpected. He will not accept such an answer.
[Nemnu] In that case, Conduit, I suggest that you ask better questions.
[Nemnu] But for now, I am tired.
[Nemnu] Farai, please escort the Conduit to his chambers. I will speak to him again tomorrow, once he has had a chance to rest.
[Izu] Yes, My Lady.
[Izu] If you'll follow me, Conduit.
[Nemnu] Actually, have Medimur take him there. You, stay.
[Izu] As you wish.
* Izu will do so.
* Emul heads out to Kuspir, clearly disappointed and confused.
* Izu will return and shut the door behind him.
[Emul] Is this how things work, here at Nemnosti, then?
* Emul says to Kuspir?
[Kuspir] The Lady's the one in charge. I will show you to your rooms now, Conduit.
* Emul will follow you, then.
Izu and Nemnu discuss her strategy in resisting Ingo’s appointment, and they discuss who might take his place once he leaves
[Izu] My Lady?
[Nemnu] Yes, Farai?
[Izu] I know that I do not have your many years of experience, nor your knowledge, nor your insight... but... is this wise?
[Nemnu] What is it that you think just happened?
[Izu] I think You just refused a direct request from the Emperor.
[Nemnu] Yes.
[Izu] May I ask why?
[Nemnu] Because, when I let Ingo take the role, I want the Emperor to understand what a great service I have done Him, what a great hardship this is on me. And to see what is on offer from the Mausoleum.
[Izu] I see. Then it is a negotiation?
[Nemnu] It is now.
* Izu nods.
[Izu] I understand.
[Nemnu] Above all, I would not have the Conduit think that I am eager to have Ingo take up this role. Which I am, but I can hardly make it seem so, can I?
[Izu] Of course. Thank You for humoring my ignorance.
[Izu] It is a lesson I will remember.
[Nemnu] We will need good information from Onighus, and not all of that can come from my brother Borgegus. All the more important that I make it clear how much I do not wish him to leave.
[Izu] I see...
[Izu] I assume that you and Ingo have already spoken of this, then.
[Nemnu] Of course.
[Nemnu] My dear Vestor and Jagu will be much missed here, but they will both have roles to play in the city.
[Nemnu] I will of course, need a new high priest.
[Izu] Of course. If you wish, I can prepare reports on those you wish to consider.
[Nemnu] No written reports. But I do value your opinion.
[Izu] Well... As I see it there are three main choices. Imas is... clever. But I do not believe he could hold the loyalty of other voices. Kailas is wise and knows more history than any other voice I know, but he is not a... people person. He would struggle to lead, I think, though he would try.
[Nemnu] That is two.
[Izu] The third... I cannot speak to with any objectivity.
[Nemnu] You? Oh, my beloved Farai, do not worry, I would not burden you with such a task.
* Nemnu sounds almost amused.
[Nemnu] You are much too important to me in your present role.
* Izu feels his heart drop into his feet.
[Izu] I... of course.
[Izu] I'm sorry if I spoke out of my station.
[Nemnu] You did not, have no fear.
[Nemnu] In any case, it is not a matter that needs a decision imminently.
[Izu] Of course. In the meantime I will ensure the Conduit is comfortable and... well chaperoned.
[Nemnu] Yes, please.
[Izu] Will there be anything else, My Lady?
[Nemnu] Not for now, no.
* Izu will bow and take his leave then.
Ifa consults with the envoy Zanti about their accommodations and security during their visit to the ulajeta
[NemnostiGM] All right, Ifa, you will have had Nemnu's finest guest chambers prepared for the two visitors, and also ensured that the attendants, horses, etc. are treated with courtesy, though obviously the servants just need a warm fire and a hot meal.
[NemnostiGM] You can present the rooms to the envoy Zanti before the Conduit returns.
* Nemnu is now known as Zanti
[Zanti] Hmm. Well, I suppose these will do, for country accommodations.
[Zanti] Is it true that here at Nemnosti all the classes dine together?
[Ifa] Barring particular circumstances, like injury or illness, yes.
[Ifa] Would you and the Conduit prefer elsewise?
[Zanti] We have heard that there have been security concerns here at your ulajeta.
[Zanti] I would simply want to ensure that the Conduit is not in any danger.
[Ifa] (Do I know anything about this person or the Conduit?)
[NemnostiGM] (you can make me a K:nobility)
[Ifa] !roll 1d20+10
* Lan-werk rolls for Ifa: [ 1d20+10 ] getting [ 17 ] which, after the modifier [ 10 ] totals [ 27 ].
[NemnostiGM] You don't know either of them personally but Conduit Emul is known to you as a name, from your time in Onighus. He is of the Rumufisku lineage, one of the major noble families of Onighus (as, too, are the Pechotukho, Ingo's lineage).
[Ifa] I will speak to the Stoneguards about extra personal security, if you like.
[NemnostiGM] Zanti is not known to you at all but they introduced themselves as being of the Fontuni lineage, another major noble lineage, though not from the city.
[Zanti] That will be adequate, I expect.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] Is there anything else I can do or provide for you or the Conduit?
[Zanti] We will need wine brought to the room.
[Zanti] Beyond that, the Conduit will expect the staff to be at his disposal.
[Ifa] As you say. I will be sure to inform the appropriate parties to make arrangements, and I can retrieve the wine myself.
[Zanti] Thank you.
[Zanti] Oh, one more thing.
[Ifa] (Can I roll Sense Motive to get a read on them, beyond just officious and haughty? )
[Ifa] Hmm?
[Zanti] I expect there will be no magical scrying or investigation in our vicinity. The Conduit would not approve.
[Ifa] In your vicinity?
[Zanti] Yes, no scrying on the chambers, or on our person, or anything of the sort.
[Ifa] Oh, of course not.
[Zanti] Thank you.
[Ifa] There are people working on combatting the security concerns you mentioned before, which is requiring some divinatory workings, but nothing that would fall upon your or the Conduit.
[Ifa] When you mentioned your vicinity, I thought I should make sure.
[NemnostiGM] (and sure, you can roll SM)
[Ifa] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Ifa: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 6 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 20 ].
[NemnostiGM] (just officious and haughty, as far as you can tell)
[Ifa] (kk)
[Ifa] I will leave you to your business, then, envoy, but please do not hesitate to ask for me if you need anything else.
Kuspir, Ifa, and Izu meet up to discuss the strange Imperial visitors, but Izu is sworn to secrecy and so cannot reveal what he knows
[NemnostiGM] All right, you can meet up with Izu and Kuspir after having taken care of your guests.
[Ifa] All right, so, what's this all about?
[Izu] I cannot say. Not yet. Things are in motion.
* Ifa nods.
[Kuspir] Whatever happened today, they are annoyed about the Lady's response to it.
[Izu] Yes. I imagine so.
[Ifa] (to Izu) I take it you're sworn to secrecy about said response?
* Izu nods.
[Izu] All will be well, Sister. I have faith in Our Lady's... decisions.
[Izu] (Ifa, do you want to roll SM?)
[Ifa] (I do! :) )
[Ifa] !roll 1d20+14
* Lan-werk rolls for Ifa: [ 1d20+14 ] getting [ 8 ] which, after the modifier [ 14 ] totals [ 22 ].
[Izu] !roll 1d20+1
* Lan-werk rolls for Izu: [ 1d20+1 ] getting [ 15 ] which, after the modifier [ 1 ] totals [ 16 ].
[Izu] (Izu definitely seems upset about something and trying to hide it.)
[Ifa] What's going on? Is it a problem?
[Ifa] Something's bothering you.
[Izu] It's... fine. Nothing that concerns the safety of the Ulajeta. things will work out.
* Ifa frowns.
[Ifa] If you say so...
[Ifa] (to Kuspir) The envoy did mention concerns about security, just with what we've been going through lately.
[Kuspir] I probably didn't help, I held them up a bit at the gate.
[Kuspir] I just felt like they should at least say what brought them here, not just demand to see Her.
[Izu] I do not think it was your fault, Kuspir.
[Ifa] They came from the Emperor. Bound to make them feel important. :/
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] I'm sure.
[Ifa] I wouldn't take it personally. ;)
[Izu] I think they're just assholes.
[Ifa] In what way?
[Izu] It seems like they came here looking to find fault.
[Ifa] To what purpose.
[Kuspir] It might just be that they find fault everywhere they go that isn't Onighus.
[Ifa] I would think unity more important now than ever.
* Ifa nods towards Kuspir
[Izu] I believe their definition of unity may be very different from that of The Grey Carver.
[Izu] I believe she is attempting to reinforce that to them.
[Kuspir] Do you know any of them already, Ifa? Or, know them by reputation, that is?
* Ifa will report what she knows from earlier.
* Kuspir nods
[Kuspir] So, rich folks from the city.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] Throwing a little weight around, I'd guess.
[Izu] They are more than that. The 18 conduits are the voices of the emperor.
[Kuspir] I suppose it's inevitable they'd.... wait, 18?
* Kuspir frowns
[Izu] Oh, did I say 18? Perhaps I misspoke.
[Izu] Everyone knows that there are 19.
* Kuspir looks slightly dubious
[Kuspir] right.
[Ifa] Hmm.
* Ifa frowns.
[Kuspir] So, how long do we think they're going to be here? It didn't seem like their discussion today was very productive but they didn't just leave, so they must plan to keep on trying to convince the Lady of... whatever they're here to talk to her about
[Izu] At least through tomorrow. Beyond that I'm not sure.
* Ifa *nods,*
[Ifa] Best we keeo an eye on them, jut in case.
[Kuspir] All right.
[Izu] Keep them happy, but do not let them out of sight.
[Izu] For everyone's sakes.
* Ifa nods.
[Ifa] Polite observation and ovfuscation.
Izu receives an evening visit from Voice Ingo and they discuss his departure and imminent elevation
[NemnostiGM] All right, later that evening, Izu, there is a knock at your door.
* Izu will get up from his emotional stewing and answer it.
[Izu] Yes?
[Ingo] I'm sorry to bother you so late in the day.
[Izu] Ingo! Come in, please!
[Ingo] But as you can imagine, there are precious few I can speak to about this.
[Ingo] I have spoken with Nemnu, as you might imagine.
[Izu] Of course.
[Ingo] I have not spoken with Conduit Emul - yet. That will be for tomorrow.
[Izu] What will you say to them?
[Ingo] Apparently, I will tell him that I am reluctant to leave Nemnosti in this time of need.
[Izu] I see. Do you know what considerations She is hoping to secure from the empire?
[Ingo] Not exactly. Monetary, I would think, more likely than personnel.
* Izu nods.
[Ingo] To be frank, Izu, it is more that she does not want to seem eager for me to be in Onighus, than that she does not want me to leave Nemnosti, if that makes sense.
[Izu] Yes. I understand.
[Izu] So... you will really be leaving then?
[Ingo] This has been a long time in coming. Since my own time as an acolyte, really.
[Ingo] You must remember, I come from there originally. I came here, I think, with Her knowledge of this possibility.
[Ingo] There are only so many high priests from the Khutuan nobility, these days.
[Izu] Of course. You must miss the Capital. I cannot imagine leaving here for so long.
* Ingo shakes his head.
[Ingo] I do not miss the capital. You misunderstand.
[Ingo] This is my home now. But my service to Her is of far greater importance than my comfort.
[Izu] Oh... I see. I had hoped that at least you would be happy to be going back. I know Junu has his doubts.
[Ingo] I will be one of the honoured Nineteen. I will have direct contact with the Prime Himself. I must be careful not to seem too unhappy!
* Izu laughs.
[Ingo] Not that I am, not truly. Nor Junu. He is a country boy, but he does love the attention that an artist receives in the city, especially one of his stature.
[Izu] You will be missed. Both of you. Truly.
[Ingo] It will be a change.
[Ingo] But do not worry, I will not be so far away. You will write, and I will make time to respond, I promise.
* Izu laughs.
[Izu] I will believe that when I see it.
[Izu] But yes, I will write.
[Izu] As often as I can spare.
[Ingo] Well ... come here, then, in case the next time you see me, we are not permitted physical contact, or I have become an incredible asshole.
* Ingo smiles.
* Izu smiles and hugs hum warmly.
[Ingo] Well, I should let you get to bed.
[Ingo] Goodnight, Izu.
[Izu] Ingo... promise me one thing.
[Ingo] What is that?
[Izu] Don't ever become as big an asshole as Conduit Emul.
* Ingo laughs.
[Ingo] I promise.
* Izu smiles.
[Izu] Then may the ancestors watch over you and bless you.
[Ingo] And you also.
[NemnostiGM] Until next we gather by the firelight, young acolytes!
