Ashnabis session 48
Summary
Session
Session date: February 28, 2021
Fair Cycle date:
Introduction
<AshnabisNarrator> The sun shines bright at your backs as the dawn light dapples across the Nimneha Bay. With the aftermath of the Abas Feast comes Fikho with its heavy rains. But it's been rainy enough the past couple of weeks and last year's droughts are long forgotten.
<AshnabisNarrator> With the new year come new people, and around the margins Kaskind is growing week by week, with new land cleared by faithful bubun and the town itself sprawling out into the Sestapor, far from its central Fort.
<AshnabisNarrator> So, too, has the new year brought new opportunities for your strange menagerie. It has yet to be made clear how Junan's arrangement with General Ghurtai will work out, but it's clear that your new role puts you closer to the center of power here in the colony. And with that new responsibility, surely new opportunities, but also new risks, as you are all too aware.
<AshnabisNarrator> There is peace with the hith, peace with Charadip, peace with the pirates, for now, at least, but it all feels too temporary, too transient. As ever, the promise of the Sestapor and its perils go hand in hand.
Utus asks Jimba for help in hiring another team for the Land Registry
<AshnabisGM> Jimba, you are getting ready to leave from work one afternoon when Utus beckons you into his office.
* Jimba nods and heads into the office.
<Jimba> Sir?
* Utus gestures for you to close the door and take a seat.
* Jimba does so, giving Utus a curious look.
<Utus> Sorry to delay your departure. I wanted to have a word with you.
* Utus seems a bit tired and harried, though that's not unusual.
<Utus> I understand the General made your group a counter-offer.
* Jimba looks a little uncomfortable about it.
<Jimba> Uh, yeah...
<Utus> What's the feeling among your team about it?
<Jimba> Honestly? I think we're all a little leery, but we also have some concerns about how things have been going, as we brought to you, and the General's offer seems our best way to have some influence on policy.
* Utus nods
<Utus> General Ghurtai brought it up when I came to her with my workers' concerns. She offered the role to me first, but I turned her down.
<Jimba> Can I ask why?
<Utus> The idea of being a spymaster doesn't... agree with my temperament. That's not what I came here for.
<Jimba> Speaking for myself, I'm inclined to agree.
<Jimba> I'm far too honest for a good merchant, but I try.
* Utus chuckles slightly at that.
<Jimba> How did the General take your response?
<Jimba> If I can ask.
<Utus> She was agreeable. I think she figured that it would have been convenient if I'd agreed, but not mandatory for her goals.
* Jimba nods.
<Utus> As a trade-off, she did agree to increase pay for the other team, and to hire more staff for surveying so that the workload is distributed more evenly.
<Jimba> That's good.
<Utus> To make that last part easier, she also provided boats. I pointed out that one of the reasons it's been hard to hire more teams is that we needed them to come with their own boat, and people who are competent to sail them.
<Utus> Well, now I have one other boat, and the promise of more to come, but I need to find a crew.
* Jimba chuckles a bit at that.
<Utus> That's where I was hoping you could come in. You must know other sailors, people who know their way around a ship and might be looking for work.
<Jimba> As it happens, I do.
* Jimba smiles.
<Utus> That's great.
<Jimba> How many were you looking for?
* Utus looks pleased.
<Utus> Well, for now, enough to form another team like yours - say five, six, seven people? If there are more than that who are qualified and interested, I might be able to secure another boat.
* Jimba nods.
<Utus> For that matter, maybe you could have a look over the ship and make sure it's seaworthy. It's far from brand new and I'm not an expert on these matters.
<Jimba> I can certainly help on both matters.
<Utus> That would be appreciated.
<Jimba> Happy to help.
<Utus> And... look. I understand your point, about wanting to be able to make a difference, affect policies, that kind of thing.
<Jimba> Everyone's got their own interests, I realize, but...
<Jimba> I feel like everyone sees Kaskind as a game only one group can win.
* Utus nods
<Jimba> But I think we're all better off sharing the spoils, as it were.
<Jimba> Maybe that's wishful thinking, but we all profit with peace.
<Utus> This wasn't really how I was expecting to wind up, when I came out here, but I think in this role I've had some ability to affect how the bigger picture looks.
<Utus> And I want you to know that, if it turns out it isn't for you - or anyone else in your group - there's still a position for you here, assuming you want it.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Thank you, sir.
<Jimba> I did want to say, the general's offer aside, I'm nothing but grateful for your hiring me.
<Jimba> It's been a good job and a great opportunity.
<Utus> I hope I've been able to give opportunities to people who will do good with them. People who might not otherwise have had that chance.
<Utus> And I'll continue doing that, at least as long as they don't stop me.
<Jimba> On that note, if I may...is that why you hired Daifan and Sulidein?
* Utus hesitates a moment, but nods.
<Jimba> Because they're both good at their jobs, and I think it's been good having them around.
<Utus> I'm glad to hear you feel that way.
<Jimba> Whatever people think of the corpseborn, they do a lot of essential work in the colony, and I think it's good they're represented here.
<Utus> I wanted to give them that chance... corpseborn often have skills that go unnoticed, and why should they be denied the chance to use them?
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> An eminently practical outlook.
<Utus> I ... just wanted to give others that chance, if I could.
* Utus looks a bit awkwardly down at the papers on his desk.
<Jimba> (It's not a good roll for me, but can I roll Sense Motive?)
<AshnabisGM> (sure)
<Jimba> (Because is he saying what it seems like he's saying? ;) )
<Jimba> !roll 1d20+4
* Daifan rolls for Jimba: [ 1d20+4 ] getting [ 10 ] which, after the modifier [ 4 ] totals [ 14 ].
<Jimba> !roll 1d20+4
* Utus is definitely not saying something, or possibly trying to work up to saying it.
<Jimba> I think they've both been really valuable assets, and, in the case of Daifan, a good friend.
* Utus smiles at that.
<Utus> That's good to know. I would hope the same for my child, if they were in such a situation.
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> I can ask Daifan if anyone in the community is looking for work. I think the more varied outlooks we can put on a team, the better.
<Jimba> Hopefully they'll all get along. :)
<Utus> Thank you.
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> Happy to help.
<Utus> Well, I won't keep you too much longer - you're probably looking forward to getting out of work. There'll be time tomorrow to look over the boat.
* Jimba nods and stands, assuming that's his cue to leave.
<Jimba> I look forward to it.
<Utus> And, well, I think we understand one another. Maybe we can't help everyone, but I can do a little bit for someone else who needs help, and that's good enough for me.
* Utus rises and gives you a fatherly pat on the shoulder.
<Utus> Have a good evening, Jimba.
<Jimba> You too, Utus.
Llillilli and Jimba make up
<Jimba> (How did you want to set up the scene, Hazel?)
<Llillilli> (she's just going to come back to the boat like, the next day)
<Jimba> (Okie doke)
* Jimba will be presumably doing boat things.
* Llillilli comes up the gangplank.
<Llillilli> I am back.
* Llillilli announces.
* Jimba looks up, a little surprised, still concerned, but happy.
<Jimba> Uh, hi.
<Jimba> I didn't expect to see you so soon.
<Jimba> I mean, I'm happy to.
* Jimba adds quickly.
<Jimba> I just wasn't expecting it.
* Llillilli shrugs.
<Jimba> ...How was Thelef?
<Llillilli> Fine.
<Jimba> That's good.
* Jimba is a bit awkward and still worried.
<Jimba> Were you coming for your stuff, or...?
<Jimba> I mean, I can go if you prefer.
<Llillilli> No.
<Llillilli> I'm staying.
<Jimba> Oh!
<Jimba> What, uh, what changed your mind?
<Llillilli> Thelef reminded me why I came here.
<Jimba> Oh?
<Llillilli> Yes.
<Llillilli> To look after you
* Jimba smiles at that and sighs.
<Jimba> Llillilli...I don't want you to do something you'll hate and end up resenting me for.
<Jimba> I can take care of myself, I promise.
<Llillilli> If something happened to you while I wasn't there, I wouldn't be able to live with that.
<Jimba> I don't want to be a burden.
<Llillilli> My mind is made up.
<Jimba> I get that.
<Jimba> But you can't...grr. I don't know how to put it. I came here so I could support myself. And you and Kat, if possible. But, like...you both act like I'm this child you have to take care of, and that's the opposite of what I want.
* Jimba sighs.
<Jimba> I'm not saying any of this right.
<Llillilli> You're my brother. We came into the world together. That's how it's meant to be.
<Jimba> I know.
<Jimba> It's just...I came into the world with a debt. And I'm trying to make good on it.
<Llillilli> A debt?
<Llillilli> Because of our mother?
<Jimba> Sort of?
<Jimba> She died, and dad stayed in Choradan, and I was just...this burden our aunt and uncle got saddled with.
<Jimba> And I learned the family business, and I did my best, but I feel like I can never really repay it.
<Jimba> I don't want to be someone else's problem.
<Llillilli> I make my own choices.
* Jimba sighs.
<Jimba> Right. Okay.
<Llillilli> THen it's settled.
<Llillilli> I will be below.
<Jimba> All right.
<Jimba> I *am* glad you're back.
<Jimba> I want to say that.
<Llillilli> Thank you.
* Jimba gives a hesitant smile.
* Llillilli smiles back, though it looks a little tired.
Katenzhi and Gefraz plan their future house
<AshnabisNarrator> Katenzhi, you have been busy with Bivizmi lately, finalizing matters with respect to the pale oracle. All is going well there - Sulazh is still interested in making an offer for the plot and most of your crop, that would allow you to grow and produce more of it, with Oignestros, in the future.
<AshnabisNarrator> Of course, the offer isn't as good as it would be if you sold it all. But three thousand horns is still pretty damn good, and you're both inclined to take it.
<AshnabisNarrator> That, plus whatever you get from the stuff you guys found on Sednidze, plus this new money would come from this deal that Junan is striking up, and you are starting to feel pretty damn proud of yourself.
<AshnabisNarrator> And with a new husband on the way soon enough, you are almost going to seem like a respectable woman. If they only knew the truth.
<Katenzhi> (Hah)
<AshnabisNarrator> Today, Gefraz has invited you out to a site on the outskirts of the town which he bought for the purpose of setting up a place for you there - and presumably for his girlfriend and daughter, when they arrive.
<AshnabisNarrator> The plot is out just to the east of the town. When you arrive, Gefraz is already there, and there are a couple of Hand priests as well, managing a number of bubun. They are clearing brush and levelling the earth - it's muddy work, but the dead don't complain.
* Gefraz is wearing a plain brown dashi and high boots, suitable for the weather. He's not doing any of the work himself but he looks good as a supervisor.
<Katenzhi> Well hello there
<Katenzhi> You look busy
<Gefraz> Looks can be deceiving. These fine Hand priests I hired from the temple at Zhumne are doing most of the work. And the Ancestors, of course.
<Gefraz> Mostly I just stand here and watch the dead move dirt.
* Katenzhi smiles.
<Katenzhi> Sounds like a good job to me.
<Gefraz> It's not pretty yet, but it's big enough for everyone. I want to make sure there's enough room so everyone can have the privacy they want.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> Good. That will make things easier for everyone.
<Katenzhi> I'm beginning to think this might really work out.
<Gefraz> So the main reason I wanted to get you out here is so we could talk about how we want to set up things. Architecturally, or that kind of thing. Like, what do you need here?
<Katenzhi> Oh, I guess I hadn't thought about that. All I really need is a hammock and a locker right now, so anything more than that is a step up.
* Gefraz laughs.
<Katenzhi> It'll be weird having a bed that doesn't sway, honestly.
<Gefraz> We can arrange a hammock for you. But there should probably also be a bed, for appearances.
* Katenzhi laughs
<Katenzhi> A storage area would be good. Jimba has his warehouse that I can use, but it would be good to have a place to keep any wares that need to be under lock and key.
* Gefraz nods.
<Gefraz> Sure, of course.
<Katenzhi> Other than that, just the basics, really. I'm pretty self-sufficient
* Gefraz pauses, as if unsure what to say next.
<Katenzhi> You ok?
<Gefraz> This is going to be your home, Katenzhi. Our home.
<Katenzhi> ...yeah. I suppose it is.
<Gefraz> I know this is all odd. I want you to have whatever you want.
<Gefraz> For you, for Bivizmi, and of course for Divrola and Ghesmin too.
<Katenzhi> I appreciate that.
<Katenzhi> Maybe we should consider adding a workshop for Biv, then. So she can do her work here.
* Gefraz nods.
<Gefraz> Should that be attached to the main house, or an outbuilding?
<Katenzhi> ...probably an outbuiilding. Um... just in case. I trust Bivizmi implicitly as an herbalist, but sometimes it's best to keep the stinky, exploding things away from where you sleep.
* Gefraz nods.
<Gefraz> Right, of course.
<Gefraz> And, uh, what about when she stays over?
<Katenzhi> Well... I guess we'll need some personal storage space for her things. And a... big enough bed.
<Katenzhi> You know... if I'm just making a wish list here...
<Gefraz> Yes?
<Katenzhi> An art studio would be nice. Somewhere I can paint and draw. I... don't really get much chance on the ship.
<Gefraz> Done, consider it done.
* Gefraz makes some notes.
<Katenzhi> Thank you.
<Gefraz> Please, don't thank me. This land and this house will belong to the Argolda, of course, but I want it to be your place. We have to make this work. It has to work.
<Katenzhi> It will.
* Gefraz says, with a hint of almost-desperation in his voice.
* Katenzhi puts a hand on his shoulder.
<Katenzhi> It will work.
<Katenzhi> You don't know how stubborn me and Biv can be.
<Katenzhi> We'll make it work.
* Gefraz laughs.
<Gefraz> I'm glad, for you. How does she feel about all this?
<Katenzhi> She's... good, I think. We finally got some business tuff settled that I think has been weighing on both of us.
<Gefraz> Business is all good?
<Katenzhi> Very good. Better than I'd hoped, honestly.
<Gefraz> Maybe you should be building this place, rather than my lineage.
<Katenzhi> Hah. Let's not count my chickens before they're hatched.
<Katenzhi> How's Divrola, by the way? Is she doing alright with all this?
<Gefraz> It's hard for us to communicate much. I am able to send her messages, but they're not really private since she doesn't read.
* Katenzhi nods.
<Katenzhi> When will she be coming out here?
<Gefraz> Well, we need to get married first! But not long after that, is my hope.
* Katenzhi nods again.
<Katenzhi> I want this to be good for her. She needs something good here. A life of her own.
<Katenzhi> Sometimes it's just so fucking hard to be who you want to be.
* Gefraz nods.
<Gefraz> This is the best we can do for her.
<Katenzhi> Let me know if there's anything I can do to make things easier for her and the little one.
<Gefraz> You've been so good in all of this. I can't think of anything else.
<Katenzhi> I've barely done anything. You're the one building us a house! Well... watching the dead build it.
* Katenzhi winks at him.
<Gefraz> It'll be a couple of months before this place starts to be livable. Nearly a year before it's really right. But worth it.
<Katenzhi> If you need help with furnishings, Jimba and I know most of the good traders in town. I know you have your own contacts too.
* Gefraz smiles.
<Gefraz> Well obviously not yet, but yes, for mobile things, I'll definitely rely on you to make good choices. I am not an expert on these things.
<Katenzhi> Just don't ask me to pick out drapes.
<Katenzhi> Divrola seems like she has an eye for that sort of thing. It would be good for her to be involved with it once she's here.
* Gefraz nods.
<Gefraz> Thank you, Katenzhi.
* Gefraz says earnestly.
* Katenzhi smiles.
<Katenzhi> Don't thank me either. We're in this together.
<Katenzhi> A ship only goes in the right direction when everyone does their part.
<Gefraz> Can I confess something to you?
<Katenzhi> Well, considering we're going to be married, I would hope so.
<Gefraz> I really hate ships.
* Katenzhi laughs
<Gefraz> I'm sick *all the time*.
<Gefraz> I think my family thinks it's hilarious that I'm marrying a sailor lady.
<Katenzhi> So you don't want to honeymoon out on the open ocean, then? ;)
<Gefraz> Definitely not.
<Katenzhi> Tell you what, I won't make you get on a ship if you don't make me cook. Neither of us wants that.
<Gefraz> Deal.
Veznara's parents and younger brother Sumurt arrive, with big news
<AshnabisNarrator> Veznara, things have been quiet both at work and at the temple of late. Bitsaar seems to be doing well enough with the money you gave him, and there has been no sign of any displeasure from either the Hand or the Voice.
<AshnabisNarrator> As for the business at the registry - well, so far nothing is different. So you'll enjoy that while it lasts.
<AshnabisNarrator> You are at home one evening, settled into a simple dinner of leeks and pork belly, with a garnish of fresh herbs from the Hand's temple garden, when you hear some noise outside, then voices in Ombesh.
<MaleVoice> Is this the place? I think this is the place.
<Veznara> (Do I recognize this voice? :D )
<AshnabisNarrator> (it's outside and it's hard to say)
<FemaleVoice> This place is dank. How can they stand the smell and the wet?
* Veznara gets up
<MaleVoice> This must be it though. That's what they said.
<Veznara> . o O (Could it be them?)
* Veznara goes to the door to see who is speaking.
<AshnabisNarrator> You open the door to see your father, Azrund Kezondo, your mother, his beloved wife Guzha Ishusangu, and your youngest sibling, your brother Sumurt.
* MaleVoice is now known as Azrund
* FemaleVoice is now known as Guzha
* Nary is now known as Sumurt
<Veznara> Father! Mother! Sumurt!
* Azrund is a short, dark-skinned man, still handsome though he is nearing 50, or so they tell you. His black hair is peppered with a little more gray since the last time you saw him.
* Veznara says happily.
* Azrund is dressed in what you can only describe as Full Imperial Dad, the sort of finery that he wears when attending court or some sort of important business meeting where he wants people to remember General Kezondo and his many accomplishments.
* Guzha is just as tall as her husband, younger and a little thinner with wavy dark hair. Her hair is done up in a style that you wager will last a day in the damp of the Sestapor, and she is wearing a grey and blue dress with ridiculously awkward giant sleeves.
* Sumurt is a lad of - he must be fourteen now, you guess, with just the hint of a beard below his chin. He is dressed perhaps the most sensibly of the three, in a simple green robe cinched at the waist with a leather belt with a silver buckle. His shoes are fine Taizian dress shoes, though.
<Veznara> I am pleased to see you!
<Azrund> Daughter! You're looking so well. It's so wonderful to see you at long last.
<Guzha> Veznara! There you are!
* Veznara says formally, but there is joy beneath her words.
* Guzha comes over to give you a hug and once over.
<Guzha> Have you lost weight? You look thin.
* Veznara returns the hug, and kisses her mother on the cheek.
* Veznara laughs
<Guzha> Of course it's so humid here, you probably sweat it all off.
<Veznara> Oh... I'm so happy you're all here!
<Guzha> Now, is this your chamber? Let me see - oh, it's quite small, isn't it? Do you have enough room here for us to sit?
<Azrund> It is small.
<Veznara> I'm sure we can manage. Let me get a few more chairs.
<Azrund> I hope my letter arrived in good time and in good condition.
<Veznara> Yes, Father. I'm sorry I didn't know exactly when you were arriving, or I would have come to greet you.
* Veznara smiles at them all.
* Azrund smiles.
<Azrund> Seems that the envoys do good work even out here in these uncivilized places. Suppose that's what they're for.
<Veznara> Oh, it's so *good* to see you all!
<Azrund> You as well, Veznara, you as well.
* Azrund takes a seat.
<Azrund> We just got in this evening. Just an hour or so ago, really.
* Veznara ushers them all in to her room
<Veznara> How was the trip?
<Azrund> We teleported, actually. Have you ever? Normally we wouldn't, but we had it arranged for us.
<Guzha> It was over in an instant - so convenient! But of course, quite costly.
<Veznara> And how are you all? How are my sisters?
<Azrund> We're well. Very well, in fact!
<Veznara> Oh?
<Guzha> Of, of course they all send their love. They wished they could come too.
<Azrund> We wish we could have told you the reason for our visit in the letter. But the details were still being worked out - well, they still are being worked out.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> I did wonder, of course.
* Azrund looks over to Guzha.
<Azrund> It's very exciting!
* Guzha nods, smiling.
<Guzha> Sumurt is to be wed ...
<Azrund> ... to Princess Ziftu!
<Veznara> :O
<Veznara> I... oh my goodness!
* Azrund looks over to Sumurt, smiling.
<Azrund> We're so proud of the boy.
* Sumurt gives an indifferent teenage shrug.
<Veznara> I'm stunned! Congratulations, Sumurt! But... when did this happen?
<Azrund> The Princess and her grandmother made a visit home some months ago, as I'm sure you know. At that time we thought - like everyone else - that our proposal had been rejected. Honestly, I knew our lineage had little chance, with so many esteemed names putting forth their most promising sons.
<Guzha> We travelled not out of any expectation of a match, but to be seen, and perhaps for some other match to come of it, in a year or two. After all, Sumurt is still young - my precious baby boy :3
* Azrund nods.
* Sumurt looks affronted at being described as a precious baby.
<Azrund> And Princess Galdai is a most exacting critic. Everyone has flaws - such is the nature of Creation, is it not? But she is - more than most. But again, you must know that.
<Azrund> So it was to our great surprise when we were approached by agents on behalf of His Imperial Highness himself, to suggest this union, just a short time before we wrote you.
* Veznara smiles ruefully.
<Guzha> It seems that your own connection with the Princess - well, both of them - was instrumental in securing this all, so we have you to thank, my dear :)
<Veznara> I... have indeed become better acquainted with Her Imperial Highness.
<Azrund> We hear that Princess Galdai is very pious.
<Guzha> Surely our family's virtue and respect for the ancestors were what raised us up above other candidates.
<Veznara> And Sumurt's personal virtues, I'm sure.
* Veznara winks at her brother.
* Sumurt rolls his eyes when your parents aren't looking.
* Azrund smiles.
<Azrund> We're sorry we couldn't say anything earlier, but no mode of communication could really be trusted. Even to send too direct a message by magic - well, when it comes to matters of imperial weddings, discretion is essential. And we're glad we did.
<Veznara> Oh, of course.
<Azrund> As far as anyone knows, we are here to see our dear daughter, check up on her, and hear how things are out here in the colonies. And of course we do wish to do that.
<Veznara> But... I'm still shocked. I had no idea this was happening.
<Veznara> And what *is* happening, exactly? When is the wedding itself?
<Azrund> This has been a matter of extreme discretion.
<Azrund> And I should be clear - it's not all settled yet. Certainly not formally announced.
<Azrund> But our purpose here is for Sumurt to meet with Ziftu in something more like privacy, where there will not be snooping eyes, and for us to be able to conclude an adequate negotiation with Galdai herself.
* Veznara nods
<Veznara> Of course.
<Azrund> As you can imagine, there will be some unhappy suitors back home, when they learn of this. Jealousies that we're happy to deal with - once the marriage is arranged.
<Veznara> Yes, I imagine so.
<Veznara> I suppose people will think that *I
* had something to do with this.
<Guzha> Yes, there were many other candidates who were turned away - some quite illustrious names. But our little Sumurt is going to outshine them all :3
* Sumurt glowers.
<Azrund> You absolutely did have something to do with this, daughter.
<Veznara> Not so little, Mother! Sumurt is practically a grown man now.
<Azrund> It wouldn't have happened without you.
<Azrund> Think of it ... This will be the first imperial wedding for our clan in nearly three hundred years!
<Veznara> I... ah... I suppose so.
<Azrund> We owe so much to you, daughter. We know you were unhappy to have come here. But it is clear that your pastoral relationship with the Princess made this all possible. And because the plan is for them to stay here in the Osnabi lands, what better situation than to have you here with your brother?
<Veznara> Oh!
<Veznara> ...so they'll be staying here, not returning home?
* Azrund nods.
<Azrund> Princess Galdai was very insistent on that point.
<Veznara> ...
<Veznara> Hmmm.
<Azrund> What's wrong?
<Guzha> I understand she is quite attached to her granddaughter and doesn't wish for her to depart back home. Of course, perhaps in time, they might return to court... I surely would love for that to happen one day.
* Guzha says a bit wistfully.
<Veznara> Oh... it's just that Lady Ziftu seemed to think that upon her marriage, she would return to Taizi.
<Veznara> I hope she doesn't think I was manipulating things...
<Azrund> Honestly, from time to time I wondered whether you were.
<Veznara> But then, I'm sure she's well aware that her grandmother makes up her own mind ..
<Guzha> Oh, surely she is well aware of her grandmother's wishes.
<Azrund> Princess Galdai is well-known for being headstrong and getting her own way.
<Veznara> Well, I know I did ask after Lady Ziftu's marriage prospects, but that was at her request!
<Veznara> I wasn't trying to arrange this.
<Azrund> It may have been in how you asked it, perhaps.
<Azrund> It doesn't matter, really.
<Azrund> What matters is that you built this relationship here, and now this is the result.
<Veznara> Well, you say things aren't finalized yet?
<Azrund> Well, no, not yet, but we were invited to come by the Emperor himself, who made these arrangements.
<Veznara> Ah. In that case, it looks good.
<Azrund> And they have agreed to waive the brideprice, knowing that we could not possibly meet any terms. We'll still put something in, of course.
* Guzha nods
<Guzha> We wouldn't have come without a strong likelihood of a match.
<Veznara> Well, I'm glad for Lady Ziftu. I know that she'll be getting a wonderful husband.
* Veznara turns to Sumurt.
* Sumurt grimaces back.
<Veznara> Oh, Sumurt, don't worry. Life here isn't that bad, really!
<Sumurt> It smells weird.
<Azrund> It does smell weird.
* Azrund acknowledges.
<Azrund> But I'm sure you get used to it.
<Veznara> Well, I'm sorry for the downsides. But I'm so happy to see you!
* Veznara can't suppress another smile.
<Sumurt> Yeah, it's good to see you too I guess.
<Sumurt> What's Princess Ziftu like? You know her, right?
<Veznara> A bit, yes. She's always seemed nice enough.
<Veznara> I think she's been a bit lonely here.
<Sumurt> It's pretty boring, then?
<Veznara> I... wouldn't say that, no. But of course she isn't able to socialize much, given her position and the lack of, ah, suitable companions.
<Guzha> Well, Sumurt will be good company for her, I'm sure :)
<Guzha> And now, with this union, our position will be so much better. Your other sisters will have better marriages than we could have dreamed.
* Veznara nods
<Azrund> We're so grateful.
<Veznara> I hope you'll be happy.
* Veznara says directly to Sumurt.
<Veznara> Lady Ziftu has always seemed kind, and she's pretty.
<Sumurt> Well... marrying a princess is good, I guess. Having to live in a swamp is bad. I guess if maybe we don't have to stay here forever, it'll be all right.
<Veznara> Well, I'll be here whenever you need me. It's so important, having family ...
* Veznara begins to tear up
* Sumurt rolls his eyes again at that.
<Veznara> Oh... well, I can't wait to show you all around. And show you off!
<Azrund> Look at our two treasures, Guzha... I'm so proud today.
* Guzha nods
<Guzha> Well, we are certainly looking forward to seeing all the ... sights. And to catching up with you, dear :) Then tomorrow we shall meet with Princess Galdai.
<Veznara> Ah. Well, we should talk about that... but first, I'm sure you'll want to get settled in.
<Veznara> This place does take some getting used to. The humidity, ah...
* Veznara steals a glance at her mother's doomed hairdo.
<Guzha> We shall just have to manage as best we can. Our luggage is in the entry hall.
<Veznara> Oh! Well, let's go get things arranged, then.
<Azrund> We couldn't bring any servants, but I'm sure you can borrow some bubun to take us to the inn.
<Veznara> Ah, of course. First, I should introduce you to Hand Dezmali - I'm sure she'll be happy to meet you all...
<Guzha> Oh, certainly!
* Veznara leads them to call upon Dezmali and make introductions, then, while arranging for their luggage to be delivered.
Llillilli and Thelef hold a naming ceremony for their offspring
<AshnabisNarrator> Lllillilli, things are still a little tense around the Menagerie, though thankfully not as bad as they could have been. It's not like it's the first time you and Jimba have been at odds, after all.
<AshnabisNarrator> But despite any lingering tension over the business with the registry, there are lots of reasons for joy in your life. Thelef has been a rock throughout it all, with the People, with the humans. Shulilae and Helithae have reminded you that the People themselves are complex, and sometimes more humane than the humans themselves.
<AshnabisNarrator> And your little ones, though neither of your own Kind, they too bring you great joy. These little entries into your life are the newest of all.
<AshnabisNarrator> Today, the ancient sellesu Laelaesi has come from Sulise to Kaskind at Thelef's request. You wonder whether anyone else knows they are coming, given the solars' recent political actions.
<AshnabisNarrator> The purpose is for the tail-naming ceremony for both Shulilae and Helithae's child, and your own little one. The children will bear these names until they become sese, years from now.
<AshnabisNarrator> So, too, Loeluth's spawn needs a name, for though it is not one of the People, it is of its own Kind, and thus a descendant of an ancient line of its own.
<AshnabisNarrator> So you and Thelef have gone across town to the hifishae that Shulilae and Helithae have crafted, for Laelaesi to help you bind these decisions to their bearers.
<AshnabisNarrator> It is a soft day, with rain having fallen earlier this morning, with still a hint of the morning fog lingering.
<AshnabisNarrator> The hifishae is looking very well. You have done your part, when you have had time, but unsurprisingly Shulilae, always a putterer, has taken the burden as their own, adding rocks and carved logs, small ferns carefully potted here and there.
* Shulilae shifts nervously from foot to foot, as they inspect the hifishae as if to ensure that their work passes muster. Of course, a hifishae is never finished. They are wearing a new belt, or at least an old belt refashioned, three bands of shells and lithus and semi-precious stones.
<Shulilae> Hello! Good morning!
<Llillilli> Hello! The hifishae looke wonderful.
* Helithae is, as always, more calm than their spouse. They are wearing a brown garment, almost like a dashi, but inlaid with swirls of beads in a complex pattern. They are watching their hifis swimming happily in the pool.
<Shulilae> Thank you! I would have liked to do more.
<Helithae> I put a few last touches on it last night - I thought these shells here would look nice against the wood.
<Shulilae> I always forget how much time caring for the child will take, and try to take on too much.
<Llillilli> They say it is never done. :)
<Shulilae> So they do. Like parenting itself.
<Thelef> Very true. I think this will serve well, for our children and others yet to come, I hope :)
* Llillilli wanders over to the pool to watch.
<Shulilae> Thank you, honored elder.
<AshnabisNarrator> As you watch, you spy Laelaesi striding down the Colony Road towards you.
<Llillilli> They're here...
* Laelaesi seems more tired than usual, but their red and blue crests still stand proudly on either side of their neck. They are wearing a cape of woven brown and green reeds, with their copper solar's disc at their throat.
<Laelaesi> Hello, children. It is good to see you all.
* Thelef greets the solar warmly.
<Llillilli> Good morning, honored elder :)
<Laelaesi> It is a joyous day. My eyes rejoice.
<Thelef> How are things in Sulise?
* Laelaesi considers that question.
<Laelaesi> Things at the palace have been tense, and the burden of authority falls heavily on Whuthe, more than at any other point in their reign.
<Laelaesi> They have always been joyful, even in trials, even in war. Every king has enemies and detractors. But this is different. They see their own Suns turned against them.
<Llillilli> Mm.
<Llillilli> And how are you finding it?
<Laelaesi> It is difficult. I am caught in a net.
<Laelaesi> The king knows I am here. They ask me to send their blessing and all their joys, but they feel they could not come, at such a perilous time.
<Laelaesi> Although I am permitted to do as I choose, and no one dare stop me, it would be unwelcome to some of the solars to know that I am here.
<Thelef> I'm sure they wished they could be here. We understand the difficulties involved.
<Llillilli> Do they know about Lloeluth's child?
<Laelaesi> They have heard it told. Frankly, it is being treated by some as a myth.
<Llillilli> I expected as much.
* Llillilli shrugs.
<Laelaesi> Whuthe is worried that this news, and the news that you would care for it, would create more problems.
<Laelaesi> They hope to shield the People from strife by taking it upon Their own majesty. But in the end, Whuthe is merely one body, not meant to take on so much.
<Llillilli> Mm.
<Laelaesi> I ... value their prudence, but I am coming to believe that their strategy is not the right one.
<Thelef> I worry that they must be increasingly isolated - without counsel and support from those they have often depended on in the past.
* Thelef says, probably mostly meaning himself but not just himself
<Laelaesi> It is so.
<Laelaesi> You know, Llillilli, there are those - perhaps not the loudest, but not so few - who speak your name, in quiet places, around the kingdom.
<Llillilli> How so?
<Laelaesi> As a selleluf, and as a huwhi who has done much for the Kingdom. As a sign of hope.
<Laelaesi> It is not my place to tell you what to do, but - if you were to exercise your power, there would be those who would see the selleluf as a beacon.
<Llillilli> WHat power is that?
<Llillilli> I don't understand.
<Laelaesi> As a symbol. As a ... well, more than a figurehead, but as a living embodiment of the aspirations of all Sulise.
<Laelaesi> I think - perhaps the People need you.
<Llillilli> That is what Loeluth said...
* Llillilli frowns.
<Llillilli> BUt I don't know what I'm supposed to *do*.
<Laelaesi> Really? Hmm. Well, I do not claim to have Loeluth's wisdom. They are impossibly old, and I am merely ancient.
<Laelaesi> What do you want to do?
<Llillilli> I just want the solars to stop hating us,
<Laelaesi> That is what you want them to do.
<Llillilli> I don't understand why they are so... afraid.
<Laelaesi> They are afraid because they see change and they are afraid of what it means for their authority, their esteem.
<Llillilli> THey should have more confidence in their own worth then
<Laelaesi> Perhaps they should.
<Laelaesi> Perhaps they are not the only ones.
<Llillilli> As for what I want to *do*... I only wanted to live my life. To belong somewhere.
<Laelaesi> Belonging is not without a cost.
<Llillilli> What does that mean?
<Laelaesi> Among the humans, one gains a family at one's birth. But among the People, yes, we have kin of course, but belonging is always earned, every day, through our actions.
<Llillilli> Oh, yes. That makes sense.
<Laelaesi> You want to belong, yes, that is good. And others who already belong seek to exclude you, that is bad.
<Laelaesi> But simply wishing that they will change their minds will never accomplish that goal.
<Llillilli> I know my worth. I don't know how to... leverage it.
* Laelaesi nods.
<Llillilli> I can show them the child of Loeluth. I can be spared by them. I can be touched by the sun itself and still they will only call me a hairspawn.
<Laelaesi> They called you hairspawn before. That they called you that to your face afterwards merely shows that you are affecting them.
<Laelaesi> It shows their fear, not your weakness.
<Llillilli> I don't want to take anything from them.
<Laelaesi> You do.
<Laelaesi> You want to take their fear.
* Llillilli snort-laughs.
<Llillilli> I guess.
<Laelaesi> But some of them cling to that fear, for the comfort it gives.
<Laelaesi> If you were to claim your power - really claim it - Whuthe would support you.
<Laelaesi> I believe they would.
<Llillilli> 'Claim my power.' 'Use my power', I don't know what that means!
* Llillilli 's frustration breaks through a little.
* Thelef puts a comforting hand on your back.
<Laelaesi> I don't know all the answers. But I will say again: you are a sunbeam, a beacon, a sign of what may be. But only if you allow yourself to be.
<Thelef> I think .... we can think about what it means, but maybe now it would be best to do what we came here to do?
* Thelef says thoughtfully
<Laelaesi> Yes, that is a good idea. We have three names to bestow.
<Laelaesi> Do you have any questions about this pfullaes?
* Llillilli shakes her head
<Laelaesi> Then let us begin.
* Laelaesi steps into the pool and lifts up the first hifis, then turns to the parents, Shulilae and Helithae.
<Laelaesi> Give this child its tail-name.
<Helithae> Saesilli.
* Laelaesi considers for a moment.
<Laelaesi> Saesilli. A bold name, 'strife-song'. These are indeed times of strife. Let us aspire that your life shall be more peaceful than your song, and that discordant times give rise to new harmonies.
<Laelaesi> Brave Saesilli, may your tail be strong against the tide and your eyes alert to many dangers.
* Laelaesi puts Saesilli back in the pool, then turns to the second hifis, and draws it up into their arms.
<Laelaesi> Give this child its tail-name.
<Llillilli> Heliae.
* Laelaesi considers this for what seems like an eternity, but must really be only several seconds.
<Laelaesi> Heliae ... that is a good name. A name that in the Elder Speech means 'from clouds'. It evokes earlier times, simpler times, in a language now that passes few tongues. Heliae, you are a bird with unhatched parents, come from the clouds to a new nest.
* Helithae looks pleased at the choice.
<Laelaesi> Spirited Heliae, may your tail be strong against the tide and your eyes alert to many dangers.
* Llillilli smiles at them.
<Laelaesi> And now, this is a very special naming, one beyond the right of any one to give. And yet, every thing that has a Kind must have a name, and although I am unworthy, I will do my duty.
* Laelaesi puts down little Heliae and picks up Loeluth's child.
<Laelaesi> Give this child its name.
<Llillilli> Llifesi.
* Laelaesi reflects on that choice.
<Laelaesi> Llifesi ... born of lost lands, again, aptly chosen, brought from a place forgotten to all but its mother. I wonder if they will remember that place, when they are grown. Llifesi, I bid you remember your darkling nest, and the love that brings you here.
<Laelaesi> Bear this name with joy across many dawns and dusks.
* Thelef wipes away a few proud tears.
<Laelaesi> Let us all who are here assembled rejoice at the naming of new lives here at this hallowed place.
* Helithae will get in the pool with the babies to celebrate with them.
* Llillilli can climb in as well if that's acceptable :3
<AshnabisGM> (sure!)
Daifan catches Balinteze up on recent developments
<AshnabisGM> Daifan, you're meeting Balinteze for a dinner date. They asked you to meet them at their room, and said they'd provide the meal, if you wanted to bring something to drink.
* Daifan will aquire some good wine, one way or another
* Balinteze meets you at their quarters with a big bowl of spicy stewed goat over rice.
<Balinteze> I hope this is good - someone gave Kikhash an entire goat for helping him with a problem and so now we're all eating goat for the next week.
<Daifan> oooh, looks good!
* Daifan grins
<Daifan> I'm happy to partake in your misfortune ;)
* Balinteze smiles and will get settled in for both of us to eat.
<Balinteze> So, how have things been?
<Daifan> oof.
<Daifan> well
<Daifan> there has been a lot and not a lot happening all at once, you know?
* Balinteze nods
<Balinteze> I know that feeling all too well.
<Daifan> I thought so
<Daifan> I do have a lot of news, but it is just nice to have some tie to spend
<Daifan> ith you :)
* Balinteze grins.
<Balinteze> Well, I do like to hear your news, but we can wait until afterwards, if you want :)
<Daifan> mmm, yes, I think so
<Daifan> SOme of it is just interesting, but some if it is pretty heavy
* Balinteze nods
<Balinteze> let's let it wait, then.
<Daifan> that sounds good :)
<AshnabisGM> (we can fast forward a ways, then :)
<Daifan> (yes ;)
* Daifan will make them relate the goat acquisition story over dinner instead ;)
* Daifan snuggles up after dinner, though
<Daifan> So, which news shoudl I start with
<Balinteze> Well, I heard a rumour you have a new job. Or, a new role within your current job, if you prefer. Maybe with that?
<Daifan> mmhmm. Probably everything you have heard is correct ;)
<Balinteze> Kikhash was one of the people who put in a good word for Junan - your boy there's impressed some people, it seems.
<Balinteze> How do you feel about it?
<Daifan> we all got tired of being asked to do all these tihngs for the fort under the guise of what we were supposed to be doing.
* Daifan smiles
* Balinteze nods
<Balinteze> That's understandable.
<Daifan> so at least it can be a little more direct, and clear
<Daifan> I think it will be interesting
<Daifan> does this make us rivals though? Since you are wirking for a foreign state ;)
* Balinteze chuckles.
<Balinteze> We can pretend it does, if you want.
<Daifan> maybe sometimes, just for spice ;)
<Daifan> oh no, you are too sexy now I must tell you all my terrible secrets and plans ;)
* Balinteze smiles and gives you a kiss.
* Daifan kisses back, and then smirks
<Daifan> ...is what you will be saying, clearly ;)
<Balinteze> hah
<Balinteze> maybe we can take turns ;p
<Daifan> that might be best
<Balinteze> But this seems like a promising opportunity for you. Of course it has its advantages and disadvantages, like anything.
<Daifan> But I am grateful to have you, going into this. It makes me feel ike I can do this, that is not so starange a thing for someonw ike me, and like I can do good and usefu things.
<Balinteze> I think it puts you in a position where you might be able to help resolve some of these problems that involve, hm, shitty people who aren't really breaking a law, or at least not in a way that can be proved.
<Daifan> yes.
<Daifan> I know there will be parts that are more compromisng
<Daifan> but we have some control
<Daifan> so, on the whole, I thik that for me it will be good
* Balinteze nods
<Balinteze> Honestly some of them are problems I would have solved personally if it wouldn't mean a good change of irreparably blowing my cover here and causing a lot more problems in the long run. Maybe you'll have a better shot.
<Daifan> its just a different kind of shitty job for the hedal
* Daifan nods
<Balinteze> But some targets you only get a single shot at - so you'd better make sure it counts.
<Daifan> Mmhmm.
<Daifan> I will keep that in mind
<Daifan> though.... If it comes to taking *shots*, I'm probably not the right person
<Daifan> unles you mean more metaporically
* Balinteze gives a shrug.
<Balinteze> Either way...
<Balinteze> But what was your other news?
<Daifan> mmm. Well.
* Daifan sits up.
<Daifan> Its Galdai
* Balinteze frowns, listening.
<Daifan> we did a spell, to find out what she wants with the baby
<Daifan> its.... crazy
<Balinteze> Crazy how?
<Daifan> she wants to put her soul in it when she dies, so that she can just keep living and become more powerful
<Balinteze> that's pretty crazy.
<Daifan> eyah.
<Daifan> she's put so much work into it, though
<Balinteze> what would happen to the baby? its.. soul just disappears or something?
<Daifan> I don't know
<Daifan> what happens to our souls?
* Daifan shrugs
<Balinteze> Souls are overrated anyway...
<Daifan> apparenlty not to her :p
<Daifan> Theres a lot I don't undersand, but... we will stop her.
<Daifan> I hate everyting about how she has used our people, and no child deserves that
* Balinteze nods
<Balinteze> It's such an elaborate plan. I guess that's why she probably came all the way here to do it - at home, there'd be a lot more chance of being noticed, interrupted, whatever.
<Daifan> mmhmm
<Balinteze> Speaking of coming all the way here... I heard that the noble Kezondo family - your friend Veznara's parents - arrived in town with their son.
<Daifan> I keep wondering - how far back does this plan go?
<Daifan> oh?
* Balinteze nods
<Balinteze> Of course they'll also have to pay their respects to Galdai - assuming she'll see them.
* Daifan makes a face
<Daifan> lucky them :p
<Balinteze> Well... maybe, yeah.
<Daifan> hmm?
<Balinteze> Well, the son is around her granddaughter's age. I can't help thinking, why drag the boy all this way unless they had a goal in mind? Maybe it's nothing - maybe they just want him to see the world, broaden his horizons, whatever.
<Daifan> hmm
<Daifan> I can ask Wolf to keep an ear out
<Daifan> I doubt Veznara will tell me
<Balinteze> heh
<Daifan> she always seems resentful whenever I tell her anything
<Daifan> like she wishes she didn't have to know, so she didn't have to care :p
<Balinteze> :/
<Balinteze> Well - what matters most is what she does. She doesn't have to enjoy it, or have the same reasons for caring, so long as we arrive at the same goal.
<Daifan> its her loss ;)
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> I supose I haven't told her about this yet either. We had a big trip and tak was a lot in its own way
<Daifan> more of Junan taking a moment to shine for his senator friend this time
* Balinteze nods
* Daifan will tell them about the trip and the treasure and the giant turtle (and Yeggun)
* Balinteze is entertained by your retelling
Solos
* Daifan will come by the boat in the next day or so
<Daifan> hello?
<Daifan> Jimba are you there?
* Daifan will call out
* Jimba will pop out of the cabin.
<Jimba> Hey Daifan.
* Daifan waves from the dock
<Daifan> Can I borrow you for a little
<Jimba> Come on up.
<Jimba> Oh, sure.
* Jimba will come down to them, then.
<Jimba> What'd you need?
<Daifan> There is a new street food vendor that I really want to try, but they won't sell me any of their best snacks ;)
<Jimba> Ah. Well, that's terrible, and I'm happy to help.
<Daifan> excellent! I considered busting out Zola, but I'm hungry *now*
* Jimba chuckles.
<Jimba> This is good. I wanted to talk to you about something at the registry.
<Daifan> oh?
<Jimba> Utus asked me to help him find new hires, and I mentioned I thought it was good we had you and Sulidein around, and Utus and I agreed we should see if anyone else in your community might be looking for work.
<Daifan> oh! Excellent. There always are. I can put out word.
<Jimba> Great!
<Daifan> It really has been a good opportuniy - I'm glad I took a chance on it, even if I didnt knwo hat I was doing to start and nearly died -_-
<Daifan> Moss and I can make sure anyone else is better prepared :p
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> That's the hope.
* Daifan will lea onwards towards the market area where most of the food vendors are, but not in a big rush
<Daifan> How are you feeling about all of that?
<Jimba> About which? There's a lot going on there.
<Daifan> mmhmmm
<Daifan> lets start with... your sister? I talked to her and she said she was going to come back.
<Daifan> she had already decided already, though
<Jimba> Yeah, she's back.
* Daifan says, to absolve themself of any responsibility there ;)
<Jimba> Which is...good.
<Daifan> is it?
* Jimba sighs.
<Jimba> I don't know.
<Jimba> I'm happy she's back, for me, but I don't want her to resent me.
<Jimba> I want her to be happy.
<Daifan> That's not her way, I don't think.
<Daifan> To resent you
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> I worry this job we've taken is going to eat at her.
<Jimba> Honestly, I *know* it is.
<Jimba> But I think it's worth trying, for the rest of us, at least.
<Daifan> She said so. But I think that being apart from you would be the same.
<Daifan> and I think her directness will be useful
* Jimba nods again.
<Jimba> I really do think hers is a voice more people need to hear.
* Jimba chuckles.
<Jimba> She won't like it, and they won't either, most likely, but I think it's constructive.
<Daifan> I agree.
<Daifan> She won't like it if we try and shiield her or keep things from her
<Daifan> but I think we can still be....careful, what we ask of her
<Jimba> Yeah.
<Jimba> I mean, I don't want to keep things from her. I don't usually.
* Daifan nods
* Daifan smiles impishly
<Daifan> I have so many secrets Jimba ;)
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> Hence the mysterious allure.
<Daifan> exactly ^-^
<Daifan> so obviously I had to take this job.
* Daifan says, eyes sparkling
* Jimba laughs.
<Daifan> still - I am she is coming back, andyou have made up?
<Daifan> But I'd never seen you fight like that, so I was worried.
* Jimba frowns.
<Jimba> I'm not sure we have?
<Daifan> no?
<Jimba> I mean, when we were younger, we fought plenty, like siblings do.
<Jimba> But this was...more substantive?
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> yes, that was what I thought, too
<Jimba> Like a fundamental moral disagreement.
<Jimba> My sister has many fine qualities and skills. Compromise is not one of them.
<Daifan> she sees things very clearly, and does not like confusion.
<Daifan> But things are rarely just one way
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Yeah, that's the problem.
<Jimba> I appreciate her certainty. I've just never had it.
* Jimba chuckles a bit at that.
<Daifan> I find that it s possible to be certain, and recognize that things are complex, all at the same time. But that has always been my life.
<Daifan> even among my own kind
<Jimba> Oh?
<Daifan> I am always moving between different worlds
<Jimba> I still know so little about the community I missed out on.
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> Nothing is perfect, but for me - it is better.
<Daifan> If I'd been born Hedal, I would never have made it this far
<Jimba> How do you mean?
* Daifan looks at him and considers
<Daifan> I thik you might be able to understand this.... maybe even better than Junan. Did you know - I'm not a girl?
<Jimba> Hmm? How do you mean?
<Daifan> I mean just that. I'm not a girl, I'm not a boy.
<Daifan> This is the easiest way for me to move through your world. It's like... wearing a hat that I have shaped to fit me.
<Daifan> comfortable, but not for every occasion
<Jimba> Huh.
<Jimba> That's...kind of how I feel most of the time.
* Daifan looks sad
<Jimba> Like...sort of fluid as a person.
<Jimba> Or, like I don't fit anywhere.
<Daifan> If you were raised budal, you would be allowed to be that way
<Jimba> I mean, I manage just fine.
<Daifan> I would not have managed.
<Jimba> Oh, sorry, no. I'm comfortable enough as a boy, but, like...I'm not really Ombesh, I'm not really Aummesh, I'm not huwhi...
<Daifan> but even even still, there are people who say I spend too mcuh time with hedal
* Daifan nods
<Jimba> Well, we certainly like having you around. :)
* Daifan smiles
<Jimba> But I understand the obligation to your people.
<Daifan> I do appreciate how welcoming you have all been
<Jimba> Well, from what I understand, it's less strict out here.
<Jimba> The separation.
<Daifan> mmmm.... in some ways.
<Jimba> And, just, given our circumstances, I don't understand it in the first place.
* Daifan nods
<Daifan> Daligash is very relaxed, but it is different here
<Jimba> What was Daligash like?
<Jimba> All I've ever known is Ashnabis, even if I'm new to Kaskind.
<Daifan> I thik there are things you would like there. Success is valued, over history
<Jimba> That sounds good.
<Daifan> It is more open to new ideas
<Daifan> bt you kow, when you astart out near the top, it is easier to stay there
<Jimba> Like anywhere, really.
<Daifan> But for my poeple - there is a lot more mixing
<Daifan> It woudl be easier to pass there than most placed, other than here, maybe
<Jimba> Is that why you're more comfortable with folks like us? You said you get some criticism for spending so much time with non-corpseborn.
<Jimba> Can I say hedal? I don't want to presume.
* Daifan considers
<Daifan> well, some people say it is badluck for hedal to use sardesh, but I can keep you safe ;)
* Daifan says, making the fortune sign
* Jimba laughs.
<Jimba> I don't want to tempt fate.
<Daifan> I dno't thikn you have too much to worry about
<Daifan> But you have definitely helped me be more comfortable
<Daifan> I wasn't sure what to expect at the registry when I started
<Daifan> But uh... oh I have 'worked' plenty wth hedal before I came here
* Daifan smirks
* Jimba raises an eyebrow curiously.
<Daifan> but it was a very different kind of arrangement
<Jimba> What did you do before you came here?
* Daifan laughs
<Daifan> oh you want allll my secrets now?
<Daifan> I was a prostitute, for a few years
<Jimba> How was that?
<Jimba> Certainly different that the registry, I would think.
* Daifan laughs agan
* Jimba chuckles.
<Daifan> Oh yes, very, but I learned a lot about people.
<Daifan> well, some kinds of them, anyway.
<Jimba> You *are
* good with people.
<Daifan> I like them, mostly.
<Jimba> Same, really.
<Jimba> I can get along with most anyone.
<Daifan> yes, I appreciate that.
<Daifan> Is it because you feel you have to? Or do you really just like them?
* Jimba seems to genuinely ponder that.
<Jimba> A bit of both, I guess?
* Daifan nods
<Jimba> I do genuinely tend to like most people.
<Daifan> I can defintely understand that ;)
<Jimba> But I also feel like...I don't. It's easier to just try to get along.
<Jimba> (I don't *know*, rather(
<Jimba> (Very different sentiment. :P )
* Jimba shrugs.
<Daifan> people are complicated. We have such weird personal reasons for the things we do
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> Maybe it comes from what I was saying about not feeling like I have a place, but I tend to take people as individuals. Everyone has so much going on inside them.
<Daifan> mmhmm.
<Jimba> People are people. I'm not going to dislike someone because of where they're from or who their family is or whatever.
<Jimba> Now, someone like Yeggun, though...him I hate.
<Jimba> But's that's because of what he's done.
<Daifan> People form any background can be terrible or not
* Jimba nods.
<Daifan> Or Galdai
* Daifan spits and makes the misfortune sign
<Jimba> Yeah.
<Jimba> I don't really understand people like that.
<Jimba> Which is probably a good thing.
<Daifan> I think so
<Daifan> You know - you *can* belong in more than one place?
<Jimba> :/
<Jimba> I suppose that's true...
<Daifan> That is what I have found. You don't have to be just one person, or even the same person for everyone. I don't think I could. I am always myself but... what does that look like, when I am talking to a friend, or sitting in a meeting wth strangers?
<Jimba> Hmm.
* Jimba ponders that.
<Daifan> its is okay for that fluidity to be part of who you are.
* Daifan smiles
<Daifan> You and your sister are so very different.
<Daifan> it's useful to have some balance, hmm?
* Jimba smiles.
<Jimba> I like to think we complement each other well.
<Daifan> like the sun and moon :)
<Jimba> Thanks, Daifan. Now I'm going to be pondering which is which all day.
* Jimba laughs.
<Daifan> Oh she is defintely the sun
<Daifan> we all saw it at her ceremony ;)
<Daifan> But I think the moon suits you.
<Jimba> Oh, now I get to be all dark and mysterious.
<Daifan> see? and changeable ;)
<Jimba> And present many faces over time...dammit, yeah, that works.
* Jimba smiles.
<Daifan> with power over the tides
<Daifan> ;)
* Jimba sighs theatrically.
<Jimba> Don't I wish.
<Daifan> well, not literally, but that's what this new job is about, isn't it?
* Jimba nods.
<Jimba> That's certainly the hope.
<Jimba> Junan seems to have the general's ear, and he'll listen to us, so...
* Daifan laughs
<Jimba> I'm hoping we can nudge the rudder a little.
<Daifan> It is so funny to me that she came to Junan
<Daifan> all he wants to do is lie around in bed all day with some nice wine ;)
<Daifan> he will be happy to be nudged, after he runs everything though that envoys mind. He can be clever, he just done's like to ;)
* Jimba chuckles.
<Daifan> this will be fine
<Jimba> All the better for us, though. We can help do the thinking for him.
<Daifan> yes.
* Daifan says fondly
* Jimba smiles.
