Ye Olde Adventure Worlde session 48
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Summary
Laris talks to Dianthea and Rufus about what it would mean to accept Korivan's offer to be adopted as a Hrieffen. Eren tells Induriel he is leaving. Korivan conducts a ritual with Malak and his apprentices to determine the young goblin's birthrights and blood ties. Eyllia talks to her mother about what happened with Vana.Dianthea lends her body to Ulkash so that she can experience physicality.
Session
- Session date: 2019-12-08
- In Game date:
Laris discusses his potential adoption with his wife
<YOAW_Narrator> (Having this discussion at the fort, yes?)
<Laris_> (yeah, that would make sense)
* Rufus_Metillius is settling into the routine of the fort.
* Dianthea is a little more out of place, but making a go of it.
* Laris_ will be interested to see the improvements since the last time he was here
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Rufus_Metillius (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Well, it has a complete circuit of walls, which is good for a fort. ;) )
<Laris_> (that's a plus!)
* Rufus_Metilius (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Laris_ will find a time to talk with them some evening, once we've had a chance to settle in a bit
<YOAW_Narrator> (The new work is currently mostly timber, but is being slowly replaced with stonework as materials permit.)
<Laris_> (cool)
<Laris_> (and I understand we have more livable living quarters now too ;)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yes indeed. There's a barracks, with separate officers quarters, and larger connected apartments for you and Dianthea (and Rufus ;) ))
<Laris_> (nice :)
* Laris_ has some wine (brought from home to supplement the stocks here) after dinner
<Laris_> I hope this is to your liking.
<Rufus_Metilius> It's a fine vintage, sure.
* Dianthea smiles and nods.
<Laris_> There was a matter I wanted to discuss with you both.
* Laris_ is pensive and a bit uncertain, perhaps.
<Dianthea> Oh? What is it?
<Laris_> The Hrieffen - well, specifically Gaath Korivan - made me an offer which I'm still deliberating over. They want me to become part of their tribe.
* Dianthea gives a curious look.
<Dianthea> What does that mean, exactly?
* Rufus_Metilius looks thoughtful.
<Laris_> It is an unusual offer. They practice adoption of course, but not normally with people outside their broader background...
<Dianthea> Not with gaburrim, you mean?
<Dianthea> Not without, I mean.
<Dianthea> With non-goblins...you know what I'm trying to say.
<Laris_> Yes. I know of instances where they've adopted other goblinoids from other tribes into the Hrieffen, but I don't know of another instance quite like this one. Perhaps it's happened before,though.
<Rufus_Metilius> Did he say what brought this on?
<Laris_> And... I'm not entirely certain what it would mean. Certainly it would mean they perform a ceremony to make me one of them, to bind us closer together. Beyond that, my responsibilities to them would be increased, and it isn't something I could set aside casually.
<Laris_> Partly I think he wishes to secure a direct alliance with me, as opposed to with me by way of Mamitu.
<Laris_> And while they don't practice marriage alliances, this is something they can do.
* Rufus_Metilius nods.
<Laris_> And partly I think... I'm not sure. I think it means they respect me enough to make this offer. I don't want to take it lightly.
<Laris_> I believe they mean it as an honour.
<Dianthea> I'm sure it is one, but it *is
* a big step.
<Laris_> It's complex. Because my lifespan is liable to be much longer than theirs, it is something that would endure - potentially - for many of their generations.
<Dianthea> I know they don't practice marriage, but do you have any sense what this would mean for us?
* Dianthea indicates herself and Rufus.
<Dianthea> Would we be considered, hmm, relations of the tribe?
<Laris_> They trace relations through maternal lines so I don't think it would directly impact you or... any potential future offspring we might have.
<Laris_> I think they would treat you much as now - they have respect for you, and respect your connection to me, but they don't really understand marriage, as we practice it.
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Rufus_Metilius (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Dianthea nods and looks thoughtful.
* Rufus_Metilius (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
<Laris_> If I did decide to go through with it, I would like to invite you to be there, but I have no idea what their ritual might entail or how private it is. I presume, though, since it's the Hrieffen, there's a party involved.
* Laris_ says with a slight smile
<Rufus_Metilius> And your responsibilities to them. Any idea what those would be?
<YOAW_Narrator> They both smile at that.
<Laris_> Responsibilities... like an alliance. It would be my duty to aid them how I can, to defend them from threats, to help them navigate things like politics that are less familiar to them?
<Laris_> The thing is, I already feel a responsibility to do that.
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Client Quit)
<Laris_> This would formalize it, but even if I didn't go through with it, I would not feel comfortable just leaving them to their fates, having brought them into this arrangement to begin with.
<Laris_> They've been loyal and vitally important allies. I owe them a similar loyalty.
* Rufus_Metilius nods.
* Rufus_Metilius gives a slight smile at that as well.
<Laris_> I did tell Korivan that I didn't know, in the future, where my other duties might take me.
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
<Dianthea> But we're planning on staying here, yes? Fate permitting?
<Rufus_Metilius> Fate and the senate.
* Dianthea smirks.
<Laris_> He seemed to understand that, but this would be a tie that would endure beyond my posting here, if that should come to an end at some point. I do want to stay here. But fate might have other things planned.
<Rufus_Metilius> What would this mean for them?
<Rufus_Metilius> Korivan has to understand this draws them closer into alliance with Thantopolis.
<Rufus_Metilius> Not just you personally.
* Laris_ nods
<Laris_> I think he sees a future for his people and wants to position them for the best possible outcome.
<Laris_> Things are not going to simply go back to the way they were. They will need to adapt and move forward, and having new allies is part of that.
* Rufus_Metilius nods.
<Laris_> He wants to make sure his people will prosper.
<Dianthea> I think they're good allies to have, and we can reciprocate.
<Dianthea> Have you spoken to Mamitu about this?
<Laris_> Not yet. I thought it more important to discuss with you first, in case you had objections or concerns.
<YOAW_Narrator> They look at each other for a moment.
<Dianthea> I have concerns, but not objections.
* Laris_ nods
<Dianthea> And my concerns aren't, hmm, counter-arguments or anything.
<Dianthea> Just...general concern.
<Rufus_Metilius> It's not unprecedented, obviously. Plenty of our people have made stranger alliances with locals before.
<Laris_> I admit I do have concerns too. I don't know how this works in a hundred years, or two hundred. I don't know how the Hrieffen of twenty generations down the line might see this relationship.
<Rufus_Metilius> I suppose you'll be around to shape it, of course.
* Laris_ nods
<Laris_> I hope so. But I don't know if they'll view it as favourably, perhaps.
<Dianthea> But there's no real way to prepare for that.
<Laris_> And I can envision situations where it might conflict with other duties. If the Senate changes their outlook on the colony here, or decides to take a different approach...
<Laris_> If they told me to turn against the Hrieffen. I would ... well. it would be a decision, at that point.
* Dianthea nods.
<Dianthea> I would hope that wouldn't be likely.
<Rufus_Metilius> You never know.
* Rufus_Metilius shrugs.
<Rufus_Metilius> Something to consider.
<Laris_> I hope so too, but who knows what the future holds.
<Laris_> I think the alliance with the Hrieffen has value, but I don't know if I can convey that to the Senate, if forced to justify my decisions at some point in the future.
* Dianthea reaches over to take Laris's hand.
<Dianthea> Well, we support you regardless.
* Laris_ smiles at that
<Dianthea> Not to speak for you, Rufus...
* Rufus_Metilius smiles.
<Rufus_Metilius> You know me well enough to do so most of the time.
<Rufus_Metilius> Whatever you decide, we're with you.
* Rufus_Metilius will reach out to take Laris's other hand.
<Laris_> I did make it clear, in case there was any confusion, that I serve the Raven Queen, and while I respect their worship of Bane, it isn't mine. I can pay him respect, I'm certain, and it seems that our deities' interests converge in certain regards, so I hope that won't cause problems.
* Dianthea nods.
<Dianthea> That's good to hear.
<Laris_> Alright. I'll talk to Mamitu when we return to the city, but barring any considerable objections, I'll accept Korivan's offer.
<YOAW_Narrator> They'll both nod.
<Laris_> In other news.. I might not be supposed to tell you this yet, but I understand that Fata Merula intends to ask Calkas to marry her.
* Laris_ can't suppress a smile at that
* Dianthea looks momentarily surprised and then grins widely.
<Dianthea> Thank the Queen!
* Rufus_Metilius smiles.
<Rufus_Metilius> Good for them.
<Rufus_Metilius> They both deserve some happiness.
<Laris_> Believe me, it has taken all my strength not to say anything to him about it, but I've managed somehow.
<Dianthea> I can't believe you kept it to yourself all the way out here. I would have been bursting to tell you both.
* Laris_ smiles
<Laris_> I can keep my mouth shut when I have to, but it was quite hard :)
<Rufus_Metilius> We'll have to have a nice celebration for them. I guess we're the most family they have here, outside of Merula's acolytes at the temple.
* Laris_ nods
<Laris_> I want to make it a special event, as much as the circumstances permit.
<Dianthea> Oh, absolutely.
* lan_phone (uid135102@id-135102.brockwell.irccloud.com) Quit (Quit: Connection closed for inactivity)
<Laris_> assuming he has the good sense to say yes, that is ;)
<Dianthea> Oh, I'm so happy for them.
* Laris_ nods
<Laris_> They're very well matched. I hope it will be a happy union.
Eren tells Induriel he plans to leave
* Eren will call upon Induriel one morning.
* Induriel receives him graciously, as always
<Induriel> My Lord Eren, welcome.
* Eren looks oddly solemn for Eren, but smiles.
<Eren> Thank you, Lord Induriel. I was hoping you might have a moment to spare.
<Induriel> Of course, my lord. Please, have a seat.
* Induriel gestures and has Mifflepon bring suitable refreshments.
* Eren will take a seat.
<Induriel> What can I do for you?
* Eren seems a bit hesitant.
<Eren> I have been considering my role here of late.
<Induriel> In what way?
<Eren> A visitor, of course, and companion to your kin, but...we both know why I was sent.
<Induriel> In hopes of winning the regard of Heri Mamitu, you mean?
* Eren nods.
<Eren> I flatter myself to think I have some small manner of such, but not to the extent it was likely hoped.
<Induriel> I am sure she does think well of you... but you feel that you are, ah, not making as much progress in your suit as you would like?
* Eren nods.
<Eren> In truth, it was never likely we would be a good match, however much regard I have for her. Too different, I think.
* Induriel sighs
<Induriel> If you say so, my lord. Unfortunately these matters are never simple.
<Eren> But I have a fondness for her and her little queendom here, and I understand it may be facing difficulty in the near future. Well, nearer than not.
* Induriel smiles
<Induriel> Indeed. I am rather fond of her myself, of course.
<Induriel> Does this mean you would like to stay here, even if Heri Mamitu does not choose you as her consort in the near future?
<Induriel> Or indeed chooses another?
<Eren> In the long term, yes, I believe so. For now, I thought perhaps I might return to Aethrennar, to more personally advocate for greater assistance from my cousin the Queen, long may she reign.
<Induriel> Ah. This court would be the poorer for your absence, my lord. Are you certain that Heri Mamitu is not receptive to your suit?
<Induriel> Does she favour another?
<Eren> I have some skill in this arena, ambassador. I believe there are others she holds in higher personal affection, yes.
<Induriel> . o O (Well, I sure hope he's talking about Faire.)
<Eren> And I wish them well. As I said, I should like to return to the city.
<Induriel> Well, personal affection is not the only factor involved, of course. But... if you truly feel that your suit will not be successful...
<Eren> But that requires it remain here, and friendly to our people. The prospect of a risen Turath is...concerning.
<Eren> Try as you may, ambassador, I believe personal affection is likely to be the deciding factor for Heri Mamitu.
* Eren gives a small smile.
<Induriel> Well, my lord, perhaps. All else being equal.
<Induriel> In any case, if you truly wish to leave...
* Eren frowns.
<Eren> It is not so much that I *wish* to leave, rather that I believe it to be the best course of action at the moment.
<Induriel> Well, in the past Heri Mamitu has proven reluctant to call upon us for aid.
<Induriel> I have tried to change her position on that, or at least asked her to reconsider. And with recent developments, she may well be more receptive now.
<Eren> I plan to speak to her before I leave, of course.
<Eren> I think now is the time where we can and should offer more direct assistance.
* Induriel nods
<Induriel> And will you discuss these other matters with her, as well?
<Eren> Assistance, you mean?
<Induriel> No, that is something I can bring up with her in my formal capacity. I was thinking more of your suit, and your personal relationship.
<Eren> I will...make my case, but I am not sanguine about the outcome.
* Induriel sighs, and nods
<Induriel> If you're right, perhaps it is better to find out now.
* Eren nods.
<Induriel> And even if she does not choose you as a consort, I am sure she would be happy to have you as a friend and supporter.
<Eren> I can hope.
<Eren> If it helps, I believe she holds Faire in great esteem.
<Eren> Such a match would benefit them both.
* Induriel nods
<Induriel> They are both scholars. It isn't entirely surprising that they would get along well.
<Induriel> In any case, I'm sure she does hold your lordship in high esteem as well. Though perhaps in a different way.
<Induriel> Clearing the air over this issue may be the best thing.
* Eren nods.
<Eren> I agree.
<Induriel> As long as your lordship accepts the disappointment with your usual grace and kindness, I think it could even lead to your rising in her estimation.
* Eren smiles and gives a quiet laugh.
<Eren> We shall see. I just didn't want your lordship to be unaware of my intentions.
* Induriel nods
<Induriel> Thank you, my lord. I am grateful you have let me know.
<Induriel> Please do also let me know how it goes, and what I can do to help.
<Eren> You are a loyal and valued servant of the crown, Lord Antalanon.
* Eren will stand to go.
<Induriel> It is my pleasure and honour to serve, Lord Eren.
* Induriel also stands, and bows.
* Eren will return the bow, perhaps more formally than he has in the past.
Korivan performs a ritual with Malak and the apprentices
* Lan-werk rolls for Korivan: [ 7d6 ] getting [ 4 2 5 3 1 1 2 ] for a total of [ 18 ].
<Korivan> (14)
<YOAW_Narrator> (You get the sense that Bane holds the kid in a wary regard. Bane doesn't dispose of a dangerous weapon if it can be wielded in his service.)
<Korivan> (yeah that's better than I thought)
<Korivan> (now I might *have
* to keep him if I can :3)
<Korivan> (I do want to know more what I dealing with with him though)
* Malak is pretty much available for the ritual any time. He seems to be over some of his fear of the Hrieffen, but, between Gurluk and his own shyness, he's not exactly making a lot of friends.
<Korivan> (how does he get on with the apprentices? >.>)
<YOAW_Narrator> Halgalaz has been responsible for most of his care, but Faasha, despite herself, is warming to him. She understands what it means to be under a demon's control.
<Korivan> (Cool)
* Korivan will go and collect them, then
* Dianthea is now known as Halgalaz
* Faasha (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Halgalaz and Faasha will come along.
<Korivan> It is time.... to learn some answers @_@
<Halgalaz> To what?
<Korivan> To see... malak's path.
<Korivan> Where it... originates. Where it might lead.
* Faasha nods.
<YOAW_Narrator> (Is Malak with you already, then?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Like, for this bit?)
<Korivan> (sure)
* Korivan looks at him
* Malak seems concerned, but not afraid.
<Korivan> I will lead you.... but we will share what visions come @_@
<Korivan> If you wish the other to see as well... that is your choice.
* Malak looks at Korivan, then at the other two apprentices. After a moment, he nods.
* Halgalaz smiles at him.
* Faasha nods.
* Korivan nods
* Korivan will bring them into the ritual space in his tent then, or have it set up that way
<Korivan> (for smaller, more intimate rites :x)
<Korivan> (not rhat kidn of intimate though ;p)
<YOAW_Narrator> You can set up for the ritual, though it is one rarely used, usually for foundlings (heh, Mandalorian reference pt. 2) when they are inducted into the tribe. The Hrieffen know where they come from. :)
* Korivan will start y a minor rite that will bind our experience of the rite.... a bit of partaking of the same roots, a bit of of minor blod sharing/consumption, you know how it goes :V
<YOAW_Narrator> (Go ahead and make a rituals roll for me?)
<Korivan> (is this for all of it?)
<Korivan> ('cause f so I'll use the ancestor die)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yeah, I think it's a relatively simple ritual, at least in theory. I'm not sure it's one Korivan has actually performed before, though.)
<Korivan> (okay)
<Korivan> !roll 8d6
* Lan-werk rolls for Korivan: [ 8d6 ] getting [ 6 4 2 4 2 4 3 2 ] for a total of [ 27 ].
<Korivan> (21)
<YOAW_Narrator> From Korivan's perspective, the flames of his fire take on a redder hue, which slowly turns a sickly green, casting strange, flickering shadows on the tent walls. As he looks at Malak, the boy's features blur for a moment, then there is a goblin standing next to him, a woman bearing similar features. On the other side, a creature you've seen before, reminiscent of the beasts you just fought alongside the Ankai.
<YOAW_Narrator> Another goblin woman appears, her hand on the former's shoulder, as another demon, this one with a mien like a sickly vulture, stands on the other side. This continues for a time, matched pairs of demons and goblins, staring at Korivan.
* Korivan stares back
<Korivan> @_@
<Korivan> (but what does this mean for him, is really the more important question, because I did sort of suspect this :x)
<YOAW_Narrator> (More than anything, what you sense in him is potential. His blood is powerful, but, especially with the changeable nature of demons, it does not mean he is inherently evil or anything.)
<Korivan> (okay)
* Korivan will pull us back from the visions
<Korivan> ....Do you understand... what this means?
* Korivan will ask them
<Faasha> I...think so?
* Korivan looks to her to elaborate
<Halgalaz> His blood is very powerful.
<Faasha> But his future is his own.
* Korivan nods and looks to Malak
<Korivan> YOu belong now..... only to yourself @_@
<Korivan> I can make a place for you here.... but it will not be easy.
* Malak (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Halgalaz (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Faasha (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Malak (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Halgalaz (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Faasha (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
<Malak> What do you mean?
<Korivan> Would you liek to stay.... with the Hrieffen. TO be one of us.
* Malak seems to consider this. He looks at Halgalaz and Faasha for a moment, then back to Korivan.
<Malak> I think so. But I don't know if they want me to stay.
<Korivan> they will...adapt. YOu will... prove yourself.
<Korivan> YOu have great strength @_@
<Korivan> Even Bane... sees this @_@
* Malak frowns, but nods.
<Malak> I can do that.
<Malak> I...think I want to do that.
* Korivan smiles.
<Malak> What about Gurluk? They don't like him.
<Korivan> He is... part of your power. they may... challenge him but...
* Korivan shrugs
<Halgalaz> They'll come to understand.
* Korivan nods
<Korivan> There will be placde he cannot go. The ancestors.... cannot adapt as the living can @_@
* Malak nods.
<Korivan> But... it can be... managed
<Malak> So...I'll become Hrieffen?
<Korivan> yes.
<Malak> Okay.
<Korivan> Good. I will make... arrangements.
* Halgalaz gives Malak an encouraging nod.
* Faasha gives him a little more reticent one.
Eyllia returns Vana home
<YOAW_Narrator> The Emerald Drake can make the short trip over to Hearthspire. Vana will have to be moved carefully, and is likely taken to the keep first to recover further.
* NPC1 is now known as Eyricia
<Eyllia> (Xyrin came back with us?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Hmm, good question.)
<Eyllia> (Im ok leaving him back, this is just a short trip)
<YOAW_Narrator> (That works. He's fine at court. :) )
<Eyllia> (im sure he wasnt eager to come home either)
* Eyricia will come find Eyllia shortly after she arrives at the keep.
<Eyricia> Eyllia? They told me you'd just returned.
<Eyricia> Is everything all right? I understand you were in a battle and Vana was wounded...
<Eyllia> She was hurt bad
* Eyllia nods somberly
* Eyricia frowns.
<Eyricia> She's recovering, though?
<Eyllia> she's awake, so thats good, but it's going to take her a while before she recovers
* NPC2 (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Eyricia nods.
<Eyricia> She'll be well cared for here.
<Eyricia> Are you all right? You seem...troubled.
<Eyllia> It's my fault...running around, chasing battles, and it's not me that gets hurt
* Eyricia will place a hand on Eyllia's shoulder.
<Eyricia> This is the burden of leadership, Eyllia.
<Eyricia> Were the battles necessary?
<Eyllia> stopping demons, so yes?
<Eyricia> Then this is an unfortunate outcome, but one you must be prepared for. I'm sure you did all you could to keep those in your charge safe.
<Eyllia> It's magic I can't keep them safe from... I can fight the foe in front of me, but against that? I'm powerless.
<Eyricia> It can be a difficult storm to weather, yes.
<Eyricia> Perhaps I can find an earthchanter to accompany you?
<Eyricia> They are more versed in defensive magics.
<Eyllia> that sounds like a good idea.
<Eyllia> could they teach me how to protect myself better as well?
* Eyricia contemplates.
<Eyricia> Possibly. Our blood carries little aptitude for their kind of workings, but it's possible.
* Eyllia shrugs
<Eyllia> Any news here
<Eyllia> I havent been away long
<Eyllia> any more sightings?
* Eyricia frowns.
<Eyricia> Two more. We know more what to look for now, so they haven't succeeded in their attacks, overall, but it is an issue.
<Eyricia> We only have so much naval strength, and we rely on the sea for a lot.
<Eyllia> May said she would try and research and learn what she could, but she's been busy of late too.
<Eyricia> This is certainly an 'active' region.
<Eyllia> she likes her books. I could try and negotiate access to her library, if you knew of a scholar that could cipher through the tomes
<Eyricia> Hmm.
<Eyricia> I'll have to think on it.
* Eyllia nods
<Eyricia> Were you able to determine whether they might offer military assistance?
<Eyllia> I didnt think to ask.
* Eyllia looks embarassed
<Eyllia> I will
<Eyllia> With all the help I've given, I hope they would try
<Eyricia> I should hope so as well.
<Eyricia> Perhaps it's best you get some rest yourself.
<Eyllia> let me know if you find someone. Once Vana is settled, I don't plan to stay long.
* Eyricia nods.
<Eyricia> I'll get right on it. As soon as I sort out about twenty other things.
* Eyricia smiles.
<Eyricia> I'll see you at dinner?
<Eyllia> yeah
<Eyllia> I'll be in the practice yard for a bit.
* Eyricia nods.
* Eyricia looks like she might say more for a moment, but let's Eyllia go.
* Eyricia is now known as Vana
* Eyllia heads over to where Vana is recovering
<Eyllia> knock, knock... you up for a quick visit?
<Vana> I'm not really 'up' for anything right now, but I can be slightly less horizontal for a visit.
<Vana> Come on in.
* Eyllia smiles at the comment
<Eyllia> I got you home, just like I promised
<Eyllia> you'll be on the mend now, quick enough
* Vana smiles.
<Vana> I'm sure I will.
<Vana> When does the Drake sail?
<Eyllia> soon
<Eyllia> I'm at least going to stick around for diner
* Eyllia pulls up a bench and takes Vana's hand
<Eyllia> My mom is going to drop an earthcaster on my lap... my punishment for not keeping you safe
* Vana smiles at that, too.
<Vana> It's not a punishment to get help, Captain.
* Eyllia nods
<Vana> I've worked with a few before. They're...well, we have very different mindsets, given our specialties, but I find them to be, on the whole, a dependable lot.
<Eyllia> I just have to make sure they don't fall overboard
<Eyllia> I'll have you back once you're up and able
<Vana> And I'll be happy to be back.
* Vana smiles reassuringly.
<Vana> I'll be fine, I promise.
<Eyllia> anything I can bring back for you?
<Vana> I can't think of anything, but you're welcome to shower me with presents if you like.
* Eyllia chuckles
<Eyllia> I'll what I can find.
<Eyllia> I should go... lots of... you know... and diner with the family
* Vana nods.
<Eyllia> I'll do better, Vana. I won't let this happen again.
<Vana> I should continue to rest. Lots of rest to do.
<Vana> Captain...Eyllia, you didn't *let
* it happen this time.
<Vana> It just happened.
<Vana> It's all right.
* Eyllia stands and lets and her hand go
<Eyllia> I'll get there too... I just need more time
* Vana nods.
<Eyllia> be safe
<Vana> You too.
Solos
Dianthea lends Ulkash her body... and her husband!
<YOAW_Narrator> All right, so I was thinking this might be down in the crypts, but, honestly, Dianthea can pretty much work with Ulkash anywhere in the fort or wherever Laris is, so maybe just in quarters?
<Laris> whichever :) whatever she would prefer is fine, he'll take her opinion on this one.
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) Quit (Quit: webchat.esper.net)
* Dianthea (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
* Dianthea will set up in y'all's quarters at the fort. It's a relatively simple ritual, typical of Thantopolitan workings, with a little bloodletting and chanting. Somewhat less common, but by no means outrageous is the hallucinogens Dianthea will have to take for the joining.
* Laris is a bit wary of all this, but trusts that she knows what she's doing.
* Ulkash (webchat@199.38.187.252) has joined #gnomeland
<Ulkash> (was in wrong window)
* Ulkash will hover nearby, observing.
<Ulkash> This is much more complicated that what our shamans used to do.
<Dianthea> Yes, well, your shamans apparently didn't have much sense of self-preservation.
* Ulkash smirks.
* Laris smiles slightly at that, keeping an eye on what is going on.
<Dianthea> All right, I think I'm ready to begin.
* Laris nods
<Laris> I'll be right here if you need me. Take care.
* Dianthea will begin chanting in more formal Thantopolitan, her hands weaving a pattern through the air in front of her, leaving brief trails like smoke. She inhales deeply from the psychoactive incense lit in front of her. Almost mechanically, she lifts a sharp dagger to her palm and dribbles blood into a bowl.
<Dianthea> Partake of this offering, Ulkash of the Kai Do Arat, that we will be joined. My blood is yours, and your spirit mine, so long as night persists.
* Laris tries to breathe lightly so he doesn't get too second-hand wasted.
* Ulkash 'kneels' before Dianthea, dipping a finger into the bowl of blood. The blood contrasts her usual faded seeming, the ichor brilliantly scarlet on her finger as she raises it to her face. Ulkash makes marks with it on her forehead, below both eyes, and vertically on her lower lip. She then reaches down to raise the bowl to her lips and drink
* Ulkash s the rest.
<YOAW_Narrator> Almost immediately, Ulkash seems to dissipate, flowing into Dianthea alongside the smoke.
* Dianthea opens her eyes, a pale blue glow emanating from them. She smiles a quite un-Dianthea-like smile.
<Laris> Ah... I take it the ritual worked.
* Dianthea pitches forward suddenly, barely managing to catch herself.
<Dianthea> I would say so.
<Ulkash> Indeed, shaman. Well done.
* Ulkash 's voice is layered over Dianthea's as she speaks.
<Ulkash> I had forgotten how...immediate the physical world is.
<Laris> It does have a certain inevitable directness.
* Ulkash grins again, the look somewhat strange on Dianthea's face.
<Ulkash> Now, what should I do with my time?
<Laris> I was just going to ask, is there anything you especially want to do with your time here?
<Ulkash> There was food and drink, I recall?
* Laris nods
<Laris> Certainly.
<Laris> (idk if we thought ahead this far to have some things on hand, or I can call for a servant to bring things ;)
<YOAW_Narrator> I imagine Dianthea had some stuff ready. Probably things Ulkash said she had liked, lot of roast meat and the like.
* Laris gestures to the waiting foods, then.
* Ulkash will move that way and dig in heartily.
<Ulkash> I did not realize I would feel this...whole. Even if it is not my body, it feels natural to have one again.
<Laris> Dianthea indicated that this experience was often ... beneficial for those who have been without a body for a long time. To help... reconnect.
* Ulkash nods with a mouthful of food.
<Ulkash> I can see that. Some of the Kai...they could use this, I think.
<Ulkash> Or is it cruel to remind them what they no longer have?
<Laris> I don't know.
<Laris> What do you think?
<Ulkash> I will have to consider it. For now, I want to get the most out of this. You have weapons with your warriors, yes? I would like to hit something.
<Laris> Yes. That can be arranged.
<Laris> Ah... something living? Do you want to spar?
<Ulkash> Yes, I would like that very much.
* Laris can take her down to the courtyard and let her choose a weapon while he gets his swords.
* Ulkash will look over and evaluate some options and go with a standard spear.
* Ulkash swings it through a few flourishes, faux blocks, parries, and thrusts.
<Ulkash> This is well-made. Who made it?
<Laris> (do I know?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (I imagine you have an armorer back in NA or stationed here, so it was them or shipped from back home. You can placeholder name if you want it to be the former.)
<Laris> It was [name], our armorer.
<Ulkash> Armorer, right.
* Ulkash nods.
<Ulkash> Are you ready then, champion?
<Laris> I am.
* Laris takes up a ready stance.
* Laris tries to put aside his general reluctance to hit his wife with a sword
* Ulkash will shout and charge in, quicker than you think Dianthea can normally move, but not as fast as you've seen spirit Ulkash do so.
<YOAW_Narrator> (Want to roll me a Fighting Test? :) )
<Laris> (sure)
<Laris> (plus my 1 for short blades?)
<YOAW_Narrator> (Yeah)
<Laris> !roll 4d6
* Lan-werk rolls for Laris: [ 4d6 ] getting [ 1 4 5 3 ] for a total of [ 13 ].
<Laris> (12)
* Ulkash fights well, but Dianthea's body is clearly not up to the rigors of extended physical combat. After a little while, Ulkash has to draw back to catch her breath.
<Ulkash> That. Was. Good. Champion.
<Ulkash> Thank you.
<Laris> Yes. well done.
<Laris> thank you as well.
<Ulkash> Your shaman needs to do this more.
<Dianthea> Whoa, hey, I'm still here. Mostly...
* Laris smiles a little at that.
* Dianthea 's voice comes out without the overlay for a moment.
<Laris> Hopefully you aren't too sore tomorrow.
* Dianthea smirks a very Dianthea-like smirk.
<Ulkash> Oh, hmm, yes, that would be nice.
<Laris> what would?
<Ulkash> Fucking.
<Laris> oh.
* Ulkash practically leers at Laris.
<Dianthea> I doubt that's really a possibility right this moment, Ulkash...
<Laris> well not in the courtyard at least >.>
<Dianthea> [q] Do you want to...?
<Laris> [q] what do you think? I mean... it's your body. and also your husband. It's not... impossible, although it might take some time. But if you don't think it's suitable...?
* Laris is uncertain what the proper etiquette is for this situation
<Dianthea> [q] I had thought about it, and it seems...kind of...
* Dianthea blushes.
* Ulkash studiously says nothing for the moment.
<Laris> kind of?
<Dianthea> [q]...exciting?
* Laris smiles a bit more widely at that.
<Laris> I will do what I can.
<YOAW_Narrator> Your fairly certain the following grin comes from the both of them.
* Laris will give her a kiss there in the courtyard, because well... she *is
* his wife, so even if people might see them, it isn't anything too shocking.
* Ulkash smirks.
<Ulkash> Are you shy, champion?
<Laris> I'm... nervous.
* Laris admits.
<Laris> I don't want to disappoint you. It's a lot to live up to. So to speak.
<Ulkash> The dead do not know the pleasures of the living. I've not tasted another since the gods walked this plane. You've nothing to prove, though I admit to curiosity.
<Ulkash> Now, let us return to privacy quickly, or I will begin here. ;)
<Laris> Very well @_@
* Laris will get her back to their rooms as fast as possible so that we don't cause a total scene in the courtyard, then. People are probably already going to gossip ;)
Eren tells May is leaving
* Eren will try to find a private moment with May. Maybe in the library?
<May> (sure)
* Eren will knock politely.
* May will close the book she was reading and look up.
<May> Enter.
* Eren will do so.
<May> Lord Brecia, it's good to see you.
<May> (Brescia)
<Eren> And you, Heri Lalu. If you have a moment, there were matters I wished to discuss with you.
<May> Of course. Please...
* May gestures to a chair opposite her
* Eren will smile and take a seat.
<May> What can I do for you?
<Eren> First off: would you like to marry me? I'm clearly handsome, a skilled warrior, and come from great wealth and influence. Such a match would, of course, cement the ties between our two lands.
* May looks stunned for a moment and then laughs.
<May> Straight to it, then?
* Eren grins.
<May> I... haven't yet decided on that matter.
<Eren> Hmm. Less decisive that I would have thought.
<Eren> Or, shall we say, more diplomatic.
<May> I hope you understand, it's a big decision.
<May> With many... factors.
<Eren> Of course, even for a less long-lived race. No offense.
<Eren> I never dreamed you'd have said yes.
<May> None taken.
<Eren> But the effort must be made.
<May> Really? But you seem to think so highly of yourself?
* May says playfully
<Eren> Among my many talents is a reasonable skill at reading people, and I know I am not to your liking.
<Eren> Among marriage prospects, at least.
<Eren> However, I do want to offer my true and abiding friendship and support. I am intrigued by your dream for this land, and...I think I will only be happy here in the long term. I should like to aid you in ensuring there is a long term for your land and people.
* May smiles.
<May> Lord Brescia... I do like you. I think you're talented and shrewd, and I welcome you to stay here in any capacity you think fitting. I am glad of your support. You have connections and talents that could help this city immensely, and I stand by my friends.
* Eren returns the smile.
<Eren> I'm glad to hear that you recognize my greatness. ;)
<May> Well, it's hard not to when you remind me of it so often.
<Eren> It is my hope to use those talents and, specifically, connections, to aid Nesu Abamatu.
* Eren grins again.
<Eren> I know you have been reluctant to accept aid from Aethrennar for fear of becoming a mere vassal.
<Eren> I am, however, offering whatever assistance I can with no such designs.
<Eren> I plan to leave for the Veiled City soon, to garner what aid I can for your...our coming conflict.
<May> That is very generous of you. I admit, while our city has many fine warriors, craftsmen, and mages, we do sometimes lack in skilled politicians and negotiators, myself included. I appreciate your aid in that capacity.
<Eren> I am pleased to be able to assist you.
<Eren> Can I trust, then, that you'll accept offered aid?
<Eren> I do not want to threaten your sovereignty, but I understand the situation is delicate.
* May hesitates.
<May> I will do what is in the best interest of my city. If that means accepting aid, then I will.
<Eren> Perhaps you could offer some guidance? What sort of aid would you prefer?
<May> Aid that is freely given, and does not come with provisos and stipulations. Aethrennar has some of the finest masters of the magical arts in the known world. We would be foolish to turn down assistance in that area. Rituals can turn the tide of a battle as easily as steel.
* Eren nods.
<Eren> I will endeavor to bring you such aid.
<May> Thank you. And Lord Brescia... whatever happens between you and me... Nesu Abamatu does not forget its allies. You will always have a place here.
* Eren nods again.
<Eren> And you in Aethrennar. I pray you never need it.
<May> Thank you.
<May> Please, give your queen my thanks for all she has done for us so far. Whatever some people may think of my intentions, she is still an ally and a friend.
<Eren> I will relay that to her.
<Eren> I thank you for your hospitality, Siru Mamitu of House Lalu. I hope to enjoy it again soon.
<May> Stay safe. Don't go chasing too many drakes on the journey there.
<Eren> Alas, I believe time is of the essence, so I must refrain from such distractions, however tempting.
* Eren smiles.
